Topical Flea Treatment For Cats

 

Flea collars are made to be more effective in eliminating flea or tick infestations. Some fur parents find this product reliable, but will it incur the same effects on your beloved cat? Before you decide to purchase a collar for your pet, think about several factors. 

Understand that flea collars work and kill fleas by releasing specific ingredients. These ingredients are chemicals called imidacloprid and flumethrin that can work for your cat. However, these substances are harmful or toxic to humans, especially children.

For this reason, experts do not recommend using flea collars for households with children. So why not consider using topical flea medications? There are safer for your family since your children will not be exposed to toxic ingredients once the medications have dried or been absorbed by the skin. 

Read the labels and instructions first before using them. You should also consult your vet about which type of topical treatment is best for your feline.

Consult your veterinarian Tampa, FL about the best way to eliminate fleas from your pet and for protection from future infestations. Read more for additional information.

What Happens If Your Guinea Pig Suffers From Heatstroke

 

Understand that despite being used to living in the outdoors or the wild, Guinea pigs are animals that fail to adjust their body conditions to the sudden changes in their environment. What does it mean? When the temperature of their surroundings suddenly increases, these species cannot take such changes, leading to them suffering from various medical issues.

For one, some days can become too hot for your pig. In this case, your pet may suffer from heatstroke, dehydration, and low blood sugar. Your pet mays also become non-responsive and may have seizures. If you are unsure what to do with your pet when he unexpectedly experiences heatstroke, take him to the nearest animal clinic immediately. 

The vet Tampa FL will assess the current condition of your pig and identify whether the following must be conducted:

• Use of subcutaneous fluid or IV to address dehydration
• Hold oxygen therapy
• Administer oral sugar medications 
• Your pig will recover soon depending on the duration and severity of the heatstroke. Extreme heat can kill Guinea pigs, but mild cases may incur recoverable conditions.

Will Labrador Retrievers Make Excellent Watchdogs ?

Labrador Retrievers are hyperactive, lively dogs, but they tend to slow down as they mature. But overall, they are generally active throughout their lifespan. These dogs can certainly make a way to escape, but you can easily prevent this with the perfect motivation— a treat, perhaps. Nevertheless, you may want to ensure that your dog has a microchip and identification tag.

If there is something Labrador Retrievers will not excel at, that's probably being a watchdog. As a matter of fact, some Lab owners may say their dogs are too helpful and sweet that when an intruder gets in the house, there is no doubt they will happily lead them to where the goods are stored.

Nevertheless, these dogs have surely proven their versatility and usefulness throughout their long history. They served as fishermen's companions, show dogs, working dogs, and field retrievers. And, of course, the one role they consistently excel at is being a friend and companion.

Take a proactive approach to your pet’s health with regular health and wellness checks at your animal hospital Tampa, FL.

Loss Of Appetite In Senior Dogs -- What To Do?

 

As a dog lover, you would surely like to give your dog all the time, care, and attention that he deserves. This is especially true if you have a senior dog, as his needs may differ from that of the younger ones.

Because senior dogs are more prone to illnesses and diseases, they may also experience major changes in how they do things, how they behave, including their lifestyle. One of the first things that change as your dog ages is his feeding style. You may notice that his appetite may change and he may not enjoy eating the way he used to.

If you notice changes in your dog's appetite, make sure to bring him to the vet for proper evaluation. His loss of appetite may be triggered by other medical issues that must be uncovered and treated immediately.

A sudden change in your pet's appetite and/or eating habits should warrant a visit to your pet clinic Tampa, FL.

Does A Pet Ferret Need A Microchip?

 

Microchips are a safe and permanent method of identification and this could help you to reunite with your pet in case they get missing. It is a protective measure that allows higher chances for pets to be identified and returned to their owners in case they get lost.

Microchips are inserted under the skin of your ferret, it is about the size of a grain of rice. This tiny chip includes your important identifying details, and when scanned into the database, your information will show and the person or animal care facility will get the chance to contact you to bring back your pet. 

You can bring your pet to your vet and talk about the pros and cons of the microchip. They are skilled in injecting the microchip and will assist you in processing your information on the registry. The procedure can be very quick and painless, and it can be done once as it will last a lifetime.  

Your vet Tampa, FL is a valuable resource when it comes to issues that affect your pet’s health and behavior.

Does Your Dog Lick Excessively? -- What Not to Do

Do not penalize your pet dog for licking too much. Dogs only try to seek comfort or convey stress, and punishment is ineffective in addressing the motivation for the behavior. Dogs lick for various reasons, and you need to understand that dog licking can be complicated. Be patient and take measures to reduce your pet's discomfort when you know the cause while trying to understand why your pet dog is licking too much. When the pain is gone, there are no unwanted behaviors. Here's how to discourage dogs from taking this action: 

•Offer dog-biting toys, treat puzzles to distract your pet from excessive licking and let it play with various activities to burn its pent-up energy. 

•Clean the surface that the dog licks. Old spills, sweat, and other contaminants are palatable to pets and can cause licking. 

•Modify your dog's diet to relieve food allergies, irritated skin and nausea. All of these can cause excessive licking. 

•Make sure your dog has appropriate dental and oral care as tissue damage and gingival inflammation can cause licking as the dog tries to relieve pain. 

•Treat arthritis and joint problems with the right medicines and devices. B. Assist your pet in taking little steps to get to the sofa or bed to relieve the pain.

Your veterinarian Tampa, FL is a valuable resource when it comes to issues that affect your pet’s health and behavior.

Puzzle Feeders For Cats

 

Cats are generally great hunters. Ancient felines enjoyed an active lifestyle in which they explored their environment to hunt for prey, kill it, and consume it. This instance is quite different from how modern domesticated cats get their food. 

Today, cats are given their meals through a bowl. This undertaking is a common scenario that has become a daily routine. While this instance is safe for your pet cat, understand that it also beings a downside. Not letting your cat explore the outdoors and hunt for food takes away opportunities for her to exercise, and use physical strength, and mental ability.

Another negative impact of a sedentary lifestyle is the higher risk of your cat becoming obese. Your cat will only have to walk toward her food bowl, with fewer avenues to be physically active.

Thus, it would be best to prepare your cat’s meal in a puzzle feeder. This item contains food that is released through proper manipulation. This product is ideal to stimulate your feline’s physical and mental skills.

Any concern you may have about your pet’s diet should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian Tampa, FL.

The Australian Cattle Dog: Interesting Facts About The Breed

 

Australian Cattle Dogs have a very active mind and body. A regular job or stimulation is, therefore, necessary to keep them occupied, tired, and near any trouble. These dogs also have biting tendencies, which is a dangerous behavior, as we all know. Luckily it can be addressed with socialization and training.

Since they are "shadow dogs," this breed tends to get very devoted to their person. They don't like it when they get separated from their owner. The most effective way to help these dogs to become friendly around children and other animals is to raise them together from childhood/puppyhood.

To ensure you'll get only the best, healthy pooch, refrain from buying from irresponsible breeders, pet shops, and pet mills. Instead, find a trustworthy breeder from which you are sure that their dogs don't carry bad temperaments and genetic disorders that may get passed on to the next generation.

Consult your veterinarian Tampa, FL about the best ways to protect your pet from various health issues. 

Anxiety And Boredom Could Be The Cause Of Paw Chewing In Dogs

 

You may be surprised to learn, but it is true: when your dog becomes anxious or bored, he may exhibit paw chewing, licking, and biting behavior. Yes, you have read that right. Dogs do not only demonstrate this behavior when they feel pain and discomfort or when they feel like cleaning themselves.

Experts explain that dogs bite or lick their nails and paws to soothe themselves when feeling excessively anxious. Doing these things help the species distract themselves and forget about their 

uncomfortable feeling. Dogs who are anxious normally chew and lick their front paws.

Bored dogs also find relief by chewing and biting their paws. Doing this helps them do something more “worthwhile.”

If you want your dog to avoid this behavior for the said reasons, consider doing the following:

• Increase playtime with your dog
• Incorporate training sessions to stimulate your dog’s mental skills
• Give food puzzles and chew toys

If you have concerns about your pet's health and/or behavior, make an appointment with your animal clinic Tampa, FL.

Why Pets Might Drink Too Much Water

 

Pets do not usually drink plenty of water. This is the ordinary case for most animals, like cats and dogs. So, do not be surprised if your beloved pets are not always hydrated the way they are supposed to be.

Instead, be surprised when your pets consume severe amounts of water. Why? Because doing so may be a symptom of chronic disease, including diabetes, hypothyroidism, or kidney disease.

The moment you notice your pets are gulping too much water, contact your vet immediately and have your pets checked.

Dogs are at a higher risk of having this medical condition, particularly the following breeds:

Border collies

Jack Russell Terriers

Small, athletic dogs

So, help your pets drink enough water they need to stay hydrated, especially during the hot months. Encourage or motivate them by always filling in their bowls with clean water. In this way, they sure can stay active and healthy.

A sudden change in your pet’s drinking and/or urinating habits should be brought to the attention of your vets Tampa FL.

Why Many Are Going Ga-Ga About Chihuahuas

Everyone is familiar with these small and sassy dogs. Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed, and some only weigh at least 2 lbs. They are tiny, but they have big personalities. Once you show love to them, they would become very devoted and loyal to you.

Their strikingly big eyes, pointed ears, and small body set them apart from other breeds. Chihuahuas vary in colors. It is typical to see red, chocolate, white, and mixed. Like other small breeds, their life expectancy is long. They could live for up to 14 years.

It is thought that Chihuahuas’ ancestors came originally from Mexico. Mexican folklore believes that Chihuahuas guide the spirit to protect them as they travel through the underworld. 

It is during the 1850s when Chihuahuas were discovered in the Mexican State of Chihuahua, and that’s how their name was derived. One variation of Chihuahuas with long hair was made from mixing them with Pomeranians or Papillons. 

Chihuahuas have earned their place as one of the most popular dog breeds. They are also ranked 13th among 155 other dog breeds.

Your veterinarian Tampa FL  is a valuable resource when it comes to your pet’s health and needs.

Maintaining A Healthy Enclosure For Your Pet Hamster

Hamster enclosures have to be filled with deep enough bedding so that the animals could burrow.  A couple of ideal options for bedding are pellets made of recycled paper and non-cedar wood shavings.  To keep away bad odors and keep the enclosure clean, the bedding has to be replaced weekly at the very least.  Hamsters typically designate a corner of the enclosure as the bathroom so clean that corner more often.

A hamster’s activity levels drop as temperatures go below 60 degrees F, which makes them ‘permissive hibernators.’  Should temperatures continue to drop, the hamster will hibernate by curling up as if a ball.  It will slow its breathing down and sleep deeply.  When hibernating, they will barely move.  First-time keepers might get alarmed thinking that their pet is dead or dying.

Do not disturb your hamster if it is hibernating.  Try adjusting the temperature in 5-degree increments up every 6 to 8 hours until it goes back to around 68 to 75 degrees F.  In the summer season, relocate your hamsters to a cooler spot in your home because these pets are quite vulnerable to heat stress.

Your veterinarian Tampa, FL is a valuable resource and offers you additional advice when it comes to your pet’s health and needs. 

Do Hamsters Make Great Pets?

Hamsters are very adorable and furry. Hence, kids and even yourself often stop at the pet stores to sneak peek at these cute guys. Hamsters are notable for being a little nippier than the guinea pigs, cousins of their family line. Nevertheless, having a hamster as a pet is still fun and a good idea for beginners like kids and even for grown-ups to look after. Like the typical cats, female hamsters are more likely to have an attitude issue, as they are commonly known to bite more than male hamsters.

Having a female hamster may seem like a difficult task, however, they are all special in their way. Your hamster's character might have possessed more or less than the typical ones. Raising a hamster is very easy, especially for your kids. Hamsters would only require enough space for their cage to stay in with some additional tunnels for them to play with, an exercise wheel, and of course, comfortable space for nesting.

Make an appointment at your veterinary hospital Tampa, FL for your pet’s health and dental checks.

Interesting Facts About Your Dog’s Paw Pads

A dog’s paw pads are made up of a layer of skin that is pigmented in black or pink and is covered by fatty tissue. With the insulating protection of fats, your dog’s paws are given a layer of protection from cold areas during the winter season. Paw pads are an important part of your dog’s foot, and it works together with your dog’s nails, which gives extra protection to the pads. Overall, paw pads play a vital role in the balance of your dog since it provides shock absorption, stableness, and traction. 

The texture of the pads can be soft and smooth or callused and rough. The main reason for the difference in texture is because paw pads adjust to the need of your dog depending on the terrain that he keeps walking on. 

Any problem with your pet’s paw pads should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian Tampa, FL. Visit their site to know more.

Eye Injuries in Dogs Like the Malamute

 

If you own a dog like the Malamute or another breed of canine then you may already be familiar with how sometimes scary and stressful eye injuries can be. The first thing to do if your Malamute injures his eye is to call your vet immediately. An injury can sometimes be the result of an eye irritation due to an eyelash or other type of debris in the eye. Irritation and inflammation can also be caused by a scratch whether big or small. Signs that your dog may have scratched his eye include watery eyes, green or yellow eye discharge, squinting, excessive blinking, and an avoidance of bright lights. Your vet will need to examine your dog’s eye to determine the source of the problem. He may “stain” the eye to identify the scratch more clearly. Consult with your vets Tampa, FL for treatment options.

Scooting in Dogs

 

You are sitting in your living room with a few visitors when your dog suddenly begins scooting their bottom on the floor in front of everyone. Anything that causes itching, soreness or a dirty bum can make your dog scoot. The other reasons for scooting include anal sac inflammation, food allergies and a low-fiber diet.

A dog has two anal sacs beneath the skin, immediately below the anus. Anal sacs are spherical, pea-sized pouches in small pets and grape-sized pouches in larger canines. The sacs secrete a thin, yellow-to-brown, foul-smelling substance that drips onto the dog's feces automatically as it defecates. Dogs also make use of this substance to communicate with other animals.

When the anal glands get impacted, the dog usually experiences discomfort. Manual draining of the anal sacs may be necessary for these dogs. Ask your veterinarians Tampa FL, or groomer how to manually drain if your pet dog repeatedly suffers from anal sac impaction.

My Burmese Swallowed a Penny

Contact your vet right away if you think your Burmese or other feline breed has swallowed a penny or other change. Swallowing a penny is not only a choking hazard, but it can also be toxic and potentially fatal. Prior to 1982 the penny was made completely of copper, which is not extremely harmful if swallowed. However, after 1982 the government called for the penny to be made of zinc, which is cheaper. Only the outer coating of the penny is copper. Once swallowed the copper quickly washes away exposing your Burmese to zinc, which is toxic to most felines. Toxic poisoning through zinc may induce symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea, blood in urine, yellow mucous, liver and kidney failure and anemia. If your Burmese swallows a penny call your vet immediately. X-rays may be taken to identify the zinc and remove it as quickly as possible. Learn more here or call your animal hospital Tampa FL.

Brushing Long-Haired Dogs

 

Brushing your dog’s coat is one way to bond with your pet. Brushing helps in natural oil production, making the coat shiny and smooth. How often you should brush your pet’s hair depends on its coat type. Short-coated dogs usually need brushing once a week. An essential tool in brushing your pet’s hair is an appropriate pet brush or comb. For dogs with a long and silky coat, brush it daily using a slicker brush to remove the tangles followed by a bristle brush. For dog breeds with hair that extends to the feet, such as the Afghan Hound, trimming the hair around the feet is necessary. Dogs that have long hair are prone to matting. In some instances, using a slicker brush will not do. You may clip the hair for heavily matted fur, but with extra caution not to cut the skin.

Skin and/or hair coat problems in dogs warrant a visit to a vet clinic Tampa FL.

Can You Give Rawhide Treats To Dogs ?

 

Rawhide is a type of treat that comes from the inner layer of a cow or horse hides. A lot of dog owners give such treats to their pups to help with their teething or keep them busy. Chewing is just a natural thing for dogs and rawhide can give them something “real” to chew on rather than your socks, furniture, or electric cords. One great benefit of chewing is that there is enough pressure that can be applied to their teeth and gums, which can remove tartar or plaques. You should be careful in giving them rawhide with large pieces because it could cause vomiting or diarrhea; smaller pieces are better but they should be large enough to avoid swallowing the whole thing. Digestion of this takes time and can cause discomfort therefore it is best to take it away from them when it gets small enough to be swallowed.

Your veterinarian Tampa, FL is a valuable resource when it comes to issues that affect your pet’s health and well-being.

Canine Diabetes

 

Did you know that canine diabetes can affect a large number of dog breeds? What is canine diabetes? In general, canine diabetes occurs when there isn’t enough insulin in a dog’s body causing the body to break down fat and protein reserves as energy alternatives. As a result the dog may start to lose weight and develop high levels of sugar in the bloodstream. Like humans, dogs produce insulin in the pancreas and release it into the cells in response to digested proteins turning it into glucose in the bloodstream. When there is a lack of insulin or the body doesn’t know what to do with the insulin then the glucose remains in the bloodstream. Dogs that have diabetes will most likely be extremely thirsty and urinate frequently. Call your veterinarian Tampa, FL if your dog is showing signs of diabetes. Your vet will be able to run tests and let you know if your dog is diabetic or not.