Is Your Cat At Risk for Heartworms?

 

Yes! You should always assume that your cat and all cats in general are at risk for heartworm disease. Whether you own a Manx or an American Wirehair, your cat can be vulnerable to heartworm disease. Heartworms can come is different sizes and are capable of invading the heart, lungs and blood vessels of your American Wirehair. The disease is transmitted through mosquitoes. Some cat owners believe regions of the U.S. are more prone to heartworms than others and may not see a reason to protect their cat. Heartworm disease; however, has been diagnosed in all 50 states. It should be assumed that the risk is present everywhere. The best way to protect your bobtail is to have her tested yearly for heartworms as well as place her on a monthly heartworm preventive program. If you’re not sure if your cat is already on a prevention program, please call your vets Lakewood Ranch, FL.

Dental Exams for Cats Like the American Wirehair

 

If you’ve noticed your American Wirehair or other feline having problems with her gums or teeth, please call your vet to schedule a routine physical exam. If your American Wirehair has trouble chewing or eating, has bad breath, or appears to have swollen gums then contact your vet. This could be an indication of gingivitis or other periodontal illnesses. Your vet will need to conduct a physical exam in order to determine a cause of the symptoms. If the symptoms are teeth or gum related then your vet may suggest scheduling a separate dental exam for your American Wirehair. During the dental exam your American Wirehair will be sedated so that the vet can thoroughly check her teeth and gums for plaque, bacteria, etc. During the exam your vet may scrape plaque or calculus build-up from the teeth, pull any rotted teeth and polish the teeth. Click here for more information or call your vets Sarasota, FL.

Should Cats Get Booster Shots ?

Young cats need protection from certain life-threatening diseases. This is why they need core vaccines as early as possible. 

In previous years, pet owners used to give booster shots for these core vaccines to continue getting protection from life-threatening diseases. But according to recent studies, booster shots might not be needed for all vaccines. There is not enough evidence to show that booster shots help.

If the pet owner wants to know the immunity level of the cat, they can ask the vet to conduct a blood test on the pet. These tests will know how much antibody is left in the cat, and if there is a need to get booster shots. 

But getting an annual blood test may be expensive in the long run. This procedure is even more costly than booster shots. You could also consider that a high count of antibodies does not equate to immunity to the disease. What's more, the procedure is also stressful for cats. 

If you have any questions and/or concerns about your pet’s vaccines or vaccination in general, don’t hesitate to talk with your veterinarian Kerrville TX. Click here to know more.

Small Dog Care Tips

 

Are you interested in adopting a smaller dog? Little pooches can make absolutely wonderful pets. Many were bred to be companion dogs, so they tend to have a very sweet, cuddly nature. While many of your pup's care needs will be the same as that of bigger dogs, there are some things you'll want to do differently.

Smaller dogs can easily hurt themselves jumping or climbing onto things like beds and chairs. Set out some pet ramps or stairs for your pet, so he can get up and down safely. You'll also need to be careful with what you feed him. Even giving Fido just ten calories too much each day can cause him to pack on extra pounds. Pay close attention to serving sizes, and don't go overboard with treats.

Training is also important. Your pooch may not pose much of a risk, but he can still get hurt if he doesn't listen to you. Make sure he knows basic obedience commands, like Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Lay Down. 

Your veterinarians Teller County, CO can give you more information on caring for a small dog. Or make an appointment here.

Taking Fido Swimming

 

Does your dog know how to swim? If not, you may want to teach him. Even if your pet doesn't care for water, and you don't plan to get a pool or spend a lot of time swimming with your dog, it's good for him to know.

You should never throw your canine buddy into the water. This is extremely dangerous for Fido, and it's also very scary for him. Instead, take time to support him as he is learning. Encourage him by talking to him in a gentle, friendly tone of voice. Hopefully this goes without saying, but treats should wait until your pet has all four paws on solid ground.

Just keep in mind that swimming isn't really right for all dogs. Very small dogs, brachycephalic dogs, and some larger dogs just aren't well-suited for it. Ask your veterinary clinic Teller County, CO if swimming is a good option for your dog.

Bad Breath in Cats Like the American Bobtail

 

There is actually a medical term for bad breath it that is halitosis. Halitosis is sometimes a signal to other mouth or health conditions in cats. Some vets recommend that you call and schedule a check up right away to determine what the cause of your cat’s bad breath is. Generally, your American Bobtail’s bad breath could be caused by a build-up of bacteria in the mouth. The bacteria can be the result of plaque and tartar build-up or it could be due to dental or gum disease. In less frequent instances, bad breath could signal a more serious issue going on in the mouth, respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, liver or even the kidneys. Signs of serious conditions may include extensive brown tartar on your cat’s teeth, drooling, lack of appetite, yellow corneas or gums, and pawing at the mouth. In any case, call your veterinarians Lewisville, TX to schedule an exam and treatment. Or click this website Riverchase Animal Hospital.

Tips When Traveling With Your Pet Cat

Cats and travel don’t mix. Even if you take your cat out for a short trip, she will still feel stressed out. But you need to encourage your cat to take these short trips, or else you will have a difficult time going to the vet or groomer later on.

You still need to go on trips with your pet cat, even if she is not comfortable doing it. so you need to devise ways to lessen your cat’s stress.

One way to calm your cat is by putting her on a crate. Include her favorite toys and treats so she will enjoy staying on the crate. Make sure that your kitty will still see you even if she is inside the crate. This way, she will not think that you are abandoning her. 

From time to time, you can put your fingers inside the crate so the cat can snuggle with you. But before you go on your trip, you can play with your cat so she will be calmer. You might also want to try getting stress remedy medicines for your kitty. You can find these at stores.

Call your veterinary hospital San Antonio TX to make sure that your pet’s preventatives and vaccinations are up to date before taking your pet on outdoor excursions.