Ways to Keep Your Cat Warm in the Winter

When the colder months approach it’s a good idea to bring your outdoor cat indoors. If you don’t want your cat inside the house, set up a place for in the garage, porch, basement or other area where she will be out of the weather and any cold drafts. You may want to set up a corner for her in a room where you can place a litter box, blankets and a few toys along with a water bowl and food. Make sure she’s away from heater vents as these could be too warm. If your cat doesn’t have a very thick coat (i.e. a Manx, Siamese, etc.) consider having her wear a coat for extra warmth especially if she goes outdoors for a short time. Sweaters are not recommended since a cat’s claws could get stuck in them. Talk with your veterinarian Castle Hills, TX for more tips.

When to Report Possible Cat Abuse

If you suspect that a cat is not being cared for properly such as not being fed or even being beaten you should report the cat and owner to the local humane society or animal shelter. You may even call the police. You shouldn’t approach the owner unless you know the owner. Even then you should be polite and non-accusing. You may find the cat is ill which could explain its malnourished appearance. It’s hard to tell when to call and report possible abuse in case you’re wrong. But if you continually see a cat that looks underfed or beaten up don’t ignore your gut instinct. Report it to the authorities. It’s better to report it then to let it go in case the cat is suffering. Don’t investigate yourself. Let the professionals do it. You could also ask your veterinarians Bolingbrook, IL for his advice.

Questions to Ask at Your Ferret’s Vet Appointment

When you take your ferret in for his routine exam, plan to take a list of questions with you as well. This is your time to ask the vet any questions you may have about your ferret’s health, habits and routine. For instance, ask the vet if your ferret’s weight is on target or if your ferret needs to lose or gain weight. Tell your vet what you feed your ferret for meals and snacks to make sure it’s OK. Tell your vet how much you feed your ferret and how often. If there’s a correlation between what your ferret eats and his weight your vet can tell you and help you change the diet. Make sure your ferret is drinking enough water. If your ferret has any odd habits now is the time to mention them. Take advantage of your appointment with your veterinarian Cherry Hill, NJ by finding out all you need to know for ferret care.

How to Dress your Cat for a Walk in the Snow

Does your cat like to go on walks? If so, make sure you dress her appropriately for a walk in the snow. First, you and your cat should both wear some type of reflective or bright clothing and gear so that you don’t blend in with the snow. If it’s snowing you may want your cat to wear a rain coat to protect against the wet snow. If the snow is soft you will most likely have no problem walking in it. For icy pathways though your cat may need paw protectors to give her traction on the ice and to protect her paws from any chemicals used on the sidewalks to treat the ice. If it’s super cold your cat may need a blanket. Maine Coon’s are pretty well covered in their own fur but a Siamese may be cold because of her thin coat. For more tips and suggestions, give your veterinarians Hyattsville, MD a call.

Things to Ask Your Vet at Your Cat’s Checkup

It’s important to make the most of your cat’s annual vet visits. The time is all yours so take advantage of it and run things by your vet that you’re unsure about when it comes to your cat’s health and habits. For instance, ask your vet if your cat’s weight is good or if it’s over or under what it should be. Tell your vet what you feed your cat (food and snacks) and ask if there’s something you should do different. Tell your vet how much and how often you feed your cat. If your cat has any peculiar habits that he’s just started (i.e. missing the litter box occasionally) tell your vet. This is also a good time to make sure your cat is drinking enough water and getting enough exercise. There’s not a wrong question you can ask your veterinarians Las Vegas, NV so any concerns you have about your cat voice them at your appointment.

Pros And Cons Of Giant Dog Breeds

Many dogs that are classified as giant breeds weigh over 100 pounds. Despite their sizes, these dogs are gentle and very loyal. Some of these dogs make ideal pets for families with kids. They can also be easy to train and won’t need as much physical activity because their energy levels are not very high. But having a giant dog breed in the home means there should be enough space for everyone and everything in the household. It will also mean a bigger budget for food, pet supplies like crate, collar, leash, food and water bowls, etc. If your pet has large jowls, you should be prepared to deal with copious amounts of drool. Many of these dogs are also prone to various congenital diseases that can affect major organs of the body. Compared to most dogs, these gentle giants have shorter lifespans. The average lifespan of most dogs is 12-15 years while it’s only 6-10 years for the giant breeds.

Take your pet to your veterinarians Marietta, GA for regular wellness checks to ensure his health and well-being.   

Health tips For Cats - How to Keep Your Senior Cat Healthy into Old Age

Cats that remain healthy and active during their growing up and adult years tend to have a better quality of life during their senior years. However there are also other factors that can influence the longevity of cats including heredity, breed, and the care and attention they received from their owners. Here are ways to take a proactive approach to your cat’s health and well-being:

l  Read up about your cat’s breed so you will have an idea about potential risk factors associated with their health.

l  Never compromise your pet’s health when it comes to meeting his dietary needs. Always give a lifestage-appropriate premium quality pet food.

l  Check your cat regularly for fleas, ticks, mites, bumps, lumps, injuries, etc. and bring them to the attention of your veterinarian.

l  Provide adequate opportunities for physical and mental stimulation.

l  Don’t skip or keep on postponing your pet’s wellness checks and dental visits to your veterinary clinic Pickerington, OH. 

Can Dogs And Cats Be Allergic To Poison Ivy?

The hypersensitive reaction that is triggered when people are exposed to poison ivy is caused by the Urushiol, an oily substance that is present in the plant. Fortunately, dogs and cats are not allergic to Urushiol thus they don’t develop any rashes even if they rolled in it. They may also be protected from the effects of the allergen by their hair coats. The bad news is, uroshiol can stick to their hair coats and this means they can carry the substance inside the home and spread it on surfaces, objects, and even people. Because it is oily, it can exist in the surroundings for quite some time. If your pet was exposed to poison ivy, be sure to bathe him before allowing him inside the home. Remember to wear gloves to avoid getting into contact with the substance.

If your pet appears to be engaged in persistent scratching, a visit to your vet clinic Tipp City, OH should be made sooner rather than later. 

Is It A Good Idea To Adopt A Pet During The Holidays?

There is a right time to adopt a pets and this is not during the holidays when everyone is busy and in a rush for last minute shopping, parties, travel, etc. There is so much noise and house guests come and go. If you choose to adopt a pet during the holidays, you will hardly have enough time to help your new pet through the transition period. Training a new pet will also need a substantial amount of time and effort. It is best to forego bringing home a new pet until after the holidays when everything is back to normal and you have enough time to devote to a newly adopted pet.

Unfortunately, there are people who give away pets as gifts. But experts frown upon this practice. The decision to have a new pet should be deliberated on carefully so every member of the family can pitch in and help make the new pet’s transition period a positive experience for everyone in the household.

Your new pet needs to be taken to your veterinary clinic Teller County, CO for a wellness check and to have his vaccinations updated. 

Positive Reinforcement Tips For Cat Training

Training methods that use positive reinforcement have been shown to achieve the desired results within a shorter length of time. In fact, many professional trainers use positive reinforcement for dog training and getting rid of undesirable habits and behaviors. Cats undergo basic training programs as early as possible. The promise of treats and the desire to please their humans help them sail through training. For positive reinforcement to be effective, the reward, such as a treat, lavish praise, etc. should be given immediately after the desired behavior is displayed by the cat. This is the best way to tell your kitty that you are pleased with his progress. When training pets, there is no place for punishment or any form of negative reinforcement because it is counterproductive and will only confuse the animal. Don’t hesitate to discuss your pet’s training needs on your next visit to your vet clinic Mt. Airy, MD.

Microchips For Exotic Pets

The use of microchips for pet identification not only for cats and dogs. In fact, these are now used for many species of animals. Exotic pets have now become a lucrative business resulting in rampant theft of these pets. If you a pet bird, hedgehog, or reptile, having it microchipped is one of the best decisions you can make for your pet. If ever it is stolen, you have a better chance of getting reunited with your pet. The grain-size microchip is inserted under the animal’s skin in a quick and relatively painless procedure. If you are buying pet insurance, having a microchip on your pet can spell a big difference because insurers assume that there is a lesser probability that they will receive a claim on a pet that has been fitted with a microchip. You should talk to your veterinarians Glen Ellyn, IL if you have any questions and/or concerns about microchips in pets. 

Understanding Your Finicky Cat

Some cats are finicky when eating while others gobble down their food quickly. Your finicky cat probably has a distinct preference for either wet meat or dry cat food. She may ignore her food bowl if you give her the wrong one. You may be tempted to feed your cat yummy treats all day but then she may resist eating her nutritionally complete cat food. To work with your finicky cat, cut out the treats. Consider feeding her several small meals over time. Put the food away after about 15 minutes even if your cat hasn’t finished eating. Canned meat could go bad if it is out too long and dry food could get stale. Your cat may prefer room temperature food so consider warming it up if it has been kept cold. Be patient and creative in working with your finicky cat. Ensure you rule out any medical issues. For more information, contact your veterinarian Farmers Branch, TX.

If Your Dog Is So Hyper That You Can't Brush Him

Some dogs are lazy. That makes them exceptionally easy to brush! Unfortunately, not all dogs are that way. Some are so hyper that they won’t sit still long enough to be groomed. What can you do if your dog is so hyper that he doesn’t want to be brushed?

If your dog is prone to bouts of energetic behavior, you have to let him burn off that energy first. Take him outside for a walk or play with him in the backyard. If you can burn off some of that energy, he’ll be more likely to put up with being brushed.

You can also try going after your pooch when he’s sleeping. If he’s already at rest, he’ll be more likely to put up with your brush.

Of course, you could have a groomer do all the hard work for you! For a grooming recommendation, call your vet Portland, OR.

Treating a Feline Tail Injury

Cats get a lot of use out of their tail. Not only is it a great way for them to communicate with you and other animals, it can provide them with balance. Imagine what life must be like for a cat with an injured tail! Here are a few tips for treating your poor feline friend.

Your first stop should be your vet’s office. You have to determine if your cat’s tail was dislocated or broken. They can provide you with x-rays, and they can provide you with medication. They may recommend an amputation if the injury is very severe.

Follow their directions when your cat is healing. Chances are, you’ll be asked to let your cat rest as much as possible. Provide him with plenty of water and positive attention.

To learn more about how to treat your cat’s tail injury, speak with your veterinarian Portland, OR.

Understanding FIV and FeLV in Cats

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) are highly infectious diseases that severely compromise your cat’s immune system. Each of these diseases can make your cat very ill and eventually kill your cat. Transmission occurs from direct contact between cats that share body fluids but cannot be transmitted to humans. This can occur during grooming, fighting or mating. Vaccinations will help your cat become immune to these diseases. Don’t miss any regular booster shots to maintain adequate protection. If your cat does get either FIV or FeLV, you must keep her inside at all times to prevent infection of other cats. If exposed to these diseases, your cat may experience lethargy, fever, weight loss and an unkempt appearance. Treat the symptoms and keep her comfortable but there is no cure for either of these diseases. These symptoms mimic other diseases so make an appointment with your veterinarian Conyers, GA for diagnosis and treatment.

Why your cat needs a break-away feature on her collar

Your cat needs you to offer her a collar she can wear to let others know that she has a home to call her own. Why must this include a break-away feature?

A break-away feature allows your pet to easily remove her collar if she gets it stuck on something. This may seem like a negative feature if you want your pet to keep her collar on, but it is essential in order to keep your pet safe. Because your little fur ball could get herself into tight spots and sticky situations, she may find herself unable to break free without this feature on her collar. If she happens to snag it on something and can’t back her head out of her collar, she would otherwise be stuck. A break-away feature will help her get home to you much more easily. Your local vets London, ON can offer additional suggestions.

Sudden Weight Loss In Cats

Sudden or explained weight loss in cats is not something to be taken lightly by cat owners. Identifying the underlying cause is very important so the problem can be addressed in an appropriate manner. There are many conditions that can cause rapid weight loss in cats; here are two of them:

Heavy parasite load

Gastrointestinal parasites can compete with the nutrients that a cat should have gotten from his daily diet. The heavier the parasite load, the more competition a cat has to valuable nutrients. Regular deworming can help ensure that cats are free from parasites and are able to utilize all the essential nutrients from their food intake. Always ask your vet Marion, IA for an effective deworming product that can be safely used for your pet.

Stress

Cats can be very sensitive to certain stressors in their environment. Chronic exposure can wreak havoc on their physical and emotional health. 

Can Diatomaceous Earth Be Used For Flea Control

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a traditional way of controlling insects including fleas and mites. It is made up of a type of algae called diatoms that have been fossilized. Diatoms have cell walls that is made up of silica which has a glass-like property, thus giving the cell walls glass-sharp edges. The edges can pierce the hard outer shell (also called exoskeleton) of insects, thereby killing them.

Diatomaceous earth is safe for use around pets and people. It is often spread on any surface, even carpets and pet bedding. However, there is a need to vacuum the area daily to remove DE and the dead fleas. The downsides of using DE include being messy and it can also irritate eyes and throat. It is also less effective in environments that are wet and humid .Putting on a mask before spreading the DE on the floor or any surface can help prevent the problem. It’s a good idea to consult your animal hospital Ellicott City, MD regarding flea or tick preventatives that can be used safely on your pet.

Reasons to Bathe Your Cat

Most pet parents can get away without bathing their feline friends. After all, cats don’t like water anyway! However, there are some good reasons to reconsider bath time for your cat.

Is your cat struggling with dandruff? If so, he may have dry skin, and a bath could help. You just have to make sure you choose the right shampoo. Look for a moisturizing formula with oatmeal. Medicated shampoo may also be an option.

Bathing your cat can help you get rid of dead hair. It can be especially helpful for cats with thick, double coats that can be difficult to brush. Just make sure you have a hair stopper in the tub, so it doesn’t all end up down the drain!

For help bathing your cat, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian Tampa, FL, and they can provide you with a recommended groomer near where you live.

Should you bring home a cat tree?

You have a feline friend in your life and you are happy to offer her everything she needs to thrive in your care. Should you bring home a cat tree for her?

Your pet needs to be able to move throughout your home with confidence that her needs will be met. This means that she will require plenty of pet supply items to help her stay healthy and happily entertained. A cat tree can help with this because it offers her a space she can call her own. It can be helpful to you as well since it can take the place of several pet supply items that your pet needs within her living space. This multitasking item can help your pet have a spot to relax, play, scratch on, climb on, and view her living space from. For more information, please contact your local vet London, ON.

Campylobacter Infections in Dogs and Cats

Campylobacter infections can occur not only in cats, dogs, and humans but also in other warm-blooded animals. The primary avenue by which the infection is transmitted to susceptible animals is through ingestion of meat and meat products that have been contaminated and/or uncooked. Directed contact with contaminated fecal materials is also an important mode of infection. Pets that are placed on a raw diet program can have higher risks of acquiring the infection.

The number of cases of Campylobacter infections tends to be higher in puppies and kittens that are under 6 months old. Infected pets suffer diarrhea which is brought about by the action of the toxin produced by the causative agent. Other signs include vomiting, fever, and sudden loss of appetite.

Fortunately, you can protect your pet from Campylobacter infections by several ways. These include giving only premium quality diet and/or cooked food, storing pet food at an appropriate temperature to avoid spoilage, not giving raw or unpasteurized milk to your pet, and avoid mixing raw meat with other foods.

You should call your veterinary clinic Mt. Airy, MD if your pet’s diarrhea has been going on for a day, more so if it is accompanied by other signs of infection. 

Parasites in Pets - Fleas And Ticks

Parasites depend on other animal (the host) for their nourishment. Pets have both external and internal parasites. Fleas, ticks, and mites are the most common external parasites, while tapeworms, roundworms, heartworms, and hooksworms are common internal parasites of pets. A heavy parasite load, external and/or internal, can increase the host’s risks to serious health issues that can have a negative impact on their quality of life. Dogs that don’t receive regular deworming throughout the year, immune-compromised pets, and very young puppies and kittens are vulnerable to the effects of a heavy parasite infestation. Protecting your pet against parasites should be done throughout the year and not only during certain seasons. External parasites can cause a great deal of irritation, itching, and skin problems. There may also be loss of blood, hair loss, and hotspots. Fleas are also known carriers of tapeworms.

Work with your vet Green Bay, WI in creating a year-round parasite preventive program that targets both internal and external parasites. 

Are You Guilty Of These Pet Training Mistakes?

Is your pet’s training seems to be at a standstill? You may be thinking why you are not getting the results you desire. In order to address the issue, start by taking a break from training your pet, take a step back and evaluate the program and the process. This will give you a different perspective of the whole thing and help you straighten out what seems to be getting in the way of your dog’s learning process. Unfortunately, many pet owners are guilty of some mistakes when training their pets. And these mistakes can certainly affect a dog’s ability to learn and comprehend. One of these mistakes is in the use of treats to reinforce desired behavior. While positive reinforcement is an important tool in pet training, pet owners should know when a treat should be given and when to stop giving them. If you are too generous with the treats, your pet will soon learn to perform certain tasks or follow commands when there is a treat. Experts recommend that treats be gradually withdrawn once the dog has fully learned the behavior and/or is consistent in responding to specific commands.

Keep your pet healthy and active by bringing him regularly to your vet clinic Happy Valley, OR.

Common Health Issues That Can Cause Blindness In Dogs

Vision loss in dogs can be congenital or it can be a result of illness, trauma or acquired illness that can affect their sense of sight. Certain dog breeds have higher risks of becoming blind or suffering from eye problems. Vision problems can affect dogs of any age. In senior dogs, it could be part of the aging process as vital organ systems start to deteriorate. Cataract and glaucoma are just two of the most common problems associated with vision problems in dogs. Diabetes is a common predisposing factor of cataract formation and glaucoma. Dogs with cataract have a cloudy eye lens. Glaucoma is a painful condition because of the increased pressured inside the eye. Another important cause of blindness in dogs is progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). It is hereditary in certain breeds of dogs and is many caused by retinal degeneration. Unfortunately, there is no successful treatment for PRA. Early detection of eye problems can go a long way in improving prognosis particularly if it is not a congenital problem. Don’t hesitate to make an appointment with your veterinarians London, ON if you notice changes in your pet’s eyes, behavior, and/or health. 

Does Your Orange Tabby Have Black Spots On His Nose?

Many adult and senior orange tabbies or calico cats have black spots on their lips, nose, and around the eyes. The first few spots tend to appear on the cat’s nose and lips, growing in number, and some increasing in size with time. The average size of the spots is about 1 mm or less but since they are very close together, they create a distinct discolored spot that is hard to miss. The phenomenon is called Lentigo simplex. The good new is, it is completely harmless. They are accompanied by hair loss, redness, and abnormal changes in skin color. The spots are not-elevated, not painful or itchy.

Because of the possibility that a cat can be suffering from a skin condition that needs prompt veterinary attention, so it’s a good idea to have the spots checked out by your veterinarian Anderson, IN. More so, if the spots are elevated, and appears to be reddish and inflamed.

Dental Health Care For Cats

Tooth and gum problems are very common in cats thus there is a need to take a proactive approach in protecting your pet’s dental health. Truth be told, the health status of the mouth exerts an important effect on the overall health of cats. Infection in the mouth and its associated parts are important sources of microorganisms that can be carried by the blood circulation to major organs of the body where they cause infection.

Foul-smelling breath is often an early sign of a dental problem in pets. Decaying teeth, inflamed gums, and infections in the mouth can cause bad breath or halitosis. Affected pets may also exhibit excessive drooling and may lose their appetite because of the pain.

Regular dental visits at the vet’s and a regular home dental regimen can go a long way in promoting your pet’s dental health. If you spot any signs of tooth and gum problems, make an appointment with your vet clinic ckerington, OH sooner rather than later.  

Precaution Should Be Observed When Applying Anti-Flea Products On Cats

Cats are extremely sensitive to some active ingredients or anti-flea products. Exposure to these ingredients may cause irritation of body tissues as well as toxicity. Thus, when your cat has fleas, application of anti-flea products should be done carefully, making sure that the instructions of your veterinarian are met. During administration of flea shampoos, spot-ons, or powders, be careful around the eyes, ears, and genitalia of the cat. If there is a need to use a sprayer or fogger inside and outside your home, make sure that all pets are removed from the premises and only returned after the time indicated on the product label has passed. Before application of flea products, food and water bowls, toys, beds and beddings, etc. should be removed. Make sure the product that had been applied has dried up completely. Properly ventilation after the application is also very important. Allow air to move in and out of your home by opening all the windows and/or turning on exhaust fans. If you have just applied flea product, be sure to keep a close eye on your pet. Signs of toxicity like incoordination, lethargy, vomiting or weakness should be brought to the attention of your vet Tipp City, OH. 

How Hairless Cats Keep Regulate Their Core Temperature

The haircoat serves a variety of functions. One of these is its thermo-regulatory function, that is, it plays a very important role in helping the cat’s body maintain its core body temperature. The so-called hairless cat still have hairs on their body but these are very sparse. Thus, they don’t have the same protection that cats with haircoats have when it comes to environmental extremes. Since they don’t have the optimum thermo-regulatory function of a body that is well covered with hairs, the body of hairless cats adapted to this lack of hair by having a high rate of metabolism. With a higher rate of metabolism, hairless cats need to consume higher quantities of premium quality pet food than most cats in order to meet their body’s higher needs for energy.

A sudden change in your pet’s health and/or behavior should prompt an appointment with your animal hospital Tipp City, OH sooner rather than later. 

Why Cats Need Places To Perch

Cats instinctively jump and climb to reach vertical spaces where they can spend time monitoring their immediate surroundings. The instinct to perch on elevated spots has been inherited from their ancestors who lived in the wild. Climbing keeps them out of reach of potential predators and gives them an excellent spot to search for prey. Thus, even with domestication, cats instinctively seek high places where he will feel safe.

To make your pet at happy, there are certain instincts and behaviors that should be encouraged. Jumping and perching are just two of these behaviors. Cat parents should think of positive ways to ‘feed’ these instincts. Clearing some spaces on top of furniture and cabinets, cat trees, and kitty condos provide lots of opportunities for a cat to engage in natural behaviors safely. If you don’t want your kitty jumping and perching on top of the table, it’s high time that you provide suitable places to indulge these natural feline behaviors.

Any sudden change in your pet’s health and/or behavior should be brought to the attention of your vet Teller County, CO.

Taking Care of Your Cat in Below Freezing Temperatures

When the months grow colder you will need to adjust your cat’s routine to accompany the change in temperatures. For instance, let your cat outside during the mid morning or mid afternoon when it’s warmer. If you let her out in the early morning or late in the evening, stay out with her and make sure you comes right back in. If it’s too cold for you to be outside then it’s too cold for your cat to be outside. If your cat has a short coat like the domestic shorthair cat or even the Manx or Siamese, you may need to get her a sweater to help keep her warm. If you have a Maine Coon cat then her lush coat will keep her protected from the cold. Your veterinarian Farmers Branch, TX can tell you that even though it’s cold outside, your cat still needs to drink plenty of water. 

Things to Look Out For and Questions to Ask When Buying a Ferret

If you’re looking for an exotic type of pocket pet to add to your family think about hedgehogs, sugar gliders or even ferrets. These are all fairly common exotic pets that are easy to come by. Ferrets are especially fun animals because of their energy levels and playfulness. Before purchasing a ferret, make sure you ask a few need to know questions of the seller. For instance, ask what the ferret’s food requirements are. Find out if the ferret is on a special diet or if he has any particular exercise routine. Ask if the ferret has ever bitten anyone, escaped from his cage, or destroyed household items. Take note of the ferret’s current living environment. It should be clean with plenty of food and fresh water. Also take note of the ferret’s appearance. Your veterinarian Sugar Land, TX can tell you the ferret should have clear eyes, a clean nose, and be free of sores on his feet.

Why your guinea pig needs floor time

You have spent a lot of time with your pet, and you know that she needs you to look after her in more ways than one. You are also aware of the fact that she needs floor time on a daily basis. Why is this so important to your guinea pig?

Your pet needs to be able to get out of her cage each and every day. The space in her enclosure, no matter how nice you’ve made it for her, is still very confining. Her body needs to move about freely and she needs to enjoy some exercise. This means that she will crave this time outside of her enclosure in a safe area where she can take part in different activities, socialize, and take a break from the rest of her day. For more information, please contact your local vet clinic Michigan City, IN.