Ensuring A Pet-Safe Home For The Holidays

 

The holidays are truly the time to go all out in terms of decorating the house. But do remember that these decorations are also possible hazards for your pet cat.

Some people like using flowers as decorations. But if you are a pet owner, it might be better to use artificial flowers rather than natural ones—they have strong scents and may cause complications once consumed by your cat. Some of these flowers that you need to avoid are lilies and amaryllis bulbs. Aside from the floral scents, liquid potpourri is also toxic to cats. Pine needles, European mistletoe, and other plants with similar compositions should also be kept away from your cat. All of these may lead to oral irritation or drooling once eaten, or worse, gastrointestinal problems.

Cats often climb high places, even Christmas trees during the holidays. It would be better to tie Christmas trees to the ceiling or wall to avoid them falling or breaking the ornaments on them. But when using any type of string, even ribbons or tinsel, make sure that your pet won't be able to swallow them to avoid obstruction. Candles are also not a good option for your climber cat as they might knock these down and start a fire. 

When opening presents, hide the batteries from your pet; these are also toxic materials that shouldn't be easily accessible to animals. Make sure to keep any materials that you think might cause harm to your pet.

Your veterinarian Marietta, GA can enlighten you about important health issues that can affect your pet. Learn more here.

What To Consider When Choosing A Litter Box

 

In choosing the perfect litter box for your cat, you must consider something that she will be comfortable with,  her preference, and how she is trained in using one. You have to analyze your cat's needs so you can potty train her. Ideally, cats prefer a clean, spacious, and uncovered litter box. 

You may try and test your cat’s preference because it is important to make her comfortable using the sandbox. You can test it by giving different options or locations. Some suggest that the litter box must not be scented as cats want stinky boxes.

Placing the box in the right place can also help her get comfortable when using it. You can set up the litter box in an area of the house that is free of clutter, loud noises, or distractions. When it's time for a pee or poop break, cats prefer some quiet and privacy.

Persistent litter box issues should warrant an appointment with your nearest veterinary hospital Marietta, GA to make sure that your pet’s behavior is not caused by an underlying health issue.

Tips To Prevent Excessive Chewing In Dogs

Chewing is an instinct of your dog. You should keep in mind that trying to reshape this habit is a bumpy road that requires resilience to achieve success. Here are some useful tips you can use to prevent your dog from excessive chewing.

Never scold your dog for his annoying chewing habit. Deal with the undesirable behavior with patience and love. Your pet should adore you for your kindness and tolerance: it’s only this way that he will follow your instructions.

Channel your dog's extra energy into something more fun than chewing. Keep him distracted with a playful environment. Give him toys and mind-simulating games so that he is left with no time to chew.

Dog-proof every area in your living room/garden where your dog can go wandering around. The rest of the time, keep a close eye on what catches your dog’s chewing fancy.

You can always take help from an expert dog trainer. They will recommend different techniques to prevent your dog from chewing.

Make an appointment with your veterinary hospital Marietta, GA if you have any concerns about your pet’s behavior.

Pool Safety For Dogs

 

Does your dog enjoy swimming? While many dogs love the water, pools can be very dangerous for them!

The first thing you would want to do is show your furry pal how to get out of the pool. That is very important, as if he falls in when no one is around, he could be in big trouble if he doesn't know how to get out! Consider marking the exit with a landmark, like a colored lifejacket or potted tree. It's best to use a gate to keep the pool out of bounds when it isn't in use.

Generally, you will want to follow the same types of rules for dogs as you would with toddlers. Never leave your pet unattended near water, and keep a very close eye on him when he is swimming.

Your local vet clinic Marietta, GA can give you more tips on keeping your pup safe near water.

When Should Your Cat See A Veterinarian ?

 

Having a feline friend requires a lot of care and responsibilities. One of which is to take your pet to the veterinary clinic regularly for vaccine updates and check-ups. As a pet owner, it is your responsibility to know when and how often you should take your cat to the veterinarian. Here are some suggestions on when and how to identify the timing of her visits. 

Taking your pet to the veterinary clinic regularly is necessary for continued care and allows the veterinarian to identify conditions of early-onset, preventing medical issues in the future. Oftentimes, the veterinarian will recommend schedules of visits which are usually done once or twice every year, depending on what your furry friend needs. Aside from that, there might also be instances that would warrant a visit to the veterinarian such as when care needed by your pet is beyond your capabilities, requiring professional attention. Some of these situations include getting sick, injured, and other circumstances that deviate from your daily care regimen.

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

Can Pets Have Adverse Reactions To Vaccines?

Vaccinating your pets protects them from critical medical problems that could be dangerous or fatal.  Yes, vaccines are important.  But do note that adverse or negative reactions are possible.  It is unfortunate that predicting these beforehand is not possible, so you have to be vigilant and observe your pet closely post-vaccination.  

There are negative reactions that could happen right after a pet receives a vaccine.  There are also those that might take several days or weeks before exhibiting negative reactions.  In general, mild reactions tend to pass quickly.  Some of these mild reactions include behavior changes, fatigue, and itching or swelling at the vaccination spot.  A serious reaction to a vaccine would be anaphylaxis.  An affected pet will show signs of autoimmune problems, respiratory difficulties, kidney failure, and various other critical indicators which should prompt you to take your pet to the veterinary hospital.

 

Your veterinarian Marietta, GA could address your concerns and questions regarding pet vaccinations and vaccines. Visit their site to know more.

How To Manage A Dog’s Destructive Behavior

 

Some pet owners have to deal with their dog's destructive behavior at one point or another. When they play too much or chew on objects around the house, they could end up destroying stuff like the carpet, furniture, shoes, and clothes.

Dogs chew as a way to alleviate pain, anxiety, and stress that they feel dogs engage in destructive behavior when they are teething, bored, scared, seeks attention, and suffering from a health condition.

Pet owners should provide physical and mental stimulation to the dog to keep him from doing any destructive behavior and feeling isolated.

Teething dogs should also get chew toys to prevent them from chewing inappropriate objects.

Human parents should also remove potential causes of destructive behavior. This is done by being aware of signs that lead to destructive behavior. For instance, if the dog starts to shiver, it may mean that the dog is feeling scared

You can bring the dog to the vet Marietta, GA to see if there is a medical reason for the dog's destructive behavior.

Signs Of Stress In Dogs

 

A dog that is exposed to stress-inducing situations can affect him negatively in terms of his well-being and health, particularly if that exposure is chronic.  Behavioral changes in the dog could be one of the effects of this constant exposure to stressful incidents.  A number of dog owners, regrettably, are not aware of this and the negative impact it has on their dogs.  Below are some symptoms that your dog is under heavy stress:

• Your dog’s appetite suddenly changes, particularly a sudden appetite loss. Other health conditions and issues must also not be discounted, as reduced appetite can be a symptom of a different issue, therefore, taking your pet to the vet for a check-up is much needed.
• Digestive distress, like constipation, vomiting, or diarrhea.  Should this symptom be present for  over 24 hours, take your pet to the vet immediately. The same goes for blood present in the vomitus or feces, or if accompanied by some other symptom. A trip to the veterinarian is a good thing.
• Dogs in highly stressful situations could also have certain shifts in their sleep patterns. Sleeping a lot more than what is usual for your pet as well as lethargy could also be observed.
• Stressed pets are easily triggered and aggression is displayed almost instantly.

A sudden change in your pet’s behavior should prompt a visit to your animal hospital Marietta, GA or click here.

Cats Will Benefit From Certain Vegetables And Fruits

 

Even though cats are true carnivores, they can have a lot to gain from additional nutrients from vegetables and fruits, including fiber, for the overall health of your cat's gut.  Fruits and vegetables are the best substitutes to commercially purchased kitty treats that are not very nutritional and have high-calorie contents.  If you plan to give vegetables and fruits to your kitty cat, you will need to prepare.  Try not to add any sugar, oil, salt, or any other seasonings.  Some fruits and vegetables are sugar-rich, or high have calorie content, therefore moderation is key.  Below are some fruits and vegetables that make great kitty treats:

●Bananas

Bananas have a unique texture that cats will enjoy.  These fruits are high in vitamins B6 and C, and also magnesium and potassium.

●Zucchini
 

Whether served cooked or raw, cats like zucchinis.  They are high in fiber and calorie content.  Do not add any seasoning if you are going to cook zucchinis for your cat.

●Beans
 

Cooked beans can be an excellent kitty treat.  Beans have a high fiber and protein content.  Remember to rinse beans properly, if you are to use the canned variety.  Washing canned beans before giving them to your cat will remove added seasoning and salt.

●Apples
 

A piece of apple will make a tasty treat for your kitty cat.  Be sure to remove the seeds first.

●Sweet potatoes
 

Sweet potatoes are served steamed, boiled, or baked, and could be offered to cats occasionally as treats.  This root crop is full of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, iron, and calcium.

Your vet Marietta GA is a valuable resource about your pet’s diet and nutritional needs. Learn more here.
 

Typical Cat Owner Mistakes to Avoid

 

It takes courage and lifelong commitment to share your home with a pet cat. Like humans, cats have their own basic needs that you need to meet regularly. Cats are indeed independent animals, but they would still benefit and need a cat owner's care and attention. By being aware of the common mistakes that cat owners make, you will be able to avoid them and make your owner-and-cat relationship a lot better.

Declawing

Declawing is not really necessary. Declawing is a painful procedure for cats. You should consider other alternatives to declawing.

Considering a cat as a kind of property

A cat is not a thing or property. Treat it with care and commitment.

Quantity over quality when it comes to cat food choices

Money is hard to come by but you should not skimp on your beloved cat's food. Choose the best high-quality cat food you can afford and find.

Your local pet clinic Marietta GA is a valuable resource about your pet’s health and well-being.

How Will You Know Your Dog Is Overweight?

Have you ever noticed your beloved pet dog has put on so much more weight? If you interact with your beloved furry canine friend on a daily basis, you might not notice that he has put on so much weight in the past few weeks or months. It might be difficult to detect any weight change in your dog when you are so used to seeing your dog. If you are guilty of this, you might not notice your dog has become obese until it is too late or when he has shown some illness or symptoms. If you have a dog that has a thick or long hair coat, it may make it a lot harder to detect body or weight changes in your beloved dog. You need to be really observant and ideally, you will systematically check his weight on a daily or weekly basis. You can run your hands throughout his body so you can feel any weight-related changes happening.

Consult your veterinarian Marietta, GA before making any changes to your pet’s diet or physical activity. 

More tips can be found at your Smyrna Animal Hospital. 

Outdoor play and your canine companion

There are a lot of different things you can do with your pet and you plan to make the most of each of them. What should you keep in mind when playing outside with your canine companion?

Your little fur ball needs some time outside every day in order to get some fresh air and explore the great outdoors. This will likely be when she gets the majority of her exercise, so keep in mind that the activities you offer her should get her up and moving while she isn’t hindered by the confines of your living space. You should also take the time to think about her mental stimulation as well, since your outdoor space offers her different experiences than your indoor areas do, widening her territory to include a lot of different experiences. For additional information, please contact your local vets Marietta GA.

Cat care supplies

Sharing your life with a cat means that you are opening up your home to a wonderful little fur ball. What supplies should you have on hand to make sure her needs are met?

Your pet will need the basic supplies you would expect, like a place to eat and drink with both healthy food and clean water in them. She will also need a litter box with a litter she enjoys and you will need supplies to keep this clean for her. A bed, a collar, identification tags, a brush, and oral care items are necessities as well. Your pet will need you to keep an eye out for an appropriate flea prevention method, a comfortable carrier for her, and plenty of toys for her to enjoy. Your local vet clinic Marietta, GA can help you care for your pet. Click here for additional information.

Ear Mites in Cats

Did you know that ear mites are responsible for about 50% of ear problems in cats? Yes, these pesky parasites are very contagious, which means they can easily be passed from one cat to the next. Cats with ear mites tend to frequently scratch and shake their heads. There may also be buildup of thick wax and there may be dark debris from the cat’s ears. Cats that are constantly scratching their ears and shaking their heads should be checked out by the veterinarian because without proper intervention, there may be loss of hair and the skin around the ears may become irritated, paving the way for secondary skin infection. Although there are many products that claims it can be used to treat ear mites in cats, it is recommended that you bring your pet to your veterinarian Marietta, GA so a safe and effective medication can be given. Take note that cats can be extremely sensitive to certain medications.    

Your canine and his companions

Your dog is a wonderful friend and you love that he is a part of your life. He is a very social creature and you know he enjoys interacting with other dogs. How can you help him keep up with his canine companions?

Your dog needs the opportunity to socialize and this is where you can really help him out. You can invite other dog owners to your home and encourage them to bring their pets. You can meet somewhere for a walk together or to play. There are also other spaces where your pet can get some interaction, like a dog park. Taking advantage of the opportunities to help your pet interact with other dogs can be a great way to keep him happily engaged in the world around him. For more information, please contact your local Marietta, GA vet clinic.