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.

A Broken Leg In Pet Rabbits

Broken legs or fractures that cause sudden difficulty in walking or jumping are recurring problems in rabbits.  This disease can have multiple origins that depend on the symptoms you rabbit it showing.  If you notice that your pet suddenly lacks balance, loss of bowel control, and is showing signs of pain and trembling mostly on their leg part, this may be a sign of leg injury. 

Some of the possible reasons your rabbit got a leg injury is when they jump or move too much, since rabbits' legs are fragile, they can easily break their legs with sudden movement. Other reasons may include aging, arthritis, and infection. 

Nevertheless. it is best to consult your vet whenever you notice some changes in your rabbit's movement. Treatments may vary depending on the condition and the cause of the injury while the prospect of recovery depends on the damage or illness of your pet and if there are underlying conditions that need to be treated as well. 

Any sign of a potential health issue exhibited by your pet should require a visit to your veterinary hospital Tampa, FL for proper medical attention.

Are You Dealing With Litter Box Issues?

 

With a pet cat comes a litter box to deal with— including the odor and maintenance that comes along with it. Without proper maintenance, your house will smell like cat urine. And, of course, you don't want that to have some guests get turned off by the foul, feline smell you've become accustomed to. Indeed, many cat lovers find it difficult to control the odor of litter boxes, but fortunately, there are effective ways to do that— one of which is a daily scooping routine.

Scooping clumps out of the box reduces the amount of waste that gets exposed at home. You should scoop at least once every day to minimize the odor that the box gives off. However, busy or multiple-cat owners may find this routine tiresome. Luckily, there are now alternative ways you can try other than the good old scooping.

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

How To Properly Groom Your Chinchilla

 The good thing about owning a chinchilla is that they know how to groom themselves regularly. Chinchillas are very clean creatures and don’t necessarily need heavy grooming since their style of cleaning keeps them in good condition. Your chinchilla prefers to groom itself through dust bathing. With dust baths, it is critical to use a type of sand specifically for your chinchilla’s fur. Note that dust collects grime, oil, and grease to help keep their coat in top shape, this kind of sand must be powdery, soft, or exceedingly fine. If you are unsure what sand to purchase, it is best to ask your vet or pet store for recommended options. 

Remember that your chinchilla might need dust baths frequently during the summertime, as humid temperatures and hot weather are at their peak. On the other hand, you can reduce how often your chinchilla takes its dust bath once wintertime rolls in. It’s easy to prepare your chinchilla’s bath, just put a bowl or tray with dust in its space and watch as your chinchilla will happily do its own thing by rolling around while coating itself with so much dust. 

There is no need for you to comb your chinchilla. Your chinchilla is not a big fan of having its fur brushed. The only exception to this is if it has matted its fur. You can use a lengthy comb to clear out the gunk only if it is unavoidable. Be very gentle and make sure not to stress your chinchilla so much when you do so. Luckily, the only occasional maintenance your chinchilla needs, and if it is not tired, is having its toenails trimmed from time to time. 

Any skin and/or hair coat issue exhibited by your pet should warrant an appointment with your pet clinic Tampa, FL. 

Skin Problems In Dogs

 

One indicator of your pet’s overall health is his skin.  Therefore, you are incentivized to keep your pet’s skin in great health.  If skin problems happen, you might see your pet lick, scratch, and/or chew excessively.  There could be lots of causes for skin issues such as stress, metabolic issues, infections, external parasites, or combinations of these. 

Odor 

You will want to first inspect your dog’s teeth and ears because these are frequently where bacteria that cause odors come from.  Keep your pet clean by regularly bathing him and you can stop odors.

Dog perfumes are probably not going to be harmful to pets if you follow the instructions when you use them.  But skin irritation could develop if your dog has skin allergies.  And if your pet has nasal allergies, these could be triggered by certain smells.  If you are thinking of using doggie cologne, follow the instructions closely and check with your veterinarian if your dog has an allergy history.

Should grooming prove unsuccessful and your pet still exudes a stinky odor, you will want to talk to your veterinarian Tampa, FL so that they can see if there is an infection or another underlying cause.

Keep Your Pet Safe During Winter By Checking Your Vehicle

 

Winter can be a harsh season for feral and outdoor cats. These felines do not have a haven where they can stay on cold nights and days. So, these animals are on the lookout for places that can give them warmth and can save them from the cold. But guess what? These places often include engine compartments and vehicle wheel wells.

You have read that right. Some felines who cannot bear the cold and who fail to find a more stable location suit themselves in vehicles they find vacant along with the road or parking areas.

Thus, experts advise car owners who do not have an indoor garage to do the following for the safety of pets within the vicinity:

• Tap on the hood or side of your vehicle
• Double-check if your pets are inside your home and not trapped or left inside your vehicle.

Note that pets can freeze to death when they stay in a vehicle parked outdoors for long hours.

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

Exercise Caution When Using Anti-Flea Products For Cats

 

Anti-flea products are effective in eliminating fleas in our pets. However, some of the components of these products may contain harmful ingredients for our pets.  The ingredients can cause irritation or poisoning.

This means that we need to be mindful when applying the products to the eyes, ears, and genitalia of the cat. Also, you should bring out the cat when you spray the anti-flea product around the house. You can bring out your pet again when the poison’s effect has lapsed.  You can check the label to see how long you should wait before it is safe to return to normal.

It is also safer to remove the cat’s food and water bowls, and other essentials when using the anti-flea product. In the same manner, you need to air-dry the bowls to keep the food safe. It will also help to let the window open to let the fresh air in. Check the cat’s behavior after using the anti-flea product. You want to know whether your pet will develop an adverse reaction afterward.

Ask your vet Tampa, FL for a flea product that is safe and effective for your pet. Schedule an appointment today!

How to Care for Basset Puppies and Their Mom

Did you know that weaning is the process of gradually reducing a Basset Hound puppy’s dependence or access to his mother’s milk and her care? In the weaning process a lot of focus will be placed on the puppies, but make sure you pay close attention to the mom as well. For example, talk with your vet about setting up a weaning schedule for the pups. Sticking to a schedule can help prevent the mother Basset from overproducing milk, which can cause painful or enlarged mammary glands. You want to make sure the puppies receive an adequate source of milk during the process while at the same time slowly weaning them. Remember weaning the puppies off of their mother’s milk also helps the mother to slowly dry up and stop milk production. Consult with your veterinarians Tampa, FL about the mother’s diet since a decrease in milk production usually calls for a decrease in food amount.

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.

Can Ferrets Be Housed With Other Pets?

 

Yes, a pet ferret is able to coexist with an additional ferret, or even perhaps two, in one cage, but if you have another kind of pet, try to think and consider things first.  As they are naturally predatory animals in their wild habitats, ferrets kept as pets will still keep their predatory instincts strongly coursing through their veins.

If a pet ferret is kept with a smaller animal, your ferret may think of the other animal as fair game.  Instances of young kittens and various other smaller pets getting killed by the pet ferrets do exist.

Risks are always involved if you decide to keep another pet species with a pet ferret in one enclosure.  If the ferret and the other pet are sized around the same, the threat could be somewhat reduced.  Introducing a pet ferret to a different pet species is quite the challenge and very close supervision is a must.

Your vet Tampa, FL can provide you with more information regarding ferret pet care.

Substances That Can Be Harmful To Cats

It is of utmost importance for owners of cats to be fully aware of what might cause harm to their cats since there are numerous substances in homes that can hurt their pets. To help diminish the chances of your pet ingesting any of these substances, it is best to keep these products out of your pet’s reach.  It is also recommended to check product labels first before feeding anything to your pet.

 

 Unlike dogs and humans, cats metabolize numerous things differently. This means that there are substances that don’t have any effect on dogs and humans when ingested but might cause serious issues in cats, such as kidney disease, liver problems, or even heart failure.  

 

Cat parents should also take precautions to prevent their pets from ingesting foreign bodies that could possibly cause an obstruction in or perforate the gastrointestinal tract.                                   

 

If you have any concerns about your pet’s health and/or behavior, call your vet clinic Tampa, FL for additional advice.

Caring for a Newborn Kitty

When a kitten is born, the primary concerns are bedding and feeding. Kittens are blind when they are born, and it is not until they are seven to fourteen days of age that they begin to open their eyes. They should have comfortable bedding made of soft fleece blankets. Place their bed in a safe and undisturbed place with fewer people traffic. Kittens feed on their mother’s milk. However, if the mother cat cannot nurse, you need to bottle-feed your pets with milk specially formulated for the newborn kittens. You may get a recommendation from your veterinarian on the most suitable milk brand. When bottle-feeding, give the bottle while lying on their side as if they feed on their mother. Do not bottle-feed a kitty on its back to avoid choking. Kittens wean from their mother at around eight weeks of age, at which you may already give your pet solid kitten food placed in a shallow bowl.

 

For more details your vet Tampa, FL is a valuable resource when it comes to your pet’s health and well-being.

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.

Exercising your Peruvian Guinea Pig

Did you know that your Peruvian guinea pig needs to be exercised on a routine basis just like other pets? Ask your vet for help to come up with ways to exercise your guinea pig and even suggest how long and how often he should be exercised. In general, it’s best for your Peruvian cavy to get as much exercise as possible while in his cage. In other words, buy him an appropriate size cage that will give him room to roam and play. Place toys, tunnels, and other objects in his cage that will help encourage him to move around. You can also set up a safe zone inside your home or in your yard where your guinea pig can be turned loose to roam around on his own. Always supervise your guinea pig to ensure his safety. You can always ask your vet Tampa, FL for a recommended time for your guinea pig to be outside his cage.

Heat And Spaying In Cats

 

At around six months old, female cats reach puberty, a period in which they can be “in heat” or ready to mate. Because of the hormonal changes that occur during the fertile period, a female cat in heat exhibits affectionate behavior, meows excessively, and grooms herself more often. The female cat also strongly desires to escape the house, especially if there are potential male suitors outside. A female cat can be in heat for several days within a year. Some pet owners have their female cats undergo spaying to prevent getting pregnant. Spaying is a surgical procedure that entirely removes the ovaries and uterus of a female cat. Should you decide to spay your cat, discuss this carefully with your pet clinic Tampa FL If spaying is not an option for you, ensure that all potential escape routes inside the house are closed, and try to distract your cat by keeping her busy with toys, games, and a lot of interactions.

Are Hamsters Social Creatures?

 

Some hamsters are social while others are not. It really depends on the type of hamster you have. If you’re not sure what kind of hamster or hamsters you own, ask your vet. Dwarf hamsters are extremely social creatures and love each other’s company. It’s recommended that you have at least two dwarf hamsters so that they have a playmate. Syrian hamsters, however, are not social at all. Syrian hamsters are extremely territorial and will fight for their space. It’s recommended that Syrian hamsters be introduced to one another before they are five weeks old or else you will not have a happy match. As for communicating, hamsters use body language and squeaks and squeals to “talk” with one another. High pitched squeaking may indicate your hamster is frightened. Yawning often communicates contentment more than exhaustion. Dwarf hamsters tend to cuddle. Learn more here or talk with your expert vet clinic Tampa, FL.

Feeding Wet Kitten Food VS. Dry Kitten Food

There are some nutritional advantages that wet cat food can offer over kibble or dry cat food. Cats are known for being finicky when it comes to their water intake, so giving them wet food (canned) can help keep them well-hydrated. Be sure to choose high quality canned kitten food to ensure that they contain wholesome ingredients in the form of name meat. The protein content must be higher than carbohydrates to satisfy the kitten’s needs for growth and development.

On the other hand, there are also benefits that kittens can get from dry food. Kibbles tend to be cheaper than canned kitten food and could be left in the food bowl for a longer period of time without fear of spoiling. Kibble can also be used to provide physical and mental stimulation by placing them inside treat dispensers.

If you have concerns about your pet’s diet and nutrition, consult your veterinarian Tampa FL.

Is your canine companion with you all the time?

You have a dog in your life who loves to spend time by your side. In fact, she is often right by your side. Why is this?

Your little fur ball needs to be able to enjoy her time in your care and she genuinely loves your company. She also depends on you for care and she understands that you are the person who looks after her. Staying by your side is not only to her benefit, but it also helps her feel at ease because of this. Your pet is a curious creature and needs to be able to check out new activities, and she knows that she’s more likely to do so when she is with you since the action in your home tends to follow you around. Your local pet clinic Tampa, FL can offer additional suggestions Or make an appointment here: https://baycrestanimalclinic.com/.

Ear Problems In Rabbits

Rabbits can have their share of ear problems, too. On top of the list are ear infections caused by bacteria or fungi, ear mites, ticks, and heat tilting.

Ear infection

Ear infections that go unchecked can lead to neurological damage.They can also cause problems of the upper respiratory tract. Thus, ear infections should be given prompt medical attention before complications can set in. Ear infections caused by yeast or fungi stimulates pus production inside the ear, leading to inflammation, and in sever cases, deafness.

Ear mites

Psoroptes cuniculi (rabbit ear mites) cause head-shaking and/or ear scratching in affected rabbits. The presence of crusty discharges, scabs, and wounds in the ears area also called cankers.

Ticks

Ticks are blood-sucking parasites. A heavy infestation can cause anemia. Ticks are also known to carry Lyme diseases and other tick-borne diseases.

Head tilting

Damage to the labyrinth of the ears, a portion of the rabbit’s inner ear can cause head tilting in rabbits. The condition may also be present in rabbits that don’t have a labyrinth.

Any symptoms that indicate a problem in the ears of rabbits should be checked by a vet Tampa, FL.