Causes Of Bloat In Dogs

While experts are yet to determine the definite cause of bloat in dogs, pet owners and vets alike have some observations as to what could trigger this medical condition in dogs. Since this is a serious and potentially fatal condition, pet owners like you should be aware of the common reasons that may cause bloat in your dog.

It has also been said that a big risk factor for bloat in dogs is their breed. Dog breeds of the larger size have wider, and deeper chests, making them more vulnerable to this condition.

Some of the dog breeds are the following:

●St. Bernard

●Standard poodle

●Rottweiler

●Weimaraner

●Irish Setter

●Gordon Setter

According to experts, the risk of developing bloat also depends on the dog’s age and physical activity. In most cases, older dogs are no longer capable of doing vigorous exercises which may cause issues in their digestion.

If your pet is showing any signs of bloat, bring your pet to the nearest animal hospital Plano, TX. 

Pros Of Soaking Dog Kibble

 

The sight of soaked kibble sometimes looks disgusting that is why some dog owners avoid feeding their dogs with soaked food as much as possible. However, due to the benefits that can be gained from soaking dog food, more and more dog owners are giving it a shot.

Below are some reasons why soaking kibble is beneficial to your dog:

●It makes your dog slow down when eating. Some dogs tend to eat fast, but because soaked kibble is chewy and soft, they do not have a choice but to chew their food. In turn, it makes them less prone to indigestion, vomiting, and bowel problems.

●The food’s nutrients are absorbed by the body quickly. Since soaked kibble is soft, dogs can easily eat it and the nutritional content of the food is also easily absorbed by the body.

●Dog food is enjoyable to eat. Your dog will enjoy eating because he will not have difficulty biting or chewing his food. This also makes him avoid swallowing whole kibble pieces. To know more about dog care, visit veterinarian Plano TX.

Prey-Like Toys For Cats

Cats have this reputation as low maintenance pets. Unfortunately, this idea perpetuated the belief that pet cats do not require attention as much as pet dogs do.  But it is a fact that cats also require mental and physical stimulation to do well.  Playtime is included in this stimulation, especially with toys that engage your cat.  Selecting the proper feline-friendly toys can contribute to ensuring that your cat is content, well-adjusted, and happy.

Try getting toys that are manufactured from natural materials.  Materials like synthetic fur, feathers, and wool are similar to the feel and look of true prey animals.  Check that the playthings are made properly, that there are no pieces that come loose and get swallowed by your pet.  Try not to get any toys that have decorations glued on them.

Fishing pole-type toys and interactive wands are some of the most appropriate toys for your cat.  Toys with this kind of interaction promote your pet’s hunting instinct thus allowing your pet to enjoy playtime together with you.

Puzzle-type toys are also a smarter way to keep your cat engaged when you cannot be present to play with her.  These are designed to have treats inside and then challenge your cat to fish out the kitty-treat using different ways.

If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s behavior,  don’t hesitate to contact your animal clinic Plano, TX.

Administering Pills to your Canine Companion

Getting your canine companion to take a pill can be a lot of work. Some dogs simply don’t want to swallow a pill even if you hide it in a piece of food or in a pill treat pocket. If your pup has to take a pill, ask the vet to show you the best way to administer the pill. There are devices that are like syringes in which you place the pill then place the device in your dogs mouth and pop the pill into the back of the mouth. You can also open your dog’s mouth and place the pill on the tongue. The trick is to gently hold your dog’s mouth shut and give a slight tilt up. Massage the cheeks and even blow gently in the dog’s face to get him to swallow. For more tips, call your Coit Hedgcoxe Animal Hospital.

Finding a Reliable Cat Sitter

If you are going to be gone from home more than a couple of days then you should consider hiring someone to come in and check on your cat. Finding a reliable cat sitter can be difficult if you don’t have a regular sitter on call. Start the search by asking friends, family and fellow cat owners who they use as a pet sitter. Contact your veterinarian, groomer or boarding facility and ask for recommendations or referrals. When contacting the potential candidate, ask for work history and references. Make sure you call the references and ask about the person’s character, disposition and history with animals. Meet the individual outside of the home for an interview. Only bring the person to your home if you’re sure they will do well. Have the individual meet your cat ahead of time too. For more tips, call your veterinarians Plano, TX.

Why You Should Leave Wiggle Room in Your Cat’s Routine

Developing a routine with your cat is part of building a relationship and bond with your cat. You eat meals together, take walks and exercise together, you may even have a little routine that you do before leaving for work. This is great and it helps build stability for your cat. However, sticking to a precise routine and schedule all of the time can also create stress and anxiety. What if you’re sick one morning and you can’t eat together. Will your cat decide not to eat? What if you’re late for work and skip the goodbye routine? Your cat may panic or become anxious. If you don’t arrive home at the same time every day your cat could become upset or even mad and tear stuff up. Leave wiggle room and don’t keep things so set that there’s no room for a detour every now and again. Talk to your veterinarians Plano, TX for more tips.

Helping your cat enjoy playtime

You have a cat in your life who you love very much and you want to make sure you are able to offer her the best playtime has to offer. How can you help make this happen?

Your little fur ball needs to be able to enjoy herself when it’s time to play, and she will need the appropriate space in order to do this. Think about what you are able to offer her within your home and make sure she has some toys that will work well within your living space. Offer her different options so she can enjoy herself no matter what mood she’s in, and make a point to offer her lots of companionship during this time as well. This will help encourage her to try new things and allow her to socialize in addition to playing. Your local pet clinic Plano, TX can offer additional advice.