Strong Territorial Instincts In Cats

Furry felines are unique animal species that possess various characteristics. One of the extraordinary behaviors of cats has something to do with their territorial instinct.

These animals are known to develop a strong bond with their living environment, having a strong tendency to “mark” it. When the cats “mark” their territories, it represents their hunting territory to prevent conflicts with other felines. How do cats mark territories? Here are some steps they do their markings through their scents:

• Facial glands
• Urine
• Feces
• Anal glands

The territory of a cat is composed of several places, including a den or a core area where she plays, eats, or sleeps. Outside of this core area is the hunting station of the cat where she roams around and explores.

A cat may feel threatened when an outside feline tries to enter her territory. This situation is where growling, hissing and staring start between two felines.

Any concerns you may have about your pet’s health and/or behavior should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian Middletown, DE.

Tips On Handling Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are living creatures that need care and attention. Like other living beings, these tiny, adorable-looking species have emotions and feelings too. Thus, when you plan to own two or three of them, prepare yourself to give them the love they deserve. 

You can show them you care by handling them properly. Here are the general guidelines you must follow:

• Remain quiet and respect your new pets when handling them.
• When other humans try to hold your cavies, be there to supervise.
• Allow your cavies to come to you by themselves, and then pick them up by placing your hand under their bellies.
• Avoid crunching their legs. Let them hang onto your hand.
• Place them near your chest so they can feel secure. You can gently pet them using your other hand.

Do these things while still sitting. When both of you are comfortable and have been accustomed to doing these properly you take it to the next level. You may begin to stand and walk around while holding them.

A sudden change in your pet’s behavior should warrant a call to your animal medical clinic Middletown, DE. Click here to set an appointment.

Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs Like the Irish Setter

 

Different breeds have different health conditions that are commonly associated with them. For instance, some Irish Setters have been known to develop Degenerative Myelopathy (DM).  DM is an incurable disease of the nerves and spinal cord. This disease can lead to the loss of mobility and numbness or loss of feeling in the legs. Some experts have compared it with ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease in humans. DM is considered to be a chronic, progressive, degenerative disease that leads to eventual paralysis. Signs or symptoms of the disease usually appear later in life in most Irish Setters and affects the hind limbs causing a decrease in mobility. Although there is no set treatment for this disease, some owners have found various types of physical therapy to help prolong quality of life. If your Irish Setter has been diagnosed with DM, talk with your vet Middletown DE, the Galena Animal Medical Clinic to learn more about treatment options.

Allergies in Boxers

Some canines, like the Boxer, can get allergies in similar ways to people. Spring and summer usually means an increase in allergies in the air and surrounding environment. If you notice your Boxer sneezing, scratching at his snooze, wheezing, or scratching at watery eyes then you should call your vet. Your Boxer may have allergies. Allergies are generally common in dogs of all breeds no matter their age. In fact, most dogs like the Boxer will start to show signs of allergies at about six months of age. Other dogs may not show any signs of allergies until they turn two or older. Common symptoms of allergies include weepy or water eyes, itching of the skin, coughing, sneezing, discharge from the eyes or nose, and in some cases digestive system upset resulting in vomiting or diarrhea. Call your vet clinic Middletown DE if you think your dog may have allergies.

Dry Skin Syndrome in Keeshonds

 

Dogs have been known to develop dry eyes due to allergies, weather, or the environment in general. If your Keeshond appears to have red or irritated eyes, give your veterinarian a call. Your Keeshond’s irritated eyes could be from a variety of things in which your vet will need to exam his eyes and possibly run tests.  The medical term for dry eyes in dogs is Keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS. Dry eyes can be caused by weather or allergies, but they can also be caused by an immune-mediated disease, systemic diseases such as canine distemper virus, medications, or hypothyroidism. Dry eye can develop in dogs of all breeds, but is especially common in breeds such as the American Cocker Spaniel, Bloodhound, Boston terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, English bulldog, English Springer spaniel, etc. Consult with your vet Middletown, DE regarding treatment options including medicated eye drops. Visit https://www.galenaanimal.com/ to learn more.

Vaccinating your Finch

If you’ve recently purchased a Finch, check with the former owner or pet store associate to find out if the bird has received any vaccinations. As with dogs and cats, vaccines differ from region to region. In general, the only vaccine that birds need is the Polyomavirus vaccine. The Polyomavirus is a virus that can affect a bird’s organs and other parts of its body. Baby birds are the most susceptible to this virus and rarely survive. The vaccination schedule should be given to baby birds at five to seven weeks of age. Juvenile and adult birds can be infected by the virus, but are most often able to overcome the virus and make a full recovery. It’s important to keep infected birds separated as the virus can easily spread. Click for more information or give your vets Middletown, DE a call for additional assistance and details.

My American Curl Cat is Afraid of Thunder

 

If your cat is anxious, scared, or in a panic during thunder storm stalk to your vet about ways to keep her calm. While most cats appear to be brave and independent on a daily basis, there are still times when they get scared just like dogs and people. A common fear for cats is the sound of thunder and even bright flashing lightning. Your American Curl may meow excessively, pace, or hide during a storm. If she does this, do not pick her up or cuddle her. Your vet may suggest that this action will encourage your American Curl’s anxiety instead of helping to calm her. Instead, reward her calm behavior with little treats or snacks on a routine basis. When a storm hits, talk to your American Curl in a soothing tone and then reward her for calming down. Contact your vets Middletown DE for additional tips.