Cat Dander And Allergies

For many years, it was assumed that the source of allergens in cats were their hair. But now it’s recognized that cat dander is the culprit. The dander’s light weight makes it easier to become airborne and be spread throughout the home. When examined under the microscope, cat dander is composed of dry skin of cats. The particles are about 1/10th of a dust mite’s size. The skin particles are not really the allergen but the factor that they contain which is known as Fed D1.  

Fel D1 is type of protein that is found in the sebaceous skin glands of cats, saliva, and urine. During grooming, the Fel D1 is spread on the cat’s body with their saliva. Studies have shown that Fel D1 production differ in cats. Cats t hat have not been spayed or neutered tend to produce more of the allergen. Intact male cats also produce more of Fel D1 compared to female cats. Some feline breeds also produce less of the allergen than other breeds of cats.  

If your cat suffers from persistent itching, make an appointment with your animal clinic Lakewood Ranch, FL so your pet can be examined and given appropriate treatment.

Causes Of Diabetes In Cats

Diabetes mellitus in cats is a condition that is characterized by the difficulty of the body to create or manage insulin, a hormone that is produced by the pancreas. Insulin is important for glucose metabolism. It converts sugar into a source of energy for the cells. Any disorder in the metabolism of sugar has a negative impact on the animal’s health and well-being. There are 2 types of diabetes that can affects cats -- Type 1, also known as insulin-dependent diabetes develops when the animal does not produce enough insulin; Type II is characterized by the inability of the cat’s body to process insulin in a correct manner. There are also various factors that can increase a cat’s risk to developing diabetes, such as genetics, being overweight or obese, adverse reaction to certain medications, and certain medical conditions.  

If your pet has been diagnosed with diabetes, ask your veterinarian Leesburg, VA regarding the various treatment options that are available for your pet. 

Feeding Golden Retrievers

Golden retrievers are among the smartest dog breeds. Their friendly nature and temperament make them great pets for families with kids. These dogs are very active and have big appetites. As they go from one lifestage to the next, their dietary requirements also change significantly. Growing Golden retriever puppies need a complete and balanced diet that contains a high amount of protein to support body growth and development. They will also benefit from omega 3- and omega-6 essential fatty acids for strong bones and joints. Antioxidants help boost their immune system. For adult golden retrievers, their nutritional requirement include protein to improve bone density and endurance, carbohydrates as a ready source of energy, fats for hair coat health, and essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Senior golden retrievers will need a low-calorie diet because they are not as active as they used to. The will thrive with a diet that is low in calories, has moderate protein and fat content, low carbohydrate content, but with high fiber content. They will also benefit from joint supplements, such as chondroitin and glucosamine, for joint health and alleviate signs of joint problems. 

Your pet will benefit from regular wellness checks at an animal hospital Leesburg, VA.

Causes Of Dry Skin In Cats

Dry skin in cats is often a red flag that signifies an underlying health issue. Identifying and treating this primary problem can significantly improve the skin’s health. The most common causes of dry skin in cats include:

• Allergy reactions - Cats are prone to allergic reactions that are triggered by exposure to certain allergens in the environment, such as pollen, molds, dander, a new grooming product, or bedding material.

• Poor diet - Cats benefit from a premium quality diet that is appropriate for their lifestage. It contains the necessary nutrients including vitamins and minerals that are essential to skin health. Dry skin can be an important symptom of a nutritional deficiency.

• Weather changes - When cold weather sets in, indoor heating can make the skin dry.

• Parasites - Flea infestation is an important cause of dry skin in cats. This is also true with lice, mites, yeast infections (such as ringworm),

• Serious healht issues - Hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, and heart problems are common in older cats. Dry skin is often an early sign of these problems.

Considering that dry skin can be a sign of an underlying health issue, it is recommended that you set an appointment with your veterinary clinic Ashburn, VA sooner rather than later. For more details, set an appointment here: https://lansdowneanimalhospital.com

Skin Ulcers In Cats And Dogs

When it comes to skin ulcers, an early symptom of the problem is the formation of crusty areas on the animal’s skin, foot, or nose. The lesions usually start out small and develop to become more extensive lesions that may open, drain, and turn into skin crusts. Hair loss may be preset and the skin’s surface may appear red and oozing. Skin ulcers may soon develop. 

Considering that there are many possible conditions that cause skin ulceration in dogs, there is a need to determine the underlying cause so the appropriate treatment can be given immediately. After a thorough examination, the skin lesions will have to be evaluated by a veterinarian Plano, TX. There may be a need for other diagnostic steps or procedures, such as skin cytology to examine skin scrapings under the microscope. A skin biopsy, bacterial or fungal culture, complete blood testing, and other laboratory procedures may also be indicated if needed. For more details, visit this link: https://planotxvets.com/

Signs of Gingivitis in Dogs

 

Gingivitis is one of the first signs of gum disease or periodontal disease in humans and animals. Gingivitis often appears in dogs in the form of very bad breath that doesn’t come and go. This bad breath is called Halitosis, a medical condition referring to extremely bad breath. You should notify your vet if your dog has bad breath. Other signs of gingivitis may also include trouble chewing or eating, problems drinking, and inflammation around the gums and tooth line. This symptoms should also be reported to your veterinarian.  Studies show that more than 80 percent of pets ages three years and older develop gingivitis or some other form of gum disease in their lifetime. Your vet can give your dog a dental exam, review the teeth and gums and make recommendations for treatment. Treatment often includes a professional cleaning in which your dog is under sedation. Talk to your vets Lakeville, MN to learn more.

Set an appointment here: https://burnsvillevet.com/.

Preparing Your Cat for a Show

Are you prepping your cat to show for the first time? It can be a little nerve racking to try and figure out how to enter a show and prepare for a show much less actually show up on show day and be where you’re supposed to be at the right time and place. Here are some tips for showing: First, consider enlisting the help of fellow cat owners and show competitors. You can learn a lot from one another and help each other out when it comes to last minute preparations. Talk with CFA members to find out about requirements and regulations. For instance, your cat will need a decorated carrier with show curtains, etc. Do you have these parts of the showcase ready? If not, talk to one of the CFA members or judges ahead of time. Do your best to prep for the show and to be on time. For assistance with paperwork, give your animal hospital Roanoke, VA a call.