What Is Declawing And Why It Should Be Banned?

Declawing is a surgical procedure in which the claws of cats are permanently removed. There are cat owners who think that declawing is the ultimate solution to their cats’ scratching behaviour, but is it really a humane solution?

In most cases, declawing is performed for the benefit of the pet owners who want to get rid of their pets’ destructive behaviour. Without any claws, there won’t be any damage to furniture and other things in the home.  


During declawing surgery, the entire last bone of the toe is amputated at the first joint to permanently remove the claws of the cat. The procedure severs the muscles and tendons that exert control of the extension and retraction of the claws. There are also instances when, instead of removing the bone at the joint, the bone is cut through.  


If you have questions and concerns about your pet’s scratching behavior, do talk with your vet Lakewood Ranch, FL.

Urinary Tract Infections In Dogs Is A Common Cause Of Frequent Urination In Dogs

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common culprit for dogs urinating in small amounts with increasing frequency around the home. Most UTI cases in dogs occur in the lower part of the urinary tract, usually in the urinary bladder. UTIs are caused by bacteria and are treated with antibiotics. Affected dogs exhibit the following symptoms:

• Painful urination
• The dog may appear to strain in an effort to urinate but only small dribbles of urine are voided
• Increased frequency of urination
• Frequent urinary accidents in the house
• There may be blood-tinged urine 

Urinalysis is a basic test when it comes to diagnosing urinary tract infections. There may be a need to make a culture of the urine to determine the type of bacteria that is causing the infection so the appropriate antibiotic can be given. 

If your pet is showing signs of a potential urinary tract infection, make an appointment with your best veterinary center Lakewood Ranch, FL.

Do Cats Like the Ocean?

Yes, there are actually different cats that enjoy the ocean, the beach and playing in the water. If this sounds like your cat then you may be thinking of taking her to the beach to play. Before you go, be sure to look up the beach and make sure it is pet friendly. Some beaches may be dog friendly but not pet friendly while other beaches may not have a restriction on the type of pet. It’s better to check before you go. You may also find that there are beaches that will be open to animals during the fall and winter months, but not the spring and summer months when it’s the busiest for people. Just be sure to call ahead to your parks and wildlife center or go online to find out restrictions. In addition, make sure you take plenty of water, snacks, and bags to pick up after your cat. For more information, call your vets Goodyear, AZ.

Is Your Cat at Risk for FeLV?

You should assume that all cats are at risk for FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) in order to take the right precautions to keep your cat safe and well. For instance, your cat should be tested for FeLV routinely as well as treated with possible vaccines that may be available. It is important to understand that the virus is only in cats and it cannot be spread to dogs or humans. FeLV can cause anemia, lymphoma and a suppressed immune system in cats. The chances of your cat contracting FeLV are higher if your cat spends time outdoors since he may come in contact with an infected cat. FeLV can be transmitted through bodily fluids including blood and saliva. If your cat has FeLV then he should be kept separate from other cats in the home to avoid your well cats from getting FeLV and to avoid your FeLV cat from catching something. Click here to ask your veterinarians Litchfield Park, AZ for more information.

How are Heartworms Transmitted in Dogs like the Labrador?

Heartworm disease is disease involving large, slender worms invading a dog’s bloodstream and effecting the heart, lungs, etc. But how do these worms get inside your dog? The main way heartworms are transmitted is through mosquitoes. When a mosquito bites an infected animal, it picks up the larvae of heartworms through the blood. The next animal the mosquito bites then gets a deposit of the heartworm larvae right into the bloodstream. Research has found that it takes 10 to 14 days for the worms to become infective. It has also been found that heartworms can live for anywhere from 5 to 7 years in your dog. It’s very important to have your dog tested for heartworms annually and to have your dog on a heartworm prevention medication. You should also treat your yard and surrounding areas for mosquitoes with animal and human safe products. You can learn more by clicking here or contacting your veterinarians Goodyear, AZ.

Parrots and Their Curved Bills

Did you know that parrots have a curved bill or beak? This is not the same as a typical pointed beak that most birds have. Why the difference? The curved bill enables a parrot to climb trees and large shrubs. The parrot actually uses his curved heal to hook into the tree, so to speak, and pull himself up. The hook in the bill gives them a secure hold as they climb. A curved bill also enables parrots to eat their food better. For instance, they can open up seeds and nuts with the curve of their bill. It’s important to remember that parrots have this curved bill especially when you hold them. If the parrot is uncomfortable or even a bit nervous then he may grab hold of you with the curve of his bill and literally hook it into your skin. Talk to your vets Lexington, KY about the best way to hold your parrot.

Cleaning Your Cat’s Ears

Did you know that checking your cat’s ears and keeping them clean is part of taking care of your cat and providing for his overall health and wellness? A cat’s ears can get extremely dusty. They can also collect things like dust particles, bugs, dirt, etc. In the summer, the ears could get built up with gnats, wax can also build up as can dirt as previously mentioned. So what can you do? Check the ears regularly to ensure they are clean. If you find they are extremely dirty, call your vet. You should also check with your vet before cleaning the ears yourself. When cleaning the ears, use a vet approved liquid ear cleaner on a piece of cotton or gauze. Examples include mineral oil or hydrogen peroxide. Fold your cat’s ears back and wipe the dirt and wax from the outer ear. Do not go in the ear canal and call your experienced pet clinic Aurora CO if there’s any discharge or smell.