Plague In Cats

 

The bacterial species Yersinia pestis has already caused three (3) types of plague in cats. The most recent plague reported took place in the US, in the state of Colorado back in 2017 when a cat got infected by the bacteria. Although a plague can be life-threatening, with prompt treatment, its serious complications can be averted.

Transmission of the plague often occurs through the bite of an infected flea. These infected fleas will usually feed on rodents which serve as reservoirs of the disease. Humans can acquire the bacterial species if bitten by a rodent flea carrying the plague. Another way that humans get infected by the plague bacterium is when handling tissues and body fluids of a plague-infected animal.       

A cat’s predatory habits increase its chances of acquiring the disease. Hunting for its prey in the wilderness places it at risk of contracting the bacterium by feasting on plague-infected animals. Veterinarians advise cat owners to keep their cats indoors to protect them from the plague. Since fleas transmit the plague, establishing a flea preventive program can ensure protection for pet cats all year-round.

Any sign of illness should be brought to the attention of your animal hospital Portland OR.

Why Cats Eat Grass

 

Cats that are lacking in vitamins may chew grass to complement their food intake. Grass can irritate the upper part of the digestive tract and trigger the vomit reflex. This may make cats in some cases to throw up, but it doesn't apply to all cats.  

There is no definitive data, however, some theories have been pointing to different directions. One theory surmises that cats need the folic acid and fiber contained in the grass. Folic acid is an essential nutrient for cats which can help increase their oxygen saturation. Fiber on the other hand helps in stomach concerns and better bowel movements. Others point to niacin, which helps in inflammation, weight reduction, appetite, and diarrhea. Unfortunately, cat physiology cannot produce niacin and as such, they need to source it externally.  

It's best to consult your professional animal hospital Leesburg VA for your cat's changes in behavior and health concerns.

Reasons Why A Mutt Makes An Ideal Pet

Moggies or mutts are the names used to call the offspring of purebred dogs from different breeds. Crossbred dogs have genetic advantages over purebred ones as they are not predisposed to abnormalities a purebred dog might have. Buying from a reputable breeder is of paramount importance if you want to have a purebred puppy. Sometimes a breeder may have a warranty if ever there are genetic defects found in your dog but will you be willing to return a dog you have bonded with for a specific period of time?

Mixed breed dogs are less prone to have hereditary problems than purebred ones. While a mutt can have a defective gene from one of his parents, it can be masked over by the dominant gene from the other parent and usually recessive.

Bring your new pet to a vet clinic Ashburn VA for consultation.

Sensitive Stomachs In Dogs

Dogs can have a digestive system that is sensitive just like humans do. A dog with a sensitive digestive system can have an irritated or upset stomach from time to time. You need to be careful and mindful when you have a dog like this because they can suffer heavily (from let's say, a digestive upset or something much worse) even with a minor change in their diet. The question is: how would you know if your beloved pet is one of those with a sensitive digestive system? You need to pay serious attention so you can detect digestive problems quite easily. For instance, there are several common symptoms of a mild digestive upset such as recurring but intermittent diarrhea, redundant flatulence or gassiness, as well as infrequent vomiting. Your dog will show these symptoms as soon as a suspected treat or food is given to him. So you need to watch carefully.

Any sign of illness should be brought to the attention of your professional vet Jacksonville, FL. 

Senior Cats Need More Care And Attention

Your senior cat will inevitably reach his twilight years and with this comes potential challenges throughout its life. During this important period, you must be ready and willing to provide the right attention and care to your beloved furry feline friend. Also, constant visits to your preferred vet for regular or annual checkups must be met during this period in time. Knowing and observing your beloved cat's behavior will also allow you to act and make a robust decision to go bring him to the vet or the nearest animal clinic whenever there is a need to do so. At this stage, whatever grooming you do to your senior cat should be a lot more than just the simple brushing of the hair. You should also look for injuries, bumps, scrapes, or lumps regularly. Do not ever forget to check his gums as well as teeth.

Your senior pet will benefit from more visits to your local animal hospital Jacksonville FL.

Keeping Your Cat Indoors

 

Kitties are very curious, and they really enjoy exploring things. It's no surprise that many of them enjoy going outdoors. However, this can be dangerous. Cats can get into a lot of trouble when they are out and about! Cars, weather, However, it can be a bit tricky trying to keep a cat that's determined to get outdoors inside.

Making your home fun and interesting for your kitty will go a long way here. Set out pet-safe plants for your feline pal, and take time to play with her every day. This will help her burn off some of that crazy kitty energy. It's also a good idea to give your pet a good window seat, where she can sit and watch birds and squirrels. Even former strays can become happy indoor cats with time, love, and patience.

Your vet clinic Carolina Forest, SC can give you more pointers on how to keep your cat content indoors. Make an appointment today!

Sunburn In Horses

 

Exposure to too much ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause sunburn in horses. And just like humans, sunburn in horses can be extremely painful. The summer season and the burning rays of the sun can put your horse at risk and can develop several skin conditions ranging from mild to worse. A hot summer season can bring about the pink and peeling nose in horses. Back sunburn can cause severe pain for your horse and putting a saddle on top of it can be very uncomfortable to a horse. Gray horses or pintos are prone to sunburn due to their white and pink noses. Horses that have a fine hair coat and have pinkish skin on their backs are also susceptible to sunburn. Several areas such as their ear tip, face, and white areas of the legs are at a higher risk of developing sunburn

Other factors that can affect a horse's susceptibility to sunburn include foods that they eat and certain medications that may be applied to their skin for certain conditions. Saint John’s Wort is one type of plant that brings about photosensitivity in your animal.

Any sign of skin and/or coat problem should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian care Derby.