Bathing Cats: Is It OK?

 

Cats don’t give out a distinct smell now and then. They are unlike your pet dogs that need to be given a bath often. In fact, some pet owners think that a cat only needs to take a bath when it begins to smell bad. However, cats will benefit if they get a bath often to get rid of the mites that might be present in their ears. These pests are itchy and will cause your pet cat to continue scratching its ear to feel comfortable. But continuously scratching can irritate their ears and might cause injury.

A young cat can easily scratch its ears because it is flexible. However, it becomes less flexible as it grows older. Cats might be unable to reach certain parts of their body because of arthritis or other issues. So, it’s really important to regularly bathe your cat regardless of its age.

If you have concerns about your pet’s health and/or behavior, contact your animal hospital New Orleans, LA sooner rather than later.

Cats and Yarn

 

Have you ever watched cartoons or read a comic strip about a cat that loves to play with yarn or other types of string? This is a pretty common misconception when it comes to cats. Many of us have grown up assuming cats can play with yarn but it’s not actually safe for them. Here’s why. In general, most cats enjoy playing with balls of yarn and string because of the texture and movement of the material. However, many experts recommend that you do not allow your Maine Coon or any other cat play with a ball of yarn unless he is supervised. Yarn can be dangerous for cats both young and old. If digested, the yarn can create a blockage in the cat’s throat or intestines. Your cat can also get entangled in the yarn or string and accidentally strangle himself. If your cat swallows string or yarn call your vets Davie, FL immediately. Schedule an appointment today!

Proper Disposal Of Cat Litter Is Very Important

 

Cats are fussy creatures. Thus, you must always make sure to maintain their homes as well as their litter box. It is crucial that you properly dispose of the litter to avoid health and environmental hazards. Cat parents must know the type of litter inside. Through this, determining the disposal method will be easy. It is best to dispose of the litter properly to avoid complications to animals and humans. Contemplating over a few significant components will help you think of a systematized process to discard kitty litter.  Owners must also consider factors that would affect both the environment and humans. Such factors could include hygiene issues, plumbing systems, and the environment. Owners must pick a disposal method that will be safe, easy, and convenient. Items such as litter scoops, surgical masks, and mini plastic bags are the tools in disposing of the litter.  Masks will block dust and other particles.

Any change in your pet’s litter habits should require a visit to your animal hospital Lewisville TX.

What To Do If You Think Your Cat Has Eaten Something Bad

 

Most of us are familiar with the expression “curiosity killed the cat” which precisely captures the fact that a cat’s curiosity can often lead them into all sorts of trouble. Cats will stick their noses and claw their paws into anything that will catch their attention. This inevitably places them in harm’s way and difficult situations. Unlike dogs, cats have heightened sensitivity to some of these substances. Several substances are considered toxic to cats such as medications, xylitol found in candies, lawn or garden products, and coolants are all harmful to cats. It’s also important to have your household renovated to be cat-proofed. Survey your household’s surroundings by imitating your pet cats and getting down on the ground on all fours to see from your pet’s point of view. Carefully store and keep harmful chemicals or products inside containers or cabinets that are out of reach to your curious cats. Rush your pet to a vets Virginia Beach, VA when it presents with signs and symptoms of poisoning from a suspected chemical exposure.

African Pygmy Hedgehog Health Issues

 

Like other pet animals, African pygmy hedgehogs also suffer from health issues. One of the most common problems is obesity. Hedgehogs become obese if they do not get adequate physical activity. Overweight hedgehogs usually have difficulty with mobility. Obesity also causes the development of severe illnesses. Obese pets require a balanced and healthy diet and regular exercise. Mite infestation affects hedgehogs, which causes itching, skin irritations, and quill loss. Regular cleaning of the enclosure helps the prevention of mites. Respiratory infections are also common in hedgehogs, particularly pneumonia. Affected hedgehogs display symptoms like sneezing, coughing, weakness, and loss of appetite. Pet owners should bring hedgehogs with respiratory problems to the veterinarian for treatment. Another common health issue in hedgehogs is the Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WBS), a genetic condition in which a hedgehog wobbles as it struggles to stand still. WBS progresses to paralysis with no known cure. Pet owners should regularly bring their hedgehogs to a professional veterinarian  Dahlonega GA for routine checkups.

How to Give Your Dog His Pill

 

It’s safe to say that at one point or another, you’ll need to give your dog medication in pill form. And that can often be easier said than done. Our canine friends don’t usually like taking pills because of their bitter taste. Here are some tips to give your dog a pill successfully: 

● Hide the pill in food. Try pushing it into a glob of wet dog food or wrapping it in a bit of deli meat. Your dog might scarf down the morsel without realizing there was medicine inside. 

● Crush or grind the pill. Then, you can sprinkle it over Fido’s meals. Always ask your vet before doing this, though, because it could render medicine ineffective.

● Administer it manually. Open your dog’s jaws and put the pill as far back on the tongue as possible. Close the jaws and stroke Fido’s throat to stimulate swallowing.

Consult your veterinarian Burlington, ON for more advice.

Help Your Cat Have Fewer Hairballs

 

Hairballs are a part of life for most cats. And unless they’re happening frequently, they’re not much cause for concern. That doesn’t mean they’re very pleasant, though! Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to help your cat experience fewer hairballs. 

First, brush your cat regularly. This removes a lot of loose fur from Fluffy’s coat. Since hairballs happen because your cat swallows a lot of her own hair while grooming, getting rid of that loose hair is a good way to cut down on hairball production. It’s also important to feed your cat a high-quality diet. When your pet gets the proper nutrition, her skin and fur stay healthy and she experiences less shedding. That means fewer hairballs! Ask your vet about a hairball-specific formula if your cat produces an excessive amount of hairballs. 

Consult your veterinary clinic Dutchess County, NY for more insights into your cat’s hairballs.