British Shorthairs and Obesity

 

If you own a cat or have owned a cat, then you’re probably familiar with a cat’s eating habits. Some cats like to eat their meals plus treats and snack in between. There’s nothing wrong with this unless your cat is eating too much. It’s important to be mindful of what you’re feeding your British Shorthair in order to prevent extra snacks turning into extra pounds or even extreme weight gain. Your vet can weigh your cat and let you know if his weight is low, high, or average. You can also do a quick check at home, although it will not be a professional analysis. As a general rule, if you can easily see or feel the British Shorthair’s rib bones then he is too thin. If you cannot feel the rib bones beneath a layer of fat then he may be overweight. Talk to your vets Fredericksburg, TX about your cat’s ideal weight. Click here to know more.

Black Widow Spider Bite in Dogs Like Black Labradors

It’s a good idea to always give your dog a check over after he’s been outdoors. If you notice an unidentifiable bite on his body that appears to be inflamed or even infected, call your vet. It may be a harmless insect bite or it could be a spider bite. Spider bites are hard to identify by sight; however, symptoms of spider bites such as a bite from a black widow are very evident. For instance, your Black Lab may present symptoms such as muscle tremors, cramping, abdominal rigidity, severe pain in the back, chest or abdomen, respiratory problems, increased blood pressure, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. Some dogs may show no symptoms at all while younger or older dogs are at a higher risk. Treatment includes hospitalization for supportive care, anti-venom drugs, and monitoring. Side effects from the poisonous bite could last for several months. Call your animal hospital Fredericksburg TX if your dog has these symptoms.

Furniture and Cats Like the American Bobtail

 

Does your American Bobtail or other breed feline constantly scratch or claw at the walls, curtains, furniture, and other parts of your home? If so, then she might be trying to tell you something. Some cats will scratch the furniture out of boredom. Talk with your local vet to find out ways to help stop your American Bobtail’s constant scratching or clawing. If your American Bobtail is constantly clawing at household items, you may need to provide her with additional toys or even a scratching post to keep her busy. In addition, make sure your American Bobtail is getting plenty of exercise, eating appropriate food, and staying hydrated. Also ask yourself if anything in the American Bobtail’s routine has changed. If so, find a way to make it a smoother transition or change it back as this may also contribute to her clawing and scratching. Contact your vet Sarasota, FL for more details. Or click this site.

Diagnosing Gingivitis in Canines Like the Boxer

 

Boxers and other canines can be prone to different dental disease including those like gingivitis. If your Boxer has bad breath or appears to be having trouble chewing or eating, talk to your vet about scheduling an exam. Gingivitis is usually the culprit of bad breath. This disease involves inflammation, redness and swelling of the gums due to the build-up of plaque, which is food or other debris. Only your vet can tell you if your Boxer has gingivitis. Your vet will need to perform a physical exam on your Boxer and will most likely ask you for a detailed history of your Boxer’s overall health. Be prepared to describe any symptoms your Boxer may be experiencing including when the symptoms appeared and how long they last. Your vet may also want to know what type of food your Boxer eats and whether or not you clean your Boxer’s teeth. Consult with your animal hospital Lakewood Ranch, FL for follow up. Learn more here.

Why It’s Important To De-Sex Your Cat

De-sexing refers to the surgical removal of the cat’s physical reproductive organs. For male cats, the procedure is called neutering. For females, the procedure is called spaying. Cats can reproduce easily, so it’s best to remove the reproductive organs early on. 

A female cat is reproductive at six months. If you don't want your pet cat to get pregnant, you should have her spayed when she turns six months old. This is also the perfect time to de-sex her before she acquires hormone-fueled behaviors such as spray marking or wandering.

On the other hand, an intact male cat can get into trouble as he looks for a mate. When he roams the community to search for a female cat in heat, he may get in fights with other dominant cats. If he gets wounded, he might develop abscesses and infections. And in more serious cases, your pet cat might acquire immunodeficiency virus and other health problems. Get your male cat neutered to avoid these problems.

You can ask your professional animal hospital Lewisville TX for advice regarding neutering/ spaying your pet cat.

Keeping Essentials Oils Away from Pet Cats

Humans use essential oils because of their aromatherapy effects. However, you should keep essential oils away from your pet cat as they cause poisoning. The liver of cats lacks certain enzymes that can break down essential oil components. Thus, if your cat inhales or ingests essential oils, the effects can be fatal. Kittens, senior cats, and those with liver and respiratory illnesses are most vulnerable to essential oil poisoning. Always keep essential oils secure inside a cabinet. Counters and tables are not ideal spots to place reed diffusers, and liquid potpourri pots as cats love to jump to and from high spaces. If you will be using a room spray, ensure that your cat is not around to prevent inhalation or licking of airborne particles that may get in contact with its fur. If you apply essential oils to your skin, do not let your cat stay beside you to prevent any contact.  

Any sign of illness displayed by your pet should prompt a visit to your animal hospital Lewisville, TX.

Sunburn in Siamese Cats

 

Dogs and cats can get sunburn. Siamese cats are prone to sunburn on areas of skin that are not covered by fur. If you suspect your Siamese cat has a sunburn or irritated skin, please call your vetfor treatment options. Cats with white ears are particularly prone to getting sunburn on the tips or edges of their ears. If approved by your vet, a sunscreen containing titanium dioxide as the active ingredient should be used on areas of your Siamese cat that are exposed to the sun. Some cats may even need to have their body covered with a t-shirt whether it’s a people t-shirt made to fit or a cat-sized shirt. The best way to prevent sunburn is to keep your Siamese cat covered or inside. If your Siamese cat is out, make sure he has access to shade. Consult with your vets Ashburn, VA to learn more.