Local Value Veterinary

Category: Cats

  • Halloween Safety Tips

    Halloween Safety Tips

    Tips for Keeping your Pets Safe During Halloween

    Unusual activities, costumed visitors, anxiety, and fear can all make Halloween a nightmare for your pets. Whether your pets are prone to anxiety and fear or not, they like their daily routine, which when interrupted can cause them to feel agitated and uncomfortable. Here are some excellent tips for keeping your pets during Halloween.

    Never give your pets candies

    Regardless of how much fun you think it will be for your pets to participate in Halloween, you should never give them candies. All types of chocolate, specifically the dark or baking chocolate, can be lethal for cats and dogs. Chocolate poisoning symptoms include diarrhea, elevated heart rate, seizers, rapid breathing and vomiting. Also, xylitol, an artificial sweetener, can cause your dogs to have liver failure or other issues related to low blood sugar.

    Don’t Leave your pets outside during Halloween

    There are cases of vicious pranksters who injure, tease or even steal pets during Halloween. Black colored cats are more vulnerable to these cruelty-related pranks, so ensure that your pets are safely locked away indoors. 

    Keep your pets away from your front door

    While indoor is much better than staying outdoors during Halloween, your front door will likely be opened and closed constantly, with different visitors wearing strange costumes. Your pets may find that situation scary, resulting in unexpected aggression or escape attempts. Make sure you put your cat or dog away in a room far away from the door as possible to minimize stress.

    Don’t let your pets play with glow sticks

    Even though glow sticks are essential in keeping people safe during Halloween, your pet can easily chew one open. Fortunately, the liquid used in these devices is not toxic. If your pet bites into these glow sticks, offer them fresh water to clear out the material from the mouth.

    Keep all Halloween plants out of your pet’s reach

    Although your pet can safely eat small quantities of pumpkin and corn, ingesting moldy or uncooked Halloween display plants can cause huge problems. Your pet could get gastrointestinal upset or intestinal blockage when they swallow large pieces. 
    Avoid keeping lit items around pets

    When you are using any Halloween decorations that involve fireworks, candles or lanterns, ensure you place them out of easy access by your pets. It will prevent your pets from burning themselves and even causing a huge fire. The same also applies for any battery or electric-powered Halloween decorations. 

    Avoid dressing your pets in limiting costumes

    The pet costumes you choose must not restrict hearing, breathing ability, movement or eyesight. You should aim to make this process fun for your pet through positive reinforcement and treats.

    Lastly, ensure your pets have the proper IDs. Tags and collars are perfect for ensuring that they will be easily returned if they happen to get lost during Halloween. 

  • Cat Panting

    Cat Panting

    Cat Panting and Everything You Need to Know About it

    Panting is often a result of shortness of breath, especially after an exhausting activity. Unlike in other pets especially canines, cat panting is not common. However, your cat can pant after a tiring activity but the panting should only last for a short while.

    The animal should get back to its normal state after it has come down and rested. Persistent cat panting is a sign of a dysfunction of the respiratory system. If you notice abnormal panting in your pet it is vital that you pay more attention and even contact your veterinarian.

    Signs of Cat Panting

    1. Shortness of Breath– panting is usually accompanied with difficulty in breathing and your pet will breath heavily making noises in the process.

    The cat will have its elbows pointed away from the body with a stretched neck and also struggle to stand.

    In some instances, your pet may cough and even end up vomiting.

    Watch out for a change of color of the tongue. It usually turns red and the cat’s gum could also have a bluish or purplish color.

    What causes Cat Panting?

    Cardiomyopathy-which is an enlarged heart than the normal heart usually results in congestive heart failure. There is an accumulation of fluids in the lungs and chest since the heart cannot actively pump. This leads to rapid breathing and panting.

    1. Asthma – If you cat has this condition, you will notice difficulties in breathing that causes it to pant in an effort to get enough air. Asthma causes constriction of airways that connect to the lungs.

    2. Heartworms – When your cat is infested by these parasitic worms the blood vessels in the heart are affected and the entire cardiovascular system leading to respiratory complications.

    What is the Treatment of Cat Panting?

    If you notice any symptoms of abnormal panting in your cat, ensure that you immediately contact your veterinarian. The veterinarian will do a thorough examination of your pet through blood tests and X-rays to determine the root cause of the panting.

    1. Antibiotics – If the doctor finds bacterial infections, antibiotics are administered to treat the infection or inflammation.

    2. Blood transfusion is recommended in the case of a cat diagnosed with anemia

    3. If there is a presence of accumulated fluid, the fluid is drained by putting a needle into the chest to ensure that all the fluid has been removed.

    4. Cats that suffer from asthma are put on medication that will help them manage the condition and allow them to breathe normally.

    Conclusion

    Watch out for any signs that indicate abnormal panting in your cat and contact your veterinarian immediately.

    References: Catster, Pet Place, Mercola

     

  • Heart Disease in Pets

    Heart Disease in Pets

    Tips on Dealing with Heart Disease in Pets

    Finding out that your cat or dog is suffering from heart disease can be quite tough. Depending on how far the condition has advanced, your veterinarian may have limited treatment options. However, although they are no scientifically proven methods of preventing heart disease, experienced veterinarians recommend that you recognize the symptoms of this health problem early. An early diagnosis means that your vet will have enough time to create a good treatment plan to help your pet maintain a decent standard of life. 

    Heart Disease Symptoms in Dogs

    The symptoms of heart disease typically appear in puppies who have the condition from birth. In contrast, acquired heart problems show up with old age. In both cases, slowing down and lethargy are indicative of cardiac issues and not just orthopedic discomfort or arthritis. 

    As the health issue progresses to the heart failure stage, most dogs start coughing along with increased respiratory effort and rate. It is recommended to monitor your dog’s natural breathing rate by counting the number of times their chest rises up in one minute. Anything under 35 is normal, but if you notice a progressive increase in effort or the rate, then go to the vet for a checkup immediately.

    Heart Disease Symptoms in Cats

    According to researchers, cat owners have a hard time noticing if their pet’s behavior is indicative of a health problem until the disease has progressed much further. For instance, your cat may be displaying the normal laziness associated with cats or they could be lethargic due to heart disease. Nevertheless, heart disease in cats can cause lack of appetite, respiratory difficulty, and enhanced reclusiveness.

    The cat purring behavior makes it challenging to count their respiratory rate. However, you can still try and count how many breaths they take every minute while your cat is sleeping. Anything under 50 breaths every minute is normal.

    Are Specific Pet Breeds More Vulnerable to Heart Disease?

    Some dog breeds are more vulnerable to developing heart problems. Certain large dog breeds like Dobermans, Boxers, and Great Danes are likely to develop cardiac myopathy, which involves enlargement of heart muscles, thus affecting its capability of pumping blood. Poodles, Schnauzers, and Pomeranians are all susceptible to valve diseases. In contrast, various breeds like Cairns, Terriers, and Westies among many others do not tend to become affected with heart complications as compared to other dogs. 

    It is harder to make the same sweeping generalizations for cats since many people do not own purebred cats. Nevertheless, several breeds like Bengals, Maine Coons and Sphinxes are the most affected by genetic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. More scientific research is, however, necessary to understand the genetic causes of heart problems in cats. 

    Conclusion

    Early detection is critical to maintaining your pet’s optimal health even if they have heart disease. When the pet owner, a vet and a specialist intervene early on with the right medication, the dog or cat can live for years without experiencing fatal heart failure. 

    References: Pet MD, 2nd Chance, Pet Care Rx

     

     
     
     
  • Heart Disease in Pets

    Heart Disease in Pets

    Tips on Dealing with Heart Disease in Pets

    Finding out that your cat or dog is suffering from heart disease can be quite tough. Depending on how far the condition has advanced, your veterinarian may have limited treatment options. However, although they are no scientifically proven methods of preventing heart disease, experienced veterinarians recommend that you recognize the symptoms of this health problem early. An early diagnosis means that your vet will have enough time to create a good treatment plan to help your pet maintain a decent standard of life. 

    Heart Disease Symptoms in Dogs

    The symptoms of heart disease typically appear in puppies who have the condition from birth. In contrast, acquired heart problems show up with old age. In both cases, slowing down and lethargy are indicative of cardiac issues and not just orthopedic discomfort or arthritis. 

    As the health issue progresses to the heart failure stage, most dogs start coughing along with increased respiratory effort and rate. It is recommended to monitor your dog’s natural breathing rate by counting the number of times their chest rises up in one minute. Anything under 35 is normal, but if you notice a progressive increase in effort or the rate, then go to the vet for a checkup immediately.

    Heart Disease Symptoms in Cats

    According to researchers, cat owners have a hard time noticing if their pet’s behavior is indicative of a health problem until the disease has progressed much further. For instance, your cat may be displaying the normal laziness associated with cats or they could be lethargic due to heart disease. Nevertheless, heart disease in cats can cause lack of appetite, respiratory difficulty, and enhanced reclusiveness.

    The cat purring behavior makes it challenging to count their respiratory rate. However, you can still try and count how many breaths they take every minute while your cat is sleeping. Anything under 50 breaths every minute is normal.

    Are Specific Pet Breeds More Vulnerable to Heart Disease?

    Some dog breeds are more vulnerable to developing heart problems. Certain large dog breeds like Dobermans, Boxers, and Great Danes are likely to develop cardiac myopathy, which involves enlargement of heart muscles, thus affecting its capability of pumping blood. Poodles, Schnauzers, and Pomeranians are all susceptible to valve diseases. In contrast, various breeds like Cairns, Terriers, and Westies among many others do not tend to become affected with heart complications as compared to other dogs. 

    It is harder to make the same sweeping generalizations for cats since many people do not own purebred cats. Nevertheless, several breeds like Bengals, Maine Coons and Sphinxes are the most affected by genetic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. More scientific research is, however, necessary to understand the genetic causes of heart problems in cats. 

    Conclusion

    Early detection is critical to maintaining your pet’s optimal health even if they have heart disease. When the pet owner, a vet and a specialist intervene early on with the right medication, the dog or cat can live for years without experiencing fatal heart failure. 

    References: Pet MD, 2nd Chance, Pet Care Rx

     

     
     
     
  • Strange Cat Behaviors: What Do They Mean?

    Strange Cat Behaviors: What Do They Mean?

    There is no denying the fact that cats make great companions, but occasionally they do things that leave you baffled in complete confusion. Those strange cat quirks have been the subject of numerous cat videos shared on social media sites. If you are accustomed to dogs, then you will find cats’ communication, and interaction can be quite intriguing. It is these unique behaviors, like their love for sleep and affectionate head-butting, that makes them invaluable to their owners. Here is an explanation of those curious cat behaviors.

    Too much sleep

    Domestic cats love their napping sessions, and it may even seem like they have been genetically designed to sleep. Cats can sleep for up to 16 hours per day, which is helpful as it helps them to conserve energy. Most of the time, they are in a light sleep where they can wake up quickly since you will notice their ears twitching whenever they hear sounds.

    Staring at You

    There is nothing quite disconcerting as the unblinking eyes of your cat directly staring at you. Don’t worry; your cat is not trying out their mind control skills on you. The stare is usually because the cat wants to get fed or entice you into playing with them.

    Nonstop cries

    Some cats are more vocal, especially oriental and Siamese breeds. The unending cries could be that the cat once you to gain your attention for a snack or it could also signify illness. Trust your instincts and respond accordingly.

    Chewing on plastic

    If your cats like eating various strange items like plastic, wool blankets, and wiring, then it could be that they are suffering from pica. The pica may be due to medical disorders like gastrointestinal issues, or it may also arise from anxiety.

    Kneading

    The kneading behavior in cats traces back to when they were kittens, and they would start pressing on their mother’s tummy for stimulating milk flow. Cats also kneed when they are feeling content and relaxed. Kneading should not be an issue unless your cat has big claws that need to be trimmed down.

    Conclusion

    While some of these strange behaviors that your cat does are endearing or silly, others can become problematic. Although you should always try to address most of these common behavioral problems at home, don’t hesitate to contact your vet if you have further concerns about any odd cat behaviors.

    References: Pet Health Network, Readers Digest, ASPCA Pet Insurance
    Copyright: Local Value

     

  • Caring for your pet

    Caring for your pet

    Caring for your pet: Five Possible Tips to Try Out

    With our contemporary lifestyles, it may become a challenge to show your pet that you care. Although most would feel that they are not up to the problem of caring for the pet, there are simple ideas that go a long way in growing the care of the pet and keeping them healthy. Here are the essential ideas you can conduct as a pet parent

    Exercise and Playtime

    Just like us, pets also get dull from spending too much time indoors and as it stands, taking them out for routine morning or evening walks is a great way to reconnect with the animal and growing their company. If you are going for a morning jog, you can opt to take them along and help them exercise to and reduce excess weight.

    Grooming

    Whether owning a cat or dog, shedding fur is bound to happen and rather than have the negative experience of hairballs, and painful mats, you can always schedule grooming appointments at the pet boutique or purchase the grooming products. Getting the pet shampooed, combed and nails clipped would add an excellent touch to keeping them feeling fresh.

    Feed them Properly

    There is nothing that shows care as feeding your dog or cat in the right way and adequately. It is best to ensure the pet is sufficiently fed and receives the proper nutrients, free from toxic ingredients. For extra effort, you can purchase breed-specific foods that are ideal options for different pets. Overall, the market provides plenty of foods for all pets.

    Regular Check-ups

    Routine visits to the vet are necessarily the best option to indeed show your pet that you do care. Getting checks often would ensure the dog or cat is in excellent condition and not susceptible to health problems.

    Bonding Time

    With busy lifestyles and schedules, dogs and cats are often left second in consideration when it comes to spending time after a long day. Showing care would need you to chalk out a day or time in your day where it is nice to spend some alone time with the pet. That could mean lap time in your daily or weekly schedule.

    The best way to show love to your pets is to provide and offer the best for them regarding care. Still, involving the pet in your daily schedule is the best gift to keep your pet company and showing them you care.

    Sources: Health, One Green Planet, Science Direct, Pawster

     

  • Healthy and Hydrated Pets

    Healthy and Hydrated Pets

    Feeding your pet: How to Keep them Healthy and Hydrated

    With the warm weather upon us, it seems like a great time to get out and enjoy the sun while bonding outdoors. However, while the swimming, basking and hanging around outdoors may seem ideal for people, pets could have a hard time especially with issues such as heat, allergies, and bugs.

    Such a scenario necessitates the need to take safety precautions when it’s hot, whether you are traveling or just at home. With the following preventive care measures, you can get detect future heat problems and ascertain what is necessary to do depending on the condition.

    Dehydration signs

    • Generally, lethargy is the first sign of something wrong with the dog or cat. Some of the other symptoms frequently include
    • Decreased appetite due to the reduction in blood flow to the pet’s digestive tract, slowing down the process
    • Elevated breathing and heartbeat as the heart contracts and attempts to increase oxygen to the body tissues
    • Skin flexibility also indicates a level of dehydration with less skin flexibility evident from rigid and dry nose membrane and lack of the skin retaining the usual shape.
    • Water-seeking behavior is a definite indication of the pet’s need for water, and this can lead to the animal potentially drinking water from unfamiliar places.

    What you can do

    1. Consistent Supply of Fresh Water

    The pet hydration needs should be constant since the average dog or cat is said to need an ounce of water per a pound of body weight each day. It is, therefore, necessary to ensure there are water sources that make cold water available to drink whether if it’s indoors or outdoors during hot weather.

    2. Diet

    Making sure the pet is fully hydrated would mean focusing on changing the diet to suit more moist foods. Such a scenario would entail feeding the dog or cat rehydrated commercial feeds or home-prepared meals over the typical dry kibble.

    3. Vet Visit

    At times the heat may become unbearable for the pet, and in dire situations, any fever or health-related ailment would require professional help. You can set up a checkup for the pet whenever you feel the dehydration symptoms are becoming more evident than usual.

    Overall, these are simple precautions that could play an essential role in protecting the pets during the warm weather. As a matter of convenience, you can purchase pet insurance to cover your pet in any case of emergency or accident.

    Sources: AKCCHF, Animal Awareness, VCA Hospitals

     

  • Adopting a cat?

    Adopting a cat?

    Adopting a cat? Here are Five Guidelines to Consider

    Despite the cat becoming one of the most popular choices for adoption, there are overwhelming factors that go towards determining the approval of a cat breed. Here are essentials to look out for in case you are settling to adopt a cat as a pet.

    Preparing your Home

    Probably the first question to ask yourself is whether the residence is conducive enough to accommodate the new pet. Additionally, occupants of the home are important to consider. Therefore, this means if you are living in a full household with children and other pets when considering adopting a cat should get along with the rest of the home.

    Can the Pet be Afforded?

    Before making the option of bringing a new cat to your home, make sure there are adequate supplies and pet care that you will potentially need. The list of essentials usually comprises setting up a litter box, purchasing food, toys and establishing a comfortable spot. There is also the need to acquire some necessary items such as a food bowl, nail clippers, collar, ID tags, litter scope and water dish for starters

    Consider Time and Attention

    It is necessary to consider that taking care of the adopted pet may require time and if it were to happen that you leave on a trip, then this would mean going the adopted cat in someone else’s care. So, it would be wise to consider adjusting your daily regime to accommodate ample time and attention for your new furry friend.

    Learn on the shelter and cat breed

    Additionally, researching on the breeder before purchasing is also a wise move. Although there exist legitimate cat breeders, many of the cats from the pet shops or shelters do have behavioral or health problems due to poor breeding standards.

    Choose your new cat wisely

    Often shelter cats are known for picking their owners, as per the claims of past cat adopters. Still, you may have stronger feelings towards picking one or choosing between two cats. If you are in such a dilemma, it would be good to ask the shelter staff for more help.

    Overview

    Most of these factors are not particularly rocket science, and they are necessary for helping you answer the question as to whether you are truly ready to adopt a cat. All-in-all, if qualify to adopt then making the right choice is necessary since it means you are sharing your life.