Showing posts with label Cat Care. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 19, 2017
4 Reasons Life Stage Diets Help Improve Cat Health : Your Pet Doctor
Balanced and complete nutrition is important for any animal. However, the nutritional needs will vary depending on the cat's life stage. For instance, the nutritional needs of a kitten are much different than the needs of an adult cat that leads a sedentary life. Conversely, as our cats age, their nutritional needs may change again.
Here are four reasons to make sure that your pet's food is designed specifically for their life stage.
- Kittens that are growing require pet foods with a higher protein level and a higher calorie count than most cats to meet their growth requirements. If these nutritional demands are not met, your pet’s growth may be stunted and/or your pet may become ill.
- Obesity is the most common nutritional disease seen in cats today. One reason for this is improper life stage feeding. For example, a cat — especially one that leads a sedentary lifestyle — may become overweight or even obese if fed pet food meant for kittens. Of course cats eating a food designed for adult maintenance can also become overweight if overfed, but the higher calorie levels in kitten foods will certainly contribute to the problem.
- Female cats that are pregnant or nursing have higher nutritional demands than those that are not active reproductively. During the pregnancy and while nursing, the mother cat is literally eating for more than one. If her nutritional demands are not met, her kittens may suffer from a lack of milk as a result. In other words, the mother cat may be unable to produce an adequate amount of milk to feed all of her kittens. In addition, nutritional deficits may also lead to disease for the mother as well. For example, a calcium deficiency can lead to a serious disease called eclampsia, which involves tremors, seizures and even death for the mother.
- Senior cats often have special nutritional requirements as well. Cats with mobility issues may benefit from a pet food that contains glucosamine and/or fatty acids such as DHA and EPA. Older cats may also suffer from illnesses such as chronic kidney disease or heart disease. In some cases, feeding the appropriate cat food can actually be an effective method to manage these diseases.
10 Tips for a Happy and Healthy Kitten : Your Pet Doctor
Getting a new kitten is one of the best things in the world. They’re cute, soft as down, and as cuddly as, well, kittens. Nearly irresistible, kittens melt even the toughest of hearts; even Attila the Hun was thought to have several dozen kittens around at any given time (never verified, but he was a soft-on-the-inside kind of guy, so who's to say?).
It's good to get things started off on the right paw, and the food and care you choose can make all the difference in the health and happiness of your growing kitten. Here are 10 starter tips for you and your "mew" companion.
1. Continue feeding your kitten its "normal" diet, but slowly introduce high quality kitten food (i.e., high in protein and taurine, and low in fillers and carbs) into the mix; consult your veterinarian as to what best serves your cat. After it has adjusted, feed it the high quality food exclusively.
2. Feed your kitten at least three times a day from a shallow plate. Remember, they’re tiny things and so they need easy access to their food. Snacks, especially during the growing stage, should also be included. Small amounts of high-protein foods like cooked egg yolk, boneless fish, and cooked or raw liver will be a great treat, and will help build strong bones.
3. That said, it's alright to feed your kitten frequently while it is growing (under six months old), even several times a day. If your kitten prefers grazing or eats modestly, keep a small amount of dry kibble available in a dish for it throughout the day.
4. Dry or wet? Many owners find a happy balance between the two. Perhaps wet food in the evening and dry in the day.
5. Always have fresh water available and check it throughout the day for cleanliness. Keep in mind that water is enough, no other liquid needs to be given. In fact, cow milk can cause quite a tummy ache and should be avoided. Yes, cats like the taste of milk and will drink it if you give it to them in a bowl. But that's not saying much, seeing as they also like the taste of antifreeze. Leave cow milk to small calves -- and people.
6. When you first bring your kitten home, it’s a good idea to keep your kitten in the same room with the litter box for a few days so that it may get used to it. Kittens don’t need much in the way of training. Often, just knowing where the box is is enough of an incentive to use it; cats naturally prefer to bury their waste.
7. Keep a close eye on your kitten. They’re small, curious, and can get into trouble. It is all too easy for a small animal to get caught between furniture and appliances, fall into a toilet, or be stepped on. Until it learns self safety, you will be your kitten's best line of defense.
8. Take your kitten for a checkup and all appropriate immunizations.
9. Getting your kitten spayed or neutered makes for a healthier and happier cat, and thus a happier you. Fixed cats don’t go into heat or get pregnant and are less likely to get into fights or spray urine. Neutering is usually done around six months, but most younger kittens handle this small surgery very well, and can have it done anytime after two months, but your vet will be the best judge of this. Make the appointment in advance, based on your vet's advice.
10. Play with your kitten. A piece of string, crumpled paper, or a toy from pet store -- almost anything can be a toy. Kittens (and cats) love to play. The bond you begin now, through play and unconditional love, will be unshakable for many years to come.
Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Coconut Oil for Cats: Is It a Good Idea? : Your Pet Doctor
Coconut oil is gaining in popularity with humans for things like cooking, hair care, and even as a moisturizer. But are there any benefits of coconut oil for cats? Can we feed our feline family members coconut oil or use it to protect their skin and coats? We asked some holistic veterinarians all about cats and coconut oil.
BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL FOR CATS
Using coconut oil for cats can have multiple benefits, says Dr. Anna Gardner, a holistic veterinarian in Washington. Externally, Gardner says coconut oil can help with allergies, dry skin, itchiness, and overall coat health. Internally, coconut oil can benefit a cat’s immune system, help with hairballs, reduce arthritis inflammation, improve bad breath, and help with a healthy stomach, she says.
Dr. Jeffrey Stupine, VMD, head veterinarian for wellness at the Pennsylvania SPCA, doesn’t recommend giving coconut oil on a regular basis, but he says his colleagues have seen it offer such benefits as treating dermatitis.
HOW TO GIVE CATS COCONUT OIL
You can use small amounts of coconut oil with food or apply it topically for cats with skin problems, Gardner says. But, as with any new food or supplement, don’t give your cat too much coconut oil too soon.
“I would introduce it slowly because, like anything, some cats tolerate it better than others or the cat could be allergic to it—which is rare but happens with any dietary supplement,” Gardner says. “Also adding too much too fast could cause diarrhea.”
For an average-size cat, give ¼ to ½ teaspoon once or twice a day, Gardner recommends. Other vets recommend starting with as little as 1/8 of a teaspoon daily. Gardner says that cat owners who want to use coconut oil to treat or prevent hairballs can give it less often, such as a few times a week. Overall, she notes that you should start small and adjust amounts as necessary.
As for how to get your cat to eat the coconut oil, Gardner says that shouldn’t be a problem unless you have a particularly picky cat: “It can be given directly, as a lot of cats like the taste,” she says. If your cat won’t eat coconut oil on its own, try mixing it with a tablespoon or two of especially pungent, canned cat food.
RISKS OF COCONUT OIL FOR CATS
While coconut oil does have some benefits for cats, it’s important to note that the ASPCA has it on their list of “People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets,” saying that it probably won’t cause much harm, but could result in upset stomachs or diarrhea.
Gardner agrees that there could be risks.
“Since it is high in saturated fats, I would be cautious using it in cats with pancreatic inflammation, and some cats can be sensitive to it,” she says.
Stupine also worries about the risk of pancreatitis and says that the use of coconut oil for cats should be monitored carefully.
Coconut oil is also very high in calories. You’ll need to cut back elsewhere in the diet to avoid unwanted weight gain if you start feeding your cat coconut oil.
ALTERNATIVES TO COCONUT OIL FOR CATS
If your cat won’t tolerate coconut oil, there are alternatives to consider. In fact, Stupine says that coconut oil seems to be used in a manner similar to fish oil, though coconut oil doesn’t have the Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil.
Gardner says that fish oil and topical olive oil can be good alternatives, though ideally they would be used together to maximize fatty acids.
“I usually recommend fish oil—including salmon, anchovy, krill. These have some similar benefits, but not topically,” she says. “Topically, olive oil can help with skin issues but this does not have the same anti-inflammatory effects as coconut oil. These supplements have some overlap with coconut oil but they don't have the same effects.”
Keep in mind that all cats are different and your veterinarian can help you determine if the benefits of using coconut oil with your cat outweigh the risks.
6 Healthy Treat Ideas for Cats: Your Pet Doctor
After a long day at work, chances are you’re happy to go home and play with your cat. We all want to make our pets happy, so your bonding time might include a few extra treats. However, cat experts caution that giving your cat too many treats can be harmful.
“Obesity is a huge problem in both dogs and cats,” says Dr. Rachel Barrack, DVM, a veterinarian and veterinary acupuncturist at Animal Acupuncture. “It has been shown that obesity is linked to major medical problems in both dogs and cats including cancer, degenerative joint disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and decreased life expectancy and quality of life. The most commonly seen cause of obesity in pets is overfeeding—particularly overfeeding treats.”
That’s not to say that you can never give your pet treats, of course. But you should think about when you treat and how much you give each time. Giving healthy treats to a cat might seem like the obvious answer, but it’s a little harder to treat cats than dogs, says Dr. Amy Farcas, DVM, a veterinary nutritionist with Veterinary Nutrition Care in California.
“Cats are different,” she says. “They don’t really eat most of what we think would make a good treat for animals.” Most aren’t likely to eat fruits or vegetables either, she said.
So what kinds of healthy treats can you give your cat? Here are six ideas.
SMALL PIECES OF LEAN MEAT
Cats need an amino acid found in protein, so it’s essential they get enough meat, according to the ASPCA. While a balanced diet is the best way to do this, many cats appreciate meat as a treat, too.
“Some cats are more likely to take pieces of meat as a treat, and I think that’s a reasonable expectation, but there are some cats who will just say, ‘Where’s my kibble?’” Farcas says.
THEIR KIBBLE
Sure, it might not sound like such a treat to you, but think of it this way: Your cat already enjoys their kibble and this is one way to give them fewer calories.
“Try setting aside some of your dog or cat’s food to allocate as a ‘treat’ throughout the day,” Barrack says. “This will eliminate excess calories. Make sure that all members of the household are on board with the amount to avoid overfeeding.”
DRIED LIVER
Again, cats need protein in their diet, which dried liver has. Of course, the Knox County Humane Society says that this treat should be given in moderation.
WET CAT FOOD
Many cats eat and enjoy dry kibble, but wet cat food can be a good treat option, says the Oregon Humane Society.
COMMERCIAL TREATS
If you enjoy preparing treats for your cat, it can be a part of the bonding experience, Farcas says. But if you don’t, there’s no need to worry that commercial treats are necessarily unhealthy. A cat’s needs are individual, so check with your veterinarian to see what they recommend.
AFFECTION
When you’re craving a late-night snack, a pat on the head will certainly not take its place. Luckily, cats are a little different—they don’t always need a treat to know you love them or that they’ve done something good.
“I understand that treats are a way for owners to show praise and affection but this can also be accomplished through petting, playing, or a long walk,” Barrack says.
LIMITING TREATS
It’s important to keep in mind that cats don’t actually need treats, regardless of how healthy the treats may be.
“Even if you’re feeding an item that’s considered to be healthy, it’s still considered an unbalanced food item because it doesn’t provide that whole package that a complete diet does,” Farcas says.
And keep in mind that over treating can actually diminish that healthy diet your cat normally eats: “Most commercial pet foods are balanced in such a way that it is safe and reasonable to give 5-10% of that animal’s daily intake as treats without creating any deficiency in the main part of the diet,” Farcas says.
8 Signs of Pain in Cats: Your Pet Doctor
Pain it isn’t always obvious to others when you’re experiencing it. Unless it’s a broken leg twisted at a 90-degree angle or a big bruise on your arm, pain is a condition with no obvious external manifestations. Sure, some people are good at going around making sure everyone knows they’ve stubbed a toe or pulled a groin muscle, but other people are more like cats—you’d never know anything was wrong.
Cats are renowned for their ability to mask pain and discomfort. This is a great advantage when out in the wild around a predator, but it’s a big problem in a home when pet owners are unaware that their pet has a problem.
CAT PAIN: WHAT WE KNOW
Veterinarians have come a long way in understanding pain in pets. With that understanding comes the knowledge that we are very likely undertreating pets for pain they are commonly experiencing. Arthritis, dental disease, urinary tract disease, bone disease, and cancer are just a few of the common feline medical conditions that are known to be painful. Pain management specialists have a mantra they often repeat: “Assume pain.” If you diagnose a painful medical condition, pain management should be part of the treatment, every time.
Cats may not speak, but they do communicate their pain in their own ways. Although they can’t come up to us and say, “I’m hurting,” cats do exhibit behavioral changes that can indicate they are experiencing pain. The American Animal Hospital Association has pain management guidelines that can help owners and veterinarians manage feline pain.
RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS OF CAT PAIN
Here are some of the most common behavioral signs that might be a symptom of a cat in pain:
CHANGE IN ACTIVITY LEVEL
A change in activity level can indicate discomfort. Cats might become less active and sleep more hours than they used to. Stiff, arthritic cats may be reluctant to change positions, or no longer jump onto high surfaces. Conversely, cats may become more active: restless, repetitively getting up and down, and seeming to have difficulty getting comfortable.
SELF MUTILATION
While many people associate biting and licking with allergies, pets in pain often repetitively lick and bite at painful areas. They may do it so often that they cause secondary trauma to their body in the form of skin infections and hair loss.
VOCALIZING
Most of us know that a hissing or growling cat is an unhappy cat, but did you know meows and purrs can accompany pain as well? Some cats purr when they are frightened or hurting, and it does not always indicate contentment. This is particularly true for cats with an easygoing or gentle personality.
CHANGE IN DAILY ROUTINE
A cat whose appetite suddenly drops may be feeling too much pain to eat, or may be experiencing nausea from a disease process. Cats who have an abrupt onset of soiling in the house after years of using the litterbox may be too painful to get in and out of a box with high sides, or too sore to get to where the box is located. A lap cat who suddenly can’t stand being held may be experiencing pain when they are touched or pet. Any of these changes in their usual personality and preferences may be medical in origin.
POSTURE
Cats do a version of the “little old person shuffle” when they are stiff; they walk very gingerly and avoid the usual athletic leaps we are accustomed to seeing. Cats with abdominal pain may have a hunched back, tucking in their abdomen in a protective posture. You may also notice a cat being protective of a certain area of their body, not wanting to be touched or scratched; they may also limp or hesitate to put weight on a sore limb.
FACIAL EXPRESSIONS
Granted, facial expression can be difficult to gauge in a cat, but certain giveaways can indicate pain or discomfort. A vacant stare at nothing in particular, or a “glazed” expression is common. Cats in distress can also have dilated pupils—part of the stress response in the body. Unlike in dogs, cats do not normally pant. If you notice a panting cat, particularly when she is at rest, you should get her evaluated as soon as possible.
AGGRESSION
Some cats are naturally surly for their entire lives. It can be hard to tell if they are escalating their level of aggression. However, a normally friendly cat who is suddenly hissing, swatting, and biting may be a cat in pain. Out-of-character meanness is a cat’s way of asking to be left alone.
POOR COAT CONDITION
Cats are expert groomers, spending up to five hours a day on maintaining their silky coats. However, pain from arthritis can make it difficult to contort themselves into their normal grooming positions, and pain in general can make a cat too uncomfortable or worn out to maintain their normal routine. A cat who stops grooming and starts to look unkempt may be in pain and needs to be evaluated.
CONTROLLING PAIN IN CATS
Historically, we have had very limited options for pain control in cats, but fortunately this is changing. Owners must never treat their cat with pain medications meant for people, as they metabolize medication differently and can die from something as benign to humans as Tylenol. If you think your cat might be in pain, get her evaluated by your vet to discuss the best treatment options.
4 Common Home Remedies for Your Cat: Your Pet Doctor
More people are turning to natural remedies for both themselves and their pets. While nothing can replace the expertise of your local vet, there are many natural remedies to combat common cat ailments. Below you will find several popular holistic methods -- all of which can be done from the comfort of your own home.
1. THE ITCHY AND SCRATCHY SHOW
The causes for itching are many, including fleas, dandruff, or even allergies. But regardless of the cause, itchy cats make for rude unfriendly pets. Help Ms. Scratchy Cat out with asoothing, homemeade dip of rosemary, peppermint, or pennyroyal (these are especially helpful for itching associated with flea). Just be careful when using essential oils, as cats often don’t respond well to ingesting them. You could also try a tea bath with catnip or aloe to soothe your cat's skin.
Does your cat have skin flakes? We recommend you skip the dandruff shampoo and use a humidifier instead. A humidifier, in conjunction with a healthy diet, will assist in rejuvenating and re-moisturizing the cat’s dry, scaly skin, which is generally caused by a lack of moisture in the home environment.
2. HAIRBALL CENTRAL
Never mind that these little “surprises” are disgusting to look at, but some cats scatter them around the home like a minefield. And doesn't it always seem that you only step on them while you're barefoot? Shaving your cat might be a tempting idea, but we don’t recommend it. Have you ever seen how pathetic a wet cat looks? A shaved cat will look much the same. Instead, step up the grooming routine and try a less drastic remedy for those pesky hairballs. Brush your feline friend daily and then thoroughly wipe down its fur with a moist towel.
You can also help your cat pass the hairballs by giving it a little petroleum jelly or butter to eat (butter may be better, as far as kitty is concerned). Just half a teaspoon for a few days will help. No more, no less. Of course, a diet high in fiber and exercise is another solution to your hairball problem. So get on it, kick off your shoes, and make your home a hairball-free zone again.
3. ATTACK OF THE BLADDER CAT
Cats, especially male cats, are susceptible to bladder/urethra issues and blockages. If your cat has had such problems, unsweetened cranberry juice may help prevent a reoccurrence. This is because cranberry increases urine acidity which means less chance of blockages or infections.
So try adding cranberry powder to your cat's food, or cranberry juice to her water. If your cat is finicky, try a syringe of juice daily straight into your cat's mouth or give her a cranberry capsule. However, consult your vet or the expert at the local holistic pet store for advice on the proper dosage.
4. NOT ON MY TURF
Kitties can be very territorial; some are always looking for an excuse to start a fight. While minor scratches or scrapes don’t warrant an expensive trip to the vet, you should play nurse and tend the wounds (nurse uniform is purely optional). Cleanse the wounds with either diluted baby shampoo or a simple saline solution. You can make your own saline solution from salt and water, or use a first-aid saline solution available at any pharmacy. You might also want to trim the fur around the wound and can keep an eye out for any possible inflammation or infection. If that should occur, contact your vet immediately.
Now you are prepared to try out some of the most popular home remedies on your cat. As always, research the holistic treatment before you begin. And when in doubt, or if your cat shows little or no improvement, take your kitty to see the vet.
Emergencies for Adult Cats: Your Pet Care
It can be quite frightening to see your cat suffering, especially if you are unsure whether the situation should be considered an emergency. When in doubt, always contact your veterinarian or the nearest animal hospital. But to hopefully better prepare you, here are some of the most common emergencies involving cats found in emergency veterinary hospitals around the country.
CHOKING, COUGHING, AND/OR DIFFICULTY BREATHING
Choking can be a serious problem, even if the symptoms resolve within seconds. Lack of proper oxygenation or the build-up of fluid within the lungs can be a dangerous consequence of choking.
Any difficulty breathing should also be considered a serious problem, requiring immediate evaluation by a veterinarian. Often radiographs are necessary to evaluate the lungs and airways.
Coughing is a vague symptom of several possibilities, including viruses, bacteria, fungal pneumonia, allergic bronchitis, or even congenital heart disease. Any compromise in your pet’s respiratory ability should be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
VOMITING AND DIARRHEA
Vomiting and/or diarrhea can be caused by many different things, including a sudden change in diet parasites, dietary indiscretion, infectious diseases, toxins, and more. Some cases of vomiting or diarrhea may be mild and self-limiting. However, persistent or severe vomiting and diarrhea can be problematic. Your cat can rapidly become dehydrated with these symptoms. Depending on the underlying cause, symptoms can drastically worsen in a matter of hours.
TRAUMA
Trauma may the result of a being hit by a car, being attacked by another animal, falling from an elevated height, or any other type of accident. Trauma may result in blood loss, shock, broken bones, lacerations and other external wounds, internal bleeding, internal injuries, and pain. It may become life-threatening for your cat. If your cat experiences any type of trauma, he should be examined by your veterinarian, even if he seems unharmed initially. Complications from trauma are not uncommon and early intervention will give your cat the best chance of a successful recovery.
TOXIN INGESTION
There are many substances that can be toxic to cats. Among the most dangerous are the plants known as true lilies. Antifreeze is another potential toxin that can be deadly. Cleaning chemicals, medications (both prescription and over-the-counter), garden products (fertilizers, plants, bulbs), chocolate, rodenticides, and insecticides are other potential toxins. If in doubt about whether a substance is toxic, contact your veterinarian for advice.
FOREIGN BODY INGESTION
Cats are curious by nature, and many are playful. Any foreign body that is ingested can become problematic, either causing gastrointestinal problems such as intestinal obstructions or perforations, or getting stuck in the throat or trachea, causing choking and possibly suffocation. Linear foreign bodies are a particularly common problem in cats. These may include string, rope, ribbon, fishing wire, and other similar items.
ALLERGIC REACTIONS
Cats can develop allergic reactions. Causes of these reactions range from vaccine sensitivity to insect bites. An anaphylactic reaction is the most serious form of allergic reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, difficulty breathing, and collapse. Cats may also suffer allergic reactions that include facial swelling, hives and itchiness. Care is necessary if you suspect an allergic reaction in your pet.
PAIN
Pain can occur in pets for several reasons and can be displayed in a variety of ways. Pacing, agitation, restlessness, panting, rapid heart rate, or even aggression, are all symptoms of possible pain. Arthritis, dental disease, and trauma are some of the most common causes of pain. If you believe your cat is in pain, seek veterinary help.
SEIZURES
Seizures are episodes of abnormal electrical activity within the brain. They can be triggered by intra-cranial problems (such as epilepsy, brain tumors, or brain swelling) or extra-cranial problems (such as low blood sugar, electrolyte disturbances, etc). Any seizure can be life threatening. Seizures can occur singly or in clusters, and can occur at any time and in any frequency. If your pet has a seizure, seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
DIFFICULTY URINATING
Straining to urinate is a symptom of more than just a urinary tract infection. Many pets will strain to urinate if they have crystals or stones in their bladder. Inflammation, blood clots, cancer, or even stress alone can all cause difficulty urinating. If your cat is straining and is unable to pass any urine, it is a life threatening emergency that needs to be addressed by a veterinarian immediately.
WOUNDS FROM FIGHTS/ABSCESSES
Any laceration, puncture, or open wound needs veterinary attention. Abscesses result from wounds which have become infected. They will initially appear as a fluctuant swelling under the skin. Eventually, the abscess may break open and drain. Abscesses may continue to recur unless the infection is controlled. Your cat will likely require antibiotics and your veterinarian may need to clean the wound and remove any dead tissue.
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