Pet Appreciation Week

It is Pet Appreciation Week, a great time to show your cat how much they mean to you. Is your cat up-to-date on their vaccinations and exams? Call Cats Only Veterinary Clinic today if you're not sure.

It's Pet First Aid Awareness Month

Ten Steps to Dental Health

Even if the only things your cat hunts these days are chicken-flavored kibbles and toy mice, it still needs clean, sharp teeth and healthy gums. Damage to the tongue, teeth, palate and gums can lead to many health risks for felines, but these can be prevented with regular home check-ups and good old-fashioned tooth brushings.

1. The Breath Test
Go on, take a sniff. It doesn't have to be a long one. Cat breath may not smell like roses, but it shouldn't be offensive either. If your kitty's mouth has an abnormally strong odor, he may have digestive problems or a gum condition such as gingivitis, and should be examined by a veterinarian.

2. Lip Service
With your cat facing you, gently push back its lips and take a look. The gums should be firm and pink, not white or red, and should show no signs of swelling. The teeth should be clean and free of any brownish tartar and none should be loose or broken.

3. A Closer Look
Watch for any of the following signs that could indicate problems in your cat's mouth:

• Dark red line along the gums
• Red and swollen gums
• Ulcers on gums or tongue 
• Loose teeth
• Pus
• Difficulty chewing food
• Excessive drooling
• Excessive pawing at the mouth 

4. Dangerous Swelling

At any sign of inflammation, you should take your cat in for a veterinary examination. If left untreated, gum disease can develop, possibly leading to tooth loss or inability to eat. Inflammation may also point to an internal problem like kidney disease or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. 

5. The Lowdown on Tooth Decay 

Bacteria and plaque-forming foods can cause a buildup on a cat's teeth. This can harden into tartar, possibly causing gingivitis, receding gums and tooth loss. The solution? Regular teeth cleanings, of course. 

6. Your Cat's Tooth-Brushing Kit

All you'll need to brush your cat's teeth are cotton swabs and a small toothbrush and tube of toothpaste formulated for felines. You can also use salt and water. Ask your veterinarian to suggest the brushing supplies that he trusts, and be sure never to use toothpaste designed for people, the ingredients can be unhealthy for your cat. 

7. Brightening the Pearly Whites 

Brush your cat's teeth at home by following these simple steps: 

• First get your cat used to the idea of having its teeth brushed. Start by gently massaging the gums with your fingers or touching a cotton swab to them. 
• After a few sessions, put a little bit of cat-formulated toothpaste on her lips to get her used to the taste. 
• Next, introduce a toothbrush designed for cats, it will be smaller than human toothbrushes and have softer bristles. Toothbrushes that you can wear over your finger are also available and allow you to give a nice massage to your cat's gums. 
• Finally, apply the toothpaste to your cats teeth for a gentle brushing. 
• A veterinary exam beforehand may be helpful to find out if your cat's gums are inflammed. 

8. Chew on This 

Chew toys can satisfy your cat's natural desire to chomp, while making the teeth strong. Gnawing on a chew toy can also help floss your cat's teeth, massage her gums and scrape away soft tartar. 

9. Diet for Healthy Teeth 

If your cat has dental troubles, ask your vet to recommend a kibble that keeps feline teeth healthy and helps to remove plaque buildup. 

10. Know your Mouth Disorders 

If your cat suffers from any of the symptoms mentioned below, please see the vet right away: 

• Gingivitis: This inflammation of the gums is mainly seen in older cats. It may start as a dark red line bordering on the teeth. If left untreated, gums may become sore and ulceration may occur. 
• Periodontitis: If gingivitis invades the tooth socket, the tooth may become loose and an abscess may form. 
• Stomatitis: This inflammation of the mouth lining may result from a foreign body in the mouth, a viral disease or dental problems. The cat will have difficulty eating and the inside of the mouth will appear red. 
• Rodent Ulcer: A slowly enlarging sore 
• Salivary Cyst: If salivary glands or ducts that carry saliva to the mouth become blocked, a cyst may form under the tongue 
• Mouth Ulcers: Ulcers on a cat's tongue and gums are sometimes caused by feline respiratory or kidney disease. 

Source: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care/ten-steps-to-dental-health.aspx

6 Common Cat Health Problems

Cats are good at self-maintenance, but even your fastidious feline can't prevent some of the more common cat diseases and health issues. To help you care for kitty, here's a brief overview of six of the most common cat health problems.

Common Cat Health Problem: Vomiting

Vomiting is a very common cat health problem, with causes ranging from eating something poisonous or inedible (like string), to infection, urinary tract disease, or diabetes.

Symptoms are usually obvious, and include drooling and abdominal heaving. Vomiting can quickly leave your cat dehydrated, so if kitty continues vomiting or acts ill, call your vet right away. And, because it's hard for a pet owner to tell the difference between vomiting and regurgitation, collect a sample of your cat's vomit and take it with you to the vet.

Common Cat Health Problem: Feline Lower Urinary Tract Diseases (FLUTD)

About 10% of cats brought to the vet have feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), which is actually a group of feline diseases with multiple causes.

Female and male cats can get FLUTD, and it often occurs in cats that are overweight, unfit, or who eat dry food. Stress, a multi-cat household, and sudden changes can all raise a cat's risk of FLUTD, and treatment depends on the type of FLUTD your cat has. FLUTD symptoms include:

• Straining to urinate
• Bloody urine
• Urinating in unusual places
• Crying when urinating
• Licking around the urinary area (often because of pain)
• Depression
• Dehydration
• Lack of appetite
• Vomiting

It's always an emergency if your cat can't urinate. Call your vet immediately if you suspect your cat has a urinary tract problem.

Common Cat Health Problem: Fleas

Fleas are a very common external feline health problem, but one you can treat easily. Signs your cat has fleas include:

• Flea dirt on their skin (they look like tiny black dots)
• Constant scratching
• Frequent licking
• Red or irritated skin
• Hair loss
• Skin infections or hot spots

Fleas can live for more than a year, and your cat risks anemia if the problem becomes serious, so be sure to treat your cat's flea problem and prevent future infestations.

Talk to your vet about which flea control would be best for your cat. Treatments include oral medication, powders, foams, and topical medication.

Common Cat Health Problem: Tapeworms

One of the most common feline health problems inside your cat, tapeworms live in kitty's small intestine, sometimes growing as long as two feet.

Symptoms of a tapeworm infection can be subtle, but may include vomiting and weight loss. The easiest way to tell if your cat has tapeworms is to look at its feces and around its anus. If you see small white worms, or what look like grains of rice or sesame seeds, your cat likely has tapeworms.

Treatment options include injection or oral medication, but because cats almost always get tapeworms as a result of swallowing a flea, be sure to handle any flea problems your cat has before tackling tapeworms.

Common Cat Health Problem: Diarrhea

Many things can cause diarrhea in cats, including hairballs, spoiled food, allergies, infection, liver disease, cancer, and more.

Symptoms of diarrhea are loose, watery, or liquid stool. Depending on its cause, diarrhea can last for a day, a week, or even months.

If your cat has diarrhea, offer kitty plenty of fresh, clean water to prevent dehydration, then remove kitty's food for no more than 12-24 hours. Take your cat to the vet if he or she still has diarrhea after a day, or immediately if you notice vomiting, dark, or bloody stools, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or if you cat is straining to defecate.

Common Cat Health Problem: Eye Problems

Eye problems in cats can be caused by a number of things, including conjunctivitis, cataracts, glaucoma, trauma, viruses, inflammation, and retinal disease.

A few symptoms that may mean your cat has eye problems include watery eyes, tear-stained fur, cloudiness, red or white eyelid linings, gunk in the corners of the eye, squinting, pawing at the eye, or a visible third eyelid.

Unless you know what's causing your cat's eye problems, there isn't much you can do other than wipe away any gunk with a damp cotton ball. After that, call your vet.

SOURCES: American Veterinary Medical Association: "External Parasites," "What is Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease?" 

Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby County: "About FLUTD. 

"Veterinary Partner: "Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)." "Vomiting and Diarrhea." 

Suevet.com: "Cat Vomiting." 

ASPCA: “Fleas," “Worms," “Diarrhea," “Top Tips for Keeping Kitty's Eyes Healthy.” 

©2011 WebMD, LLC. All Rights Reserved. 

Halloween Safety Tips

Attention, animal lovers, it's almost the spookiest night of the year! Taking some common sense precautions this Halloween will keep you and your pet saying "trick or treat!" all the way to November 1.

1. No tricks, no treats: That bowl of candy is for trick-or-treaters, not for Scruffy and Fluffy. Chocolate in all forms—especially dark or baking chocolate—can be very dangerous for dogs and cats. Candies containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can also cause problems. If you do suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

2. Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered to be relatively nontoxic, but they can produce stomach upset in pets who nibble on them.

3. Wires and cords from electric lights and other decorations should be kept out of reach of your pets. If chewed, your pet might suffer cuts or burns, or receive a possibly life-threatening electrical shock.

4. A carved pumpkin certainly is festive, but do exercise caution if you choose to add a candle. Pets can easily knock a lit pumpkin over and cause a fire. Curious kittens especially run the risk of getting burned or singed by candle flames.

5. Dress-up can be a big mess-up for some pets. Please don't put your dog or cat in a costume UNLESS you know he or she loves it (yup, a few pets are real hams!). For pets who prefer their “birthday suits,” however, wearing a costume may cause undue stress.

6. If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume isn't annoying or unsafe. It should not constrict the animal's movement or hearing, or impede his ability to breathe, bark or meow. Also, be sure to try on costumes before the big night. If your pet seems distressed, allergic or shows abnormal behavior, consider letting him go au naturale or donning a festive bandana.

7. Take a closer look at your pet’s costume and make sure it does not have small, dangling or easily chewed-off pieces that he could choke on. Also, ill-fitting outfits can get twisted on external objects or your pet, leading to injury.

8. All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets.

9. When opening the door for trick-or-treaters, take care that your cat or dog doesn't dart outside.

10. IDs, please! Always make sure your dog or cat has proper identification. If for any reason your pet escapes and becomes lost, a collar and tags and/or a microchip can be a lifesaver, increasing the chances that he or she will be returned to you.

Are You Allergic To Your Cat?

Breathe easy! You can still keep your animal companion! 

Although more and more people are discovering the beneficial effects of owning a furry bundle of joy, the fact remains that roughly 15 to 20 percent of the population is allergic to animals. The result? Countless owners in unhappy, unhealthy situations—and their beloved pets are the cause! Allergen is the medical term for the actual substance that causes an allergic reaction. Touching or inhaling allergens leads to reactions in allergic individuals. Symptoms can include red, itchy, watery eyes and nose; sneezing; coughing; scratchy or sore throat; itchy skin, and most serious of all, difficulty breathing.

The most common pet allergens are proteins found in their dander (scales of old skin that are constantly shed by an animal), saliva, urine and sebaceous cells. Any animal can trigger an allergic response, but cats are the most common culprits. People can also become allergic to the urine, dander and saliva of exotic pets such as ferrets, guinea pigs, birds, rabbits and rodents. There is no species or breed to which humans cannot develop allergies. Fur length and type will not affect or prevent allergies. Certain pets can be less irritating than others to those who suffer from allergies, but that is strictly on an individual basis and cannot be predicted.

Once the diagnosis of a pet allergy is made, a physician will often recommend eliminating the companion animal from the surroundings. Heartbreaking? Yes. Absolutely necessary? Not always. Keep in mind that most people are allergic to several things besides pets, such as dust mites, molds and pollens, all of which can be found in the home. Allergic symptoms result from the total cumulative allergen load. That means that if you eliminate some of the other allergens, you may not have to get rid of your pet. (Conversely, should you decide to remove your pet from your home, this may not immediately solve your problems.) You must also be prepared to invest the time and effort needed to decontaminate your home environment, limit future exposure to allergens and find a physician who will work with you. Our three-part program follows:

Improving the Immediate Environment

1. Create an allergen-free room. A bedroom is often the best and most practical choice. By preventing your pet from entering this room, you can ensure at least eight hours of freedom from allergens every night. It's a good idea to use hypoallergenic bedding and pillow materials.
2. Limit fabrics. Allergens collect in rugs, drapes and upholstery, so do your best to limit or eliminate them from your home. If you choose to keep some fabrics, steam-clean them regularly. Cotton-covered furniture is the smartest choice, and washable blinds or shades make good window treatments.
3. Vacuum frequently using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) filter or a disposable electrostatic bag. Other kinds of bags will permit allergens to blow back out of the vacuum.
4. Install an air purifier fitted with a HEPA filter. Our modern, energy-efficient homes lock in air that is loaded with allergens, so it’s smart to let in some fresh air daily.
5. Use anti-allergen room sprays. These sprays deactivate allergens, rendering them harmless. Ask your allergist for a product recommendation.
6. Clean the litter box frequently. Use lowdust, perfume-free filler. Clumping litter is a good choice.
7. Dust regularly. Wiping down the walls will also cut down on allergens.
8. Invest in washable pet bedding and cages that can be cleaned often and easily.

Decontaminating Your Pet

1. Bathe your pet at least once a week. Your veterinarian can recommend a shampoo that won't dry out his skin. Bathing works to wash off the allergens that accumulate in an animal’s fur.
2. Wipe your pet with a product formulated to prevent dander from building up and flaking off into the environment. Ask your veterinarian to suggest one that is safe to use on animals who groom themselves.
3. Note any symptoms of dermatitis exhibited by your companion animal. Dermatitis often leads to accelerated skin and fur shedding, which will up your allergen exposure.
4. Brush or comb your pet frequently. It’s best to do this outdoors, if possible. (The ASPCA does not recommend keeping cats outdoors, so make sure your feline is leashed if you take him outside.)

Taking Care of Yourself

1. If possible, have someone other than yourself do the housecleaning, litter box work and pet washing, wiping and brushing. If you must clean the house or change the litter, be sure to wear a dust mask.
2. Wash your hands after handling your companion animal and before touching your face. The areas around your nose and eyes are particularly sensitive to allergens.
3. Designate a “pet outfit” from among your most easily washed clothes. Wear it when playing or cuddling with your companion, and you’ll leave other clothing uncontaminated.
4. Find a physician, preferably an allergy specialist, who will make sure that your pet is the cause of your allergies and will help alleviate your symptoms. Medications and immunotherapy (desensitizing shots) can often allow you and your companion animal to remain together happily ever after.

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/allergic.aspx

Feline Idiopathic Lower Urinary Tract Disease

What is feline idiopathic urinary tract disease?

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is a term used to describe a set of clinical signs associated with abnormal urination in cats. When the condition has no identifiable cause, it is called Feline Idiopathic Lower Urinary Tract Disease (iFLUTD) to indicate that this is an exclusionary diagnosis.

"iFLUTD is the exclusionary diagnosis made once all of the common or known causes of the clinical signs have been eliminated."

It is important to understand the difference between iFLUTD and Feline Urologic Syndrome or FUS. FUS is simply a description of the syndrome manifested by straining to urinate, frequent attempts at urination, and a partial or complete urethral obstruction. FUS is not a diagnosis but a term used to describe the cat's condition, just as you would say a cat is itchy or is vomiting. iFLUTD is the exclusionary diagnosis made once all of the common or known causes of the clinical signs have been eliminated.

What are the clinical signs of feline idiopathic lower urinary tract disease?

The most common clinical signs of IFLUTD are the same as those of FUS:

• Straining to urinate
• Bloody or discolored urine
• Frequent urinations
• Urinating in unusual locations
• Urethral obstruction or the inability to urinate

What causes feline idiopathic lower urinary tract disease?

By definition, in cases of Feline Idiopathic Lower Urinary Tract Disease there is no known cause. The conditions that should be ruled out include:

• Bladder stones and urethral plugs
• Bladder infections
• Trauma
• Neurologic disorders that alter normal urination by affecting the nerves and muscles of the bladder
• Anatomic abnormalities such as urethral strictures
• Neoplasia (cancer or benign tumors of the urinary tract)

Once all of the common causes of abnormal urination have been eliminated, a diagnosis of Feline Idiopathic Lower Urinary Tract Disease may be made.

How is iFLUTD diagnosed?

iFLUTD is diagnosed by performing tests to eliminate the known causes of abnormal urination. These tests include any or all of the following:

• Thorough medical history and physical examination - especially pay attention to any changes in environment, feeding, stress, etc.
• Blood tests - complete blood cell count (CBC) and serum chemistries
• Complete urinalysis
• Urine culture and antibiotic sensitivity tests
• Abdominal radiographs, which may include contrast radiographic studies
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Cystoscopy or endoscopic examination of the urethra and bladder
• Bladder biopsy

Your veterinarian will formulate a diagnostic plan based on your cat's specific clinical symptoms.

What is the treatment of iFLUTD?

"Since the exact cause of iFLUTD is unknown, treatment will be symptomatic, and is based on your cat's individual needs."

Since the exact cause of iFLUTD is unknown, treatment will be symptomatic, and is based on your cat's individual needs. Drug choices include:

• Propantheline
• Amitriptyline
• Butorphanol
• Phenoxybenzamine
• Pentosan polysulfate sodium
• Metacam® (meloxicam)

Corticosteroids, DMSO, antibiotics and methenamine have not been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of iFLUTD. Your veterinarian will develop a treatment plan based on your cat's needs.

What is the prognosis for iFLUTD?

"The number of recurrences tends to decline as the cat gets older."

Many cases of iFLUTD improve without medical intervention in four to seven days. However, recurrence is common. Medical treatment may help reduce the recurrence or improve clinical signs, thus relieving your cat's discomfort. The number of recurrences tends to decline as the cat gets older. While a frustrating disorder for both the cat and owner, iFLUTD rarely causes long term or serious consequences.

Ernest Ward, DVM

© Copyright 2009 Lifelearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license.

Mobilize the Earth for Earth Day 2012

The first Earth Day, on April 22, 1970, activated 20 million Americans from all walks of life to speak out against the deterioration of the environment and demand change. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency was created, the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts were passed,and the modern environmental movement was born.

Today, more than 1 billion people in 192 countries participate in Earth Day activities each year, making it the largest civic observance in the world. This year, in the face of global inaction on pressing environmental problems, we must harness that power.

Earth Day Network is calling upon individuals, organizations, businesses and governments to Mobilize the Earth™ and demand that environmental issues become a top priority.

Chick Falls Asleep on Cat

Pets & Easter Lilies

Lilies are a popular Easter flower, but did you know that they can actually be toxic to your cat? Like the Christmas poinsettias, lilies can attract the attention of your cat, and then have a toxic effect when ingested. Keep those Easter lilies far from your pet's reach this season, or look into artificial options. The art of artificial flowers have gotten so advanced that your guests won't be able to tell the difference...and your cat will be safe.

Tomorrow is 'If Pets Had Thumbs Day'

National Black Cat Day

Black cats and wonderful and should be celebrated.
So, here are top ten reasons why everyone should adopt a black cat:

10. You’ll save money on their Halloween costumes.

9. You can always find them in the snow.

8. Holding a black cat is very slimming.

7. Black cats will match any decor.

6. A link brush isn’t required for a black-tie affair.

5. When you love a black cat, luck is on your side.

4. Black cats are like onyx, a beautiful gem! 

3. They love to play just as much as any cat. 

2.They are least likely to be adopted. 

1. Love knows no color.

Did You Know...

Did you know that retractable claws are a physical phenomenon that sets cats apart from the rest of the animal kingdom? When cats scratch, it is to shed the sheaths of their old claws. In the cat family, only cheetahs are unable to retract their claws.

 

 

Cats & Heat Stroke

Summer is approaching and the days can reach extreme temperatures. Did you know that cats are susceptible to heatstroke just as humans? Signs of heatstroke include panting heavily, staring, anxious expression, high fever, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, and collapse. If you suspect your cat has heatstroke lower his or her body temperature by applying towels soaked in cool water and get them to Cats Only Veterinary Clinic immediately.

 

Cats and Exercise

Obesity is the root of many health issues for cats, including heart and liver disease, constipation, diabetes and arthritis. To help your cat shed extra pounds, a balanced diet of primarily canned and limited dry food is a must. You can also try to stimulate your cat’s activity level by providing puzzle feeders, interactive play time and food balls that dispense food as your cat rolls them around. Limit treats to about 10% of your cat’s diet and make them work for it by tossing treats for them to chase.

Good dental care for your cat can help prevent tartar build-up, tooth decay, and even periodontal disease, helping your cat live a longer, healthier life. We will be happy to provide more information on dental care for your cat and schedule a dental appointment to keep your pet smiling!

 

The Importance of Cat Wellness Exams

Feline obesity has become a major health issue. This spring start a new exercise program for you and your pet and you’ll both feel rejuvenated and invigorated. Exercise is a great way to play with your pet and keep them healthy at the same time.  We recommend combining exercise and play to keep your pet fit and healthy. 

Click here for more information about how to get your feline friend exercising! 

Skin parasites are common in cats and can be overlooked due to their small size. The most commonly seen skin parasites are fleas, but can also include microscopic bugs such as skin mites and ear mites. Fleas and other skin parasites are not only a nuisance to owners and their pets, but can cause serious health issues if left untreated. Cats Only Veterinary Clinic can help detect and eliminate these parasites and simple monthly preventatives can help prevent parasites from returning. 

This week is Be Kind to Animals Week!

Join the event that’s been celebrated every year since 1915 -- American Humane Association’s Be Kind to Animals Week. In 1952, Be Kind to Animals Week received official endorsement from the United States and Canadian governments and is now one of the oldest special week-long observances in the Uni...ted States. In this annual tradition, we commemorate the role animals play in our lives, promote ways to continue to treat them humanely, and encourage others, especially children, to do the same. While Be Kind to Animals Week is celebrated only once a year, we should strive to always be kind to animals every day. What is the kindest thing you've done for your pet today?