Healthy digestion in dogs can go awry for various reasons, from dietary imbalance to food allergies or medical conditions. Your veterinarian can help you get to the root cause of your dog’s digestive issues. And if they recommend a gastrointestinal (GI) diet for your dog, here’s what you need to know before you switch.

What is Gastrointestinal Dog Food?

GI dog food — also known as dog food for sensitive stomachs — is specially formulated to be easy on a dog’s digestive tract. These diets contain easily digestible ingredients that deliver a variety of benefits, such as:

• Rice and/or oatmeal provide carbs for energy and fiber for stool quality
• High-quality animal protein (e.g., chicken, turkey) to promote digestion
• Omega-3 fatty acids to help reduce gastritis or gut inflammation
• Prebiotics to feed healthy gut bacteria
• Probiotics to replenish healthy gut bacteria

Foods for dogs with gastrointestinal problems are available over the counter (OTC) or by prescription. Your vet may recommend one over the other, depending on what’s causing your dog’s stomach issues. In some cases, a vet may recommend an OTC gastro dog food first, then switch to a prescription food if the OTC version doesn’t resolve a dog’s GI symptoms.

Gastrointestinal Dog Food: How It Helps

Gastrointestinal food for dogs can help relieve uncomfortable symptoms often associated with digestive issues, including: 

• Gas
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloating
• Reduced appetite
• Itchy skin (due to food allergies)

A veterinarian may recommend this type of food when a dog is experiencing persistent GI symptoms or has a chronic GI condition that could benefit from the food. These chronic conditions include:

• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Pancreatitis
• Food allergies: an allergic reaction to a specific ingredient, commonly an animal protein like chicken
• Food sensitivity or intolerance: difficulty digesting any ingredient

Gastrointestinal dog foods usually aren’t recommended for short-term tummy problems like acute vomiting. In these cases, a veterinarian may suggest a bland homemade diet that includes unseasoned, stomach-soothing ingredients like plain, boiled chicken, sweet potatoes, and canned pumpkin.

In addition to relieving GI symptoms, a gastrointestinal diet for dogs has many other benefits:

• Easy on the GI tract 
• Improves stool quality
• Supports immune health
• Reduces gut inflammation
• Restores healthy gut bacteria
• Provides complete and balanced nutrition

Even if you think your dog could benefit from gastrointestinal canine food, it is always best to talk to your veterinarian first. Your vet will review your dog’s medical history and perform a physical exam. They will also perform diagnostic testing to determine what’s causing your dog’s GI issues and decide if gastrointestinal food would be appropriate for your dog.

Dog Food for Gastrointestinal Health: 7 Vet-Recommended Picks

Many gastrointestinal dog foods are available, so deciding on just one can be challenging. Remember, though, that there’s no one “best” food for dogs with gastrointestinal problems. We recommend the formulas listed below, all providing complete and balanced nutrition.

Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin, a brand well known for high-quality dog food, offers a range of gastrointestinal formulas to help support healthy digestion. This low-fat diet is an excellent option for dogs with pancreatitis because the condition makes it difficult to absorb fat. Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Low Fat Dry for Dogs contains a reduced level of fat and enhanced levels of essential fatty acids, plus a tasty mix of highly digestible proteins, balanced dietary fibers and prebiotics to support a healthy gut.

Highlights

• Low fat
• Contains two types of fiber (soluble and insoluble) to improve stool quality and promote healthy digestion
• Contains omega-3 fatty acids, prebiotics, and highly digestible proteins
• Additional gastro diets available: Royal Canin Gastrointestinal High Fiber,  Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Moderate Calorie

Things to Consider

• Available only with a veterinary prescription
• Pricier than OTC GI dog food diets

Hill’s Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome Dry Dog Food

The digestive tract contains billions of microorganisms that make up the gut microbiome. When these elements work together, they help ensure healthy digestion. When they get disrupted, dogs often experience GI upset.

This Hill’s diet is specially designed to help restore a healthy gut microbiome and promote healthy digestion. It is recommended for dogs with GI issues that respond well to fiber. 

Highlights

• Contains an ingredient technology — ActivBiome+ TM — that promotes good gut health
• Has omega-3 fatty acids and two types of fiber (soluble and insoluble)

Things to Consider

• Requires a veterinary prescription
• Pricier than OTC GI dog food diets

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Dog HA Hydrolyzed Dry

Animal proteins are a great source of essential nutrients dogs need to thrive. However, they can also be a common source of food allergies in dogs.

Thankfully, a process called hydrolysis can break animal proteins down into pieces so small, they won’t trigger an allergic reaction. This diet from Purina contains hydrolyzed proteins and is a great option for dogs allergic to animal proteins.

Highlights

• Highly digestible
• Contains hydrolyzed proteins that won’t trigger an allergic reaction
• Formulated for puppies and adult dogs
• Two flavor options: chicken flavor and vegetarian

Things to Consider

• Requires a veterinary prescription.
• Pricier than OTC GI dog food diets

Hill’s Prescription Diet Dog i/d Canned Stew

Gastrointestinal dog foods are also available as wet food. This Hill’s diet is packed with nutritious ingredients that support healthy digestion for dogs with tummy issues, including omega-3 and -6 fatty acids and dietary fiber. It also contains antioxidants, which support immune health, as well as vitamins and electrolytes.

Highlights

• Easily digestible
• Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids to reduce inflammation
• Antioxidants to support a healthy immune system
• Fiber to improve stool quality and digestion
• Tasty chicken and vegetable flavor

Things to Consider

• Requires a veterinary prescription.

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Dog EN Gastroenteric Dry

This diet from Purina is full of ingredients to support your dog’s digestive and immune system, including prebiotics, antioxidants, and high-quality protein. It is also highly digestible and has a great flavor for dogs.

Highlights

• Highly digestible
• Prebiotics to feed healthy gut bacteria and support a balanced gut microbiome
• Antioxidants to support the immune system
• High-quality animal protein
• Fiber to improve stool quality and promote healthy gut motility

Things to Consider

• Requires a veterinary prescription
• Pricier than OTC GI dog food diets

Royal Canin Puppy Gastrointestinal Diet Dry

Puppies, like adult dogs, can have sensitive stomachs. However, if you’re looking for puppy food for sensitive stomach, it’s important to remember that not all GI diets may fit the bill.

Puppies’ dietary needs differ from those of adult dogs. So you’ll need a GI diet that’s specially formulated to support the unique nutritional needs of growing pups.

This diet from Royal Canin is specially formulated for puppies with long- and short-term GI issues. It is high in fat and calories to support your puppy’s healthy growth and development and is easy on the tummy.

Highlights

• High in fat and calories to support a puppy’s development
• Prebiotics to promote a healthy gut microbiome
• Fibers to improve stool quality and gut motility
• Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce gut inflammation
• Tasty 
• Highly digestible, high-quality animal proteins
• Vitamins and electrolytes to support development and a healthy immune system

Things to Consider

• Only for puppies.
• Requires a veterinary prescription
• Pricier than OTC GI dog food diets

Gastro Diet for Dogs Buying Guide

Here are some tips to follow when choosing a dog food for gastrointestinal problems: 

• Always consult with your vet. Your vet will determine whether a gastrointestinal food is appropriate for your dog and can recommend some foods to consider. 
• Read the label carefully. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets nutritional standards for all pet food. Check the label to ensure the diet provides complete and balanced nutrition for your dog’s life stage, according to AAFCO. Also scan for ingredients that support healthy gut function, including high-quality animal proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and prebiotics.
• Transition slowly to the new food. Your dog’s digestive system will need at least a few days to adjust to the new diet. Start with a ratio of about 25 percent new food to 75 percent old food, then gradually increase the ratio until your dog is eating only the new food.
• Be patient. You may not see improvement in your dog’s GI symptoms right away. Give the diet some time and be sure to monitor your dog’s symptoms. If the symptoms don’t improve, talk with your vet about trying another GI food.

The post What is Gastrointestinal Dog Food? Info and Veterinarian Product Picks appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Heart supplements can play a pivotal role in your dog’s heart health. They can help maintain cardiovascular function, improve overall wellness, and even help manage existing heart conditions, like congestive heart failure (CHF), mitral valve disease, and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). But it’s important to know how and when to use them and what to consider when looking for quality dog heart health supplements.

In this article, we’ll explore what heart supplements for dogs are and how they can help your dog’s heart function. Then we’ll cover when your vet might recommend them, and some vet-recommended options to consider for your dog’s heart.

What are Dog Heart Health Supplements?

Dog heart health supplements come in various forms, including pills, tablets, capsules, and liquids. As the name suggests, supplements are designed to be added to (or supplement) your dog’s regular diet. They are not a replacement for food or any heart medication your veterinarian prescribes.

Dog heart supplements contain naturally occurring ingredients that help promote good heart health. These may include:

• Taurine – As an amino acid (a basic building block of protein), taurine helps build protein to boost heart muscle strength. In dogs, taurine deficiency can cause DCM, a serious heart condition very common in medium and large-breed dogs.
• L-carnitine – Like taurine, L-carnitine is an amino acid. But it’s an essential amino acid because the only way your dog can get it is through diet and nutrition. L-carnitine plays a crucial role in producing energy to power heart cells. It can also be used to help treat DCM.
• Coenzyme Q-10 (CoQ-10) – This is an antioxidant that your dog’s body produces naturally, but in smaller quantities as they age. It helps support organs that use a lot of energy, like the heart and brain. Research shows it may help prevent heart disease and improve heart function in dogs. (1)
• Omega-3 fatty acids – These help reduce inflammation and the risk of arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm).
• Hawthorn – This berry is a powerful antioxidant that may also benefit dog heart function. It can help regulate blood pressure, stabilize weak or irregular heartbeats, and improve how well heart cells use oxygen. It is often used to help manage mild cases of CHF.
• Dandelion– This powerful plant is packed with potassium, which helps promote healthy heart function. Dandelion also helps drain fluids from around a dog’s heart, helping it pump more efficiently.

Though heart health supplements for dogs may provide valuable health benefits, they may not be suitable for every dog.

For example, dogs who eat a complete and balanced diet may get all the nutrients and vitamins they need from their food. And dogs with normal, healthy heart function may not derive any benefit from heart health supplements.

Most importantly, these supplements could interact with other medications in ways that may harm your pet. That’s why it’s vital to get your veterinarian’s okay before giving your dog any heart health supplements.

Why Your Vet Might Recommend a Dog Heart Supplement

There are several reasons why your vet might recommend a heart supplement for your dog. Here are four common scenarios:

Breed predisposition to heart disease: Some dog breeds, such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dobermans, and Boxers, are genetically predisposed to heart conditions like DCM or mitral valve disease. If your dog belongs to a breed with a higher risk of heart issues, your vet may recommend heart supplements as a preventive measure.

Managing heart disease: If your dog is already diagnosed with heart disease, your veterinarian has probably prescribed medication to help manage it. Some vets may also recommend supplements that can offer extra support. These could include supplements that address nutritional deficiencies or improve heart muscle function to improve your dog’s outcome.

Aging dogs: Even if your dog doesn’t have heart disease, as they age, their cardiovascular system can get weaker. Vets often recommend heart health supplements for senior dogs to help maintain good heart function and slow down any age-related wear and tear on the heart.

Lifestyle factors: Dogs who are overweight, less active, or exposed to environmental stress may be more prone to heart problems. So vets may recommend supplements to address these underlying health issues (e.g., by reducing inflammation or improving circulation) to help reduce the risk of heart disease.

5 Dog Heart Health Supplements Vets Recommend

Depending on your dog’s needs, here are some heart health supplements that could be good options to discuss with your vet.

Nutramax Welactin Omega-3 Supplement Liquid for Dogs

This easy-to-dose liquid supplement contains highly purified fish oil derived from cold-water species. It’s rich in two key Omega-3 fatty acids that help promote heart health in dogs — EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).

Omega-3s help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve overall heart health and function. As an added bonus, this supplement also promotes skin, coat, and joint health. Vets prefer this supplement for its efficacy, versatility, and substantial levels of high-quality DHA and EPA.

The bottle comes with a measuring spoon, so you can easily dispense the exact dose your dog needs, according to their weight. Just pour the liquid over your dog’s food once a day for dogs over 9 pounds, and every other day for dogs between 5-9 pounds.

Formula CV Capsules for Dogs & Cats

Packed with heart-healthy ingredients, this multi-benefit supplement works for both cats and dogs, so it’s great for multi-pet households. Formula CV contains a blend of CoQ-10, L-carnitine, taurine, and hawthorn, so it’s a good option for dogs with DCM.

In addition, it’s rich with potassium and magnesium — electrolytes that help dog muscles (like the heart) contract and relax. Plus, it provides Vitamin E, which helps keep canine blood vessels healthy.

Veterinarians often recommend Formula CV for dogs diagnosed with DCM or congestive heart failure (CHF) due to its targeted blend of ingredients.

Pet parents can administer the capsules directly or open them to sprinkle onto their dog’s food. Dosage and frequency vary depending on your pet’s weight. Your vet may also adjust the dosage according to your dog’s heart health needs.

This supplement has not been proven safe in pregnant dogs or dogs intended for breeding.

VetriScience Cardio Chews

If your dog prefers supplements that look and taste more like treats, these highly palatable chews could do the trick.

VetriScience Cardio Chews are formulated to help boost heart health and cardiac function in dogs of all ages…particularly those with existing heart concerns. Each chew contains an array of beneficial ingredients, including taurine, L-carnitine, CoQ-10, hawthorn, magnesium, potassium, and Vitamin E.

Together, these ingredients help maintain normal blood pressure, support heart muscle strength, ensure proper circulation, and reduce oxidative stress, which can damage heart cells.

Vets recommend this product because it offers a wide range of benefits in one convenient chew. Plus, the tasty chew appeals to even the pickiest dogs.

The recommended dose is one chew per 30 pounds of body weight. Like Formula CV, these chews have not been proven safe in pregnant dogs or dogs intended for breeding.

VetriScience Coenzyme Q10 Capsules

While multi-benefit supplements may be appropriate for some dogs, other dogs may require a more targeted approach.

These Coenzyme Q10 Capsules contain only one active ingredient — Coenzyme Q10. Yet this standalone supplement is a common choice for dogs with CHF or generally sub-optimal heart function.

CoQ10 delivers simple yet effective benefits for pets with low energy due to cardiac issues. It helps strengthen heart muscle function and support energy production in heart cells.

Some vets may recommend combining CoQ10 with other heart supplements for enhanced effects, depending on your dog’s specific needs.

The recommended dose is one capsule daily per 10 pounds of body weight. The supplement’s safety has not been proven safe in pregnant dogs or dogs intended for breeding.

VetriScience Cardio Strength Capsule

These capsules contain beneficial ingredients including taurine, L-carnitine, CoQ10, and other essential nutrients that support canine cardiac health. Together, these ingredients help maintain normal blood pressure, support heart muscle function, and ensure that cells have enough energy to function efficiently.

Veterinarians often recommend this supplement for dogs at risk of developing heart disease or those with early-stage heart disease. The capsules also benefit dogs with low cardiac output, which is when the heart pumps less blood than it should.

Cardio Strength capsules are safe for both dogs and cats, and they come in a convenient capsule form for easy dosing. The recommended dose is one capsule daily per 30 pounds of body weight.

Dog Heart Health Supplements: Tips and Safety

When considering heart supplements for your dog, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure their safety and effectiveness:

Talk with your veterinarian

Always consult your vet before adding supplements to your dog’s health regimen. Your veterinarian is the best judge of whether your dog is a good candidate for a heart health supplement. They can also recommend which supplement would be best, given your dog’s heart health and overall health needs.  

Your vet can also review your dog’s current medications to determine if there’s any chance of harmful interactions with potential supplements.

Do your homework

Like human health supplements, animal health supplements are not reviewed or regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Unfortunately, that could mean that what you see on the supplement label isn’t always what you get. So it’s important to do your research to ensure you’re dealing with a reputable supplement company. Look for products that have undergone third-party testing for purity and potency, as well as those developed by or recommended by veterinarians. 

If this sounds daunting to you, ask your veterinarian for guidance. Based on patient outcomes, they can recommend companies with a good reputation and proven track record.  

Follow the recommended dose

Be sure to follow the dose your veterinarian recommends, even if it’s lower than what’s on the supplement label. Your vet has the full picture of what’s going on with your dog’s health, including what other medications they may be taking.

And never exceed the dosage recommended for your dog on the supplement label. Though supplements can help your dog, they can also hurt. Giving your dog too much of certain nutrients, such as Omega-3s or CoQ10, can lead to adverse effects.

Monitor for side effects

Heart health supplements have few, if any, side effects. However, some dogs may experience side effects such as digestive upset, lethargy, or changes in appetite. And some supplements can cause adverse side effects if they interact with heart medications.

Ask your veterinarian about possible side effects you should watch out for when starting your dog on a heart health supplement.  If you notice any unusual behavior or symptoms after starting a new supplement, contact your vet right away.

Do not give human supplements to your dog

Human supplements are not safe for dogs. This is because dogs and humans metabolize drugs and supplements differently; what may be safe for you could be toxic to your dog.

Maintaining your dog’s heart health is crucial to their overall health and well-being, especially as they age. And dog heart health supplements can play an important role in how pet parents accomplish this. Always work with your veterinarian to determine the best options for your dog’s specific heart health needs. With the right combination of care and supplements (as well as plenty of cuddles), you can help your dog’s heart stay strong for years to come.

Reference

1. Kittipong Tachampa, et al. “Effects of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Cardiac Troponin I Level, Heart Rate Variability, and Echocardiographic Profiles in Canine with Myxomatous Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease: A Pilot Study.” The Thai Journal of Veterinary Medicine, vol. 48, no. 3, 1 Sept. 2018, pp. 443–452, https://doi.org/10.56808/2985-1130.2932.

The post 5 Dog Heart Health Supplements Veterinarians Recommend appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Anxiety in cats, whether short- or long-term, can be debilitating and significantly reduce quality of life, so managing it effectively is essential.

Fortunately, there are many ways to manage cat anxiety, one of which is through medications. We’re going to walk you through cat anxiety medication options and give you some at-home tips to help lessen your cat’s anxiety.

Anxiety Relief for Cats: Why It’s Important

You may wonder why cats get anxious. Various experiences trigger anxiety in cats, including improper socialization as kittens, trauma, illness, pain, loud noises, and major life events (e.g., a new baby). Separation anxiety is another common form of anxiety in cats.

Symptoms of cat anxiety usually start to appear in young adulthood, between 1 and 3 years of age. They range from mild to severe and include those listed below:

• Hiding
• Staring
• Aggression
• Mood changes
• Dilated pupils
• Avoiding eye contact
• Increased breathing
• Increased vocalization
• Changes in appetite and weight

Left unmanaged, anxiety can wreak havoc on a cat’s quality of life and their interactions with you, making daily life difficult for you and your cat. Therefore, managing it is crucial to your cat living a full, happy, and healthy life.

Working with your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist can help you identify the exact cause of your cat’s anxiety and develop a personalized treatment plan to manage it effectively. 

We stress the word “manage” because eliminating your cat’s anxiety is not a practical goal. Managing and reducing anxiety is achievable and can vastly improve your cat’s quality of life.

What Can I Give My Cat for Anxiety?

Before delving into specific anti-anxiety medications for cats, let’s first discuss the general available options.

Prescription medications: Prescription anxiety medications for cats typically come in pill form and are available only with a veterinary prescription. However, there are no FDA-approved anxiety medications for cats. The prescription medications are approved for use in people and are used “off-label” in cats.

Supplements: Cat anxiety supplements are commonly available over the counter and are added to your cat’s diet to help ease anxiety. They come in several formulations, including powders, drops, and chewable tablets.

Natural calming aids: Natural calming aids, such as pheromones (chemicals produced by the body), are also available over the counter and are a gentle way to help your cat feel calmer and less anxious. 

Managing anxiety takes a multi-modal approach, using the options above and behavioral modification. With a thorough history of your cat’s anxiety and medical history, your veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist will develop the ideal anxiety management plan for your cat.

4 Anxiety-Reducing Supplements for Cats

Here are some supplements to manage cat anxiety. There are no reported side effects with those listed below. Consult your veterinarian before giving your cat one of these supplements.

VetriScience Composure Calming Supplement

This supplement is a chewable tablet formulated to help cats who get anxious in specific situations, including veterinary visits and thunderstorms. The chews contain reportedly calming ingredients, such as the amino acids tryptophan and L-theanine.

The short-acting supplement takes effect within 30 minutes and lasts about four hours. It does not cause drowsiness or undesirable behavior changes and can be given up to twice daily or as needed to reduce anxiety.

Rescue Remedy

Rescue Remedy comes in a dropper bottle and helps relieve stress in anxiety-inducing situations, such as fireworks and travel. These drops can also be given after a stressful event to help cats calm down.

It is a natural product that contains flower ingredients, including rock rose and cherry plum. Give your cat four drops by mouth, or add the drops to your cat’s water bowl, as needed. You can adjust the number of drops according to your cat’s stress and anxiety levels.

Anxitane

Anxitane is an L-theanine chewable tablet that helps cats who get anxious around unfamiliar people and pets, new smells, and other specific situations. It does not cause drowsiness.

Anxitane is not for cats with a history of separation anxiety, severe phobias, or aggression. It should be given as a half tablet twice daily or as needed.

Purina Calming Care

Purine Calming Care is a probiotic supplement for reducing cat anxiety. It contains a strain of probiotics (“good bacteria”) that reportedly promotes calmness. The supplement also promotes positive behaviors, such as playing.

Purina Calming Care is a powder. For cats, one packet should be given daily according to your veterinarian’s instructions. 

Cat Anxiety Medication: 5 Prescription Options

Prescription medications for cat anxiety fit under several classifications of human anti-anxiety medications. They are ideal for cats with high levels of anxiety, who need more than supplements and behavioral modification to get their anxiety under control.

Always follow your veterinarian’s instructions for these medications. Here are a few prescription cat anxiety medication options:

Alprazolam (Xanax)

Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine. Benzodiazepines increase the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a brain chemical that promotes calmness. In cats, benzodiazepines are most useful when there’s a specific anxiety trigger, such as fireworks.

Alprazolam is short-acting and takes effect in about one to two hours. Side effects of alprazolam include drowsiness, increased appetite, and incoordination. It shouldn’t be used in cats with aggression because the medication could worsen the aggression.

Buspirone (Buspar)

Buspirone relieves anxiety in cats with urine-marking issues. It is an azapirone, a drug class that mimics the activity of serotonin, a “feel-good” chemical in the brain. Buspirone is given twice daily and can take up to eight weeks to take effect. Although buspirone increases loving behavior, it can cause nausea, dizziness, and decreased appetite.

Amitriptyline (Elavil)

Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), a form of antidepressant medication that relieves generalized anxiety in cats. TCAs increase serotonin and dopamine levels to improve and stabilize a cat’s mood. They are for long-term anxiety management and take effect in several weeks. 

In addition to pill form, amitriptyline can be formulated as an oral liquid or lotion. It is given once or twice daily according to veterinarian instructions. Common side effects include drowsiness, appetite changes, and dry mouth.

Fluoxetine (Prozac)

Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that increases serotonin levels and can take four to six weeks to take effect. It is given daily as a long-term medication to manage generalized anxiety. Side effects include appetite changes and digestive upset.

Paroxetine (Paxil)

Paroxetine is another SSRI. It can be used to treat moderate to severe generalized anxiety. Paroxetine takes about four to six weeks to take effect and is given once daily. This medication is less sedating than fluoxetine and stimulates appetite, potentially leading to weight gain. Other side effects include lethargy, infrequent grooming, and dry eye.

How to Help Cat Anxiety: Other Tips and Advice

Managing your cat’s anxiety requires patience, commitment, and consistency. The treatment plan may need to be adjusted according to how your cat responds.

In addition to cat anxiety medication and supplements, there are at-home strategies for effectively managing your cat’s anxiety:

Comfort your cat. Contrary to popular belief, comforting your cat when they’re anxious does not perpetuate their anxiety. Soothing your cat will help them feel safe and calm, reducing their anxiety.

Socialize your kitten early. The socialization window for kittens is 7 to 12 weeks of age. Exposing them to various situations, stimuli, and people will help them feel more comfortable and less anxious as they navigate their world. 

Provide environmental enrichment. Environmental enrichment provides mental stimulation and physical exercise, which can keep anxiety at bay. Examples of environmental enrichment include cat trees, scratching posts, and food puzzle toys.

Play calming music. If your cat has separation anxiety, playing calming music while you’re gone can soothe your cat’s nerves and help reduce their anxiety.

The post Cat Anxiety Medication: 9 Options to Consider appeared first on Great Pet Care.

When I was in veterinary school, my gastroenterology class — in which I learned about the digestive tract — was at 8 am. Let’s just say that seeing pictures of vomit, among other less-than-pleasant digestive issues, was not a fun way to start the morning.

As much as we’d rather not talk about it, vomiting is common in cats. It’s not always a medical emergency, but it should not be taken lightly, either.

In this article, we’ll explain why cats vomit yellow liquid, when to see your veterinarian about it, and how to treat it.

Cat Vomiting Yellow Liquid: Should You Worry?

If your cat is vomiting yellow liquid, you’re probably already worried, and that’s okay. Like many cat parents, you’re concerned about your feline friend and want to help them feel better.

The first thing to do is monitor your cat. Take note of when your cat vomits yellow liquid (e.g., first thing in the morning) and if they have other symptoms besides vomiting. Monitoring your cat will help you determine if you need to bring them to the vet or do at-home treatment according to your veterinarian’s recommendations.

The fact that your cat is vomiting yellow liquid does not automatically mean you have to seek professional help right away. However, some indications are worrisome and warrant a vet visit, including:

• Vomiting more than once per week
• Signs of systemic illness: lethargy, weight loss, not eating
• Behavior changes: less social, less playful, more withdrawn

Types of Yellow Cat Vomit

You’re probably not keen to look at your cat’s vomit, but its consistency is a helpful detail you can share with your veterinarian.

Yellow vomit gets its color from bile, a liquid produced and secreted by the liver to help digestion. The bile leaves the liver and enters the stomach when a cat eats.

The liquid consistency of yellow vomit comes from a mixture of bile and stomach acids. Yellow vomit can sometimes also be foamy.

Causes of Yellow Vomit

Here are the common causes of yellow vomit in cats:

Empty Stomach

If a cat misses or skips a meal, the bile in their stomach can irritate the stomach lining, causing vomiting. Vomiting because of an empty stomach in the morning is commonly called Bilious Vomiting Syndrome.

Gastritis

Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. It can occur if your cat has eaten something they shouldn’t have, such as a toxic plant or food in the trash. Cats can also get gastritis from a bacterial or viral infection. When the stomach lining gets irritated, cats may vomit bright yellow liquid.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, the digestive enzymes it produces seep out, wreaking havoc on other parts of the digestive system. Cats with pancreatitis may vomit yellow liquid and have other symptoms like diarrhea and nausea. Pancreatitis makes cats very ill and requires veterinary treatment.

Kidney Disease

The kidneys filter out toxins from the blood, among many other functions. With kidney disease, the kidneys stop functioning well, making cats extremely sick. Cats with kidney disease may vomit yellow liquid and have other signs of illness, like weight loss and reduced appetite.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism, the overactivity of the thyroid glands, occurs commonly in older cats. Some thyroid hormones play a role in bile production. Therefore, an overactive thyroid gland can result in an overproduction of bile, possibly leading to a cat vomiting yellow liquid.

Diabetes

Cats can vomit yellow liquid if their blood sugar levels are too high because of diabetes. Diabetes in cats causes other signs as well, including weight loss and excessive drinking and urinating.

Intestinal blockage

Sometimes cats eat foreign objects that get stuck in their intestines. This intestinal blockage can cause yellow vomiting and other symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. An intestinal blockage is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate surgery.

Hairballs

When cats groom, they swallow some of the excess hair. Cats cannot digest this hair, so it can accumulate in the stomach and form a hairball. When a cat vomits up a hairball, there may also be some yellow liquid along with it.

Treatment

Although not all causes of vomiting yellow liquid indicate a medical emergency, don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian if you’re concerned about your cat’s vomiting.

When you bring your cat in for an appointment, your vet will perform a physical exam and take a complete history, including when the vomiting started, what the vomit looks like, and if your cat has other symptoms.

Next, they will conduct some diagnostic testing to try to determine what’s causing the yellow vomit. Tests may include:

• Bloodwork
• Urinalysis
• Fecal exam
• Thyroid testing
• Abdominal X-ray
• Abdominal ultrasound

Treating cats for vomiting yellow liquid generally involves supportive care and managing the underlying cause. Examples of supportive care include:

• Anti-nausea and anti-vomiting medications
• Fluid therapy
• Bland diet

Cats with severe symptoms can require hospitalization to help them recover and regain their strength.

Managing the underlying cause will depend on the specific health condition. For example, administering thyroid medication for hyperthyroidism or insulin for diabetes.

My Take on Yellow Cat Vomit

Yellow cat vomit isn’t pleasant, but it is treatable. Figuring out why your cat is vomiting yellow liquid will help you start treatment sooner and help your cat feel better that much more quickly.

If my cat were vomiting yellow liquid, I would watch them at home to see when it’s occurring and if they have other symptoms of illness. I would also contact my veterinarian and take my cat in for diagnosis and treatment if they looked unwell.

It’s understandable to be worried about your cat vomiting yellow liquid. Do your best to figure out why and get them the treatment they need sooner rather than later.

The post Cat Vomiting Yellow Liquid: Causes and Treatment appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Talking about digestive issues isn’t fun, but knowing what might be ailing your cat’s tummy is important. We’ll discuss gastroenteritis and its causes and how to diagnose, treat, and prevent this condition.

What Is Gastroenteritis in Cats?

Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the lining of the stomach (“gastro”) and intestines (“enteritis”). It ranges from mild to severe, depending on the underlying cause. 

Gastroenteritis can make a cat’s abdomen painful and sensitive to the touch. Mild cases resolve on their own in a few days, but severe cases require a longer recovery and extensive treatment to nurse affected cats back to good health.

Gastroenteritis can recur. For example, if your cat loves eating a plant that upsets their tummy, they’ll have repeated bouts of gastroenteritis.

What Causes Cat Gastroenteritis?

Anything that can inflame the lining of the stomach and intestines can cause gastroenteritis. All cats, regardless of age, breed, or sex, can develop this condition.

Here’s a list of the common causes of gastroenteritis in cats:

Infections

Infections with bacteria, fungi, viruses, or intestinal parasites can cause gastroenteritis in cats.

Dietary indiscretion

Eating spoiled food from the trash can undoubtedly upset a cat’s tummy enough to cause gastroenteritis.

Rapid dietary changes

Cats need a few days for their stomach to adjust to a new diet. Changing their diet too quickly can upset their digestive system and cause gastroenteritis.

Food allergies

Animal proteins are a common cause of food allergies in cats. Food allergens can irritate the stomach and intestines, leading to gastroenteritis.

Systemic disease

Kidney disease, pancreatic disease, and liver disease can contribute to gastroenteritis in cats.

Endocrine disease

Endocrine diseases result from hormone imbalances. Hyperthyroidism and diabetes, two common endocrine conditions in cats, can lead to gastroenteritis.

Intestinal blockage

If a cat eats something like a string that gets stuck in their intestines, that blockage can irritate the digestive tract lining enough to cause gastroenteritis.

Cancer

Cancer in the stomach or intestines can damage the lining of these organs and cause gastroenteritis.

Intussusception

Intussusception occurs when a section of the intestine “telescopes” into another part, causing blockage and leading to gastroenteritis.

Medication

Medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines.

Poisoning

Ingesting something toxic, like insecticides and pesticides, can inflame a cat’s stomach and intestines.

Gastroenteritis in Cats Symptoms

Cats can’t hold their belly to signal that their tummy hurts, but they will let you know that something isn’t right.

The two key symptoms of gastroenteritis are vomiting and diarrhea. Vomiting is caused by stomach irritation, while diarrhea is caused by intestinal irritation. 

The vomit may be yellow and foamy, especially if your cat vomits on an empty stomach. Sometimes, cats dry heave and gag after eating if they haven’t fully emptied their stomach.

Gastroenteritis-associated diarrhea in cats has a soft-serve ice cream consistency (apologies if this just ruined your next ice cream outing). Cats with gastroenteritis typically have large amounts of diarrhea several times a day. 

Here are other symptoms of gastroenteritis in cats to watch for:

• Gas
• Lethargy
• Reduced appetite
• Social withdrawal/isolation
• Tender, painful abdomen

Diagnosing Feline Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is considered a diagnosis of exclusion, diagnosed after other health conditions are ruled out. However, a gastroenteritis diagnosis does not indicate its cause; your veterinarian may need to perform diagnostic testing to determine that.

Because many cases of feline gastroenteritis in cats are mild and resolve on their own, not every cat with tummy troubles needs a veterinary visit. Your vet can recommend some home remedies to relieve your cat’s discomfort.

How will you know if you need to schedule an appointment? Here are three indications:

• The symptoms have persisted for more than 24 hours
• Your cat has recurrent gastroenteritis
• Symptoms other than vomiting and diarrhea are present

During a veterinary workup for gastroenteritis, your vet will perform a physical exam and get a detailed history of the problem. They will ask you questions, such as those listed below, to start identifying some potential underlying causes:

• What symptoms have you noticed? When did they start?
• What is your cat’s regular diet? Have you changed it recently?
• Is your cat on antibiotics, steroids, or NSAIDs?
• Does your cat have other medical conditions, like diabetes or liver disease?
• Is your cat up to date on their vaccinations?
• Do you have other cats?

For the physical exam, your vet will pay close attention to your cat’s abdomen in addition to examining your cat from head to toe.

Imaging and laboratory tests provide clues for what’s causing a cat’s gastroenteritis:

• Bloodwork: Basic bloodwork can indicate inflammation, dehydration, and systemic disease, as well as diabetes.
• Fecal exam: A fecal exam can show the presence of intestinal parasites, like roundworms.
• Urinalysis: Urinalysis can detect diabetes, dehydration, and kidney disease.
• Thyroid hormone tests: Measuring thyroid hormone levels helps rule out or identify hyperthyroidism.
• Abdominal imaging: Abdominal x-rays and ultrasounds can identify an intestinal blockage and may also reveal possible tumors in the stomach or intestines.

Gastroenteritis in Cats Treatment

If you’re wondering how to treat gastroenteritis in cats, the answer is that it depends on the severity and underlying cause.

Gastroenteritis in Cats Home Treatment

Mild cases of feline gastroenteritis don’t require much treatment beyond fasting your cat for about 8 to 12 hours and ensuring adequate hydration. Cats with gastroenteritis don’t have much of an appetite anyway. Still, they need to drink water to rehydrate and replenish electrolytes like sodium that were lost in the vomit and diarrhea.

After fasting, the cat can slowly be reintroduced to food with a bland, highly digestible diet, like white rice and boiled, unseasoned chicken. Your vet can advise you on which foods to give your cat after fasting.

Hospital Treatment

Severe cases of gastroenteritis require hospitalization. In addition to fasting and bland diets, cats with severe gastroenteritis need a range of treatments to recover and regain their strength, such as:

• Intravenous fluids: IV fluids provide rehydration and replace electrolytes.
• Anti-vomiting medications: Anti-vomiting medications include maropitant and metoclopramide. Both are given by mouth.
• Gastroprotectants: Gastroprotectants, such as sucralfate, famotidine, and ranitidine, coat the stomach lining and protect it from further irritation, allowing it to heal. They are given by mouth or intravenously.
• Antibiotics: Antibiotics are given if a bacterial infection is present. Usually, the antibiotic is broad-spectrum, targeting a wide range of common bacterial pathogens. They are given by mouth or intravenously.
• Dewormer: If intestinal parasites are present, dewormers are given. Examples include pyrantel and praziquantel. They are liquid and given by mouth.

Surgery is required for cats with gastroenteritis due to intestinal blockage.

So, how much does it cost to treat your cat for gastroenteritis? It varies. If your cat’s case is mild, you may not have to pay anything if you already have the ingredients for a bland diet at home and your vet does not think your cat needs to be examined.

For severe cases requiring hospitalization, expect a very large veterinary bill that could reach thousands of dollars. Here’s what goes into that bill:

• Physical exam
• Diagnostic testing
• Medication
• Fluid therapy
• Surgery (if cancer or blockage)
• Hospitalization
• Monitoring

Pet insurance can significantly defray the cost of treating your cat for gastroenteritis.

How to Prevent Gastroenteritis in Cats

Gastroenteritis is not always preventable, but you can reduce the risk of your cat suffering from it. Here are some prevention strategies to keep your cat in good health and keep gastroenteritis at bay:

• Keep your cat up to date on their vaccinations.
• Take your cat for regular veterinary check-ups.
• Block access to non-foods, toxic substances, and the trash.
• If you have multiple cats and one is sick, isolate the sick cat to prevent the spread of infection.
• Keep your home environment clean to reduce the chances of infection.
• Give your cat a dewormer as instructed by your veterinarian.
• Introduce new foods slowly to allow your cat’s tummy to adjust.

Related Conditions

• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Gastritis

The post Gastroenteritis in Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Although the chances of your cat having a stroke are low, it will be helpful for you to know the symptoms of strokes in cats and how to respond in case your cat has one and needs help.

Can Cats Have Strokes?

Yes, cats can have strokes, but it’s unlikely. Strokes in cats are classified according to how the stroke occurred:

Ischemic stroke. A blood clot either forms in one of the brain’s blood vessels (thrombus) or travels from another part of the body to the blood vessel in the brain (embolus).

Hemorrhagic. One of the brain’s blood vessels bursts. Leakage from the damaged vessel increases pressure within the brain and damages brain tissue.

Within these two broad classifications, many underlying health conditions, including those listed below, can cause a cat’s stroke. However, in most cases of cat strokes, the cause is unknown.

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Hyperthyroidism
• Migrating parasites
• High blood pressure
• Cancer that has spread to the brain

Any breed of cat can have a stroke. Strokes usually occur in adult cats around 9 years of age (1), but they can occur at any age.

Symptoms of a Stroke in a Cat

Cat stroke symptoms appear suddenly and are at their worst within the first 24 hours after the stroke occurs. Several factors determine the severity of stroke symptoms in cats, including: 

• Area of brain tissue damage
• Extent of brain tissue damage
• How long the brain has been deprived of blood and oxygen

Here’s a list of common symptoms of strokes in cats:

• Blindness
• Unequal pupil sizes
• Rapidly moving pupils
• Muscle spasms
• Weakness
• Head tilt
• Seizures
• Circling
• Arched body
• Stumbling
• Disorientation
• Sudden collapse
• Abrupt behavioral changes 
• Head pressing against a wall

The stroke symptoms related to the eyes (unequal pupil sizes, rapid pupil movement, blindness) occur because the nerves that control eye movement and vision originate in the brain. The eyes will be affected if brain damage from a stroke occurs near these nerves.

The brain plays an essential role in muscle movement and coordination. A stroke will affect your cat’s ability to walk and move about normally. If your cat is having a stroke, you will likely see symptoms like stumbling, circling, and muscle spasms.

The brain also plays a key role in a cat’s behavior. Brain damage from a stroke could cause abrupt changes in behavior. For example, a cat who is usually docile and laid back may suddenly become aggressive and act out of character. You may also see unusual behavior like head pressing.

Be aware that many of these symptoms also occur with other neurologic conditions in cats, like vestibular disease, which affects a cat’s balance and coordination. 

What to Do If You Suspect Your Cat is Having a Stroke

If you think that your cat is having a stroke, act quickly. Take your cat to your veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment. Strokes can cause permanent brain damage and possibly be fatal, so do not waste time getting your cat to your vet.

Because the symptoms of strokes in cats resemble those of other neurologic conditions, your vet will need to rule out these other diseases. First, your vet will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your cat. Provide your vet with as many details as possible, such as those listed below:

• Signs that you noticed
• When the signs started
• Current medical conditions
• Any history of neurologic issues, including previous strokes

Your vet will then do diagnostic testing to confirm that your cat is having a stroke. This diagnostic work-up includes basic lab work, such as bloodwork, a fecal exam, and urinalysis. This lab work can help identify underlying diseases, such as kidney disease or diabetes, that could contribute to a stroke.

Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid, which is the fluid in the brain and spinal cord, can also help diagnose strokes. A blood test called a D-dimer test can help identify abnormal blood clots that may have caused the stroke.

Advanced diagnostic testing, such as CT (computed tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), can detect brain abnormalities. Your vet would likely need to refer you to another facility for advanced imaging.

The earlier that treatment starts (ideally within the first 24 hours of the stroke), the better the chances of survival and recovery. Treatment is supportive and requires hospitalization. Here is a list of treatments for cats having a stroke:

• Oxygen supplementation
• Intravenous fluid therapy
• Seizure medications, if necessary
• Feeding/adequate nutrition
• Treating underlying conditions
• Assistance with peeing and pooping
• Physical therapy
• General comfort

Cat Stroke Prognosis

With early treatment, most cats having a stroke will recover and regain most of their motor skills. Also, cats with relatively mild symptoms and good overall health tend to recover well after a stroke. 

However, successful treatment is not guaranteed, especially if the underlying cause cannot be identified and treated. Delayed treatment can also make a good recovery less likely because of the potential for significant and possibly permanent brain damage. In these cases, cats who survive will likely have permanent motor deficits.

Your vet will be able to determine your cat’s prognosis after examining and diagnosing your cat and observing how they respond to treatment. If your vet was able to pinpoint the underlying cause of your cat’s stroke, your cat may need lifelong therapy to manage that condition and prevent another stroke.

Quality of life is reasonably good for cats who recover well from a stroke, but life could be more difficult for cats whose symptoms were severe and who permanently lost some of their motor skills.

Reference

1. Altay, Ulrike Michal et al. “Feline cerebrovascular disease: clinical and histopathologic findings in 16 cats.” Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association vol. 47,2 (2011): 89-97. doi:10.5326/JAAHA-MS-5480

The post 14 Cat Stroke Symptoms to Watch For appeared first on Great Pet Care.

In this article, you’ll learn why treating dog diarrhea is important and what medications can help get your dog’s poop back to normal. We’ll also offer vet-approved tips for treating this unpleasant digestive condition effectively.

Dog Diarrhea Relief: Why it’s Important

Diarrhea in dogs isn’t a diagnosis unto itself. Rather, it’s a symptom of an underlying problem. In dogs with diarrhea, food moves so quickly through the digestive tract that they can’t properly absorb water, nutrients, and electrolytes. As a result, dog poop becomes loose and watery instead of firm and formed. Sometimes, the diarrhea contains blood or mucus.

Diarrhea typically makes dogs feel pretty lousy. But it can also cause serious health consequences due to extreme fluid loss. Puppy diarrhea, for example, can be life-threatening because a puppy’s body isn’t robust enough to deal with dehydration. Diarrhea in senior dogs and dogs with weakened immune systems is also dangerous.

Because diarrhea can affect your dog’s overall health, diarrhea relief is essential to help “reset” the digestive system and restore normal function. 

For many dogs, at-home remedies like rest, rehydration, and fasting, may be enough to relieve diarrhea.  But in severe cases or when a specific pathogen is to blame, your vet may recommend anti-diarrhea medicine. 

Dog Diarrhea Medication Types

There are plenty of dog diarrhea medicine options on the market. However, not all are created equal, and some may even do your dog more harm than good 

To help you understand the differences, here’s a quick overview of over-the-counter (OTC) anti-diarrheal medicines, probiotics, and prescription drugs designed to treat diarrhea in dogs.

OTC anti-diarrheal medicines

You’ve probably seen OTC anti-diarrheal medicines like Imodium, Kaopectate, and Pepto Bismol on the shelves of your local grocery store or pharmacy. These medicines relieve diarrhea and other kinds of GI upset (stomachache, nausea, etc) in people. 

Imodium works by slowing down the movement of food through the digestive tract. Kaopectate and Pepto Bismol have active ingredients that coat and protect the intestinal lining. 

However, be aware that these human medicines could harm your dogs. For example, the active ingredients in Pepto Bismol and Kaopectate can be toxic to dogs. And Imodium carries a risk for potential side effects that could endanger your dog. 

Never use these medicines to treat your dog’s diarrhea without your veterinarian’s approval! If your vet recommends an OTC diarrhea medication for your pet, follow their dosing instructions carefully. And be sure to report any concerns or changes in your dog’s health promptly.

Probiotic supplements

A dog’s gut (like our own) contains billions of healthy bacteria. They help with digestion, promote a robust immune system, and prevent harmful bacteria from overwhelming the gut. Diarrhea depletes these good bacteria. 

Probiotic supplements can help relieve dog diarrhea by boosting beneficial gut bacteria. That re-establishes a healthy balance and promotes healthy digestion. 

There are many probiotic supplements on the market formulated for humans. While these won’t hurt your dog, a probiotic designed for dogs is a better choice. Humans and dogs have different intestinal flora. A species-specific probiotic will give your dog the best boost for your buck. 

Prescription anti-diarrheal medicines

Prescription dog diarrhea medications often treat a specific diarrhea-causing pathogen. For example, your veterinarian may prescribe an antibiotic like metronidazole for diarrhea caused by intestinal inflammation. But if intestinal parasites are causing your dog’s loose stools, a broad-spectrum dewormer like Panacur (fenbendazole) would be in order.  

Your vet may also prescribe dog-safe medications that work like OTC human solutions. For example, diphenoxylate is an anti-diarrheal medicine for dogs that works like Imodium to slow digestion.

Best Medicine for Dog Diarrhea: 6 Top Picks

Diarrhea is the body’s way of getting rid of something harmful. In some cases, your veterinarian may say it’s okay to allow dog diarrhea to run its course (no pun intended). But if there is an underlying health cause or the diarrhea is severe, your vet will likely treat it with an anti-diarrheal medication. 

Here are several diarrhea medications for dogs that vets typically recommend for dog diarrhea. and are worth considering:

Metronidazole

Metronidazole (known by the brand names Flagyl, Metizol, Protostat, and Metrogel) is a prescription antibiotic and antiprotozoal, which means it kills bacteria and parasites that cause diarrhea in dogs. It is usually given orally. Your vet will prescribe this if they have determined that a bacteria or protozoal parasite has caused your dog’s diarrhea.

Although rare, metronidazole for dogs can cross the blood-brain barrier (enter the brain from the bloodstream) and cause neurological symptoms. It can also cause side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and appetite loss.

Proviable DC Capsules

These capsules are a probiotic supplement that helps restore normal levels of healthy gut bacteria after the loss of these bacteria through diarrhea. The capsules contain seven species of live beneficial bacteria and are given once daily by mouth or as directed by your vet.

Proviable Forte Chewable Tablets

These chewable tablets are another probiotic supplement that promotes good gut health in dogs. They contain the same beneficial bacteria that are in the Proviable capsules and are given once daily by mouth or as directed by your vet.

Rx Clay Powder

This powder works in two ways to relieve diarrhea. First, it adsorbs toxins that are produced by harmful bacteria in the gut. Adsorption binds the toxins to the clay, which is then excreted from the body (carrying the harmful toxins along with it). Second, the clay promotes water reabsorption in the digestive tract, decreasing water loss through diarrhea.

Because the body does not absorb the clay, there is minimal risk of overdose. Give one scoop to your dog by mouth for every 10 pounds of body weight or as directed by your vet.

Endosorb Tabs

Endosorb tabs are chewable tablets that provide diarrhea relief by restoring normal stool consistency. One of its active ingredients is attapulgite, which coats and soothes the intestinal lining. 

The tablets are given by mouth every four hours according to body weight, as directed by your vet.

Nutrigest Capsules

These capsules help restore and maintain the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut and repair the inflammation and irritation of the intestinal lining caused by diarrhea. Its active ingredients include probiotics and glutamine, an amino acid (building block of protein). Ingredients such as aloe soothe the intestinal lining.

The capsules are given two to three times daily according to body weight, as directed by your vet.

How to Choose Diarrhea Medication for Dogs

Always work with your veterinarian to determine the best way to treat your dog’s diarrhea. Your vet may want to examine your dog first and run a few diagnostic tests to decide the best treatment. 

They will consider several factors before recommending the proper treatment plan:

• Cause, severity, and duration of diarrhea
• Additional symptoms
• Age
• Overall health

Follow your vet’s treatment plan exactly. If your vet says your dog needs diarrhea medicine, they will recommend which prescription or OTC medicine to use.

As with treating any health condition, treating your dog’s diarrhea may involve some trial and error. Monitor your dog’s symptoms and update your vet regularly. Let them know if your dog’s diarrhea is improving, staying the same, or worsening. The treatment plan may need to be adjusted according to how your dog responds to the treatment.

Dog Diarrhea Medication Tips

Diarrhea isn’t pleasant for your dog or you, so we know that you will want your dog’s diarrhea resolved quickly and successfully. Here are a few tips to increase your chances of successfully treating your dog’s diarrhea:

• Do not wait to start treatment. Contact your vet when you notice that your dog has diarrhea. The quicker you respond to it, the sooner your dog can be on the road to recovery.
• Follow your vet’s instructions carefully. Whether your vet advises home remedies or medication, follow their instructions to ensure the best possible response to treatment. 
• Monitor your dog. Notify your vet immediately if the diarrhea is not improving and your dog’s health is getting worse.

Dog Diarrhea Medication FAQs

If your dog has diarrhea, you probably have questions about diarrhea in general and how to treat it.

How long is too long for a dog to have diarrhea? 

Most cases of diarrhea in dogs resolve themselves in 1 to 2 days. Contact your vet if the diarrhea has not resolved in a few days.

What should I give a dog with diarrhea and vomiting? 

Dogs with tummy issues don’t feel like eating much, or at all. Because diarrhea and vomiting can cause significant fluid loss, adequate hydration is essential.

Make sure your dog has free access to fresh, clean water. Contact your vet if you need help encouraging your dog to drink water.

Is it safe to give human medications to dogs with diarrhea? 

Human anti-diarrheal medications are an option, but their ingredients can be toxic to dogs. These medications can also interact with other medications. Do not give human anti-diarrheal medicines to your dog unless advised by your vet.

The post Diarrhea Medicine for Dogs: 6 Vet-Prescribed Treatments appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Like people, dogs can suffer from anxiety. If not well managed, this anxiety can negatively affect a dog’s emotional well-being and physical health.

Anxiety cannot be cured, but it can be managed with over-the-counter (OTC) anti-anxiety products, prescription medications, and behavioral modification, according to a veterinarian’s treatment recommendations.

Let’s take a closer look at why anxiety relief for dogs is so important and explore some OTC and prescription dog anxiety medication options to consider.

Anxiety Relief for Dogs: Why It’s Important

We all feel anxious occasionally, and our dogs are no different. A stressful situation or environment usually triggers that anxious feeling. Anxiety becomes a problem in our dogs when it is not well controlled and is allowed to grow unchecked. 

The most common root causes of anxiety in dogs include fear, separation, and aging.

Fear-related anxiety may be short-lived and is often triggered by loud noises, strange or unfamiliar environments, and unfamiliar animals. 

Dogs with separation anxiety become anxious and can’t calm themselves down when separated from their family members. Symptoms of separation anxiety include engaging in destructive behavior and having bathroom accidents in the home.

Senior dogs can become anxious and confused when they begin to lose their memory and awareness, signaling the onset of canine cognitive dysfunction. Canine cognitive dysfunction resembles human dementia. 

Other situations, such as pain and unfamiliar scents, can also trigger anxiety in dogs.

Anxiety symptoms may be obvious or subtle and vary in their intensity and frequency:

Obvious symptoms

• Pacing
• Panting
• Drooling
• Avoidance
• Trembling
• Aggression
• Restlessness
• Appetite loss
• Destructive behavior
• Bathroom accidents
• Whining and crying

Subtle symptoms

• Yawning
• Licking the lips 
• Ears pulled back

Left unchecked, anxiety in dogs can cause behavioral issues like aggression and self-injury. Chronic anxiety can take a toll on a dog’s physical health, increasing the risk of allergies and digestive problems like inflammatory bowel disease.

If you think your dog is anxious, take them to your veterinarian and provide a detailed history of your dog’s anxiety. Your vet can help you identify the trigger(s) and develop an individualized treatment plan, which may include dog anxiety medication.

What Can I Give My Dog for Anxiety?

Managing anxiety in dogs takes a multi-modal approach with medication and behavioral modification, which we’ll discuss later in the article. Even with many treatment options available, remember there are no quick fixes. Also, there is no ‘one size fits all’ management approach, and treatment may need to be tweaked over time.

OTC options to manage dog anxiety do not require a veterinary prescription. For example, aromatherapy with calming scents (e.g., lavender) and pheromone collars and diffusers can reduce dog anxiety. Pheromones are natural body chemicals that our pets release into the environment. 

Other non-prescription anti-anxiety medications for dogs are formulated as chews, tablets, and drops. CBD has become widely popular for reducing anxiety, especially in people. CBD chews are available for dogs, but research on CBD’s use and safety in dogs is still relatively new and ongoing.

Prescription dog anxiety medication is used for cases of severe anxiety but can also be used to relieve short-term anxiety, such as before a thunderstorm or fireworks. These are typically human medications that are used ‘off label’ (not the FDA-approved indication) in dogs.

Always consult your veterinarian before starting your dog on an anti-anxiety medication or product.

5 Supplements and OTC Anxiety Meds for Dogs

Several OTC medications and anxiety supplements for dogs are available to manage anxiety.

Solliquin

Solliquin is a daily chewable tablet containing two plant extracts — magnolia and phellodendron — to help calm anxious dogs. It also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that is safe for dogs and has been shown to relieve dog anxiety. 

Purina Pro Plan Calming Care Supplement

This powdered supplement is sprinkled onto food and given daily according to veterinarian instructions. It contains probiotics, which are good gut bacteria. The probiotic strain in this supplement, BL999, has been shown to reduce anxious behavior and help dogs maintain calm behavior in stressful situations.

VetriScience Composure Bite Size Chews for Dogs

These calming chews are intended for dogs whose anxiety is triggered by environmental stressors, such as moving or a veterinary visit. It contains three calming ingredients for dogs: L-theanine, thiamine (vitamin B1), and a proprietary protein mix. These chews can be given as needed or daily.

Rescue Remedy drops

Rescue Remedy drops are a popular choice for reducing anxiety in dogs. The drops, which contain a blend of floral extracts, can be given when a dog is in pressure- or anxiety-inducing environments, like loud noises or after a sudden fright. They can be added to food or water and repeated as needed to calm your dog in stressful situations.

ThunderWunders Calming Chews for Dogs

These calming chews are recommended to relieve dog anxiety triggered by thunder and fireworks, travel, vet and groomer visits, and separation anxiety. They contain ginger to settle anxiety-induced stomach upset, along with L-theanine and L-tryptophan (an amino acid) to reduce anxiety. Other ingredients include a flower extract and melatonin.

These chews can be given to dogs 12 weeks and older and should be given during or after a meal to prevent stomach upset. 

Dog Anxiety Medication: 7 Prescription Options

Prescription anti-anxiety medications for dogs may be given long-term or short-term for anxiety relief, depending on a dog’s type and severity of anxiety. They change levels of neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) that play a role in anxiety.

These prescription dog anxiety medications may interact with other medications and often have side effects that can be uncomfortable but are generally tolerable. Review your dog’s current medication list with your veterinarian before starting a dog anxiety medication.

Clomicalm

Clomicalm (generic name: clomipramine) comes in tablet form and treats separation anxiety in dogs. It is a tricyclic antidepressant, a class of drugs that is commonly used to treat depression with anxiety and other mental health conditions in people. 

When used with behavioral modification, Clomicalm helps reduce separation anxiety-related behaviors, including inappropriate elimination and destructive behavior. It is given with food and may cause side effects such as vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea.

Reconcile

Reconcile (generic name: fluoxetine) is a chewable tablet. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), a drug class that blocks the reuptake of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps manage anxiety. Increased serotonin levels in the brain help reduce anxiety.

Reconcile treats separation anxiety and is given once daily. Potential side effects include appetite loss, stomach upset, and depression.

Alprazolam

Alprazolam (brand name: Xanax) is a short-acting anti-anxiety medication. It is available as a tablet or liquid and should be given about 30 to 60 minutes before an anxiety-inducing event, such as fireworks.

Alprazolam can be given on an empty stomach but also with food to reduce stomach upset. Potential side effects include lethargy, increased appetite, and incoordination.

Buspirone

Buspirone (brand name: BuSpar) is another short-acting anti-anxiety medication. It comes in tablet form and, like alprazolam, can be given with or without food.

Buspirone’s effects usually take several weeks to become apparent. Side effects include sleepiness, decreased appetite, and stomach upset.

Diazepam

Diazepam (brand name: Valium) has many uses, one of which is reducing anxiety in dogs. It comes in liquid or tablet form and is given with or without food. 

Diazepam is short-acting and should be given about 1 hour before an anxiety-triggering event. It will take effect in about 1 to 2 hours. Side effects include incoordination, drooling, and increased appetite.

Trazodone

Trazodone (brand name: Desyrel) is an SSRI that treats separation anxiety in dogs and anxiety triggered by situations like fireworks, vet visits, and travel. It is a tablet that can be given with or without food, depending on how well your dog’s stomach tolerates it.

Trazodone can be given for short-term anxiety (1 to 2 hours) or long-term anxiety treatment. Side effects are generally mild and include lethargy, vomiting, and increased appetite.

Sileo

Sileo (generic name: dexmedetomidine) is an FDA-approved gel that treats noise aversion in dogs. It is the first product of its kind. Sileo produces a calming effect without causing sedation, helping dogs stay alert as their anxiety levels decrease.

The gel is administered in a dog’s cheek pouch about 30 to 60 minutes before an anxiety-inducing event. Additional doses can be given (up to five) at least two hours apart. After administration, a dog should not be fed for at least 15 minutes to ensure absorption.

Potential side effects include pale gums and a drop in blood pressure.

How to Help Dog Anxiety: Other Tips and Advice

Managing your dog’s anxiety is a process. Work closely with your veterinarian to monitor your dog’s response to treatment and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Rather than being used alone, medication for dogs with anxiety is used with behavioral modification. Behavioral modification strategies include counterconditioning (replacing anxious behavior with a desirable behavior, like sitting) and desensitization. Your veterinarian may refer you to a veterinary behaviorist who will assess your dog’s anxiety and develop a customized treatment plan.

Several home strategies can also help reduce your dog’s anxiety, such as establishing and maintaining a routine and creating a safe space for your dog.

Be patient with your dog (and yourself) as you learn to manage your dog’s anxiety. In time, your dog’s anxiety will lessen, helping you and your dog breathe a welcome sigh of relief.

The post Dog Anxiety Medication: 12 Prescription and OTC Options appeared first on Great Pet Care.

In the Southern United States, there is no real “off season” for fleas, ticks, or mosquitoes. Veterinarians recommend using year-round parasite control to ensure your pet is always protected from these pests.

“Environmental and climate-related factors in the Southern U.S.—warm and humid—are favorable for the survival and proliferation of many different parasites, including fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, coccidian, and several worm species,” says Dr. Barbara Qurollo, research associate professor at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. “The wide variety of thriving vector species—mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks—increases the risk of vector-borne diseases, including heartworm disease, bartonellosis, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.”

Keep reading for a regional guide to heartworm disease, fleas, and ticks in the Southern states of Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas.

Heartworm Disease in the South

Heartworm is a serious and sometimes deadly parasite that affects dogs and cats. Although heartworm is found in all 50 states, the parasite is extremely prevalent in the South. Both dogs and cats can get heartworms through the bite of an infected mosquito. Untreated heartworm disease causes severe damage to the heart, lungs, and other organs, which can lead to death. For dogs, heartworm treatment is available, though it is lengthy and costly. No treatment is available for heartworm in cats. 

“Mosquitoes love the warmth, humidity, heavy rainfall, and hurricanes prevalent in the Southern United States,” says Dr. Jennifer Rizzo, president of the American Heartworm Society (AHS). “In areas where mosquito control measures do not exist, the risk increases further.”

The AHS has conducted periodic heartworm incidence surveys since 2001, tracking data from thousands of veterinarians who submit heartworm test results from their practices. The Southern United States, particularly the Mississippi Delta and Gulf Coast states, have the highest incidence of heartworm disease in the country. 

“In the latest AHS Heartworm Incidence Survey, which was conducted [in 2023] and analyzed data from 2022, the five states with the highest heartworm density were Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Alabama, and Arkansas,” says Dr. Rizzo, who practices in Gainesville, Florida. Many veterinary clinics in these states see more than 100 heartworm cases annually. In addition, Arkansas, Mississippi, Texas, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and the Carolinas all saw expansions of high-density areas.

Although not as impacted as the Deep South, veterinary hospitals in Delaware and Maryland reported an average of 6 to 25 heartworm cases per clinic annually.

Year-round heartworm prevention is imperative for any pet living in the South. Some vet-approved heartworm preventatives also kill fleas, ticks, and/or intestinal worms.

Fleas in the South

A flea infestation is the last thing any pet parent wants to deal with. Once well-established, fleas can be extremely difficult to eradicate in the pet, in the home, and in the yard and other outdoor areas. Although more than 2,000 flea species exist worldwide, most dogs and cats become infested with the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis). 

Adult fleas live on their host — in this case, a dog or cat — where they feed on the host’s blood and lay eggs. Adult female fleas lay eggs after each blood meal and can lay hundreds of eggs during their lifetimes. As the pet moves around, flea eggs drop off into the environment and remain there until they hatch a few days or weeks later. The larvae later form cocoons, incubating the fleas (pupal stage) until they are ready to hatch as adults.

Eliminating fleas completely requires killing all four life stages — adult fleas, eggs, larvae, and pupal. This can take several weeks or months of treatment as fleas move through the different life cycle stages. Using a vet-approved flea control product for dogs or cats is the best way to avoid fleas. 

Veterinarians recommend using flea protection all year. The warm and humid climate in the Southern United States is ideal for fleas. In fact, they are active year-round in many states in the South. All pets are at risk, including indoor pets, as fleas can hitchhike into the house on clothing and shoes. 

“As we have longer seasons of warm, humid weather, we will also have longer periods of parasite survival, vector activity, and potential disease transmission throughout the year,” Dr. Qurollo says.

Ticks in the South

Although many people call them “bugs,” ticks are not insects but tiny arachnids (related to spiders and scorpions). Ticks are common in wooded and brushy areas, as well as places animals frequent, like dog parks. Ticks usually cling to grass or other low-growing foliage and climb on to pets as they walk past and brush against these blood-suckers. Once on your pet, ticks bite into the skin and firmly attach themselves, where they feed on a blood meal. 

Ticks are highly prevalent in the South, and they carry serious risks of tick-borne disease for both pets and people. Like fleas, ticks can survive most of the year in the Southern United States, so they are always a risk to pets living in this region.

The Asian longhorned tick, a new invasive tick species in the U.S., has been found in Southern states, including Arkansas, Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, Kentucky, the Carolinas, and Tennessee. However, research is ongoing to determine whether these ticks are able to pass harmful germs along to people and animals. 

Experts recommend using year-round tick control, especially for pets that spend a lot of time outdoors. Many vet-approved tick control products kill multiple parasites, inducing fleas and/or heartworm.

Lyme Disease in the South

Lyme disease is transmitted to people and dogs by the blacklegged tick or deer tick (Ixodes scapularis). Although Lyme disease is the most prevalent tick-borne disease in the United States, it’s not a huge risk in the South, despite established populations of blacklegged ticks in the Southern U.S. The low incidence of Lyme disease in the South can be explained by the feeding habits of blacklegged ticks living in the North versus those living in the South.

“Northern blacklegged ticks prefer to feed on small rodents, which are reservoir hosts for Borrelia burgdorferi (bacteria that causes Lyme disease),” Dr. Qurollo says. “Southern blacklegged ticks prefer to feed on lizards, which are not typically infected with B. burgdorferi.”

Even though blacklegged ticks don’t spread a ton of Lyme disease in the South, these pests carry and transmit other dangerous diseases, including anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and bourbon virus.

Here is a snapshot of some of the common tick-borne diseases that can affected pets in the South and the tick species that are involved: 

• Anaplasmosis – Deer tick/blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) 
• Babesiosis – Brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) 
• Bourbon virus: Lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum)
• Ehrlichiosis – Lone star tick, brown dog tick, American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis)
• Heartland virus – Lone star tick
• Hepatozoonosis – Gulf Coast tick (Amblyomma maculatum), brown dog tick
• Lyme disease: Deer tick/blacklegged tick
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever – American dog tick, brown dog tick
• Tick-borne relapsing fever: Soft ticks
• Tick paralysis – Deer tick/blacklegged tick, American dog tick, Gulf Coast tick 
• Tularemia – American dog tick, lone star tick

Ticks in Alabama

If you love to be outdoors, Alabama is a dream with the foothills of the Appalachians, the beautiful beaches of the Gulf, 22 state parks, eight national parks, and an abundance of nature preserves. Find endless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors with your pet, including canoeing, fishing, hiking, camping, and more. Hunting is a popular pastime, and dogs are allowed at Alabama State Parks, as well as five beaches. Of course, parasite protection is an important part of any outdoor activity.

Alabama ticks can be active all year long, and tick-borne illnesses are reported year-round in the state, according to the Alabama Department of Public Health. Alabama tick diseases include Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease. 

Types of Ticks in Alabama Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick 
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Brown dog tick
• Gulf coast tick 
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in Alabama 

• Anaplasmosis 
• Babesiosis 
• Ehrlichiosis
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Tick paralysis
• Tularemia 

Ticks in Arkansas

Arkansas is known as the Natural State, and there’s certainly an abundance of outdoor fun for you and your pet, from kayaking the world’s longest bayou to hiking nature trails to exploring the 52 state parks and seven national parks, where leashed dogs are welcomed. 

Arkansas ticks can be active all year long, according to the Arkansas Department of Public Health. Arkansas tick diseases include common tick-borne diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever, as well as emerging diseases like heartland virus and bourbon virus. The risks these emerging viruses pose to dogs and cats is not yet well understood. 

Types of Ticks in Arkansas Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick 
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Brown dog tick
• Gulf coast tick 
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in Arkansas

• Anaplasmosis
• Bourbon virus
• Ehrlichiosis
• Heartland virus
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Tularemia 

Ticks in Delaware

With 17 state parks, one national park and nearly 400 miles of beautiful coastline, Delaware offers ample opportunities for adventure, whether hiking, paddling, or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery. Dogs are welcome at most state parks with some restrictions at state beaches in the warmer months.

Because the various species of Delaware ticks are active in different seasons, ticks are an issue all year long, according to Delaware’s Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. Delaware tick diseases include Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease. 

Types of Ticks in Delaware Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick
• Asian longhorned tick
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Brown dog tick
• Gulf coast tick
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in Delaware 

• Anaplasmosis
• Babesiosis 
• Ehrlichiosis
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever

Ticks in Florida

Whether hiking, camping, paddling, or hanging at the beach, the Sunshine State has something for everyone—pets included! Leashed dogs are allowed at most of Florida’s whopping 175 state parks and some of the state’s 11 national parks, and you’ll find a bunch of dog friendly beaches, too. 

Because the various types of ticks in Florida are active in different seasons, tick season in Florida is generally year-round, according to the Florida Department of Health. Diseases carried by Florida ticks include Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis.

Types of Ticks in Florida Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick 
• Argasid tick (soft tick)
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Gulf coast tick
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in Florida

• Anaplasmosis
• Babesiosis 
• Ehrlichiosis
• Heartland virus
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever 

Ticks in Georgia

If you love to explore, Georgia has a lot to offer, from waterfall hikes to camping, fishing, boating, paddling, and more. Dogs are welcome at the 63 Georgia State Parks, including all campgrounds and most hiking trails. Georgia even has some dog-friendly beaches. 

The different types of ticks in Georgia have varied active seasons, so ticks are found in Georgia most of the year. Georgia ticks carry common tick-borne diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever, as well as emerging diseases like heartland virus. 

Types of Ticks in Georgia Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick 
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Gulf coast tick
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in Georgia

• Anaplasmosis
• Babesiosis
• Bourbon virus
• Ehrlichiosis
• Heartland virus
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever

Ticks in Kentucky

The Bluegrass State might be known for its horses, but Kentucky has plenty of draw for dogs, too. With 45 state parks and six national parks, Kentucky is prime for playing outdoors. Whether hiking, paddling, or just taking in a view of the Appalachian Mountains, be sure your pet is prepped with the right parasite control.

Various types of ticks in Kentucky are active in different months, so tick control products are recommended year-round. Ticks in Kentucky carry common tick-borne diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever, as well as the rare but potentially fatal bacterial infection tularemia.

Types of Ticks in Kentucky Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick
• Asian longhorned tick
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Brown dog tick
• Gulf coast tick
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in Kentucky

• Anaplasmosis
• Ehrlichiosis
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Tularemia

Ticks in Louisiana

Whether you’re into hunting, fishing, camping, paddling, or hiking, Louisiana has a lot to offer pet loving adventurers. Dogs are welcome at Louisiana’s 38 state parks, five national parks, and many public beaches. 

Due to the varied months that the different Louisiana ticks are active, ticks are a threat to pets most the year. For this reason, veterinarians recommend using a parasite preventive that’s effective against ticks year-round. 

Types of Ticks in Louisiana Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Brown dog tick
• Gulf coast tick
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in Louisiana

• Babesiosis
• Ehrlichiosis 
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever 
• Tularemia

Ticks in Maryland

Maryland is a water-lover’s dream, with abundant beaches and waterways prime for sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and more. With 75 state parks and 16 national parks, there are plenty of places to explore. 

There are six types of ticks in Maryland, and some of them are active year-round. Maryland ticks carry many common tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Types of Ticks in Maryland Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick
• Asian longhorned tick
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Brown dog tick
• Gulf coast tick
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in Maryland

• Anaplasmosis
• Babesiosis
• Ehrlichiosis
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Tick paralysis
• Tularemia

Ticks in Mississippi

In the heart of the South, Mississippi has plenty of outdoor fun in store whether you enjoy fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, paddling, or sailing. Leashed pets are permitted in most of the 25 Mississippi State Parks and nine national parks. Some species of Mississippi ticks are active year-round, so pets are always at risk. 

Types of Ticks in Mississippi Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Brown dog tick
• Gulf coast tick
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in Mississippi

• Anaplasmosis
• Babesiosis
• Ehrlichiosis
• Heartland virus
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Tularemia

Ticks in North Carolina

North Carolina seems to have it all, from beaches to waterfalls to forests. Whether you’re up for camping, hiking, hunting, swimming, or paddling, North Carolina is perfect for adventure. Leashed dogs are welcome at North Carolina’s 41 state parks, 10 national park sites, and four national forests. 

Due to the various seasonality of different types of ticks in North Carolina, ticks are a risk year-round, though spring, summer, and fall are the most active months. Some common tick-borne diseases transmitted by North Carolina ticks include Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease, and ehrlichiosis.

Types of Ticks in North Carolina Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick
• Asian longhorned tick
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Brown dog tick
• Gulf coast tick
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in North Carolina 

• Anaplasmosis
• Ehrlichiosis
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Tularemia

Ticks in Oklahoma

There’s plenty to do with your pet in the gorgeous state of Oklahoma, whether you like swimming, hiking, boating or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery. Leashed dogs are welcome at Oklahoma’s 32 state parks and six national parks.

Oklahoma ticks carry several common tick-borne diseases, but the most significant is Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Five types of ticks in Oklahoma commonly affect pets.

Types of Ticks in Oklahoma Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Brown dog tick
• Gulf coast tick
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in Oklahoma

• Anaplasmosis
• Babesiosis
• Ehrlichiosis
• Heartland virus
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Tularemia

Ticks in South Carolina

Like its sister state, North Carolina, South Carolina has much to offer the outdoor enthusiast, including beaches, waterfalls, rivers, forests, and mountains. Leashed dogs are welcome at South Carolina’s 47 state parks and seven national park sites.

There are six types of ticks in South Carolina that pose risks to pets, and they are active all year long.

Types of Ticks in South Carolina Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick 
• Asian longhorned tick
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Brown dog tick
• Gulf coast tick
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in South Carolina

• Anaplasmosis
• Babesiosis
• Ehrlichiosis
• Heartland virus
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Tularemia

Ticks in Tennessee

Explore the wild in Tennessee with the state’s breathtaking scenery. Camping, hiking, paddling, hunting, fishing … you name it—Tennessee is brimming with outdoor adventure. Bring your dog or cat along to one of Tennessee’s 56 state parks or 13 national parks (pets must be on leash or crated). 

There are six different types of ticks in Tennessee that pose a threat to pets. Tick diseases in Tennessee include Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis ehrlichiosis, and others. Various types of ticks in Tennessee are active in different months, so tick control products are recommended year-round.

Types of Ticks in Tennessee Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick 
• Asian longhorned tick
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Brown dog tick
• Gulf coast tick
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in Tennessee 

• Anaplasmosis
• Babesiosis
• Ehrlichiosis
• Heartland virus
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Tularemia

Ticks in Texas

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and that includes the opportunities for outdoor fun. From rivers to the Gulf of Mexico, beaches to forests, and desert to mountains, Texas has it all. Almost all of Texas’s 89 state parks allow dogs, and leashed dogs are welcomed at one of Texas’s two national parks (Guadalupe Mountains). 

Various types of ticks in Texas are active in different months, so tick control products are recommended year-round. Common tick-borne diseases in Texas include Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and more. 

Types of Ticks in Texas Dangerous for Pets

• American dog tick 
• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) 
• Brown dog tick
• Gulf coast tick
• Lone star tick

Tick-Borne Diseases in Texas

• Anaplasmosis
• Ehrlichiosis
• Hepatozoonosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Tick-borne relapsing fever
• Tularemia

Living in the South: Protecting Your Pet From Parasites

To keep parasites off your pet, consider their lifestyle and what type of parasites they might encounter. Dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors hiking, hunting, or hanging out at dog parks are at risk of encountering fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Cats who live strictly indoors might not need a tick control product, but fleas and mosquitoes can come inside, where they will make a beeline for your pet. 

Always check your pets carefully for ticks after they have been outdoors, especially after walking or hiking in brushy or wooded areas. Removing ticks within a few hours of attachment can help reduce transmission of tick-borne disease.

According to Dr. Qurollo, hunting dogs are more likely to encounter different parasites depending on their exposure to certain prey animals, and dogs and cats with strong prey drives and free access to small wild animals can also become infected with certain gastrointestinal worms or protozoa if the prey is ingested. 

“Owners can help limit infection from many different parasites by providing year-round flea, tick, heartworm, and GI parasite prevention,” she says. “Owners can limit exposure to other parasites by monitoring their pets’ time outside and preventing predation of wildlife.”

Experts recommend giving parasite protection year-round, regardless of which state you live in. It’s difficult to know when and where parasite activity starts and stops in any year. In the South especially, fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes that transmit heartworm can be active most or all of the year. Fleas and mosquitoes can also weather cooler months by coming indoors.

Dr. Qurollo, who lives in Raleigh, North Carolina, found a mosquito in her house in the middle of January when temperatures outside were between 30 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. “In my opinion, it’s not worth the risk of my dog or cat contracting heartworm disease to save a little money by skipping a few months of preventative,” she says. “Heartworm treatment for dogs that become infected is expensive and requires strict cage rest to help prevent complications from killing the worms.”

Dr. Rizzo also points out that monthly heartworm preventatives eliminate heartworm infections that were established the previous month, so consistent use all year is key to killing these dangerous parasites. “If mosquitoes remained active in October, it’s important for the pet to receive a heartworm preventive in November,” she says. 

Always talk to your veterinarian about the best parasite control for your pet. Many different products are available that kill multiple parasites, so your pet can be protected with one monthly treatment.  

“Combination products that target multiple parasites, such as fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites, and heartworms, offer several advantages, including convenience and ease, which improves compliance,” Dr. Qurollo says. “It is often more cost-effective, too. Furthermore, animals on broad-spectrum parasite preventative can limit environmental spread.”

References

• “Map shows heartworm rates continue to increase in hot spots, new locations.” American Veterinary Medical Association. May 2023. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org/news/map-shows-heartworm-rates-continue-increase-hot-spots-new-locations
• “What you need to know about Asian longhorned ticks – A new tick in the United States.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/about/where-ticks-live.html
• “Tickborne Diseases.” Alabama Public Health. Retrieved from https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/tick/index.html
• “Tickborne Disease.” Arkansas Department of Health. Retrieved from https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/tickborne-disease
• “Ticks of Delaware.” Delaware.gov. Retrieved from https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/tickborne-disease
• “Ticks in Florida.” Florida Health. Retreived from https://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/tick-and-insect-borne-diseases/tick-information.html
• “Tick-borne Diseases.” Georgia Department of Public Health. Retrieved from https://dph.georgia.gov/epidemiology/zvbd/tbd
• “Ticks and Disease in Kentucky.” UK Department of Entomology. Retrieved from https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef618
• “Ticks to look out for – by Southern states.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Retrieved from https://tickapp.tamu.edu/
• “Ticks in Maryland.” University of Maryland Extension. Retrieved from https://extension.umd.edu/resource/ticks-maryland/
• “Facts about Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases at Grand Bay National Wildlife Refuge and National Estuarine Research Reserve.” Mississippi State University Extension. Retrieved from http://extension.msstate.edu/publications/facts-about-ticks-and-tick-borne-diseases-grand-bay-national-wildlife-refuge-and
• “Tick-Borne Illnesses.” North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Retrieved from https://epi.dph.ncdhhs.gov/cd/ticks/figures.html
• Mertz, Leslie. “In Mississippi, Blacklegged Ticks’ Seasonal Shift Deemed ‘Very Strange.'” Entomology Today. Aug. 2023. Retrieved from https://entomologytoday.org/2023/08/02/mississippi-blacklegged-ticks-seasonal-shift-strange/
• “Common Ticks of Oklahoma and Tick-Borne Diseases.” Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service. Retrieved from https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/print-publications/epp-entomology-and-plant-pathologhy/common-ticks-of-oklahoma-and-tick-borne-diseases-a.pdf
• Talley, Justin L., Noden, Bruce H., and Little, Susan. “Common Ticks of Oklahoma and Tick-Borne Diseases.” Oklahoma State University. Aug. 2023. Retrieved from https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/common-ticks-of-oklahoma-and-tick-borne-diseases.html
• “Ticks Can Spread Diseases.” South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. Retrieved from https://scdhec.gov/environment/insects-animals/ticks-can-spread-diseases
• “Ticks in Tennessee.” Tennessee Department of Health. Retrieved from https://www.tn.gov/health/cedep/vector-borne-diseases/tick-borne-diseases/ticks-in-tennessee.html

The post Pet Parasites in the South: A Regional Overview of Species and Risks appeared first on Great Pet Care.

This article explains reasons behind increased urination in cats and provides tips to care for your whiskered companion. But first, let’s cover some basics.

How Often Do Cats Pee? 

Understanding what’s normal when it comes to your cat’s bathroom habits is the first step to identifying any potential health concerns. On average, cats urinate between 2 to 4 times a day, says Dr. Paige Adams, veterinarian at Etowah Veterinary Hospital in Marietta, Georgia. 

However, this frequency can vary depending on a few factors, which Dr. Adams says are mostly related to water intake:  

• Diet: Cats that eat wet food may urinate more frequently. This is due to the higher water content in wet food. Cats that consume only (or mostly) dry food might pee less often.
• Hydration: Cats that drink more water will urinate more frequently.
• Activity: Cats that are more active tend to drink more water, which results in more urination.

Age and health conditions can also be factors. Kittens might urinate more than adult cats due to their smaller bladder capacity. Senior cats might experience an increase in urination due to health issues like kidney disease or diabetes.

Signs of Excessive Urination in Cats 

There are a few key signs that pet parents should look for says Dr. Beth Waisburd, a principal veterinarian at Small Door Veterinary in Brookline, Massachusetts. 

These include: 

Increased Frequency of Urination

The most obvious sign is when your cat starts visiting the litter box more often than usual. Keeping track of how often your cat uses the litter box can help you notice any significant changes.

Urinating Outside the Litter Box

If your cat is peeing outside the litter box, it could signal they are experiencing urinary tract discomfort. Some cats might pee right next to the litter box, while others might pee all around the house. Don’t scold or punish your cat for inappropriate urination, as it’s likely not something they can control. Plus, added stress might make the condition worse. Calmly clean it up and schedule an appointment with your vet. 

Straining to Urinate

A cat who is straining to urinate may sit in their litter box trying to pee, with nothing coming out. This is an emergency that should be addressed by a veterinarian immediately.

Blood in Urine

Normal cat urine should be a light yellow color. The presence of blood in your cat’s urine (which can appear either red or pink) is a serious symptom. Other color changes — such as dark yellow, orange, or brown — should also be brought to a veterinarian’s attention.

Drinking More Water

If your cat is drinking a lot of water, their urine output will also increase.

The best way to catch differences in your cat’s urination habits is to observe and track their behavior. This provides a baseline for what’s normal. You’ll then be able to notice if and when changes occur.

Using Great Pet Care’s health journal allows you to note how often your cat is peeing. You can also track if there are other symptoms to discuss with your veterinarian.  

7 Possible Reasons Your Cat Is Peeing A Lot

If you’ve noticed a marked increase in your cat’s urination or any of the other symptoms above, underlying health conditions could be to blame. Dr. Waisburd and Dr. Adams share common reasons that may be behind your cat’s frequent trips to the litter box.

Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is prevalent in cats, especially as they age. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste from the blood. They also maintain the body’s balance of fluids and electrolytes. 

When the kidneys are compromised, they may not concentrate urine effectively. This leadins to increased urination, says Dr. Waisburd. Other symptoms of kidney disease may include weight loss, vomiting, and increased thirst.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that affects the ability of a cat’s body to properly use sugar (glucose) for energy. In a healthy cat, food is broken down during digestion to produce glucose, which then enters the bloodstream. The pancreas produces insulin, a hormone that helps glucose move from the blood into the cells of the body where it can be used for energy. 

In a cat with diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t effectively use the insulin it does produce. This causes high levels of glucose in the blood. Two of the key symptoms of this condition are increased thirst and increased urination. 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormone. “An overactive thyroid can result in increased water intake and urination,” says Dr. Waisburd.

Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism might include weight loss, increased appetite and hyperactivity.   

Urinary Tract Infections

“Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common cause of increased drinking and urination,” says Dr. Adams. Some symptoms of cat UTIs include increased frequency of small amounts of urine, straining to urinate, blood in the urine and, sometimes, urinating outside of the litter box, she adds. 

Urinary Crystals and Bladder Stones

Urinary crystals are tiny, microscopic crystals that can form in a cat’s urine. When minerals in the urine crystallize, bladder stones can develop in a cat’s bladder. These hard, stone-like structures can vary in size, from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a pebble or even bigger. 

“The most common way we find these is by looking for the cause of inappropriate or overall changes in urinary habits,” says Dr. Adams. “This is usually an incidental finding related to looking for a urinary tract infection. And usually, if a cat has crystals and/or stones then we tend to also find a UTI.” 

Medication Side Effects 

Some medications can cause increased urination as a side effect. “The most common medication that causes increased drinking and urination is steroids,” says Dr. Adams. Some conditions for which a cat may be placed on steroids include itching, allergies, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and gastrointestinal lymphoma, adds Dr. Adams.

Aging 

Aging alone is not an underlying cause of increased urination, explains Dr. Adams. “That being said, if an older cat changes behavior and is displaying abnormal urination, I would encourage the [pet parent] to bring the cat to the vet so they can look for the underlying cause (likely one of the other reasons above),” she says.

What to Do If Your Cat Is Peeing More Than Normal 

If your cat’s urination habits have changed, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian. “The urgency of the appointment depends on the cat’s overall behavior and clinical signs,” says Dr. Adams.

For instance, if your cat is frequently visiting the litter box, straining during urination with minimal or no urine output, or persistently licking his genital area, take him to your veterinarian or a pet emergency clinic immediately. These symptoms, particularly straining to pee, might indicate a urinary blockage — a condition in which the urethra (the tube that transports urine from the bladder to the exterior) is obstructed. A urinary blockage is a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary intervention. Failure to promptly diagnose and treat this condition can be fatal. 

“If the cat is able to urinate and is just doing so more often, then an appointment with the veterinarian should still be scheduled, but waiting for the first available appointment may be okay,” says Dr. Adams.

The veterinarian will perform exams and tests to diagnose the cause of excessive urination. According to Dr. Waisburd, this might include:

• A physical examination: During a physical exam, the veterinarian will assess your cat’s overall health. As a pet parent, your observations are invaluable. Sharing detailed information about signs and symptoms you’ve noticed can assist in forming a more accurate diagnosis.
• Urinalysis: A urinalysis is a common test. It analyzes the cat’s urine for the presence of blood, crystals, bacteria or other abnormalities.
• Blood tests: Blood tests can help identify conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease.
• Imaging: Ultrasound or X-rays visualize the bladder and kidneys. This helps to detect the presence of bladder stones, tumors, or other abnormalities.

Treating Excessive Urination in Cats

The treatment for excessive urination in cats will depend on the underlying cause. Here are some of the possible treatments: 

Kidney Disease: For cats diagnosed with kidney disease, treatment may include medication, dietary changes, and possibly intravenous or subcutaneous fluids to help manage dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Diabetes: If diabetes is the cause of excessive urination, your vet may prescribe insulin injections to help regulate your cat’s blood sugar levels. Dietary modifications and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels may also be necessary.

Hyperthyroidism: Treatment for hyperthyroidism involves the use of medications – like methimazole or Felimazole – that reduce the production of thyroid hormone. Other treatments may include radioactive iodine therapy to destroy the overactive thyroid tissue or surgery to remove the affected gland.

Urinary Tract Infections: UTIs are generally treated with antibiotics to clear the infection. Your vet may also recommend dietary changes or supplements to prevent future infections.

Urinary Crystals or Bladder Stones: Treatment for urinary crystals or bladder stones may include dietary changes, increased water intake, medication or, in some cases, surgery to remove the stones.

Medication Side Effects: If excessive urination is a side effect of a medication your cat is taking, your vet may adjust the dosage or prescribe a different medication.

Aging: If your senior cat is experiencing increased urination, work with your vet to determine the underlying cause and develop a tailored treatment plan.  

While it can be concerning to notice your cat peeing a lot, it’s important to remember that many underlying causes of excessive peeing in cats are manageable with the right care and treatment. 

By being observant of changes in your cat’s behavior, consulting with your veterinarian promptly, and following through with the recommended treatment plan, you can help ensure your feline friend maintains a healthy and comfortable life.

The post 7 Reasons Your Cat is Peeing A Lot appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Bee stings in cats are common – and annoying – but they’re rarely severe or life-threatening. The quicker you recognize when your cat has a bee sting, the quicker you can treat the sting and help your cat feel more comfortable again.

Cat Bee Sting: Overview

Bee stings on cats appear as red swellings on the skin, typically on the face near the nose and the front paws. Single bee stings are most common, but multiple bee stings can occur. Multiple bee stings require immediate veterinary care because of how much venom can enter your cat’s body.

Cats are most likely to get stung in early spring and late autumn when bees aren’t flying around very quickly and can be easily swatted at or caught by our pouncing purrers.

Among bee types, female honey bees are the most likely to sting your cat. There isn’t a specific geographic region where cat bee stings are more common, so it’s important to stay on alert for bee stings wherever you live.

Cat Stung by a Bee: Symptoms to Watch Out For

Bee sting symptoms in cats are usually mild and localized to the sting site. The sting itself may be hard to find if your cat has long hair, but you can use the symptoms listed below to help you recognize when your cat has been stung by a bee.

If your cat got stung by a bee, they may also act differently, so watch for behavioral changes as well. 

Cats stung by bees commonly experience these symptoms:

• Redness 
• Mild, puffy swelling
• Sudden crying out
• Limping (if the sting is on the paw)
• Becoming quiet and withdrawn
• Excessive licking or pawing at the sting 

In rare cases, cats can suffer a severe allergic reaction (anaphylactic shock) after being stung by a bee. Anaphylactic shock sets in within 15 minutes after a bee sting. It is life-threatening and requires immediate, emergency veterinary treatment. 

The signs of anaphylactic shock in cats are as follows:

• Hives
• Collapse
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Pale gums
• Disorientation
• Stumbling
• Cold limbs
• Rapid heartbeat
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Drooling
• Weakness
• Lethargy
• Weak pulse
• Behavioral changes (depression, over-excitement)

Bee stings near the throat can cause difficulty breathing and swallowing, requiring immediate veterinary care. 

Cats Stung by Bees: Causes

Cats are curious creatures with strong hunting instincts, so they love to hunt, chase, and swat at bees. Unfortunately, bees see these behaviors as threatening. Bees will go into self-defense mode and sting a cat to protect themselves.

Young cats are especially prone to bee stings because they are extremely curious but aren’t experienced or old enough to know that bees can be dangerous.

Diagnosing a Bee Sting on a Cat

Actually seeing a bee stinging your cat is the easiest way to diagnose a sting, but that’s not always possible. Even without seeing the sting in real-time, pet parents can usually diagnose a bee sting on their cat at home by observing the symptoms described above. 

A veterinary visit is usually not necessary to diagnose a bee sting. However, it is always good to contact your veterinarian if you are unsure whether a bee or some other type of insect, such as a wasp, stung your cat.

Cat Bee Sting Treatment

Mild cat bee stings can be treated at home. Seek immediate, emergency veterinary care if your cat has signs of anaphylactic shock.

When a bee stings your cat, its stinger embeds in the skin, pumping venom for several minutes. Act quickly to remove the stinger and treat your cat. Follow these treatment steps:

1. Stay calm
2. Locate the bee’s stinger. Remember that the face and front paws are the most common areas for bee stings on cats
3. Remove the stinger by scraping the skin with the edge of a credit card. Do not squeeze the stinger with tweezers or your fingers. Doing so will release more of the bee’s venom in your cat’s body 
4. Rinse the sting area with cool water
5. Apply a cool, damp washcloth or cold compress to the sting site for 5 to 10 minutes to help reduce swelling
6. Keep your cat as calm as possible, doing your best to stop them from touching the sting
7. Monitor your cat for signs of anaphylactic shock 
8. Contact your veterinarian

If your cat’s bee sting was mild, your veterinarian might advise monitoring symptoms at home. They may also recommend giving your cat an antihistamine to reduce swelling and other symptoms.

Veterinary care for anaphylactic shock requires hospitalization and intense treatment with intravenous fluids, steroids, and Benadryl. Your cat will remain hospitalized for at least one to two days until they are stable enough to return home.

Medications Used to Treat Cats With a Bee Sting

Benadryl is the most used antihistamine drug to relieve the discomfort of bee stings. Its active ingredient, diphenhydramine, blocks the release of histamine, which the body’s immune system releases in response to the stinger’s venom. Benadryl is given orally, in pill or liquid form, for at-home care.

Do not, under any circumstances, give your cat Benadryl without speaking to your veterinarian first. Over-the-counter Benadryl may contain other ingredients, such as pain medication, that are fatally toxic to cats. Make sure that the Benadryl you give your cat contains only diphenhydramine.

Your veterinarian will use your cat’s weight to calculate the correct Benadryl dosage for your cat. They will then instruct you on how to administer it.

If you are using the pill form, you can try hiding the pill of Benadryl in a pill pocket. If your cat hates taking pills, use a syringe to squirt the liquid dose of Benadryl into the back of your cat’s mouth so they can’t spit it back out.

Cat Bee Sting Recovery Time

For most cat bee stings, the swelling lasts only a few hours. With prompt first aid at home, your cat will recover quickly. Cats hospitalized with anaphylactic shock will have a longer recovery because of the seriousness of their allergic reaction. 

If your cat was hospitalized, your veterinarian will give you at-home care instructions for monitoring your cat and administering medication. Your veterinarian may prescribe an EpiPen and instruct you on how to use it if your cat gets stung by a bee again.

General Cost of Treatment for Cat Bee Stings

Mild bee stings that need only at-home care have minimal costs – just the cost of Benadryl if you do not already have it at home.

Hospitalization for bee stings will cost hundreds of dollars, including a physical exam, treatment, and an overnight stay in the hospital.

How to Prevent Cat Bee Stings

Because cats are so curious, preventing bee stings may be challenging. However, there are a few strategies to reduce your cat’s chances of getting stung by a bee:

• Hire a pest control service to remove bee hives and nests from your yard
• Plant flowers, such as zinnias, that are less likely to attract bees
• Isolate your cat in another room if a bee gets inside your home. Do your best to remove the bee

Related Conditions

• Wasp stings
• Hornet stings

The post Cat Stung By a Bee: What to Do appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Knowing what choking looks like and what to do if your dog is choking will allow you to act quickly and give your dog life-saving help.

Choking in dogs is an emergency. After quickly trying to resolve choking at home, you should immediately seek veterinary care.

Causes of Choking in Dogs

Because dogs are willing to put just about anything in their mouths, there are a number of things that can cause choking.

Small toys, rawhides, and bones can easily get lodged in the throat and are common causes of choking in dogs.

Tennis balls can get stuck at the top of the throat, also causing choking.

If a dog eats too quickly, food can go down the trachea instead of the esophagus, blocking the airway and causing choking.

It’s not always something that a dog swallows that can cause choking. A collar that’s too tight can constrict the neck during a walk if a dog pulls on the leash. Collapsing trachea is a common medical condition in small dogs and can cause choking.

This article will focus on what to do if food or a foreign object causes choking.

Signs a Dog is Choking

For people, the universal sign of choking is grabbing the neck. Our dogs, of course, cannot do that. But they do show other signs of choking that are important to recognize.

Coughing and hacking are usually the first signs of choking in dogs and are an attempt to cough up the obstruction in the throat. Here are other signs to look for:

• Gagging, retching
• Pawing at the face
• Excessive drooling
• No noise coming from your dog
• Rubbing the face on the ground
• Wheezing and difficulty breathing
• Appearing frightened, frantic, and distressed

If your dog cannot breathe because of choking, their skin and mucus membranes (gums and tongue, pink area around the eyes, genitals) will start to turn blue because their body is not getting enough oxygen. A choking dog who cannot breathe will eventually collapse and lose consciousness.

How to Help a Choking Dog

If your dog is choking, act quickly and without panicking (we know – easier said than done).

Choking is a medical emergency, and you should try to relieve it immediately. If you are not successful, get your dog to a veterinarian or veterinary emergency room.

It may surprise you, but the Heimlich maneuver can be used in dogs, large and small. Its purpose is to create enough upward force in the chest to dislodge an object from the throat.

The Heimlich maneuver for dogs is not the first step, though. First, you should try to remove the object with your hands. Let’s go over both methods, as well as what to do if neither works.

Remove the object

1. Restrain your dog without using a muzzle. If you have someone with you, ask them to gently restrain your dog. 
2. Open your dog’s mouth carefully to avoid getting bitten.
3. Look in their mouth, including the roof of the mouth, to locate the object causing the choking. Use a small flashlight if you have one nearby.
4. If you can see the object, sweep in the mouth with your fingers to try to remove it.
5. For a small object, like a chunk of food or rawhide, try to grasp it and remove it without pushing it further down the throat.
6. For a large object you can see but not remove with your hands, like a tennis ball, put your thumbs on the sides of your dog’s windpipe, under the ball, and press upward to force the object up and out.
7. Don’t reach down your dog’s throat if you cannot see anything. You may accidentally push the object farther down.

Perform the Heimlich maneuver

You’ll want to perform the Heimlich maneuver in these choking situations:

• You cannot dislodge the object with your hands
• Your dog is gasping for air, and you cannot get to the vet in time

Feel free to call your veterinarian’s office and ask them to guide you through the steps listed below.

Performing the Heimlich on a small dog

1. Position your dog’s back against your chest.
2. Wrap your arms around their chest.
3. Place the fist of one hand just under their ribcage.
4. Gently but firmly thrust upward and inward.
5. Place the dog on their side and look in their mouth to see if you can remove the object.
6. If your dog continues choking, seek emergency care.

Performing the Heimlich on a large dog 

1. If your dog is standing, bend over or kneel and wrap your arms around the belly, just behind their rib cage. Lift upward to increase pressure in their chest.
2. Firmly thrust upward and inward from just behind the rib cage.
3. If your dog is unconscious, lie them on their side on the ground, supporting their back and extending their neck. Place a fist just under their ribcage and thrust upward and inward toward your dog’s head.

After performing the Heimlich, place your dog on their side. Look in their mouth and remove the dislodged object if you can, following the steps listed above.

Perform CPR

If your dog is not breathing after performing the Heimlich, try to perform CPR. Ideally, at least one person would perform CPR on your pet while another drives to an emergency veterinary clinic.

When to See a Veterinarian

You must follow up with your veterinarian if your dog choked, even if you relieved the choking at home and your dog is breathing normally again. Your veterinarian will check to ensure that the entire object was removed and assess your dog for potential injuries caused by choking and performing the Heimlich.

For example, the dislodged object may have damaged your dog’s throat and mouth. Also, performing the Heimlich may have injured your dog’s ribs.

If your dog stopped breathing while choking, they may need to be hospitalized and receive supplemental oxygen.

Your dog may be in pain after choking. If this is the case, your veterinarian will prescribe a medication to reduce the pain.

How to Prevent Choking in Dogs

Here are some strategies to prevent your dog from choking:

• Block access or hide all small toys and objects from your dog
• Give your dog only sturdy toys that can withstand vigorous chewing
• Do not give your dog toys with small parts that may easily be chewed off and inhaled
• Do not give your dog rawhides or bones
• Secure your garbage to prevent your dog from opening the lid
• Use a slow feeder bowl to slow down your dog’s eating

The post Dog Choking: What to Do and How to Prevent It appeared first on Great Pet Care.

However, factors like old age and exposure to toxins can take a toll on the liver.

Liver supplements for dogs help support the liver when it is not working as well as it used to. The market for these supplements continues to grow, giving dog parents a wide (and sometimes bewildering) variety of liver supplements from which to choose. 

We’re here to help you understand how liver supplements work, why your dog might need one, and what to consider when selecting a liver support supplement for your dog.

How Liver Support Supplements Help Dogs

Dog supplements for liver disease contain active ingredients, such as S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and milk thistle, that support the liver in the following functions:

• Detoxification
• Protein synthesis
• Digestion
• Antioxidant activity 

A normal-functioning liver produces antioxidants that scavenge free radicals, which are substances that damage cells and lead to disease. Liver supplements with antioxidant activity protect liver cells against this damage and promote cellular repair.

Liver supplements also support good overall nutrition by providing additional nutrients like vitamins and probiotics.

Like human supplements, dog supplements for the liver are not curative and do not reverse liver disease. Instead, they support the liver and can help manage the symptoms of liver disease.

Why Your Vet Might Recommend a Dog Liver Supplement

Generally, a liver supplement is unnecessary for a healthy dog with no liver problems. However, veterinarians might recommend liver supplements for:

• Dogs with medical conditions like liver cancer, liver infection, and liver failure
• Dogs with digestion issues (the liver plays a key role in digestion)
• Dogs who eat a homemade diet, because they may lack or be deficient in nutrients necessary for proper liver functioning
• Senior dogs and dogs on medication

A liver supplement is typically given for long-term liver support, but your veterinarian can determine how long your dog would need to take the supplement.

Only your veterinarian can determine if a liver supplement is appropriate for your dog. 

5 Veterinarian-Prescribed Liver Supplements for Dogs

Searching for liver supplements for dogs online can be overwhelming. We’ve selected a few dog liver supplements to consider and discuss with your veterinarian.

Each of these supplements is taken by mouth and is available in multiple doses according to a dog’s weight.

Denamarin

Denmarin contains two active ingredients: SAMe and silybin. SAMe is produced naturally in the liver and gets converted into glutathione, a chemical that plays important roles in detoxification and antioxidant activity. A liver supplement helps increase SAMe levels that have been reduced because of liver disease. 

SAMe can also support brain health by improving cognition, which is especially important in senior dogs who may be experiencing cognitive decline.

Silybin is an extract of milk thistle, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. 

Highlights

• Contains two active ingredients to support liver health
• Reduces inflammation
• Promotes detoxification
• Antioxidant activity
• Supports brain health
• Available as a tablet or a chewable tablet
• Only available from your veterinarian

Note: There is also a formula called Denamarin Advanced with improved absorption, which means you don’t have to give your pet as many tablets per day compared to the original.

Denosyl

Denosyl contains SAMe as its active ingredient. Like Denamarin, Denosyl supports liver health in several ways, including detoxifying, protecting liver cells, and promoting cellular repair. Denosyl can also support healthy brain functioning.

Highlights

• SAMe is the active ingredient
• Helps with detoxification 
• Antioxidant activity 
• Supports cognitive function
• Only available through your veterinarian

Vetri SAMe Tablets

Vetri SAMe tablets combine SAMe and glutathione to promote detoxification and carry out antioxidant activity. They have a special coating (enteric coating) to protect them from stomach acid, ensuring that they make it to the small intestine and are fully absorbed.

Highlights

• Contains SAMe and glutathione as its active ingredients
• Promotes detoxification 
• Antioxidant effects
• Enteric coating to maximize absorption in the small intestine
• Has earned the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal of approval
• Ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs
• Should be given on an empty stomach, about one hour before mealtime 

Vetri-Liver Support Soft Chew for Dogs

Vetri-Liver Support soft chews for dogs have an appealing chicken flavor and contain 15 ingredients, including glutathione and vitamin E, that work in two phases to support liver health. Phase 1 converts toxins into less dangerous substances, and phase 2 makes these substances water soluble so the body can easily eliminate them. These ingredients also support fat metabolism and antioxidant activity.

Highlights

• Contains 15 active ingredients that support liver health
• Helps with detoxification and fat metabolism
• Antioxidant effects 
• Has earned the NASC seal of approval

Rx Vitamins Hepato Support Capsules

Rx Vitamins Hepato Support capsules contain silymarin, which is extracted from the seeds of the milk thistle plant, plus B vitamins and alpha lipoic acid to help support normal liver function. Silymarin boosts glutathione levels and helps protect the liver from toxins. One capsule contains 100 milligrams of milk thistle extract. If you have trouble giving your dog pills, it is also available in liquid format.

Highlights

• Contains several active ingredients to support liver function
• Promotes detoxification
• Antioxidant activity
• Has earned the NASC seal of approval

Dog Liver Support Supplements: Tips and Safety

Here are some things to consider before giving your dog a liver supplement:

Talk with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will be your best source of information about liver supplements for dogs. They will be able to determine if your dog needs a liver supplement and advise you on which liver supplement would be best for your dog. 

Consider your dog’s current medications. Liver supplements may interact with other medications and potentially decrease a medication’s effect. Discuss your dog’s medication history with your veterinarian.

Consider cost. Liver supplements can be expensive, especially when given long-term. Your veterinarian can help you identify budget-friendly liver supplements and advise you on how long your dog may need the supplement.

Follow label instructions. The label contains key information on dosing and storage. Please read this information closely to ensure you give your dog the correct dose according to their weight and safely store the product away from pets and children. 

Identify the lot number. Make sure the supplement has a lot number on its label. The lot number indicates that the product has undergone strict quality control to ensure its safety. 

Research the manufacturer. Don’t believe the marketing hype. Research the manufacturer by reading through their website or contacting them by phone to determine whether they put their products through independent safety and efficacy testing.

Do not give human supplements to your dog. Human supplements may contain ingredients that are harmful to your dog. Also, the dose for humans could lead to an overdose in dogs.

The post 5 Beneficial Liver Supplements for Dogs appeared first on Great Pet Care.

All pets—even indoor pets—are at risk of fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. These little bloodsuckers can hitch a ride inside on you or a pet and make themselves at home. That’s why veterinarians often recommend year-round parasite protection for pets, such as Simparica Trio for dogs or Revolution Plus for cats.

Keep reading to learn more about the dangers fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes pose and how to protect your pet (and yourself).

10 Dangers of Fleas, Ticks and Mosquitoes

Despite their tiny size, fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes can pose significant dangers to our pets.

Flea allergy dermatitis

Dogs and cats aren’t just irritated by flea bites. They can also be allergic to them. A flea’s saliva has substances like enzymes and histamines that a pet’s immune system recognizes as foreign, triggering an immune reaction. This reaction leads to symptoms like intense scratching and biting of the skin, crusting, hair loss, hot spots, and secondary infections.

Flea allergy in dogs and cats is typically diagnosed if your pet has skin allergy signs and their veterinarian sees flea dirt or adult fleas on your pet’s coat. It is treated with products that will remove fleas from the skin and reduce irritation and itching.

Year-round flea control with oral or topical products is critical to preventing flea allergy dermatitis.

Flea-borne diseases

Fleas are notorious for transmitting diseases that can make pets ill. One such disease is murine typhus, caused by the bacteria Rickettsia typhi. Another disease is bartonellosis (‘cat scratch disease’), caused by the bacteria Bartonella henselae. Fleas also spread the plague.

Tapeworm infection

Pets can get tapeworms by swallowing adult fleas that carry tapeworm larvae (immature tapeworms). These larvae then develop into adults in a pet’s digestive system. The segments of an adult tapeworm resemble grains of white rice and exit the body in a pet’s poop. Tapeworms are easily treated with a drug called praziquantel, which kills the tapeworms in the intestine.

Flea infestations

As if flea bites aren’t bad enough, flea infestations can be even worse. Fleas can’t fly, but they can jump up to 2 feet, a very impressive feat given their tiny size. This jumping ability means fleas can jump from pet to pet and even from pet to human. So, if one of your pets has fleas, it may not be long before all of your pets and you begin feeling itchy from flea bites.

Adult female fleas can live on a pet’s skin for up to two months and lay 40 to 50 eggs daily; that’s thousands of flea eggs! When these eggs fall off your pet, they find hard-to-reach places like cracks and crevices to lay dormant, wrap themselves in a cocoon, and develop into adults. 

Once fleas are fully formed into adults, they’re ready to jump onto the nearest host, and the cycle begins again. Eliminating a flea infestation can take months because you must break the flea’s life cycle and get rid of all flea life stages in your home.

Tick-borne diseases

Ticks can carry numerous infectious diseases in their little bodies that affect pets, such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis. Generally, tick-borne diseases are more commonly seen in dogs than cats.

Lyme disease in dogs is caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, which is carried by either the black-legged tick or deer tick. It causes symptoms like joint pain, fever, and lameness. Lyme disease in cats is rare. 

Rocky Mountain spotted fever, caused by the bacteria Rickettsia rickettssii, is carried by several ticks, including the Lone Star tick. Symptoms include fever and generalized pain. Anaplasmosis is caused by two Anaplasma bacteria carried by multiple ticks, including the brown dog tick. Anaplasmosis symptoms include fever and joint pain.

Tick-borne diseases are treated with antibiotics. Other medications, such as pain medications, may be needed. Pets with severe symptoms may require hospitalization.

Tick paralysis

Tick paralysis in dogs and cats is caused by toxins in a tick’s saliva that attack the nervous system. An affected pet’s muscles gradually become paralyzed, leaving them unable to walk, eat, and breathe. Ticks most associated with tick paralysis are the American dog tick, Rocky Mountain wood tick, deer or blacklegged tick, and Western blacklegged tick.

Removing the tick removes the source of the paralysis, and pets often recover quickly once they are treated. However, some pets may have to be hospitalized for severe symptoms.

Heartworm disease

Heartworm disease tops the list of mosquito-borne diseases in pets. Mosquitoes carry heartworm larvae that enter a pet’s bloodstream during a mosquito bite. These larvae migrate through the body, taking about 10 weeks to develop into adults. Adult heartworms migrate to the heart and lungs, where they can cause serious trouble.

Heartworm in dogs causes vague symptoms like fatigue and cough. More severe symptoms, such as weight loss and belly distension, occur with a high worm burden and indicate congestive heart failure. 

Heartworm in cats is not as common but is much more severe than heartworm in dogs. It causes symptoms like lethargy and coughing. Unfortunately, cats with heartworm can develop a fatal condition called heartworm-associated respiratory disease (HARD), caused by a severe inflammatory reaction when heartworms die.

Caval syndrome

Caval syndrome occurs in dogs with chronic heartworm disease. It is caused when the burden of heartworms in the pulmonary artery is so high that the worms migrate to the caudal vena cava (a major blood vessel for the body) and the right side of the heart. Blood flow through the heart becomes blocked, and affected dogs have symptoms like difficulty breathing, heart failure, and weakness. Caval syndrome can be fatal within hours without surgery to remove the heartworms.

Anemia

Anemia is blood loss. Fleas and ticks can cause anemia because they feed on the blood of their hosts. Heavy flea and tick burdens can lead to significant blood loss, which can be life-threatening in puppies and kittens. Signs of anemia in dogs and cats include weakness and pale gums.

Treatment for anemia depends on the severity. Anemia caused by fleas is treated by removing the fleas and preventing another flea infestation. Severe anemia may require hospitalization and a blood transfusion.

Hair loss

Bites from fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes can cause intense itchiness. Constant biting, scratching, and licking at the bite area can lead to hair breakage and eventual hair loss.

How to Protect Your Pet from Fleas, Ticks and Mosquitoes

Protecting your pet from fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes is essential and requires a multi-pronged approach that involves treating your pet and the inside and outside of your home.

The strategies listed below offer easy, convenient, and affordable ways to protect dogs, cats, and your household from pesky (and dangerous) parasites. Be sure to speak with your veterinarian to choose the most appropriate flea, tick, and mosquito protections for your pet and location.

Treating your pet

Year-round flea and tick control: This is the best strategy for preventing flea and tick infestations. All dogs and cats in your home must be on a flea and tick control product. These range from over-the-counter flea and tick sprays or collars to prescription chewable preventatives, such as Credelio Quattro or Simparica chewables for dogs, and topical treatments, like Revolution for dogs and cats.

Year-round heartworm prevention: It’s important to give your pet a monthly heartworm preventative, even during winter. Year-round protection is essential to prevent a heartworm infection. Ask your vet about your heartworm preventative options and whether you should consider a broad-spectrum combination preventative, such as Credelio Quattro or Simparica Trio for dogs or Revolution Plus for cats, which protects against fleas, ticks, and heartworms in one convenient monthly dose.

Regular tick checks: Check your pet for ticks anytime you go outside, especially if you stroll through the woods, where ticks love hiding in tall grasses and on trees.

Flea combs: Flea combs are an inexpensive way to remove fleas and flea eggs from your pet. Use a flea comb along with a flea and tick control product.

Mosquito repellent: Pet-safe mosquito repellents are available to protect your pet from mosquitoes when outside. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations for pet-safe repellents.

Stay indoors during peak hours: Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. Keeping your pet indoors as much as possible, especially at dawn and dusk, will help protect your pet from mosquitoes.

Treating the environment

Wash your pet’s bedding: Your pet’s bedding is a favorite hiding spot for immature fleas. Wash the bedding regularly in hot water to kill the fleas.

Vacuum regularly: Regular vacuuming, especially in hard-to-reach cracks and crevices, will remove fleas from their hiding spots. Empty the vacuum bag outside to prevent another flea infestation.

Remove outdoor flea and tick hideouts: Fleas and ticks love to hide in tall grasses, weeds, piles of leaves, and other organic debris. Removing their hiding places, such as by weeding and regularly mowing your lawn, will help keep them away from your home.

Remove standing water: Mosquitoes like to breed where there’s standing water. Remove sources of standing water outside your home, like pool covers and water buckets.

Repair window screens: Window screens with holes allow easy entry inside for mosquitoes. Repair any screens that are broken.

Hire a professional exterminator: If treating your home is too much work for you, consider hiring a professional exterminator. Make sure that the products they use are safe for pets.

The post 10 Dangers of Fleas, Ticks and Mosquitoes appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Dogs with sepsis quickly become very ill, needing immediate and intense veterinary care.

If your dog is showing any signs of sepsis, act quickly to get them the care they urgently need and give them the best possible chance of survival and recovery.

What Is Sepsis?

Sepsis, also known as septicemia or blood poisoning, is a blood infection. It is part of a spectrum of medical conditions that develop when a microorganism – usually bacteria – enters the bloodstream. 

The spectrum begins with bacteremia, the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream. Under normal circumstances, the bacteria are removed from the blood when the blood passes through the liver, and no illness occurs.

Bacteremia progresses to sepsis if the liver cannot remove the bacteria from the blood. These bacteria remain in the blood and release toxins, triggering a severe inflammatory response (sepsis).

Without immediate and aggressive treatment, sepsis can progress to septic shock. Septic shock in dogs leads to multi-organ failure, and survival is unlikely.

Causes of Sepsis in Dogs

Bacteria most commonly cause sepsis, but any microorganism, such as viruses and parasites, can enter the bloodstream and cause sepsis. 

Bacteria or other microorganisms can enter the blood from a skin wound or another site in the body. Here are the most common sites of initial infection for sepsis in dogs, along with some examples of diseases in these locations that can lead to sepsis:

• Skin wounds
• Gastrointestinal tract: parvovirus, colitis (inflammation of the colon)
• Respiratory tract: pneumonia
• Oral cavity: periodontal disease
• Urinary tract: bladder infection, pyelonephritis (infection of the kidneys)
• Reproductive tract: pyometra (infection of the uterus)

Dogs with weak immune systems – such as very young or old dogs – have an increased risk of sepsis because their immune systems are not strong enough to fight off infections. Dogs receiving cancer treatment or taking steroids may also have weak immune systems.

Symptoms of Sepsis in Dogs

Sepsis makes dogs seriously ill. Symptoms of sepsis can vary according to the site of initial infection. Here are some symptoms to look for:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Shaking
• Chills
• Weakness
• Confusion
• Anorexia
• Collapse
• Lethargy
• Rapid, difficult breathing

Diagnosing Dog Sepsis

Diagnosing sepsis in dogs should be done soon after the onset of symptoms so treatment can begin as quickly as possible. 

Diagnosis begins with a thorough history and physical examination. Your veterinarian will ask you about your dog’s medication history and any recent experiences with trauma or surgery, among other questions.

Your veterinarian will assess your dog from head to toe during the physical exam. Low blood pressure, a sudden high fever, and a rapid heartbeat are common physical exam findings in dogs with sepsis. 

Diagnostic testing for sepsis can be extensive, given that sepsis is so widespread. Your veterinarian will perform basic laboratory work, including bloodwork and a urinalysis. Blood work reveals an increased white blood cell count, indicating infection. A high white blood cell count in the urine indicates an infection in the urinary tract.

Imaging tests, such as X-rays and ultrasound, can provide additional clues regarding where the initial infection started.

An electrocardiogram may be performed to evaluate your dog’s heart for abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias).

Blood cultures look for bacteria in the blood. However, bacteria may not grow in culture, and results take at least several days. Because sepsis is a medical emergency, your veterinarian will begin treating your dog before blood culture results are available.

How to Treat Sepsis in Dogs

Treatment for sepsis must be immediate and aggressive to eliminate the initial infection and prevent septic shock. Dogs with sepsis are hospitalized for at least several days.

Antibiotic treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics begins immediately. Broad-spectrum antibiotics target a wide range of bacteria. When the blood culture results are available, your veterinarian may need to adjust the antibiotic regimen to target the specific bacteria identified in the blood culture.

Other treatments for sepsis in dogs are listed below:

• Intravenous fluids
• Nutritional support
• Oxygen supplementation
• Medications to improve blood pressure
• Medications to relieve nausea and vomiting
• Surgery

Surgery may be needed to eliminate the source of infection. For example, if your dog’s intestines have ruptured, surgery would be necessary to remove the section of damaged intestines.

Dogs with sepsis do not have a good prognosis. Despite treatment, the survival rate for sepsis in dogs is about 50%. [1] That percentage is even lower for dogs in septic shock.

Dogs that survive sepsis and are discharged from the hospital may have permanent organ damage and require lifelong therapy for continued survival.

How to Prevent Sepsis in Dogs

Routine veterinary care, early treatment of infection, and proper wound care help prevent sepsis in dogs. Routine veterinary care will help your veterinarian detect an infection early and begin the appropriate treatment to prevent progression to sepsis.

Proper wound care will help prevent bacteria from overwhelming your dog’s body. Basic first aid can treat minor and superficial wounds at home, but deep and severe wounds require veterinary treatment.

Reference:

1. de Laforcade AM, Freeman LM, Shaw SP, Brooks MB, Rozanski EA, Rush JE. “Hemostatic Changes in Dogs with Naturally Occurring Sepsis.” J Vet Intern Med. 2003 Sep-Oct;17(5):674-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2003.tb02499.x. PMID: 14529134. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14529134/ 

The post Sepsis in Dogs appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Any cat can get intestinal parasites, but young kittens and older cats with weakened immune systems are most susceptible. Nearly all kittens are born with intestinal parasites, and the parasites’ larvae (immature life stage) can lie dormant within a cat’s body, causing reinfection later in life.

Unfortunately, these troublesome parasites aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. Let’s review the most common intestinal parasites in cats, what symptoms they cause, and how a monthly parasite preventative like NexGard COMBO or Revolution Plus can help treat and control them.

Types of Intestinal Parasites in Cats

Intestinal parasites in cats are either worms (such as roundworms) or protozoans (Giardia), which are single-celled organisms.

The parasites migrate to a cat’s digestive system, setting up shop in the small intestine. 

Here are the common types of intestinal parasites in cats:

Roundworms

Roundworms, also known as ascarids, are about 2–3 inches long and are the most common cat intestinal parasite. Cats can get them by eating soil or feces infected with roundworm eggs. Transmission can also occur from mom to her unborn kittens, as well as through nursing. Roundworms can become abundant enough in the gut to cause intestinal blockage. 

Hookworms

Hookworm larvae burrow through a cat’s skin. They can also be transmitted in utero, during nursing, and by eating infected rodents. The worms use their sharp mouthparts to latch onto the small intestinal wall and suck the host’s blood.

Tapeworms

Cats commonly get tapeworms by eating infected fleas. Eating infected prey, such as rodents and birds, can also cause tapeworm infections in cats. These worms consist of segments called proglottids that contain eggs and look like white grains of rice when passed in a cat’s poop. Like roundworms, they can multiply enough in the gut to block the intestines.

Giardia

Giardia is a protozoan that is transmitted through contaminated food and water. Due to many cats not showing any symptoms, pet parents may not realize that their cat has giardia.

Coccidia

Coccidia is another protozoan that lives in the small intestine. It is transmitted from mom to kitten during nursing or by ingesting feces from infected wildlife.

Roundworms, hookworms, and giardia are zoonotic, meaning they can be passed from pets to people. For example, roundworms are passed to humans via ingestion of worm eggs that hatch into larvae while in the body. Most of the time, no symptoms occur. However,  roundworm infections in humans can sometimes lead to tissue or nerve damage, or even ocular larva migrans, during which the worm larvae migrate to the eye and can cause irreversible blindness.

7 Symptoms of Intestinal Parasites in Cats

Intestinal parasites, given their location, cause several gastrointestinal symptoms. However, systemic symptoms can also occur. Here are a few symptoms of intestinal parasites in cats to watch for.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is seen with each intestinal parasite described above, resulting from disrupted digestion and nutrient absorption. Diarrhea is bloody with hookworms, and diarrhea from giardia is often watery and profuse, and contains mucus. Tapeworm infections may cause mild diarrhea.

Vomiting

Vomiting is typically seen with roundworms and Giardia.

Potbelly

A pot-bellied appearance is characteristic of a roundworm infection. This appearance occurs when the worms multiply so much in the gut that the abdomen physically expands. 

Weight loss

Weight loss can occur with each of the intestinal parasites because of appetite loss and general gastrointestinal upset.

Poor growth

Poor growth is seen in kittens infected with intestinal parasites. The parasites are essentially “stealing” nutrients from the kitten that are essential for normal growth and development.

Coughing

Coughing is seen with a roundworm infection. After initial infection, the roundworm larvae travel up to the lungs, where they are coughed up and then swallowed. They then reach the small intestines, where they mature into adults.

Pale gums

Hookworm infection causes pale gums because of the blood loss caused by the worms sucking the host’s blood in the small intestine. Pale gums indicate anemia, which can be severe and fatal in young infected kittens.

Other than the potbelly, the symptoms listed here are not specific to intestinal parasites. These symptoms can be found with many other diseases, including other gastrointestinal diseases (e.g. inflammatory bowel syndrome) and diseases of other body systems, such as the respiratory system.

Also, infections with intestinal parasites do not always cause symptoms. For example, many cats with hookworms do not show any outward signs of infection. However, if your young kitten has any of these symptoms, intestinal parasites are a probable culprit.

Cat Intestinal Parasites: Next Steps

If you think your cat has an intestinal parasite, take them to your veterinarian for examination and diagnostic testing.

A fecal exam is the primary way to diagnose intestinal parasites. A fresh fecal sample (no more than 24 hours old) is ideal. Collect a sample from your cat and refrigerate it until your appointment. If you’re understandably squeamish about keeping your cat’s poop in your fridge, try to collect a sample before leaving for the appointment.

If you can’t get a sample at home, your veterinarian will collect one during the appointment.

Your veterinarian will perform a fecal float, in which the feces are mixed with a solution that makes the parasite eggs float to the top of the solution. The liquid is then examined under a microscope.

Giardia and tapeworms are difficult to detect on a fecal exam. Tapeworms are typically diagnosed by seeing the tapeworm segments around a cat’s anus.

Treatment for intestinal worms is with a dewormer medication. Your veterinarian will prescribe the most appropriate dewormer for the type of intestinal worm infecting your cat. 

Be aware that deworming medications kill only adult worms. Therefore, if an infected cat has worm larvae, those larvae may lie dormant and cause reinfection later.

Giardia is treated with antibiotics. However, treatment is difficult because reinfection is common and often associated with stress.

Preventing Intestinal Parasites in Cats

Deworming young kittens is a mainstay of intestinal parasite prevention. Kittens are typically dewormed every two weeks, from 3 to 4 weeks of age until about 3 months of age. Kittens are then dewormed monthly until 6 months of age.

Here are other prevention strategies:

Keep your cat indoors. Keeping your cat indoors will prevent them from eating infected soil, feces, and prey. 

Schedule regular fecal exams. Fecal exams are a routine part of your cat’s wellness exams. Regular fecal exams will help your veterinarian identify intestinal parasites and, if needed, prescribe the most appropriate treatment.

Administer year-round, broad-spectrum parasite prevention. Parasite prevention isn’t just important in the warmer months. Your cat will need year-round prevention to be effectively protected from intestinal parasites.

Prevent fleas. Yes, indoor cats can get fleas! A year-round flea preventative is critical to preventing fleas and subsequent tapeworm infections.

Ask your veterinarian what type of parasite preventative is best suited for your cat. To provide protection against a variety of parasites, consider a broad-spectrum product like NexGard COMBO or Revolution Plus. Simply apply one dose of the topical solution to your cat’s skin once a month to kill fleas and ticks, prevent heartworm disease, and treat and control roundworms and hookworms. NexGard COMBO also includes tapeworm coverage.

Preventing the Passage of Parasites to People

Additionally, it’s important that you take extra precautions to avoid getting infected with the intestinal parasites that can be passed to people.

Promptly get rid of feces. Young children are at high risk of infection with these parasites because they touch almost anything and put their fingers in their mouths. Remove your cat’s feces as soon as possible, and don’t forget to wash your hands immediately after.

Avoid contaminated food and water. Do not drink water that may be contaminated or eat food that was rinsed in contaminated water.

The post 7 Symptoms of Intestinal Parasites in Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

What is Saddle Thrombus?

Saddle thrombus is also known as fatal aortic thromboembolism. That’s quite a mouthful, so let’s define some terms first:

• Thrombus. A thrombus is a large blood clot that forms within a blood vessel and gets stuck. 
• Embolism. An embolism is a small clot that breaks off from the thrombus, travels through the bloodstream, then gets lodged in another blood vessel elsewhere in the body.

With saddle thrombus, the thrombus forms in the left atrium (upper left chamber of the heart). The embolism that breaks off exits the heart through the aorta and eventually gets stuck at the base of the aorta. In some cases, the entire thrombus moves through the aorta.

The base of the aorta is located near the rear limbs, where it splits into the major arteries that supply the hind limbs and tail. This area looks like an upside-down ‘V,’ hence the name “saddle.”

The saddle thrombus causes inflammation where it gets stuck, decreasing circulation to the legs and setting off a sudden cascade of symptoms.

More common in cats than dogs, saddle thrombus is most seen in male adult cats aged 8 to 12 years. [1] The cat breeds at the highest risk of saddle thrombus include Abyssinians, Birmans, and Ragdolls. [1]

Causes of Saddle Thrombus in Cats

The most common cause of saddle thrombus in cats is heart disease, namely hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). HCM is an inward enlargement of the heart muscles, which causes the heart to pump poorly and increases the risk of thrombus formation.

Nearly 90 percent of cats with saddle thrombus have heart disease. [2] However, somewhat confusingly, many cats with heart disease never develop saddle thrombus. Currently, there is no way to predict whether a cat with heart disease will develop the condition.

Less common causes of saddle thrombus cats are cancer and sepsis (bacterial infection in the blood). For some cats, the cause of saddle thrombus remains unknown.

Signs of Saddle Thrombus in Cats

Saddle thrombus occurs suddenly; a cat may be fine one second and in excruciating pain the very next second.

Because it comes on without warning, detecting early signs of saddle thrombus in cats is nearly impossible. Here are the symptoms to look for:

• Loud vocalization
• Rear paw pads are blue
• Rear legs and paw pads feel cold
• Hyperventilation (rapid breathing)
• Paralysis and lameness in one or both rear limbs
• Behavioral changes (aggression, anxiety, frenzy)
• Vomiting

Saddle thrombus may be the first sign of heart disease in cats.

Diagnosing Saddle Thrombus in Cats

Saddle thrombus is a medical emergency, so a diagnosis must be made quickly and accurately to give a cat the best chance of survival.

A veterinarian will typically use the presence of telltale symptoms of saddle thrombus, particularly sudden rear limb paralysis, to diagnose the condition. They will also perform a physical exam and potentially conduct other testing to support the diagnosis.

During the physical exam, the veterinarian will search for a pulse in the rear limbs and determine if they feel cooler than the front limbs. No pulse in the rear limbs and cool-feeling rear limbs are key clues for saddle thrombus.

The veterinarian will listen closely to the heart for abnormal heart rhythms, known as arrhythmias, that may indicate heart disease. They may also perform imaging tests like chest X-rays and an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound), which could demonstrate heart disease.

Blood work, which assesses a cat’s overall health, may be done as well. On the blood work, the veterinarian will look for indications of kidney disease, heart failure, and poor circulation.

Cats with saddle thrombus often need to be stabilized before all the diagnostic testing can be performed. 

Treatment for Saddle Thrombus in Cats

Cats with saddle thrombus must be hospitalized for treatment for at least several days. 

The main treatment goals are:

• Controlling pain
• Managing underlying heart disease
• Improving blood flow through the heart
• Reperfusion (restoring circulation) of the rear limbs

Pain medications are used to control pain, while other medications are given to improve heart function and blood flow.

Blood thinners are administered to prevent both the formation of future clots and the saddle thrombus from getting bigger. Sometimes, the blood clot will resorb on its own.

Intravenous fluid therapy helps improve and restore circulation but can lead to fluid overload in cats with heart disease because their hearts are not pumping well and they have poor circulation.

While it is one of the goals when treating saddle thrombus, reperfusion of the rear limbs is risky. When the saddle thrombus initially cuts off circulation to the rear limbs, cells die and release potassium. Reperfusion can cause a massive rush of potassium to the heart, which can be fatal because too much potassium in the blood can stop the heart.

In addition to these treatments, cats may be given supplemental oxygen and encouraged to eat. Cats that do not eat for several days are at high risk for fatal hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease).

For cats that survive treatment (many don’t), physical therapy helps them regain movement in their rear limbs after blood flow has been restored. Physical therapy could take anywhere from several days to several weeks.

After returning home from saddle thrombus treatment, cats require frequent monitoring, lifelong anti-clotting medication, and heart disease management.

Unfortunately, saddle thrombus treatment for cats is often difficult and unrewarding. 

Prognosis

The prognosis for feline saddle thrombus is usually very poor, with about half of affected cats not surviving treatment. [2]

Frequently, cats who survive saddle thrombus have permanent nervous system damage. Only about 20 percent of cats survive more than one year after their saddle thrombus. [3]

Euthanasia is often selected over treatment for several reasons:

• Extreme pain and discomfort
• Likelihood of saddle thrombus recurrence
• Long-term management of underlying heart disease

How to Prevent Saddle Thrombus in Cats

The best way to prevent saddle thrombus is to detect and start managing heart disease early.

A consultation with a veterinary cardiologist is the ideal way to diagnose heart disease. However, these consults are very expensive and may not be readily available, depending on where you live. Regular wellness exams can help your veterinarian detect heart disease early and begin your cat on a heart disease management plan.

References

1. Aherne, M. Dec. 23, 2020. Feline Arterial Thromboembolism. Today’s Veterinary Practice. Retrieved from https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/cardiology/feline-arterial-thromboembolism/
2. Brooks, W. Feb. 27, 2012. Feline Aortic Thromboembolism (FATE or Saddle Thrombus). Veterinary Partner. Retrieved from https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=102903&id=5307199
3. Borgeat, K et al. “Arterial thromboembolism in 250 cats in general practice: 2004-2012.” Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine vol. 28,1 (2014): 102-8.

The post Saddle Thrombus in Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

However, cats can quickly become seriously ill and will need immediate veterinary care when their liver fails. That’s why it’s important to recognize the symptoms of cat liver failure. This will help you know what to do if your cat’s liver stops working.

Liver Failure Vs. Liver Disease in Cats

First, let’s explain the difference between liver failure and liver disease. 

Liver Disease

Liver disease in cats occurs when an insult to the liver, such as an infection, reduces its ability to function. Cats with liver disease can still function reasonably well because the liver can regenerate itself and continue carrying out most of its functions even when diseased.

Liver Failure

Liver failure occurs when at least 70 percent of the liver’s function is lost, indicating that the liver can withstand quite a bit of injury before liver failure sets in. This massive loss of function can happen suddenly, and a cat will look visibly ill when their liver starts failing.

Without prompt and aggressive treatment, a cat with liver failure is unlikely to survive. 

15 Cat Liver Failure Symptoms

The liver performs many essential functions that affect the entire body. Therefore, liver failure symptoms in cats occur throughout the body.

Since it’s easiest to think of liver failure symptoms according to the body system, that’s how we’ve broken them down.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

The liver performs many digestive functions like converting glucose to energy, producing and releasing bile to help digest food, and storing fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). With liver failure, a cat will experience various digestive issues:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloody poop
• Decreased or complete loss of appetite

Nervous System Symptoms

When the liver fails, a brain condition called hepatic encephalopathy develops because the liver can no longer rid the body of ammonia. This brain disease causes brain tissue to break down, leading to numerous nervous system symptoms:

• Tremors
• Staggering
• Depression
• Altered mental status
• Head pressing against a wall

Urinary Tract (Kidney) Symptoms

The liver plays a significant role in filtering out toxins. When failing, the liver cannot carry out this role. Toxins accumulate in the blood, resulting in more work for the kidneys to filter these toxins and rid the body of them through urine. This extra work eventually damages the kidneys, causing the symptoms listed below:

• Lethargy
• Weight loss
• Increased urination

Hepatobiliary

“Hepatobiliary” is a fancy term for the combination of the liver and gallbladder. When the liver fails, certain symptoms indicate a loss of function of the of these two organs:

• Ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen)
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucus membranes; one of the telltale signs of liver disease and liver failure)

Immune/Lymphatic/Hemic Symptoms

The liver plays an essential role in immune health and clotting ability. Liver failure causes delayed clotting.

What to Do If You Notice Symptoms of Liver Failure in Cats

If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, especially if they appeared suddenly, take your cat to your veterinarian as soon as possible.

It’s also important to understand that some of the symptoms, like vomiting and appetite loss, are not specific to liver failure. Your veterinarian will perform various diagnostic tests to definitively diagnose liver failure in your cat. Just be aware that diagnosing liver failure can be extensive and expensive.

First, your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam and ask you for a detailed history of the problem. They will ask you questions like these:

• What is your cat’s current diet?
• Has your cat recently ingested any poisons?
• What medications does your cat currently take?
• What symptoms have you noticed, and when did they start?

Your veterinarian will assess your cat’s body systems during the physical exam. As previously mentioned, the presence of jaundice in cats is a clear sign that something is wrong with the liver.

Your veterinarian will then perform various diagnostic tests to diagnose liver failure, including:

• Urinalysis
• Abdominal X-rays
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Basic bloodwork: complete blood count, biochemical profile
• Specialized bloodwork, including clotting tests and bile acid measurements
• Exploratory surgery to visualize the liver and take a biopsy

Treatment for Cats with Liver Failure

Quick intervention is necessary for cats with liver failure to give them the best chance of survival and recovery. Your veterinarian will use the results of the physical exam and diagnostic tests to develop the best treatment plan for your cat. 

Treatment is dependent on the underlying cause and is geared toward relieving symptoms:

• Antibiotic therapy
• Oxygen supplementation
• Intravenous fluid therapy
• Anti-nausea medications
• Medications to regulate blood clotting
• Hepatoprotectants to protect the liver
• Nutritional support with a feeding tube
• Diuretics to flush out excess fluid and prevent brain swelling

Cats with liver failure must be hospitalized for treatment and are monitored frequently. Restricted activity is necessary for the liver to regenerate and regain function.

Prognosis for Cats with Liver Failure

Without treatment, the majority of cats with liver failure will not survive. However, receiving treatment does not guarantee survival. The prognosis for a cat with liver failure also depends on the underlying cause and how much of the liver has been damaged before treatment begins.

Cats that survive the first few days of treatment typically have a good chance of recovery, with full recovery taking approximately three to six weeks. Early treatment and intervention greatly improve the chances of recovery.

The post 15 Cat Liver Failure Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore appeared first on Great Pet Care.

However, because cats are the masters of disguise, you may not even know that your cat has this condition until the pain and discomfort are too great to hide.

Let’s go over all you need to know about tooth resorption in cats, including what it is and how to treat it.

What Is Tooth Resorption in Cats?

Tooth resorption occurs when the body attacks healthy tooth tissue by destroying and resorbing it. This disease has gone by several other names:

• Cat caries
• Neck lesions
• Cervical line lesions
• Feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions

It’s helpful to understand some basic tooth anatomy before explaining tooth resorption in detail:

• Enamel: Hard, white outer surface of the tooth
• Crown: Visible part of the tooth above the gumline
• Root: Part of the tooth below the gumline
• Root canal: Inside of the tooth that contains structures like blood vessels and nerves
• Dentin: Hard, bony substance that surrounds the root canal
• Periodontal ligament: Soft tissue that holds the tooth in place

Tooth resorption usually attacks the enamel first and then travels to the inner part of the tooth, causing irreversible damage along the way. What’s left is frequently a bump on the gum line where the affected tooth used to be.

In other cases, tooth resorption leaves a hole in the tooth’s center that resembles a cavity. However, tooth resorption and cavities are different. With tooth resorption, the body is attacking healthy tissue. Cavities occur when acid produced by bacteria in the mouth damages the enamel and dentin. Cats can get cavities, but only rarely.

Feline tooth resorption most commonly affects the lower premolars, the teeth between the canines and molars. It occurs in 20 to 60 percent of all cats and approximately 75 percent of cats over 5 years old (1).

Tooth resorption is categorized into two types, according to what the resorption looks like on a dental X-ray:

• Type 1: The crown is damaged but the root appears normal. The periodontal ligament can easily be seen.
• Type 2 (replacement resorption): The root is disintegrating and resembles bone. 

Causes of Tooth Resorption in Cats

There is no known cause of tooth resorption in cats; all breeds are susceptible. The incidence of tooth resorption often increases with age, with adult cats most affected.

Dental hygiene (or the lack thereof) does not play a role in tooth resorption. Although good oral care helps keep your cat’s mouth healthy, a lack of dental care will not lead to tooth resorption.

Typically, one tooth will be affected initially, and others will follow suit. When multiple teeth are affected, the resorption rate will differ between teeth: one tooth may have advanced resorption, while another may be in the beginning stages.

Cat Tooth Resorption Symptoms

Tooth resorption is extremely painful and uncomfortable, but your cat will do their best to hide it. Hiding pain stems from your cat’s wild ancestry: showing any sign of weakness or discomfort in the wild would make them an easy target.

Despite their best efforts, though, your cat may eventually have noticeable symptoms of tooth resorption. These symptoms are like those seen with other dental diseases when the teeth are unhealthy: 

Eating changes

• Refusal to eat
• Preferring soft food
• Dropping food from the mouth
• Not chewing before swallowing
• Jaw chattering when eating due to pain
• Favoring one side of the mouth when chewing

Other symptoms

• Oral bleeding along the gumline
• Running away from the food bowl at mealtime
• Muscular spasms or trembling in the jaw if the affected area is touched

Not all cats with tooth resorption will show signs of the disease.

Diagnosing Tooth Resorption in Cats

If you notice these symptoms, take your cat to your veterinarian for examination and diagnosis. 

Diagnosing tooth resorption begins with a basic physical exam and history. However, the extent of tooth resorption cannot be adequately assessed just by peering in the mouth during the physical exam. 

Your veterinarian will sedate your cat to take full-mouth dental X-rays and perform an oral exam. The X-rays and oral exam will help your vet rule out other oral health issues, such as periodontal disease, that could be causing your cat’s symptoms. 

The dental X-rays will also allow your veterinarian to determine whether your cat has type 1 or 2 tooth resorption. 

Tooth Resorption in Cats Treatment

Treatment for tooth resorption in cats depends on the type of tooth resorption. 

Type 1 is treated with tooth extraction, including the crown and root. Your veterinarian may refer you to a board-certified veterinary dentist for treatment if your cat’s tooth resorption is moderate to severe.

Type 2 is treated with crown amputation, in which the damaged portion of the tooth is removed while leaving the resorbing root intact.

Pain control is necessary before and after treatment. Before the procedure, your veterinarian (or veterinary dentist) will perform a local nerve block. For a local nerve block, an analgesic such as lidocaine is injected into the nerves near the surgical area to numb the area and relieve pain.

Your veterinarian will prescribe pain medication to reduce your cat’s pain while your  cat is recovering at home. This medication may be a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, such as meloxicam, but your veterinarian will decide which specific pain medication will be best for your cat.

Antibiotics may be given several days before the procedure and then afterward to prevent bacterial infection. However, because antibiotic resistance is a growing problem in veterinary medicine, antibiotics are not given for every dental procedure in pets. Your veterinarian will consider the severity of your cat’s tooth resorption and overall health to determine whether antibiotics would be necessary.

How Much Does It Cost To Treat Tooth Resorption in Cats?

Treatment for tooth resorption is pricey. The total cost of treatment depends on many factors:

• Oral exam
• Dental X-rays
• Preoperative blood work
• Anesthesia
• Medications
• Type of procedure (extraction or crown amputation)
• Number of teeth to be extracted
• Hospitalization
• Surgical supplies
• Need for a veterinary dentist
• Where you live

Generally, diagnosis, preoperative blood work, and anesthesia will cost several hundred dollars. Extractions can cost about $100 each. However, the total cost will vary from one cat to the next and could cost as much as several thousand dollars if you are referred to a veterinary dentist. 

With so many individual costs, request a detailed estimate when discussing treatment options with your veterinarian. 

How to Prevent Tooth Resorption in Cats

Tooth resorption in cats is not preventable. However, good at-home and professional oral care goes a long way in keeping your cat’s mouth healthy. At-home care includes brushing your cat’s teeth once daily or every other day. 

Your veterinarian can recommend at-home feline dental products. You can also browse the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) website for VOHC-accepted products.

Annual wellness exams, dental X-rays, and dental cleanings will complement good at-home care to detect oral disease early and keep your cat’s mouth as healthy as possible.

References

1. “Tooth Resorption.” Cornell Feline Health Center. Retrieved from https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/tooth-resorption

The post Tooth Resorption in Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Feline heart disease affects about 15 percent of cats. It is often called the “silent disease,” only making itself known when advanced.

With few exceptions, heart disease in cats is not curable. But, with careful monitoring and management, cats with heart disease can enjoy a good quality of life. 

Here’s everything you need to know about cat heart disease.

Cat Heart Anatomy

Understanding the basics of cat heart anatomy and function is a good first step to learning about cat heart disease.

Like the human heart, the cat heart is divided into four chambers: the left and right atria on top and the left and right ventricles on the bottom. A thick wall of muscle called the septa separates the ventricles. A thin, double-walled protective sac called the pericardium encloses the heart.

Heart valves ensure proper blood flow through the heart and then out to the rest of the body. This blood flow is tightly controlled by electrical signals that regulate when the heart contracts (squeezes) and relaxes.

The heart is vital to a cat’s overall health. It must work with perfect efficiency to pump oxygen-rich blood to the brain, lungs, and other organs.  

Types of Cat Heart Disease

Heart disease is defined as any disease process that affects normal heart function. The types of cat heart disease are broadly categorized as congenital or acquired.

Congenital Heart Disease in Cats

Congenital heart disease is a heart defect that develops during fetal development. Although some congenital heart diseases are apparent at birth, others may not cause symptoms until later in a cat’s life.

The most common types of congenital heart disease in cats are heart valve malformations, ventricular septal defect (VSD), and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).

• Heart valve malformations: Heart valve malformations disrupt the normal blood flow through the heart. The most common heart valve malformation in cats involves the mitral valve, which separates the left atrium and left ventricle.
• Ventricular septal defect (VSD): VSD occurs when a hole develops in the septa, leading to abnormal blood flow through the heart.
• Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA): PDA occurs when a blood vessel (ductus arteriosus) that connects the aorta and pulmonary artery during fetal development remains open instead of closing soon after birth. PDA causes an overflow of blood from the heart to the lungs in newborn kittens.

Acquired Heart Disease in Cats

Acquired heart disease occurs later in a cat’s life, typically in adulthood. The most common type of acquired heart disease in cats is cardiomyopathy, a broad term that describes abnormal heart muscle. Three main cardiomyopathies affect cats:

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): HCM in cats occurs when the ventricle’s muscle wall becomes too thick. It is a genetic disease and the most common form of feline cardiomyopathy.
• Restrictive cardiomyopathy: Restrictive cardiomyopathy occurs when the ventricle’s inner lining becomes scarred, making it hard for the ventricle to contract and relax fully.
• Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM): DCM is rare in cats. It occurs when the ventricular muscle becomes thin and flaccid, preventing the ventricle from fully contracting and relaxing.

When heart disease becomes so advanced that the heart can no longer pump blood efficiently, congestive heart failure (CHF) develops. CHF is end-stage heart disease. It is life-threatening and requires intensive and potentially aggressive medical treatment.

Causes of Cat Heart Disease

The cause of many cases of heart disease in cats is not known. However, there are a few known causes of feline heart disease.

Congenital heart disease is caused by a heart defect during fetal development that may be genetic.

Underlying medical conditions, including hyperthyroidism, anemia, and high blood pressure, can cause acquired heart disease in cats.

In addition, a deficiency of the amino acid taurine can cause DCM. Taurine deficiencies in cats are uncommon, mainly because commercial cat diets are formulated to contain sufficient taurine for a cat’s dietary needs.

Some cat breeds are genetically predisposed to heart disease. For example, Maine Coon cats, American and British Shorthairs, and Persian cats have a high risk of developing HCM. Siamese cats are predisposed to developing PDA.

Symptoms of Heart Disease in Cats

With feline heart disease, symptoms are often absent until late in the disease process. Some of the symptoms we’ve listed below, such as lethargy and weakness, aren’t specific to heart disease but do signal that something is not quite right.

Sudden collapse and sudden hind limb paralysis warrant an immediate trip to your veterinarian or a veterinary emergency hospital.

• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Pale gums
• Weight loss
• Stunted growth
• Sudden collapse
• Decreased appetite
• Difficult, rapid breathing
• Arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm)
• Sudden hind limb paralysis (indicates a blood clot)

Unlike dogs, cats with heart disease rarely cough.

Diagnosing Heart Disease in Cats

Diagnosing heart disease in cats involves a physical exam, imaging tests, and various laboratory tests.

On the physical exam, a veterinarian will pay close attention to the heart, listening for a heart murmur (abnormal heart rhythm). Heart murmurs do not always indicate heart disease but may be present with the disease.

Imaging tests include chest X-rays, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and an echocardiogram. Chest X-rays may reveal an enlarged heart, which strongly indicates heart disease. However, an X-ray will not provide information about the type of heart disease.

An ECG assesses the heart rate and rhythm. But, like the X-ray, an ECG does not help diagnose a specific type of heart disease.

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. It is the most definitive way to diagnose heart disease. It provides a detailed picture of the heart’s dimensions and muscle wall thickness and measures how well the heart can contract.

Laboratory tests can help identify an underlying cause of the heart disease. For example, blood work may reveal hyperthyroidism or anemia.

A more specific blood test measures NT-proBNP, a protein whose presence in the blood indicates heart disease and the disease’s severity but not the type of heart disease.

Measuring blood pressure helps determine whether high blood pressure could be contributing to a cat’s heart disease.

Cat Heart Disease Treatment

Treatment for heart disease in cats depends on the type and severity of heart disease and its underlying cause.

Besides PDA, which can be treated surgically, treatment for congenital and acquired heart disease is with medication, if necessary. If a cat with heart disease has no symptoms or only mild symptoms, regular monitoring may be all that’s needed until symptoms appear or worsen.

Several types of medications are available to manage heart disease in cats. Here’s a list of those medications and how they work:

• Diuretic: Flushes out excess fluid from the lungs or abdomen
• ACE inhibitor: Relaxes blood vessels and reduces blood pressure
• Pimobendan: Improves heart function by improving contractility
• Beta blocker: Slows the heart rate, reduces blood pressure
• Calcium channel blocker: Slows the heart rate, helps the heart pump more efficiently, reduces blood pressure

Prognosis for Cats with Heart Disease

The prognosis for cats with heart disease will depend on the type and severity of heart disease. Kittens with severe congenital heart disease will have a poor prognosis. The prognosis is better with mild heart disease.

How to Prevent Heart Disease in Cats

Heart disease in cats cannot be prevented. However, regular wellness visits can help your veterinarian detect heart disease early and develop a management plan to slow disease progression and, as much as possible, maintain a good quality of life for your cat.

The post Cat Heart Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Allergies are the outward sign of the immune system’s overreaction to an allergen (allergy-causing substance). They are common in cats and can range from mildly irritating to life-threatening.

Learning how to spot cat allergy symptoms in your pet is an essential part of helping ease their discomfort. You’ll need your veterinarian to diagnose what’s causing the allergy and decide on the right treatment. But whether that’s an oral allergy medication like Atopica, a specialized diet, supplements, or parasite prevention, it all starts with knowing what signs of allergy to watch out for. 

7 Common Cat Allergy Symptoms

The signs of allergies in cats are variable and can depend on the type of allergy and severity of the allergic reaction. For example, symptoms may appear suddenly when an allergic reaction is severe and immediate or take years to develop after repeated exposures to a particular allergen. 

As you read through the list of symptoms of allergies in cats below, be aware that these symptoms do not always automatically point to an allergy. However, it’s worth noting signs of allergies and keeping a record of what you noticed (and when) so you can share that info with your veterinarian.

To make that easier, you can sign up for a free GreatPetCare account so you can keep your cat’s important health details at your fingertips. There’s also a GreatHealthCare app that lets you log symptoms, photos, or questions you want to share with your vet.

Depending on your cat’s symptoms and severity, your vet may need to do some diagnostic detective work to determine whether these signs are due to an allergy or another medical condition.

Here are seven common cat allergy symptoms to look for:

Local or generalized itchiness

Allergies can make cats feel itchy in certain spots or are all over. For example, fleas tend to bite in hard-to-reach areas, like the back of the neck, making a cat feel itchy in that spot. Environmental allergies can cause generalized itchiness.

Hair loss

Allergies can make a cat’s skin very itchy, leading to constant irritation and scratching. This scratching leads to hair breakage and hair loss. Cats with allergies often have patches of hair loss from the itching and scratching.

Red, dry, flaky skin

Along with the itchiness and hair loss, cats with allergies commonly have red, dry, and flaky skin because of the constant skin irritation and discomfort.

Digestive upset

Cats with food allergies can experience digestive symptoms when something they eat upsets their tummy. For example, if a cat is allergic to chicken, eating a chicken-based food may cause symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.

Itchy, watery eyes

Do you get itchy, watery eyes when there’s a lot of pollen in the air? A cat’s eyes can also become itchy and watery when they’re allergic to something in the environment. Even for strictly indoor cats, dust or strong scents can trigger an allergic reaction that causes itchy, watery eyes. If these symptoms persist, contact a vet as they may also be signs of an eye infection.

Coughing

Cats with allergic bronchitis, also known as asthma, will cough in response to an allergen that irritates their lungs.

Ear infections

Interestingly, food and environmental allergies in cats can lead to ear infections. 

Other Symptoms to Watch For

Other symptoms of allergies in cats to watch for include:

• Sneezing
• Itchy ears
• Nasal discharge
• Incessant grooming
• Difficulty breathing*
• Swelling (e.g., lips, paws)
• Conjunctivitis (swollen inner lining of the eyelid)

* Difficulty breathing in cats is a medical emergency. If your cat has trouble breathing, immediately take them to your veterinarian or a veterinary emergency hospital.

Diagnosing Allergies in Cats

Diagnosing a cat allergy can be challenging, time-consuming, and expensive, depending on the type of allergy. 

Before going into the diagnostic process, let’s first describe the types of cat allergies:

• Flea allergy: Yes, cats can and do get fleas. Proteins in a flea’s saliva can cause an allergic reaction, making the skin feel very itchy.
• Food allergy: Animal proteins, such as chicken and beef, are common causes of food allergies in cats. Less common food allergens include corn and wheat.
• Atopic dermatitis (environmental allergies): Substances in the environment, like pollen and grasses, can trigger an allergic skin reaction in cats. These allergies are typically seasonal but may occur year-round, especially with indoor allergens like dust and mold.
• Contact allergy: Rarely, substances that your cat contacts, such as shampoo or wool, can cause an allergic skin reaction.
• Cutaneous drug eruptions: Drugs can sometimes trigger an allergic reaction in cats, but this is uncommon.
• Allergic bronchitis (feline asthma): Allergic bronchitis is triggered by substances in the air, such as cigarette smoke or perfume. The allergic reaction causes the airways to become inflamed and constricted, making breathing difficult.

To diagnose an allergy in your cat, your veterinarian will first take a detailed history and conduct a physical exam. The history and physical exam will give your veterinarian the initial clues as to what type of allergy your cat may have.

Your veterinarian will then conduct diagnostic tests specific to the suspected allergy type: 

Flea allergy

Diagnosis is usually based on physical exam and history. If fleas are not seen on the cat, a positive response to flea treatment will confirm the diagnosis.

Food allergy

Diagnosing a food allergy requires an 8- to 12-week food elimination trial to identify the food allergen. During the trial, a cat eats only a novel protein diet (a diet containing a protein your cat has never eaten) with no extra treats, human food, or flavored medications. These trials are conducted with veterinary supervision and can be challenging.

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis can be diagnosed with a blood test or intradermal skin testing. The blood test looks for levels of antibodies in the blood that are responsible for inciting the immune response to an allergen. 

The skin test is the gold standard for diagnosing atopic dermatitis. The veterinarian injects tiny amounts of suspected allergens under the skin and waits for an allergic response to occur (skin swelling) that would identify the allergen. 

Contact allergy

Diagnosing a contact allergy can be expensive and time-consuming. The veterinarian applies a tiny patch of potential allergen (e.g., wool) to a cat’s skin. The area with the patch is monitored daily for the next 1 to 2 weeks for an allergic reaction. With so many potential contact allergens, diagnosing contact allergies can be time-consuming and difficult.

Cutaneous drug eruption

Diagnosing a drug allergy relies on knowing the history of medications a cat has recently taken. Symptoms that appeared soon after a particular drug was administered and stopped after the drug was discontinued indicate a drug allergy.

Allergic bronchitis

Chest X-rays are used to diagnose allergic bronchitis. 

Treatment for Allergies in Cats

As with allergies in people, allergies in cats are usually managed, not cured. Depending on the type of allergy, your cat may require lifelong allergy management to minimize the risk of future allergic reactions and treat allergy flare-ups.  

Flea allergies – The best way to prevent flea allergies is to treat your cat with year-round flea prevention, even for strictly indoor cats. Ask your veterinarian about the best way to protect your cat. Depending on where you live and the parasite risks in your region, they may recommend an oral or topical flea preventative or a combination product that targets fleas, ticks, heartworms and other parasites.

Food allergies – Treating food allergies in cats is simple, but not always easy. To avoid allergic flare-ups, you need to feed your cat a diet free of allergy-inducing ingredients. However, determining those allergens can be challenging. Once your veterinarian identifies the allergen through a food elimination trial, they can recommend a diet to help prevent future allergic reactions. Depending on the type and severity of your cat’s food allergies, that could be a novel protein diet, a limited ingredient diet, or a hydrolyzed diet, in which proteins are broken down (hydrolyzed) into tiny particles that are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction.

Environmental allergies – There are several medications your veterinarian may prescribe to treat atopic dermatitis caused by environmental allergens, including steroids, antihistamines, and immunosuppressive drugs.

While steroids provide rapid itch relief, they can also cause serious side effects. And antihistamines aren’t always effective against allergic itch in cats. That’s why veterinarians often recommend immunosuppressive drugs like Atopica (cyclosporine) to treat non-flea, non-food allergies in cats. Atopica offers the effective itch relief of steroids without the side effects and is generally more reliable than antihistamine treatments. However, it’s important to note that it can take up to 30 days to be maximally effective.

Atopic dermatitis is managed with various medications, including steroids, antihistamines, and immunosuppressive drugs. Steroids provide rapid and effective relief, while antihistamines’ effectiveness is mixed. Immunosuppressive drugs like cyclosporine tamp down the allergic reaction’s intensity but can take up to 30 days to be maximally effective.

Managing contact and drug allergies is relatively straightforward. Avoiding the offending substance or drug is typically sufficient to prevent future allergic reactions.

Allergic bronchitis can be managed with medications to decrease inflammation and relax and open the airways. Cats with severe allergic bronchitis may need to be hospitalized and receive more aggressive treatment.

The post 7 Symptoms of Allergies in Cats You Shouldn’t Ignore appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Many dogs have not been exposed to the canine influenza virus, meaning they don’t yet have immunity to the disease. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, about 80 percent of dogs exposed to the virus will get sick with symptoms like a soft, moist cough, nasal discharge, and lethargy.

Canine influenza is rarely fatal, but it can make dogs feel crummy. Because this disease is highly contagious, protecting dogs from exposure to the canine influenza virus is important.

The canine influenza vaccine is the best way to protect dogs from this disease. The more dogs that get vaccinated, the less the virus will be able to circulate throughout the dog population and cause disease.

What Is the Canine Influenza Vaccine?

There are currently two canine influenza vaccines, and both are FDA approved. They are available in veterinary practices nationwide, with no need to see a veterinary specialist to get the vaccine.

This vaccine is considered a non-core vaccine, meaning that not every dog needs to receive it. The 2022 American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Guidelines state that non-core vaccines are “recommended for some dogs based on lifestyle, geographic location, and risk of exposure.”

Because the canine influenza vaccine is not a core vaccine, there are currently no legal requirements on the state or municipal level for dog flu vaccination. However, certain animal facilities, such as doggie daycares and boarding facilities, may require dog flu vaccination to prevent the spread of the disease in the facility.

How Does the Flu Shot for Dogs Work?

The canine influenza vaccine is a bivalent vaccine, meaning that it protects against the two strains of the canine influenza virus: H3N2 and H3N8.

The vaccine is made up of inactivated (killed) canine influenza virus. The killed virus will stimulate the immune system without causing disease. However, compared with other vaccine formulations, killed virus vaccines may have a shorter duration of immunity and may cause more negative side effects.

The canine influenza vaccine also contains adjuvants that help boost the immune response.

Note that the vaccine does not provide 100 percent protection against the dog flu. However, it does help reduce the duration and severity of illness in dogs that get the disease.

Canine Influenza Vaccination Schedule for Dogs

According to the AAHA Vaccination Guidelines, the canine influenza vaccination schedule is two doses 2 to 4 weeks apart, followed by an annual booster. It can be given to any dog who is over 8 weeks old. 

Possible Side Effects of the Dog Flu Shot

As with all dog vaccines, the canine influenza vaccine comes with potential side effects. Most dogs tolerate the vaccine very well and have either mild or no side effects, while some dogs may have severe adverse reactions that require medical attention.

Here are the more common and mild side effects of the canine influenza vaccine:

• Pain and swelling at the injection site
• Lethargy
• Reduced appetite

Serious side effects are listed below:

• Hives
• Collapse
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Swelling of the face, neck, eyes, or muzzle

Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog develops severe side effects after vaccination.

The canine influenza vaccine does not react with medications or other vaccinations.

Manufacturers of the Canine Influenza Vaccine for Dogs

Merck and Zoetis each manufacture the canine influenza vaccine.

Merck’s canine influenza vaccine is the Nobivac Canine Flu Bivalent. It was the first vaccine to demonstrate effectiveness against both strains of the virus. It received FDA approval in 2017 and can be given to dogs 7 weeks and older.

The canine influenza vaccine from Zoetis is called Vanguard CIV H3N2/H3N8. It also received FDA approval in 2017 and can be given to dogs 8 weeks and older.

Zoetis does have monovalent canine influenza vaccines that protect against one or the other strain of canine influenza virus. However, on their website, the company “strongly recommends that these vaccines be used only if a dog is lacking vaccination against one of the two strains, and then continue with the use of Vanguard CIV H3N2/H3N8.”

Costs of the Canine Influenza Vaccine

The cost of the vaccine will vary according to veterinary practice and geographic location. Generally, the vaccine costs approximately $20 to $55.

If your veterinarian performs a physical exam before administering the vaccination, expect to also pay for the cost of the office visit. The vaccine and office visit together could cost upwards of $100.

Low-cost vaccine clinics provide an inexpensive option to get your dog vaccinated. Contact your local low-cost vaccine clinics to ask whether they have the canine influenza vaccine.

Does Your Dog Need the Flu Shot?

That depends. Here are some factors that increase a dog’s risk of getting the dog flu:

• Traveling extensively
• Going to doggie daycare
• Staying at a boarding facility
• Frequently visiting the dog park
• Participating in social events, such as dog shows and agility events

In older dogs, respiratory disease and heart disease can increase the risk of getting the dog flu. Also, brachycephalic (smoosh-faced) breeds are at higher risk of canine influenza because their facial structure makes it harder for them to breathe.

Talk with your veterinarian if you’re unsure whether the flu shot is right for your dog.

The post Canine Influenza Vaccine: All About the Dog Flu Shot appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Don’t worry, you’re not alone. In this article we’ll go through everything you need to know about congestion in dogs. What does it sound like? What causes it? What you can do to treat and prevent it? Keep reading to learn the answers.

Do Dogs Get Congested?

Yes, dogs get congested. They share many of the same symptoms we experience, such as sneezing and coughing.

Congestion in dogs occurs for many reasons, such as upper respiratory infections or allergies. It isn’t life-threatening, but you may feel concern if your dog starts showing the symptoms.

Viral and bacterial respiratory infections in dogs are highly contagious. It doesn’t take much for dogs in close contact with each other to get sick and start sounding congested.

Some dogs are naturally prone to congestion. Brachycephalic dogs, like Bulldogs, can sound congested because of their smoosh-faced facial structure. They have short snouts, making breathing more difficult. Congestion in these breeds is normal, but may need medical treatment if it’s causing breathing challenges.

What Dog Congestion Sounds Like

If your dog is congested, you’ll hear it. Dogs who experience congestion often cough, and that cough can be distinctive. For example, dogs with kennel cough have a dry, “goose honk” cough.

Coughing due to congestion may worsen when a dog is lying down at night. Severe coughing fits can even make a dog gag or retch, which is far from pleasant to hear.

A congested dog can also have noisy, labored, and rapid breathing. This is because they have to work extra hard to get oxygen into their body. They might breathe with their mouth open as their nose is too stuffy for oxygen to pass through the nasal passages. Sneezing and snoring are also common in congested dogs.  

Why Is My Dog Congested?

There are several potential reasons why your dog is congested. Many cases of dog congestion come from viral, bacterial, or fungal infections. Others may be due to chronic disease. Here’s a list of what could be causing your dog’s congestion:

Viruses

• Canine influenza virus (dog flu)
• Canine respiratory coronavirus
• Canine adenovirus type 2
• Canine parainfluenza virus
• Canine distemper virus

Bacteria

• Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough)

Fungi

• Aspergillus

Dogs can spread viral and bacterial infections through respiratory droplets on shared items like food bowls and toys. The fungi Aspergillus can get breathed in as a dog roots through the soil with their nose. When these tiny pathogens enter the airways, the immune system fights back, causing congestion.

Beyond these common causes, there are other reasons your dog may be congested.

Seasonal allergies. Dogs with seasonal allergies are allergic to environmental substances, like pollen. Breathing in these allergens triggers an allergic response, causing congestion.

Congestive heart failure. An end-stage heart disease, congestive heart failure is when the heart can no longer pump blood effectively. It causes fluid to accumulate and leak out of the blood vessels. A fluid buildup in the lungs can lead to symptoms of congestion, like coughing and difficulty breathing.

Heartworms. Heartworms get lodged in the pulmonary (lung) arteries and damage the lungs. Dogs with heartworms often cough and have difficulty breathing.

Foreign object. If something is stuck in your dog’s nose, their immune system will work hard to get it out, causing dog nasal congestion symptoms such as sneezing and a runny nose.

Respiratory tumors. A tumor in the respiratory tract can block the normal flow of air, leading to congestion.

Obesity. Excess weight makes the heart and lungs work extra hard. More pressure on the lungs can lead to a dog having difficulty breathing and sounding congested.

Diagnosing the Cause of Dog Congestion

Call your veterinarian if your dog sounds congested. Not all cases of congestion warrant a trip to the doctor, but do not assume that home remedies are all your dog needs.

Your veterinarian will advise you on bringing your dog in for an appointment. If your dog sounds congested when breathing, is lethargic, or isn’t eating or drinking well, see your vet.

During the appointment, your veterinarian will perform a physical exam, paying close attention to your dog’s lungs, heart, and nose.

Diagnostic tests will help your veterinarian figure out why your dog is congested. Blood work will give clues about your dog’s general health; chest x-rays will help them see abnormalities in your dog’s lungs or heart.

To look in your dog’s nose, your vet may order a rhinoscopy. That’s helpful if they suspect a foreign body or tumor in the nose.

Treating Congestion in Dogs

Treating congestion in dogs depends on the underlying cause. Your vet may recommend these treatments following a proper diagnosis:

• Infection – If an infection is causing your dog’s congestion, the vet will tailor treatment based on the type and severity. For example, you usually won’t get an antiviral for viral respiratory infections like the flu or kennel cough. Instead, your vet may recommend at-home care until the illness runs its course (usually 5 to 10 days).  If there’s a high risk of secondary infection, like in puppies or immune-compromised dogs, the vet may prescribe doxycycline.
• Allergies – If your dog’s congestion stems from an allergic reaction to inhaled allergens like ragweed, pollen, or dust, your veterinarian may prescribe an antihistamine. These might include Vetadryl Flavored Tablets or generic options, like cetirizine or diphenhydramine.
• Congestive Heart Failure – For dogs with congestive heartfailure, veterinarians often prescribe a diuretic, such as Salix tablets (or the generic form, furosemide). 
• Heartworms – If your dog tests positive for heartworm disease, your vet will prescribe a treatment plan based on its severity. And to help your dog breathe easier during treatment, your vet may prescribe a steroid like prednisone, which can lower the inflammation in the lungs and blood vessels. 
• Obesity – Some dogs are predisposed to develop obesity, which can cause congestion, especially in brachycephalic breeds. If your veterinarian determines that excess weight is causing congested breathing, they may prescribe a weight management diet. Some options include Hill’s Prescription Diet Metabolic Weight Management or Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets OM Overweight Management dog food.

Talk to your vet first before giving your dog any over-the-counter (OTC) medicines to relieve their congestion. These medicines may contain ingredients that are safe for people but toxic to dogs.  

Benadryl is a common OTC medicine for relieving allergy-related congestion in humans, but should only be given to dogs with veterinary supervision and guidance.

Home Remedies for Dog Congestion

For mild congestion, at-home supportive care includes rest, hydration, and good nutrition. Adding moisture to the air can make breathing easier. Consider using a humidifier or inviting your dog into the bathroom while you shower.

Wipe your pup’s nose and eyes with a warm, damp cloth to remove nasal discharge as you see it, too.

How to Prevent Dog Congestion

Because there are so many potential causes of congestion in dogs, preventing it is not entirely practical. Vaccines are the best form of prevention against viral and bacterial respiratory infections. Limiting your dog’s time in crowded dog facilities like doggie daycares can also help decrease your dog’s risk of getting congested from these infections.

People commonly take supplements that claim to boost immune health, but these are not recommended for dogs. Currently, there’s no scientific evidence that immune-boosting supplements are beneficial for dogs.

The post My Dog Sounds Congested: 9 Reasons It Might Be Happening appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Many conditions can disrupt a dog’s normal heart rate, causing organs not to get the vital blood they need to function properly. That’s not something to take lightly. An abnormal heart rate often signals the need for veterinary care and attention.

What constitutes an abnormal heart rate in dogs? What can you do about it? Can cardiovascular nutritional supplements promote a normal dog heart rate? We’ll answer these questions and more so you can help keep your dog’s heart (and heart rate) going strong.

Why Understanding a Dog’s Heart Rate Matters

Knowing your dog’s normal heart rate will help you and your veterinarian quickly recognize when the rate is abnormal.

A normal dog heart rate is also known as the resting heart rate, the rate at which the heart beats when the body is at rest (like when you’re sitting still at the doctor’s office while a nurse takes your heart rate).

Regularly monitoring your dog’s resting heart rate will give you an accurate estimate of what’s normal. No need to buy a stethoscope, though. Later in the article, we’ll explain how to measure your dog’s heart rate without special equipment.

Also, you don’t have to check your dog’s heart rate every week. A dog’s resting heart rate stays steady over time. An occasional check at home and heart rate checks at each veterinary appointment are sufficient for the average, healthy dog.

Changes in heart rate can signal an underlying health issue that needs attention. Other times, though, a change in heart rate is normal and temporary, such as an increased heart rate with exercise. Your veterinarian can help you determine whether a change in heart rate is normal or indicates an actual health problem.

What Is a Normal Dog Heart Rate?

A dog’s normal heart rate primarily depends on their size and age. Normal heart rates are generally higher in puppies and small dogs than in adult dogs and large dogs.

Here’s a chart of average heart rates in dogs, measured in beats per minute (BPM):

An abnormally slow heart rate is called bradycardia, while an abnormally fast heart rate is called tachycardia.

Abnormal Heart Rates in Dogs

Abnormal heart rates in dogs are either physiologic (normal and temporary) or pathologic (caused by an underlying health issue).

Bradycardia occurs when the heart beats too slowly. Here are some causes of bradycardia in dogs:

Physiologic

• Very athletic dog

Pathologic

• Liver or kidney failure
• Hypokalemia (low potassium levels)
• Myocarditis (heart muscle inflammation)
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland)

Tachycardia occurs when the heart beats too quickly. A rapid heartbeat doesn’t allow the heart’s chambers to fully refill with blood between contractions (when the heart ‘squeezes’). Here are common causes of tachycardia in dogs:

Physiologic

• Stress
• Exercise
• Anxiety
• Excitement

Pathologic

• Fever
• Shock
• Infection
• Dehydration
• Low blood pressure
• Congestive heart failure

How to Check a Dog’s Heart Rate

Check your dog’s heart rate regularly when your dog is at rest.

There are several places on your dog’s body where you can check the heart rate:

• Directly over the heart: Place your hand on the left side of the chest, behind the elbow of the left front leg.
• Inside the front of the right or left hind leg.

Even though the heart rate is reported as beats per minute (BPM), you do not have to count for 60 seconds. Instead, count the number of beats for 15 seconds, then multiply that number by four. For example, if you count 30 beats in 15 seconds, the heart rate is 120 BPM (30 x 4).

Track the time with a watch, stopwatch, or your phone’s timer. Also, take your dog’s heart rate several times to ensure your measurement is accurate. Write down the measurement, especially if it’s abnormal.

Abnormal Dog Heart Rate: Next Steps

Take your dog to your veterinarian if your dog’s heart rate is abnormal and you’re unsure why. During the appointment, tell your veterinarian what heart rate you measured at home. They will perform a physical exam and listen closely to your dog’s heart.

Your veterinarian will then perform other diagnostic tests to examine your dog’s heart. One such test is an electrocardiogram, which evaluates the heart’s electrical activity. An echocardiogram is an ultrasound that shows the heart’s structures and how the heart is beating and pumping blood. A chest X-ray may show an abnormal appearance of the heart (e.g., enlargement).

In addition, your veterinarian will perform bloodwork and a urinalysis to evaluate your dog’s overall health and look for evidence of an underlying illness.

Treating an Abnormal Heart Rate

An abnormal heart rate can lead to other health problems, so it is essential to re-establish a normal heart rate.

In cases of physiologic changes, such as exercise or anxiety, treatment may not be necessary. However, if your dog has an underlying illness, that illness will need to be treated and managed to get your dog’s heart rate back to normal.

For example, if your dog is diagnosed with congestive heart disease, a medication like Vetmedin (pimobendan) can help relax and open up coronary blood vessels, reducing the strain on the heart and stabilizing your dog’s heart rate.

Some dog breeds are predisposed to cardiovascular stress, while others may experience changes in their heart rate as they age. Ask your vet if your dog would benefit from a cardiovascular nutritional supplement to help maintain a normal heart rate. These supplements come in a variety of forms, from tasty chews to capsules, and feature natural ingredients that help support healthy cardiac function. Such as:

• Taurine – an amino acid used to treat types of heart disease in dogs caused by a taurine deficiency
• Potassium and Magnesium – help the heart muscle contract and relax
• Selenium – protects the integrity of blood vessels
• Arginine and Hawthorn berry extract – promote circulation and normal blood pressure

The post Normal Dog Heart Rate: What Should It Be? appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Fleas can become a big problem within a few days of landing on your cat. Not only do they need to be eliminated as quickly and effectively as possible, but they must also be prevented from returning. 

That’s why veterinarians recommend a year-round preventative for your cat, like Revolution Plus… because it’s a lot easier to prevent flea infestations than it is to get rid of fleas once they appear.

Before we get into all that, let’s start by answering the main question you’re probably wondering: how do cats get fleas?

How Do Cats Get Fleas?

Contrary to popular belief, fleas cannot fly. Instead, they use their strong legs to jump and land on a cat’s body. Fleas can jump an average of 8 inches, which is quite far, given their tiny size.

The cat flea (also known as Ctenocephalides felis) can easily hop on indoor cats who occasionally spend time outside with their owners. Indoor cats who freely roam outside are also easy targets for fleas.

But how do indoor cats get fleas if they rarely or never venture outside? Unfortunately, cat fleas have found clever ways to get inside your home and onto your kitty:

Other pets. If you have a dog, your dog can carry fleas inside the home after a walk or playtime outside. Even if your dog is on a year-round flea preventative, fleas can ingeniously hop off your dog and onto your cat before getting killed 

Humans. Cat fleas can hitch a ride inside on your clothes or shoes.

Rodents. Rodents can have fleas. If you have a rodent problem in your home, fleas will have easy access to your cat.

Traveling. Traveling can be as simple as going to the veterinarian’s office. Other pets in the waiting room may have fleas that can jump onto your cat.

New home. A new home may look spotless, but immature fleas may be biding their time in the crooks and crevices of the house, waiting to become adults and jump onto your cat.

Old furniture. Did you recently buy furniture from a yard sale or consignment store? That furniture may also have immature fleas. 

The Flea Life Cycle

Understanding the flea life cycle goes along with knowing how your cat can get fleas.  

Adult fleas land on a cat and promptly start feeding on their blood. Adult female fleas then begin laying eggs – up to 40 to 50 per day! These eggs fall off the host and hatch after about 12 days as flea larvae. The larvae wrap themselves in a cocoon and mature into pupae.

The pupae can be dormant in their cocoons for months, even years. When the pupae sense that a host is nearby, they will emerge from their cocoons as mature adults. Mature adults will jump onto their host within a few hours of coming out of their cocoon, and the cycle begins again.

It’s also important to note that adult fleas comprise only a small percentage (5 percent) of the flea population in a home. Eggs make up 50 percent, larvae make up 35 percent, and pupae make up 10 percent.

How to Tell a Cat Has Fleas

Fleas are tiny and difficult to find on your cat. But they irritate a cat’s skin and can cause significant discomfort. Here are the common signs and symptoms of a cat flea infestation:

• Patches of hair loss
• Excessive grooming
• Constant itching and scratching
• Red, scabbed skin from scratching

Fleas also leave behind flea dirt, which is rust-colored flea poop. You can see flea dirt on your cat and where your cat likes to spend time, such as their bed or a cat tree.

Because fleas take a blood meal, a severe flea infestation can cause anemia, especially in kittens. Signs of anemia include lethargy and pale gums. This can be life-threatening in kittens and requires immediate veterinary treatment.

How to Get Rid of Fleas on Cats

Before going over the different flea treatments for cats, it’s important to note few considerations:

1. It can take at least three months to eliminate all flea life stages successfully.
2. All pets in the home need to be treated for fleas simultaneously, not just your cat.
3. Your home (indoors and outdoors) must be treated to eliminate all fleas and sources of fleas.

When it comes to eliminating fleas on cats, there are several treatment options available. Some treat active infestations, while others break the flea life cycle and prevent future infestations.

Shampoos. Flea shampoos are fast-acting and kill adult fleas on contact. However, they don’t provide long-term flea control.

Spot-on treatments and oral tablets. Both of these options break the flea life cycle and do provide long-term flea control (up to several months). They may contain an adulticide or an insect growth regulator (IGR). IGRs break the life cycle at the larval stage, preventing fleas from maturing into adults.

Natural remedies. Natural flea treatments often contain essential oils and have become more popular recently. However, they are not nearly as effective as insecticide-containing flea treatments. Also, if not used properly, essential oils can be toxic to cats.

Flea comb. Because the typical flea treatments are generally considered unsafe for kittens younger than 8 to 10 weeks old and weighing less than 1.5 to 2 pounds, the best option for them is a flea comb. After combing through your kitten’s fur, immediately dip the comb in a bowl of soapy water to kill the fleas.

Flea treatments are available over-the-counter (OTC) or with a veterinary prescription. OTC flea treatments are less expensive but may not be as effective or long-lasting as prescription flea treatments, like Revolution Plus, a monthly topical flea preventative for cats that also protects against other parasites like fleas, ticks, heartworms and intestinal worms.

With so many options for flea treatments for cats, it’s best to work with your veterinarian to select the most appropriate one for your particular kitty. 

However, you must never use flea products formulated strictly for dogs on cats. Some dog flea products contain permethrin, which is toxic to cats. If you have a dog, ask your veterinarian about permethrin-free flea treatments.

How to Get Rid of Fleas in Your Home

It will take diligent work to eliminate the flea eggs, larvae, and pupae lurking inside and outside your home. Here are some strategies:

• Vacuum frequently, focusing on where immature fleas like to hide: bedding, soft furniture, carpeting, and cracks and crevices. Empty the vacuum bag outside your home
• Wash your cat’s bedding and soft furniture, such as pillows, in hot water
• Hire a pest control service to get rid of rodents
• Mow your lawn regularly and get rid of piles of leaves. Fleas love to hide in tall grass and leaf piles

Flea Prevention for Cats

Fleas are a big nuisance, so prevention is key. A year-round flea preventative for your cat and all household pets is the best way to avoid fleas. These come in both topical and oral options to fit the needs of all the animals in your home.

Flea medicine for cats

Also, regularly check your pets’ fur for fleas with a flea comb. If you detect fleas, use the treatment strategies described above.

Continue to vacuum and clean regularly to ensure no flea eggs, larvae, or pupae are in your home.

Keep your cat indoors as much as possible, and check them for fleas whenever they do venture outside or travel with you.

And if you do have a multi-pet household, be sure to use a year-round flea preventative for your dog, too. The most common way for fleas to hitch a ride into your home is on the family dog, which could put your indoor cat at risk for flea infestations.

The post How Do Cats Get Fleas? appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Hepatic lipidosis in cats is one of the most common liver diseases and can be fatal if not treated immediately and aggressively. Fortunately, with early and effective treatment, cats can fully recover from hepatic lipidosis and not relapse.

What is Hepatic Lipidosis?

Hepatic lipidosis in cats is also known as fatty liver syndrome. It is a common feline liver disease caused by the liver being overwhelmed with body fat that is transported to the liver when a cat becomes anorexic.

Causes of Hepatic Lipidosis in Cats

Hepatic lipidosis in cats is usually caused by an underlying medical condition, including those listed below:

• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Pancreatitis
• Kidney disease
• Other liver diseases
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland)

In addition to these medical conditions, several risk factors can make cats more prone to developing hepatic lipidosis. These risk factors include obesity, stress, and a sudden change in diet. Overweight or obese cats are especially susceptible to hepatic lipidosis because of how much extra body fat they have.

The common denominator for these causes and risk factors is anorexia. When a cat stops eating for several days, the body starts using its fat stores for energy because the cat is not getting fat from their diet. The fat moves to the liver to be processed into energy.

Unfortunately, this massive movement of fat to the liver clogs the liver’s cells. The liver cannot process the fat quickly enough and stops functioning well. In severe cases, the liver stops working, leading to liver failure.

Symptoms of Feline Hepatic Lipidosis

Hepatic lipidosis can make a cat seriously ill very quickly. Here are common signs of hepatic lipidosis in cats:

• Pallor
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Muscle wasting
• Clotting problems
• Excessive salivation
• Neck bent downward
• Avoiding the food bowl
• Dramatic, rapid weight loss
• Behavioral changes (social withdrawal, depression)
• Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes, skin, gums)

The presence of jaundice indicates severe disease. A cat with jaundice from hepatic lipidosis could die from the disease and needs immediate and aggressive treatment.

Diagnosing Fatty Liver Disease in Cats

Take your cat to your veterinarian as quickly as you can if your cat has symptoms of hepatic lipidosis.

Your veterinarian will first take a history and perform a physical examination. For the history, share as much detail as possible about your cat’s symptoms and dietary and medication history.

In addition to the history and physical examination, your veterinarian will use bloodwork, abdominal ultrasound, and tissue sampling to diagnose hepatic lipidosis.

The bloodwork will reveal abnormalities that indicate liver disease, such as elevated liver enzymes. The bloodwork may also indicate anemia and abnormal levels of electrolytes like potassium and sodium.

An abdominal ultrasound will show an enlarged liver. On the ultrasound, your veterinarian will also look at other abdominal organs, like the kidney and pancreas, for evidence of underlying disease in these organs.

Tissue sampling, by biopsy or ultrasound-guided fine needle aspirate (FNA), is the best way to definitively diagnose hepatic lipidosis. Performing an FNA involves inserting a long, thin needle into the liver and removing a small piece of tissue. A biopsy would require surgery and may not be possible, depending on a cat’s health status.

Treating Hepatic Lipidosis in Cats

Treatment for hepatic lipidosis in cats must start early to maximize the chance of a full recovery and can last 6 to 12 weeks. There are several treatment goals for this condition. 

Through treatment, veterinarians try to:

• Correct dehydration
• Correct nutritional deficiencies
• Stop fat mobilization to the liver
• Restore normal electrolyte levels

Cats will need to be hospitalized for at least the early part of their treatment. Treatment includes nutritional support, medications, and intravenous fluid therapy. Nutritional support is complex and will be explained in the next section.

Medications are given to reduce symptoms, support liver function, and, if needed, manage the underlying disease that contributed to the hepatic lipidosis.

Depending on a cat’s nutritional deficiencies because of anorexia, injectable nutritional supplements may be given to correct those deficiencies.

Intravenous fluid therapy restores hydration and normal electrolyte levels. It is administered before beginning nutritional support. To prevent overhydration, obese and overweight cats with hepatic lipidosis should be given fluid therapy according to their ideal weight, not their current weight.

Nutritional Support for Cats with Hepatic Lipidosis

Nutritional support is provided to cats with hepatic lipidosis through long-term feeding tubes for several weeks or more. The tube is either an esophagostomy tube (placed directly into the esophagus) or a gastrostomy tube (placed directly into the stomach). For severe cases of hepatic lipidosis, cats may need to be fed intravenously before being fed through a feeding tube.

Affected cats are fed a high-protein, calorie-dense, balanced food. The goal is for cats to take in enough calories to stop fat mobilization. It is crucial to avoid forced feeding by mouth. Forced feeding can lead to food aversion syndrome, complicating and prolonging treatment.

Nutritional support through the feeding tube is gradually increased until a cat takes in their optimal daily caloric intake. Your cat will not stay in the hospital the entire time they are tube fed, so your veterinarian will instruct you on how to do the feedings at home and maintain the tube.

The tube can be removed after a cat can eat enough on their own, by mouth, to maintain their body weight.

The Cost to Treat a Cat for Fatty Liver Disease

The costs for treating fatty liver disease in cats can quickly add up, so be prepared. Here are the typical expenses for treating this condition:

• Medications
• Hospitalization
• Nutritional support
• Feeding tube placement
• Continued monitoring
• Intravenous fluid therapy

The total cost will vary, depending on disease severity and how long your cat needs to be hospitalized.

How to Prevent Hepatic Lipidosis

Hepatic lipidosis in cats is not entirely preventable, but you can reduce your cat’s likelihood of developing the disease. For example, monitor your cat’s weight and work with your veterinarian on a weight loss plan if your cat is overweight or obese.

Also, reduce your cat’s stress and stay on top of managing chronic diseases. Make changes to your cat’s diet gradually and take your cat for regular wellness visits.

The post Hepatic Lipidosis in Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Dog strokes are often massive and quite frightening for pet parents to witness. If your dog has a stroke, they will need immediate veterinary care for the best chance of survival and recovery. Learning how to recognize dog stroke symptoms can help you get help quickly. 

Can Dogs Have Strokes?

Yes, dogs can have strokes.

Although strokes occur in both dogs and people, there are a few differences to be aware of. First, strokes are much less common in dogs than in people. Also, unlike people, dogs cannot tell us when they have mild stroke signs, such as slurred speech or dizziness. By the time a pet parent typically notices dog stroke symptoms, the stroke has progressed and become massive.

Strokes in dogs are either ischemic (blocked blood vessel) or hemorrhagic (ruptured blood vessel), with ischemic being the most common form.

All breeds of dogs can be affected by strokes. However, certain breeds are prone to health conditions that put them at higher risk. For example, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are susceptible to heart disease, a stroke risk factor in dogs.

Strokes affect dogs of all ages. But older dogs have a higher risk because they are more likely to have one or more underlying health conditions that increase the risk of strokes.

Dog Stroke Symptoms

Symptoms of strokes in dogs appear suddenly and are similar whether the stroke is ischemic or hemorrhagic.

A dog’s stroke symptoms depend on several factors: 

1. Region of the brain affected by the stroke
2. Duration of blood and oxygen deprivation
3. Severity of blood and oxygen deprivation

Mild signs of stroke, such as dizziness and memory loss, are usually not apparent, but there are many dog stroke symptoms to watch for. These include:

• Circling
• Seizures
• Head tilt
• Blindness
• Incoordination
• Unconsciousness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Bathroom accidents
• Weakness on one side
• Sudden personality changes
• Unawareness of surroundings/disorientation
• Abnormal eye movement and position

Some of these dog stroke signs are also seen with syncope (fainting) and vestibular disease. Your veterinarian can rule out those other conditions using diagnostic testing.

What Causes Dog Strokes?

A blood clot is the most common cause of strokes in dogs. For hemorrhagic strokes, trauma can cause a blood vessel to rupture and leak blood into the brain.

A blockage in a blood vessel (such as bacteria or a tumor) can also cause a stroke, but in nearly half of stroke cases in dogs, the cause remains unknown.

Various health conditions increase a dog’s risk of having a stroke:

• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Hypothyroidism
• Cushing’s disease
• Bleeding disorders
• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

Diagnosing Dog Strokes

If your dog is having a stroke, take them to your veterinarian right away. The longer your dog’s brain is deprived of oxygen, the worse the prognosis.

Call your veterinarian before you leave the house to let them know you’re on your way. If your dog has a stroke after regular business hours, take them to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital.

After taking a detailed history and conducting a physical exam, your veterinarian will evaluate your dog’s heart to differentiate between a stroke and syncope. A heart evaluation includes an electrocardiogram to analyze heart rhythm, an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) to evaluate blood flow, and a chest X-ray to look at the physical appearance of the heart.

Once your veterinarian has ruled out syncope, they may recommend that your dog have an MRI or computed tomography scan to evaluate brain function and rule out other diseases.

Your veterinarian will also perform basic diagnostic tests, including blood work and a urinalysis. Hormone testing will be recommended if your veterinarian suspects an underlying hormonal condition, such as hypothyroidism.

Although strokes are an emergency in dogs, a proper evaluation is crucial to accurately diagnose a stroke and develop the most appropriate treatment plan.

Dog Stroke Treatment

Early stroke treatment is critical to quickly restore blood flow to the brain and increase the likelihood of a full recovery.

Treatment for strokes in dogs consists of medications and various supportive care measures to manage underlying health conditions and alleviate and resolve symptoms.

Some of these medications may include:

• Blood thinners to break down blood clots
• Hormone therapy to manage hypothyroidism
• Blood pressure medication for hypertension

Other medications may be needed depending on your dog’s underlying health conditions. For example, hypothyroidism would be managed with a thyroid hormone supplement.

Several supportive care options, such as supplemental oxygen to supply oxygen to the brain, are also available. Other supportive care measures include intravenous fluid therapy, physical therapy, and nutritional management.

Surgery is not part of the treatment protocol for strokes in dogs. 

Recovering from a Stroke

Even with early treatment, dogs with a stroke will face a long recovery. The neurologic signs will gradually resolve on their own as blood flow and oxygen are restored to the brain.

However, if the stroke was severe or treatment was delayed, a dog may have permanent brain damage and lingering symptoms. In the worst-case scenario, strokes can be fatal in dogs.

Preventing Dog Strokes

Unfortunately strokes in dogs cannot be prevented. However, you can decrease your dog’s risk of a stroke by staying on top of their health.

Be sure to take your dog to regular wellness visits and follow your veterinarian’s instructions for managing any underlying health conditions. For example, if your dog has diabetes, follow your veterinarian’s prescription instructions for administering insulin. Prioritizing your pup’s health is the best way to encourage general wellness and avoid a stroke.

The post Dog Stroke Symptoms: 12 Signs to Watch For appeared first on Great Pet Care.

And for a good reason. Tetanus in dogs is uncommon because they are relatively resistant to the toxin released by the bacteria that causes the disease. However, even though it’s not common, tetanus can become life threatening in dogs if not detected and treated early.

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of dog tetanus, including symptoms, treatment, and prevention.

What is Tetanus?

Tetanus is a bacterial infection that affects the nervous system. The bacteria that causes tetanus (Clostridium tetani, or C. tetani for short) lives in soil. It can also be found in an animal’s intestinal tract and is shed through the feces. C. tetani is an anaerobe, thriving in environments with little to no oxygen. It is very hardy and can live in these environments for years.

C. tetani enters the body through a puncture wound. The bacteria multiplies within the wound and releases a neurotoxin called tetanospasmin when cells in the wound begin to die. The toxin then attaches to nerve cells that control voluntary movement and blocks the release of inhibitory neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the nervous system).

Without this control, muscles involuntarily spasm and contract. Involuntary muscle movements can be life-threatening when the respiratory muscles spasm, leading to an inability to breathe.

People get tetanus shots to protect themselves from the disease. The first shot is given during childhood. Because tetanus shots do not provide lifelong protection, adults need booster shots to maintain disease protection. 

Can Dogs Get Tetanus?

Yes, dogs can get tetanus, but it is unusual because they are typically resistant to the toxin released by C. tetani. 

There are two forms of tetanus in dogs: localized and generalized. Localized tetanus causes symptoms at the site of the wound. Generalized tetanus occurs when the toxin enters the nerve tract and travels from the wound to the brain and spinal cord. 

If a dog does get tetanus, it is more likely to be localized tetanus. However, it is possible for localized tetanus to progress to generalized tetanus.

How Do Dogs Get Tetanus?

As with people, dogs get tetanus when C. tetani enters the body through a puncture wound. It’s important for pet parents to be aware that the wound does not have to be large in order for tetanus to be present – a minor puncture wound can allow entry of C. tetani. Additionally, while any dog can technically get tetanus, it is most likely to affect young, large-breed dogs.

Symptoms of Tetanus in Dogs

Tetanus symptoms in dogs are due to tetanospasmin’s effects on nerve cells, resulting in involuntary muscle contractions and spasms. The incubation time (i.e. time until symptoms appear) for tetanus in dogs is usually about 5 to 10 days, but it can range from 3 days to several weeks. This timeframe is so long because of dogs’ resistance to tetanospasmin.

Symptoms of both localized and generalized tetanus in dogs include:

Localized Tetanus

• Muscle stiffness near the wound
• Muscle tremors near the wound

Generalized Tetanus

• Lockjaw
• Erect ears
• Wrinkled forehead
• Inability to swallow
• Excessive drooling
• Difficulty breathing
• Stiff head and neck
• Mouth partially open
• Elevated third eyelids
• Stiff and extended tail
• Curled lips (‘sinister smile’)
• Difficulty walking or turning around
• Fever due to heat from constant muscle contraction

It’s also important to note that the muscle spasms associated with tetanus can be severe enough to cause bone fractures.

Diagnosing Tetanus in Dogs

Veterinarians diagnose tetanus according to symptoms. Ideally, the wound can be identified; however, because of the long incubation time of tetanus in dogs, the wound usually heals by the time symptoms appear.

Tests to identify C. tetani are not always reliable, so testing is usually not performed to make the diagnosis. However, a veterinarian may perform diagnostic testing to assess an affected dog’s overall health. This can include bloodwork, urinalysis, chest X-rays, and an electrocardiogram to measure heart rate and rhythm.

Treatment for Tetanus in Dogs

When it comes to treating tetanus in dogs, the earlier treatment is started, the better. The goal is to begin treatment before tetanospasmin has attached to nerve cells. If the wound can be identified, the veterinarian will debride (remove all dead tissue) and clean it.

Beyond wound care, the specific course of treatment depends on disease severity, but several treatments are generally recommended, including: 

Antibiotics The first line of treatment is typically an antibiotic, specifically penicillin. Killing C. tetani prevents the release of tetanospasmin, and improvements from antibiotic treatment are typically seen within the first week.

Other medications. Additional medications to relax the muscles and control spasms may also be used. Because light and noise can trigger muscle spasms, dogs must remain in a dark, quiet room during treatment.

Antitoxin. A tetanus antitoxin is another form of treatment, though it is a controversial option. An antitoxin is a blood product that contains antibodies against tetanospasmin and is derived from the blood of a horse or human. Its role is to prevent attachment of the neurotoxin to nerve cells, so it is effective only during the early stages of the disease.

Unfortunately, this antitoxin can have serious side effects. Because it is a blood product of another species, it may be rejected by a dog’s immune system and cause anaphylactic shock, a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis is more likely with intravenous administration of the antitoxin.

Depending on disease severity, additional supportive care measures may be taken, such as:

• Feeding tube
• Breathing support
• Intravenous fluid therapy
• Soft bedding and regular body rotation to prevent bed sores

Full recovery from tetanus typically takes at least one month. 

How Much Does It Cost to Treat Tetanus in Dogs?

The cost to treat tetanus in dogs varies according to how severe it is. Localized tetanus treatment costs are lower because the dog may not need hospitalization or require intensive care.

Generalized tetanus is much more expensive to treat, given the costs of intensive supportive care, medications, and hospitalization.

How to Prevent Tetanus in Dogs

Although people get tetanus shots in childhood and adulthood, because tetanus is so uncommon in dogs, these shots are not routinely given in the canine community.

The best prevention against tetanus in dogs is prompt and thorough cleaning of puncture wounds and antibiotic treatment. If the cleaning is beyond what you can do yourself, your veterinarian can thoroughly debride and clean the wound, and also prescribe an appropriate antibiotic to administer at home.

The post Tetanus in Dogs appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Keeping the paws healthy is key to a dog’s ability to move about their environment comfortably and easily.

Paw infections are often painful and irritating, making life difficult for dogs. Unfortunately, given the paws’ location, these infections are challenging to treat and may take a long time to heal.

The sooner you recognize their paws are infected, the sooner you can get your dog the veterinary care they need. 

Types of Dog Paw Infections

Generally, infections are caused by microorganisms, such as bacteria, that invade the body and activate the immune system. 

The main types of dog paw infections are:

• Bacterial
• Fungal
• Yeast

Causes of Dog Paw Infections

Dog paw infections occur when the paws’ protective padding is damaged, allowing microorganisms to enter the paw and multiply.

Here are a few ways in which the paw can become damaged and prone to infection:

Trauma. Trauma to the paw can be as tiny as a puncture wound or as large as a long gash. Either way, microorganisms enter that wound and cause a painful infection.

Allergies. Common dog allergies include food, fleas, and environmental. Allergies make a dog’s paws feel incredibly itchy, leading to constant licking and biting at the area. This will eventually damage the paws’ protective covering, allowing bacteria or other microorganisms to enter.

Immune suppression. A dog’s immune system may be suppressed because of treatment, such as for cancer. A suppressed immune system cannot mount a strong immune response to fight off an infection.

Body type. Dogs with skinny legs and thin paw padding, such as Greyhounds, are prone to paw infections.

Dog Paw Infection Symptoms

The symptoms of an infected dog paw are usually quite evident and similar regardless of the underlying cause.

Here are signs of a paw infection to look for:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Visible injury
• Pain in the paw
• Discolored nails
• Foul smell from the paw
• Reluctance to have paws touched
• Greasy or discolored paw discharge
• Difficulty walking or refusal to walk
• Vocalizing when trying to walk
• Constant licking or biting at the paws
• Signs of allergies (e.g., watery eyes, skin rash, itchy skin)

These symptoms range in severity according to the infection’s severity, and knowing the normal appearance of your dog’s paws will help you recognize anything out of the ordinary more quickly. 

Diagnosing Dog Paw Infections

If your dog is showing signs of a paw infection, your veterinarian will need to diagnose the infection and perform a few basic tests to determine the infection’s cause.

Your veterinarian will first take a history from you and conduct a physical exam, paying close attention to your dog’s paws. Tell them your dog’s symptoms and when they first appeared, and if your dog recently suffered a paw injury. Your veterinarian will ask you other questions to get more details from you about the problem.

To look for microorganisms in the paw, your veterinarian also will do a few simple tests, such as a skin scrape and tape impression. For the skin scrape, they’ll gently scrape a thin layer of the paw pad to collect skin cells, then place this scraping on a microscope slide. For a tape impression, your vet will press a piece of tape across the affected paw and place the tape on a microscope slide.

Once analyzed under a microscope, the appearance of the microorganisms will allow your veterinarian to determine whether bacteria, yeast, or fungi caused the infection.

Additional diagnostic testing is needed for severe paw infections. X-rays of your dog’s paw and leg will help your vet determine if the infection has spread beyond the paw. Blood work indicates whether the infection has entered your dog’s bloodstream.

Dog Paw Infection Treatments

Treatment for a paw infection depends on the underlying cause and the infection’s severity and duration. Allow at least a few days for the paw to heal.

Medications to treat dog paw infections include antibiotics and antifungals. They can be applied topically to the paw as an ointment or, for severe infections, given by mouth. Pain medications are given to relieve pain and discomfort.

Infected dog paws must also be cleaned to remove as much dirt, debris, and damaged tissue as possible. After the paw is cleaned, it is bandaged to protect it from further injury, allowing it to heal as fully as possible.

Cleaning and bandaging may be challenging, depending on how well your dog tolerates their infected paw being handled. Your veterinarian will provide at-home instructions for cleaning and bandaging the infected paw, and your dog will wear an e-collar during treatment to keep them from biting and picking at the bandage.

Follow your veterinarian’s treatment instructions to ensure that the infection clears and the paw fully heals. Let them know if you’re having trouble keeping the paw clean and bandaged.

How to Prevent Dog Paw Infections

Dogs love to run and play, so preventing a paw infection may not be easy. However, a few prevention strategies can help make paw infections much less likely for your dog:

Regular grooming. Keep your dog’s nails trimmed. Overgrown nails can curl under and puncture the paw pad.

Paw protection. Put booties on your dog’s paws when your dog goes outside.

Keep an eye on the paws. Inspect your dog’s paws regularly, especially after going outside.

Wash after walks. Clean and dry your dog’s paws after taking a walk or vigorous outdoor play. Dog paw cleaners can make this process easy and efficient. 

Allergy treatment. Manage your dog’s allergies to make the paws feel less itchy.

Prevent pests. Have your dog on year-round flea and tick prevention to avoid itchy bites.

Dog paw infections can be very uncomfortable, but they are treatable and preventable. Taking good care of your dog’s paws will help keep them healthy and infection free.

The post Dog Paw Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments appeared first on Great Pet Care.

But various health problems can lead to your cat pooping blood, which will understandably make you concerned, and perhaps a bit grossed out.

Blood in a cat’s stool is not always an emergency, but it does point to an underlying cause that needs to be diagnosed and treated by your veterinarian.

Blood in Cat Stool: What Does It Look Like?

Looking closely at your cat’s poop is probably not your idea of fun. But being able to describe what the blood in the poop looks like will help your veterinarian determine how the blood got there and how to treat it.

Let’s go through a few things to observe about blood in your cat’s poop.

Color

The color of the blood indicates where the bleeding is occurring in your cat’s gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Dark and tarry blood – called melena – resembles coffee grounds and indicates a problem in the upper GI tract (stomach and small intestine). Melena’s appearance is due to the blood being partially digested.

Bright red, fresh blood – called hematochezia – is a sign of problems in the lower GI tract (colon, rectum, or anus).

Consistency

Clots of blood in the stool resemble clumps of jelly and point to a problem in the lower GI tract.

Volume

The blood may be mixed throughout the stool, present on one end of the stool, or take up almost the entirety of the stool.

Take note of the stool’s appearance as well. Extremely hard stool is a sign of constipation, while loose, watery poop indicates diarrhea.

11 Common Causes of Blood in Cat Poop

The list of causes of blood in cat poop can run a mile long. Here’s a list of the most common causes:

Constipation: Straining to poop can rupture blood vessels around the anus, causing bleeding. Prolonged constipation can damage the colon.

Diarrhea: Diarrhea can irritate the lining of the GI tract as the loose poop passes through, causing bleeding. Long-term diarrhea can lead to severe dehydration and should be treated promptly.

Parasites: Intestinal worms, such as hookworms, can attach to the intestinal lining, leading to bleeding. Intestinal parasites steal nutrients from their host, causing such problems as malnutrition and poor coat condition.

Inflammation: Inflammatory diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease, irritate the GI tract lining, causing bleeding. Although not life-threatening, inflammatory diseases are chronic and require consistent management.

Cancer: Cancerous growths in the GI tract can cause bleeding. Cancers range in severity and aggression.

Polyps: Polyps are benign growths but can still damage the GI tract lining and cause bleeding.

Stress: Stress in cats can cause a condition called stress colitis (inflammation of the colon). An inflamed colon can leak blood into the poop.

Infection: Disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and fungi can cause GI upset and bleeding.

Foreign bodies: A sharp-edged foreign body may lacerate the GI tract lining and cause bleeding after ingestion.

Dietary indiscretion: Cats that sift through the garbage may eat something that causes GI illness and bleeding. Dietary indiscretion can be severe if your cat eats toxic food like garlic.

Rat poison ingestion: Rodenticides contain an anticoagulant and are toxic to cats. A cat that eats rat poison or a rat that ate the poison will be unable to clot blood, leading to significant GI bleeding.

Each of these causes requires veterinary attention. Rat poison ingestion is an emergency and must be treated immediately.

Getting a Diagnosis for Blood in a Cat’s Stool

Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian if your cat has blood in its stool. Your veterinarian will first take a history from you and perform a complete physical examination. 

Be ready to answer questions from your vet, such as those listed below:

• When did you first notice the blood?
• What does the blood in the poop look like?
• What other symptoms is your cat experiencing (e.g., lethargy, vomiting)?
• Has your cat experienced recent stressors (e.g., new pet, baby, recent move)?

Your veterinarian may also perform various diagnostic tests, listed below, to determine the cause of the blood in your cat’s stool.

• Blood work
• Fecal exam
• X-rays
• Abdominal ultrasound

Your vet may also want to perform an endoscopy of the GI tract, for which your cat would be sedated. An endoscope consists of thin tubing and a camera, along with small pinchers to take tissue samples, if necessary. An endoscopy would allow your vet to see evidence of inflammation, cancerous growths or polyps, and foreign bodies.

How to Treat Blood in Cat Poop

Treating blood in cat stool depends on the underlying cause. For example, a deworming medication kills intestinal worms. Constipation can be treated with stool softeners. Inflammatory bowel disease is typically managed with dietary changes to reduce inflammation and irritation in the GI tract.

Surgery may be the best option to remove a foreign body, polyp, or cancerous growth.

Home remedies are generally not recommended to treat blood in cat poop. The only safe and appropriate home remedy is dietary management, which may involve feeding a hypoallergenic diet and adjusting your cat’s fiber intake.

How to Prevent Blood in Your Cat’s Stool

With so many causes of blood in cat poop, prevention is not always possible or practical.

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to reduce the likelihood of blood appearing in your cat’s stool:

Eliminate stress. Reduce your cat’s stress by providing plenty of environmental enrichment, such as toys and cat perches.

Don’t let your cat dumpster dive. Block your cat’s access to rat poison and garbage.

Keep regular veterinary appointments. Take your cat for wellness visits according to your veterinarian’s recommended schedule.

The post Blood in Cat Stool: 11 Common Causes appeared first on Great Pet Care.

A dog’s kidneys work hard to keep the body healthy, carrying out such functions as regulating electrolyte levels and filtering out waste from the blood. A cascade of health issues can develop when the kidneys fail, making dogs quite ill.

Recognizing the signs of kidney failure and knowing what to do next will help you get your dog the help they need when their kidneys stop working.

Kidney Disease Vs. Kidney Failure in Dogs

Let’s first differentiate kidney disease from kidney failure.

You can think of kidney disease and kidney failure as being at different points along the same continuum of kidney problems.

Kidney disease describes a condition when the kidneys aren’t working well but are still functional. The kidneys are designed to have a lot of reserve capacity. Kidney disease usually doesn’t become apparent until approximately 70% of kidney tissue is damaged.

Kidney failure is the end point of kidney disease when the kidneys are no longer functional and there is no reserve capacity to keep the kidneys working.

Types of Kidney Failure in Dogs

Kidney failure in dogs is classified as acute or chronic. 

Acute kidney failure occurs suddenly and is usually due to infection or toxins. Chronic kidney failure occurs gradually and is most commonly due to old age-related deterioration of the kidneys.

14 Signs of Kidney Failure in Dogs

The kidneys’ functions are so widespread that their failure affects the entire body. Body systems affected by kidney failure include the digestive system, urinary tract, and nervous system.

The symptoms of kidney failure in dogs occur suddenly with acute kidney failure and gradually with chronic kidney failure. With chronic kidney failure, the symptoms take so long to develop because the kidneys have had time to compensate for the damaged kidney tissue.

In both cases, a tool like the GreatPetCare app can help pet parents monitor and detect important signs of kidney failure quickly. The Health Journal feature makes it simple to log and share key details about changes to your dog’s health, which can play an important role in early detection and timely treatment.

Here are the symptoms of kidney failure to watch out for, according to body system:

Digestive System Symptoms

The kidneys rid the body of a waste product called urea. With kidney failure, urea accumulates in the blood (‘uremia’), leading to various problems in the gastrointestinal tract.

These GI symptoms include 

• Vomiting, with or without blood
• Diarrhea
• Reduced appetite
• Bad breath
• Mouth ulcers
• Dark, tarry stool
• Bleeding gums

Urinary Tract Symptoms

The kidneys produce urine, which flows from the kidneys, through the ureters, and then to the bladder. With kidney failure, urine production becomes abnormal, leading to either too much or too little urine being produced and subsequent changes in thirst.

You may notice these urinary signs as part of kidney failure:

• Increased or decreased water intake
• Increased or decreased urination

Nervous System Symptoms

When the kidneys can no longer filter out waste from the blood, the accumulation of these waste products in the blood can affect the nervous system.

Nervous system symptoms associated with kidney failure in dogs include:

• Lack of coordination
• Seizures
• Depression

General Symptoms

In addition to the signs listed above relating to the digestive tract, urinary tract, and nervous system, pet parents may notice more general signs including:

• Lethargy
• Significant weight loss

Not all dogs with kidney failure will experience all signs of the disease.

What to Do If You Notice Signs of Dog Kidney Failure

If you do notice signs of kidney failure in dogs, take them to your veterinarian. Your dog will need emergency veterinary care if these symptoms occur suddenly, possibly indicating acute kidney failure.

A detailed history and physical examination, along with diagnostic testing, will help your veterinarian determine what caused your dog’s kidney failure. Diagnostic tests include blood work, urinalysis, imaging (e.g., X-rays, ultrasound), and blood pressure measurement.

Once your veterinarian has identified the underlying cause, you will work with your veterinarian to decide the best path forward for treating and managing your dog’s kidney failure.

Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and whether the kidney failure is acute or chronic.

Acute kidney failure is reversible but requires early and aggressive treatment. If acute kidney failure is not caught early enough, the kidneys may be damaged beyond repair.

Chronic kidney failure is not reversible and requires lifelong management, which can be expensive and challenging.

Consider several factors when deciding on a treatment plan for your dog:

• Your dog’s age and overall health
• Level of care that is required
• Cost of care
• Prognosis

Suppose you decide to move forward with treatment. In that case, your veterinarian will recommend the most appropriate treatment plan to take the burden off your dog’s kidneys, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life.

If you decide not to pursue treatment for your dog, consider discussing end-of-life options with your veterinarian. Euthanasia (humane death) is rarely an easy decision, but your veterinarian can help you understand the process. They can also discuss hospice care to keep your dog comfortable in their final days.

At any point during treatment, you may decide to discontinue if your dog is not responding to the treatment and has a reduced quality of life.

Bringing It Together

Kidney failure is a major illness for dogs, and its treatment and management can be intensive and expensive.

If your dog has kidney failure, work with your veterinarian to help your dog feel better and achieve the best possible quality of life.

The post 14 Signs of Kidney Failure in Dogs appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Deciding to euthanize a dog is difficult for many pet owners. Knowing when to put a dog down is equally challenging.

We’re here to help you learn more about euthanasia and recognize the signs that indicate when saying goodbye may be the best option for your dog.

Dog Euthanasia: A Humane Option

Euthanasia is defined as humane death. It is a painless process that enables a pet’s smooth transition from life to death. For dogs with uncontrollable pain or terminal illnesses, euthanasia is a humane option to end their suffering.

To perform euthanasia, a veterinarian will administer a sedative for relaxation and drowsiness. Then, they will administer an overdose of a barbiturate to cause unconsciousness and stop the heartbeat. After several minutes, the veterinarian will confirm that the dog’s heart has stopped beating. It is a painless and fast procedure that ends a dog’s suffering.

It isn’t easy to contemplate and acknowledge that the end of your dog’s life is near. Understanding how euthanasia works can help you prepare to make end-of-life decisions, knowing that your dog will not suffer in those final moments of life.

There are various details to consider, including the location of euthanasia (vet’s office or at home), whether you choose to be present, and what to do with your dog’s remains. Making these decisions in advance allows you to emotionally prepare for saying goodbye without the stress of making the decisions amid your grief.

When to Put a Dog Down? 8 Signs 

The decision to euthanize a dog is personal. Your veterinarian can provide guidance, given your dog’s health and quality of life, but the ultimate and final decision rests with you. Take the time to think it through and decide when you are ready.

But how do you know when it’s time to put your dog down? Below, we’ve listed some signs that could indicate your dog’s health and quality of life are on the decline. If you notice any of these changes in your pet, it’s helpful to track them with a tool like the GreatPetCare app, so you can discuss them with your veterinarian.

Download the GreatPetCare app for free today to discover helpful tools like the Health Journal, Weight Tracker, and more.

Some changes can be subtle and easy to overlook. The GreatPetCare app makes it easy to log even the slightest changes over time. This can help provide you with a framework to share with your vet so you can decide whether euthanasia is the right choice for your pet.

Here are eight concerning signs to watch out for:

1. Refusal to eat. Some dogs may be picky eaters and refuse to eat from time to time. But if your dog is regularly refusing food and appetite stimulants aren’t working, it may be time to talk to your veterinarian about end of life care. A dog that isn’t eating won’t get the nutrients that they need to sustain a high quality of life. 

2. Terminal illness. A dog that is diagnosed with a terminal illness will progressively go down hill. As the disease advances, your dog may experience pain, confusion, and difficulty doing the things they enjoy. You may want to consider euthanasia following a terminal diagnosis to prevent your dog from suffering. 

3. Inability to walk. A dog that can no longer walk may be experiencing extreme pain and likely isn’t enjoying a high quality of life. While there are ways to help your dog get around – like strollers, carts, and harnesses – it’s important to consider how your dog’s inability to walk is impacting their level of happiness and satisfaction. 

4. Uncontrollable pain. There are various vet-recommended pain medications that can help a dog feel better. But if pain medications don’t seem to be working or your dog always seems to be struggling with pain, it may be time to talk to your veterinarian and prepare for euthanasia. 

5. Life-threatening injury. If an accident or injury has put your dog’s life in the balance, it may be necessary to consider euthanasia as an option to prevent further suffering, complications, or expenses. 

6. Unmanageable aggression. Dogs who are in pain or suffering from canine cognitive dysfunction may experience unexpected behavior changes. If your dog suddenly becomes aggressive to you, family members, or other pets, it could be time to talk to your veterinarian. 

7. Significant decrease in quality of life. It’s difficult to assess your dog’s quality of life. But it’s important to pay attention when considering end of life options for your pet. Lap of Love, a nationwide provider of at-home euthanasia for pets, provides a quality of life assessment that you can fill out to help you monitor your dog’s overall wellbeing. If you no longer think your dog has a high quality of life, it’s important to start discussions about euthanasia with your veterinarian.    

8. Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities. If your dog no longer wants to go for walks, play fetch, cuddle on the sofa, or tug on a toy, it could be a sign that it’s time to let them go. Dogs that no longer show interest in activities they previously enjoyed are often in pain and are not enjoying life like they once did. 

Along with looking for the signs listed above, consider asking yourself these questions when deciding if euthanasia is the right choice for your dog:

• Is my dog suffering?
• Is my dog having more bad days than good days?
• Can I afford my dog’s ongoing medical expenses?
• Can I handle the emotional toll of my dog’s suffering?
• Am I prolonging my dog’s life to avoid having to say goodbye?
• Do I have the time to continue providing the level of care that my pet needs?

When you discuss euthanasia with your veterinarian, they can help you better understand your dog’s declining health. They can also explain the veterinary office’s euthanasia policies, such as whether they do at-home euthanasias and how they schedule euthanasia appointments (usually the last appointment of the day).

Remember, it’s ultimately up to you to decide when it’s the right time to put your dog down and end their suffering. The guidelines above can help you assess your pet and monitor changes over time, but you know your dog best. Whatever you decide to do is the right decision. 

Making Your Dog’s Last Days Count: 4 Tips and Ideas

Once you have decided to euthanize your dog and put the final details in place, you can choose how you want to spend time with your dog in their last days.

As with the decision to euthanize, how you want to spend those final moments with your dog is personal. However, here are some ideas:

Take your dog to their favorite places. Even if your dog is having a hard time getting around, let them enjoy their favorite places one last time. This might be a specific park, the beach, a hiking trail – wherever you and your dog have happy memories. Unplug and enjoy your time together. 

Feed your dog their favorite meals and treats. Although pet parents are usually discouraged from feeding dogs people food due to high calories and fat content, there’s a lot of wiggle room for dogs that are approaching the end of their lives. If you have a week or a few days left, allow your dog to enjoy the foods they love and make their last meal something extra special. 

Spend quiet time with them on the couch or sit with them near their bed. Saying goodbye to your beloved canine companion is one of the hardest things to do. Soak up the quiet moments and let your dog know they are loved by simply being with them. 

Have a professional photo shoot with your dog. While you may have plenty of photos of your dog on your phone, having professional pictures taken of both of you is a great way to memorialize your bond and create a lasting keepsake. Just make sure to have your dog’s comfort in mind when planning a photo shoot. 

Bringing it Together

Saying goodbye to your four-legged friend at the end of their life is a sad yet inevitable reality of dog ownership. Knowing when euthanasia is the right choice for your dog can help you prepare to say goodbye and make the most of your dog’s final days.

The post When to Put a Dog Down: 8 Signs it Might Be Time appeared first on Great Pet Care.

But foxtails could be lurking in that open field, spelling danger for dogs. Foxtails are found just about everywhere and can be troubling for unlucky dogs that pass by them.

What Is a Foxtail?

A foxtail is a weed that grows at the top of grasses and resembles the bushy tail of a fox.

Foxtail goes by many names, including:

• Timothy
• Grass awn
• June grass
• Cheatgrass
• Bristlegrass
• Giant foxtail

This weed has seeds arranged in spiky clusters. The seeds have backward-facing barbs that allow foxtail to burrow into a dog’s skin and other body parts. Without veterinary intervention, burrowed foxtails are impossible to remove entirely.

Foxtails are most prominent in the western United States but can be found throughout most of the country. They make their home along open roadways, hiking trails, meadows, and open fields – all of the places where dogs love to run and play.

Foxtails begin growing in early spring, are in full bloom in early summer, and die in the winter.

Dangers of Foxtails for Dogs

Foxtails and dogs are a bad combination. If a foxtail happens to land on your dog, it won’t be long before the weed starts to burrow, carrying infection-causing environmental debris and bacteria. The burrowing is aided by movement: the more a dog moves, the more deeply the foxtail will burrow.

Because of a foxtail’s shape, the weed will continue burrowing until it can’t burrow any further.

Foxtails will cause problems wherever they land on a dog’s body. For example, a foxtail that burrows into the skin can cause skin infections and abscesses (pockets of bacterial infection). Foxtails that burrow into internal organs can wreak havoc, causing such damage as internal abscesses and intestinal perforation.

Foxtails do not break down in the body. If they are not removed, they will continue to cause problems and put your dog at risk of severe infection.

Can Foxtails Kill a Dog?

Although rare, foxtails can cause life-threatening internal damage. For example, a perforated intestine can put a dog’s life at risk if not treated early and aggressively. 

Foxtails that are inhaled and get lodged in the lungs can cause a respiratory infection that requires immediate life-saving emergency care.

Where You’ll Find Foxtails on a Dog

Foxtails can land anywhere on a dog’s body, but here are the most common body parts where foxtails will land:

• Eyes
• Nose
• Mouth
• Paws
• Ears

Dogs love to explore the environment with their nose, so it is no surprise that foxtails can easily attach to the nose and other parts of the face. In addition, a dog’s paw pads are an easy target for foxtails’ sharp tips.

If you take your dog to an area with lots of foxtails, check the body parts listed above for this weed. Generally, checking your dog from head to toe for foxtails is a good idea.

Signs Your Dog Has a Foxtail

Foxtails will cause symptoms according to the part of the body into which they’ve burrowed.

Nose

• Snorting
• Head shaking
• Pawing at nose
• Violent sneezing

Eyes

• Tearing
• Swelling
• Squinting
• Pawing at eye
• Eyes are swollen shut

Ears

• Head tilt
• Head shaking

Mouth

• Gagging
• Refusal to eat
• Difficulty eating

Paws

• Swelling
• Limping
• Excessive licking or nipping of affected paw

Because foxtails carry debris and bacteria, they cause infection wherever they land and burrow. Here are common signs of infection:

• Bad odor
• Draining tracts
• Abscesses (pockets of bacterial infection)
• Signs of inflammation, including redness and swelling
• Discharge that may be discolored (yellow, green) or bloody

Once infection has set in, a dog will have symptoms of systemic illness, including:

• Lethargy
• Depression
• Reduced appetite

Foxtails that have burrowed into an internal organ can cause enough damage to warrant emergency veterinary care. Symptoms of internal organ damage will vary according to which organ is affected. For example, lung damage can result in severe respiratory distress. Intestinal perforation can cause severe abdominal pain.

What to Do if You Find a Foxtail on Your Dog

Foxtails must be immediately removed from a dog’s body to avoid damage and infection caused by the weed’s burrowing.

Foxtails can be removed at home if they have not yet become embedded or burrowed through the skin. Foxtails in the fur can be removed with a fine-toothed comb or brush. Tweezers help remove foxtails from the skin.

If you can remove the foxtail, gently clean the affected area with mild soap and rinse with water.

If the foxtails have already started burrowing, take your dog to your veterinarian for treatment as soon as possible. Do not try to remove embedded foxtails on your own.

Your veterinarian will have the tools and techniques to remove embedded foxtails. For example, an endoscope (a video camera with small pincers attached) can identify and remove foxtails embedded in the nose. Surgery is recommended for foxtails that have burrowed into an internal organ.

If your veterinarian performs the removal, they will prescribe medications to treat (or prevent) infection and reduce pain and inflammation.

Take your dog to your veterinarian even if you removed foxtails on your own. Your veterinarian will determine if the entire foxtail was removed and complete the removal, if necessary.

How to Prevent Foxtails on Dogs

Because foxtails are just about everywhere, preventing them from landing on your dog can be tricky. Here are a few prevention strategies you can try:

Check your dog after outdoor excursions. Always check your dog’s body for foxtails after being outside, paying close attention to the body parts where foxtails are most likely to attach.

Stay away from foxtail-prone areas. Avoid outdoor areas where foxtails are prevalent, particularly from the spring to early fall.

Keep your yard clean. Mow your lawn and remove weeds regularly.

Trim your dog’s fur in the summer. Keeping your dog’s fury shorter can help you see foxtails more easily. 

Shorten your dog’s leash. Keep your dog on a short leash when walking outside. Do not let your dog go off-leash.

Try protective gear. Put protective gear (e.g., vests, paw covers) on your dog before going to foxtail-prevalent areas.

The post Dangers of Foxtails for Dogs (and How to Remove Them) appeared first on Great Pet Care.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, about 25 percent of dogs will develop cancer.

Many types of cancer affect dogs. These cancers differ in several ways, including aggressiveness, location, symptoms, and prognosis.

Bone cancer in dogs is a common canine cancer. It is aggressive and progresses quickly, so early detection and treatment are crucial to providing a dog with bone cancer an ideal quality of life.

What is Bone Cancer?

Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. Bone cancer is the uncontrolled growth of bone cells responsible for building bone (osteoblasts) and breaking down bone (osteoclasts). In healthy bone, osteoclast and osteoblast activity is tightly regulated. With bone cancer, this tight regulation is lost.

Bone cancer is malignant and very painful. Like other malignant cancers, bone cancer invades nearby tissues and metastasizes (spreads) throughout the body, frequently to the lungs. Bone cancer is unlike benign tumors, which do not invade other tissue or metastasize.

Bone cancer typically affects middle-aged- to older dogs.

Osteosarcoma represents 85 to 95 percent of canine bone cancers. It can affect all breeds, but large and giant breed dogs, such as Rottweilers and Great Danes, are most susceptible.

Osteosarcoma is classified as appendicular (limbs) or axial (skull, ribs, vertebrae, jaw bones). Appendicular osteosarcoma is more common in large and giant breed dogs, while axial osteosarcoma primarily affects small breed dogs.

Causes of Bone Cancer in Dogs

The exact cause of canine bone cancer is unknown. However, genetics play a prominent role in bone cancer development. Breeds that are genetically predisposed to osteosarcoma, for example, include large and giant breed dogs.  

Prior bone trauma caused by fracture, infection, or radiation therapy can also lead to bone cancer.

Other potential contributing factors include rapid growth and gender. Osteosarcoma tends to affect male dogs more than female dogs.

Symptoms of Bone Cancer in Dogs

The signs of bone cancer in dogs can be nonspecific. Also, these signs can depend on the primary cancer’s location. For example, primary bone cancer will have bone-related signs, while a secondary bone cancer will have symptoms related to its original location.

Here are examples of nonspecific signs of bone cancer in dogs:

• Irritability
• Weight loss
• Reduced appetite
• Difficulty sleeping
• Increased vocalization
• Increased heart rate

Bone-related symptoms of bone cancer are listed below:

• Limping
• Lameness
• Limb swelling
• Reluctance to exercise or play

If you notice any of these signs, take your dog to your veterinarian for further examination.

Types of Bone Cancer in Dogs

Bone cancer is either primary (originating in the bone) or secondary (originating elsewhere and spreading to the bone). Osteosarcoma is a primary bone cancer. 

Secondary bone cancers include:

• Chondrosarcoma (cancer of the cartilage)
• Fibrosarcoma (cancer of the fibrous tissue)
• Hemangiosarcoma (cancer of the blood vessels)

Stages and Progression of Bone Cancer in Dogs

Staging in bone cancer helps determine the type of bone cancer and the extent of its spread and provides general health information. A veterinarian uses cancer staging to develop an appropriate treatment plan and determine a prognosis.

Bone cancer staging in dogs follows general cancer staging:

• Stage I: Low-grade tumor with no metastasis
• Stage II: High-grade tumor without metastasis
• Stage III: High-grade tumor with metastasis

Although early detection is always recommended, osteosarcoma is so aggressive that even early detection does not guarantee an improved treatment and survival outcome.

Diagnosing Canine Bone Cancer

Diagnosing bone cancer in dogs involves a history and physical exam, followed by laboratory and imaging tests. For the history, your veterinarian will ask detailed questions about which symptoms your dog has and when those symptoms first appeared.

The physical exam will include an orthopedic exam, which will focus on your dog’s bones and joints. Your vet will pay close attention to areas of pain and swelling.

Laboratory testing, such as bloodwork and biopsy, will provide more information about your dog’s general health and specific information about the bone cancer. Bloodwork provides information about organ function. For example, elevated liver enzymes indicate decreased liver function.

A biopsy is used to definitively diagnose bone cancer. Your veterinarian will sedate your dog to obtain a cancer tissue sample and have the sample analyzed by a veterinary pathologist.

Imaging tests for bone cancer include X-rays, abdominal ultrasounds, and advanced imaging.

X-rays are performed of the affected limb. Examples of X-ray findings that suggest bone cancer are listed below:

• “Moth-eaten” appearance, indicating bony destruction
• “Sunburst” appearance, showing abnormal bone changes
• Pathological fractures (fractures not caused by trauma)
• Soft tissue swelling around the affected bone

X-rays are also taken of the chest to look for lung metastasis. Abdominal ultrasounds can demonstrate abdominal metastasis.

Advanced imaging – computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – provide detailed images of the extent of nearby tissue invasion and distant metastasis.

Bone Cancer Treatment Options for Dogs

The treatment goals for bone cancer are to treat the cancer locally and prevent metastasis. Unfortunately, achieving long-term control is difficult because bone cancer in dogs can be so aggressive.

Several treatment options are available for bone cancer treatment.

Amputation

For appendicular osteosarcoma (affecting the limbs), entire limb amputation is the recommended treatment option. Complete limb amputation not only removes the entire tumor but also provides relief from tumor-related pain.

With axial osteosarcoma, however, surgery may not completely remove the tumor. In these cases, additional treatment would be needed for local tumor control.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is given after amputation to control cancer spread and, ideally, extend survival time. Most dogs tolerate chemotherapy well, experiencing mild side effects (e.g., reduced appetite) that last only a few days. Common chemotherapy drugs for osteosarcoma are doxorubicin and carboplatin.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is a treatment option if amputation is not possible or practical. It can be a palliative treatment to relieve discomfort without providing a cure.

Pain Medication

Pain control is an integral aspect of bone cancer treatment. Pain medication can help improve quality of life while receiving other cancer treatments. Types of pain medication include opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

The Cost to Treat Bone Cancer in Dogs

Bone cancer treatment in dogs can easily cost thousands of dollars. Each type of treatment option will have its own set of expenses. We’ve listed examples of some of the expenses below.

• Amputation: pre-surgical bloodwork, anesthesia, pre- and post-pain medication, post-surgical in-hospital monitoring
• Chemotherapy: cost of medication, administration of the chemotherapy (if given intravenously)
• Radiation therapy: anesthesia, type of radiation therapy performed, number of radiation therapy treatment sessions
• Pain medication: cost of medication

In addition to these costs, there will also be the cost of follow-up visits to take X-rays and perform laboratory testing. Follow-up visits are typically every 2-3 months.

Pet insurance can help defray the high cost of bone cancer treatment. However, pet insurance may not cover pre-existing conditions, so it is best to have an insurance policy in place before the diagnosis.

Prognosis for Bone Cancer in Dogs

Dogs with bone cancer often have a poor prognosis. Even with early detection and treatment, including amputation and chemotherapy, life expectancy is only about one year after diagnosis.

Without treatment, the life expectancy is significantly shorter – about four months.

Because osteosarcoma is so aggressive, it is nearly impossible to prevent metastasis. Most dogs with bone cancer will eventually succumb to lung metastasis.

How to Prevent Bone Cancer in Dogs

It is not possible to prevent bone cancer. If your dog is genetically predisposed to bone cancer, monitor your dog for signs of bone cancer and seek veterinary treatment early.

The post Bone Cancer in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Unhealthy gums can set the stage for periodontal disease, a disease of teeth and teeth-supporting structures. Periodontal disease in dogs is common, affecting approximately 80 percent of dogs by age 3.

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease. It is reversible but can lead to serious dental and systemic health problems if left untreated.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums and occurs at the gingival sulcus, where the gum meets the visible part of the teeth. Unlike other oral health issues that affect multiple parts of the mouth, gingivitis affects only the gums.

Gingivitis can affect any dog, but small breeds are most susceptible to this condition because of their small mouths. In a small mouth, teeth become crowded and misaligned, making it easy for plaque to build up and cause gum problems.

Gingivitis in dogs tends to start early in life, especially in small breeds.

Causes of Gingivitis in Dogs

In many cases, gingivitis is caused by poor dental hygiene. Without good dental hygiene, plaque accumulates on the teeth. Plaque consists of food, bacteria, and saliva. When the plaque is not removed, plaque bacteria travel below the gumline and release enzymes that irritate the gums and cause inflammation.

Unremoved plaque hardens into tartar (also called calculus). Tartar attracts bacteria, spelling even more trouble for the gums.

Factors other than poor hygiene can contribute to gingivitis in dogs:

• Old age
• Diabetes
• Soft food diet
• Autoimmune diseases

Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease, leading to loose and damaged teeth. Also, plaque bacteria can enter the bloodstream and negatively affect the liver, kidneys, and heart.

Symptoms of Gingivitis in Dogs

Early on, gingivitis is subtle and often goes unnoticed. Advanced gingivitis has noticeable symptoms including:

• Red, swollen gums
• Bad breath
• Difficulty eating
• Excessive drooling
• Bleeding gums during teeth brushing
• Excessive plaque and tartar
• Receding gums

Diagnosing Gingivitis in Dogs

Because gingivitis is reversible, it is better to get a diagnosis and begin treatment sooner rather than later.

To diagnose gingivitis, your veterinarian will first perform a physical exam and ask you for a history of the problem. Do your best to describe your dog’s symptoms and when they started. Also, provide details about your dog’s diet, medical history, and at-home dental care routine.

During the physical exam, your veterinarian will take an initial look in your dog’s mouth. However, a thorough oral exam requires anesthesia.

Your veterinarian will also perform blood work and a urinalysis to evaluate your dog’s overall health and determine if there’s an underlying health problem contributing to the gingivitis. For example, blood work may indicate liver and kidney problems, suggesting advanced gingivitis. Glucose in the urine indicates diabetes, which increases the risk of developing gingivitis.

Dental X-rays will show if there’s damage to tooth-supporting structures, such as the jaws, indicating that the gingivitis has progressed to periodontal disease.

When your dog is anesthetized, your veterinarian will examine your dog’s entire mouth. They will look closely at the gums and look for any loose or damaged teeth.

Gingivitis Treatment for Dogs

Gingivitis is treatable with a professional dental cleaning, which will be performed while your dog is still anesthetized from the oral health exam. This cleaning involves several steps. 

First, all plaque and tartar above and below the gumline will be removed. Then, the teeth will be polished to make it harder for plaque bacteria to stick and accumulate. Your veterinarian may also apply fluoride to the teeth to prevent plaque accumulation.

Any loose or damaged teeth will be removed. Rest assured that your dog can adjust to eating with fewer teeth. Removing those teeth will help your dog’s mouth feel more comfortable, making it easier to chew and swallow food. Your veterinarian can advise you on helpful dietary changes after tooth removal.

After the cleaning, your veterinarian may want you to bring your dog in for follow-up appointments to continue monitoring gum health.

Cost to Treat Gingivitis in Dogs

The cost to treat gingivitis in dogs depends on the severity of gingivitis and the presence of underlying health conditions. A professional dental cleaning will cost at least several hundred dollars, and even more if damaged or loose teeth need to be removed. Tooth removal is painful, so pain medications would be an additional cost.

For a dog with an underlying health condition, such as diabetes, treating gingivitis will include the cost of a professional dental cleaning along with the ongoing costs of disease management.

How to Prevent Gingivitis in Dogs

Good dental hygiene is essential to preventing gingivitis in dogs and includes regular at-home dental care and annual professional dental cleanings.

The best time to start a dental care routine is when dogs are puppies. Don’t worry, though, if your dog is older. What is most important is creating and maintaining a routine to keep your dog’s gums as healthy as possible.

The ideal at-home dental care routine is daily toothbrushing with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. However, not all dogs tolerate their teeth being brushed.

If your dog does not tolerate teeth brushing, alternative dental care products are available that promote good dental health. Visit the Veterinary Oral Health Council website to select high-quality dental health products that have been tested and approved to slow the accumulation of plaque and tartar. These approved products will have a VOHC seal on their label.

Alternative dental health products include dental chew treats, water additives, and oral sprays.

Bringing it Together

Gingivitis is a preventable and reversible dental problem in dogs. Do your best to stay on top of your dog’s oral health. If you notice signs of gingivitis, seek treatment early to prevent more serious health problems.

The post Gingivitis in Dogs appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Anything that affects the kidneys could spell bad news for a dog’s health and quality of life.

Kidney disease can make dogs feel lousy and, if acute, be life-threatening if not treated quickly and aggressively.

Though kidney disease affects only about 1 percent of dogs¹, knowing about it can help you get your dog the treatment they need if their kidneys aren’t working well.

What is Kidney Disease in Dogs?

Kidney disease is a broad term describing any dysfunction of the kidneys. It is classified as acute or chronic. Acute kidney disease develops rapidly, while chronic kidney disease (CKD) develops slowly over a few weeks to a few years. Interestingly, acute kidney disease can progress to CKD.

Any age of dog can develop kidney disease. However, CKD is more common in older dogs.

When the kidneys stop working well, waste products normally removed by the kidneys accumulate in the blood. In addition, electrolyte levels become imbalanced, blood pressure increases, and red blood cell production decreases.

What Are the Causes of Kidney Disease in Dogs?

Causes of kidney disease are generally categorized according to whether the kidney disease is acute or chronic.

Acute kidney disease in dogs is commonly caused by ingesting something toxic to the kidneys, such as antifreeze, raisins, grapes, or aspirin. Other causes of acute kidney disease include bacterial infections, severe dehydration, heat stroke, and urinary tract blockage.

CKD in dogs is an old-age change. Kidney cells can wear out as dogs age, leading to decreased kidney function.

Kidney disease can also be an inherited condition. For example, a genetic disorder may cause a dog to be born without one or both kidneys. 

What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Disease in Dogs?

Symptoms of kidney disease in dogs develop rapidly with acute kidney disease and gradually with CKD. 

However, these symptoms aren’t immediately apparent because the kidneys can continue functioning quite well even with significant damage. Symptoms don’t become noticeable until nearly 75 percent of kidney function is compromised.²

Here are the early signs of kidney disease:

• Lethargy
• Depressed mood
• Increased urination
• Increased water consumption

As kidney disease progresses, dogs get sicker and show other symptoms, such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Pale gums
• Bad breath
• Weight loss
• Mouth ulcers
• Incoordination
• Reduced appetite
• Blood in the urine
• Reduced amount of urine or no urine

Diagnosing Kidney Disease in Dogs

Diagnosing kidney disease in dogs is a process. First, your veterinarian will take a detailed history from you and perform a complete physical exam. Provide as much information as possible, including your dog’s symptoms and if your dog ate anything toxic.

Next, your veterinarian will perform blood work and a urinalysis, both of which can provide important clues indicating kidney disease. Blood work findings suggesting kidney disease include increased blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and electrolytes like potassium and sodium. Red and white blood cell levels may also be abnormal with kidney disease.

A urinalysis involves several tests to diagnose kidney disease:

• Urine culture to look for bacteria
• Identification of blood, protein, or both in the urine
• Urine specific gravity to measure urine concentration

Abdominal X-rays and an abdominal ultrasound may also be performed to evaluate the appearance of your dog’s kidneys. 

Because kidney disease affects blood pressure, your veterinarian may also take your dog’s blood pressure.

Your veterinarian will analyze all test results to diagnose and stage your dog’s kidney disease (if your dog has CKD), then develop a personalized treatment plan.

What Are the Stages of Kidney Disease in Dogs?

Kidney disease in dogs, specifically CKD, is classified according to a staging system developed by the International Renal Interest Society (IRIS). IRIS staging, performed after kidney disease is diagnosed, allows veterinarians to determine a specific treatment and monitoring plan according to disease severity.

Blood creatinine and SDMA, defined below, are measured to determine the stage of CKD. The staging system ranges from 1 (least severe) to 4 (most severe). 

• Blood creatinine: Creatinine is a waste product from the muscles. Levels are increased with CKD.
• Blood SDMA: SDMA is an amino acid removed by the kidneys as a waste product. Levels are increased with CKD.

The IRIS staging system also includes substages, which consider blood pressure and the ratio of protein to creatinine in the urine.

Treating and Managing Kidney Disease in Dogs

Treating kidney disease depends on several factors: overall health, type and severity of kidney disease, and underlying cause if present. Early treatment gives dogs with kidney disease the best chance to recover and enjoy a good quality of life. However, treatment will be ineffective if the kidneys are irreparably damaged. 

Let’s go through treatment for acute kidney disease and CKD.

Acute kidney disease treatment

Acute kidney disease can quickly turn into an emergency. It is reversible, but treatment must be early and aggressive to reverse kidney damage.

Intensive care may be needed, which includes intravenous fluid therapy, antibiotic therapy if a bacterial infection is present, and a feeding tube if a dog refuses to eat. Dialysis may also be needed to filter waste from the blood. 

Dogs with acute kidney failure are continuously monitored to ensure they recover and respond well to treatment.

CKD treatment

CKD is not curable, but it is manageable. Treatment for CKD aims to reduce the kidneys’ workload, filter waste from the blood, and return electrolyte levels to normal. Treatment options include specialized diets, dialysis, nutritional supplements, and medications.

There are many medications that a dog with CKD may need. Examples include:

• Erythropoietin to promote red blood cell production
• Blood pressure medicine to reduce blood pressure
• Phosphate binders to remove phosphorus from the blood

At-home fluid therapy, administered subcutaneously (under the skin), may also be needed to ensure your dog stays adequately hydrated. Your veterinarian will let you know how much fluid your dog needs and how often to administer it.

Treatment for CKD is long-term and must be consistent to effectively manage the disease and keep your dog feeling as well as possible.

Whether the kidney disease is acute or chronic, dogs with kidneys that are no longer functioning need a kidney transplant. 

Throughout treatment, follow-up appointments are needed to monitor your dog’s blood work and urine. Your veterinarian will adjust the treatment plan according to your dog’s response to treatment and disease progression.

Cost to Treat Kidney Disease

Costs for kidney disease treatment can quickly add up, especially if your dog needs hospitalization and intensive care. Examples of treatment expenses are listed below:

• Medication
• Fluid therapy 
• Specialized diet
• Kidney transplant
• Nutritional supplements
• Follow-up appointments
• In-hospital monitoring and testing

How to Prevent Kidney Disease in Dogs

Blocking access to kidney-toxic substances is key to preventing acute kidney disease. Be aware that 100 percent prevention of acute kidney disease is not practical.

CKD is not preventable because it is an old-age change. Feeding your dog a healthy diet, staying up-to-date on your dog’s vaccinations, and taking your dog for annual wellness visits will help keep your dog (and your dog’s kidneys) healthy for as long as possible.

Kidney Disease in Dogs Infographic

REFERENCES

1. Foley P; DACVIM (Small Animal Internal Medicine). BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Nephrology and Urology, 2nd ed. Can Vet J. 2008;49(3):291.
2.  Polzin DJ, Ettinger SJ: Chronic Kidney Disease. Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 7th ed. St. Louis, Saunders Elsevier 2010 pp. 1990-2021.

The post Kidney Disease in Dogs appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Yet even with this meticulous grooming, it’s a natural fact of life that cats shed. Shedding gets rid of old hair, allowing room for new hair to come in. But sometimes, cats shed too much, which can signal a potential behavioral or health problem.

If your cat is shedding like crazy and you’re not sure why, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to learn more about shedding in cats and what you can do to manage it.

Do Cats Shed?

Yep, all cats shed. Shedding is normal for cats and is part of the natural life cycle of their hair growth. Without shedding, old hair would pile up on a cat’s coat, increasing the risk of painful mats that are difficult to remove.

Several factors influence cat shedding:

• Breed
• Season 
• Overall health
• Coat characteristics (long hair, short hair)
• Living environment (indoor vs. outdoor)
• Stress

Cat breeds that shed a lot include long-haired breeds, such as the Maine Coon and Persian. Russian Blue and American Shorthair cats also shed a lot of hair.

And if you’re wondering if cats shed as much as dogs, the answer is that it depends. The factors that influence cat shedding also influence dog shedding. So, depending on the circumstances, some cats may shed more than dogs, while some dogs may shed more than cats.

Do Kittens Shed?

Despite their tiny size, kittens shed as well. However, the shedding will be minimal until they mature into adults. At that time, a kitten sheds its soft kitten coat for their adult coat.

Understanding Cat Shedding Season

A cat’s living environment plays a role in when shedding occurs. An indoor cat will shed throughout the year because they are not exposed to the normal fluctuations in seasonal temperatures.  

On the other hand, outdoor cats shed twice a year: in the spring and fall. Shedding in the spring removes the thick winter coat to prepare for warmer temperatures. Shedding in the fall removes the lighter spring coat to make room for the heavier winter coat.

Why is My Cat Shedding So Much?

Although all cats shed, excessing shedding may indicate an underlying health or behavioral problem. If you’ve noticed that your cat is shedding more than usual, take them to your veterinarian for an examination. 

A history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests (e.g., bloodwork) will help your veterinarian determine the cause of your cat’s excessive shedding. 

Here are some reasons why cats may experience excessive shedding:

Allergies

Cats can develop skin, food, and environmental allergies that cause skin itchiness. Scratching the skin damages the hair and causes it to fall out more than usual. 

Skin Infection

Bacterial or fungal skin infections can also make the skin feel itchy and cause abnormalities, such as rashes. Skin infections can eventually lead to excessive shedding.

Metabolic Disease

Hyperthyroidism and kidney disease can disrupt the body’s normal metabolism, including the hair’s lifecycle, causing an increase in shedding. 

External Parasites

Fleas are usually more problematic in dogs than cats. However, cats can get fleas. A flea infestation can cause intense itching and scratching, leading to more shedding than normal. Mites can also cause cats to shed.

Stress

Cats can also shed more in stressful situations, such as moving or fighting for resources with another cat. This stress may cause a condition called ‘psychogenic alopecia,’ which occurs when a cat overgrooms in response to stress.

Poor Diet

A high-quality diet that is nutritionally complete and balanced promotes a healthy coat. On the flip side, a poor diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies, resulting in an unhealthy coat and shedding.

Old Age

Older cats sometimes struggle to groom themselves, which can result in matted fur and increased shedding. 

How to Stop Cat Shedding

Because shedding is normal in cats, you won’t be able to fully stop your cat from shedding. The best you can do is minimize it.

Minimizing shedding is important because a cat that sheds excessively may ingest a lot of hair, raising the risk of intestinal blockage from a big hairball.

After your veterinarian has determined why your cat is shedding so much, they can help you devise a plan to decrease it. Here are some potential strategies:

Treat health issues. Treating or managing your cat’s underlying health issues can help get their shedding under control. For example, kidney disease can be managed with medication and dietary changes, and a year-round flea preventative would avoid an itchy flea infestation.

Reduce stress. Removing stressors in your cat’s environment will reduce their stress. Environmental enrichment (toys, scratchers, cat trees, etc.), interactive playtime, and plenty of resources for a multi-cat household are great ways to reduce stress.

 Improve your cat’s diet. A high-quality cat food with appropriate amounts of meat-based protein and healthy fat can improve coat quality and reduce shedding. Ask your veterinarian for diet recommendations if you’re unsure which diet would be best for your cat. 

In addition to these strategies, daily grooming can minimize shedding and promote a healthy coat. There are many cat grooming tools available, such as deshedding gloves, to help keep your cat’s coat in great shape. Consider talking with your veterinarian or a local groomer if you need guidance on selecting the right grooming tools for your cat. 

Cat Shedding FAQs

To recap and help you understand the ins and outs of cat shedding, we’ve rounded up some of the most frequently asked questions on the subject.

Do all cats shed? 

Yes. Shedding is a normal occurrence in cats to get rid of old hair and replace it with new, healthy hair.

When do cats shed the most? 

It depends. Indoor cats shed year-round. Outdoor cats shed the most in the spring (to get rid of their winter coat) and the fall (to make room for their winter coat).

Do long-haired cats shed more? 

Long-haired breeds, such as the Maine Coon and Persian, shed more than short-haired breeds. However, the American Shorthair can shed quite a bit.

Do cats shed more than dogs? 

Not necessarily. A long-haired cat may shed more than a short-haired dog. But a long-haired dog like the Golden Retriever will shed much more than a cat.

Do cats shed more when stressed? 

Yes, stress can cause increased shedding in cats and result in ‘psychogenic alopecia,’ which is hair loss due to excessive grooming as an attempt to relieve stress.

How to Reduce Cat Hair in Your Home

Your cat’s shedding doesn’t have to be a nuisance for you. There are several ways in which you can reduce cat hair in your home without going to extreme measures.

Vacuum. A vacuum designed to clean up pet hair will help you keep your home from being overrun with cat hair. Follow the vacuum’s care and maintenance instructions to ensure that it remains effective at picking up the hair.

Remove cat hair from upholstery and clothing. Cat hair tends to end up everywhere. Using a brush designed to pick up cat hair, or even a simple roll of lint remover sheets, can get rid of hair from upholstery. You can use similar methods to help get cat hair off of clothing. 

Sweep up cat hair. A regular broom isn’t necessarily the best choice for sweeping up your cat’s hair. Consider using a wet mop or a dry mop designed specifically to remove pet hair.

Dust regularly. Dusting helps remove cat hair from surfaces such as coffee tables, desks, and kitchen counters.

Putting it All Together

Cat shedding is a fact of life for both cats and their owners, and knowing your cat’s normal shedding behavior can help you recognize when it’s happening more than usual. In talking to your veterinarian, you can figure out why and plan the best course of action to get things back on track.

The post Why Is My Cat Shedding So Much? appeared first on Great Pet Care.

But why do cats hate water? And what can you do if your cat dislikes getting wet but needs a bath? We answer these questions and more information about felines and water below. 

Do All Cats Hate Water?

Most typical domesticated cats hate getting wet, but there is some nuance. Being submerged in water could be a cat’s worst nightmare, but playing with a stream of running water from a faucet is perfectly suitable for many cats.

Interestingly, several cat breeds actually like the water and even enjoy swimming (yes, cats can swim!). Here’s a list of cat breeds that don’t mind getting in the water:

• Bengal
• Bobtail
• Abyssinian
• Maine Coon
• Turkish Van
• Turkish Angora
• Norwegian Forest Cat
• American Shorthair

These breeds have water-resistant coats, making it easy to spend time in the water without getting soaked. 

Why Do Cats Hate Water?

There are various reasons why cats hate water:

Evolution

Cats’ wild ancestors lived in dry, arid environments and thus had little contact with water. Fortunately, these wild ancestors got enough hydration from eating their prey, so being far away from a water source was not a big problem. 

Over the lengthy timeline of cats’ evolution, cats have not changed much regarding their relationship with water. Today’s domesticated cats have very little evolutional pull to get in the water.

Lack of Familiarity

Because cats don’t have a strong need or desire to get in the water, they’re generally not familiar or comfortable with it. Some cats could even be afraid of water. Also, since cats are meticulous groomers, they can keep themselves clean without needing a bath.

The best time to get a cat familiar with water is during the socialization window of kittenhood—between about 3 to 16 weeks of age. If kittens are exposed to water and have positive experiences with it during that time frame, they’ll be familiar and comfortable with water and might not mind a bath or dip in the kiddie pool.

Lack of Control

When a cat dips their paw in a stream of running water, they fully control the situation and their interaction with water. Being fully submerged in a tub of water is another matter, with the cat no longer being in control. 

Discomfort 

A wet cat is generally an unhappy cat. A cat’s grooming process distributes healthy oils through the skin and coat. However, oil and water do not mix. If a cat gets completely wet from a bath (or gets stuck in the rain), it will get soaked down to its skin.

Being completely soaked weighs down a cat, making them less agile. In addition, a drenched coat will take hours to fully dry, leaving a cat uncomfortably wet and cold for a long time.

Punishment

Cat owners will sometimes use a squirt bottle to deter or punish bad behavior in cats. For example, a cat that jumps up on the kitchen counter may get a squirt of water to the face as punishment. This type of punishment creates a negative association with water, increasing the likelihood of a cat hating, or possibly fearing, water.

Aversion to Scents

Cats can smell 14 times better than a person can. So, what may smell like a lovely scented shampoo or conditioner may be overkill for your cat, making them not want to take a bath.

Cats can also detect chemical scents in tap water, but there are varied opinions about whether these scents are off-putting for cats.

What to Do if Your Cat Hates Water

Having a cat that hates water does not need to be a source of great concern. Providing your cat with a comfortable and controllable level of water exposure may be all you need to do to keep your cat happy.

If you have a young kitten, consider gradually exposing them to water when they are 3 to 16 weeks old (you can follow the steps below for bathing a cat). Your kitten may not fall in love with water, but at least they will be comfortable in it if they ever need a bath.

How to Bathe a Cat Who Hates Water

Certain situations may make it necessary to bathe a cat. For example, arthritis or serious illness can make it difficult for cats to groom and keep themselves clean. 

But how do you bathe a cat that hates water? The key is to acclimate your cat to bathing and make bathing enjoyable. Let’s break down how to do this:

Acclimate your cat. Baths aren’t an emergency for cats, so take plenty of time to get your cat used to bath time. 

First, place some of your cat’s favorite toys into an empty tub. You can even spread a tasty treat like anchovy paste on the bottom of the tub so your cat can lick it (clean your tub first).

After your cat is acclimated to being in an empty tub, add an inch or two of warm water and place your cat’s toys in the water. Give your cat lots of verbal praise as they play in the water.

Create a comfortable bath environment. Bath time should be pleasant for your cat and you. Gather all of your supplies, including a fluffy towel, cat-specific shampoo and conditioner, and a non-slip tub mat. You’ll also need special treats and toys. Keep the room quiet so your cat can feel more relaxed.

Bathe gently. Depending on your cat’s temperament, you may want to have someone gently hold your cat and keep them calm. Minimal restraint is ideal when bathing a cat.

Bathe your cat gently with the shampoo and conditioner, carefully avoiding the face. Consider using a warm washcloth to wipe and rinse your cat’s face. Encourage your cat with verbal praise.

Dry off your cat. After the bath, wrap your cat immediately in a warm towel and dry them off. Your cat will need some extra time to dry off fully, but the towel will remove most of the wetness. Give your cat lots of verbal praise and offer them a treat as a tasty reward.

In Conclusion

Cats aren’t big fans of water, but that’s not necessarily bad. Find fun ways for your cat to interact with water. If your cat does need a bath, make it a pleasant experience for both of you.

The post Why Do Cats Hate Water? appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Untreated pain, though, will eventually take a noticeable toll on a cat’s health and well-being.

Keep reading to learn more about identifying when your cat is in pain and doing what you can to relieve your cat’s discomfort. Trust us — your cat will thank you!

How to Tell if a Cat Is in Pain

In the wild, showing signs of pain makes a cat vulnerable. Domesticated cats have not lost that tendency to hide their pain. Fortunately, cats give clues, sometimes subtle, that indicate they’re in pain. Here’s what to look for:

Behavioral Changes

• Decreased energy
• Bathroom accidents
• Increased vocalizations
• Eating and drinking less
• Social isolation/withdrawal
• Changes in sleeping and grooming habits
• Increased aggression, especially if touched in painful spots

Physical or Postural Signs

• Hunched posture
• Front paws folded under
• Legs tucked underneath the body

Facial Expressions

• Grimacing
• Flattened ears
• Enlarged pupils

Because these clues can be subtle, knowing your cat’s normal behavior, routines, and physical appearance will help you recognize when something is a little off with your cat. Also, be aware that some of these clues, such as eating and drinking less, are not specific to pain. 

If you do notice any of these clues, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have your cat’s pain evaluated.

Diagnosing Cat Pain

Cats don’t just hide their pain around their owners. The veterinary office can be scary for cats, causing them to go into ‘fight, flight, or freeze’ mode and hide their pain even more.

Therefore, your veterinarian will need detailed information from you about your cat’s pain, such as what signs of pain you noticed and when.

Your veterinarian will conduct a complete physical exam, paying particular attention to signs of pain. One particularly helpful tool veterinarians use to assess cat pain is the Feline Grimace Scale.

Once your veterinarian determines why your cat is in pain, they will recommend a pain management plan.

What Can I Give My Cat for Pain?

We’ll say this first: Do not give your cat any pain medicine before seeing your veterinarian and learning why your cat is in pain. Certain human pain medicines can be toxic to cats, so you should not give your cat any pain medicine without your veterinarian’s approval and supervision.

Veterinary-Prescribed Pain Relief for Cats

Prescription pain medications are often the go-to method to provide pain relief for cats. Several categories of pain medications are available for cats. These include:

Opioids: Opioids, such as buprenorphine and the fentanyl skin patch, are prescribed for moderate to severe pain in cats. They can be given for a few days or long-term to manage chronic pain. 

Steroids: Steroids, such as prednisone, reduce inflammation and pain. Because steroids can produce adverse side effects like diabetes and delayed healing, they are given for only a short period.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs, such as meloxicam, are effective for treating mild to moderate pain. However, NSAIDs increase the risks of gastrointestinal bleeding and liver and kidney damage. Veterinarians use extreme caution when prescribing NSAIDs for cat pain.

In addition to these drug categories, other prescription pain medications for cats include gabapentin and maropitant.

Other Pain Management Methods for Cats

There are also non-prescription methods for managing pain in cats. 

For example, joint supplements for cats that contain chondroitin and glucosamine can relieve arthritis-related pain by supporting joint health. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements decrease inflammation and can also help relieve pain from arthritis.

CBD has become increasingly popular in veterinary medicine. Although studies have reported CBD’s ability to relieve osteoarthritis-related pain in dogs, CBD has not yet been extensively studied in cats. Thus, we cannot recommend CBD supplementation as a pain relief method for cats. 

Therapies such as acupuncture (yes, cats can have acupuncture!), physical therapy, and massage are all effective at relieving a cat’s pain. They can be used as complements to prescription pain medications to make your cat even more comfortable.

In addition to these non-prescription therapies, you can also make your cat’s physical environment more comfortable:

Keep your cat’s essentials close. Move your cat’s food bowl, water bowl, and litter box closer to your cat’s sleeping area. Keeping these items closer to your cat will make it easier for your cat to eat, drink, and go to the bathroom.

Try an orthopedic bed. Provide your cat with an orthopedic bed if they have arthritis. Orthopedic pet beds provide extra cushioning at common pain points, like the hips.

Reduce slippery surfaces. Use more rugs. Rugs will give your cat more traction as they walk, unlike a slippery floor. 

Can Cats Have Tylenol, Advil, or Other NSAIDs for Pain?

The short answer is no. Over-the-counter (OTC) human pain relievers are toxic and fatal to cats. Under no circumstance should you give your cat an OTC pain medicine. 

Three Ways to Prevent Pain in Cats

With cats living longer, it is more likely that they will experience painful health challenges in their golden years. These health challenges are not always preventable.

Although you may not be able to prevent all pain for your cat, there are some things you can do to keep your cat as healthy, happy, and pain-free as you can:

Keep your cat at a healthy weight. Excess weight puts extra, painful pressure on the joints. A proper diet and daily physical activity will help keep your cat at their ideal weight.

Take your cat for wellness exams. Wellness exams help your veterinarian detect potential health problems that could cause your cat pain and discomfort. The earlier an illness is detected, the earlier it can be treated.

Keep your cat indoors. The outdoors includes risks for your cat, such as cars, wildlife, and feral cats. Your home will protect your cat from outdoor dangers that could result in injury and pain.

Cats are master disguisers of pain, but they still need our help in relieving that pain. Pay close attention to your cat and take them to the vet if they start to show any signs of pain.

The post What Can You Give a Cat for Pain? appeared first on Great Pet Care.

To ease your worries, let’s go through what you need to know about nosebleeds in dogs, including what causes them and what you can do if your dog’s nose starts to bleed.

Do Dogs Get Nosebleeds?

Yes, dogs get nosebleeds. Dog nosebleeds are relatively common and can affect dogs of any breed and age. That being said, some causes of nosebleeds may be more common in younger than older dogs or certain breeds.

Nosebleeds in dogs can be unilateral (one nostril) or bilateral (both nostrils).

Causes of Dog Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds in dogs have many causes, ranging from minor to serious. Some of these causes include:

Trauma: This is one of the most common causes of dog nosebleeds. This trauma can be due to fights with other dogs or accidentally running into something sharp, like the edge of a door or cabinet.

Infections or tumors: Other common causes of nosebleeds are chronic nasal infections and nasal tumors. Chronic nasal infections can inflame nostrils, leading to bleeding. Similarly, nasal tumors can damage the delicate lining of the nostrils, causing inflammation and bleeding.

Foreign objects: Dogs that love to snoop on the ground—particularly young dogs—are prone to getting foreign objects (like grass or sticks) stuck in their nose.

Autoimmune diseases: In older dogs, autoimmune disease (the immune system attacks itself) can sometimes cause nosebleeds by triggering nasal inflammation.

Coagulation disorders: These disorders cause abnormal clotting and can lead to bleeding from both nostrils. Von Willebrand’s Disease is a genetic clotting disorder that affects certain breeds, such as Dobermans and German Shepherds.

Other causes of nosebleeds in dogs are listed below:

• Liver failure
• Dental disease
• High blood pressure
• Ingestion of rodenticides
• Fungal infection (Aspergillosis)
• Medications (e.g., chemotherapy)
• Ingestion of human nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Tick-borne disease (Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichiosis)

Other Dog Nosebleed Symptoms to Watch For

Blood streaming from your dog’s nose indicates a nosebleed. However, depending on what’s causing the nosebleed, your dog may have some other symptoms.

For example, if your dog has grass stuck in his nose, he will probably be pawing at his nose, trying to get it out. Your dog may also sneeze blood because of the constant irritation in his nostrils.

Dental disease can cause such symptoms as excessive drooling, difficulty eating, or even refusal to eat.

With trauma, you may see bruises or scratches on your dog’s head and around the muzzle.

Nosebleeds often cause dogs to swallow a lot of blood, which can make a dog vomit blood or have bloody stool. If you see bloody vomit or stools with the nosebleed, they are likely due to the nosebleed and are not an actual digestive issue.

Rodenticide poisoning in dogs is life-threatening and needs immediate veterinary attention. Other symptoms of rodenticide poisoning, besides a nosebleed, include difficulty breathing, pale gums, bloody poop, and an enlarged abdomen.

If your dog is showing signs of systemic illness, such as lethargy or reduced appetite, or is having difficulty breathing, take your dog to your veterinarian as soon as possible. In these cases, the nosebleed indicates a more serious disease that needs prompt veterinary care.

Diagnosing the Cause of a Dog Nosebleed

A nosebleed is visually apparent, but identifying the cause of the nosebleed can take time.

A thorough history is the first step in diagnosing a nosebleed. Be prepared to answer numerous questions, such as those listed below, from your veterinarian about your dog’s bleeding nose. 

• Is your dog sneezing blood?
• Has your dog ingested rodenticide?
• Does your dog play rough with other pets?
• Have you noticed anything stuck in your dog’s nose?
• Is the bleeding coming from one nostril or both nostrils?
• Is this your dog’s first nosebleed, or does he have a history of nosebleeds?
• What medications is your dog currently taking? Has your dog accidentally ingested any medications?
• What other symptoms have you noticed, such as black or tarry stool, coffee-ground vomit, and bruising?

Your veterinarian will also conduct a physical exam. Here are a few things they will be looking for:

• Gum color
• Eye protrusion
• Nasal swelling
• Facial asymmetry
• Elevated third eyelid
• Bruising, darkened areas of skin
• Foreign object stuck in the nose
• Indications of dental disease (e.g., bad breath, inflamed gums)

According to the history and physical examination findings, your veterinarian will then perform a series of diagnostic tests, including those listed below:

• Routine bloodwork 
• Urinalysis
• X-rays
• Clotting tests
• Fungal cultures
• Blood pressure
• Nasal swab

Some diagnostic tests, including an oral exam and dental and nasal X-rays, require that a dog be anesthetized. If your veterinarian suspects a nasal tumor, your veterinarian will anesthetize your dog to get a tumor biopsy. 

How to Treat a Dog Nosebleed 

Treatment for a dog nosebleed is according to the underlying cause. Some nosebleeds can be treated at home with simple first aid, while others require veterinary treatment to address the nosebleed’s underlying cause.

If your dog’s nosebleed is minor and doesn’t need veterinary care, you can treat it at home with a few simple steps:

Keep yourself and your dog calm. Your dog probably isn’t bothered by the nosebleed, but you might be. Your dog will feel your anxiety and get worked up, raising his blood pressure and worsening the nosebleed. Stay calm so that your dog will also stay calm.

Apply an ice pack to the nose. The ice pack will constrict the blood vessels to stop the bleeding. For smoosh-faced dogs like Pugs, keep the nostrils uncovered to allow for easy breathing. 

Contact your veterinarian. After the bleeding has stopped, contact your vet for further instructions. Do not give your dog any medications unless your vet advises you to do so. Also, do not stick absorbent material, such as a cotton swab, into your dog’s nose; this will cause your dog to sneeze, making the bleeding worse.

Seek veterinary care if your dog has sustained an injury, has something stuck in his nose, has difficulty breathing, or is showing signs of systemic illness. 

How to Prevent Nosebleeds in Dogs

Not every cause of nosebleeds in dogs can be prevented. Preventable causes of nosebleeds include ingestion of toxins, bumping into sharp objects, and ingestion of human medication. 

Here are a few strategies for avoiding nosebleeds from preventable causes:

• Apply corner cushions to sharp furniture edges. 
• Keep rodenticide safely locked away and hidden from your dog.
• Store all of your medications in a locked cabinet, preferably high up.
• Remove anything from your dog’s outdoor walking path, such as grass shavings, that could get stuck in your dog’s nose.

Other causes of nosebleeds in dogs, such as cancer and Von Willebrand’s disease, cannot be prevented. 

Nosebleeds in dogs can be unsettling. Stay calm, perform first aid for minor nosebleeds, monitor your dog closely for other symptoms, and take your dog to your veterinarian if your dog does not look well.

The post Dog Nosebleeds: Causes and What to Do appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Although Lyme disease can affect dogs and cats, it is much more common in dogs than cats. Lyme disease in cats has been observed only in a laboratory setting and not in the natural environment. 

If you’re wondering if a cat can get Lyme disease, the short answer is: yes, but it is unlikely. Although Lyme disease is exceedingly rare in cats, it’s still worth learning more about this tick-borne disease.

Can Cats Get Lyme Disease?

Cats can get Lyme disease, but the chances of a cat—indoor or feral—being affected by the disease are close to zero.

Lyme disease is transmitted by the deer tick (Ixodes scapularis or Ixodes pacificus), typically in the spring and fall. Nymphs (baby ticks) and adult female deer ticks are the primary spreaders of the disease.

Deer ticks become infected when they feed off of wildlife infected with B. burgdorferi. The bacteria enters the tick’s body during a feeding.

Ticks like to perch on stalks of grass. Rather than jump onto their hosts, ticks wait until an unwitting host walks by. The tick then crawls onto the host’s skin.

Theoretically, if a deer tick landed on a cat, it would start feeding and transmit B. burgdorferi through its saliva onto the cat’s skin. This transmission process would take about 24 to 48 hours. The bacteria would replicate on the skin, then move into the cat’s tissues, including the joints and nervous system, where it would stay hidden from the immune system.

Even for strictly indoor cats, a deer tick could find its way inside by hitching a ride on a person or dog who’s just been outside. That deer tick could eventually crawl onto the cat’s skin.

However, cats’ fastidious grooming habits work in their favor regarding Lyme disease. Even if a deer tick did land on your cat, your cat’s grooming would probably remove the tick before it began transmitting the bacteria.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Cats

Cats with Lyme disease are frequently asymptomatic. If a cat does have clinical signs, these signs will be similar to those seen in dogs with Lyme disease:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty breathing
• Shifting leg lameness (shifting from one leg to the other because of pain) 

Severe Lyme disease can damage the kidneys and cause symptoms like vomiting, limb swelling, and weight loss.

A telltale sign of Lyme disease in people is a ‘bull’s eye’ rash at the bite site, but cats and dogs rarely develop this rash.

Symptoms of Lyme disease in cats don’t show up until several weeks after the tick bite. If a deer tick has bitten your cat, and the tick stayed on long enough to transmit B. burgdorferi, you would have to wait for at least several weeks to see any signs of the disease.

Ticks on Cats: What to Do

Check your cat’s skin regularly for ticks, especially if your cat spends any amount of time outside. Promptly remove any tick you see to minimize the chances of disease transmission. Here are the steps to safely remove a tick from a cat:

Step 1: Gather tick-removing supplies: rubbing alcohol, a glass jar, a pair of disposable gloves, a pair of tweezers, and triple-antibiotic ointment.

Step 2: Pour rubbing alcohol into the jar and clean the tweezers with some rubbing alcohol.

Step 3: Put on a pair of gloves.

Step 4: Pull back your cat’s fur as much as possible to get a good view of the tick.

Step 5: Use the tweezers to grasp the tick’s head. Do not squeeze or twist! 

Step 6: Firmly pull up and remove the tick from your cat’s skin. 

Step 7: Place the tick in the jar of rubbing alcohol to kill it.

Step 8: Throw away your gloves and wash your hands.

Step 9: Wash the bite site with pet-safe soap and water and then monitor for signs of infection.

Contact your veterinarian after you have removed the tick. Your veterinarian may advise you to submit the tick to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory for additional testing to determine the diseases the tick carries.

Although signs of Lyme disease take weeks to appear after a tick bite, continue monitoring your cat after removing the tick. Contact your veterinarian if your cat shows any signs of Lyme disease.

Diagnosing Lyme Disease in Cats

Veterinarians diagnose Lyme disease in cats by knowing a cat’s history of tick exposure, performing basic laboratory tests (blood work, urinalysis, X-rays), and ruling out other diseases that could be causing Lyme disease-related symptoms. Veterinarians may also test a sample of joint fluid for B. burgdorferi.

A blood test is available that detects Lyme disease. However, a positive test result would not show up until several weeks after the tick bite.

If you submitted the tick for testing, those results would help determine whether your cat has Lyme disease.

Treatment for Lyme Disease in Cats

Lyme disease in cats is treated with the antibiotic doxycycline, which works quickly and is very effective against the disease. When treated early, cats with Lyme disease have a good prognosis. 

Lyme disease that is not treated early or left untreated can cause permanent tissue damage, so early treatment provides the best chance of recovery.

Medications to Treat Lyme Disease in Cats

Doxycycline is typically given for a 30-day treatment course. Although this antibiotic is effective, it does have some drawbacks. For example, not all cats can tolerate doxycycline. Also, because B. burgdorferi likes to hide inside the tissues, multiple rounds of doxycycline may be needed to clear the body of the bacteria.

Doxycycline tablets can cause esophageal strictures that narrow the esophagus and make swallowing difficult. Veterinarians often prescribe liquid doxycycline to avoid this problem. 

Pain medication is recommended if a cat has joint pain. 

If a cat has severe Lyme disease, additional medications, such as intravenous fluid therapy and kidney medications, may be needed.

Cost to Treat Lyme Disease in Cats

Diagnosing and treating Lyme disease has varied costs. It may cost several hundred dollars to complete the diagnostic testing for the disease, especially if the tick is submitted for testing at a veterinary diagnostic laboratory.

The cost of medications varies, but doxycycline and common pain medications are usually not very expensive. Treatment costs can jump significantly for cats that require hospitalization because of severe Lyme disease.

Your veterinarian will determine the exact costs of treating your cat.

Preventing Lyme Disease in Cats

Monthly tick prevention is the best way to prevent Lyme disease in cats. A monthly topical tick preventative, given every month throughout the year, will provide the best tick prevention for your cat. Remember that tick prevention is still important for indoor cats.

Other prevention strategies include checking your cat’s skin for ticks regularly (and removing any ticks that you see) and keeping your grass trimmed. Of course, keeping your cat indoors as much as possible will minimize the chances of a tick crawling onto your cat.

Lyme Disease in Cats: Bringing It Together

Because Lyme disease is so rare in cats, this disease is not something that needs to be high on your list of concerns as a cat owner. However, ticks do carry other diseases that are much more likely to pass to cats, such as cytauxzoonosis. Remain diligent about practicing tick prevention strategies and contact your veterinarian if your cat has been bitten by a tick and shows signs of illness.

The post Can Cats Get Lyme Disease? appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Unfortunately, like humans these eyes can get infected. Cat eye infections are often uncomfortable and painful. They need a quick diagnosis to restore good eye health and prevent more serious problems.

What is a Cat Eye Infection?

A cat eye infection is an eye problem caused by infectious agents, such as viruses and bacteria. It can affect one or both eyes.

The symptoms of a cat eye infection resemble those of other eye diseases, such as conjunctivitis (inflammation of the lining of the eye). That makes it difficult for pet parents to know whether their cat has an eye infection or something else.

By performing a comprehensive eye exam, veterinarians can distinguish between an eye infection and other eye diseases. 

Causes of Eye Infections in Cats

Regardless of age or breed, all cats can get an eye infection. Causes of feline eye infections are often viral (like feline calicivirus, feline herpes virus, or feline viral rhinotracheitis). But sometimes, they can also be bacterial.

Non-infectious eye conditions in cats that may look like infections include:

• Trauma
• Allergies
• An eye tumor 
• Conjunctivitis
• A foreign body stuck in the eyedis
• Corneal abnormalities, such as corneal ulcers

Cat Eye Infection Symptoms

Cats prefer to hide symptoms of illness if they can, but eye infection symptoms are hard to hide. If you notice any of the following symptoms, take your cat to your veterinarian for an exam. Eye problems can escalate fast, and prompt veterinary care is key to successful treatment.

• Squinting 
• Cloudy eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Excessive blinking
• Rubbing at the eyes
• Excessive eye watering
• Redness in the whites of the eye
• Discharge from the eye that is thick or discolored (yellow, green)
• Nasal discharge
• Swollen third eyelid (located in the inner corner of the eye)

You may also notice some behavioral changes in your cat. For example, your cat may be less playful and isolate itself from you. Your cat may also become quite moody because their eyes are so uncomfortable.

How to Diagnosis Cat Eye Infections

Eye infections are bothersome to cats. Don’t delay scheduling an appointment with your veterinarian for an exam if your cat is showing any symptoms.

Your veterinarian will want to know the history of your cat’s eye problem. Provide as much information as you can, such as when you first noticed something wrong with your cat’s eyes and what symptoms you have observed.

Your veterinarian will then perform a physical exam and comprehensive eye exam. For the eye exam, they will use an instrument called an ophthalmoscope to examine all parts of your cat’s eyes. They will also perform a few eye diagnostic tests to determine the potential cause of the eye infection.

A fluorescein stain test is usually used to detect damage to the cornea, the clear protective covering of the eye. Your veterinarian will apply the stain to your cat’s cornea, turn off the light and look for a fluorescent green stain. A green stain indicates corneal damage, which could be causing an eye infection. 

Your veterinarian may also perform a Schirmer tear test, where they place a special test strip under the eyelid to test for adequate tear production. They’ll then check the intraocular pressure of each eye, making sure there is not too much pressure build up in the eyeball itself. These tests will help rule out other problems that may be causing symptoms your cat is experiencing.

Your veterinarian will also take a few small samples from the affected eye (skin and discharge) to look for signs of infection with a microscope.

Cat Eye Infection Treatment

You’ll want to start treating your cat’s eye infection as quickly as possible, but only with your vet’s go ahead.

Over-the-counter medications and home remedies for cat eye infections are not always effective and may cause more harm than good. For example, you should never use Neosporin in a cat’s eyes. It is toxic to cats and causes life-threatening allergic reactions. You should never use any product that is not specially formulated for eye (ophthalmic) use.

Your veterinarian will prescribe the most appropriate eye medicine for your cat, according to the underlying cause. Many treatments for eye infections are applied directly to the eye as either an eye drop or ointment. If the infection is severe enough, you may be referred to a veterinarian opthamologist.

Antibiotics are given to treat bacterial eye infections, and antiviral medications will treat viral eye infections.

Surgery is recommended if a foreign body is lodged in the eye or if serious damage to the cornea is present. 

Regardless of an eye infection’s cause, anti-inflammatory eye drops help to relieve pain and discomfort by reducing inflammation. These drops may delay the healing of corneal damage, though, so your veterinarian will examine your cat’s cornea before prescribing eye medicines.

If your cat has a lot of eye discharge, your veterinarian will recommend gently wiping away the discharge with a warm, damp cloth. Fortunately, most eye infections in cats heal well and quickly.

The cost of treating eye infections in cats can vary widely and depends on the cause and severity of the infection. With diagnosis and treatment, the cost of treating an eye infection in cats can cost several hundred dollars.

How to Prevent Cat Eye Infections

There are a few relatively easy things you can do to lessen your cat’s risk of eye infections.

Vaccination can prevent viral eye infections. The FVRCP vaccine, a core vaccine for cats, protects against feline herpesvirus type 1 and feline calicivirus, among other common cat viruses.

Keeping your cat’s nails trimmed is also helpful. Cats’ nails are sharp, so keeping them trimmed will lessen the likelihood of your cat scratching its eyes with its nails.

Conclusion

Eye infections in cats are serious and require prompt veterinary care. If your cat has symptoms of an eye infection, don’t delay in scheduling an appointment for your cat. The sooner your veterinarian can diagnose the infection, the sooner your cat can get the treatment they need for much-needed eye relief.

The post Cat Eye Infection: Symptoms and Treatment Options appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Viruses commonly cause feline respiratory infections. Calicivirus rises to the top of the list of viral causes of respiratory disease in cats.

There’s a lot to learn about calicivirus in cats. Without further ado, let’s dive right in!

What is Calicivirus?

Calicivirus is part of the Caliciviridae family of viruses. Viruses in this family infect cats and other animals like reptiles, amphibians, and livestock. 

Calicivirus affects wild and domestic cats all over the world. It primarily causes upper respiratory infections (nose, mouth, throat) and oral disease. Sometimes, though, it can spread down into the lungs, causing a lower respiratory infection.

There are many strains of calicivirus. They mutate rapidly and vary in severity. This is why, despite widespread use of a calicivirus vaccine (more on this later), calicivirus infections are still quite common in cats.

One particular strain of calicivirus, known as feline calicivirus-associated virulent systemic disease (FCV-VSD), makes cats very ill and can be fatal. Fortunately, this viral strain is rare.

A few other strains of the virus don’t cause respiratory infection at all. Instead, they affect the joints, causing FCV-associated lameness in our feline friends.

Is Calicivirus in Cats Contagious?

Yes, calicivirus is contagious. It can be spread from one cat to another via saliva, nasal droplets, or sneezing. 

If you’re wondering whether a dog or human can get calicivirus from cats, though, rest assured that this virus affects only cats. It cannot be transmitted to, or spread among, other species.

How Do Cats Get Calicivirus?

Calicivirus spreads easily between cats. The tiny virus particles are contained within aerosol droplets, eye and nose discharge, and saliva.

A cat becomes infected when they come into direct or indirect contact with an infected cat’s eye and nose discharge, saliva, or aerosol droplets. For example, when an infected cat sneezes, virus-containing aerosol droplets land on and contaminate surfaces in the cat’s environment, such as toys or a food bowl. A cat that plays with a contaminated toy can become infected.

Newborn kittens can become infected if their mother is infected and passes on the virus to her babies. 

Various cat populations, listed below, are at high-risk of calicivirus infections: 

• Old cats
• Cats with chronic disease
• Young cats, especially kittens
• Cats living in high-density environments (e.g., shelters, catteries)

Symptoms of Calicivirus in Cats

Cats with a calicivirus infection don’t immediately show signs of illness. When the virus enters the body, there is a 2- to 14-day incubation period before symptoms become apparent.

During this incubation period, the calicivirus sets up shop in the lining at the back of the mouth. While there, the virus replicates and then spreads to other places. With FCV-VSD, the virus spreads to major organs, like the liver. With FCV-associated lameness, the virus reaches a cat’s joints.

Once the symptoms appear, they usually last about 2 to 3 weeks but may last as long as 6 weeks in severe cases. An infected cat continues to shed the virus while showing symptoms.

Upper respiratory symptoms, listed below, are typically the first signs of a calicivirus infection:

• Sneezing
• Squinting
• Eye discharge
• Nasal discharge
• Nasal congestion
• Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the lining of the eyelids)

Eye and nose discharge range from clear to yellow-green. Yellow-green discharge indicates a secondary bacterial infection that developed after the viral infection.

When the virus spreads to the mouth, infected cats develop painful oral ulcers on the tongue, gums, and lips. These ulcers cause excessive drooling. 

Many cases of calicivirus are mild. However, if the infection becomes more severe, infected cats will show systemic signs of illness, such as weight loss, appetite loss, lethargy, and depression.

Cats with FCV-associated lameness will limp and have painful joints. Cats with FCV-VSD are critically ill, with symptoms like head and leg swelling, fever, and jaundice (yellow eyes, skin, and mouth).

Diagnosing Calicivirus in Cats

Veterinarians usually diagnose calicivirus according to symptoms. If your cat has symptoms of a respiratory infection, your veterinarian will take a history of your cat’s illness and perform a physical exam.

A definitive diagnosis of calicivirus is often not needed to begin treatment. However, there are some situations when a definitive diagnosis would be helpful. One such situation is multiple cats within one household becoming infected. Another is cats that are used for breeding.

To obtain a definitive diagnosis, a veterinarian would take a swab from the eyes, nose, or mouth and submit this sample to a diagnostic lab for virus identification. The virus can be identified in two ways:

• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test: a molecular test that detects viral DNA.
• Growing the virus in a petri dish.

Although these testing methods are accurate, false positives are possible. For example, a cat that was previously exposed to the virus in their environment will test positive, but may not be ill from the virus.

For cats with suspected FCV-associated lameness, X-rays would help rule out other causes of lameness, such as trauma.

If a cat has chronic respiratory symptoms that aren’t responding to treatment, chest X-rays, bloodwork, and eye and nose discharge analysis can help diagnose the problem. X-rays may also be done of the lungs to check for pneumonia or other secondary problems caused by the virus.

How to Treat Calicivirus in Cats

Treating calicivirus in cats is aimed at treating the symptoms rather than targeting the virus itself.

Fortunately, many cats infected with calicivirus fully recover from the infection. There’s a caveat, though. Recovered cats may continue to harbor the virus in their systems, making them carriers of the virus.

After recovery, about 50 percent of cats become carriers, either temporarily or for the rest of their lives. Carrier cats can shed the virus intermittently, making them sources of infection for other cats.

Several medications are available to treat calicivirus symptoms:

• Antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections.
• Appetite stimulants to increase appetite.
• Saline nose drops to relieve nasal congestion.
• Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce oral discomfort.

Supportive care measures are also recommended for cats infected with calicivirus. These include:

• Wiping away nose and eye discharge. 
• Feeding extra tasty food to stimulate appetite.
• Environmental humidification (steam from a hot shower) to relieve nasal and airway congestion.

Cats with FCV-VSD need hospitalization and intense treatment, such as intravenous fluid, to make a full recovery. Unfortunately, nearly 70 percent of cats with FCV-VSD will not survive, despite treatment.

Cats with FCV-associated lameness will benefit from anti-inflammatories to relieve joint discomfort.

If you have multiple cats and one of them is being treated for calicivirus, isolate the infected cat during treatment. Disinfect the infected cat’s items (toys, bedding, litter box, food, and water bowls) with a mixture of 1/2 cup of bleach per gallon of water. Do not use Lysol because it is toxic to cats.

Although treatment costs vary between practices and geographic locations, the average cost of treating calicivirus virus in cats is about $300-$400. If an infected needs hospitalization and intensive treatment, that cost can rise significantly.

How to Prevent Calicivirus in Cats

With so many strains of calicivirus in cats, 100 percent protection from infection isn’t feasible. Fortunately, the prevention strategies listed below can significantly reduce your cat’s chances of developing a calicivirus infection:

Avoid interactions with unknown cats. Prevent direct contact between your cat and other cats, especially if you don’t know the other cat’s vaccination status.

Practice good sanitation measures. Wash your hands between handling multiple cats.

Be careful when introducing new cats. If you adopt a new cat, isolate them for 1 to 2 weeks and monitor them for respiratory symptoms.

Calicivirus Vaccine in Cats

Getting your cat vaccinated for calicivirus is an essential prevention strategy. The calicivirus vaccine is a core vaccine for cats.

Be aware, though, that the vaccine does not provide 100 percent protection against the virus. Even though a vaccinated cat can get calicivirus, the vaccine will help to reduce illness severity.

The vaccine comes in two formulations: nasal and injectable. The nasal formulation will cause a cat to sneeze for up to a week after vaccination. 

The calicivirus vaccine is given in combination with other vaccines, including feline herpesvirus-1 and feline parvovirus.

The 2020 American Animal Hospital Association/American Association of Feline Practitioner Vaccination Guidelines recommend the protocol listed below for the calicivirus vaccine:

• Administer the first dose no earlier than 6 weeks of age.
• Administer subsequent doses every 3 to 4 weeks until the cat is 16 to 20 weeks of age.
• Administer vaccine boosters every 1 to 3 years.

There are some variations in the frequency of booster vaccinations. For example, if you’ll be boarding your cat, your veterinarian may recommend a booster vaccine before your cat enters the boarding facility. 

Your veterinarian will determine how frequently your cat should receive a booster.

If your cat is older than 16 weeks of age at the time of the first vaccine, your veterinarian will follow a different vaccination protocol, such as giving two doses 3 to 4 weeks apart.

The post Calicivirus in Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

But what exactly is taurine, and why is it such a big deal for cats?

We’re going to help you understand what you need to know about taurine so that you can keep your cat in optimal health.

What is Taurine?

Taurine is an amino acid, the building block of proteins. It is found only in animal-based proteins. 

For cats, taurine earns the additional classification of an essential amino acid. Essential amino acids must be obtained from the diet because they cannot be synthesized in the body. Cats cannot produce taurine, making it an essential amino acid for them.

It was first classified as an essential amino acid for cats in the 1980s. Since that time, all commercial cat foods have been supplemented with taurine.

Is Taurine Good for Cats?

Absolutely! Taurine plays a vital role in many body functions including:

• Vision
• Digestion
• Fetal development
• Healthy pregnancy
• Heart muscle function
• Immune system functioning

Common Sources of Taurine for Cats

Taurine is found only in animal-based proteins. Sources of taurine include chicken and beef. All regular commercial cat foods are supplemented with taurine. 

The amount of taurine in cat food varies between wet and dry foods. The processing required to manufacture canned cat food decreases the amount of taurine in the food. Therefore, the amount of taurine is higher in wet cat food than in dry food to account for what’s lost during heat processing.

Cats’ bodies metabolize taurine quickly, so cats need to have taurine in their diet every day. 

Taurine Deficiency in Cats

Given taurine’s many functions in a cat’s body, a taurine deficiency in cats has significant health consequences. 

First, though, let’s discuss why cats develop taurine deficiencies. 

Diet is the main reason. Cats that eat homemade diets without enough animal-based proteins are at high risk of a taurine deficiency. Also, cats that prefer dog food can become taurine-deficient because most commercially available dog food does not contain enough taurine.

Underlying illness is another reason for taurine deficiencies in cats.

Signs of taurine deficiency develop very slowly, taking anywhere from several months to several years to become apparent.

Now that you know why cats get taurine deficiencies, let’s explain what this deficiency can cause in a cat’s body:

Feline central retinal degeneration: Taurine helps maintain the health of the retina. With a taurine deficiency, the cells within the retina, called photoreceptors, start to degrade. This degradation is irreversible and leads to blindness.

Dilated cardiomyopathy: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) occurs when the heart muscles become large and flaccid, making the heart unable to pump blood adequately. A taurine deficiency weakens the heart muscles, leading to DCM. Left unmanaged, DCM eventually leads to congestive heart failure.

Signs of heart disease include weakness and reduced appetite.

Digestive problems: Taurine is found in bile salts, which are produced in the liver and help with a cat’s digestion. A taurine deficiency leads to digestive problems.

Pregnancy and fetal development complications: Taurine is necessary for a healthy pregnancy in cats. Mama cats with a taurine deficiency won’t be able to provide enough nutrition to their unborn kittens. After birth, kittens born to mothers with a taurine deficiency have poor and delayed growth and low birth weights. Also, taurine-deficient mama cats tend to have small litters. 

Diagnosing a Taurine Deficiency

Taurine deficiencies in cats are not always readily noticeable. If your cat has any of the health complications listed above, take your cat to your veterinarian for a diagnostic workup.

Diagnosing a taurine deficiency is a thorough process.

Your vet will ask you detailed questions about your cat’s history, especially their diet. Expect questions like these listed below:

• Do you feed your cat commercial cat food?
• Does your cat eat a homemade diet? If so, what’s in the diet?
• Does your cat eat dog food?
• What symptoms have you observed, and when did you first notice them?
• Is your cat bumping into furniture, as if they’re having trouble seeing?

The physical exam will be a comprehensive observation of all of your cat’s body systems, especially the heart and eyes. For the heart exam, your vet will listen closely to your cat’s heartbeat and rhythm. Additional heart testing, such as chest X-rays and an electrocardiogram, will provide more information about your cat’s heart function.

For the eye exam, your vet will look closely at your cat’s retina, located in the back of the eye. They will look for any signs of retinal damage.

Beyond the physical exam, your vet will take a few blood samples to perform routine blood work and test specifically for taurine levels.

If your cat has a taurine deficiency, your vet will prescribe taurine supplementation, which could be lifelong. 

Taurine Supplements for Cats

The only way to correct a taurine deficiency in cats is through supplementation. Taurine supplements come in various formulations. There’s powdered taurine, as well as taurine capsules, tablets, and gels.

Taurine supplements are available over the counter. However, they are not regulated by the FDA, and thus do not have the requirement to undergo rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness. 

If evaluating the products yourself seems daunting, ask your veterinarian for recommendations. For whichever product you select, your veterinarian can instruct you on how much to give your cat.

Here are a few more things to consider about supplementation for cats:

• Retinal damage from a taurine deficiency is irreversible. Supplementation may slow or stop the vision loss but cannot reverse it.

• Taurine deficiency-related heart damage is also irreversible. Supplementation may help to slow the progression of heart muscle dysfunction.

• Other than retinal and heart damage, taurine supplementation may reverse the symptoms of deficiency if the deficiency is caught early enough.

The Importance of Taurine in Aging Cats

Sufficient dietary taurine from meat sources is as important to senior cats as it is to younger felines. Taurine helps optimize ocular, cardiac, and gastrointestinal health in cats of all ages and is especially important to geriatric cats who may be beginning to experience health issue with these body systems.

Taurine also assists with regulating blood sugar. Its antioxidant properties also theoretically help support your older cat from the effects of aging by assisting to preserve vision and overall multi-organ health, including that of the heart, liver, and kidneys, which may begin to decline in older cats. Taurine also helps support a healthy immune system, assisting your geriatric cat with warding off infections. Furthermore, taurine helps support a healthy coat and teeth and can help perk up your older cat’s energy level.

Consuming a well-balanced commercial cat food formulated for your cat’s life stage will provide sufficient taurine to enhance your aging kitty’s overall health.

The post Taurine for Cats: Why It’s Important appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Let’s explore why dogs have pale gums and what you can do about it.

Dog Gum Basics: What Color Should Your Dog’s Gums Be?

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author. However, Great Pet Care may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The gums are one of several structures in the mouth that support the teeth. Healthy, normal gums in dogs have a pink or salmon color. The gums are pink because of the many tiny blood vessels just under the gums’ surface.

Healthy dog gums are also shiny and moist, indicating that your pup is well-hydrated.

There are normal variations in dogs’ gum color. For example, some dogs have mottled or pigmented gums, meaning that the gums have spots of dark pigment. This is nothing to worry about.  

Checking Your Dog’s Gums

As a responsible pet parent, you already know about closely monitoring your pet’s health and behavior so that you can detect when something’s not right. 

Checking your dog’s gums should be included in this monitoring. Fortunately, this is easy to do and not at all uncomfortable for your dog. 

How do you check your dog’s gums?

Gently lift the upper lip and pull down the lower lip to observe your dog’s gum color, which should be pink or salmon in color.

Next, gently touch your dog’s gums to determine if they feel moist. Gums that feel a little sticky or tacky could indicate dehydration.

You can also perform the capillary refill test, which is a quick way to evaluate hydration status and blood flow to the gums. Gently press your index finger to your dog’s gums and lift your finger back up. The area you pressed will be white from your finger’s pressure, then return to the normal pink color in 1-2 seconds, indicating adequate hydration and a quick refill of the blood vessels. 

If more than 1-2 seconds pass before your dog’s gums turn pink again, your dog may be dehydrated or have an underlying health problem that is affecting circulation.

How often should you check your dog’s gums?

Check your dog’s gums at least once or twice a month. However, it’s best to check the gums each time that you brush your dog’s teeth, which should be daily. Take note of any change in the gum’s feel and appearance.

Be aware that, for dogs with mottled or pigmented gums, it can be challenging to see the capillary refill test results and determine if the gums have changed color. 

Pale gums in dogs range from pale pink to white. Because pale gums are usually associated with a problem with hydration or circulation, the gums will probably feel sticky and lose their shiny appearance from a lack of moisture.

Causes of Pale Gums in Dogs

Many health problems can affect a dog’s circulation and lead to pale gums. Some of the more common causes of pale gums include:

Anemia

Anemia is a decreased number of red blood cells (RBCs). It is not a disease unto itself but rather a consequence of some other disease process. Dogs with anemia are often weak, tired, and have difficulty breathing. They also experience weight loss and have a faster heart rate to pump out more blood.

Kidney Disease

The kidneys produce a substance called erythropoietin (EPO), which stimulates RBC production. During kidney disease, the kidneys stop working well, meaning that EPO production goes down. With less EPO, fewer RBCs are being produced, ultimately leading to pale gums.

Signs of kidney disease include excessive drinking and urination, reduced appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Chronic kidney disease can cause anemia.

Shock

Shock occurs after a traumatic event, such as being hit by a car, that causes significant external or internal bleeding. A dog’s circulation plummets, blood vessels constrict, and gums become pale.

Dogs in shock have rapid breathing, a rapid heartbeat, and reduced body temperature.

Shock is an emergency that requires immediate veterinary treatment.

Internal Bleeding

Bleeding internally can result from traumatic injury or organ disease, such as stomach ulcers. It reduces circulation, leading to pale gums in dogs. Signs of internal bleeding may include sudden collapse, lethargy, difficulty breathing, and pot-bellied appearance. Internal bleeding is a medical emergency and you should take your pet to the veterinary hospital immediately.

Parasites

Parasites can wreak havoc by feeding on a dog’s blood and depriving dogs of vital nutrients. Fleas land on a dog’s fur and feed on the blood. A heavy flea infestation can cause significant blood loss, leading to pale gums. Symptoms of a flea infestation include intense itching and hair loss from the constant scratching.

Intestinal parasites like roundworms cause digestive problems, such as vomiting and diarrhea. They can also cause weight loss and reduced energy and appetite.

Bloat

Bloat in dogs can quickly become a life-threatening condition. When the stomach fills with gas, it can become so distended that it twists upon itself. During this process, blood vessels can either twist or be compressed, leading to poor circulation to parts of the body and pale gums.

Dogs with bloat have distended abdomens, may heave or retch, may collapse and be severely lethargic or may be restless and uncomfortable.

Blood Clotting Disorders

The blood clotting process is complex. A blood clotting disorder, such as thrombocytopenia (a lack of platelets), disrupts this intricate process and causes abnormal bleeding. Rat bait ingestion can also disrupt this process and cause abnormal bleeding. Pale gums could result from abnormal bleeding.

Signs of blood clotting disorders include excessive bleeding and skin bruises.

Heart Disease

If your dog’s heart cannot pump blood properly, the gums won’t get the blood supply they need to stay healthy, leading to pale gums. Heart disease signs are numerous and include lethargy, reduced appetite, coughing, and a fluid-filled abdomen.

Heavy Metal Toxicity

Dogs aren’t exactly picky eaters, so they may eat something that contains heavy metals, such as pennies or nails. Heavy metals like zinc can reduce RBC production, leading to anemia and pale gums.

Heavy metal toxicity also causes symptoms like vomiting, reduced appetite, and lethargy.

Cancer

Cancer robs the body of so much. Dogs can be affected by many types of cancer. Some types of cancer affect the bone marrow, which produces RBCs. If there’s cancer in the bone marrow, RBC production goes down, leading to anemia and pale gums.

Cancer has a broad range of symptoms that depend on the type of cancer.

What to Do if Your Dog Has Pale Gums

If your dog has pale gums and is lethargic or otherwise not themselves you should go to the vet immediately. Pale gums in dogs are abnormal and always warrant further investigation by a veterinarian.

If your dog is critically ill from shock or bloat, immediately seek veterinary care from your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital. If your dog is in shock from a traumatic injury that’s caused significant bleeding, you can perform first aid by covering the wound with a clean cloth. However, your primary goal is to get your dog treated as soon as possible.

The other causes of pale gums listed above are not necessarily life-and-death medical emergencies. However, because pale gums indicate an underlying health problem, your dog will need prompt veterinary care. 

Your veterinarian will ask you many questions as they examine your dog to determine the cause of the pale gums. Come prepared with as much information as possible, including what’s listed below:

• First observation of the pale gums
• What the gums looked and felt like
• Other symptoms or changes in behavior
• History of trauma
• History of eating anything toxic or poisonous, such has heavy metals (pennies) or rat bait

A detailed history will give your veterinarian more clues of the underlying problem. After performing a physical exam, they will perform other diagnostic tests, including routine blood work, X-rays, and blood clotting tests.

A pet health insurance policy from a company such as Lemonade may help offset the costs of diagnostics, procedures, and medications for a condition related to pale gums. Your veterinarian may want to perform lab tests, blood work, or any number of diagnostics to determine the cause of your dog’s pale gums.

Having peace of mind with a customized pet health policy like Lemonade is worth its weight in gold. For more info, visit the Lemonade site and answer a few quick questions to get a personalized pet health insurance plan quote.

The sooner your veterinarian can determine what’s causing the pale gums, the sooner your dog can be treated and get back to good health.

Save Money with Lemonade Pet Insurance

Lemonade Pet Insurance

• Simple sign-up and speedy claims payments.
• Easily file claims using the AI-powered Lemonade mobile app.
• Customize your coverage with add-on preventative plans.

Get a Quote

How to Prevent Pale Gums in Dogs

Since pale gums are a sign of other underlying medical conditions, preventing pale gums in your dogs is a matter of staying on top of preventative wellness.

Always keep up with your pet’s vaccine and testing schedules so you can detect medical conditions as early as possible. When you are brushing your dog’s teeth, pay attention to any change gum color. If you notice anything abnormal, always reach out to your veterinarian to see if further evaluation makes sense.

The post Pale Gums in Dogs: 10 Reasons It Might Be Happening appeared first on Great Pet Care.

But what about cats? Are they part of the drool conversation?

They sure are! But usually not for a good reason. So why do cats drool? And what causes our feline friends to salivate? Let’s dig deeper into drooling in cats.

Do Cats Drool?

Cats do drool, but not as much as dogs. While some dog breeds are legendary for their slobber, all cat breeds drool about the same.

Drool is saliva, which is produced by the salivary glands. Saliva is normal and has a few essential functions, like lubricating food for easier digestion. Saliva is considered to be drool when produced in large enough amounts to flow out of the mouth.

Some cats drool occasionally and are otherwise healthy. In most cases of cat drooling, though, there’s an underlying health problem that needs attention. 

Why Do Cats Drool?

Cats drool for several reasons. Some of these reasons are harmless, but most are not. Let’s go through the benign reasons first.

Some cats drool when they’re super-relaxed. For example, you may have noticed that your cat drools a little when you pet them. There’s no conclusive reason why this happens. It may be due to relaxed jaw muscles, similar to when we doze off and wake up with a small pool of drool on the pillow. 

Other cats drool when they hear the sound of a can of cat food being opened, and the smell of that tasty food reaches their noses.

But most of the time, if your cat is drooling excessively or often, it’s a sign of trouble. Cats drool more when they’re unwell than when they’re feeling good. 

Worrisome reasons for cats drooling are listed below:

Periodontal Disease 

Periodontal disease is a disease of the teeth and teeth-supporting structures, like the gums. Cats with advanced periodontal disease have significant oral discomfort and cannot keep saliva from dripping out of the mouth. 

Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Disease (FORL) 

FORL is a cat-specific dental disease that occurs when a cat’s gums start to reabsorb the teeth. It causes significant pain, and drooling is one of the first signs of the disease.

Oral Pain

There are lots of causes of oral pain, such as trauma, infection, and foreign bodies. This pain leads to drooling.

Toxins

If a cat eats a toxic substance, such as a poisonous flower or plant (e.g., poinsettia), they will start drooling in an attempt to rid the body of the toxin. 

Nausea 

A cat that has an upset tummy and feels nauseated often starts to drool.

Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease is a common disease in older cats. When the kidneys stop working well, toxins build up in the blood, causing a condition called ‘uremia’ (urine in the blood). Uremia can cause problems in the mouth, including painful ulcers that lead to foul-smelling drool.

Medications

Some medications, such as certain antibiotics, cause drooling in cats.

Nerve Damage

Nerve damage is uncommon in cats. However, if the cranial nerve that controls mouth movement is damaged, a cat can longer close its mouth correctly, leading to drooling.

Excessive Drooling in Cats: When to Worry

Drooling a little bit before dinnertime or while being petted is not a big concern in cats.

So, when should you start to worry about cat drooling? Here are signs to look out for that indicate that your cat’s drooling is a problem:

• Signs of systemic illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, and weight loss
• Obvious oral discomfort
• Difficulty eating or drinking
• Bad breath
• New, finicky eating behavior
• Foul-smelling or blood-tinged saliva 
• Constant, excessive drooling

If you see any of these signs, take your cat to your veterinarian. Because cat drool often points to another health problem, you don’t want to delay getting your cat looked at. 

Diagnosing the Cause of Cat Drooling

If your cat is drooling a lot, your veterinarian will do a thorough diagnostic workup to determine the cause.

First, your veterinarian will perform a physical exam and ask you questions about the drooling. Be prepared to answer questions like these:

• What does the drooling look like?
• When did you first notice your cat drooling?
• Has your cat had behavior changes as a result of the drooling?

The more information you can provide about your cat’s drooling, the better your veterinarian will be able to determine what’s going on.

Part of the physical exam will include an oral exam. Depending on your cat’s level of oral discomfort, your veterinarian may need to sedate your cat to take a closer look in the mouth. They will look for any oral abnormalities that could be causing the drooling. 

Because drooling can sometimes result from systemic disease, your veterinarian will perform a full examination.

Depending on the physical exam findings, additional diagnostic testing may be needed. For example, bloodwork would reveal systemic disease, like kidney disease. X-rays of the mouth would reveal signs of oral trauma or dental disease.

Treating a Cat for Drooling

Once your veterinarian has finished evaluating your cat, they will develop a treatment plan to address the underlying health problem. Once that health problem has been treated or is successfully under control, the excessive drooling should resolve.

Can I Prevent Cat Drool?

You may not be able to stop or prevent your cat from drooling completely. But there are certain things that you can do to keep your cat’s mouth healthy. Try these tips to care for your cat’s oral health:

Brush your cat’s teeth. Regular toothbrushing (at least several times a week) helps keep the teeth and gums healthy. Effective dental treats help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth that can lead to periodontal disease.

Schedule dental cleanings. Annual veterinary dental cleanings, which are performed under anesthesia, give your cat’s mouth a deep clean and allows for early detection of dental disease. 

Keep consistent veterinary visits. Wellness checkups allow your veterinarian to assess your cat’s overall health and detect systemic health problems early. Catching and treating these diseases early can keep serious illness and excessive drooling at bay.

Drooling in cats usually signals a serious health problem that requires veterinary care. If you notice troubling signs of drooling in your cat, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, your cat’s drooling can be managed, and your cat—and their mouth—will feel much better.

The post Why Do Cats Drool? Common Causes, Explained. appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Shedding can range from being a manageable mess to being a never-ending quest to clean up dog hair from, well, everywhere.

Wherever your dog is on the shedding spectrum, we’re going to help you understand more about dog shedding. We’ll explain why dogs shed, which breeds shed the most (and least), how to manage the shedding, and what to do about excessive shedding. 

Why Do Dogs Shed?

Before answering this question, let’s first talk about the basics of a dog’s coat. The coat serves many purposes, including providing insulation from the winter’s cold temperatures and protection from the summer’s unrelenting heat and sunshine.  

A dog’s coat contains three hair types: primary, secondary, and tactile.

Primary hairs, which make up the outer coat, are long and coarse. Secondary hairs, which make up the undercoat, are soft. Tactile hairs, like whiskers, help dogs to sense things in their environments.

Now, we’ll answer the big reason for why dogs shed. Dogs shed to get rid of dead or damaged hairs, making room for new and healthy hair to grow in. 

Dogs will shed either seasonally or year-round. Outdoor dogs—who may be living as strays— tend to shed seasonally in the spring and fall. In the spring, these dogs will shed to have a lighter outer coat for the summer. In the fall, shedding allows for a thicker and warmer undercoat to grow in to prepare for the winter.

Indoor dogs usually shed year-round because the artificial heat and light inside a home don’t provide the seasonal ‘signals’ to control when the shedding occurs.

Heat and light aren’t the only factors controlling a dog’s shedding. Health plays a significant role, too. Stress, anxiety, and various health conditions can cause shedding. Interestingly, pregnancy can cause shedding because of a loss of calcium and other nutrients that support a healthy coat.

Do All Dogs Shed? 

In a word, yes. Shedding is a normal occurrence in all dogs, but the rate and amount of shedding will vary among breeds and individuals within a breed. Breed characteristics, particularly coat type, play a significant role in how much a dog sheds.

Some breeds, like Poodles, have hair that doesn’t turn over quickly. These breeds won’t shed very much. 

You may think that breeds with longer and silkier hair, like Collies, are heavy shedders, but that’s not necessarily the case. Dogs with short and dense coats, such as Labrador Retrievers, tend to shed more than dogs with long hair.

Do Puppies Shed?

Indeed, they do! Puppies are born with a soft and fluffy coat that keeps their body temperature where it needs to be. Eventually, this coat will be shed and replaced by a thicker adult coat. Depending on the breed, the puppy will grow a single or double coat.

In some breeds, the adult coat will look drastically different than the puppy coat. For example, the coats of Dalmatian puppies have no spots, while adult Dalmatian coats are full of spots.

Puppies will usually begin shedding their puppy coat at around 4 to 6 months of age, but this shedding could start as early as 3 months of age. During the shedding process, a puppy may look a little unkempt until their adult coat comes in fully.

For some breeds, the adult coat takes a long time to come in. For Pomeranian puppies, it can take nearly two years to grow the adult coat.

Dog Breeds That Shed 

Some breeds are naturally heavy shedders. Breeds such as Siberian Huskies and Akitas that have thick double coats to protect them from cold temperatures are heavy shedders. 

In the spring, these double-coated breeds take shedding to an entirely different level. To prepare for the summer, they blow their coat—a process that sheds the soft undercoat. The hair comes out in large clumps that resemble sheep’s wool and are enough to fill a large trash bag (or two).  

Here are some other dog breeds that shed a lot:

• Chow Chow
• Saint Bernard
• Golden Retriever
• Labrador Retriever
• German Shepherd
• Bernese Mountain Dog

Dog Breeds That Shed the Least

Some dog breeds are bred to be light shedders. These low-shedding dogs are great for people who are allergic to pet dander, which is attached to a dog’s hair and gets released into the air during shedding.  

Low-shedding breeds are often called “hypoallergenic,” but this is a misnomer because all dogs shed and have some level of allergy-inducing dander in their hair.

Low-shedding dog breeds include:

• Maltese
• Irish Terrier
• Bichon Frise
• Afghan Hound
• Giant Schnauzer
• Miniature Poodle
• American Hairless Terrier

How To Reduce Shedding in Dogs

If your dog is a heavy shedder, you may ask yourself, “How can I stop my dog from shedding?” Well, because shedding occurs naturally, you won’t be able to stop it from happening. Fortunately, you can reduce the shedding to make it more manageable. 

Let’s go through some dog-shedding remedies.

Regular Brushing

Brushing gets rid of the dead and damaged hair that was going to come out anyway. This hair will accumulate in the brush and on the floor near your dog, making clean up quick and easy.  Brushing also distributes healthy skin oils throughout your dog’s coat.

Heavy shedders should be brushed at least a few times a week, if not daily. Monthly brushings are usually sufficient for light shedders. Your veterinarian or grooming professional can advise you on how often you should brush your dog.

Make sure to pick the right brush for the job. For example, a bristle brush works well for coarse coats, while a pin brush is ideal for long and silky coats. Brushing gloves are also available. Whichever brush type you use, always brush in the direction of your dog’s hair growth.

Regular Bathing

Like brushing, bathing gets rid of dead or damaged hair and collects it in one place. Oatmeal shampoos are a great dog shampoo for shedding because they help to maintain a healthy and shiny coat. 

Ask your veterinarian about how often you should bathe your dog. Some dogs can get by with a monthly bath, while others need a bath every 1 to 2 weeks. 

Healthy Diet

A well-balanced diet that’s chock full of essential nutrients will help to maintain your dog’s coat and make shedding more manageable. Fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are part of that healthy diet. 

If not already included as an ingredient in your dog’s food, fatty acids can be given as supplements. For instance, Dinovite daily whole food supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids from ground flax seed, vitamin E, and a highly digestible form of zinc to support skin and coat health. Talk with your veterinarian if you’re unsure which fatty acid supplement to choose.

Coconut oil is another dietary remedy for reducing dog shedding. It contains fats called Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), which are good fats that promote healthy skin and coat. You can add coconut oil, ideally unrefined or virgin coconut oil, to your dog’s food. Your veterinarian can advise you on how much to add. Be aware that too much coconut oil can cause greasy stools or diarrhea.

Dog Shedding Suit

There’s been a lot of buzz about dog-shedding suits. These suits are designed to contain a dog’s shedding and are reportedly comfortable for a dog to wear.

These suits are safe, but your dog may not be a fan of wearing one. If your dog is squirming and looks uncomfortable in the suit, don’t force your dog to wear it. Instead, try one of the other strategies for reducing shedding.

Excessive Shedding in Dogs: When to Seek Help

Not all shedding is normal. Excessive shedding often signals an underlying problem, including those listed below:

• Stress
• Malnutrition
• Skin infections
• Allergies (e.g., flea allergy)
• External parasites (fleas, ticks, mites)
• Hormonal imbalances (e.g., hypothyroidism)

Excessive shedding can lead to bald patches in a dog’s fur. It can also irritate the skin, leaving the skin with redness and bumps. 

If your dog is shedding more than usual and the skin is in bad shape, take your dog to your veterinarian for a thorough workup. Your veterinarian will perform various diagnostic tests to determine what’s causing the excessive hair loss. Once your veterinarian identifies the problem, they will prescribe the appropriate treatment. 

Treating the underlying condition will help to resolve the excessive shedding.

Dog Shedding: Staying on Top of It

Shedding is a normal occurrence in dogs and helps to keep a dog’s coat healthy. Develop a routine to manage your dog’s shedding and prevent your home from being taken over by your dog’s hair.

If the shedding is excessive and your dog’s skin looks unhealthy, consult with your veterinarian to determine what’s causing the problematic shedding and figure out the best treatment plan. 

The post Dog Shedding: Why It Happens and When To Worry appeared first on Great Pet Care.