One day you're scratching your cat's ears when you notice something unusual inside -- a dark brown, crumbly substance that looks sort of like coffee grounds. Your cat probably has ear mites, tiny, pinpoint-sized parasitic insects that live and breed in the ear canals. They feed on skin debris, cell fluids and blood, and can gnaw on the tissue of the ear canal. Ear mite infestations usually itch, so cats with ear mites will scratch excessively at the backs or insides of their ears -- sometimes to the point of producing raw patches -- shake their heads, or hold their ears at an odd angle.
Ear mites are a common infestation and are easily spread between cats and other animals. Treatment of ear mites involves removing the debris from the ears and using a topical insecticide in the ear canal to kill off the remaining mites and new mites that hatch out of eggs left behind. All animals in the house have to be treated -- if you don't, the ear mites that you get rid of from one cat will just take up residence in another cat's (or a dog's ) ears.
Before even treating your cat for ear mites, however, you need proof that they're there. Gently remove a little bit of the crumbly debris from your cat's ear canal with a cotton ball. Then examine it under bright light with a magnifier or spread it on a piece of dark paper. Any movement -- including tiny white moving specks -- means mites. Sometimes, mite debris is located deep in the ear canal where you can't see it. If you suspect your cat has mites, gently massage the back of the ear at the base between your thumb and forefinger. A cat with no mites usually enjoys it or, at worst, will fuss and try to get away. A cat who has unwanted company living in her ear canal will usually start scratching vigorously.
Other ear problems can cause itchiness and debris in the ear canal, so don't start home remedies for ear mites until you're fairly certain that's the problem. If you can't get proof of ear mites, it's better to take your cat to the vet so you can be sure that there's not something else going on.
Grooming
The Cat Care Clinic Provides:
- Gentle, experienced feline groomers
- Our basic grooming packages include ear cleaning, anal gland expression, and nail trimming.
- Matted hair handled by "comb out" or shaving
Types of Shaves
- Lion Shave (Lion Cut) - Shave entire body except for the head, paws and end of tail (Lion Shaves are our specialty for long-haired cats that are difficult to groom)
- Partial Shaves - Shave fur from around rear end (Hygiene/Sanitary Clip); Shave fur from the armpits to the belly (Abdomen Clip)
- Custom Shaves
Types of Baths
- Regular baths with emollient shampoo
- Flea bath
- Medicated bath with a shampoo designed for a specific skin condition
Vinyl Nail Caps
Vinyl nail caps can be applied with adhesive to your cat's claws. This amazing product, called Soft Paws, effectively covers the claws so no damage occurs when your cat scratches. Vinyl nail cap application lasts for approximately 3 to 6 weeks, depending on your cat's activity level and nail chewing habits.
Vinyl nail caps can be applied with adhesive to your cat's claws. This amazing product, called Soft Paws, effectively covers the claws so no damage occurs when your cat scratches. Vinyl nail cap application lasts for approximately 3 to 6 weeks, depending on your cat's activity level and nail chewing habits.
How to Take Care of Your Pet Rabbit Correctly
Caring for a pet rabbit properly isn't that difficult but, surprisingly, a lot of rabbit owners don't care for theirs very well. If you just got a new pet rabbit and are not sure how to take care of it, or if you're already a rabbit owner who feels you may not be taking care of your rabbit correctly, read and follow these quick rabbit care tips. You'll soon find your rabbit is happier and you'll feel more comfortable that you're taking care of your rabbit properly.
Feed your rabbit correctly - Taking care of your pet rabbit correctly means being concerned with how well your rabbit eats. An average sized rabbit should eat three quarters of a cup of rabbit pellets every day, plus at least 5 or 6 types of chopped up vegetables. I feed mine twice a day and they usually get a selection of vegetables like kale, carrots, cilantro, chinese celery (especially the leaves, which they love), bean sprouts, green beans (not too many as rabbits cannot pass gas, so these can give them a bad stomach ache), basil, parsley etc. I also give my four rabbits two pieces of banana every other day, which is absolutely their favorite treat in the world. Just make sure you don't give them too much of it as they will get fat and be less healthy.
Give them fresh water twice a day - Make sure you check their water a couple of times a day and change it if it has hay, wood shavings, food or poop floating in it. For some reason, my rabbits always seem to get a piece of poop in their water. Don't know where it comes from, but that's why I always check that their water is clean. You can also use a water bottle rather than a bowl, although, when I tried that I discovered they kept knocking it onto the floor no matter how securely I tied it and then none of them could have a drink.
Buy a good cage - If you're going to take care of your pet rabbits correctly, they need a large enough cage that they have room to move around. My rabbits started out in a cage about four feet by two feet but, with four of them, I quickly realized it was too small. Mine are now in a pen that I made out of cube shelving. You can buy cubes of wire shelving at most hardwear stores or Target and then make a cage out of them yourself (which is great, because you can design any shape or size you want, just buy more shelving cubes!). My 'pen' is around seven feet long and four feet wide, and it has two storeys at both ends of the pen, so that the rabbits have something to jump up on and can sit off the ground if necessary. Whatever you use, make sure it's easily cleanable and that your rabbits have enough room to move around.
Secure electric wires - If you let your rabbit outside his cage and into the house, make sure you have all the electric wires taped up and away from him. Rabbits chew through everything and a quick chew through an electric cord while you're not looking could send him quickly to bunny heaven.
Make sure your pet rabbits have enough toys - Rabbits get bored very easily, so sitting around all day in a cage isn't good for them. Make sure your rabbits have enough toys - plastic balls, hay balls, cardboard boxes, old books they can chew on, newspapers, etc. They need toys so they can wear their teeth down, if not, they get too long and can cause health problems.
Pick up your rabbit carefully - Most rabbits don't like being picked up, so make sure you pick yours up properly. Do not pick your rabbit up by the scruff of his neck. It's cruel. Pick him up with his bottom supported by one hand and his front end supported by your other hand and press him into your body so he feels completely supported and not in danger of falling.
Trim your rabbit's nails - Make sure you trim your rabbit's nails often. House rabbits, especially, get nails that grow very fast as they aren't able to wear them down. This is very unhealthy for a rabbit as it can cause feet problems, so make sure you check your rabbit's nails at least once a month and snip them slightly with small nail clippers if they're getting too long.
If your rabbit is sick, take him to a vet - Many rabbit owners try to nurse their rabbits themselves rather than take them to a vet. If your rabbit stops eating for more than 24 hours, gets diarrhea for more than 24 hours, or is generally looking ill, take him immediately to a vet. This really can be the difference between life and death as rabbits have a tendency to get sick and die very fast. Sure, it may cost you some money, but isn't that better than losing your pressure rabbit?
All in all, following these common sense tips on how to properly take care of a rabbit will make sure your rabbit is happy and healthy and you enjoy having him as a pet too.
- 1Make sure your furry "family member" has a food that suits their nutritional needs. Try to buy natural pet food for your family member; not only will she/he appreciate it,they will have a shiner coat, more energy, be happier etc. Feeding them table scraps - no matter how cute they are when they beg - is not a good idea since people food often has minerals and items in it that can be harmful to our feline and canine friends.
Small Pet Toys
Keep Your Pet Happy & Healthy. Shop PetSmart® For Small Pet Toys Today!
PetSmart.com/SmallPetToys - 2If you have a dog take them on walks. It will give you and her/him exercise. This also acts as bonding time between you and them, allowing you to be come closer together.
- 3Give your "family member" a bath at least once every few weeks. If you have a cat go to your local vet and have them give them a bath (that way you don't end up with a million scratches on you). Their are also special shampoos (even ones that don't use water) that you can use on your pet. All they require are a washcloth and a loving hand. Brushing your cat often feels like a they are getting a good scratch, so this can be a great way to follow up their bath time.
- 4If you have a dog, make sure to cut his/her nails every two months or so. If you have an inside cat, and you don't want your house to look like a bear was in it, it might be a good idea to get her/him de-clawed. If you would like your cat to keep his/her claws, be sure to invest a few dollars in a good scratching post and take the time to teach them how to use it. This will save you and your pet SEVERAL headaches later on.
- 5Just like you have to go to the doctor for regular check-ups to make sure you are healthy, be sure to bring your friend to the vet for a check-up as well. Since they can't talk, sometimes it takes an expert look to find out if they are well or not.
- 6Go to a dog park with your dog, play Frisbee or ball whatever gets them moving. If you have a cat, go to your local pet store and get him/her a cat toy. Don't be surprised though if your cat doesn't like the toy you've chosen n(they are known to be picky). Keep trying and know that sometimes, their favorite toy may be a spot of light or a ball of rolled up paper.
- 7Most importantly, spend time with your pet. Let them know you love them, and they will be sure to love you back, plus give it a treat sometimes, they will love you if you do that.
How to travel with a pet by automobile
By Automobile
The automobile is usually the best way to travel with dogs. If you own a vehicle, chances are your dog has ridden in it for trips to the vets, the park and so on. If not, now is the time to start. Some dogs have anxiety over riding in cars. The more positive your dog’s automobile experiences are, the more likely he will enjoy the rides. If your dog only rides in the car for vet visits, and he dislikes the vet, his anxiety is understandable. Try taking him for short, frequent car rides that end up at the park, dog supply store (where he will get a toy or treat), or another pleasant place. If your dog does not adjust to the car, then a road trip is not a good option. If you must bring your dog for a long car ride, ask your vet about possible anti-anxiety medications that can make the trip a bit easier on everyone. Otherwise, you should seek out other options. Remember, medications should be used sparingly.
If you’ve decided that Rover can handle the trip, make sure you make all the proper arrangements.
How to travel with a pet by air
By Air
Air travel for dogs is not always a great idea. Though canines are not cargo to us pet parents, they are usually considered such by the airlines. The cargo hold does not make for a pleasant travel experience, even for relaxed dogs. This is not to say that flying is not an option, just that it is not ideal. Small dog owners are in luck, though. Some airlines will allow you to bring your pet in a carrier if it can fit under the seat in front of you. Learn thefiner details of air travel with dogs so you can be fully informed before you book a flight.
Pet-loving entrepreneurs have been developing pet-friendly airlines that may actually be affordable. One such company is Pet Airways, a pet-only (no human passengers) airline that allows pets to fly in the main cabin rather than cargo. However, these flights are only available in a limited number of cities. Until these types of airlines are more accessible, many of us will have to make do with the rules or scrape up the dough to charter a plane.
Early detection of illness starts with regular wellness examinations performed by the veterinarian. Your vet may recommend tests that can discover early organ dysfunction or metabolic disorders like Diabetes, Thyroid disease, or Cushing’s disease. Older pets will have their blood pressure checked and may have an ECG performed or an x-ray taken if a heart murmur is detected. Catching a problem before there are any obvious symptoms greatly improves the prognosis and may even be reversible. Symptoms mean there is damage already being done to the body. Be sure to discuss any changes in water consumption, appetite, eliminations, and activity levels with the doctor.
Prophylactic dental care is proven to greatly reduce referred infection from the oral cavity into the heart and major organ systems. As well as teeth brushing, your dog and cat should have a professional dental cleaning before periodontal disease becomes established. Ultrasonic scaling and high-speed polishing of the teeth removes bacteria harboring tartar that leads to infection, pain, and tooth loss.
Vaccines protect your pet from contagious disease. Around six weeks old, puppies and kittens lose their maternal antibodies that had kept them safe since birth. Vaccinations are started at this age and boostered every three weeks until 12 to 16 weeks old. The immune system is not fully developed until then, so complete protection may not be achieved with the initial vaccines. During adulthood, vaccinations are boostered every one to three years depending on the specific disease risk in your area and the efficacy of the vaccine.
Proper nutrition is very important in all stages of life. A balanced diet that is AAFCO approved (Association of American Feed Control Officials) will provide all the daily requirements of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that your pet needs to stay fit and healthy. Table scraps are not balanced and tend to be high in fat and salt. They only contribute to an overweight, picky eater. Your veterinarian will make recommendations as to the type of food that is best for your dog and cat.
Preventive medicine and wellness testing has proven to be of great benefit to people and pets. Avoiding disease in the first place is obviously superior to trying to reverse the course of illness when it occurs. Propernutrition, vaccination strategies, disease screening, and prophylactic care such as dental cleanings are all vital to ensuring good health and longevity. Routine preventive care is key to a better quality of life overall.
Disease prevention starts at a very young age. Puppies and kittens are very susceptible to contagious parasites and viruses. They should be tested and treated for worms and protozoa that invade the intestinal tract. Parasites can cause anemia and death in large numbers. Many take weeks to incubate and begin shedding eggs in the stool, so several fecal analyses should be performed during the first 16 weeks of age. Most of the intestinal parasites are not visible in the stool with the naked eye.
Traveling
Here are things you should know about taking your pet with you on your journey.
- Always make sure your pet is properly identified. Obtain identification with the address of your destination, as well.
- Whether going by plane, train, or automobile, train your pet to travel in his kennel. This invaluable training will make the entire traveling experience less stressful to the animal, whether across the country or across town.
- Make sure your kennel is the proper size for your animal. It should be large enough for your pet to stand and turn around in comfortably. Kennels should be properly labeled with "This end up" and "Live animal" stickers if traveling by plane.
- If traveling by car, try to keep your pet on the same potty "schedule" that it is on at home. Stop only when you would normally let your animal out.
- Never leave your pet unattended in your vehicle or in the airport.
- If traveling by plane, book direct non-stop flights. Inform flight attendants that you have a pet in cargo, if it is unable to be in the cabin with you.
- As a general rule, puppies and kittens, sick animals, animals in heat, and frail or pregnant animals should not travel by air. Animals that are "pug-nosed" should not fly in the cargo area of a plane. If your animal is too large to fly in the cabin with you, perhaps a stay at the boarding kennel would be a safer choice.
- Bring copies of vaccination records with you, as you never know when you might need them. Health certificates are generally required to fly with an animal on an airline.
- Plan well in advance. Some states have strict regulations on traveling with pets. Don't be caught at the last minute. Boarding kennels fill quickly during the high-travel holiday season, so it may be difficult to find a vacancy at the last minute.
Spaying / Neutering
Spaying is a general term used to describe the ovariohysterectomy of a female animal. Neutering is a general term used to describe the castration of a male animal. However, neutering is often used in reference to both genders. The surgical procedure, performed by a veterinarian, renders the animal incapable of reproducing. Here are answers to some questions you may have about this beneficial procedure.
When can I have this procedure done?
Both procedures can safely be performed at as early as 8 weeks of age. American Humane Association is a strong proponent of juvenile or pediatric spay/neuter since it is both healthy for pets and effectively reduces pet overpopulation.
Why should I have my pet neutered?
Animal shelters, both public and private, are faced with an incredible burden: What to do with the overpopulation of dogs and cats that they cannot find homes for? Approximately 3.7 million animals are euthanized at shelters each year, due to the sheer fact that there are not enough willing adopters. Having your pet spayed or neutered ensures that you will not be adding to this tremendous burden.
What are some of the health and behavioral benefits?
Through neutering, you can help your dog or cat live a happier, healthier, longer life. Spaying eliminates the constant crying and nervous pacing of a female cat in heat. Spaying a female dog also eliminates the messiness associated with the heat cycle.
Neutering of male dogs and cats can prevent certain undesirable sexual behaviors, such as urine marking, humping, male aggression and the urge to roam. If you have more than one pet in your household, all the pets will generally get along better if they are neutered.
A long-term benefit of spaying and neutering is improved health for both cats and dogs. Spaying females prior to their first heat cycle nearly eliminates the risk of breast cancer and totally prevents uterine infections and uterine cancer. Neutering males prevents testicular cancer and enlargement of the prostate gland, and greatly reduces their risk for perianal tumors
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Ten Steps to Your Dog’s Dental Health
Did you know that regularly brushing your dog’s teeth and providing her with a healthy diet and plenty of chew toys can go a long way toward keeping her mouth healthy? Many pooches show signs of gum disease by the time they’re four years old because they aren’t provided with proper mouth care—and bad breath is often the first sign of a problem. Give your dog regular home checks and follow the tips below, and you’ll have a very contented pooch with a dazzling smile.
1. The Breath Test
Sniff your dog’s breath. Not a field of lilies? That’s okay—normal doggie-breath isn’t particularly fresh-smelling. However, if his breath is especially offensive and is accompanied by a loss of appetite, vomiting or excessive drinking or urinating, it’s a good idea to take your pooch to the vet.
2. Lip Service
Once a week, with your dog facing you, lift his lips and examine his gums and teeth. The gums should be pink, not white or red, and should show no signs of swelling. His teeth should be clean, without any brownish tartar.
3. Signs of Oral Disease
The following are signs that your dog may have a problem in his mouth or gastrointestinal system and should be checked by a veterinarian:
- Bad breath
- Excessive drooling
- Inflamed gums
- Tumors in the gums
- Cysts under the tongue
- Loose teeth
4. The Lowdown on Tooth Decay
Bacteria and plaque-forming foods can cause build-up on a dog’s teeth. This can harden into tartar, possibly causing gingivitis, receding gums and tooth loss. One solution? Regular teeth cleanings, of course.
5. Canine Tooth-Brushing Kit
Get yourself a toothbrush made especially for canines or a clean piece of soft gauze to wrap around your finger. Ask your vet for a toothpaste made especially for canines or make a paste out of baking soda and water. Never use fluoride with dogs under six months of age—it can interfere with their enamel formation. And please do not use human toothpaste, which can irritate a dog’s stomach. Special mouthwash for dogs is also available—ask your vet.
6. Brightening the Pearly Whites
Taking these steps will make brushing a lot easier for the both of you:
- First get your dog used to the idea of having her teeth brushed. Massage her lips with your finger in a circular motion for 30 to 60 seconds once or twice a day for a few weeks. Then move on to her teeth and gums.
- When your pooch seems comfortable being touched this way, put a little bit of dog-formulated toothpaste or a paste of baking soda and water on her lips to get her used to the taste.
- Next, introduce a toothbrush designed especially for dogs—it should be smaller than a human toothbrush and have softer bristles. Toothbrushes that you can wear over your finger (or a clean piece of gauze) are also available and allow you to give a nice massage to your dog’s gums.
- Finally, apply the toothpaste to her teeth for a gentle brushing, as in step 7.
- A veterinary exam beforehand may be helpful to find out if your dog’s gums are inflamed. If your dog has mild gingivitis, brushing too hard can hurt her gums.
7. Brushing Technique
Yes, there is actually a technique! Place the brush or your gauze-wrapped finger at a 45-degree angle to the teeth and clean in small, circular motions. Work on one area of your dog’s mouth at a time, lifting her lip as necessary. The side of the tooth that touches the cheek usually has the most tartar, and giving a final downward stroke can help to remove it. If your dog resists having the inner surfaces of her teeth cleaned, don’t fight it—only a small amount of tartar accumulates there. Once you get the technique down, go for a brushing two or three times a week.
8. Know Your Mouth Disorders
Getting familiar with the possible mouth problems your dog may encounter will help you determine when it’s time to see a vet about treatment:
- Periodontal disease is a painful infection between the tooth and the gum that can result in tooth loss and spread infection to the rest of the body. Signs are loose teeth, bad breath, tooth pain, sneezing and nasal discharge.
- Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused mainly by accumulation of plaque, tartar and disease-producing bacteria above and below the gum line. Signs include bleeding, red, swollen gums and bad breath. It is reversible with regular teeth cleanings.
- Halitosis—or bad breath—can be the first sign of a mouth problem and is caused by bacteria growing from food particles caught between the teeth or by gum infection. Regular tooth-brushings are a great solution.
- Swollen gums develop when tartar builds up and food gets stuck between the teeth. Regularly brushing your dog’s teeth at home and getting annual cleanings at the vet can prevent tartar and gingivitis.
- Proliferating gum disease occurs when the gum grows over the teeth and must be treated to avoid gum infection. An inherited condition common to boxers and bull terriers, it can be treated with antibiotics.
- Mouth tumors appear as lumps in the gums. Some are malignant and must be surgically removed.
- Salivary cysts look like large, fluid-filled blisters under the tongue, but can also develop near the corners of the jaw. They require drainage, and the damaged saliva gland must be removed.
- Canine distemper teeth can occur if a dog had distemper as a puppy. Adult teeth can appear looking eroded and can often decay. As damage is permanent, decayed teeth should be removed by a vet.
9. Chew on This
chew toys can satisfy your dog’s natural desire to chomp, while making his teeth strong. Gnawing on a chew toy can also help massage his gums and help keep his teeth clean by scraping away soft tartar. Ask your vet to recommend toxin-free rawhide, nylon and rubber chew toys.
P.S.: Gnawing also reduces your dog’s overall stress level, prevents boredom and gives him an appropriate outlet for his natural need to chew.
10. Diet for Healthy Teeth
Ask your vet about a specially formulated dry food that can slow down the formation of plaque and tartar. Also, avoid feeding your dog table scraps, instead giving him treats that are specially formulated to keep canine teeth healthy.
Sick Dog Symptoms: Signs Your Dog Is Sick
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Sometimes when your dog is under the weather, the signs are crystal clear. Other times, the symptoms are subtle and can be overlooked. Here are some signals related to eating patterns, energy levels, physical and behavioral variations, and mood changes that could indicate your dog is ill.
It may not always be easy to tell when your dog is ill. Hiding illness is a dog's survival instinct held over from the days before domestication: being sick meant being removed from the pack. Remember you are your dog's pack leader, so dogs can be stoic when they're not feeling well.
Changes in eating patterns
Dogs may occasionally experience a minor virus or digestive problem that will cause a day or two of waning appetite. A change in eating habits could otherwise be a sign of a serious problem. If the following behaviors persist or change dramatically in a short period of time, contact your veterinarian.- Eating far less than usual, or seeming uninterested in eating altogether
- Exhibiting finicky eating habits when she normally eats heartily
- Suddenly demonstrating an insatiable appetite
- Vomiting after eating
Changes in energy levels
Just like their human pals, dogs’ energy levels increase or decrease daily depending on factors such as weather or activity. Contact your vet if your dog displays these characteristics over a period of several days:- Sleeping more than usual
- Acting lethargic
- Seeming indifferent to activities he’d normally enjoy, such as fetching a ball or going for a walk
- Acting restlessly or paces
Other physical and behavioral symptoms
There are too many possible physical and behavioral indications to list, but there are telltale signs of sickness in your canine:- Watery or sunken eyes
- Tripping or loss of balance
- Urinating in the house or other place where she’d normally not
- Rapid weight loss or gain
- Ear discharge or odor
- Frequent and irregular bowel movements (diarrhea)
- Lack of bowel movements
- Panting throughout the day, especially when trying to go to sleep
- Coughing
- Drinking water excessively
Mood changes
A dog who is usually very outgoing but suddenly begins loafing in a corner of the house may be feeling down and out. Likewise, a dog who is normally friendly and gentle with children may show aggression when illness strikes.If you suspect your dog is sick, call your veterinarian for an appointment. And remember: you know your dog better than anyone. If none of the above symptoms apply to your dog but your instincts tell you something isn’t right, have him checked out anyway. The resulting peace of mind will make everyone feel better!
Common Cancers in Cats
 Cancerous
tumors are masses of tissue that result when cells divide more rapidly
than normal, or do not die when they should. Because tumors can develop
from any tissue type, there are many types of tumors in many locations.
As a cat owner, having the information about the tumor type and behavior
can help you obtain the best treatment options to provide the greatest
quality of life and longevity for your cat. You should always check in
with your family veterinarian if you find a new mass or swelling on your
cat. Many times your veterinarian can provide treatment at their clinic
and other times they may refer you to a veterinary oncologist who
specializes in the treatment of cancer.There are three primary ways in which cancers may be treated in cats. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these treatments may be recommended in a treatment plan. Because different tumors respond differently to each type of treatment, it is crucial that an accurate diagnosis and stage of advancement, determining what other organs are involved, be made by your veterinarian. This usually involves taking small samples of the tumor, either with a needle or a biopsy instrument, and sending the samples to a laboratory for analysis. Your veterinarian can then inform you if the growth is benign or malignant and whether further treatment is recommended. Some tumors may be cured by surgery alone. Others are more responsive to chemotherapy, which are drugs administered either by injection or orally. Radiation therapy is a third way to treat tumor cells that are sensitive this type of treatment. Radiation is often combined with other treatments, such surgery. Chemotherapy drugs work by damaging rapidly dividing cancer cells while sparing normal cells. Because of this, normal tissues that also rapidly divide, such as those found in the intestine, bone marrow, and hair, can be transiently affected by chemotherapy. Many owners hesitate to pursue chemotherapy in their cats based on their knowledge of side effects in human cancer patients. It is important to remember that chemotherapy protocols are very different for cats. Veterinary oncologists have a different goal, which is to provide a good quality of life with minimal side effects. For this reason the doses of chemotherapy are lower in cats than in people and side effects are much less common. Should side effects occur, the drug doses are lowered for future treatments. Below is some information on clinical signs, tumor behavior, diagnostic tests, and treatment options for the most common cancers seen in cats.  LymphomaFeline lymphoma, or lymphosarcoma, is one of the most common tumors seen in cats. There is a strong association between a cat being infected with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and the development of lymphoma. When a cat develops lymphoma, the lymphocyte, which is a cell of the normal immune system, becomes cancerous and can affect multiple areas of the body. Because of the potential for widespread infection, feline lymphoma is often divided into several forms. These include:
If your cat is diagnosed with lymphoma, your veterinarian will recommend several tests including x-rays, urinalysis, complete blood count, chemistry profile and possibly an ultrasound. These tests provide the information for staging the tumor. Staging provides your veterinarian with the necessary information to determine the extent of the disease and the long term outlook, or prognosis, for your cat. Treatment is generally combination chemotherapy using multiple drugs on a rotating schedule. Some of these drugs are given by injection in the hospital setting and others orally at home. Nasal lymphoma is the exception, in which radiation therapy may also be recommended in addition to chemotherapy. Squamous Cell CarcinomaSquamous cell carcinoma is a cancer that frequently develops on areas that are non-pigmented or lightly pigmented in the cat. This is similar to the development of skin tumors in pale-skinned people. In the cat, these areas tend to be on the tips of the ears (pinnae), the nasal areas, and eyelids. Squamous cell carcinoma represents 15% of all skin tumors in the cat.Cats with frequent sun exposure may first develop a condition called solar dermatitis (actinic dermatitis) in areas that are lightly pigmented. This may show as pink areas of skin with some scaling. If your cat is diagnosed with this condition, your veterinarian will recommend sun restriction and application of a water-based sun screen on the affected area twice daily. If the condition worsens, the skin may develop more of a cauliflower-type growth and have open or ulcerated wounds that can bleed. At this stage, your veterinarian will recommend biopsy of the area to determine if cancer, likely squamous cell carcinoma, is developing. The severity of squamous cell carcinoma is often dependent on how quickly treatment is administered so seeking help for your cat as soon as signs develop is strongly recommended. The tumors can spread locally affecting adjacent tissues but long term, if left untreated, can spread to distant areas like lymph nodes or lung tissue. Treatment is dependent on the areas involved, but usually starts with surgical removal of the tumor. This works well on areas such as the ears but can be tricky with other locations such as nasal areas or eyelids. Your veterinarian will likely refer you to a surgical or cancer specialist (veterinary oncologist) for all treatment options. Such options include radiation therapy, cryotherapy, laser therapy, and photodynamic therapy. Soft Tissue SarcomasSarcomas are a large group of tumors that all originate from structural and connective tissues. They go by many names, including fibrosarcoma and vaccine-associated sarcoma, but are similar in their behavior and treatment. Although sarcomas are not a new type of tumor, there has been increased research recently by the veterinary community. In 1991 veterinarians noticed a huge increase in the incidence of soft tissue sarcomas at the site of vaccinations (such as on the rear limbs or between the shoulder blades). A task force was created that has done much work to make vaccines safer and recommend alternative sites for vaccine administration. Today veterinarians generally administer vaccines lower on the hind limbs and instruct owners to monitor the site for development of masses at the site to catch any tumor growth early.Sarcomas tend to spread locally by invading adjacent tissues via finger-like projections under the skin. As an owner, you may notice a small, firm mass on or under your cat’s skin, but beneath the surface this tumor may have reached areas three centimeters from what you can see or feel. If caught early, sarcomas do not usually spread to distant areas, and have only an 11-20% reported metastatic rate. Treatment for soft tissue sarcomas depends on tumor size and location. The best outcome for your cat is to catch a tumor early and have aggressive surgery performed. Depending on the area affected and size of the tumor, your veterinarian may refer you to a surgical specialist because often deep and extensive tissue (including muscle and bone) has to be removed for complete cure. Occasionally radiation therapy may be recommended either before or after surgery if there has been extensive spread of disease. If the tumor is not completely removed, the chance of regrowth is high with one study reporting average time of regrowth being three months after surgery. Chemotherapy is rarely recommended in treatment plans for sarcomas. Mammary Gland CarcinomasMammary tumors are most commonly diagnosed in older cats between 10 and 14 years of age. Unlike other species, the feline mammary tumor is very aggressive, with 80-90% of all tumors found to be malignant. For this reason, the prognosis for cats diagnosed with a mammary tumor is usually poor.Mammary carcinomas tend to be locally invasive, meaning they spread into adjacent tissues. They also have the potential to spread to distant sites or metastasize. Strategies for treatment are aimed at local control (surgery) and distant control (chemotherapy). Your veterinarian will initially recommend removal of the tumor with a surgery called a radical mastectomy. Depending on the outcome of the surgery and the biopsy results, you may also be advised to consider chemotherapy following surgery. Prognosis for mammary gland carcinomas depends on the size of the tumor at diagnosis as well as the biopsy results or tumor grade. Tumors that are greater than 3 centimeters in size are often associated with survival times of 6 months, while tumors less than 2 centimeters often afford survival times of 3 years after surgery. According to an article on the American College for Veterinary Surgeons: Cats spayed before 6 months of age have a 7-times reduced risk of developing mammary cancer, and spaying at any age reduces the risk of mammary tumors by 40% to 60% in cats. (http://www.acvs.org/AnimalOwners/HealthConditions/SmallAnimalTopics/MammaryTumorsinCatsandDogs/) |
Exercise Is A Very Important Part Of Keeping Your Dog Healthy
It keeps
his muscles, heart, lungs and bones strong and healthy. A healthy dog will
live longer and has less chance of becoming ill.
It is also fun for your dog. It gives you an opportunity to spend time with him and he will love you for it! There are many different games you can play with your dog to keep him fit:
It is also fun for your dog. It gives you an opportunity to spend time with him and he will love you for it! There are many different games you can play with your dog to keep him fit:
-
Fetch
-
Frisbee
-
Hide and seek
are some of the
more popular ones.
Exercising and playing with your dog also gives him something to do and
will keep him happy. Remember - A bored dog is far more likely to get up
to mischief, and perhaps find a nice pair of YOUR shoes to start chewing!
Walking is one of the easiest exercises to do and benefits both you
and your dog. It also satisfies his natural need to explore his surroundings and introduces him to new sights and sounds.
and your dog. It also satisfies his natural need to explore his surroundings and introduces him to new sights and sounds.
Some dogs are afraid of water, but others really enjoy it. Swimming can be
a great way to exercise your dog and will help keep him cool during those
hot summer days.
Dog + drinking sea water = messy accident
NB: If you take your dog to the beach
be sure to bring some drinking water along with you. Sea
water is not good for you to drink and the same is true for your dog. You wouldn't
want him being sick in your car on the way home!
Ten Things All Pet Owners Should Know
Article By
Steph Bairey
Following these
ten tips will guarantee you a happy, healthy relationship with any kind of
pet.
1. Your pet needs to go to the vet. Start saving now.
Every pet needs to be examined by a vet occasionally. Illnesses that are caught early are often treatable, and regular vet exams are your best weapon. Even the healthiest pet may have an accident, calling for immediate emergency care. Older pets may be in pain from age-related deterioration. Face it, you're going to have to take your pet to the vet sooner or later. Be prepared to pay for it!
2. You're the human, you set the rules.
Don't let your pet boss you around. Decide on the rules, and enforce them consistently. Don't let your pet get his way if it goes against the rules -- he'll just try that much harder the next time. Animals may not seem to have long memories, but they sure remember how they got their own way the last time!
3. Animals love a boring routine.
Pets want to know what to expect -- it makes them feel secure. Yours will be happiest if they are fed at the same time every day, sleep in the same spot at night, and can count on you to always come home at a certain time. They'll get by if the routine occasionally changes, but keeping their day predictable keeps them predictable, and happy.
4. Good food and lots of exercise equals a long life.
We all know we should eat healthy foods in moderation and get plenty of exercise. The same goes for our pets. Healthy living prevents illness, and you won't have to see the vet as often! If a small pet is confined to a cage, give it lots of space and things to climb on or explore, to encourage exercise. Reserve treats like dog biscuits or table scraps for very special occasions.
5. Everything ends up in their mouths.
To you it's an electrical cord, but to your dog, it's a chew toy. Keep in mind that your pets will chew on anything, and keep dangerous items out of reach! Encourage them to chew on toys instead by providing lots of them, especially new ones once the old ones have lost their appeal.
6. Bacteria do not make good pets.
A clean environment keeps everyone happy and healthy. Pets are dirty, and need lots of cleaning. On a weekly basis, brush your dog's teeth, wash out the gerbil's water bottle, and scoop out the cat's litter box! If you don't, you're in for bacterial and parasitic infections, painful tooth decay, and the smell...!
7. Tight security saves lives.
Keep your pet confined safely. Escape-proof all cages and fences, walk your dog on a leash, and keep your cat indoors. The outside world is full of speeding cars, unfamiliar animals, pesticides, and even pet thieves. Just in case, make certain all dogs and cats have sturdy collars with tags, or have been tattooed or micro-chipped.
8. There are too many homeless animals already.
Lost pets without tags usually end up being put to sleep at the shelter when they lose their way home. Even worse off are the pets who never had homes to begin with. There aren't enough good homes for all the animals out there, so have your pets spayed or neutered, and do not allow them to breed! In America alone, four million cats and dogs are put down every year. That's far too many! If you want another pet, consider adoption instead.
9. When in doubt, look to nature.
When confronted with a pet problem, find out how your pet would have lived in the wild. Need to know how warm your frog's tank should be? Research his natural habitat and try to copy it. Want to keep your dogs from fighting? Read up on pack behavior in the wild. Our pets evolved to live in the wild, and by understanding their natural environment, needs, and social behavior, we can help them live with us more comfortably.
10. It all depends on you.
Ultimately, when you accepted this animal as a pet, you agreed to take care of him. This means feeding, habitat, health, safety... you are responsible for it all. It takes a lot of time and money to care for a pet properly. However, it is certainly worth it! There are over 100 million households worldwide with at least one pet, and they can't all be wrong! Take care of your pets, so you can have a long, enjoyable life together.
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