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Friday, October 20, 2006
Ringworm In Cats…Can People Be At Risk?
This skin infection is not a worm at all. Ringworm is a fungus that resides in people and other animals. The lesion is typically round and dry in the center with a reddish boundary. Thick and crusty gray scabs cover the surface with hair falling out in pets. The animal may not scratch the area because it is sore. Ringworm ranges in size from small to several inches. Ringworm is cause by several different fungi. Ringworm does not spread, and is found frequently found on cats, others on dogs or people.
All animals including cats normally have fungi and many different types on the surface of the skin. Ringworm infections occur in pet owners both young and old. People are more likely to catch Ringworm form other people rather that pets. Ringworm is not normal in animals; people are more likely to acquire this from other people.
by: Ralph J. Steckel
Are Colds Passed Between People And Pets?
The common cold (upper respiratory infection) is caused by many viruses in our universe. Most of these are gone in the matter of course. Pets as well get upper virus conditions that affect them. Most of these are of little concern. Many of these pets need a vaccination shot once per year may prevent infections, and should be in the Vet's cycle of exam for shots every year.
These virus colds being transferred to humans are rare to speak of, however, Bacteria symptoms are less choosy about where they settle. This process can be possible to be transmitted; however it is unlikely
by: Ralph J. Steckel
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Monday, October 16, 2006
Top 10 Reasons For Vet Visits
A top vet insurer has posted the top medical conditions that cat owners
claim. For the second year in a row, Urinary Tract Infections demanded the
highest attention. Pet Ecology Brands answers the easiest way to help
identify these conditions and reduce the pain both in the cat and
financially. Cats are living much longer than their kidneys may provide.
Another Pet Ecology's item on the list is the Diabetes Cat Litter Indicator
listed as number 6 on the scale. Pets need products for health just like
humans. Their pain and suffering is the top concern for the vet to
consider.
1. Urinary Track Infections
2. Stomach Upsets
3. Kidney Disease
4. Skin Allergies
5. Respiratory Infections
6. Diabetes
7. Ear Infections
8. Colitis
9. Eye Infections
10. Wound Infections
So the next time you need to check your pet, remember to be aware of the top
10 vet visits
by: Ralph J. Steckel
Calcium In Your Cat
Although calcium oxalate has been on the increase in cats for the past two decades, it has been shifted over to the dietary strategy to control struvite urlithiasis. Calcium Oxalate data controls are manifested in diet, lifestyle, genetic, and gender differences. Calcium Oxalate is common in cats.
Calcium Oxalate shows an increased presents with heavy volume, frequent urination contributes to the likelihood of crystal formation and aggregation.
Research on calcium oxalate and the use of acidifying diets demonstrate that urinary pH of 5.80 to 6.81 did not increase the risk of calcium formation under these conditions.
Scientific Cat Litter Acid reading early warning gives a heads up feature on the best way to regulate calcium oxalate in cats. This cat litter is available to all thru Doctors and Vet clinics only, but the role played in monitoring is vital to the health of your cat.
One must control the urinary pH and dietary precursors to help minimize the pH levels to reduce the risk of calcium oxalate formation in felines.
by: Ralph J. Steckel |
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Friday, April 21, 2006
When Your Cat Bites
Cats have sharp teeth, go ahead have a look in your favorite feline's mouth and check out those pearly whites. No matter how docile or well mannered your kitty is, if she's frightened, you could suffer a cat bite and those teeth can do some damage, especially if you are bitten on a joint, such as a finger.
Most cat bites are puncture wounds. If a cat bites you and the wound bleeds out quite a lot, count your blessings. It will look bad but that blood is carrying a lot of dirt and bacteria that is resident in your cat's mouth, out of your wound. However, if it is like the majority of cat bites, clean the wound immediately with an anti-bacterial cleanser, Hibacleanse is a great product. Then apply a good triple antibiotic ointment.
Watch your cat bite carefully. If it appears red, tender and swollen after 12 hours, make an appointment with your doctor to rule out an infection setting up or a staph infection. Cat saliva has a staph bacterium occurring naturally and staph infections are a grand possibility.
If you're cat is in a bad situation where he or she is frightened or hurt, wear heavy gloves until you can get your cat into a secure situation where you are not likely to be bitten. If you don't have gloves handy, a heavy towel will sometimes be enough to protect you. If a cat you do not know bites you, seek medical attention immediately. Rabies, while not found often in cats, is found and you could be exposed.
These tips will help you deal with the unfortunately event of a cat bite and help you avoid infection.
by: Ralph J. Steckel |
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Thursday, April 13, 2006
Introducing Your New Kitten
Congratulations on your new family member. Your resident cat may not be as thrilled as you are with your bumbling ball of fluff, but there are some things you can do to make the acceptance of your new kitten happen a little faster.
When you bring home your new kitten, don't just plop him in front of your resident cat and expect everyone to get along. It sounds good but it will probably result in hissing, growling and your kitten getting batted with a paw before your resident cat stomps off to go sulk. Instead, remember that cats enjoy stalking, hunting and viewing from safe distances. This can work with adding a kitten to your household as well. Try to do this on a long weekend or when you're on vacation from work so you can be home to supervise the process. Normally you'll see signs of the cats accepting each other within 2 days.
Put you kitten in a separate room with his own food and litter box. Your cat won't be too receptive about sharing either food dishes or bathroom facilities at this point anyway. Give your resident cat lots of extra attention and let the kitten settle in. Then after a day, leave the door open to the room you have the kitten in. Your kitten will be too busy exploring to come racing out and your resident cat will be curious enough to go view the kitten. They might touch noses and there will be some hissing but a lot of the aggression will be dropped and those are the first signs of acceptance.
You can usually introduce the kitten to the main litter box at this point without incident; however keep the food bowls separated. Many cats have territorial issues with their food and make that the last area they share. Continue giving your resident cat extra attention and of course, play like crazy with your kitten. As with all babies, they need lots of attention and all play is learning.
Using this easy method, it can be no problem adding a new kitten to you household - enjoy your new family member!
by: Ralph J. Steckel |
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Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Can You Give Your Cat Tylenol?
The answer to the question of giving your cat Tylenol is a giant NO!!!! If anyone has ever mentioned a pain solution for your cat such as Tylenol, then they are severely misinformed. This type of a pain reliever, although it may be perfectly safe for humans to consume, it is very toxic and even deadly to your cats if they ingest it.
Studies have shown that both acetaminophen, which is found in Tylenol, and ibuprofen are both very dangerous to cats and could cause fatal problems. When you are looking to give your cat it is always best to consult your veterinarian first. Even if you do not have the time or the funds to bring your cat in to see the vet, it would not hurt to give call in to find out what is safe for him or her to have.
Some people have gotten a bit confused when it comes to giving pain relievers to their cats for such problems as lameness and arthritis. This usually happens because Tylenol, in safe and measured doses, can be given to most dogs for such arthritis relief. You must be aware that cats and dogs are very different animals. The cat has quite a different metabolism and their system cannot take Tylenol at all.
The bottom line is, unless you are a veterinarian, you should never be medicating your pets at home. You do not have the knowledge that is necessary to safely prescribe any type of regimen such as Tylenol for your cat.
by: Ralph J. Steckel |
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Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Signs Your Cat is Healthy
Each cat is individual. What applies to one cat will not apply to another usually. Some cats are naturally grumpy everyday and others are only grumpy when they are feeling under the weather. Watching the cat you know for subtle changes is one of the earliest indicators of illness. Here are some signs to watch your cat for in order to tell when he or she might be feeling under the weather.
How is Your Cat Acting?
If you normally bouncing-off-the -walls cat is acting lethargic or out of energy. Watch your cat carefully. He may just be having an "off" day or he might be getting ill. Be on the lookout for balance problems and your cat's gait when he walks. All are giveaways to how he is feeling.
Your Cat's Coat
Your cat's fur is a good barometer as to his overall healthy. Unhealthy cats have lackluster coats and other fur related problems such as bald patches, skin redness, and dry coarse fur. These can be signs of allergy, fleas and/or worms or other malady
Eyes are the Window to Good Health
Look into your cat's eyes. If they are not clear and bright. Have your cat looked at by a vet. If the cat won't open his third eyelid, it can be a sign of a physical ailment.
Check the Ears, Nose and Mouth
Your cat's ears should be clean and without brown patches If you have a peek inside your cat's ear and you see brown patches - he probably has ear mites. Also if you notice a smell, get your cat checked. He could have an infection. Your cat's nose should be velvety and without any discharge. Cat's noses can be moist from time to time - that is normal. The mouth of your cat should be free from odor; bad odor can indicate bad teeth or an abscess.
These are just some basics you can watch your cat for and you will get an early indicator if your favorite feline is feeling under the weather.
by: Ralph J. Steckel |
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Monday, April 10, 2006
What is the Best Age To Get Your Child a Cat or Dog?
Easter is a time of year when many people purchase their child a new puppy or kitten. This is great for the child and not so great for the pet in many cases. Many children are ill equipped to deal with the responsibilities of caring for a pet and like any baby, kittens and puppies need a lot of extra care, attention, and gentle handling.
There are children who are ready at the age of 8 to handle responsibilities such as cleaning up after their pet, remembering to feed and keeping fresh, clean water around as well as gentle play and exercising their pets. And there are children who at the age of 12-years of age, aren't ready for the responsibility.
Take an objective look at your own child; does he or she keep their room clean without asking? Does your child play well with other children? Are there any signs of aggression in your child that might result in the pet getting hurt? Does your child have time for a pet or are their days and weekends taken up with extra-curricular activities such as clubs and sports?
If your child has never had a pet before, explain that pets require a lot of care and attention or much like people they get lonely and start acting out. Acting out for a pet may include aggression, destroying items that belong to the family such as shoes and clothing or going to the bathroom in very obvious places that will be noticed and quickly!
If you can see your child is ready for a pet, check out your local ASCPA and get an older dog or cat, they need homes, are usually housebroken and most make fine and loyal companions for your child and family.
by: Ralph J. Steckel |
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Friday, April 07, 2006
Reasons Your Pet Might Be Limping
If your pet is like most, he or she is probably really active. Pets who always run around, play and get exercise can be more prone to certain accidents that may cause them to limp or seem to be a bit lame when they are walking around. However, there could be a bit more to why your pet is limping. It is always a good thing to know some of the things to check for so that you can be sure that there is not anything else that is wrong with your pet.
You could get started by checking your pet on all of their paws. If your pet goes outside frequently, there is a chance that he or she could have something sticking into one of their paws. When you find something, whether it be a spur or even a piece of glass, it is always a great idea to soak the injured paw on several different occasions so that you can be sure to prevent possible infection.
If you do not notice any problem with any of the paws, you should then try to wait a bit and see if your pet may have just pulled something while running or playing. Try to get them to rest for a few days so you can at least see if gets better after a little bit of time. If your pet does not seem to show any signs of improvement and is still limping after more than a week or so, you should then think about taking he or she to the veterinarian so you can rule out any other possibly harmful problems if they are left untreated.
by: Ralph J. Steckel |
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Thursday, April 06, 2006
Emergency Situation: Your Pet Has Been Hit By A Car
Unfortunately, when you have pets, you always run the risk of them going out into the road and being hit by a car. Sometimes, this tragic event can even happen within your own driveway. A number of pets that get hit by a car will actually get hit within just a mile or so radius from their home. Wherever your pet does get hit by a car, it is very important that you bring he or she to the veterinarian as soon as you possibly can.
Though it can be quite devastating, you may actually even be close by and either hear or witness your pet getting hit by a car. Sometimes, even if the initial impact does not seem to be that bad, your pet could have a range of injuries due to the hit. Bringing your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible could mean the difference between life and death when it comes to treating internal injuries and other problems that you may not be able to notice yourself.
If the accident with your pet happens after the office hours of your local vet, still go ahead and call in. Most veterinarian's will have a number that you can call in case of an emergency or possibly even give their home phone so you can reach them. Although this can be a very heart wrenching situation to deal with, it is super important that you remain as calm as you possibly can so that you can help soothe your injured pet until they can reach medical attention. Your pet getting hit by a car is a disturbing and sad event that must be attended to immediately if you would like to try and save your pet's life.
by: Ralph J. Steckel |
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Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Emergency Situation: Your Pet Has Eaten Anti-Freeze
When you feel as though your pet may have ingested anti-freeze it is extremely important that you bring he or she to the veterinarian immediately so that they can be checked out. Accidental anti-freeze ingestion is actually known to be one of the leading causes of death in many small animals. Many of these cases of what is called acute anti-freeze poisoning are found in the colder regions of the world, due to the higher use of the product.
Unfortunately, one of the reasons why pets seem to be drawn to anti-freeze is that it can be a bit sweet to the taste. It does not even take much of this common product to kill an animal. Studies have shown that only takes approximately 1/4 teaspoon or less to kill a cat and only about 1/2 teaspoon to kill a dog. The worst part is, those figures are on a per pound basis, so you can see how it only takes the tiniest of amounts to have a very deadly outcome.
Basically, what the consumption of anti-freeze will do is begin to cause severe renal kidney failure. When it comes to signs or symptoms, you may notice that your pet is acting dizzy, vomiting, and even acting as though they are disoriented. This is a terrible blow of toxins for any system to take, and there are even children who die of anti-freeze poisoning every year.
Your veterinarian may or may not be able to ensure that they can save your pet. However, it is very important that you do bring your pet in so that treatments may be started immediately. Sometimes if this sort of poisoning is found early enough, your veterinarian may be able to flush his or her system and help them on the road to recovery.
by: Ralph J. Steckel |
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Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Signs Of Deafness In Your Pet
You love your pet and you like to make sure that he or she is healthy and happy at all times. However, what happens if you find yourself wondering if your beloved pet is going deaf. Unfortunately, hearing loss is something that can happen with pets just as often as it does with humans. In order to treat such a problem, you first must try to find out just what level of deafness you may be dealing with.
One thing that you need to understand is that your pet may end up suffering from either complete or partial deafness. Unfortunately, this complete or partial deafness may end up being a either a temporary or permanent condition. Most of the time, your pet will become stricken with certain levels of deafness depending on their age, just as with human beings. You may also find that your pet can become deaf on a certain level due to the problem of chronic ear infections.
If you suspect that your pet is having some problems with his or her hearing, you should bring them to a veterinarian so that they can get checked out in a proper manner. Your vet will be able to determine if the deafness is just due to a certain level of infection in the ears or if this is some sort of a problem due to age. Luckily, if you do find out that your pet is suffering from deafness due to some sort of infection or illness, the chances are very good that hearing could be restored with a good amount of treatment.
by: Ralph J. Steckel |
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It's Good for the Environment!
Pet Ecology Perfect Litter™ “Alert” does not contribute to the destruction of our landfills currently posed by clay based litters
Each year billions upon billions of pounds of clay-based litter enters our landfills and expand up to 15 times its original size. Pet Ecology Perfect Litter™ “Alert” is 100% earth friendly, natural and bio-degradable making it safe for you, your pet and the environment.
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