Obesity in animal companions is a serious and increasing health hazard. However, weight management by the veterinary staff can help overweight patients live longer, healthier lives. Excess weight may worsen or sensitize cats and dogs to major medical consequences as well as influence longevity and quality of life.
Does my pet’s weight seem healthy?
Most importantly, be open and honest about your pet’s weight with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may evaluate the weight and general health of your pet and offer advice on diet, exercise, and weight management.
Your veterinarian can also show you how to examine your pet’s body structure and feel certain body components to determine how healthy its body is. A healthy body composition is more important than a single figure on a scale when determining weight.
Is it beneficial for my pet to maintain a healthy weight?
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces your pet’s risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, respiratory illnesses, kidney problems, and some types of cancer. A reduction in weight may also reduce muscle, bone, and joint injuries caused by obesity. You can control arthritis pain by keeping your pet healthy. Maintaining a healthy weight gives your pet the best chance of living a longer, healthier, and pain-free life because excess weight can cut their life expectancy by more than two years.
What should I do if my pet is overweight?
There is no one-size-fits-all strategy or magic cure to help your pet lose extra weight, which should come as no surprise. Not all pets will respond well to the same treatment. A healthier lifestyle that strikes a balance between the calories taken and the calories expended by the body during typical activities and functions is necessary to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. The risk of serious illnesses in your pet might be dramatically decreased, even with a small weight loss. A simple weight loss method involves reducing your pet’s calorie intake and increasing their activity level. Do not rush. A pet’s weight loss typically takes longer than its weight gain.
Prioritize your pet.
Make an honest evaluation of your pet’s health and weight in collaboration with your veterinarian. Does your pet suffer from any health issues that have been exacerbated or caused by being overweight? Weight gain can result in a number of health issues or diseases for pets. How can you minimize the risk? Think about your pet’s health and longevity instead of anything else.
There is nothing personal about it
The truthful evaluation of your pet’s weight and health by your veterinarian isn’t an indictment or evaluation of your weight or state of health or a claim about your capacity to care for your pet. Consult your doctor if you’re considering adopting a healthier lifestyle for yourself. Your veterinarian is committed to your pet’s health and is acting in the best interests of your pet. The well-being of your pet is more important than yours.
Commit to your family
The entire family must be committed to helping your pet lose weight and keep it off. A weight reduction plan won’t work if one member of the family feeds your pet more. Remind your family that there are many other ways besides feeding your family pet that they may show and demonstrate their love.
Feed a balanced, healthy diet
Eliminate table leftovers and calorie-dense goodies to lose weight; limit food treats and prioritize healthy meals and snacks; and resist the urge to satisfy an animal’s sad, demanding gaze. Using a particular bowl or food puzzle that makes it more difficult for them to gulp down their food, or utilizing toys that dispense food in small amounts, may help to slow your pet’s food consumption (be cautious to keep the overall daily amount of food within an acceptable amount, though). The health of your pet may also benefit from smaller, more frequent meals. Give your pet a diet rich in nutrients and balance. Ask your veterinarian which meal would be best for your pet’s health.
Make Goals
Together with your veterinarian, set realistic goals for healthy weight loss for your pet. Ask your veterinarian for advice on healthy nutrition and activity that will result in a realistic and acceptable pace of weight loss based on your pet’s general health, because rapid weight loss can have major health consequences.
“Prior to finding the best approach, it may be necessary to adjust the recommended diet or routine for each cat.”
What are the reasons my cat should lose weight?
Your cat’s chance of obtaining some significant medical issues can increase by as little as two pounds over its optimal body weight. Unfortunately, when a cat is overweight or obese, the question of when and how serious a condition will manifest in your cat due to the excess weight is now more important than whether it will. The following are a few of the common conditions linked to being overweight:
- Type 2 diabetes is a dangerous condition that an obese cat is three times more likely to develop than a cat of a healthy weight.
- Coronary artery disease
- (Arthritis) osteoarthritis
- A rise in the number of joint injuries
- High blood pressure
- Some cancers, particularly those that are intra-abdominal
Cats that are overweight or obese typically live shorter lifetimes than their leaner, normal-weight counterparts. Heavy cats are typically less active and lively, and they connect with their families less physically. We may mistake their sleepiness for their typical laziness because they prefer to lie around more, making it easier to miss early symptoms of the disease. We are just beginning to understand how dangerous and deadly a few extra pounds can be for both humans and our furry friends.
Track and keep track of the progress.
After you’ve established realistic goals for achieving and maintaining your pet’s healthy weight, remember to keep track of its growth. There will be successes and failures, as with all weight loss programs. You can assess what is working and what isn’t by keeping track of your pet’s progress. Then, you may change the program as necessary.
Food does not equal love.
More effective ways to show your pet your affection than giving them food treats include spending time with them and engaging in activities with them. More than food or treats, your pet craves your care, interaction, and attention. Try taking your pet for a walk or playing with them whenever they whine or demand food. A good relationship and way of life require essential elements such as praise, affection, and play. If you only give your pet food incentives sometimes and don’t engage with them, they’ll start to prefer food to your touch.
A quick walk is your dog’s best form of exercise. For the majority of dogs, 15 to 30 minutes each day is adequate. To be healthy and cognitively alert, larger or more energetic breeds may need up to an hour or more of rigorous movement every day. Try hiding the food or relocating it further away from where the cat sleeps because cats enjoy chasing and hunting. Use appropriate and secure cat toys, such as paper bags, flashlights, balls, or feather toys, to keep your cat entertained. Try other toys, and keep in mind that your cat’s current favorite toy may get dull with time.
Heart disease is a dangerous medical issue affecting humans, dogs, and cats. The usual illnesses that affect people, such as heart disease, do not typically affect pets. Any irregularity of the heart is referred to as “heart disease.” It includes various problems, such as congenital abnormalities and disorders of physical structure and function, electrical activity, the ability to contract and relax, or electrical impulses that regulate the pace or rhythm of heartbeats. Although cats and dogs can develop heart disease, cats are more likely to develop structural abnormalities in their heart valves. In contrast, dogs are more likely to develop these abnormalities in the heart muscle itself.
Heart of your pet
Due to the heart’s invisibility and its shielding by the rib cage, cardiovascular diseases may be more difficult to identify and quantify. Approximately 10% of the animals that a veterinarian examines suffer from a cardiovascular condition.
Younger dogs are less likely to get heart disease, but as dogs get older, their risk of developing heart disease rises significantly. Heart disease is frequently a “silent” condition in cats, which means that it might not be discovered until it is too late. The prevalence of heart disease in cats is unknown because it frequently goes unrecognized. The heart of your pet is in charge of pumping blood to various body parts, assisting in healthy organ and muscle function. To perform its function well, it must be in good condition. It is extremely important that you understand the state of your pet’s heart for this reason. The first step is to take your pet to the vet for periodic checkups.
The veterinarian will examine your pet and look for any symptoms of potential heart illness, such as wheezing, coughing, or the existence of a murmur in the heart. As many pets with heart disease may not exhibit any symptoms, this can be difficult. In fact, heart disease can develop in cats and dogs years before you discover anything wrong.
Risk Factor
“Heart disease” is a broad phrase that refers to a variety of illnesses that can either be congenital (existing at birth) or acquired. Most cats don’t show any clinical symptoms until the condition is further developed. Cats with heart problems rarely cough, unlike humans and dogs. There are several factors that can increase a pet’s chances of having heart disease:
- Elderly Age: animals are more likely to have heart disease.
- Breed: Some heart conditions are more prevalent in certain breeds of dogs.
- A diet low in taurine has been linked to the onset of dilated cardiomyopathy in cats.
- The Food and Drug Administration has noted a possible link between grain-free meals and the emergence of dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs.
Clinical signs and symptoms
Any illness of the heart or large blood vessels known as heart disease stops oxygen from being carried normally throughout the body and affects how the heart functions. When the sick heart starts to struggle to pump enough blood to meet the body’s demands, congestive heart failure sets in. The damaged heart starts to lose its capacity to pump enough blood to meet the body’s requirements, which is when congestive heart failure starts to develop. Some clinical signs may include:
- Breathing problems
- Increased rate of breathing
- Stomach bloating
- Fainting
- Bluish hue to the gums or skin
- Decreased appetite
- Reduction of weight
- Cyanosis (a condition in which the gums turn blue)
Remember that the symptoms of aging and heart disease can be mistaken for one another, so keep an eye on your pet and contact your veterinarian if:
- is sleepy or lethargic and doesn’t want to play or exercise
- is coughing or having breathing issues ruptures or faints
Your veterinarian might advise you to keep track of your dog’s breathing rate while it’s sleeping at home. You can use this as a useful tool to track the onset or progression of congestive heart failure in pet animals who already have a cardiac condition.
Type of Heart Diseases in Dogs and Cats
Dogs are most frequently diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy and mitral valve disease. Heart failure can result from both. The most often afflicted dog breeds are those with certain forms of heart disease.
Mitral valve disease
The most prevalent acquired heart condition in dogs is, by far mitral valve dysfunction. This can happen to any breed, but it is more common in small dogs. The issue appears as the heart’s Mitral valve decreases and transforms over time. Mitral valve disease develops when the mitral valve, which is positioned between the left atrium and the left ventricle, thickens and distorts. Consequently, the valve begins to leak, allowing blood to flow against the force of gravity.
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)
It can be found in both dogs and cats, but it is significantly more frequent in dogs. This condition affects the cardiac muscle and causes weakening of the heart wall as well as diminished pumping power. DCM can cause collapse and sudden death, particularly in certain breeds like the Dobermann Pinscher.
Cats are most frequently afflicted by hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a form of cardiac condition in which the heart’s walls swell and become ineffective at pumping blood. Heart failure may result from this. Cats of any age can get this sort of cardiac disease, and since some cat breeds are more likely to have it than others, there may be a genetic tendency. The most often afflicted breeds are:
- American Shorthair
- Maine Coon
- Persian
- Siamese
- Ragdoll
- Sphynx
Diagnosis
If your veterinarian has a suspicion that your pet has heart disease, they will do a thorough physical examination and pay particular attention to the heart to look for any signs of heart-related issues. Some additional tests might be carried out because heart disease isn’t always the cause of murmurs:
- X-rays to look for heart and lung problems
- a blood examination to assess heart disease
- a blood pressure checkup to evaluate the cardiovascular system
- an electrocardiograph (ECG) that records heartbeat electrical activity
- an ultrasound called echocardiography to assess the anatomy and function of the heart.
The underlying condition will determine the course of treatment for heart disease in pets. Although many cardiovascular diseases unfortunately never completely go away, they can be controlled with various treatment options. After a heart condition diagnosis, your pet may receive one of the following treatments:
- Dietary modifications, including a low-sodium diet or suggested dietary supplements
- Diuretics that help remove the extra fluid that has accumulated as a result of impaired circulation
- medications that relax blood vessels, increase blood flow and improve heart performance
Depending on each animal’s specific demands, different treatments may be required for heart disease. Your pet can have a long, healthy life with proper care, early discovery, and monitoring. Your veterinarian will create a strategy that works for both you and your pet.
Maintaining the health of your pet
While poor diet and inactivity can lead to heart disease in humans, this is not the case for our pets. Fortunately, if you catch it early, your pet will continue to live a long and healthy life. Here are a few tips:
- Keep an eye out for changes in your pet as he or she gets older.
- Keep an eye out for adjustments in your pet’s energy level and appetite.
- Maintain a healthy, typical body weight for your pet.
- Understand your pet’s breed or combination of breeds, as well as his or her risk of heart disease.
Bring your pet in for routine examinations. This is one of the most crucial things you can do to take care of your pet. Heart disease is just one of the numerous illnesses that, if detected early, can be successfully treated.
Some carriers can be used as small dens for animals at home, but they are less practical because they are more fragile. Larger pet dogs are probably more likely to fall out if they are not adequately secured when kept inside. You must get an appropriate-sized container for your animal’s flight journey as well.
How does the pet carrier benefit work?
- There are a few plastic pet carriers on the market, but soft-sided pet carriers dominate. You might certainly imagine they would be light to handle since they are composed of lightweight materials. As a result, older people who have tiny animals appreciate carriers since they make traveling more convenient and less work.
- Smaller animals will be simpler to transport and, more crucially, may be used in airline cabins.
Aspects of carrier sizing and design
The size of the container (crate, kennel, or carrier) must be such that it will allow the pet to stand in a natural position, turn around easily, and lie down naturally at all times. The pictures provide measurement instructions and a general idea for determining the right size airline shipping container for your pet or pets. They have to do with a pet that is posing naturally.
To purchase the appropriate size carrier for your pet, be careful to take accurate measurements. The following formula may help estimate the traveling container’s approximate size. The height of the bedding should be added to the animal’s height when determining the minimum inside height of the container.
Animal dimensions
A is the total length of the animal, measured from tip to root of tail.
B is the height from the floor to the elbow joint.
C is the bigger length across the shoulders or the width at the widest point.
D is the animal’s height in its normal standing position, measured from the top of the head or the top of the ear to the ground, whichever is higher.
Minimum Container Dimension
Length = A + 1/2 of B
Width = C x 2.
Height = D
Design Features and Carrier Materials
Wood or plastic can be used for air transport containers, but they must meet flight requirements. Some airlines want a certain kind of cage while rejecting others. To make sure that your carrier is acceptable, check with the airline that will be transporting your pet.
The design of the door catch is essential. Standard pet carriers might need to have their door catches reinforced. Door padlocks shouldn’t be used. Wheels shouldn’t be used on carriers. These need to be taken off or taped. They must have a handle or grips, be sturdy, and be devoid of inner protrusions. They need to be well-ventilated to prevent airflow obstructions.
Accessories
Water and food dispensers
- These should be able to be refilled from the outside of the carrier and should be fitted to the inside of the door.
- If the flight is delayed, a small quantity of dry food in a plastic bag that seals well should be attached to the top of the carrier.
Mattresses and accessories
- The carrier should include an absorbing substance. The required carrier space has to compensate for the thickness of the bedding. The best option is a thin mattress or underpad.
- Airlines allow only one blanket or mattress pad to be placed inside the pet carrier.
- A familiar, waterproof blanket placed inside the kennel may help relax the pet and keep the space clean while it is being transported.
- The pet must not be wearing leashes, muzzles, or choke collars, nor may they be placed inside the carrier.
Can a pet carrier have any disadvantages?
- Security is one of the main problems with carriers. Larger dogs cannot be contained by them since they typically have soft sides that can be smashed through. They can leave if they choose.
- They will be released with only a violent outburst. It is safe to say that larger dogs would not benefit from these given that information.
- In conclusion, pet carriers and crates are two distinct things. They both offer benefits and drawbacks, but you should always consider all of your options.
- On the other hand, carriers are generally less expensive and easier to transport, but they do not provide as much security, cannot handle large breeds as well as carriers, and do not provide as effective toilet training results.
Is there going to be a lot of animal travel?
When traveling in the same primary enclosure, weaned puppies or kittens may get along well. Puppies and kittens must be from the same litter, be younger than six months old, weigh no more than 14 kg for each, and not exceed three per container when being created together in the same container or primary enclosure. In accordance with several national laws, cats and dogs must travel in individual crates unless they are part of a litter that is over 8 weeks old and is being transported with the mother.
Two adult animals at most, each weighing up to 14 kg, that are compatible in size and accustomed to living together may be transported in the same container or primary enclosure. Over 14 kilogram animals must be crated separately.
In order to prevent your pets from becoming stressed or aggressive when traveling by air, you should not place them in the same containers unless they are puppies or kittens that are still young. In some cases, animals living together in a household may become stressed and aggressive towards each other when traveling by air together.
Adapting your animal to its new surroundings
Allow your pet to become acquainted with the box or kennel several weeks or months before your departure. Get your animal used to being confined in one by purchasing one in advance. Always keep in mind that removing an animal from its usual setting or environment is stressful.
When used to their kennel or cage, animals behave perfectly well when being moved. Even though pet owners have to care for their pets, they often ignore this duty.
Points to remember
- If your pet will be traveling with a particular airline, inquire about any carrier-specific rules and regulations.
- The majority of airlines only allow one pet per carrier. Ask the airline if they accept several pets and if there are any restrictions that might be in place.
- It’s important to write the pet’s name on the outside of the container because when workers are handling the animal, using the pet’s name to address it will reassure it.
- Include your name, home address, home phone number, and destination contact information on the exterior of the carrier, along with the words “Live Animals” and arrows to show the crate’s upright posture. You should also clearly mark the outside of the carrier with the designation “Live Animals.” Additionally, bring copies of your pet’s photo and health records on the plane with you for quick identification in case the cage label is misplaced.
- The animal should be exercised right before it leaves your property.
- Use a clean, odor-free carrier whenever possible.
- Ideally, right before shipping, give your pet a bath or a good cleaning. It is not advised to ship females who are in oestrus or in heat.
Numerous pet-related illnesses can be avoided with vaccinations. It has long been believed that one of the simplest methods to ensure that your pet has a long and healthy life is to vaccinate him. There are multiple kinds and mixes of vaccines in addition to distinct vaccines for various diseases. Every pet’s vaccination procedure includes dangers and benefits that must be assessed in light of his lifestyle and general health. A vaccination schedule that will offer your specific animal the safest and best protection can be decided by your veterinarian.
Why do we need vaccines?
Vaccines are medicines created to boost a pet’s immune system and get it ready to fight off future diseases from pathogens. Vaccines can reduce the severity of future infections and, in certain cases, prevent them entirely. Veterinarians can now utilize a range of vaccines. Using a syringe and needle, some vaccines are injected into the animal’s body, while others are given topically or through the animal’s nose.
How important is vaccination?
Yes! Pets should be vaccinated to protect them from a variety of very dangerous and deadly diseases. The extensive use of immunizations over the past century has, according to experts, saved millions of animals from illness and death. In addition to being extremely expensive, several of these diseases can be fatal even with treatment if an unvaccinated pet contracts them. Vaccination is still strongly advised despite the fact that several once-common diseases have now become uncommon since these dangerous disease agents are still present in the environment.
Vaccinating pets can also prevent some zoonotic diseases, such as illnesses shared between animals and people. For instance, rabies, a dangerous and frequently fatal disease, can be transmitted from infected animals to humans. You are safeguarding not only your pet but also your family by vaccinating them against rabies.
How effective is vaccination in preventing disease?
The majority of pets can avoid future illnesses with vaccinations. Rarely, but it’s conceivable, vaccinated pets who don’t build enough protection against the disease could get sick if exposed to it.
To provide a baby with the best chance of avoiding disease in the first few months of life, any gaps in protection should be as brief as possible. It’s vital to keep in mind that, despite periodic breakdowns in immunity, the majority of well-immunized animals are capable of successfully fending off disease, underscoring the significance of vaccinations in your pet’s preventive healthcare regimen.
What are the risks associated with vaccination?
The potential risks of any treatment should be compared to the advantages of shielding your pet from potentially fatal illnesses. Vaccinations are generally well tolerated by most pets. The majority of adverse reactions are mild and temporary, with symptoms like fever, lethargy, and decreased appetite. Additionally, pets may have a little swelling or brief pain at the injection site. Although the majority of side responses go away in a day or two, your vet should be consulted if there is any extreme or persistent pain, swelling, or listlessness.
“Rarely, more serious adverse reactions can occur.”
An allergic reaction may occur within minutes or hours of vaccination and may lead to repeated vomiting or diarrhea, body itchiness, swelling of the face or legs, difficulty breathing, or collapse.”
If any of these symptoms appear, call your veterinarian instantly. A fatal allergic reaction might happen in extremely rare circumstances. Injection site tumors (also known as sarcomas) in cats, which can appear weeks or months after vaccination, are among other unusual but severe side responses. The best advice is to always inform your veterinarian of any problems you observe in your pet following a vaccination.
Is it necessary to vaccinate puppies and kittens?
Due to immature immune systems, young pups, and kittens are particularly vulnerable to infectious illnesses. While nursing, the mother’s milk contains antibodies (special proteins) that give some immunity to diseases. However, these maternal antibodies do not last for long, and there may be gaps in protection as the milk antibodies diminish and the puppies’ or kittens’ immune system is not yet capable of fighting off infection. In many cases, the first dose of a vaccination serves to prepare the animal’s immune system against the virus or bacteria, while the following doses aid in further stimulating the immune system to develop the antibodies required to protect an animal from particular diseases.
A sequence of immunizations is planned, often spaced 3–4 weeks apart, to minimize these gaps in protection and give the best protection against disease in the first few months of life. The most recent vaccination in the series is typically given to puppies and kittens when they are around 4 months old, but a veterinarian may occasionally adjust this schedule based on the risk factors of a specific animal. Remember that an incomplete sequence of vaccines may result in insufficient protection, leaving puppies and kittens vulnerable to infection.
In most cases, vaccinations have no negative effects on pets. Vaccine responses can range from minor and transient to severe and demanding rapid veterinary attention. Clinical signs consist of:
- Fever
- Sluggishness
- Reduces appetite.
- Hives or swelling of the face
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Around the injection site, there may be pain, swelling, redness, scabbing, or hair loss.
- Lameness
- Collapse
- Breathing issues
Do my pets need any vaccinations?
Not all pets need to receive all offered vaccinations. Most pets in a certain area should have “core” vaccinations since they offer protection from the diseases that are most prevalent there. Individual pets with particular needs only receive “Non-Core” vaccinations. When designing a vaccination schedule for your pet’s lifelong protection, your veterinarian will take into account the dangers of exposure to certain diseases that can be avoided.
In order to reduce your pet’s chance of contracting certain diseases, discuss your pet’s lifestyle with your veterinarian, including any anticipated travel to other areas and/or interaction with other animals (such as exposure at kennels, obedience lessons, shows, and parks). Make sure your veterinarian is aware of any previous vaccination reactions in elderly pets.
What is the ideal number of vaccinations for my pet?
For a long time, it was believed that dogs and cats should receive a series of immunizations annually. Many vaccines induce immunity that lasts well beyond a year, while others may not. It is becoming increasingly clear that some vaccines induce immunity that lasts far longer than a year, whereas others may not. Therefore, a single vaccine plan won’t be effective for all pets. Your veterinarian will choose the immunization regimen that is best for your pet.
An antibody titer test is one of the methods by which the level of immune system proteins, known as antibodies, can be measured in the blood. Your pet’s immune system reacts to vaccinations by creating antibodies that the body can utilize to stave off subsequent diseases. This test will determine how much antibody remains in your pet’s blood after immunization in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the vaccination. Vaccines are vital because they inject a replicated portion of a dead or compromised virus or bacteria, allowing your dog to develop immunity without becoming ill.
What is the procedure for rabies titer testing?
The rabies titer test is usually carried out 30 days after the rabies vaccine has been given. Even though the test may occasionally be performed early, waiting 30 days for the antibodies to develop is advised. Before vaccinating your pet against rabies and giving the titer test, ensure that he or she is microchipped.
The period of fasting for your pet before the blood draw should be between 8 and 12 hours. Your veterinarian will take blood from your pet and send it to a certified laboratory to be tested for the presence of antibodies. There are around 40 laboratories worldwide with the necessary authorizations to provide this test for foreign travel. You can get assistance from your pet travel partner with sample collection and delivery. To assess the blood sample’s rabies-neutralizing titre value, the laboratory will compare it to infected cells.
To demonstrate that your pet is sufficiently immunized against rabies, most nations demand a level of 0.5 IU/ml or above. A small proportion of pets occasionally fail the blood test. In such circumstances, you can administer a booster immunization to your pet and then gather a sample for the follow-up test 14–28 days after the blood sample is collected.
Does IVH conduct this test?
A registered veterinarian conducts the test, and it must then be transmitted to an authorized laboratory for analysis.
It is essential that the proper laboratory receive the sample from your pet; thus, we recommend double-checking the import regulations for your final destination, as some have a predefined list of authorized labs. If you have any questions about this, please contact our pet relocation department, because they can also assist.
What are the limits of pet titer testing?
Titre testing is an appropriate technique for evaluating immunity to parvovirus, distemper, and adenovirus, according to AAHA vaccine recommendations. Due to the fact that these vaccines only offer transitory protection, they are not advised for canine leptospirosis, bordetella, or Lyme disease.
The titer tests for rabies are likewise thought to be a fairly accurate way to gauge immunity, and rabies vaccines offer long-term protection. However, vaccination against rabies is required by law, and regrettably, no U.S. state accepts the results of titer tests in place of vaccination records. Therefore, even if a titer test reveals that the victim has immunity, they still need to be quarantined if your dog bites them. However, specific rabies titer tests are used when relocating to rabies-free areas or nations (such as Hawaii, Japan, New Zealand, and Great Britain). In this situation, a dog will be eligible for a shorter quarantine thanks to the rabies titer test.
Are titer tests necessary for my pet?
Your pet requires antibodies against specific diseases so that its body can fight the pathogen and get rid of the disease. As a result, the development of antibodies to a specific disease may indicate that your pet is resistant to that disease.
In our patients, antibody immunity, which is assessed through titer testing, and cell immunity, which is not assessed through titer testing, are two distinct types of immunity. Although it is unclear by how much, the two forms of immunity are thought to typically correspond.
It all depends on where you are right now and where you’re going. It is crucial that you learn the laws and import restrictions of the country you are traveling to. You can also get help from the IVH Pet Relocation department with your questions.
Visit this link to get a list of nations that are rabies-free: http://www.pettravel.com/passports_rabies_free_countries.cfm
Rabies Titer Test: Why Do You Need It?
It is important to note that rabies is a core vaccine, so titers can be determined, but there is some complexity in using titers as a substitute for rabies vaccination. As part of rabies control and preventive strategies, the majority of states and/or municipalities require dogs (and frequently cats as well) to receive rabies vaccinations. The most effective way to prevent human rabies deaths is to limit rabies vectors, which are animals that can carry the rabies virus and infect others. Rabies is a zoonotic disease that can be transferred to humans. The use of titers instead of vaccination is not currently permitted under these laws. The absence of an agreement on a standard titer number that is regarded as protective further complicates matters.
Why do rabies titer tests exist?
Many rabies-free nations and certain nations with rabies-controlled (third) nations require a blood titer test for pet dogs and cats in order for them to be eligible for a brief quarantine or none at all while they are traveling from qualified nations. RNAT and FAVN testing proves that your pet has strong enough rabies immunity if you are taking it on a trip from a country where rabies is common to one where it is not. However, Hawaii (US), Guam, Japan, St. Kitts and Nevis, Australia, New Zealand, Korea, the Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, the EU, and other nations are among those that demand the test.
To prevent rabies in local animals, this test is required for cross-border pet travel and shows that your pet has a strong enough immunity to rabies.
Remember
It is crucial that you research the import regulations in the nation where you intend to travel. You can also get help from the IVH Pet Relocation department with your questions.
In those countries that demand it, the blood titer test must be completed between 30 and 180 days before entering the nation. It is essential that you do your study in accordance with the timing requirements of the country to which you are traveling. The waiting time often starts on the day the veterinarian takes the blood sample. (In the case of Australia, the waiting time begins when the blood sample arrives at the laboratory.)
Summary: final note
Please be aware that the information above is only intended to serve as a reference manual for comprehending rabies titer tests. If you have any questions, it’s crucial to see your veterinarian. If you intend to take your dogs on a trip, you should also thoroughly investigate the country where you’ll be going.
To prevent any potential delays or waiting periods, we advise that you always keep your pets up to date with all of their immunizations, most importantly their rabies vaccinations.
We advise starting the rabies titer test as soon as you can if you have any plans to take your pets on an international trip.
It’s important to keep in mind that some businesses (such as boarding kennels, catteries, or dog daycare facilities) won’t take your pet unless they have a complete vaccination record that complies with manufacturer recommendations. Insurance providers for pets may decline coverage or deny a claim for an illness that may have been avoided with immunization.
Cats and dogs frequently get spayed or neutered as a form of birth control. The decision to spay or neuter a pet is often challenging for pet owners. The widespread misconceptions surrounding this extremely simple surgery are largely to blame for this. The truth is that animals who have been spayed or neutered often live longer, healthier lives.
Animal Behavior and Reproduction
Contrary to common perception, female dogs and cats do not behave better after being pregnant, even once. In fact, the breeding instinct may cause unwanted behaviors and cause both the owner and the animal considerable discomfort. Additionally, even though some pet owners may have the best of intentions, very few are ready to put in the time and effort necessary to keep track of their pet’s pregnancy, care for the pups or kittens, and find suitable homes for them.
How Surgical Sterilization is Performed?
The veterinarian removes some reproductive organs in between surgical sterilizations. During the course of the procedure, your veterinarian will be removing female body organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus if they exist in your female pet. Although it is more often referred to as “spaying,” this procedure’s official name is ovariohysterectomy. When a male pet has the testicles removed, the procedure is known as an orchiectomy, often known as castration or just “neutering.”
The two most frequent surgeries performed by veterinarians on cats and dogs, spaying and neutering, are both substantial surgical procedures. Your pet has a complete physical examination prior to the treatment to make sure it’s in good health. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and painkillers are supplied. After the procedure, you will be instructed to keep your pet calm and quiet while the wounds heal for a few days.
Benefits of Spaying Female Pets
Female dogs
Depending on the breed, female dogs go through a “heat” cycle about every six months. During a female dog’s heat cycle, which can last up to 21 days, your pet may leave blood stains in the home, get stressed and irritable, and aggressively look for a mate. A female dog in heat may fight more frequently with other female dogs, especially females living in the same home.
Female cats
During the breeding season, female cats can experience period discomfort every two weeks until they give birth. During this stage, they could exhibit undesirable behaviors such as excessive yowling and urinating in public locations.
“Spaying reduces unwanted behaviors that may frustrate owners due to heat cycles. Spaying female dogs and cats at an early age helps prevent serious health problems, such as uterine infections and breast cancer, later in life.”
Benefits of Neutering Male Pets
Male dogs and cats are able to reproduce when they reach maturity (often between 6 and 9 months of age). Male dogs and cats may start “marking” their respective areas by urinating excessively on your coverings, furniture, and other parts of your home. Additionally, intact males may try to flee their homes and roam in quest of a mate if given the least opportunity.
Dogs and cats who are in search of a female in heat may turn violent and get into fights that hurt them, other animals, or people.
Male dogs and cats that have been neutered experience a diminished desire to reproduce as well as a relaxing impact that makes them more satisfied to stay at home.
Neutering males reduces their risk of hernias, testicular cancer, and prostatic illness. It also eliminates those risks. Additionally, it reduces the risk of problems associated with territorial and sexual aggression, inappropriate urination (spraying), and other undesirable male behaviors as well.
Misconceptions and Myths about Spay/Neuter
- Pet won’t get fat after getting spayed or neutered
Your pet will gain weight due to inactivity and excessive feeding, not neutering. If you continue to provide exercise and control food consumption, your pet will stay fit and trim.
- Neutering cannot resolve all behavioral issues
There is no reassurance that your dog’s behavior will improve after he has been neutered, even though neutering your pet frequently lowers unwanted behaviors brought on by a greater amount of testosterone. The procedure will lessen the level of testosterone in your dog’s body, but it won’t totally remove it. Additionally, neutering won’t change your pet’s learned or ingrained behaviors.
Risks of surgery
Sterilization has some anesthetic and surgical risks, like any surgical operation, although the overall frequency of problems is quite low. Your veterinarian will give you advice on both the advantages and disadvantages of the sterilization treatment because variations in the concentrations of reproductive hormones may alter your pet’s chance of contracting certain illnesses in the future.
How to recover safely and comfortably?
Your veterinarian facility will offer you pre-surgical instructions that you should follow. You should generally refrain from feeding your adult dog or cat after midnight the night before surgery. However, a puppy or kitten needs proper nourishment, therefore your veterinarian might advise against restricting them of food.
You can follow the post-operative instructions that your veterinarian can give you. After surgery, your pet might feel some discomfort, but your veterinarian can take steps to reduce suffering. Depending on the operation done, your pet may be sent home with painkillers.
Here are a few recommendations for a comfortable and calming down recuperation:
- Provide a peaceful space for your pet to rest indoors, separate from other animals.
- Avoid allowing your pet to run or jump for up to two weeks after surgery, or for as soon as your veterinarian suggests.
- Use an Elizabethan collar that is properly placed to stop your pet from rubbing the wound, which could result in infection.
- After surgery, your pet shouldn’t be bathed for at least 10 days.
- To ensure necessary healing, daily check the area of the incision.
Aspects of Pet Metabolism and Disposition
The surgery has no impact on a pet’s IQ, learning capacity, or capacity for play, work, or hunting. After surgery, most animals often behave better, making them more appealing as companions.
Additionally, the procedure won’t make your pet overweight. Feeding your pet a balanced diet and giving them regular exercise will help them maintain a healthy weight and lower their chance of developing obesity-related health problems. Ask your veterinarian for guidance on the ideal nutrition and exercise regimen for your pet at each stage of its life.
When should your pet be spayed or neutered?
According to your pet’s breed, age, and physical condition, talk to your veterinarian about the best time to spay or neuter it. It is estimated that male dogs are able to smell females in heat from a distance of up to a kilometer. Remember that it is not advisable to wait until your female dog or cat has experienced its first heat cycle, despite what is commonly believed.
Additional Benefits of Spaying and Neutering
It’s reasonably priced! Having and caring for a litter is much more expensive than having your pet spayed or neutered. Additionally, it’s less expensive than medical bills if your neutered male cat gets loose and fights a stray cat in the neighborhood!
It assists in reducing population growth. Worldwide, millions of dogs and cats of all ages and breeds are put to death or endure hardship as strays each year. The unexpected litter that led to these high numbers perhaps could have been prevented if spaying and neutering had been done earlier.
Pets are surviving longer than ever before because of better treatment, but as they age, they require more care and attention. Regular veterinary exams can identify issues in older animals before they develop or become life-threatening, increasing the likelihood that your pet will live a longer, healthier life.
What constitutes “old age” for a pet?
Depending on the breed, cats and small dogs are typically deemed “senior” at seven years old. In comparison to smaller breeds, larger breed dogs tend to live shorter lives and are frequently regarded as seniors around the age of 5 to 6 years. Contrary to popular perception, dogs do not mature by 7 human years for every year in dog years.
Little Dogs
Dogs weighing less than 20 pounds mature faster than larger breeds, as they are generally completely developed by 6 to 8 months of age. After this, though, they mature more gradually.
A small-breed dog can live up to 16 years, which is often longer than a large-breed dog. As a result, a small, healthy dog may not be regarded as a senior until they are 12 years old.
It’s always possible for something to go beyond the norm, and that’s exactly what happened here. Small breeds with a shorter life span, like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, are deemed senior at around 8 years old.
Large Dogs
Large dog breeds typically live shorter lives than smaller breeds; thus, they reach their golden years earlier.
An excellent general indicator of large breed dogs is the labrador. Since they live an average of 12 years, they would start their senior years at the age of 8 to 9. Giant breeds, like the Bernese Mountain Dog, have much shorter life spans; ‘Berners’, for example, live to be on average 6 to 8 years old, therefore being regarded as seniors at 4 to 5.
Why are senior pets more likely to have certain problems?
It’s essential to keep in mind that a pet’s organ systems are changing along with the external symptoms of aging, such as a slowing down of movement and a graying of the hair coat. An elderly pet is more susceptible to illnesses like arthritis, cancer, and heart, kidney, and liver problems. There is a very high rate of cancer among pets over the age of ten, constituting nearly half of all pet-related deaths. Cats experience cancer at a somewhat lower rate than dogs, who experience it nearly at the same rate as people.
Similar to humans growing older, it is common for pets to experience some hearing and sight loss. Older animals may develop cataracts and not respond to voice commands as well.
“When you teach your pet hand signals at an early age, you may be able to communicate more effectively with it as its hearing becomes less acute as it ages.”
You can securely maintain control of your pet without using words by using simple hand signals like “come” or “stop”. Pets with impaired vision or even blindness can navigate their surroundings with ease in a familiar setting. Avoid moving or adding furniture or other objects that could become obstructions if your pet’s eyesight is deteriorating.
Activity changes in pets
Your pet may have arthritis if it begins to run away from energetic play or running or if it has problems performing daily tasks like jumping onto its favorite chair or into the family car. A pet with arthritis may also become irritated when touched or petted (particularly in the arthritic areas) and may appear more disappointed or irritable. You should have your pet inspected by your veterinarian to identify the root of the issues because there could be other causes for these changes. Veterinarians have access to a wide range of treatments to help manage your pet’s arthritis, and straightforward home modifications like orthopedic pet beds, raised feeding platforms, steps, and ramps may also be helpful for your elderly pet.
Animal Behavior Changes
Your pet’s changing behavior may be one of the early signs of aging. These modifications may result from discomfort or pain (arthritis, for example), deteriorating vision or hearing, or aging in general. Older animals may exhibit some behavioral abnormalities as a result of cognitive impairment, which is comparable to senility in humans.
Frequent behavioral alterations in senior pets that could be indicators of cognitive impairment include:
- Quickly terrified by loud noises
- Increased meowing and barking
- Confusion or a lack of a direction
- Home contaminating (“accidents”)
- Less enthusiasm for playing
- Ignoring spoken commands
- Uncommonly combative behavior
- Worry or nervousness
- A rise in wandering
- Modifications to sleep habits
- Continuing the same behavior
- More irritated or grumpy than normal
Why does weight affect the health of senior pets?
The weight of an elderly pet is one of the most significant factors that can negatively impact the animal’s health. Obesity in older animals raises the risk of arthritis, respiratory problems, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, skin issues, cancer, and other ailments. It’s advised to take your pet to the vet frequently because an overweight pet may not exhibit any early symptoms of health issues. Your veterinarian can propose a suitable diet and other measures to help your pet maintain a healthy lifestyle after assessing your pet’s condition.
Concern should also be expressed if an elderly pet begins to lose weight suddenly, especially if the animal is a cat. Common reasons for weight loss in older cats include diabetes, kidney illness, and hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland).
Decreased endurance
Dogs who are overweight have lower stamina and endurance. It takes a lot more effort to move around with all that added weight. The respiratory system, heart, and muscles are all asked to do activities for which they were not intended.
Decreased liver functioning
Since the liver is where fat is stored, an increase in fat naturally accumulates there when a dog is overweight. The term for this is hepatic lipidosis. Reduced liver function may be a consequence of this disorder.
Weakened immunological response
Dog obesity is directly linked to a reduction in their ability to fight off bacterial and viral diseases. Particularly, salmonella infections and canine distemper seem to be more severe in overweight dogs.
Skin and hair problems
In overweight dogs, the danger of skin and coat illnesses is elevated. The skin produces a greater variety of oils, and it can fold in on itself to form pockets that are perfect for the buildup of oils and the emergence of infections.
The New, Young Pet
As your pet ages, it may be tempting to bring a new pet into the house, but you should speak with your veterinarian before bringing a puppy or kitten home. An older pet should ideally be introduced to a new pet when it’s still active and capable of moving away from the younger pet if it needs a “time-out.” Senior animals need to be aware that they have a calm, safe location where they can go and relax.
“Petting Consent” test.
Practice the consent test before using it to determine how a pet feels about being petted or touched by a youngster. If the animal approaches for a cuddle, let your youngster pet it for two to three seconds before stopping. Your child may resume brushing the animal if it draws nearer or makes a sign that it would like more attention. Simply throw a treat on the ground far from you and give them a break if they move away or appear hesitant. Regular application of this consent test during child-pet interaction will guarantee that your new pet appreciates the attention and touch, and it will comfort them that they can leave if necessary rather than escalate defensive behavior if they feel threatened.
The consumption of a number of household items and substances can be harmful to pets such as dogs and cats, and in some cases, they can even kill them. By being aware of the most prevalent health risks present in many households with pets, you can protect your pet’s well-being.
HAZARDS IN THE KITCHEN
Foods
Many foods that are completely healthy for humans could be dangerous or even fatal to dogs and cats. To be safe, don’t give your pet any of the following foods:
Coffee grounds | Chocolate | Grapes/Raisins |
Tea | Avocado | Onion/Garlic |
Fatty Foods | Yeast Dough | Salt |
Xylitol-containing chewing gum, and breath fresheners
Garbage should never be placed within reach of a pet because decomposing food contains mold or bacteria that could cause food poisoning.
Preparing food poses a special danger to pets
Teflon coatings in cooking pans are particularly irritating to birds. Cookware should never be left unattended while being used on the stove, and be sure to keep your bird in a location other than the kitchen since non-stick coating vapors can be fatal in nature. Additionally, near windows, mirrors, and ceiling fans, flying birds are in danger. Regular wing trimming can stop birds from soaring into danger and escaping into the open air.
There are numerous products in every home that could be harmful to both people and animals. Learn about potential risks so that you can avoid them before they become an issue. The proper precautions and ongoing attention will keep you and your pet safe.
Supplies for cleaning
Numerous household cleaners are safe to use with cats and dogs. The secret to safe use, however, is to read and obey the product’s instructions for safe use and storage. For example, if the label advises you to “keep pets and children away from the area until dry,” observe the warning to avoid any potential health hazards. When used appropriately, bleach-containing products can safely disinfect a variety of domestic surfaces, but when used improperly, they can also burn severely if swallowed, cause an upset stomach, drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea, and irritate the respiratory system when inhaled at high concentrations. Furthermore, skin burns from concentrated solutions can be extremely painful. Cats are known to be particularly sensitive to certain chemicals, such as phenols, and some detergents can cause a similar reaction. It’s recommended to keep all cleaning supplies in their original packaging or in a container that is properly marked and tightly closed, and to keep them in a safe cabinet that is out of pets’ reach.
Insecticides
Before using any kind of pesticide in the vicinity of your pet, read and comply with the label directions just like you would with household cleaners. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid using flea and tick treatments that are intended “for use on dogs only” on cats or other animals because doing so could have significant or even fatal consequences. To ensure that these products are safe for your pet to use, always consult your veterinarian.
HAZARDS IN THE BATHROOM
Medication
Human medical issues can be treated with drugs that can make pets severely ill.
“The best advice is to never give your pet medication unless
your veterinarian has prescribed it.”
The following medications should generally be kept out of the reach of animals, tightly closed, and stored in a safe cabinet above the counter:
- Aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen are examples of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
- Acetaminophen
- Vitamins and diet pills
- Cold-Relief Drugs
- Antihistamines
- Drugs on Prescription
- Mood stabilizers
Sundries and Soaps
Toothpaste, sunblock, and bath and hand soaps should all be kept away from your dogs. They might make you feel sick, throw up, or have diarrhea. To avoid your pets eating treated toilet bowl water that could upset their digestive systems, keep toilet lids tight.
Harmful Chemicals
The water in toilets is often frozen during the winter, so many people put antifreeze in them. It is fatal for dogs and cats to drink antifreeze. Keep your toilet lids down and your chemicals out of reach of pets if you use these chemicals during the winter. Additionally, use caution when visiting friends or relatives with your pet, as you never know what chemicals they may be using.
Alluring Cleaning Agents
The cleansers that are most frequently found in bathrooms are usually convenient discs or tablets that fit into the toilet bowl or attach to the side of the toilet. Despite the fact that these cleaners frequently color the water blue and may seem harmful for pets, you can relax knowing that your pet won’t likely suffer any negative effects from drinking treated water on a daily basis. The quantity that your pet consumes matters, just like it does with most items that can be hazardous. Since the toilet bowl cleaner’s chemicals are diluted in water and present in these tablets or discs, more severe symptoms aren’t often anticipated. However, mild stomach discomfort may occur.
If your pet consumes any of the blue toilet water, you can further dilute the mixture by giving them a tiny amount of milk or fresh water. Please get in touch with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
RISKS IN THE ROOM AND THE LIVING AREA
Keep in mind that while many liquid potpourri solutions have pleasant-smelling chemicals, some of them may contain substances that might lead to mouth ulcers and other issues.
A dog or cat can become ill from ingesting just one mothball, and naphthalene-containing mothballs can cause severe illness, including digestive tract irritation, liver, kidney, and blood cell damage, swelling of the brain tissues, seizures, coma, and even death (if swallowed). Other objects that can be dangerous if swallowed include coins, tobacco products, and alkaline batteries (like the ones in your remote controls).
INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE HOUSE: PLANTS
Numerous houseplants and garden plants have the potential to make your pet sick. The most commonly cultivated plants that should be kept away from pets include:
- Even little doses of some lilies can cause kidney failure in cats, making them extremely hazardous.
- If consumed, Lily of the Valley may result in heart issues.
- Sago palms (Cycas species) can harm the liver and cause serious digestive issues, seizures, and liver damage, particularly if the plant’s nuts are ingested.
- Azaleas and rhododendrons can result in death, coma, cardiac issues, sadness, weakness, and digestive trouble.
There are other plants that are also very dangerous but are not listed here. Identify which plants may be harmful to your pet by conducting some research.
Additional Domestic Hazards
A curious cat or dog may quickly ingest little objects that fall to the ground. Coins, buttons, small children’s toys, medicine bottles, jewelry, nails, and screws are a few examples of such goods. Your pet may sustain digestive tract damage as a result, and the object may need to be surgically removed.
Even an adult dog or cat could be drawn to chew on live electrical lines, which could result in burns or electrocution. Electrical cords are particularly alluring to puppies, who enjoy chewing on practically anything. Use cord covers and barricade wire access to stop this.
Celebratory Hazards
Remember that your pets may face a unique problem during the holidays and when you have guests. Encourage well-meaning visitors to refrain from pampering pets with extra dinner table treats. Foods that are fatty, rich, or spicy can make you sick, cause diarrhea, and even endanger your life by inflaming your pancreas. Soft bones, such as those from poultry, can splinter and hurt your pet’s mouth or esophagus. Xylitol-sweetened treats like chocolate or sweets can make for a bad snack.
Make sure there are no decorations left on the ground or within reach of pets, especially tinsel, ribbons, and ornaments. If not surgically removed, string-like objects can harm your pet’s intestine and perhaps prove fatal.
Drug administration to a cat or dog might be difficult for newbie pet parents. Even for a pet professional, giving medication to a loving pet can be unpleasant. Stubborn animals can make the work extremely challenging, resulting in the animal receiving an insufficient amount of medicine or none at all. When your vet diagnoses an illness or infection, he or she will usually prescribe you some drugs to give to your cat at home.
Here’s some advice on how to use oral, eye, and ear medications:
Oral Medications
Your veterinarian will advise you whether your cat’s medication(s) can be administered with or without food. If the pill or capsule can be administered with food, create a “meatball” by placing the drug in the center of a small ball of canned cat food or cheese. Always give your cat a test “meatball” to determine if she is willing to eat it and if she chews it or inhales it whole. Cats chew their food more than dogs, therefore they will frequently consume the “meatball” and spit out the tablet or capsule. As a result, the pill or capsule partially dissolves and becomes extremely difficult to manage. If the cat chews into the tablet or capsule, leaving an unpleasant taste in her mouth, she will be more difficult to medicate on the second try. So you’ll have to figure out what works best for your cat.
If you are unable to provide the medication in a “meatball,” the instructions below will assist you. Oral medications are available in pill, capsule, or liquid form.
- If you are right-handed, hold the cat’s head from the top with your left hand. The cat’s cheekbones serve as a suitable grip for firmly holding the head without causing discomfort to the cat.
- Hold the pill or capsule between your thumb and index finger of your right hand. Use the same middle finger.
- To pry open the lower jaw, use the hand holding the tablet or capsule. Pull open the lower jaw by placing your middle finger on the little incisor teeth rather than the sharp fangs (canine teeth).
- To assist the cat to swallow, close the lips and rub the cat’s neck or blow on his/her nose.
- Keep the lower jaw open with the middle finger, then drop the pill or capsule as far back on the tongue as possible, or use the index finger and thumb to slide the pill over the back of the tongue.
If the medicine is spitting out by the animal, try hiding it in a piece of food. A tiny slice of meat or cheese will serve. Use low-fat cheese, and a few seconds in the microwave will make it soft and simple to hide the pill in the ball of cheese!
IMPORTANT: If you use your thumb and index finger to put the pill over the base of the cat’s tongue, your fingers will be inside the cat’s mouth and you will need to act quickly to avoid being bitten.
Using a Pill Gun
There are numerous pilling devices available that can be used to slip a pill or capsule at the base of the cat’s tongue without having to put your fingers in the cat’s mouth.
- Hold the device between your index and middle fingers and position your thumb to “press” the trigger.
- As explained previously, open the cat’s mouth. Insert the pill into the pilling device and place it over the base of the tongue. To deposit the pill further back in the cat’s mouth, use your thumb or index finger to push the plunger on the pilling device.
When this procedure is not possible, consider utilizing a “pill gun.” This device has a straw-like barrel into which the pill or capsule can be loaded and then fired into the rear of the pet’s mouth. Using a pill gun will assist you to avoid being bitten or injured as a result of your pet’s reaction to the medication.
Ear Medications
Ear cleaning and medicating can be messy, so wear clean clothes and operate on a clean surface. The majority of cats dislike getting their ears cleaned.
To keep your cat in your lap while applying for ear medicines, drape your left forearm across the cat’s torso. Hold the head with your left hand and press the ear flap against the head, leaving the ear canal open. With your right hand, hold the medication.
Place a little amount of medication on the inside of the ear flap and the specified number of drops into the ear canal, whether using ointments or drops. To ensure that the medication enters the ear canal, insert the tip of the ointment tube or dropper a few millimeters into it. When the ear is stretched away from the head, the bend in the ear canal straightens, allowing the medication to be deposited throughout the ear canal. When the drug hits the inside of the ear, prepare the animal to react. Rub the base of the cat’s ear.
“DO NOT insert the ointment tube’s long neck as far as it will go down the ear canal as this could puncture the ear drum.”
Eye Medications
Even humans dislike eye medications, so giving them to an animal might be extremely difficult. You could suggest the following to pet parents to help them give their dog or cat eye drops.
- Make sure the animal is at ease and relaxed.
- To keep your cat in your lap while applying eye meds, drape your left forearm across the cat’s body. Hold the head with your left hand and pull down the lower eyelid with your left thumb.
- Hold the drug in your right hand while balancing your right hand’s heel on the cat’s head.
- On the other hand, hold the medicine bottle or dropper with the tip about 2cm above the eye. Drop the necessary amount of drops into the eye.
- Allow the eyelid to close, then place the flat of your hand over it to keep it closed.
If you are right-handed, cradle the head in one hand, generally the left. Massage the ointment around the surface of the eye with the eyelids closed to distribute it evenly.
Eye drops are also inserted in the pouch formed when the lower eyelid is forced down. Hold the head and draw down the lower eyelid as recommended in the section on applying ointments to the eye. Drop the required amount of drops into the pouch without allowing the bottle’s tip to come into contact with the eye. Eye drops spread quickly across the surface of the eye and does not need to be massaged across the eye.
Medication Tips for Pets
Here are some basic suggestions to help with medicine administration:
- Provide your pet with the whole prescription. Resist the temptation to discontinue antibiotics or pain medicine as soon as your pet begins to feel better. If you do not finish an antibiotic treatment, you may need to restart because the initial round did not completely treat the infection.
- When giving medicine to your pet, always keep an eye on his or her mood.
- Don’t try to push medication into a pain-affected dog or cat. If your pet becomes afraid or begins to grumble, take a break from the medication.
- When necessary, conceal the medication within a meal. You can utilize very tempting foods for the animal, such as cream cheese or peanut butter, etc.
Parasites that live outside the body are external parasites. Several parasites can affect dogs and cats, including fleas, lice, mites, and ticks, among others.
FLEAS
Fleas are wingless insects with long jumps. They subsist on draining your pet’s blood, but they can also bite humans. Fleas can be a seasonal or year-round nuisance depending on your climate. Fleas flourish in warm and humid climates. Fleas can be picked up by your pet anywhere there is an infestation, which is typically in locations frequented by other cats and dogs. Fleas have also been linked to blood-borne infections which can be very serious such as typhus and cat scratch disease.
It can transmit diseases to you and your family like:
- Lyme disease
- Tapeworms
- Mange
- Ringworm
You may notice your pet scratching or biting themselves excessively, as well as reddish skin, hair loss, and flea droppings on their coat. Scratching can cause open wounds and infections. Adult fleas are dark brown, about the size of a sesame seed, and can migrate quickly across your pet’s skin. When the flea develops, it spends almost all of its time on your pet. Some fleas contain tapeworms and can infect your pet as well.
Female fleas begin laying eggs 24 hours after selecting your pet as a host and can deposit up to 50 eggs every day. These eggs fall off your pet and land on the floor, furniture, including your pet’s bed, or any other indoor or outdoor area where your pet happens to be. The eggs develop into tiny, worm-like larvae that burrow into carpets, under furniture, or into the soil before spinning a cocoon. Cocooned flea pupae can remain latent (inactive) for weeks before emerging as adults ready to infest (or re-infest) your pet. As a result, depending on environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, flea life cycles can last anywhere from 12 days to 6 months.
Diagnosis, Risks, and Consequences
You may not realize your pet has fleas until their number grows to the point where your pet is uncomfortable. Flea symptoms range from minor redness to severe itching, which can result in open sores and skin infections (“hotspots”). The black flea droppings left on your pet’s coat are one of the first things you may notice on a flea-infested pet. Fleas may not be visible, yet they can still be found on your pet and in the environment. Because fleas are just about 1-2 millimeters long, they might be difficult to detect, but there are numerous techniques to check for fleas on your dog, including:
- Examine your dog’s neck, abdomen, and hindquarters for red, inflamed skin.
- To get a good look at your dog’s skin, comb his or her hair from back to front. Flea combs are sold in pet stores, but any fine-toothed comb will function.
- Fleas can be red or brown.
- If you observe a moving speck, it’s most likely a flea.
Fleas bite and suck the blood of animals, causing anemia in young or small pets with significant flea infestations. Some pets may develop an allergy to flea saliva, resulting in more acute irritation and scratching; these pets might become extremely itchy after only one or two flea bites. Pets can also become infected with certain species of tapeworms if they eat fleas that contain tapeworm eggs (a pet using its teeth to scratch the flea bites often eats the fleas). People may be bitten by fleas in places with moderate to severe flea infestations. While fleas can spread a variety of infectious diseases to dogs and humans, this is uncommon.
Treatment and Control
Based on your needs, your pet’s needs, and the severity of the flea infestation, your vet will recommend an appropriate flea management strategy for your pet. During the flea season, pets at risk for fleas should be treated with an effective preventive. Your veterinarian can prescribe the best product for your pet. Because the flea spends so much of its life cycle on your pet, treating merely your pet will not solve the problem. If you only destroy the adult fleas and not the eggs, larvae, and pupae, your pet will become re-infested when these fleas mature, and the cycle will begin again.
To kill the fleas, you may be advised to treat your home with insecticides; contact your veterinarian about products suitable for use around dogs and children. Flea larvae are more resistant to insecticides than adult fleas. You may also be advised to treat your yard if you have a moderate or severe flea infestation.
The following flea treatments are recommended for dogs:
- Oral Chewable Tablets:
These are an excellent choice for flea and tick prevention and treatment and are safe for both your dog and your family. Only your veterinarian can provide oral medications to treat fleas and ticks.
- Topical Therapies:
There are numerous spot-on flea treatments available, each with a varied level of potency and application range. We will assist you in selecting the most effective spot-on flea and tick medication for your dog at your next veterinarian consultation.
TICKS
Ticks can be found in woodland environments, brush, shrubbery, and wild undergrowth. Ticks in their larval stage frequently feed on small wild animals found in forests, prairies, and scrub. Adult ticks prefer larger hosts, such as dogs and cats, which visit these areas. Tick exposure may be seasonal, depending on where you live. Ticks are a major source of disease transmission in dogs, cats, and humans. There are hard ticks (Ixodidae sp.) and soft ticks (Argasidae sp. ), each with a variety of species. Each species has a distinct geographic range. The only tick that may complete its life cycle in your home is the “brown dog tick” (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), and major domestic infestations can occur.
Diagnosis, Risks, and Consequences
Ticks are most commonly found around your dog’s neck, ears, between the legs and the body, and between the toes, although they can be located anywhere on the body and are typically easily seen or felt. Ticks on cats’ necks and faces are common. Tick bites can irritate the skin, and large infestations can cause anemia in pets.
Ticks feed on the blood of the host and utilize small but strong teeth to securely attach themselves to the skin and tissue of a dog. Ticks can spread blood-borne infections because they can enter the bloodstream.
A female tick can consume up to 100 times her body weight in blood! Ticks can potentially transmit dangerous infectious diseases (such as Lyme disease) to the pets and people they feed on. Tick paralysis can also be caused by them. Disease risk varies according to geographical area and tick species.
Ticks create welts and bruises on dogs near the bite site. It is also typical for the tick to remain attached. Ticks on dogs can be treated using a variety of methods, including:
- Topological Applications
- Medications Taken Orally
- Tick Collars
Treatment and Control
Tick removal is critical because it reduces the risk of disease transmission from the tick to your pet. Ticks should be removed with caution, using tweezers to securely grab the tick as close to the pet’s skin as possible and gently and gradually pulling the tick off without twisting or crushing the tick. Crushing, twisting, or pulling the tick out of the skin while its head is still buried may result in the tick’s mouthpieces becoming lodged in your pet’s skin.
One of the most effective strategies to avoid infestation or re-infestation is to treat your yard and home for ticks and fleas. Among the ways to protect your yard are:
- Keep the lawn mowed and the shrubbery trimmed.
- Seal up any open locations where wild animals could nest. Food should not be left out for neighborhood animals such as feral cats or other vermin such as raccoons and opossums.
- There are effective over-the-counter flea and tick yard sprays available, but it is critical to consult with your veterinarian or landscaper first to ensure that these medications are safe for your pets if swallowed.