How in the world do fleas get to an inside-only kitten?

Many cat owners may think that because they have an indoor-only cat, it is impossible for their kitty to get fleas. Wrong! So now you might be wondering, How do indoor cats get fleas?

According to Lorie Huston, DVM, while an outdoor cat is more likely than an indoor cat to be infested with fleas (as well as ticks and intestinal worms), an indoor cat can, in fact, attract these parasites.

How Do Indoor Cats Get Fleas?

First, know this: A flea can jump 100 times its own height. That alone should tell you something about how sneaky they can be.

In a nutshell, anything, or anyone, can unknowingly bring a flea into your home. It is very easy for one of these buggers to jump on an article of clothing when you are outside. The flea thinks nothing of hitching a ride on your pants leg, sock or shoe.

Or perhaps your dog goes outside for a little playtime, picking up a flea or two before coming back in. Fleas are so tiny, they can even enter your home on their own, jumping through screens or coming in through the smallest cracks of a door or window.

Once inside, the flea jumps onto your cat. And that’s that, right? Well, not quite. There’s more to the story…

From 1 Flea to Hundreds

After a little feast on your poor indoor cat, the flea then jumps off to lay hundreds of eggs, which will quickly hatch, becoming hundreds of hungry larvae. Ick!

After a while, these larvae turn into adult fleas as well, ready to satisfy their thirst with the blood of your kitty. Thus begins another cycle.

The bad thing about this situation is that your indoor cat cannot get away from the blood-hungry critters. Regardless of how much kitty grooms, the fleas just refuse to go away. Anyone who has dealt with a flea infestation knows how rapidly this problem can be spread to other pets in your home.

Fleas can disrupt your feline’s happy-go-lucky lifestyle, possibly causing anemia and tapeworm infection. If your cat is continuously scratching or has any kind of skin problems such as sores, a flea may be partly to blame.

Treatment

Because they multiply so fast (eggs hatch in 3 to 10 days), fleas are difficult to treat. PETA suggests that rather than running out and buying the first flea shampoo you see on the shelf, you should chat with your veterinarian, who can recommend a treatment.

Worried about toxins in flea treatment products? Believe it or not, good old soap and water will kill fleas on a cat. An even better nontoxic solution is the lowly flea comb (it has very fine teeth) combined with the aforementioned soap and water.

Prevention

Check your cat daily for fleas. Even if you don’t actually see any, you may notice a few tell-tale signs that they are present: Their eggs and excrement (“flea dirt”) will resemble pepper or black sand on the fur.

One way of preventing a flea infestation to some degree is to vacuum your carpets often to suck up any stray fleas. Empty the vacuum cleaner bag/canister after each use. Fleas can reproduce right there inside the bag and sooner or later escape, ready to strike again.

If your indoor cat goes outside every now and then, you may find a spot-on monthly preventive such as Advantage or Frontline to be quite effective. These often control ticks as well.

References/Additional Resources

• Paris Revoir, DVM: Do inside cats need flea/tick prevention?
  
• Lorie Huston, DVM: Indoor vs. outdoor cats
• People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA): Safe solutions for flea control

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6ApJXiogvI

Source: How Do Indoor Cats Get Fleas?

Written by Gayle Hickman Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Learn how to remove cactus needles from dogs, and when to leave this task to the professionals.

Different types of cacti can grow all over the world, and certain areas of North America have high concentrations of the plant. Unfortunately for us, our four-legged friends can get the spines (needles) of cacti stuck in their eyes, mouth, feet, ears and numerous other places on the body.

The first thought on the sight of a needle-covered dog will have you running for the tweezers, but there are some spines you should leave for the professionals.

What You Need

A cactus spine should be treated as a puncture wound. The spines enter the skin and create an opening for bacteria. Before you start the removal process (if doing it yourself), gather some antibiotic ointment along with your removal tool of choice. Some use tweezers, while others who have hunting dogs prefer hemostats.

We also recommend that you start with a coarse comb to remove loose spines. Removed spines can cause blood to spurt out of the entry point; a styptic stick and gauze can be handy in case you run into this problem.

Removing Cactus Needles From Your Dog

Your pet’s first reaction may be to try and remove the spines with her mouth or by kicking her legs. The spines can become dislodged from the animal and stick into your skin, so keeping your pet calm and steady is important.

If you have someone who can help you, it will be easier to remove the spines. Your pet might also salivate or foam at the mouth if spines have penetrated that area.

Use the comb to remove any loose spines from the dog’s coat. The individual spines that remain should be removed using tweezers or forceps by pulling in the direction of the fur growth. Some spines may have been stuck in the skin at a sharp angle that does not follow the direction of the fur, and you will want to remove these as gently as possible without twisting or forcing the spine in the direction of the fur.

As you remove the spines, clean off any blood and stop bleeding at the entry point. If the dog has spines in different areas of the body, apply antibiotic ointment before moving on to another section. You may find it hard to pull out the spines or have a difficult time keeping your pet steady or calm. Depending on where a spine is stuck, loosening or removing the spine may cause excessive or continuous bleeding. In either instance, be prepared to visit your veterinarian’s office or local animal emergency room for further care and removal.

Ouch! Cactus attack!

In the Eye

If your dog was unfortunate enough to get a cactus spine in her eye, it’s best to leave the removal to the professionals. Not all eye punctures can require surgery, but visible spines and micro spines can be present in the eye and require extreme care upon removal.

Some spines may not need to be removed, but this should be determined by your veterinarian. Cactus spines are usually removed from dogs under general anesthesia; reconstructive surgery or grafts might also be necessary.

After removal and/or treatment, check the entry points for infection and apply antibiotic ointment as needed. If the area becomes swollen, discharges and does not improve, make an appointment to see your vet. Let’s hope your dog will learn to avoid a cactus in the future and keep you from being on pins and needles!

Photos: Zabowski (top), Jared/Flickr

Source: Ouch! Removing Cactus Needles From Your Dog

Written by Kristine Lacoste Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Learn how to tell if your cat is pregnant, even when it's not so obvious as with this cat.

If you have a female cat that has not been spayed, chances are you are familiar with the heat cycle that occurs and how frequently your cat experiences it. A break in the cycle might mean your cat is pregnant, but there are other symptoms that can be signs of an impending arrival of tiny furballs.

Symptoms of Pregnancy

Besides the heat cycle changing, your cat may have recently been outside, escaped or been around a male cat (tom cat) that was not neutered. If you suspect your cat might be pregnant or notice some new symptoms you can’t identify, see if they match these pregnancy symptoms:

• Swollen pink nipples (usually the earliest sign)
• Sleeping more
• Increased appetite
• Vomiting (some is normal; excessive vomiting requires a trip to the vet)
• Abdomen increases in size or belly starts hanging lower
• More affectionate
• Weight gain
• Seeks out quiet and/or secluded areas for birthing (closer to the end of pregnancy)

Your veterinarian can examine the cat and confirm pregnancy by feeling the abdomen carefully, and performing an ultrasound or hormonal test. The total time of a pregnancy is around nine weeks but can vary.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dw1U9MfYhJw

She’s Pregnant. Now What?

Once the pregnancy has been confirmed, you need to decide what to do based on how far along the cat is in her pregnancy. One option is abortion and should be discussed with your vet on its possibility and availability, and prepare to discuss this decision with other family members. The other option is to allow your cat to go to full term and deliver the kittens.

If you decide to allow the pregnancy to go to term, make arrangements for the kittens’ care in your home or contact local shelters or rescues to make arrangements. Assuming you’ve had the vet checkup and have discussed vaccinations and medical concerns, you’ll next need to look at dietary needs.

Your pregnant cat needs a nutrient-rich diet during her pregnancy and fresh, clean water at all times. As you get closer to her birth (about 2-3 weeks to go), add a high-quality food. Your cat will probably eat more often but in less quantities, so prepare for multiple feedings throughout the day. Keep your cat indoors during this time to minimize risks to her and her fetuses.

Potential Pregnancy Problems

Not every pregnancy goes as planned, and there are some risks involved that you should be prepared to address with a trip to the nearest animal emergency facility.

Eclampsia is a life-threatening condition with symptoms such as restlessness, pacing, panting, drooling, loss of coordination, muscle spasms or seizure-like movements. Secondly, the fetuses can abort naturally. Signs that this may have happened may include fever, bleeding, behavioral changes or other changes. Lastly, resorption occurs when the mother’s body absorbs the dead fetus.

Any of these instances are serious and need to be addressed by a vet immediately.

Did You Know?

• Cats can skip a heat cycle and may even show signs of pregnancy without being pregnant (false pregnancy).
• Naturally aborted fetuses may be eaten by the mother.
• Family members can and will mate if they have access to each other. It’s not about being brother and sister that matters to cats; it’s just about having the right equipment.

Photo: Jsome1/Flickr

Source: How Do I Know if My Cat Is Pregnant?

Written by Kristine Lacoste Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Learn how to identify mange in your dog.

Many people have heard about mange, but some still associate it with matted hair and dirty, smelly dogs. The truth is that clean and seemingly healthy dogs can have it too, and there are some symptoms that will alert you to its presence.

Mange is a skin disease caused by tiny mites. All dogs have mites but usually don’t encounter any problems. Others are not so fortunate and suffer from severe skin infections. Dogs can get mange from their mother through hereditary conditions or cuddling after their birth, while some dogs pick it up from others. There are three types of mange identified by the ASPCA.

3 Types of Mange

1. Localized: Localized mange affects one or more small or confined areas that cause bald or scaled patches resembling dots (usually on the face). This type of mange is common in puppies, and treatment in most cases is not needed.
2. Generalized: Generalized mange affects larger areas and can affect up to the entire body of your dog. This widespread form of mange can also be an indication of an immune system, hereditary or endocrine problem. Generalized mange can be accompanied by bacterial infections with excessive itching and odor.
3. Demodectic Pododermatitis: This type of mange is the most resistant and usually present in or on the feet. Dogs prone to foot mange include Old English sheepdogs and shar peis.

Symptoms

Now that you know the types of mange, how do you identify them? Not all mites will cause issues, but see your veterinarian if you notice these signs:

• Hair loss or bald spots
• Scabs or sores
• Excessive scratching but no fleas
• Offensive odor not noticed before
• Restlessness
• Skin redness or inflammation

The places these symptoms are most commonly noticed are the ear, elbow, legs and face.

Treatment

Your vet will need to examine and confirm whether your dog is suffering from mange. This is usually done through an exam and skin scrapings, although further tests may be necessary. Once the mange is identified, your vet may administer a medicated bath and dip followed by medication (orally, topically or by injection). Medications may be included to reduce itching and inflammation. Never administer medication to your pet on your own. Some skin applications can be toxic to your pet, so you should always check with your vet first.

Plan on isolating your dog from other animals to reduce the risk of spreading the mange, and clean all bedding and accessories your pet may have come into contact with. Improvement may take weeks to a month, and it is important to keep all vet appointments and medications administered as directed. Older dogs may require longer treatment periods.

Your friends, relatives, neighbors and just about anyone could have a pet with mange whose mites decided to jump ship and go for a ride on your dog. Do a visual check of any other dogs your pet may have come into contact with in case they are showing any signs as well. If you just notice a minor spot and want to try some home remedies, we have some suggestions.

Photo: odonata98/Flickr

Source: Identification and Treatment of Dog Mange

Written by Kristine Lacoste Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Happy birthday! (Now, how do you calculate dog years or cat years?)

I was always told, as I’m sure many of you were, that calculating the age of dogs and cats in “human years” was quite simple. It was said that all you needed to do was to multiply their age by seven. For example, a 4-year-old dog or cat would actually be 28 years old in human years.

But when you really begin weighing out the arithmetic, this method just doesn’t add up. Say a 1-year-old dog is the equivalent of a 7-year-old human — get out of here! How many 7-year-old humans are sexually active and capable of reproducing? Dogs and cats are much more likely to have babies at 1 year old or even at 10 years old, than any person who is 7 or 70.

Dogs

Aging is much faster during a dog’s first two years but varies among breeds. Large breeds, while they mature quicker, tend to live shorter lives. By the time they reach 5 they are considered “senior” dogs. Medium-sized breeds take around seven years to reach the senior stage, while small and toy breeds do not become seniors until around 10.

Many veterinarians agree that a pretty good guess on the age of pets can be made using the following formula. Although still simple, it is much more accurate than the seven-year method.

Assume that a 1-year-old dog is equal to a 12-year-old human and a 2-year-old dog is equal to a 24-year old human. Then add four years for every year after that. (Example: A 4-year-old dog would be 32 in human years.)

Since this method takes into consideration the maturity rate at the beginning of a dog’s life and also the slowing of the aging process in his later years, Martha Smith, director of veterinary services at Boston’s Animal Rescue League, feels that this is the more accurate calculation formula. Here is a chart, for easy reference:

A dog’s average lifespan is around 12 or 13 years, but again, this varies widely by breed. The larger your dog is, the less time it will live. Female dogs tend to live a little longer.

Cats

Now let’s take a glimpse at a simple formula for calculating feline age in human years.

Assume that a 1-year-old cat is equal to a 15-year-old human and a 2-year-old cat is equal to a 24-year-old human. Then add four years for every year after that. (Example: A 4-year-old cat would be 32 in human years.)

The following chart shows this formula of calculation:

Cats generally live 12 to 15 years, although outdoor cats live an average of only 10 years or so.

M-m-m. All this calculating information has me thinking about my sweet chihuahua, Angel. She is now 12 years old, so regardless of the method I choose to determine her age in human years, I realize that she is getting old. I can only hope that she is enjoying her senior years as much as my husband and I are enjoying having her around.

Source: How Do You Calculate Dog Years and Cat Years?

Written by Gayle Hickman Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Why is kidney failure so common in cats?

Many pet owners are never made aware that when they adopt a cat, the primary cause of feline death is renal (kidney) failure. Of course, nobody wants to consider death when they are bringing a new family member home. Cats as young as 3 have been diagnosed with kidney failure, but the condition is more common in older cats.

Symptoms of Kidney Problems

All cat owners should take the time to educate themselves about kidney problems. The more you know, the better chance you have of saving your cat if problems arise. Learn about the symptoms so that if your pet exhibits any of them, you can get veterinary help.

The first symptom that most people notice is that the cat is drinking much more water than usual. Often people think the cat is consuming more water because of the heat or perhaps something like the stress of a move or the inclusion of another pet. Anytime your cat begins to drink excessively, it is a sign that there is a veterinary problem. Contact your trusted vet immediately for an appointment.

The second symptom cat owners tend to notice is that they need to clean the litter box more frequently. With an increased intake of fluids, the cat will be urinating very often. By the time this symptom is noticed, the kidneys are usually three-quarters of the way not functioning.

Lack of appetite is another possible symptom.

My Cat Has These Symptoms

People who see these symptoms in their kitty should get their pet to the veterinarian’s office right away. The vet will perform some tests, and the kitty will probably need to spend the night there. Your vet will draw some blood and collect urine. She will then evaluate the results of the blood test and urinalysis.

Diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Failure

It’s devastating for pet owners to have their veterinarian inform them that their precious kitty has chronic renal failure. It is progressive and incurable. Some felines live for months or even years without any additional problems, while others are taken by this condition quite frequently.

Your vet will probably suggest that you change your pet’s diet to a minimal-protein and low-phosphorous diet that has added potassium. This can help to limit further deterioration and prolong the inevitable.

Can Kidney Failure Be Prevented?

Unfortunately, there is no foolproof way to prevent kidney failure in cats. There are conflicting opinions about causes. Some veterinarians suggest that there is a link between feline distemper vaccines and inflammation of the kidneys, which results in renal failure. Many vets (including my own) say they believe that annual feline distemper vaccinations for cats are unnecessary.

According to Eric Barchas, DVM, weight problems (obesity) can increase the risk of kidney disease.

One way to try to keep the kidneys healthy is to include wet food in the diet. A diet that consists solely of dry cat food and water isn’t good for the cat’s kidneys. According to Lisa A. Pierson, DVM, a cat fed only dry food “consumes approximately HALF the amount of water compared with a cat eating canned foods.” Dr. Pierson adds, “This is a crucial point when one considers how common kidney and bladder problems are in the cat.”

Adding wet food and cat milk (you can get this in most supermarkets) will give your pet the fluids needed to maintain a healthy body.

Additional Resources

• Lisa A. Pierson, DVM: Feeding your cat
• Eric Barchas, DVM: Kidney disease (chronic renal failure)
• Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Cat owner’s guide to kidney disease

 Photo: Murph & Billy/Flickr

Source: Why Is Kidney Failure So Common in Cats?

Written by Roseann Lahey Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

"Where is my toothbrush?"

Cats are curious and friendly by nature, and if yours is anything like mine, they can get up close and personal at times. If you notice a smell coming from your cat’s mouth that makes you wince, there may be a few reasons for the offensive odor.

Bad breath in a cat is usually a sign of a health problem. There are several causes and symptoms of feline halitosis, so check the mouth, diet and recent behavior for an indication of what might be ailing your pet.

Causes

The cause of your kitty’s bad breath could be as simple as plaque buildup, a stuck piece of food or a recent injury to the mouth area. Ingredients in the cat food you use can also be a factor, or your cat could be allergic to something in the food.

There have also been reports by cat owners that baby teeth were stuck in the cat’s mouth and harboring plaque and bacteria; the new teeth formed with the baby teeth still in place.

Some serious conditions could be causing Mr. Jingles to be a stinky kitty too. Periodontal disease or gingivitis could be plaguing the mouth area, or your cat may have recently bitten a live electrical wire.

Other possibilities, such as internal conditions, might include diabetes, kidney disease, liver disorder, respiratory disease, skin disease, gastrointestinal problems or neurological disease.

Symptoms

Your cat may be showing one or multiple symptoms in addition to the odor, and the symptoms could point to several causes.

• Red or swollen gums
• Sweet or citrus-smelling breath
• Excessive thirst
• Excessive urination
• Weight loss
• Ammonia-like smell
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen abdomen
• Yellowing eyes or gums
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Pawing at the mouth
• Loss of mouth control, difficulty opening or closing
• Lethargy
• Diarrhea

The first plan of action includes a trip to see your veterinarian. Once you are able to rule out any of the above symptoms and causes, a cleaning should be performed. Afterward you can start a regime of tooth brushing for your cat. Yes, you can brush your cat’s teeth!

How to Brush Your Cat’s Teeth

Never use a toothbrush or toothpaste designed for humans. Starter kits are available online or at your local pet store and include a pet-safe toothpaste, training cover for finger brushing and a brush to use once your cat gets accustomed to the process.

Cats don’t normally like their mouths forced open, so start with a little paste on your finger and apply to the outside of the teeth by pulling back the skin around the mouth. Try this once a day with your finger or the finger cover in the kit to get the cat accustomed to the process. If you still have your finger and your cat seems not to mind, try using the brush and working the inside of the teeth.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyudvKceI4A

Keep up this routine, and you will improve your cat’s health and reduce vet costs in the process. If your dog has the same problem, we recommend a similar solution.

Additional Resources

• WebMD Pets: Cats and bad breath
• Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Bad breath: Sign of illness?
• Deborah Britton, MS, DVM: Brushing your cat’s teeth

Photo: ErnestDuffoo/Flickr

Source: Phew! Symptoms and Causes of Bad Breath in Cats

Written by Kristine Lacoste Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Heartworm medication side effects in cats are rare.

Heartworms are worms that migrate and grow in the hearts and lungs of animals. Most commonly associated with cats and dogs, heartworms begin their cycle through infected mosquito bites as larvae and grow inside the animal. Some can grow to as large as 12 inches long and restrict the blood flow from the heart.

Cats generally have fewer heartworms than dogs, and theirs do not live as long. Heartworms live an average of two years in cats as opposed to 5-7 years in dogs. Cats are mostly affected by the damage done to the respiratory system, and it may take months or longer for symptoms to appear. The time elapsed from bite to internal larvae reproduction (adult larvae mating and producing additional larvae) averages around eight months in cats.

Below are the four preventive medicines most commonly used:

Interceptor (Novartis)

• Generic Name: Milbemycin Oxime
• Administration: Cats 6 weeks of age and up, weighing over 1.5 pounds (also dogs)

Revolution (Pfizer Animal Health)

• Generic Name: Selamectin
• Administration: Cats 8 weeks of age and up (also dogs)

Advantage Multi (Bayer)

• Generic Name: Imidacloprid, Moxidectin
• Administration:Cats 9 weeks of age and up, weighing more than 2 pounds (also dogs)

Heartgard Chewable (Merial)

• Generic Name: Ivermectin
• Administration: Cats 6 weeks old and up

Diagnosing Heartworm Disease

Heartworms can be present without any symptoms, but the most common one is mild to moderate asthma symptoms in cats, meaning difficulty breathing, coughing or wheezing. Other possible — but rare — symptoms may include:

• Lethargy
• Change in appetite or weight loss
• Unable to digest/keep food down
• Passing out/fainting
• Convulsions or seizure-type movements
• Difficulty seeing or loss of sight

Any out-of-the-ordinary symptoms should send you to your vet, but the above afflictions should not be ignored. Filter tests are not recommended since they rely on the adult female heartworm being present and can give a false negative. The feline’s body makes an antibody to defend against heartworms and a test is available that detects its presence. This test may also provide a false negative if the heartworms have not matured.

More reliable testing options include blood tests that can be done in the office and other batch tests that are sent (typically) to an outside laboratory. Heartworm testing in cats is also more involved than in dogs. Blood is sent out for antigen and antibody testing, chest films are made, and sometimes an echocardiogram is required.

Treatment

There is no safe treatment to eradicate heartworms in cats. Once heartworms have been identified, cats are usually administered monthly heartworm preventive medication and anti-inflammatory medication (these corticosteroids can help a great deal with the asthma-like symptoms). Follow-up visits will be necessary to monitor the success of the medications. In extreme cases where adult worms are occupying a large portion of the heart, surgery may be necessary.

Be sure to treat areas outside your home for mosquitoes and have a regular pest control solution to minimize future infections.

Side Effects

According to our own Dr. Debora Lichtenberg, VMD, side effects of feline heartworm preventive medicines should be evaluated by “risk assessment vs. prevention and, honestly, if it’s worth the cost to the owner. Most [veterinarians] don’t think too much about the side effects of the medications because of the high safety rate of them. But we do worry about making our clients pay for another product…. There is no product available yet that is effective against fleas, ticks and heartworms. So cat owners are often looking at purchasing two products a month if they want to protect against all three.”

Additional Resources

• American Heartworm Society
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• The Pet Guardian

Photo: MowT/Flickr

Source: Evaluating Heartworm Medications for Cats

Written by Kristine Lacoste Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Caring for a bird with splayed legs

Most birds have no trouble flying, climbing around their cages or perching on their favorite swings. But every now and then a bird is born with splayed legs. The bird may be unable to stand up straight, walk, perch or move around easily. You may find that the legs lean more to the sides than underneath the body, and this is referred to as splayed legs (sometimes called spraddle legs).

Causes

There are several causes of splayed legs in birds. The mother could have sat on the baby too heavily or too long, and the force and pressure caused the legs to bend and grow outward instead of underneath the body. Birds need sunlight to produce vitamins, and baby birds kept in nestboxes in dark corners may suffer from a vitamin deficiency that affects their growth.

There are bird foods that supplement this vitamin need, but not all provide enough nutrition. A lack of nutrition or supplements is another reason attributed to splayed legs. In addition to diet, not enough or incorrect bedding in the nestbox can add a risk of the legs being splayed. In fact, veterinarian Ron Hines, DMV, PhD, argues that this is far more likely to be the cause than a vitamin deficiency.

Genetics can also be a factor. This is most commonly seen with inbreeding; unless corrected, it can continue with future offspring. Other times a parent bird might notice the baby is different and refuse to care for it or place more emphasis on the other babies.

Prevention

If you do not have a bird with splayed legs, you can start working on prevention in young birds now. The feed should have a good amount of calcium and protein; check the feed you normally buy to make sure it is sufficient for the growth of the birds.

If you provide vitamin D3 as a supplement, check the amount and frequency you provide it so make it is enough for healthy growth. You can also ground up Tums and sprinkle it over their food if other forms are not available.

For more about calcium and vitamin D3 deficiencies in birds, we recommend the article “Why Birds Need Calcium,” by Jim Pearson.

Treatment

Babies and younger birds respond best to treatment since they are still growing. Older or fully developed birds may not be able to be treated, but you can consult with your avian veterinarian to determine what course of action (if any) can still be taken.

If you can determine that the weight of the parents on the baby is causing the legs to be pushed outward, add more bedding to address this problem. Is the nesting container too slippery to be grasped by the young bird? Fix this. Are the birds getting enough sunlight? Consider relocating the cage or providing a lamp that produces sunlight properties. Diet is also very important for growth; double-check that your feed and supplements are sufficient if you can’t find any other reason for the condition.

There are several creative ways to treat splayed legs:

• Pipe cleaners can be bent in a figure-8 shape around the bird’s legs to bring them closer together.
• Placing the bird’s legs in a small cup so they are straight underneath him can help straighten the legs.
• Use vet tape (tape or bandages that stick to themselves) to wrap around the legs and bring them closer together.
• Sticks or straight objects attached to the legs to straighten them can also be used, but be careful that the materials do not scratch the baby’s legs.
• Sponges can be used with holes cut out for the legs at the desired angle. This solution can provide a soft and safe alternative to correcting the bird’s legs. Unused makeup sponges can be cut to fit for this purpose.

Try one of the methods below in consultation with your vet. Note that older birds whose bones are fully developed and may not respond to these types of treatments can have surgery to cut and wire the bones. Discuss this option with your avian vet to decide if it’s necessary.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZT1hA6uINiE

Birds with splayed legs that can still move around, eat and be active can live normal and healthy lives. They may need additional or special perches, their nails clipped more regularly and extra care given to the pressure points caused on their body in different areas. These pets can still lead a happy life, so check with your veterinarian before you start any treatment. The younger the bird the better, so don’t delay treatment.

Photo: justtakenpics/Flickr

Source: Caring for a Bird With Splayed Legs

Written by Kristine Lacoste Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Know the best, most sensible way to get your pup back in shape.

Everybody knows that obesity can cause a host of health problems for people — but it also causes medical issues for dogs.

More and more people are becoming health conscious and watching what they eat and making sure that they get enough exercise. This is important for pet owners to do for their pups too. A recent study by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention shows that a staggering 54 percent of American dogs are overweight or obese, and the number is climbing. In other words, it’s an epidemic.

Because our beloved four-legged friends don’t live as long as we do, most doggie parents want to do all they can to ensure that their pet will have a long and healthy life.

The question is, what’s the best way to help your dog lose weight and get back in shape?

First, Get to the Vet

We’ve all seen the thousands of “get in shape” infomercials — especially around New Year’s — that boast instant six-pack abs or super-firm buttocks in 1 month. You don’t need to admit that you’ve watched any, but I’m sure that you’ve at least caught a glimpse. The only thing that they all, and I mean all, have in common is that they suggest that people see their doctor before starting any dieting or exercise regimen. This is absolutely true for your faithful friend too.

You should call your veterinarian and schedule an appointment for your dog. The veterinarian will do a complete evaluation of your pooch’s physical condition and let you know if he is healthy enough to start on an exercise program. A dog that appears to be overweight and not in optimum condition could have underlying health issues such as thyroid problems, diabetes or Cushing’s disease. It’s vital that you talk with the vet before changing anything in your dog’s schedule or diet. Your vet will also be able to provide pointers on dieting and exercise, and should be able to determine a target weight that is realistic.

Enter the Personal Trainer (You!)

All right, so you needn’t hire a personal trainer for your puppy, but you will need to act as his personal trainer. You will need to create a personalized plan for the conditioning routine. Naturally, all dogs are different and the exercise schedule for a chihuahua will be completely different from that of an Afghan hound.

Begin with increasingly longer walks. Do this at a brisk pace at first — no stopping to smell the roses every two minutes. This is a weight-loss walk, not a leisurely stroll. And warmups and stretches? Forget about ‘em. Dogs are built to run at a second’s notice. However, don’t overdo it or you’ll be carrying your poor dog home.

So, again, what we’re talking about here is a brisk walk, not a full-on run. There should be a little sweat on your forehead after a few minutes.

Additional exercise tips:

• Set aside time — at least 15 or 20 minutes daily — just for playing. Dogs need a lot of play time; and research has proven that this is also beneficial to you, as it will you reduce your stress levels. Throw a ball or a squeaky toy that your pup would love running after and picking it up. Or try a laser pointer; cats do not hold a monopoly on this fun toy, after all.
• Do you have a two-story house? Excellent. Then move your dog’s food dish either upstairs or downstairs to make him work at getting that food!

Sensible Snacking

Do not overindulge your dog with food. Especially avoid feeding scraps from the table. Because his digestive system is different from yours, your dog will tend to put on more weight from human food. Never overfeed your dog beyond his daily ration of food. You might find it helpful to use an automatic pet feeder with a timer. The timer is important; you don’t want a feeder that will dispense food every time your pet wants it.

And now, a word about snacks and dog treats…

Let’s face it; our sweet and lovable dogs love to snack. Come on. Admit it: You do too! We all like snacking. However, both canines and humans need to eat healthy snacks and not pig out on potato chips and milk bones all the time. We all feel the need to reward our precious friends with treats. It makes them happy, and it’s a small thing that we can do to make them feel special.

There are healthy options that will satisfy your puppy’s need to nosh without him packing on more pounds. Believe it or not, most dogs love baby carrots. They’re cold, crunchy and quite tasty. Celery sticks are also healthy and low in calories. These are great snacks that the both of you can enjoy. Healthy snacks for dogs are among the easiest ways to get your dog to lose weight sensibly.

Video Overview

Check out this quick video from Vet Vid, where April Miles, DVM, discusses the dangers of obesity in both dogs and cats:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ug0p2UR9E04

Additional Resources

• Association for Pet Obesity Prevention: Weight loss in dogs fact sheet with lots of helpful tips [PDF]
• Lorie Huston, DVM: Weight loss tips for dogs
• Gun Dog Magazine: Pre-hunt dog training in 30 days

Photo: Stewart Black/Flickr

Source: The Best, Most Sensible Way to Get Your Dog Back in Shape

Written by Roseann Lahey Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

A double dose of the merle gene can be deadly.

On a recent visit to my aunt’s home, my nieces and I took their dog to a local park for some exercise and playtime. We stumbled across a collie with a patchwork type of coloring, and my nieces wanted to know about the dog’s unusual markings.

A pattern, not a color, the merle gene dilutes the color of a dog’s coat, causing it to appear lighter, with patches of white, although prominence and variation is not always the same. Dark coats can appear to have a bluish tint to them and a blue color visible in the iris of the eyes.

Light-colored coats with the merle gene may have patches or tints of pink, orange or white; their eyes can be affected similarly or appear blue. The nose and paws can also be affected by the color variations. Some merle dogs are odd-eyed, with one blue and one brown eye — or sometimes blue and brown in one eye.

Breeds most notably affected by the merle gene include: shepherds, collies, sheepdogs, dachshunds, pomeranians, chihuahuas, pit bull terriers, cocker spaniels and great danes.

A single merle gene can produce results as harmless as fur or eye color and as difficult as loss of eyesight or hearing. However, mating two dogs with the merle gene can produce offspring with a homozygous double merle gene, sometimes known as “lethal white” or “double-blue.”

Dogs with the double merle gene are mostly white and usually deaf, blind or both. The possibility of other physical limitations and conditions remain, such as a dog being born without eyes, paws or other vital organs.

Some breeders will breed single merle gene carriers with non-merle gene carriers in an attempt to obtain the unique blue-merle color, while reducing the possibility of vision or hearing deficiencies. If you do get your dog from a breeder that is aware of the merle gene in their dogs, be sure to ask about the parents and the offspring.

If you plan on breeding a dog with the merle gene, you should not breed it with another of similar genetic makeup. If lucky, the dog will be colorful and healthy, but there is a substantial chance that the double merle gene offspring could be blind, deaf or both. In other words, don’t do it! A pretty coat is nice, but is it worth the risk?

This blue merle pup is not only healthy, but also fast and smart!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqWrdd2j2PA

Photo: 10 Ninjas Steve/Flickr

Source: The “Lethal White” Double Merle Gene Decoded

Written by Kristine Lacoste Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Health and Illness

This is part 4 of a multi-part series. (To begin at part 1, click here.)

Guinea pigs, like any other animals, can live their lives happy and healthy with the right support. When it comes to sickness, guinea pigs have many possible illnesses and conditions and require an experienced veterinarian.

Weight Up

Cavy owners swear by the scale. It is important to weigh your guinea pig every day to look for weight changes. Usually the first sign of illness will appear as a weight loss, and watching the weight consistently will give you a good idea of your pet’s average range. Keep a small notebook or chart near the scale and note the weight any time it is checked. Some changes in weight can be small initially but continue, and you want to be able to see if weight is decreasing or increasing over a longer period.

Environment, Food and Safety

As discussed in our previous articles, a proper environment should be clean, safe and designed specifically for guinea pigs. Your pet can be bathed with baby or small pet shampoo, just make sure to rinse and fully dry before returning them to their cage. Keep the nails clipped regularly and watch the length of the teeth for eating problems.

Their diet must contain the appropriate foods and treats to keep them healthy and clean water given daily. Safety is important for the cavy’s environment and their interaction with other animals and handling by owners.

Other animals can cause injury or death, and sometimes just the stress of being threatened by another animal can leave a guinea pig susceptible to illness. Always monitor these interactions and ensure your pet has a safe place available to hide when needed.

Routine Checkups

Don’t expect to put your guinea pig on the scale, match the weight with yesterday and replace in the cage. Other symptoms can be warning signs for illness, and it’s important to look for them every day. These changes can be behavioral or physical, and the more attention you pay to your pet the sooner you will notice them. Some of the most notable changes are:

• Hiding most of the time
• Chewing habitat bars
• Over-grooming or patches of hair missing
• Lack of appetite
• Drinking water excessively
• Reluctant to move
• Pacing their habitat continuously
• Toilet habits change
• Open sores
• Sneezing, coughing or wheezing

Pay attention to me!

Stress increases the vulnerability to disease and other illnesses. If you notice any of the above symptoms or anything out of the ordinary, check the weight and look for other signs. Check hair for matting, eyes for excessive drainage and the color and consistency of the droppings. You should also consider quarantining your pet from other cavies in case the illness is contagious. Make an appointment with your vet to get it checked out; often times the animal can die from delayed care.

If there is any activity that causes your pet to squeak, such as during urination, movement, eating or other activities, check them thoroughly and make an appointment with your vet. Guinea pigs feel pain but often do not show it visibly. The above symptoms or their vocal outbursts may be trying to tell you something.

Beating the Bugs

The most commonly prescribed medicine for guinea pig illnesses are antibiotics, but not all drugs are safe for your animal. Make sure your vet is trained and experienced with guinea pigs, and always check any prescribed medication before administering it to the animal. Guinea pigs should never be given certain medications since they can cause illness or death, especially penicillin-based drugs.

Never assume your vet is experienced with guinea pigs. Always ask about their training, experience treating them and if they have any other patients like yours. If they do not, ask for a recommendation for another vet or find your own.

Vets that are listed as exotic animal veterinarians may have more experience than the neighborhood animal facility and some areas might just be too rural for a qualified vet. Be familiar with the signs if illness and be prepared to travel a distance if needed. Just don’t delay in getting your guinea pig the care it needs by dismissing the symptoms. By the time you notice them it may be a critical situation. When symptoms arrive, it’s time to drive.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8Tpn0ftbm8

Additional Resources

• List of illnesses
• What to expect at the vet
• Toxic holiday plants

Keep reading! In the final part of this series on guinea pig care, I discuss the guinea pig communities and replies from real owners.

Photos: Plastic_Bat (top), kitkatherine/Flickr

Source: Guinea Pig Care Guide, Part 4: Health and Illnesses

Written by Kristine Lacoste Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Roundworm infection and treatment for cats

Ring around the rosy isn’t fun with worms, and these parasites can cause serious harm to your pet and your family. The roundworm is a common pest that can try to make a new home inside the family cat, and we explain what you need to know.

What They Are

Roundworms and tapeworms are parasites that infect cats and kittens. Roundworms are string-like parasites that are typically white in color and can grow up to 15cm long. Tapeworms are wider, resemble tape or ribbon and can grow much longer to 60cm. The parasites live in the intestines and feed off the food passing through the cat.

Parasitic Damage

The parasites can cause loss of blood, competition for food resulting in malnutrition, diarrhea, constipation, stunted growth in kittens and dehydration, and can weaken the cat’s immune system. Severe infections may add other symptoms, such as coughing or weight loss, and in some cases an extreme infestation can cause pneumonia or death.

Kittens are more at risk for death from an infection and can get the worms from their mother’s milk. There is also a possibility that the roundworms can lay eggs and multiply so large that the intestine is completely blocked. The eggs are released into the feces and wait to infect another animal. Eggs can also hatch inside rodents or people until passed to a new host. Eggs are also commonly found in dirt that may have mixed with feces in the environment.

Tapeworms are attached at the head inside the intestines and grow in connected segments with eggs inside. These parasites are most commonly distributed by fleas picking it up from feces. Cats can swallow a flea during grooming and become infected. Certain stages of the worms might also leave them infectious but lying dormant for years.

Human Risk

Ascariasis is the term given to intestinal parasites in humans. This is typically transmitted by handling soil that may have been infected by feces of an infected animal or human. It is especially common for children to be exposed to ascariasis since they are more likely to play outside. The canine version of this parasite can cause serious discomfort and blindness in some cases, so proper and regular hand washing is essential for children and adults.

Treatment

Consult your veterinarian as soon as you acquire a cat for immunizations and required preventive treatments. Worming treatments are given once or twice a year, but more frequent treatments can reduce the risk of infection. Kittens require more frequent treatments, and your veterinarian can suggest a schedule for the remaining applications.

Examples of roundworm and other parasites

If your cat does have roundworms, medicine from your vet should be administered in two applications over a two-month period. Adult roundworms are affected by the medication but eggs are larvae are not. The additional treatment at a later date allows time for those to mature and grow into adult worms. The second treatment should eliminate the roundworms, but continue to pay close attention to your cat for symptoms as a precaution.

Many over-the-counter products for home use kill different types of worms. While this fast and simple solution may be appealing, you may end up administering medication that is ineffective for the type of worms your cat is hosting. If that doesn’t work, you’ll end up at the vet anyway. Save yourself the time and expense and make the vet your first stop.

Treatment for parasites in humans is in drug form and can be obtained from visiting your physician. The drugs usually remove the infection within a few days. Do not ingest animal treatments or any other form of parasite removal products. Not all products are designed for specific worms or species, and taking the wrong medication can result in injury or death.

Proper hand washing, steering clear of feces and teaching children sanitary habits can help reduce the risk of being infected. Always have a schedule for your cat’s immunizations and treatments and stick to them. Your cat and your body will thank you.

Photos: AnxiousNut (top), Ryan Somma/Flickr

Source: Roundworm Infection and Treatment for Cats

Written by Kristine Lacoste Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Question: My dog regurgitates 95 percent of the time after she eats her “breakfast,” the first meal of the day. There’s never a problem after she eats other meals. She’s now on a special diet, but that hasn’t helped.

My vet suggested a surgery to cut the sphincter muscle. Does this make sense to you? — T. M., Orlando, Fla.

Dr. Colin Burroughs, an internal medicine specialist and chair of the small animal clinical science department at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, says the surgery you speak of requires cutting the muscle at the junction of the stomach and small intestine. It’s an appropriate surgery when that muscle has grown too much, and won’t relax, therefore preventing the stomach from emptying.

However, this condition, called pyloric hypertrophy, is typically seen in only a few breeds, mostly miniature and toy dogs. Also, dogs with this condition usually vomit several hours after eating, as opposed to immediately after a meal. “Consider verifying the diagnosis with a board-certified specialist in internal medicine,” Burroughs said.

Your dog may simply be scarfing down her first meal too fast. Try feeding her that first meal from Kong, Busy Buddy or Dogzilla toys. These are toys that you pour kibble into. Dogs have to roll the toys for the kibble to fall out. Aside from being fun, it’ll slow down your dog’s eating habits since only a few pieces of kibble fall out of the toys at a time. If your dog is on moist food, split up her morning meal into four portions and place each part in a dish in various places around the house.

Aside from the fun of searching out her food — and additional exercise — she’ll be able to inhale only a quarter of the food she did previously. There’s no downside to slowing down her food intake, and doing so might just solve your dog’s problem.

This article originally appeared at WebVet.com with the title “Why Does Our Dog Vomit After Breakfast?” It was written by Steve Dale and reviewed by Amy I. Attas, V.M.D. Photo: CowCopTim/Flickr

Source: Dog Frequently Vomits After First Meal of the Day

Written by WebVet Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Thyroid problems in cats: Wembly was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism.

An overproduction of thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) is the most common hormonal disparity experienced in cats. While hyperthyroidism can develop in cats as young as 4, it is more common in older cats, especially those around 12 or 13.

Feline thyroid problems are believed to stem from environmental, nutritional and immunological factors, all of which play a role in developing tumors. The tumors, in turn, stimulate the glands to produce increased thyroid hormone. There are no known genetic tendencies for hyperthyroidism.

According to Clinical Endocrinology of Dogs and Cats, all felines are possible candidates for getting the condition, regardless of breed or gender.

Symptoms of Thyroid Problems in Cats

The symptoms of this condition vary widely. It is unusual for a mass to be noticeable to the naked eye, as the tumorous glands remain small. Many organ systems can be affected, which brings about the various symptoms.

More than half of affected cats experience weight loss, increased appetite, heart murmurs or raised heartrates. Other common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include vomiting, increased thirst and urination, and increased activeness. On the flip side, lack of appetite, little energy, respiratory problems or diarrhea can also be an alert to possible thyroid problems in cats.

A “classic scenario” of hyperthyroidism in felines would be a skinny, hyperactive old cat with a ravenous appetite as well as increased urination — a senior cat that looks very tense and has a low stress tolerance. But in about 10 percent of cases, that scenario would be quite the opposite: The cat might seem sluggish and have no appetite. The latter scenario represents the final stage of the disease (referred to as apathetic), and possibly signals cardiac disease as well.

Video Overview

Watch this quick video from Karen Becker, DVM, which offers a basic understanding of the illness. After the video, we’ll discuss treatment and prognosis.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3RaoQIuYas

Diagnosis

Once your veterinarian suspects hyperthyroidism, she will check both of the thyroid lobes. Usually they will be enlarged. However, enlargement of the lobes does not necessarily mean that hyperthyroidism is the culprit; final diagnosis should depend on a direct measurement of thyroid function, involving blood testing. If the blood tests are not conclusive enough, a nuclear medicine scan of the thyroid glands may have to be performed.

Treatment

There are three types of traditional medical treatments available for hyperthyroidism:

1. Lifelong oral medication: Anti-thyroid drugs can be effective. But it is important that the feline is given the medication as long as she lives. Untreated, the condition can lead to congestive heart failure.
2. Surgery: Surgical removal of the thyroid gland is best if only one gland is affected. Even then, a complication can occur if the remaining gland becomes successively hyperactive.
3. Treatment with radioactive iodine: For this procedure, the cat will have to be hospitalized for several days, maybe even a few weeks, to allow the radioactive material to clear before the cat is handled by family members. Once your cat returns home, your veterinarian will advise you on precautions that will need to be taken to reduce your pet’s risks of having a toxic reaction to the radioactive treatment.

Mark Peterson, DVM, who spent more than three decades at Animal Medical Center in New York, hails the benefits of radioactive iodine in this video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MBEYow_mL4

All of the available treatment options should be discussed with your veterinarian before deciding which option is best for your situation.

Long-term Outlook

In cats without severe cardiac problems, the prospects of returning to a healthy condition are excellent, although recurrence may show up over a period of time.

In ending, let me remind you that older cats with thyroid problems often also suffer from kidney disease. Strangely, hyperthyroidism can actually improve kidney function, so some cats with kidney disease may show a worsening kidney function after treatment for overactive thyroid glands. Discuss any kidney problems your cat may have with your veterinarian, as she may recommend monitoring the cat’s kidney functions.

Of course, this is just a general overview, and I am not in the business of dispensing medical advice. To learn more about thyroid problems in cats, strike up a conversation with your veterinarian, who is best equipped to advise you on your particular situation.

Additional Resources

• Jeff S. Stortz, DVM, and five other vets: Feline hyperthyroidism article
• Lorie Huston, DVM: Hyperthyroidism in cats
• American Association of Feline Practitioners: Brochure on hyperthyroidism in cats

Photo: young and with it/Flickr

Source: What You Ought to Know About Thyroid Problems in Cats

Written by Gayle Hickman Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.