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Pet Care

When is a dog considered a senior?

by admin May 22, 2024

written by admin

How old is a senior dog?

The age at which your dog becomes a senior varies greatly depending on the dog’s breed. Large dog breeds typically age faster. Here is a general guide:

Small breeds are considered senior dogs around 10-12 years old.

Medium breeds are considered senior dogs at about 8-9 years old.

Large and giant breeds are considered senior dogs at around 6-7 years old.

Signs That Your Dog is Getting Old

When pet owners ask us, ‘What age is a dog a senior?’, many are concerned about when they might see symptoms of aging in their beloved pets.

Your dog’s physical appearance as well as their behavior will change as they age. While the hair around their muzzle will gradually become grey, this is a natural progression of aging and does not require any specific veterinary care. However, other changes may be more drastic and additional vet care may be needed depending on the circumstances.

Some signs that your dog is getting older include:

Loss of muscle tone
Reduced heart, kidney, and liver function
White hairs on the muzzle and face
Joint and arthritis issues

Hearing and/or vision loss
Tooth loss or gum disease
Sleeping more or difficulty sleeping
Reduction of mental acuity

Care Requirements for Senior Dogs

Fortunately, there are many things you can do to help your dog feel more comfortable as they age.

Proactive Vet Care

Our veterinarians in Los Angeles believe that proactive, preventive care is key to helping your pet live a long, healthy life. By scheduling routine wellness exams for your senior dog, you’re giving your vet the opportunity to screen for any emerging geriatric conditions or health issues, and begin treatment as soon as possible if required. Your veterinarian will also ask about your senior dog’s diet, nutrition, and mobility, and make beneficial recommendations for adjustments to your pooch’s exercise or diet.

Nutritional Needs

Your dog’s nutritional needs will change as they age due to their overall health and changes in exercise. Once your senior dog has slowed down they will become prone to weight gain that can cause other health issues, including joint pain and cardiovascular conditions. Speak to your vet about adjusting your dog’s daily calorie intake or switching to a food that is specifically formulated for weight loss.

Your vet may recommend feeding your dog a particular brand of dog food or nutritional supplements to help them continue a healthy diet as they age.

A good diet and proper nutrition will be of great physical benefit to your dog and may be able to help your dog maintain their cognitive function as they age. Dogs, just like humans, can suffer from dementia or Alzheimers-like conditions. Feeding your dog that is high in omega-3 fatty acids, along with providing them with proper exercise, may help them maintain mental alertness.

Physical & Mental Exercise

Physical activity remains just as, if not more important as your dog moves into the later years of their life. Regular exercise is important for them to maintain their health as well as to keep their joints healthy. However, you may have to adjust the forms of exercise you are providing for your pup. For example, if you notice your dog is having difficulty with the long walks they once loved, try taking your dog for more shorter, more frequent walks.

At all stages of life, mental stimulation is incredibly important. It’s never too late to teach your pup a new trick or bring home a new puzzle. There are a variety of options available for problem-solving activities for dogs. One example is a puzzle feeder that makes your dog work to figure out how to get their kibble.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet’s condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

May 22, 2024 0 comment

Dog

The Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs

by admin May 22, 2024

written by admin

At what age are dogs considered geriatric or elderly?

Because every dog’s personality, needs and circumstances are unique, we are not able to provide a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. A dog’s anticipated lifespan can vary depending on size and breed.

Generally, small dogs can be expected to live between 15 and 20 years, while larger dogs age faster and are considered “older” by the time they turn six years old.

Does my senior dog have specific nutritional requirements?

We recommend keeping two main criteria in mind when seeking the best dog food for senior dogs.

First, check that it’s low in calories. Similar to people, a dog’s metabolism will slow as they age, which is why it’s important to prevent our canine companions from eating too much or too quickly to prevent obesity.

Second, integrate high-fiber options into their diet. Constipation is a fairly common issue for senior dogs and may lead to more serious gastrointestinal issues if it becomes severe enough. It can also be painful.

Maintaining the health of your older dog’s gastrointestinal system should be a high priority, so the best dog food for older dogs will contain a significant amount of fiber to keep them regular.

What should I do if my senior dog won’t eat?

We sometimes see older dogs that have lost at least some of their appetite. Causes for a sudden reduction in or loss of appetite vary widely in both severity and scope; your dog may be experiencing simple nausea due to gastrointestinal issues, or they may be suffering from symptoms of cancer.

If your senior dog has suddenly begun to exhibit an unexplained loss of appetite, speak with your vet to have them rule out any potentially serious causes, including diabetes, dental disease, cancer or kidney disease.

Once serious medical issues have been ruled out as the cause for your pooch’s appetite loss, another food avenue for consideration is the simplest one – your dog may simply be tired of their regular food.

Adding some water, chicken broth, or a small amount of canned food to your dog’s dry kibble may help make it more enticing. You could also try preparing a simple meal of cooked chicken and barley or cooked lamb and rice. These home-cooked meals are both bland enough to sit well with them if there is another dog and bland enough to sit well with them if your dog is an older sibling or is experiencing new nausea.

Which health issues does the best dog food for senior dogs help prevent?

If your senior dog suffers from health conditions such as diabetes, liver disease or kidney failure, he or she will likely need a special diet prescribed by your vet to help manage the condition. If your dog is sick and you are worried about any potential effects of their diet, it’s possible to consult your vet.

Best Dog Food for Older Dogs

Our team at Washington Dog and Cat Hospital has compiled this list of some of the best types of dog foods for senior dogs. Ask your vet which senior dog food is best for your pet.

Prescription Dog Food

Depending on your dog’s specific health condition and circumstances. In some cases, a medical prescription dog food may be the best option for your senior pup. In other circumstances, your vet may simply recommend you switch to a healthier alternative.

Low-Calorie Dog Food

Dogs that are at higher risk for heart disease (or who have already been diagnosed with it). That’s why your vet may recommend a low-calorie dog food – it will help keep your pup’s weight down. Low-sodium recipes are preferred.

High-Fiber, Low-Fat Dog Food

Our veterinarians in Los Angeles recommend owners of pre-diabetic or diabetic dogs place a high priority on the slow absorption of food. Blood sugar tends to rise more slowly with special diabetic diets, reducing the risk for health complications. These diets are also exceptionally high in fiber and low in fat.

As mentioned previously since older dogs commonly struggle with constipation, the higher amount of fiber, the better. This will help to prevent constipation and keep their bowels working regularly.

Dog Food High in Protein

Many senior dog foods will also contain higher quality protein sources than standard dog food, which can help senior dogs maintain a healthy body weight without putting unnecessary strain on their aging kidneys.

Limited Ingredient Dog Foods

If your senior dog has allergies, your vet might recommend limited ingredient dog foods, which include just a single protein source (such as chicken, beef or lamb), often combined with one carbohydrate source.

This can be used to eliminate allergens that might be causing allergic reactions or symptoms. When looking for limited ingredient dog foods, it’s important to check for the Association of American Feed Control’s (AAFCO) seal of approval, in addition to a “complete and balanced” claim from the manufacturer.

May 22, 2024 0 comment

Cat

Old Cats: Caring for Senior Cats

by admin May 22, 2024

written by admin

A Cat’s Age in Human Years

Much like their humans, every cat will experience aging differently. Many cats start to undergo physical changes between the age of 7 and 10 years old, and most will have begun this process by about 12 years old. While many people subscribe to a common rule of thumb that one “cat year” is equivalent to seven “human years”, this isn’t quite accurate. Instead, we should keep in mind that by the time a cat is one year old, they will have developed along the same timeline as a 16-year-old human.

At two years old, a cat is more similar to a human between 21 and 24 years old. After that, each year for a cat equals roughly four human years (for example, a 10-year-old cat = a 53-year-old human; a 12-year-old cat = a 61-year-old human; a 15-year-old cat = a 73-year-old human, and so on).

Once your cat is 11 years old, they will be considered a “senior”. If your kitty is over 15 years old, you’ll be caring for a “super senior” cat. It is sometimes helpful to think of a cat’s age in human terms when caring for senior cats, as this may help you to better understand potential health issues in relation to years lived.

Aging Cats

You may see your cat experience many changes in their behavior and physicality as they age, just like their humans. While aging is not a disease in itself, keeping your vet updated about changes in your senior cat is one way you can ensure they receive the most comprehensive veterinary care in their twilight years. Some changes to watch for include:

Physical Changes

Grooming & Appearance

As cats age, they may become less effective at grooming for a few reasons, and their fur may become oily or matted. This can lead to inflammation, painful hair matting and skin odor. Senior cats’ claws are also often brittle, thick, or outgrown, and will need more attention from their caregivers. You might also notice the iris (the colorful part of a cat’s eye) develops a lacy appearance or slightly hazy lens. While there is little evidence that a cat’s sight is significantly impacted by this, several diseases such as those related to high blood pressure can severely and irreversibly impair a cat’s ability to see.

Unintentional Weight Gain or Loss

Weight loss in older cats can point to numerous internal health issues such as kidney problems, diabetes, and heart disease.

Aging cats may also be at risk for dental diseases, which can inhibit eating and lead to weight loss and malnutrition. Oral health problems can also cause significant pain in your cat’s mouth.

Physical Activity & Abilities

Arthritis or degenerative joint disease often becomes an issue for older cats who may have difficulty accessing food and water bowls, litter boxes and beds.

If your kitty needs to climb stairs or jump to specific heights to reach essential places such as a sleeping spot or litter box, these may not be as accessible to them.

While your cat’s sleep patterns may change as they age, a significant increase in sleep or depth of sleep may warrant contacting your vet. A great increase in energy may indicate hyperthyroidism and should also be investigated. Hearing loss is also a common health issue in senior cats for many potential reasons. These should all be checked by your veterinarian.

Behavioral Changes

Cognitive Issues

If you notice that your cat has started being confused by tasks or objects that are part of their daily routine, this may be a sign of issues with memory or cognition. Behavioral changes such as litterbox accidents or avoidance, new or increased human avoidance, wandering, excessive meowing, and seeming disorientated, are also potential signs of mental confusion or feline senility and should be examined by your vet.

Issues Caused by Disease

A cat may become aggressive due to pain from health issues like dental disease or arthritis, so keeping an eye on your cat’s mood is important because cats tend to hide discomfort. Diseases and disorders affecting urination (e.g. diabetes, kidney failure) can cause an increase in litterbox usage, which may lead to cats eliminating in inappropriate areas. Cats that are experiencing mobility problems due to joint inflammation may have challenges accessing or even climbing into their litterbox, especially if stairs are involved. This may also lead to your senior cat eliminating in inappropriate places and should be addressed by a vet.

Caring for Senior Cats

When it comes to looking after a senior cat, they will have different care requirements than kittens or even middle-aged cats. Your observations are some of the most important tools available to help keep your senior cat happy and healthy. Incorporating simple changes to your grooming, feeding, and general interactions with your cat can be a low-pressure way to watch for any changes in your aging pet.

Grooming

Brushing your cat’s fur, trimming their claws, and brushing their teeth are great ways to keep older cats clean and healthy, while also checking for changes in their fur, skin, nose, eyes, ears, and claws.

Nutrition

A lot of cats get heavy or even obese as they get older, which can be controlled with diet and activity if the weight gain is non-medical. Other weight issues include elderly cats being underweight, which may be caused by a variety of medical conditions and should be assessed by a veterinarian.

Home Life

Older cats can be more sensitive to changes in routine or household, which can lead to stress. Patience and accommodations (extra affection, a favorite toy or blanket, a quiet room for them to stay in) go a long way to helping your senior cat adjust to upsetting changes. Don’t forget to keep playing with your cat as they age; mental and physical stimulation is beneficial for their well-being.

Vet Care

Because cats are adept at hiding illness until it is advanced or severe, it’s important to take them regularly to the vet for wellness checks even if they seem perfectly healthy. Your veterinarian will also be able to monitor any conditions that your senior cat may have, and catch any potential or emerging issues early when they’re more treatable. their behavior and health.

Vet Care for Senior Cats

Your knowledge of your cat and your observations are an important resource for your vet, as are regular wellness examinations. Depending on your cat’s needs (e.g. if they have a medical condition), your vet may suggest increasing the frequency of physical evaluations. A wellness examination of a senior cat includes the vet checking the cat’s weight, skin & fur condition, organ systems, and behavior, and running diagnostic tests for certain conditions that are common in older felines.

The combination of homecare and cooperative veterinary care is a great way to help ensure your senior cat has a healthier, happier life with you and your family.

May 22, 2024 0 comment

Dog

Common Dental Problems in Dogs

by admin May 22, 2024

written by admin

Your Dog’s Oral Health

Your dog’s dental health is closely linked to their general health. Your pup uses their teeth, mouth, and gums to both eat and communicate, so when the oral structures become damaged or diseased, they may not function properly anymore and a dog may suffer from pain that interferes with their ability to effectively eat and vocalize.

Infections and. bacteria can cause many oral health issues, then spread beyond your dog’s mouth into other areas of their body. Left untreated, these bacteria and infections can damage vital organs including the heart, kidneys, and liver. This may lead to even more serious negative consequences for your canine companion’s health and longevity.

This is one of the reasons regular pet dental care is such a critical aspect of your dog’s routine preventive healthcare – regularly scheduled dental cleanings can prevent health issues, or help your vet identify and treat developing issues early.

How to Spot Dental Problems in Dogs

Particular symptoms will vary based on the issue your dog is experiencing. However, there are some signs to watch for that indicate your dog may be suffering from a dental disease. These symptoms can include:

Visible tartar
Bad breath (halitosis)
Difficulty or slow eating
Pawing at the teeth or mouth

Loose or missing teeth
Excessive drooling
Weight loss
Swollen, bleeding or noticeably red gums

Have you noticed any signs of dental disease in your dog that are listed above? If so, make an appointment for a dental examination with your Los Angeles vet as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to positive prognoses for dental diseases in dogs, and better outcomes for their long-term health.

Common Dog Dental Problems

Several potential health issues can affect your dog’s teeth, gums, and oral structures. Here are a few conditions we commonly diagnose in dogs.

Plaque & Tartar Buildup

Plaque is primarily made of bacteria. This whitish biofilm develops on the teeth and is accompanied by a bad odor that grows worse the longer it stays in the mouth. Plaque buildup can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

If teeth are not brushed and plaque removed within about 24 to 48 hours, plaque then hardens and forms into tartar, a yellow or brown-colored substance your veterinarian may refer to as calculus. Tartar sticks to the surfaces of the teeth and cannot be removed without being scraped with a dental scaler or other hard object.

Tartar causes tooth decay and gum irritation to grow worse. Plaque and tartar leave your dog at high risk for tooth loss and gum disease. Common signs include discolored deposits on teeth, a red, swollen gum line (referred to as gingivitis) and bad breath. Owners may notice more frequent bleeding gums and worsening breath as dental disease progresses.

Periodontal Disease

When plaque and tartar remain in the mouth, bacteria gets under the gum line, eroding tissue and bone that hold your dog’s teeth in place. Periodontal disease starts with gingivitis. Loss of soft tissue and bone surrounding the teeth occurs as the disease becomes more advanced. The teeth’s support structures degrade and pockets develop around the tooth roots.

This allows bacteria, debris and food to accumulate here and dangerous infections to develop. Over time, the teeth loosen and start to fall out.

Oral Infections

If periodontal disease develops, bacteria can make its way into the open space around tooth roots, leading to infection, which may manifest as a tooth root abscess.

Pus then develops in the bacteria-laden pocket around the tooth to fight the infection. Left untreated, the abscess may become so large that it leads to swelling in the face and anatomical deformity.

While oral infections are often caused by periodontal disease, they often happen secondary to trauma in the mouth. Trauma may be due to injury from chewing on hard or sharp objects.

Tooth Fractures

Dogs that are powerful chewers can fracture their teeth chewing on very hard plastic, antlers or bones. Most vets will recommend against allowing your dog to chew on anything harder than what you would want to bang hard on your knee.

Size of chews can also factor into the occurrence of tooth fractures – a chew that’s too large for a dog’s mouth may make the tooth and chew line up that breaks the outside of a tooth (known as a slab fracture).

Your veterinarian may recommend pick chews, which are small enough to hold in the mouth without swallowing by accident. However, these are not so large that your dog will need to have a fully open mouth to safely chew on them.

Preventing Dental Issues in Dogs

The most reliable way to help prevent the development of dental problems with your dog’s teeth is routine brushing and cleaning of your cat’s mouth. You’ll give your dog a much better chance of having healthier teeth and gums if plaque is brushed away before it can cause damage or infection.

To keep your pup’s teeth in great condition and their breath fresh, schedule your pet for a professional dental examination and cleaning once a year. Pet dental appointments at Washington Dog and Cat Hospital are similar to taking your animal for an appointment at the veterinary dog or cat dentist. We can also treat any emerging dental health issues your dog may be experiencing.

While there is technically no such thing as a “veterinary dentist”, our veterinarians do provide dental care for pets in and near Los Angeles.

To prevent oral health issues from developing in the first place, you should start cleaning your dog’s teeth and gums when they are still a puppy and will be able to quickly adapt to the process. You may also consider adding dog dental chews to their routine.

May 22, 2024 0 comment

Cat

Cat Dental Health – What Every Owner Should Know About Cats’ Dental Hygiene

by admin May 22, 2024

written by admin

Why Cat Dental Care is Important

Cats are able to hide pain exceptionally well. They may suffer from painful oral health issues without ever letting you know that they feel uncomfortable. This is why owners need to be extra conscious of their companion’s oral health and well-being and be diligent about keeping their cat’s teeth clean.

How to Spot Dental Health Issues in Cats

While specific symptoms will vary depending on which dental health condition your cat is experiencing, there is a good chance your cat is suffering from dental disease if you notice any of the following symptoms or behaviors:

Difficulty with or slow eating
Loose or missing teeth
Bad breath (halitosis)
Visible tartar

Bleeding, swollen, or noticeably red gums
Pawing at the teeth or mouth
Weight loss
Excessive drooling

By keeping an eye on your cat’s teeth and oral health, you might be able to detect health issues early and get your cat treated before developing problems progress to more serious (and expensive) concerns.

If you notice any common signs of dental disease in your cat, book a dental examination and cleaning with your vet as soon as possible. The sooner your cat’s dental disease is diagnosed and treated, the better outcomes for your cat’s long-term health.

Yearly Dental Checkups for Your Feline Family Member

To help ensure your four-legged friend’s mouth stays as healthy and pain-free as possible, our veterinarians at Washington Dog and Cat Hospital recommend that you schedule annual dental cleanings as part of your pet’s routine veterinary care. Your veterinarian can assess your pet’s oral health along with their general physical health and will be able to let you know if any professional cleanings are required to restore your cat’s good health.

How to Clean Your Cat’s Teeth

Implementing a daily at-home oral hygiene routine is the best way to make sure that your cat’s teeth and gums stay as healthy as possible for as long as possible. To make the teeth-cleaning process as easy as possible, get your feline companion into the habit of having their mouth touched and teeth brushed while they are still quite young. This way, your cat will be used to the sensation and more tolerant of brushing as they grow older.

Your priority should be to make the process of brushing your cat’s teeth as smooth as possible by incorporating it into your cat’s daily routine. Begin by waiting until your cat is feeling calm and relaxed, then take these steps:

Gently lift your cat’s lips and use your finger to massage their teeth and gums for a few seconds.
Don’t expect very much from your cat at first. You may only be able to reach a couple of teeth the first few times you attempt this process – that’s okay. Your goal is to build trust in your cat to help prevent them from becoming agitated.
Stay calm and give your kitty lots of praise and a yummy treat after your teeth-and-gum massage. This will help build your cat’s tolerance to the experience, gradually increasing the length of time you spend on this task each day.
Once your cat has become used to you massaging their gums on a daily basis, you’ll be able to gradually introduce a soft-bristled toothbrush and some special toothpaste designed for cats. These are available at pet stores or potentially your vet’s office. Toothpaste can come in a variety of tasty flavors for cats, including chicken or beef.
Start by using the toothbrush as gradually as you did the teeth-and-gum massage; your cat may even become curious and lick a small dab of toothpaste from your finger.

The length of time and thoroughness of your cat’s brushing will depend on their temperament for the most part. Make sure you remain flexible and adapt your approach to accommodate your cat’s tolerance. Some cat owners have a very easy time cleaning their feline friend’s teeth with gauze, while others find that a finger brush works well. Others may even apply a dental gel with their fingers that can do some of the work for them.

When you finally begin brushing your cat’s teeth successfully, move along the gum line, working quickly but stopping before your cat becomes irritated. It could be weeks before your kitty tolerates having all of its teeth cleaned during a single session.

If your cat is alarmed or stressed out by the process of having their teeth cleaned, it may react by scratching or biting. So, if brushing your cat’s teeth becomes too difficult for you and your feline companion, consider adding plaque remover to their drinking water, getting them specially designed chew toys, or providing them with dental treats.

As well as your efforts to keep your kitty’s teeth clean and healthy, they’ll also need a regular professional dental cleaning performed by a qualified vet to keep their teeth in optimal condition.

May 22, 2024 0 comment

Dog

How to Stop & Prevent Periodontal Disease in Dogs

by admin May 22, 2024

written by admin

Periodontal Disease in Dogs

Periodontitis is also referred to as gum disease or periodontal disease, is a kind of bacteria that can infect your dog’s mouth and cause a range of oral health problems. Dogs with early-stage periodontal disease don’t typically show any symptoms.

When the periodontal disease advances to later stages, most dogs begin to experience painful and problematic symptoms, including tooth loss, gum erosion, chronic pain, or even bone loss as the teeth’s supporting structures weaken or are lost.

Signs of Periodontal Disease in Dogs

Most dogs display minor or even no signs of periodontal disease when this condition is in its early stages. However, if your dog is suffering from advanced stage periodontal disease, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:

Discolored teeth (yellow or brown)
Bad breath (halitosis)
Excessive drooling
Irritability
Reduced appetite
Problems keeping food in the mouth

Blood on chew toys or in the water bowl
Loose or missing teeth
Bloody or “ropey” saliva
Weight loss
Inflamed or bleeding gums
Favoring one side of the mouth when chewing

Periodontal disease is a serious health concern for all dogs. Once the disease reaches the advanced stages your canine companion could be experiencing significant chronic pain, but that’s not all.

The bacteria associated with periodontal disease can also travel throughout your pet’s body, potentially causing problems with major organs and leading to serious medical issues such as heart disease.

Treatment for Dogs With Periodontal Disease

If your pup is suffering from periodontal disease symptoms your vet might suggest a professional cleaning or other treatments depending on the severity of your dog’s oral health condition.

The cost of your dog’s dental care will vary depending on the treatment needed and the individual vet.

For your vet to conduct a comprehensive examination of your dog’s teeth and gums, as well as any treatments necessary, they will need to use anesthesia. (Pre-anesthesia blood work is also an important step to determine whether your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia medications).

Dental procedures for dogs typically include:

Pre-anesthesia blood work
Dental radiographs (X-rays)
Endotracheal intubation, inhaled anesthetic, and oxygen
Anesthesia monitoring
IV catheter and IV fluids

Circulating warm air to ensure the patient remains warm while under anesthesia
Scaling, polishing, and lavage of gingival areas
Pain medication during and post-procedure
Extractions as required

Preventing Periodontal Disease In Dogs

Many pet parents want to know how they can prevent periodontal disease in dogs. Prevention is relatively easy, simply by caring for your dog’s oral health, similar to how you would care for your own, you may be able to prevent your dog from developing periodontal disease.

Right from when your pup is young, be sure to pay close attention to your dog’s oral health. Like people, dogs need regular dental appointments to keep their oral hygiene in check and to identify any trouble spots before more serious issues develop.

Your dog should see the vet at least once a year for an oral health examination and cleaning. Regular dental appointments for your dog provide you with an opportunity to speak to your vet about any concerns you may have about your pup’s teeth or overall health.

To prevent problems from taking hold between appointments brush your dog’s teeth daily to remove plaque and prevent bacteria from forming. You may also want to offer your dog specially formulated dental chews and dog food, as well as specially designed toys to help address dental disease and reduce the buildup of tartar.

If your canine friend displays symptoms of periodontal disease such as swollen or inflamed gums, appetite changes, or missing teeth, book an appointment with your vet as soon as possible.

May 22, 2024 0 comment

Cat

Cat Teeth Cleaning: How to Clean Your Cat’s Teeth

by admin May 22, 2024

written by admin

Advice for Keeping Your Cat’s Teeth Clean

Cats tend to mask symptoms of pain and discomfort. That’s why it’s so important for kitty owners to be aware of their cat’s oral health and implement a daily brushing routine to keep their teeth clean.

Take Your Cat for Annual Dental Checkups

Cats should have a dental checkup and teeth cleaning as part of their annual wellness exam. During the appointment, your vet will assess your cat’s oral health along with their overall physical health and recommend professional veterinary dental cleaning or surgery, if required.

Implement a Daily Dental Care Routine

It’s a cat owner’s responsibility to keep their four-legged friend’s teeth as clean and healthy as possible. To that end, our vets recommend implementing a daily oral health and dental care routine to prevent plaque and tartar from building up between cleanings, and getting your kitty used to having their teeth brushed.

As you might imagine, easing your cat into this routine may take a bit of trial and error, so you’ll want to wait until she’s calm and relaxed before trying these steps:

Gently lift the lips and use your finger to massage your cat’s teeth and gums for a few seconds.
Keep your expectations simple when you start – you may only reach one or two teeth the first few times you try this. Stop before she becomes too annoyed.
Shower your kitty with lots of praise and a yummy treat after your teeth-and-gum massage. Your goal here is to build your cat’s tolerance to the experience, gradually increasing the length of time you spend on this task.
Once your cat has become used to having their teeth and gums regularly, you can gradually introduce a toothbrush and toothpaste designed specifically for cats (never use your own toothpaste, as it contains ingredients that are toxic to our feline companions). Look for flavors that appeal to them, such as chicken or beef.
Start with the brushing as gradually as you did the teeth-and-gum massage; your cat may begin with licking just a small dab of toothpaste from your finger (you may even have the opportunity to test a few different flavors). Find a brush that has soft bristles made for cats’ delicate gums.

While some cat owners find success with a small piece of soft gauze, others find a finger brush works for their felines. Still others apply dental gel with the toothbrush or a finger, and have the gel do the work for them.

Whether you use teeth brushing, special treats or food, chew toys or drinking water additives, there are several products out there that can help with keeping your cat’s teeth clean. Of course, they’ll also need a regular professional dental cleaning performed by a qualified veterinarian to keep their teeth in tip-top condition.

May 22, 2024 0 comment

Dog

Dogs Eating Grass: Why Do They Do It and Is It Safe?

by admin May 22, 2024

written by admin

Why do dogs eat grass?

Whether you find your dog consumes grass once in a while or every time you leave the house, a grass-eating habit is something that many dog owners are familiar with. But why do dogs eat grass? There are, in fact, some dogs who will eat grass, vomit it up, then get right back to eating grass.

Should you be worried that your dog might have gastrointestinal issues? Perhaps you’re wondering if they’ve consumed a poisonous substance, or if this is a sign that they have an underlying health condition that requires diagnosis.

While a dog may vomit after they eat grass, this is relatively uncommon. Most dogs eat grass without showing any signs or symptoms of tummy issues. So, it seems unlikely that dogs eat grass to induce vomiting. Then why do they do it?

Physical Reasons My Dog Eats Grass

Type ‘why my dog eats grass’ into your favorite search engine and you’ll likely find that you are among many pet parents who deal with this issue. Reasons for this habit may vary. A nutritional deficiency may be one of the simplest explanations for why a dog eats grass. A dog that eats grass might be attempting to add more fiber to their diet to help them digest their food.

After all, since dogs are omnivores, they need to dine on high-quality plants and meat to maintain their health. Eating grass may be an easy way for your dog to add roughage to their diet, helping to keep things moving through their digestive tract.

There is also a chance that a gastrointestinal issue is causing your pup to eat grass. Dogs can suffer from a variety of stomach and gastrointestinal issues, including conditions like gastroenteritis and pancreatitis. If your dog is eating grass and displays other symptoms such as constipation, decreased energy, lack of appetite, or diarrhea, it’s a good time to take your canine companion to the vet for an examination.

Psychological Reasons My Dog Eats Grass

Just as people can have feelings of anxiety or boredom, so can dogs. If your dog doesn’t exhibit any signs of digestive issues but devours grass, psychological reasons may be the culprit.

For example, your dog may simply be suffering from boredom. If this is the case, increasing the intensity or distance of their walks may help to cut back on their grass eating habit.

Separation anxiety could also be the reason that your dog is eating grass. Try leaving an old blanket or t-shirt with your scent on it with your dog when you leave the house. Your dog may find the familiar scent reassuring, which can help reduce their grass eating.

Some dogs show obsessive behaviors. If your dog is obsessively eating grass, your vet will be able to advise you on how to help your pooch reduce obsessive behaviors.

Pros and Cons of Dogs Eating Grass

Pros

Grass Eating May Be Enjoyable
Adds Fiber to Your Dog’s Diet
Aids in Digestion

Cons

May Lead to Vomiting / Diarrhea
Grass May be Covered in Pesticides
Parasites Live in Grass

Is it safe for dogs to eat grass?

If your dog has no health concerns and is up to date on preventive care then feel free to let them gnaw away on clean patches of grass.

To help keep your grass-nibbling pooch healthy, make sure that there are no herbicides, pesticides, or fertilizers on the grass your dog enjoys.

May 22, 2024 0 comment

Pet Care

What to do when pet cant stand

by admin May 22, 2024

written by admin

Why is my cat or dog staggering?

If your cat or dog can’t stand up or keeps falling over, they may be suffering from any number of severe health issues, some of which we’ll explore in this post. This means your pet will need immediate emergency care and you should take them to a veterinary hospital as soon as possible.

Ataxia

Ataxia is a condition associated with sensory dysfunction in the nervous system, and can lead to loss of coordination in the head, limbs, or back end. Cats and dogs can experience three different types of ataxia: cerebellar, vestibular, and sensory. A wide range of diseases can cause this condition.

Cerebellar ataxia is caused by damage to the cerrebellum, while sensory ataxia is a result of the spinal cord being compressed due to a bulging intervertebral disc or tumor. An issue with the inner ear or brain stem causes vestibular ataxia.

Along with the stumbling, staggering, and falling over we see with other health conditions, common symptoms of ataxia in cats and dogs include abnormal walking (taking large steps), weakness, swaying, and tremors in the head and body. You might also notice changes in heavior, lethargy, head tiling, lack of appetite, and difficulty hearing.

Cats with sudden onset ataxia often fall or roll to one side and experience significant nausea due to feeling unsteady. In contrast, cats with chronic ataxia will typically adjust over time and are less likely to suffer from nausea.

Ear Infection

Both dogs and cats can lose their balance due to middle or inner ear infections. If your pet has an ear infection, you may also notice flicking eyes, head shaking, walking in circles, and scratching near the ear, in addition to swelling, redness, odor, and discharge in or around the infected ear.

Injury

Head trauma, damage to the inner ear, and other injuries can cause pets to lose their balance. You may find it difficult to tell if your pet is injured since both cats and dogs are capable of masking pain well. Slowed reflexes, licking or biting a wounded area, heavy panting, reluctance to lie down or put pressure on a specific area, or change in appetite can all point to pain.

Brain Inflammation

Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) can cause an animal to fall over or stagger. This condition can be caused by tick-borne diseases, fungal infections, and parasites. Head tilt to either side, seizures, fever, decreased consciousness, depression, and facial paralysis are other common symptoms of encephalitis.

Brain Tumor

Older pets may be especially vulnerable to brain tumors, which can lead to staggering, stumbling or general loss of balance. Other symptoms of a brain tumor will vary depending on the tumor’s location and include changes in appetite or behavior, signs of pain, seizures, swaying, a wide stance, head tilting or tremors, pacing, flicking of the eye and lack of coordination.

Stroke

While strokes in dogs are fairly uncommon, they can occur. In cats, strokes are most commonly diagnosed in kitties that are around nine years old. They seem to occur less frequently in pets than in people and can be the result of high blood pressure, hemorrhage, blood clots, rupture of a blood vessel in the brain, heart disease, kidney disease, cancer, migrating worms, head trauma or other serious distorders.

If your dog is staggering like he is drunk, he may have had a stroke. Stroke symptoms in both dogs and cats can also include circling, unsteadiness while walking, unequal pupil sizes, abnormal eye movements, loss of vision or balance, falling down, head pressing (potentially as a result of a headache), altered mental state, muscle spasms or head tilt.

Common Remedies for Loss of Balance in Pets

If your cat or dog can’t walk or stand, and is staggering or falling over, take them to the vet as soon as possible. One of our veterinarians will be able to diagnose the issue and recommend a treatment option depending on the problem.

Treatment options vary widely depending on diagnosis, and can range from medications to surgery, combinations of different types of therapies, physical rehabilitation and more.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Any dog or cat that is staggering, stumbling or falling over requires immediate veterinary attention, since they may be suffering from pain and other symptoms, and their life may be in danger. Time may be a critical factor in their survival and prognosis.

If you are experiencing an emergency with your pet during regular hours, contact us for more information. Other local hospitals provide emergency care after hours. If your pet sees our Los Angeles vets, we can diagnose the issue and provide compassionate care and treatment. We may also recommend follow-up care or make referrals to experienced specialists.

May 22, 2024 0 comment

Pet Care

First Aid for Pets

by admin May 22, 2024

written by admin

Preparing Your Dog or Cat’s First Aid Kit

Prepare your pet’s first aid kit with these essential items from Washington Dog and Cat Hospital. Keep these items in your toolbox or another case so they are easily accessible. In the event of a pet emergency, you’ll want to keep these items on hand at all times until you can get your pet int to see a veterinarian:

Antibiotic ointment
Antiseptic lotion, spray, or powder
Alcohol swabs
Blanket, muzzle, carrier, or leash to secure your pet
Blunt-tipped scissors or razors for cutting hair and bandages
Cotton swabs or cotton balls
Copies of medical records
Copy of rabies vaccination
Grease-cutting dish soap
Hand sanitizer or wipes
Hydrocortisone cream 3%

Instant hot and cold packs
Lubricating jelly
Nonstick and waterproof adhesive tape to secure bandages
Penlight or flashlight
Rectal thermometer
Splints and tongue-depressors
Sterile gauze pads and bandages
Styptic liquid to stop minor bleeding
Tweezers
Turkey baster, rubber bulb syringe, or dosing

Applying Basic Animal First Aid

Below are some basic first aid tips for pets like dogs and cats that you may need to use before bringing your pet to an emergency vet clinic.

To be safe, muzzle your pet. Even the nicest pets can bite when they’re hurt, so it’s best to be careful. Ask your vet in advance how to use gauze to tie a muzzle if you don’t have a muzzle handy.
Press a clean, thick pad of gauze over any cuts or scrapes, and keep your hand on the wound until the blood starts to clot. Keep the pressure on for at least three minutes before checking to see if the blood is indeed clotting.
Keep the pet as quiet and warm as you can.
If you think the pet has broken bones, find a flat surface, like a board or stretcher, that you can move the pet on from place to place. Using a blanket or towel to tie the pet to the surface may also be a good idea.
Remember that any first aid you give your pet should be followed by veterinary care right away. First aid care is not the same as veterinary care, but it could save your pet’s life until it can see a vet.
If the situation is dire and every second counts, Washington Dog and Cat Hospital offers emergency care Monday through Saturday during regular clinic hours (8:00 am – 5:00 pm). Our caring team can help pets in most emergencies. Contact us to find out how to move an injured animal based on your specific situation.

What kind of situations require first aid?

Some common situations that require first aid for pets include choking, heatstroke, poisoning, and injuries such as cuts or burns. It is important to be prepared and knowledgeable in order to provide immediate care in these emergency situations.

How To Perform CPR On Cats & Dogs

It is scary thinking you might need to perform CPR on your pet, but it can happen. CPR for dogs and cats is virtually the same as CPR for people. These directions are designed to help if your dog or cat is unconscious and reduce the risk that you’ll get bit if they awaken.

Remove any obstacles. Open the animal’s mouth and make sure its air passage is clear. If not, remove the object blocking the airway.
Extend the head and give the dog or cat a few fake breaths.
- For large dogs, close the dog’s mouth tightly and breathe into the nose. The dog’s chest should raise. Give 2 breaths at a time
- You may be able to cover the nose and mouth of small dogs and cats with your mouth while breathing. The chest of the animal should rise. Take two deep breaths.
Do chest compressions
- Large dogs may be able to be positioned on their backs and their chest compressed in the same way that humans do.
- You may need to lay the animal on its side and compress the side of the rib cage for small dogs and cats, as well as large dogs with funnel chests. You can also turn the animal on its back and press on both sides of the rib cage.
- The rate of chest compressions varies depending on the cat or dog’s size.
  - Dogs over 60 pounds: 60 compressions per minute.
  - Animals between 11 and 60 pounds: 80 – 100 compressions per minute
  - Animals 10 pounds or less: 120 compressions per minute.
Alter your breaths with compressions. The compression-to-breath ratio should be similar to that of humans – 30:2. Repeat until the animal responds or begins to breathe on its own.

Whether or not your pet begins to breathe on its own, you should contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic and take them in. Any period of time without oxygen can cause damage. If your pet choked on a foreign object or food, you should still bring them in because their airway may have been injured in ways that are not visible.

May 22, 2024 0 comment

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