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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.

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
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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:

  1. Gently lift your cat’s lips and use your finger to massage their teeth and gums for a few seconds. 
  2. 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. 
  3. 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.
  4. 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. 
  5. 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
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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:

  1. Gently lift the lips and use your finger to massage your cat’s teeth and gums for a few seconds. 
  2. 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. 
  3. 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. 
  4. 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. 
  5. 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
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Strange Cat Behaviors Finally Explained

by admin May 22, 2024
written by admin

1. Face Rubbing

Cats are known for being very affectionate animals. They like to cuddle up close to you and purr while sleeping. If you pet a cat’s head, it’ll usually respond with a face rub. This is a friendly gesture where a cat gently licks the side of your hand with his tongue. It means saying, “I’m happy I found you.

If you want to know how much a cat loves you, hold one of your fingers toward her nose. She’ll stick her paw over it and start licking away. If she keeps doing it, she’s telling you she likes you.

2. Head Butting Or Bunting

Cats sometimes head butt or bunt their owners and other cats for various reasons. Most times, it’s just a sign of affection. The cat is trying to show their owner that they love them by rubbing its face against them and transferring some of its scents. However, this behavior can also be a way to get attention from you as your cat craves a connection with you.

Another reason cats might head butt is that they are marking their territory by rubbing some of their scents onto the person or object they are butting against. Your cat is telling everyone else, “This belongs to me!” And lastly, cats are natural hunters and may even use headbutts to stimulate their prey before pouncing on it!

3. The Sudden Nip/Bite

The sudden nip or bite can be alarming, especially if your cat is friendly. But it’s something that cats sometimes do. It usually happens when they become over-excited or feel threatened.

Cats use bites as a way to communicate with us. For example, some cats give warning bites because they want us to stop petting them before they become too overwhelmed or overstimulated. If the warning bite doesn’t work, the cat might give a stronger bite to indicate their displeasure or discomfort.

If you notice your cat giving biting behavior, it’s essential to try and understand why they’re feeling stressed and react appropriately. Give them space to calm down, and don’t punish them, as this can worsen their agitation. Offer treats or toys for positive reinforcement of more desirable behaviors instead!

4. Tail Twitching

Cat tail twitching is a genuine mystery that can leave many owners puzzled. It’s best to think of the tail twitch as a mini-sub communication, similar to body language.

When cats with slow-twitch, their tails may indicate various emotions, including pleasure or playfulness. Twitching the tail implies that your cat is actively engaging in something, like scanning her environment or trying to concentrate on something.

Twitching also suggests excitement or alertness among cats and could be an attempt at communication with other cats. This type of behavior typically indicates friendly feelings. If your cat twitches more than usual, it may imply she’s scared or threatened by something in her environment and needs help from you for protection.

5. Kneading

One of the oddest behaviors cats exhibit is kneading. Cats usually press their paws, alternating between left and right, against a soft object (like a pillow or your lap). Sometimes it’s even accompanied by purring.

So why do cats do this? It’s even weirder when you consider that felines are born without the skill to knead but somehow gain it over time. The answer can be found in kittenhood: Kneading is triggered when cats recall nursing from their mother as newborns. During suckling, mama cats kneaded their bellies to stimulate milk production – and their kittens picked up on the behavior.

Nowadays, kneading still occurs, with some adult cats showing contentment. It may indicate:

  • they recognize something as an accepted part of their environment
  • whether that be you or a particular spot they sleep in
  • and thus feel safe enough to express themselves through kneading.

6. Purring

Purring is a behavior with some mysterious qualities, but one thing we do know for sure is that cats purr when they are content or happy.

Cats have been documented purring when receiving attention from their owners and even when undergoing veterinary examination. In addition, cats have been known to purr before the onset of labor and delivery of their kittens, as if in anticipation!

It’s still a mystery how cats can produce this soft rumbling noise. Vibrations create the sound in the cat’s larynx, and the frequency coincides with the rate our heart pumps blood through our bodies. So it’s almost like an internal massage!

So why do cats purr? Scientists believe that it could serve to comfort cats, both physically and emotionally. Purring has also been shown to boost bone growth and healing thanks to its vibratory properties, which could explain why cats often emit a vibration before giving birth or after an injury.

However, some cats purr when scared, stressed, or in pain. If you are looking for a way to calm down your feline friend, try giving him a treat like a piece of cheese or a small toy. This will make him feel better. Cats love treats and toys. They are curious creatures and want to know what is happening around them.

7. Opening Its Mouth and Staring

Have you ever seen a cat quietly staring at something with its mouth wide open? It may seem strange, but cats do this for several reasons.

  1. They indulge in an instinctual behavior known as the Flehmen response. An exaggerated inhalation through the open mouth enables them to analyze smells better; cats use it to detect if food or danger lies ahead.
  2. Some cats stare at objects or animals because they are experiencing intense curiosity or excitement; however, it can also be interpreted as apprehension or caution.
  3. When cats stare like this for long periods and suddenly dart away quickly, it’s usually because they track a bug or some other small animal movement. However, when they focus on something intensely and exhaust the prey drive associated with hunting, the cat will often take off in pursuit when its prey makes a sudden move.
  4. Sometimes cats stare into ambivalent nothingness; experts believe that this means your kitty is simply relaxed or contented (in a trance-like state). In any case, backed by science and instincts – don’t be too flustered next time your kitty stares intently past you!

8. Sitting In Boxes

Cats like to hide in boxes because it gives them some privacy. They are less likely to make noise, and they feel safe. They also enjoy being able to see everything around them.

A cat will try to find the best hiding spot within a box. This might include sitting on the lid, under the bedding, or even sleeping in the middle of the pack.

If you put a box out in your yard, cats will use it as a shelter. However, they won’t spend much time there unless they want to go outside. If you keep the box clean, they will use it regularly.

9. Sleeping in a Cat Loaf Position

Cats don’t sleep, but they do rest. And while they might look like they’re sleeping, a lot is happening inside their heads. So we’ve got some science about what happens when cats enter this “loaf” position.

The cat’s body temperature drops to around 98 degrees Fahrenheit and it becomes very relaxed. As a result, their heart rate slows down considerably, and their breathing stops altogether. Many cats will stop breathing entirely during this state.

But when cats enter the loaf position, they aren’t just resting; they’re thinking.

If you watch a cat closely, you’ll notice that sometimes they start moving its head up and down, slowly lifting off the floor. Then they roll over onto one side, and finally, they flip themselves upside down.

This weird cat behavior is known as “pacing.” Cats pace because they’re trying to regulate their body temperature. They’ll move around if they’re too hot; if they’re too cold, they’ll lie still.

So how does a cat know whether he’s too warm or too cool? He uses his whiskers.

When a cat moves his face close to something, he feels the airflow across his skin. His whiskers pick up tiny changes in air pressure, and those little fluctuations tell him exactly where the air is coming from.

10. Bury Their Food

Cats will also bury their food to mark their territory – scent marking is essential in establishing boundaries for cats in the wild and their homes. The smell warns that this area is already occupied, protecting the cat’s food stores from intrusive competitors. Along with burying their food, cats may practice scratching the area to exhume more of their scent from glands between their toes and around its head. This helps solidify the message that this is the cat’s turf, and whatever was buried there belongs solely to them.

Cats may also instinctively bury their food due to innate instinctual behaviors passed down from mother kittens taught by mama cats who wanted to keep track of all her kits’ meals and ensure each one had taken care of themselves properly. In turn, these kittens adopted many similar behaviors that got passed down genetically over generations. This can explain why so many pet cats still participate in these activities today!

11. Howling At Night

Cats are nocturnal creatures. This means they are most active during the night. So what does it mean when you hear your kitty howl at midnight? Is he trying to tell you something? Or is he just being silly? Some things can cause your cat to start making noises, like a dog at night. So here are the main reasons your cat might be howling at the moon.

  • He’s hungry. If your cat starts howling at midnight, chances are he’s hungry. So make you feed him every three hours throughout the evening and give him his favorite food. You can find out precisely what food he likes by following our guide to providing your feline friend.
  • He wants attention. If your cat keeps howling at midnight, he probably wants someone to pay attention to him. Try giving him extra cuddles and kisses in the middle of the night.
  • He’s lonely. Your cat may start howling at midnight because he misses his human family members. Give him lots of attention and try to spend quality time with him whenever possible.
  • He’s scared. Sometimes, cats don’t want to go outside. Instead, they choose to hide inside the house. They often make noise to alert us to their presence when they do this.
  • He’s stressed. Your cat could be feeling anxious about something. Maybe he’s afraid of thunderstorms or fireworks. Whatever the reason, he needs to feel safe and secure.
  • He’s excited. Some cats are naturally very energetic and playful. They love playing games such as chasing toys or wrestling. These types of activities usually keep them busy and entertained at night.
May 22, 2024 0 comment
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What is cat flu?

by admin May 22, 2024
written by admin

Cat Flu can be detrimental in kittens and older cats, especially with underlying issues. Although it is not uncommon, more senior, healthier cats are less susceptible to catching the flu. Therefore, it is essential to see a vet if your cat seems poorly.

What Causes Cat Flu

What Causes Cat Flu?

A recent study estimated that about 80% of cat flu cases were caused by the FHV-feline herpes virus or FCV -feline Calci virus.

These viruses cause the respiratory lining, therefore worsening cat flu symptoms.

Other causes of cat flu are Bordetella, feline chlamydiosis, and mycoplasma.

Understanding these viruses and their symptoms can help treat and assist your cat during a cat flu bout.

FHV (Feline Herpesvirus)

This virus is usually spread by the saliva or the secretions from the eyes and nose of an infected cat.

FHV is commonly seen in kittens, and the symptoms are usually conjunctivitis, ulcers of the eyes, sneezing, fever, and a runny nose.

FCV (Feline Calicivirus)

This virus is spread by contact, i.e., snuggling, rubbing, sharing food bowls, toys, and from people’s clothing after contact with an infected cat.

Symptoms of the virus include drooling, mouth ulcers, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.

FCV goes into remission and may reoccur when your cat is stressed or ill.

Chlamydophila

This is a mild form of cat flu, and often, the most common symptoms are discharge and redness of the eyes.

Bordetella

Bordetella is the leading cause of infectious tracheobronchitis, most commonly known as kennel cough, which affects both dogs and cats. Cats infected with Bordetella often show flu-like symptoms; they may develop a cough too. Bordetella is also a significant cause of high death rates amongst kittens as it causes severe infection.

Can Humans get Cat Flu?

The viruses that cause cat flu in cats (FHV and FCV) are not Influenza viruses and cannot be transmitted to humans.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of cat flu can take up to two weeks to show. Here’s what you look out for:

  • Sneezing
  • Watery eyes and runny nose
  • Croaky voice or loss of voice
  • Drooling
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Lethargy
  • Labored breathing
  • Coughing
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Loss of appetite

How do you treat Cat Flu?

Your vet will aim to tackle the clinical signs of cat flu as there is no direct cure for cat flu.

He will prescribe supportive treatment medication such as anti-viral medication, antibiotics (for any accompanying bacterial infection such as Bordetella and Chlamydophila Felis 

) anti-inflammatories and eye drops.

Some kittens and older cats may need to be hospitalized, especially when they stop eating or drinking. The clinic will administer nutritional support or put your cat on a drip during their stay.

Note: When treating cat flu, it is essential to complete the prescribed courses of medication to the end; for example, if your vet suggests eyedrops, you must continue using it even if your cat’s eyes seem cured.

How can I help my cat at home?

If your vet says that you can take your infected cat home, here are a few things you can do to help with their recovery:

Gentle face cleaning

Using warm water and a face cloth, gently wipe your cat’s face making sure to clean the eye area of any secretions or crusting.

Offer strong-smelling foods

Your cat may not have an appetite; therefore, you could hear some strong-smelling food, e.g., sardines, tuna, roast chicken, or pilchards. In addition to nutrition, make sure that your cat stays well hydrated

How to Treat Cat Flu

Humidity

Just as we humans have congestion during the flu, so do cats. If you have a humidifier, keep it near your cat to allow the nasal passages to open. Alternatively, take your cat into the shower with you.

Reduce Stress

Stress plays a significant role in your cat’s road to recovery. Make sure that your cat is in a stress–free environment. Learn more on doing this by keeping an eye out for signs of stress in your cat.

How long does Cat Flu last?

It takes 5 to 10 days for milder cases and up to 6 to 8 weeks for more severe cases for cats to recover, dependent on the type of bacterial infection or virus that your cat has picked up.

Cats that have contracted FHV – feline herpes virus carry the virus their entire lives, only showing signs and symptoms when stressed or if their immunity Is low.

Kittens and older cats with FCV -feline Calci virus show signs of recovery after a few weeks, although they can be carriers for months after the illness.

Preventing cat flu

Ensuring that your cat is fully vaccinated can go a long way in preventing cat flu. Since there are many strains of viruses as with humans, vaccinations cannot help with them all. Two doses of vaccines are initially administered, and thereafter, booster shots.

It is essential to note the side effects vaccinations might have on your kitten; some kittens have allergic reactions such as hives swelling of the eyes, neck, and lips. These reactions may cause difficulty breathing, vomiting, pale gums, and weakness in some severe cases.

Vaccinated cats can also get cat flu, i.e., they become carriers, show no symptoms, and can infect other cats. Your cat’s vaccinations should be kept up to date as with time, vaccinations fade; hence boosters are required.

Some pregnant cats are carriers who show no symptoms and pass on the virus to their kittens; that is why there are many “false vaccination “cases in kittens.

As a cat lover, it may be challenging to see your kitty suffer, and for most of us, we try to assist our ailing pets with home remedies to save money and time however, this could be a deadly decision for your pet. If your cat is Ill, be sure to get in touch with your vet immediately and make sure you take proper instructions on how to care for your cat at home in the appropriate manner.

May 22, 2024 0 comment
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How to adopt a dog in Kenya

by admin May 22, 2024
written by admin

While many people who consider adopting a pet think that they are changing an animal’s life for the better, having a pet can have just as much of a positive impact on them and their families. 

If you are debating on adopting a pet, here are 6 reasons why you should go for it: 

1. They are great for your well being 

 It should come as no surprise that having a pet can significantly affect your mental and physical health. 

Why Adopt a Pet

According to research, interaction with animals can significantly reduce the effects of mental health issues such as: 

PTSD (Post Traumatic stress disorder)

Some doctors who recommend animal therapy often believe that it works because animals can provide a more profound connection than human to human ones and provide a less stressful avenue to physical touch, especially in cases of abuse.  

Anxiety and Depression

When you stroke, play or talk to your pet, your brain releases oxytocin (also dubbed “the love hormone”), dopamine, and serotonin (chemicals that make you calm and happy)

Pets such as dogs enjoy a lot of play; walking or playing outdoor games like fetch with your dog can have tremendous benefits for your body. Studies have shown that people that played with their pets daily recorded the following: 

  • Healthier weight 
  • Lower blood pressure 
  • Improved heart health 

Introducing a pet into your child’s life during their developmental years is a great confidence booster and teaches them a lot about responsibility. 

A pet can play an integral part in your child’s learning; for example, a child who might not feel comfortable reading aloud to people may feel more confident reading to a pet as they feel less under pressure with their furry best friend. 

Young children can assist in feeding, grooming, or bathing your family pet, thus giving them a sense of achievement. Having a pet also teaches a child empathy toward animals and others.

The drug company Novartis Animal Health carried out an IGA antibody test (antibodies that fight infection in the immune system) on the saliva of 138 children, and the results reflected that children with pets were able to resist diseases and allergies far better than those without pets.

Adopting a Pet in Kenya

3. Security 

From time immemorial, animals and humans have worked hand in paw to support each other in several ways. Dogs, especially bigger ones like great Danes, Boerboels, German shepherds, and rottweilers, are usually amongst the most popularly selected to guard a home as they are pretty territorial. This is not to say that smaller dogs aren’t, in fact, smaller dogs display great courage and can be equally territorial when threatened.

Adopting a Pet in Kenya - Dogs for Security

4. Adopting a pet saves you money 

Pets adopted from shelters are probably already vaccinated, spayed, or neutered. These procedures can be pretty costly; therefore, you will save much more than buying a pet from a store. 

Another way adoption is cheaper is that most animals are already house trained and acclimatized to living with humans. Some animals end up in shelters perhaps because their families had to move and could not take them along, so they are still good pets and need love and care again. 

Choosing which pet to pick for you and /or your family is much broader in a shelter. Most Shelters are full, giving you a variety of species, breeds, sizes, and ages to choose from. 

Adopting a Pet from a Pet Shelter in Kenya

5. Pets can increase your social interaction 

Pet lovers are most likely to socialize with each other. 

A recent study noted that people with dogs have more social interactions when out with their animals than people who don’t own pets. 

6. You could save a life

Unfortunately, so many shelters euthanize animals to make room for more. Adopting from your local shelter means, not only can you save its life, but you make space for other animals to have a chance at adoption. 

Why you should adopt a pet in Kenya

Before Adopting a Pet; Are you ready? 

Now that you have 6 great reasons to adopt a pet, here are some questions you must ask yourself:

 Are you promising forever? 

Having a pet is a long-term commitment; treating it as you would any other family member should be the attitude when you invite a pet into your home—the average large dog lives for about 12 years, and smaller dogs even up to 15yrs. Cats have amazingly long-life spans, some up to 20 years! 

Do you have the time? 

As mentioned before, your new pet is your family member. Therefore, you need to provide the proper care for it. Besides spending time and playing with the animal, there are other factors you must consider, such as their hygiene, training, and health checks. These factors are crucial for your pet’s mental and physical well-being. 

Is your house pet friendly?

While smaller pets like birds, hamsters, Guinea pigs, and the like don’t require too much space, larger animals like dogs, cats, rabbits, etc., need a considerable amount of space to exercise. It is essential to consider the requirements your pet needs in and around your home for their comfort. 

Are there other pets? 

One other factor to consider when adopting a pet, is having other pets. It is essential to consider whether your resident pet will be comfortable with your new pet. Some dogs, for example, might feel displaced or threatened by his or her new sibling and not willing to share his or her favorite resting spot or toys. 

Training and Grooming 

Keeping your pet well-groomed and healthy is very important when you adopt; most animals need regular visits to the Veterinary Clinic and groomers. Depending on the size, species and nature of your animal these visits are as many as 2 to 3 times a month. It is your responsibility to ensure that your pet sees the vet when needed. You may not have found your soul pet yet, but the right one is definitely out there for you. Go on! Visit your local shelter or pet foster homes today!

May 22, 2024 0 comment
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