Older cats are susceptible to a variety of diseases including chronic renal failure, diabetes mellitus, hypertension and hyperthyroidism. Often the first sign of trouble is a change in the cat’s behavior. Cats with arthritis may stop jumping or using their litter box. As their hearing or vision diminish, some become fearful and avoid interaction. Others become …
Category Archives: Ask The Vet
Introducing Cats And Dogs
Many people like to have both cats and dogs in their house. Introducing cats and dogs requires great care and patience. Please take every precaution to insure the safety of the cat (and dog too). PHASE 1: Establish a safe dog-free zone for the cat that contains food, water and a litter box. The cat must …
Dementia In Older Dogs
As dogs age, some develop behavior problems. I hear lots of stories about dogs who whine and pace at night. Owner’s also complain about their dog ‘losing’ their house breaking. These may be signs of a geriatric disease called Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS). I think of it as senility in dogs. Common signs of CDS are: 1) Anxiety- including …
Introducing Cats
Desensitization and counter-conditioning are the keys to introducing cats. The first phase involves desensitizing the individual cats to each other. Once that is accomplished, the cats are then counter-conditioned to view each other in a positive manner. The entire process of introduction may take weeks to months. As with all things related to animals, patience is required. Cats move …
Easter Lilies And Cats Do Not Mix
Several years ago I treated a beautiful kitten for renal disease. The rambunctious girl jumped up on the counter to investigate the Eater Lily that adorned her home. Some of the pollen stuck to her nose as she sniffed the flowers. She licked it off and then left to play with more interesting toys. Two days …
What Is Causing My Dog’s Face To Swell?
Many different factors may cause a dog’s face to swell. Here is a list of the most common causes I see in veterinary practice. 1) Allergic Reactions: Dogs react to allergens in their environment just like people do. The swelling may develop immediately following exposure or several hours later. Other signs of an allergic reaction include lethargy, vomiting, …
Tips For Trapping A Feral Cat
Advance planning and patience are the two keys to trapping a feral cat. Step 1: Set-up a plan of action for the cat before it is trapped. If the cat is an active-response feral, will you neuter and release it back into the same area or transfer it to a colony (if the cat’s territory is unsafe)? …
Prevention of Separation Anxiety
Here are some suggestions to prevent separation anxiety in your pet. 1) Establish a routine for feeding, exercising and training your pet. Include several quiet periods during the day when the pet will relax in their favorite spot. It is essential that this be done away from you. Once you establish the routine, stick with it! …
First Aid For Birds
There are three points to keep in mind when working with birds. First, birds are masters at hinding illness and injury until a problem becomes severe. Therefore, a sick bird should be taken to a veterinarian immediately. The advice given here should be initiated on the way to the hospital. It is not meant to replace professional …
Treatment of Separation Anxiety
The treatment of separation anxiety requires patience, consistency and understanding. Remember, the animal acts like this because it loves you too much! When you leave their presence, they worry you will never come back. It is important for us humans to understand that they are motivated by fear and not by spite. The following guidelines are general recommendations for treating …