Articles
Sarcoptic Mange and its Itchy Symptoms
04/24/2009 - 09:22
Sarcoptic Mange Sarcoptic mange or scabies is caused by a microscopic insect, a mite, which infects dogs, cats and other mammals, including people. The insect burrows under the skin causing very intense itching. Pets are often so itchy they may chew, rub or lick at their skin until open wounds develop. Symptoms include: Intense and constant itching Self-mutilation from chewing and …Read more »
Scooter's Night Out Could've Been a Nightmare
04/24/2009 - 09:22
I have written articles about "High-Rise Syndrome" in cats, but I never thought I would actually experience it with my own cat. Warm weather had arrived and in our home, the first screech of the living room window beckons an awakening of sorts—and his name is Scooter. Scooter is a playful and curious fellow, as most self-assured Maine Coons are. Highly …Read more »
Caring for Your Pet After Surgery
04/24/2009 - 09:21
Watch your pet closely for the first few days of recovery. Offer a strong dose of love, reassurance and pampering - and always follow the doctor's instructions. Here are some things to watch for: Overeating. Pets excited about being home tend to eat or drink too much or too fast, which can cause vomiting. They may also be slightly nauseous …Read more »
Intestinal Viruses
04/24/2009 - 09:21
Among the viruses that can infect your Pet and cause inflammation of the stomach and intestines: Parvovirus The deadliest of the intestinal viruses, parvovirus sloughs away the intestinal lining, causing mild to severe, bloody diarrhea and dehydration--a frequent cause of death. It also affects the bone marrow and immune system. Coronavirus A common virus in areas with high dog populations, …Read more »
Why Diabetes Causes Excessive Thirst, Hunger in Cats
04/24/2009 - 09:21
Diabetes mellitus is a serious medical condition where your pet cannot control her blood sugar levels due to problems with insulin production or function. It has many symptoms, but the most common that concerns Pet Parents are excessive urination, excessive thirst and eating while losing weight. Glucose is the main energy source that body cells need to operate efficiently. Your cat’s digestive …Read more »
Cats and Stress
04/24/2009 - 09:21
Because of their sensitive nature, cats can sometimes get stressed out and display stress-related behaviors. Some of the most common causes of cat stress are: changes in the immediate environment, introduction of a new pet into the family, sudden loud noises, unfamiliar smells or the absence of certain family members. Some signs of stress include: hiding, unusual fearfulness or aggression, …Read more »
Declawing and Other Options
04/24/2009 - 09:21
Declawing is the removal of a cat's front claws so it can't scratch furniture or people. Declawing is very controversial. Some people believe it's inhumane to declaw a cat because the surgery causes needless pain and suffering. They compare declawing a claw to amputating a finger. If you buy a purebred cat from a breeder or adopt a cat from …Read more »
Did You Know ... Playing Teaches Your Cat Social Skills?
04/24/2009 - 09:21
Playful activities, including climbing, wrestling, rolling and biting contribute to a kitten's social development. Play fights in particular teach kittens limits early on. For example, as kittens experience bites and scratches from their frisky siblings, they learn to reduce the intensity of their own attacks. In fact, it's common to see kittens rushing toward littermates only to veer away or …Read more »
Why It's OK to Let Your Cat Eat Grass
04/24/2009 - 09:21
Many cat owners are discovering that providing their cat with live greenery to nibble on is a safe and healthy way to bring a taste of the outdoors to their indoor cat. Cat owners may be surprised when they see their carnivorous feline indulging in greenery. PetSmart’s feline expert and veterinarian Dr. Robyn Jaynes, says that Pet Parents frequently ask why …Read more »
How to Keep Cats from Counter-Hopping
04/24/2009 - 09:21
Cats have a natural love for vertical exploration as well as amazing jumping abilities, as most Pet Parents have witnessed. But, for safety's sake, sometimes keeping your cat from jumping onto certain places may be in order, for example, a hot stove or a bucket on a kitchen counter filled with a cleaning solution. Here are some ways to keep cats …Read more »
