Aging

How Do I Know When My Cat Is a “Senior”?

Most cats enter their golden years between 12 and 14 years of age. Many cats, especially those who are black, experience a graying of their coat as they age—but there are other, more subtle signs that your cat is aging.

Her hearing may not be as sharp as it once was, her fur may be thinner, and she may take a little longer to get up and out of bed in the mornings. It is also perfectly normal for an older cat to sleep more than she used to and to tire more quickly when playing. In healthy cats, these changes occur slowly, over time, at a gradual pace that you probably won’t even notice.

How Often Should My Older Cat See the Vet?

It is important that cats have an annual checkup or “wellness” visit with their vet. This is even more important as they age, so talk to your vet about whether such visits should become more frequent. ASPCA experts recommend that healthy senior cats see the vet at least every six months. During the exam, your vet will listen to your cat’s heart and lungs, take her temperature and examine her skin, fur, ears, eyes, mouth, teeth and internal organs. He or she may also order routine screening tests for early detection of problems.

Please note, certain signs of aging may also indicate the onset of disease or nutritional deficiency, so any changes in your cat’s behavior or appearance should be reported to your veterinarian.

What Health Issues Are Common in Older Cats?

There are many health issues more common to aging cats, including:

• Cancer
• Obesity
• Arthritis
• Diabetes
• Constipation
• Kidney and liver disease
• Hyperthyroidism
• Dental disease
• Vision problems
• Skin problems or matted coat (due to increased difficulty in grooming)
• Urinary problems

What Diet Changes Will Help My Older Cat?

Cats, especially older ones, tend to love routine. But for the sake of her health, your vet may recommend the following diet changes:

• Talk to your vet about beginning a senior diet when your cat hits the age of seven. Aging animals undergo metabolic and body composition changes. Some of these are unavoidable, but others can be managed with diet. Cat foods formulated for seniors should be lower in fat, but higher in protein (ask your vet for a recommendation).
• More frequent feedings are easier on a cat’s digestive system than one or two large meals a day.
• Older cats may have decreased absorption of nutrients from their intestinal tract, and often lose more of them through their kidneys and urinary tract. Some vets feel that aging cats benefit from the addition of dietary supplements, also known as “nutriceuticals. Speak with your vet about whether your cat needs additional supplements for specific health issues.

What Can I Do to Make My Senior Cat More Comfortable?

• Older cats are unable to regulate body temperature as effectively as young cats, and should be kept warm, dry and indoors. Likewise, senior cats are extra sensitive to heat and humidity. Please take precautions to protect them from conditions that could cause heatstroke.
• An older cat may appreciate if you help brush her fur in hard-to-reach areas—this aids in removing loose hairs and stimulating circulation and sebaceous gland secretions.
• Cats like to seek out warm places to rest. Make sure your older cat's favorite soft bed or resting place is not in a drafty area of your home. You may also choose to provide extra blankets or an orthopedic bed.
• If your cat is losing her sight or hearing, remove obstacles and reduce her anxiety by keeping floors free of clutter. Be sure her litter box is easily accessible and try to keep her routine consistent to avoid any unnecessary stress. Nightlights may also help older cats with poor vision or eyesight problems navigate at night.
• If your older cat can no longer jump on her favorite windowsill, create a sturdy ramp or purchase pet stairs that allow her to safely reach that spot on her own.

What Symptoms Should I Be Concerned About in My Older Cat?

If you notice any unusual symptoms, please don’t wait for your regularly scheduled checkup to see your vet. Call right away. Symptoms to watch out for and promptly report include:

• Urinary incontinence, straining or inability to pass urine
• Frequent urination
• Lumps, bumps or scabs on the skin
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing or open-mouth breathing
• Weakness or lethargy
• Drooling or bad breath
• Changes in weight, appetite, amount of urine produced or water intake
• Stiffness or limping
• Increased vocalization
• Change in vision or hearing
• Uncharacteristic aggression or other significant behavior change

Why Dental Care is Important

Proper dental care can detect dental disease that not only affects the mouth, but can also lead to more serious health problems such as heart, lung, and kidney disease. Good dental hygiene is just as important for pets as it is for humans. Yet, it is one of the most overlooked areas in pet health. Studies by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) reveal that nearly two-thirds of pet owners do not provide the dental care recommended by veterinarians. AAHA’s Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats are a working framework for small animal dentistry practice, including dental examinations, cleanings, and surgical procedures.

Be sure to set up an appointment with your veterinarian today!

Source:

http://www.healthypet.com/PetCare/PetCareArticle.aspx?title=AAHA_Dental_Care_Guidelines

Deadly dog virus on the rise in SWFL

LEE COUNTY, Fla. - A Four in Your Corner medical alert to protect your pets from a potentially deadly virus sweeping Southwest Florida.  

The Parvovirus is on the rise in Lee County.

Lee County Domestic Animal Services says there has been a spike in puppies and young adult dogs with the virus coming into the shelter and local emergency clinics. 

Once dogs get it, the affects can be deadly.

But, it turns out something so deadly can be avoided altogether with a low cost vaccine.  

"He likes to antagonize dogs into chasing him," said Dan Carney who takes his dog Jack to the Rotary Park Dog Park in Cape Coral daily. "He just loves to run."

Right now, the dog park could be a dangerous place in Lee County.

"One of the biggest places that we worry is dog parks because we don't know, are they, is everybody vaccinated?" said Dr. Tara Boozer, associate veterinarian at Kindness Animal Hospital.

Dr. Boozer is talking about the Parvovirus.

"How serious is it?" asked reporter Kelli Stegeman. 

"Very serious," replied Dr. Boozer.

The virus mainly attacks the intestines of puppies and young dogs. It's spread through fecal matter.

"About day 5 to day 7 is when they start not feeling well and not really wanting to eat or drink and then they start having diarrhea and vomiting," Dr. Boozer said.

Parvo thrives in places where there are a lot of dogs. Those places include shelters, the beach and dog parks.

"It's a very, very hearty virus," explained Dr. Boozer. "Bleach kills it and that's about the only thing that fully does."

"One of the good things with the park district is you have to provide proof of vaccinations before you can get a pass to come into the park," said Carney. "That's very reassuring." 

The best thing for Jack is to keep him regularly vaccinated against Parvo and hope other owners do the same.

"We keep an eye on everybody else's dog," Carney said. "If somebody's dog looks like they're getting out of sorts, it's the topic of conversation."

Dr. Boozer says she's seen cases in adult dogs who are not properly vaccinated against Parvo. When they get the virus, it is usually much more severe. 

She says make sure your dog is regularly vaccinated. If they aren't, avoid the places there are a lot of dogs.   

Author: By Kelli Stegeman

Source: http://www.fox4now.com/features/4inyourcorner/Deadly-dog-virus-on-the-rise-in-SWFL-242686041.html

Funny Cats Sleeping

Laser Therapy

Here are a couple of our adorable patients, receiving Laser Therapy. The versatility of the laser allows our doctors to treat sore muscles and joints, degenerative conditions, pain, non-healing wounds as well as anti-inflammatory conditions. The laser is delivering results painlessly, without side effects, or risks.

Pumpkin Swink

Casey Pieffer

Laser Therapy at Kindness Animal Hospitals

Stars of the Week: 2nd Week of September

Pet Diabetes

What is diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus, the medical name for diabetes, is a disease caused by a lack of insulin, or the inability of the body to utilize the insulin properly, that affects the level of glucose, or sugar, in your dog or cat’s blood. The glucose comes from the food that your pet eats. The food is broken down into very small components by the pet’s digestive system so their bodies can use it for energy. Glucose is one of these components, and an important source of energy.
Glucose is absorbed from the intestines into the bloodstream where it travels to cells throughout the body. Insulin is required for the cells to absorb glucose. Insulin is produced by the pancreas in response to the amount of glucose in the bloodstream. Healthy pets produce insulin easily, but pets with diabetes don’t. In canine and feline diabetes, unused glucose builds up in the bloodstream.

Is diabetes in my pet the same as diabetes in people?

The two conditions are very similar. In fact, your veterinarian will be using medication, equipment, and monitoring systems that are similar to those used for diabetic people.

How common is diabetes in dogs and cats?

Diabetes usually affects less than 1% of dogs and cats. But experts believe that it is on the rise.

Can diabetes lead to other health problems?

Yes. Dogs and cats with diabetes can develop other health problems, usually after living with diabetes for a year or more. For dogs, a common complication of diabetes is cataract formation. Persistently high blood glucose levels can make the lens of the eye opaque, causing blindness. For cats, weakness of the hind legs is a common complication. Persistently high blood glucose levels may damage nerves, causing weakness and muscle wasting. For both dogs and cats, controlling high blood glucose levels can lead to healthier outcomes. For this reason, early diagnosis of diabetes in your dog or cat is important.

Will diabetes affect my dog or cat’s life expectancy?

Today, with effective treatment and monitoring, a diabetic dog or cat should have the same life expectancy as a non-diabetic dog or cat of the same age. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment helps diabetic pets maintain a good quality of life.

Is my dog or cat at risk for diabetes?

While diabetes has been diagnosed in dogs and cats of all ages, genders, and breeds, certain pets are at greater risk for the disease.

Risk factors in dogs

• Age (middle-aged to older dogs are more affected)
• Unspayed females
• Genetics
• Obesity

Breed—these breeds have a higher risk for developing diabetes:

• Cocker Spaniels
• Dachshunds
• Doberman Pinschers
• German Shepherds
• Golden Retrievers
• Labrador Retrievers
• Pomeranians
• Terriers
• Toy Poodles

Risk factors in cats

• Age (older cats are more susceptible)
• Neutered males
• Genetics
• Other insulin-resistant disorders or diseases, such as chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) or hyperthyroidism (overproduction of thyroid hormones)
• Obesity
• Physical inactivity
• Indoor lifestyle

Are there warning signs I should be aware of?

Some common signs of diabetes in dogs and cats include:

• Excessive thirst
• Excessive urination—your pet produces more urine per day or has “accidents” in the house (dogs) or outside the litterbox (cats)
• Excessive hunger while losing weight
• Lethargy (less active/sleeps more)
• Cloudy eyes (dogs)
• Doesn’t groom (cats)
• Thinning, dry, and dull hair

How will my veterinarian test my pet for diabetes?

Your veterinarian may begin by performing a general health examination and asking questions about any signs your pet may be displaying. Then, a sample of your pet’s urine will be tested for the presence of glucose (a type of sugar) or ketones (acids produced by the body as it breaks down fat instead of glucose for energy). If glucose is present in your pet’s urine, your veterinarian will then test your pet’s blood to determine the blood glucose level. A diabetes diagnosis is considered definite when persistently high glucose levels are found in both the blood and urine.

How do I take care of a pet with diabetes?

Although there is no cure for diabetes, the disease can be successfully managed with the help of your veterinarian. Daily insulin injections are usually required to restore a pet’s insulin level and control blood glucose levels. Many owners are anxious about giving injections, but it’s easier than you think, and you can quickly learn how to handle the dosing routine with little stress for you or your pet. Diet plays a vital role in helping to keep your pet’s diabetes regulated.
Your veterinarian can recommend a diet that’s best suited to the needs of your pet. A high-quality, consistent source of protein is an essential part of any diabetic diet. High-protein, low-carbohydrate foods are currently recommended for diabetic cats because they provide the extra energy cats need to get through their active days, without the extra carbs that can turn into excess sugar. It is important to feed your pet based on its ideal body weight.
Consistent timing and size of meals is also very important. Exercise can help dogs with diabetes, but it needs to be regulated because activity affects blood glucose levels. It’s best to create a consistent exercise routine for your diabetic dog and stick to it. (There is no clear recommendation for exercise in diabetic cats because their activity is difficult to regulate.) Regular veterinary checkups can help identify changes in your pet’s condition and help you to manage this disease successfully over time.
Managing your dog or cat’s diabetes will require some effort, but the rewards are well worth it. Pets whose diabetes is under control have normal thirst, appetite, urination, and activity levels. Their weight is generally stable and they are less likely to develop complications.

Where can I learn more about diabetes in dogs and cats?

The following websites provide useful information:

• www.petdiabetesmonth.com
• www.pet-diabetes.com

Originally posted on Healthy Pet.

Dog House Repairs Month

Does your dog have a dog house? It's Dog House Repairs Month! Make sure their house is not made of pressure treated wood if they are a puppy or a chewer! Pressure treated wood is treated with arsenic and is poisonous to pets if consumed!

National Pet Preparedness Month

This month is National Pet Preparedness Month. In order to be sure your pet is prepared for a disaster, make sure your safety kit includes food, water, leash and collar, bowls, pet ID, medications, immunization records, pet carrier, first aid kit, and a contact list for all pet emergency contacts.

Memorial Day

Happy Memorial Day this Monday! Remember the men and women who dedicated their lives to our nation’s freedom.

It's National Pet First Aid Awareness Month

Candy/Chocolate Dangers

Candy and chocolate are delicious snacks for us, but dangerous for our pets to eat! Be sure to keep all sweet treats out of your pet’s reach this holiday season, to ensure they are happy, healthy, and safe.

Cats & Car Engines

Have you heard about the danger of car engines for outdoor cats? Our car engines often stay warm for hours after our cars have been shut off, making the perfect warm place for an outdoor cat to sleep. If a car is started while a cat is lying on the engine, the cat could be injured or killed! Always knock on the hood of your car before you start it…you could save a life!

Halloween Safety for Pets

Halloween can be exciting for us, with friends coming over in costume, kids knocking on the door for candy, and even our pets might be dressed up. Before the holiday begins, we encourage you to take some time to think about your pet’s safety and their feelings. Make sure they have a quiet place to relax, out of sight of the unusually-costumed people and out of hearing of the continual door knocks. Make sure if your pet is in costume that they’re wearing something comfortable that isn’t restrictive and can be easily removed if they become uncomfortable. If your pet acts strangely on Halloween, odds are that it’s because they’re anxious, and need a quiet place to unwind.

Today is National Pet Obesity Awareness Day

Today is National Pet Obesity Awareness Day: a day set aside to educate pet owners about the danger of obesity in pets, and a day for pet owners to look at their options when it comes to their pet’s health. We encourage all pet owners to contact us if they’re concerned about their overweight pets. If you have questions, we can help determine a diet and exercise plan that will improve your pet’s health and increase their life-expectancy. Just ask!

Fall Football Gatherings & Pets

Do you like to go to football games or tailgate parties in the fall? If you’re planning on bringing your pet, it’s important to make sure that they’re safe. Picnic foods –such as greasy burgers, sugary desserts, ribs, chicken with bones, and shish-kabob sticks—can be extremely dangerous for your pet if they’re consumed! Also charcoal grills can be easily knocked over by excited or skittish pets, causing injuries. Remember to keep your pet safe and secure while you’re engaging in activities that could be dangerous for them.

Tomorrow is International Homeless Animal Day

Tomorrow is International Homeless Animal Day. If you own a pet rescued from a shelter, give them an extra scratch behind the ears this Saturday to show them they’re loved. If you’re thinking about expanding your family, remember to check local shelters and consider offering a homeless animal a chance at a new life!

Over-the-Counter Medications & Pets

It’s important to keep your medicines out of your pet’s reach at all times, because human medication can be toxic to your pets! When your pet feels sick or is acting under the weather, never give them a human medicine, but bring them in for veterinary care instead. Even if you mean well, a dose of human medicine could be fatal to your pet.

Cleaning Pet Toys

Your dog's favorite toy doesn't have to be thrown away when it's dirty. Make sure that the toy is still safe to play with and then try cleaning it. Never use bleach or harsh cleaning chemicals. If the toy has a foul smell or does not get clean after washing, it IS time to throw away. Nylon and rubber toys can be cleaned by hand with soap and water and can even go in your dishwasher for cleaning, but run them through on the hot cycle with no detergent. Softer toys, like ropes, can become breeding grounds for bacteria, so consider sanitizing them by wetting the toy and microwaving it for a full minute. For stuffed animal toys, try throwing them in the washing machine when they are dirty. Throw away any toys with dangling parts, stuffed animal eyes, etc. and any toys that your pet is actually eating...unless it is a treat toy, your dog should not be eating it.