Pets have an uncanny ability to hide pain. This adaptive behavior originated in order that when living in their natural wild environment any weakness would not be apparent to possible predators. Frequently, in older pets, we as pet owners assume that any slowing down in behavior or activity is a function of aging. While it… Continue reading
In our last post we considered how easily overfeeding occurs in many pet households. A few simple family behavioral changes can rectify this. But how do we account for the pet food manufacturer’s guidelines? Where can you find the actual nutritional calorie count on the diets and treats you are feeding? Shouldn’t following the manufacturer’s… Continue reading
In the US we are a culture that tends to like big things; big houses, big cars, big amounts of stuff and unfortunately, for our four legged friends, it seems we like big pets. My personal pet relationships include two Irish Setters and an ample cat, none small by any standard, but there is a… Continue reading
Although in the pet health insurance business only since since 2007, Purina appears to have made inroads into the industry. A quick online check (not having had any clients at this time with their coverage) I was encouraged to see mostly positive reviews. Comparing closely with Trupanion, Purinacare offers an 80% unscheduled coverage with optional… Continue reading
All too often cat families think that their pets do not need to see the veterinarian regularly if they don’t go out. Though your cat may not be exposed to as many contagious diseases as a feline who regularly spends time outdoors, there are a variety of other common diseases that can be very threatening… Continue reading
There is an unusual aspect to fall in New England. For some unknown reason there is an increase in Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease at the onset of the cooler fall weather. FLUTD as this condition is most often named is associated with many different diseases. Interstitial Cystitis or severe inflammation and pain in the… Continue reading
In the past 5 to 10 years the growth of veterinary dental practices has been rapid. Tooth brushing for dogs and cats has long been emphasized as part of routine care as has the need for dental prophylaxis or professional cleaning. But often we receive calls from pet owners who have recently visited their veterinarians … Continue reading
As the cheerful greeting of “Happy Holidays” rings out this holiday season, remember that the same happiness may not be experienced by your pet. As families reunite and households become busy with all the plans, the family dog or cat is often left out of the focus. In some ways this is positive since cats in… Continue reading
As the holidays are rapidly approaching it is important to note that one of the most serious conditions that affect cats (as well as other pets) is a linear foreign body. This refers to the ingestion of such materials as ribbons, strings, tinsel, or thread which in some instances may actually have a sewing needles attached. The condition’s severity stems from the possibiilty… Continue reading
One of the first questions that a client often asks after their feline pet tests positive for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus is if their cat has AIDs. Then of course the second one is whether or not it is contagious to them. As previously stated there has been no evidence linking animal infection to humans. While a positive Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Test… Continue reading