pets Archives - Serendipity Mommy

Flea Medication for Dogs Should Never Be Used on Cats – Here’s Why?

May 2, 2018 by Mandy

Casually picking up a pack of spot-on treatment for dogs for your pet cat from supermarket shelves just because you couldn’t find the ones for cats can prove to be a costly mistake. It’s a mistake that has taken the lives of hundreds of cats. In most of these cases, pet owners ran out of cat flea medications and they accidentally used a spray or spot-on ampule meant for dogs. This happens because cats have a metabolic deficiency that makes them highly vulnerable to certain types of pesticides that are commonly used to make dog flea medication. The only way to keep your cat safe is to read the product label before buying and applying any product that contains pesticides. If the product label doesn’t specifically mention if it’s for dogs or cats, it’s best to look for an alternative. Following are a list of ingredients found in dog flea meds that should never be used on cats.

Tea Tree Oil: How can something natural be harmful? By that logic cobra venom, a completely naturally occuring chemical, should be completely safe for everyone. Be smart, don’t fall prey to labels such as ‘herbal’ and ‘natural’. Some manufacturers sell 100% tea tree oil. When properly diluted tea tree oil can kill fleas and ticks but when used raw, this can lead to dangerous side effects in both dogs and cats. Even though it sounds safe, pure tea tree oil is a natural schedule 6 toxin. Products often lack the proper instructions, which leads cat owners to apply undiluted tea tree oil on their pets. This can lead to some serious health issues and even cause death due to toxicosis. Even when properly diluted, pets should be monitored after the application of tea tree oil. Cats, for example, are incessant self-groomers and there have been cases where they accidentally ingested the tea tree oil following a topical application. Ingestion of tea tree oil can lead to coma, tremors, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even death.

Citrus Oil or Extract: This is another example of how a natural ingredient can turn out to be highly toxic. Citrus oil extract is often present in shampoos and sprays. The trouble with citrus oil is that even in small doses it can potentially kill a healthy, adult cat. Make sure to keep a look out for this ingredient if you are buying shampoos, dips, and other pet products for your cat.

Pyrethrins: This a pesticide that’s often used to make dog flea medications. However, when used on cats this ingredient is a killer. Extracted from a flower, pyrethrins is less potent than it’s synthetic version, pyrethroid. While cats are more sensitive to pyrethroid, picking up pyrethrins to treat a flea problem in cats can be a deadly mistake. Be safe, keep a look out for this ingredient.

Organophosphates: From collars to dips, this is a group of chemicals that’s often used in making a lot of anti-flea products for dogs. It’s commonly listed as fenton, malathion, coumaphos, chlorpyrifos, diazinon, fampfhur, cyothioate, and terbufos. Organophosphates are also commonly found in yard and home flea treatment products.

Pyrethroids: A more potent variant, pyrethroids are synthetically produced pyrethrins. It’s often labeled as allethrin, deltamethrin, cypermethrin, permethrin, and cyphenothrin. Permethrin, in particular, is used in a lot of spot-on treatment solutions for dogs, so be careful.

4 Subtle Signs of Flea Infestation in Dogs: How Control An Infestation?

April 3, 2018 by Mandy

For those who are parents to dogs, no word strikes more fear than, fleas! The mere thought of your dog picking up fleas is enough to give anyone the creeps. It’s not just because fleas can infest your dog, but fleas can invade your home. The only real way to prevent a serious home infestation is by being on the lookout for early warning signs.

This guide aims to educate you about the way to detect these subtle signs and take quick action. Without much delay, here are 4 subtle early signs of flea infestation.

More Scratching and Nibbling Than Usual

While it’s normal for dogs to scratch, bite, and lick themselves, they shouldn’t be doing it constantly. If you suddenly notice that your dog is scratching and nibbling more than it usually does then it could be a definite indication of flea activity. Fleas tend to flock certain areas such as groin, tail, neck, armpits, and head. To be sure, checks these areas by parting the fur using a flea comb.

Localized Hair Loss

Another warning sign of flea infestation is localized bald patches. This happens because dogs tend to scratch and nibble certain areas more than others. Flea infestations can also lead to skin rashes, which may cause hair fall.

Red Patchy Skin That Looks like Rash

Dogs can also develop a reddish rash-like skin condition following a flea invasion. These reddish patches are usually allergic reactions to flea bites and saliva. If left untreated, these rashes can lead to an open lesion and infection.

The Remnants of Flea Dirt

Fleas are known to leave behind something called flea dirt. These appear as very small reddish-brown or black specks. You guessed it, these are flea poop. These specks are digested remains of blood that fleas have consumed. This can be spotted on your dog or even around your home if the infestation has reached serious proportions. The dirt feels rough to touch when you are running your fingers through the dog’s fur.

How to Deal with Fleas?

Fleas are something that demands a quick and effective reaction. There is absolutely no reason to delay flea treatment. What makes flea treatment urgent is the fact that the infestation can quickly get out of hand. Flea populations can spread from a single dog and end up affecting the entire neighborhood in a matter of months. Chemical treatment to kill fleas present in the yard and in your home may be warranted following a serious infestation. In early stages, fleas can be controlled by treating the dog. Anti-flea solutions such as Capstar Flea Killer, an orally administered medication, can potentially eliminate the entire population within just six hours. Apart from that, these pills last for 24 hours.

Being on the lookout for the early warning signs of fleas is the smart way to sidestep a serious flea problem. Use a quality flea comb to check for fleas and administer periodic flea medication to keep your dog safe.

Health Warning Signals To Watch Out For In Your Puppy

March 21, 2018 by Mandy

Dog owners all over the world would agree that a pet dog is not just a pet; it is also a valued family member, one that stays loyal and loving even in the worst of times. It is heartbreaking to see these faithful animals in distress or pain, which is why every dog owner should know to look out for some telltale signs and symptoms indicating that the dog is sick. Puppies, in particular, are highly susceptible to illness. The most crucial aspect is that your dog or puppy cannot speak out; it is you who have to be proactive enough to understand that your furry friend is in distress.

On catching the slightest glimpse of any health warning sign, take your puppy to a good vet clinic, where you have some of the best veterinarians and vet technicians certified from renowned vet tech schools in California and other cities. To understand that it is time to visit a vet clinic, here are some of the health warning signals to keep track of.

The puppy seems to lack energy

A characteristic which puppies are known for universally is their wagging tails and happy, curious and carefree disposition. Puppies are almost always excited to interact with people, particularly with their caregivers, and if they appear disinterested, it is a sign that they are already sick, or are just coming down with an illness.

Loss of appetite

If the puppy seems reluctant to eat, it might not be just because he or she does not like the food variant provided; the reason may be more serious. Lack of appetite is a serious sign of sickness or possible infection. Potentially dangerous outcomes can be canine distemper and heartworm disease, so the caregiver has to be vigilant on this.

The little dog’s coat is dull

A coat that lacks luster is a sign of a sick pup. If one has been feeding the dog properly and taking good care of the furry animal, the pet’s coat should be sleek and shiny. A dull coat could indicate a minor ailment such as a food allergy, or it could point to serious conditions like kidney disease.

The pup is running a fever

Fevers can be quite commonplace amongst humans, but they are not to be taken lightly in puppies. A fever can be a warning sign for many health problems, and owners should visit vet clinics at once if they find out that their pups are running a fever.

Your pup whimpers frequently

Little pups tend to whimper occasionally for many reasons; they miss their mother and siblings, they want attention. There can, in fact, be a plethora of reasons. However, if the pup is whimpering and whining often, it may be his way of saying that he is not feeling well or is injured. If comforting the animal does not work, veterinary care may be required.

These were only the basic warning signs of sickness. Anyone caring for a pup has to keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms exhibited by the pet so that that necessary medical attention can be provided immediately.

Preparing Your Home for a New Dog

March 15, 2018 by Mandy

It is always an exciting prospect to welcome a new dog into the family. However, it also takes a lot of preparation and commitment in making sure that your home is safe and comfortable for your new pet. There are a few things to take into consideration in preparing your abode for a new four-legged resident, especially for first-time dog owners.

Pet-proof your surroundings. Dogs are just like little children – they are extremely active, curious, and energetic. They explore their surroundings with enthusiasm, sometimes to their detriment. That is why you need to keep them safe by preventing potential hazards and accidents.

Just as you would childproof a home, review your home’s layout and anticipate possible danger zones. These are places where your dog may get stuck or injured, such as doorways and cabinets. Keep fragile items out of reach and stow away poisonous materials and chemicals. If needed, cover electrical outlets and place bump guards on sharp corners.

Prepare your pet’s personal belongings. Welcome your new pet by establishing his own little place within the home. You can choose to give him a soft bed, pillow, or an indoor cage. Of course, don’t forget to get a dog collar and other stuff like their own food bowl, water feeder, toys, etc. A great idea is to personalize these items with their very own name. You’d be surprised just how your dog will take to these things well.

Depending on your dog’s breed and the kind of lifestyle you live, you might also need to get him other accessories like a dog stroller or carrier especially if you plan on going out often. If you are bringing in a puppy, you will need additional items particularly suited for rearing and training him.

Stock up on supplies. Part of your new dog’s personal belongings is a reliable supply of food, snacks, and other consumables such as medicine, vitamins, supplements, and the like. You wouldn’t want to run out of these items in the middle of an emergency. It’s best to stock up on at least a week’s worth of consumables.

To prepare your dog in case of calamities such as earthquakes, typhoons, flooding, and similar disasters, it would be wise to come up with an emergency grab bag that contains essential items and supplies. Include copies of important documents and identification papers, as well as your personal information so that you can be located in case he gets lost.

Keep clean and organized. Sanitized surroundings are beneficial not only for a house’s human occupants but for pets as well. If you are bringing home a dog for the first time, especially a puppy, you will need to step up the cleanliness of your environment. This helps prevent diseases and parasites from afflicting your dog.

Assign a place where all pet-related items can be located and kept, such as a dedicated cupboard in the kitchen or a large, covered bin. Regularly wash and sanitize pet items such as toys, beds, pillows, blankets, and the like. Make sure to housebreak your pet as soon as possible so that he also learns his part in keeping the home clean. If he does pee or poop indoors, clean it up well and immediately – don’t let such waste fester.

New dog, new life

For many, a new dog in the home really means a new lifestyle. It takes adjustment not only on the part of the animal, but mostly on your part as his human. Having a pet is not all fun and games, but also serious dedication to the welfare of your companion. By ensuring that your home is pet-friendly and ready, you will see that your relationship with your dog will deepen and develop into a truly satisfying and fulfilling one.

4 Reasons Why It’s Important to Play With Your Pets After Work

January 5, 2018 by Mandy

Your dogs or cats are happy to see you after a long day of work. For some pets, this part of the day is their favorite time for playing. They’re excited to see you, so it’s a great time to bring out the toys and start having fun. Here are four benefits to playing with your furry best friends after you get home from work.

Burning off energy

Dogs often spend long hours in their crates while you’re away from the house. They haven’t had the opportunity to burn off any of their energy for the day. If you don’t give them a chance to do this, then they may get out their energy through bad behavior.

Try to stick to a regular schedule, so your pets know exactly when playtime starts. It’s okay to take some time to decompress after work, but it’s important to set the appropriate expectations for an excited dog or cat.

Healthy exercise

Exercise is an important part of keeping your best friend around for as long as possible. Highly active dogs need the most exercise, although you don’t want to overlook pets that aren’t as high-energy.

As with humans, the benefits of exercise for your dog or cat include better cardiovascular health, improved metabolism, a healthy appetite and more. Make time for your pet to run around the house or yard once you get in from your commute. If you have a dog park nearby, you can also improve your pet’s socialization skills.

Mental stimulation

Sitting alone in the house all day can get pretty boring. Your pets need mental stimulation through enriching activities and toys. While they may be able to entertain themselves while you’re at work, it’s not as engaging as playing with you.

Try to mix up the play style and toys that you use when you’re having fun with your dog or cat. Cycle new items into the toy box on a regular basis, so your pets are getting new experiences. Older toys can get passed on to friends with pets or to animal shelters. If you have animals that destroy their toys through rough play, try getting toys made of tougher material or subscribing to a pet toy box service that delivers monthly.

Bonding opportunities

You’re one of the most important people in your pets’ lives. You care for them, pick up their poop, keep them fed and love them unconditionally. Playing with your pet gives you a chance to reinforce the bond between you, which is particularly important if you need to give them a pill, like a flea medicine for dogs.

Cats are fairly independent and may act more like they grudgingly tolerate you rather than viewing you as the head of the pack. Dogs, on the other hand, need leadership.

Adding in positive reinforcement during after-work playtime helps strengthen your bond and build trust. It takes time before a dog accepts you as the head of the pack, and a consistent playtime shows your companion that you’re reliable and friendly.

Playtime is more than just a chance for your pets to have fun. They’re improving their health, staying mentally stimulated, developing a closer bond with you, and going through their endless stores of energy. Take a look at your post-work schedule and figure out when you’ll have the time every day to play with your pets.