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How Healthy Is Your Cat?

November 8, 2017 by Mandy

You could spend forever worrying about your cat when everything’s fine because they’re such precious animals, but when you know there’s something up with their health, then it can be even worse. It might be that their behavior has changed in some way, and you’re worried about your cat’s mental health, or else it might be that their eating routine has changed. While you can definitely worry too much, you should know what to look out for if you have a real concern. It might be their age that’s causing them to act differently, or their exercise routine, they might have a parasite or pest, it might be their diet, or it could even be an issue related to your cat’s mental health. Read on to get to the bottom of your cat’s behavior and to find out how healthy it is.

Requirements of Kittens and Senior Cats

There’s a lot to do if you’re either about to buy a new kitten or if you’ve just bought one. Firstly, you need to speak to a vet about organizing the correct vaccinations, registering with the vet itself, and it might also be worth thinking about an insurance plan. Then you need to prepare the house, removing anything that might be a hazard to your curious and delicate little kitten. You’ll need to make a start litter box training as well as mediating the new cat’s socialization with any existing cats or pets. If you haven’t done all of these things, then your cat might not be as healthy as it should be.

Senior cats, however, have different requirements. Senior cats need regular check-ups at their registered vets, possibly regular biannual check-ups, and if they do start to develop conditions associated with older cats, then it’s essential that you do all of the research necessary to understand their conditions and what help they need from you. They’ll need feeding smaller meals at more regular intervals, and it’s essential that they have a regular exercise routine – playing is an essential part of an older cat’s life, so you should watch out for signs of inactivity in your animal.

Exercise: Indoor and Outdoor

Your cat’s indoor exercise should consist of lots of playing with toys and running around. If you use toys to play with your cat regularly then you’ll notice roughly how long it takes them to get tired, and you can start to build up its energy levels. This is absolutely essential if your cat stays permanently indoors, but it’s still important if your cat likes to play outside. An outdoor cat will get a lot of its exercise from playing outside, but it can be a worry for pet owners because you may be afraid of accidents occurring when it’s outside. It might be that your cat is being bullied by another cat whenever it goes outside, which can result in stress, physical injuries, and even a sudden loss of appetite to go outside; it could, alternatively, be because you live near a busy street. Running around every corner of the house is a sign of stress in a cat, so it might be worth thinking about how your cat is getting along outside.

Diet, Weight and Overall Health

There are many aspects to your cat’s general health, and although many of these can be identified through regular trips to the vet, it’s always worth knowing what to look out for. A cat’s fur and teeth can both reveal ill health; look out for patchy or thinning fur, especially if your cat seems to be doing it to itself, and any sign of gum disease or painful tooth problems in the animal need to be treated by a vet as soon as possible. Are there any signs of your cat having problems with its eyesight? This should be noticeable if you use toys to play with your cat regularly, and a vet will be able to help you give the right support. Is your cat too over or underweight? Either way, you need to put in place a feeding routine that works for your cat. It might be that your cat doesn’t like dry food, in which case you should look into trying your cat on wet food instead. Research the top best cat food wet, and experiment with different textures and flavors of food until you’ve found one your cat enjoys.

Fleas, Ticks, Worms and a Check-up at the Vet

Fleas are probably the most common, and you shouldn’t let an infestation get out of your control. If you find fleas on your cat, then you need to work out the scale of the infestation to find the right solution. If your whole house is infested, then you’ll need to either use a flea bomb or else get professional help in. One of the many ways your cat can get worms is by licking fleas off its body and eating them, but there are many types of worms that they can catch in all kinds of different ways which all vary in severity. The important thing is that you don’t become complacent about worms – make sure they’re regularly treated against worms, and you can even check at the vets if they are carrying any parasites around with them. Ticks are also common, and like fleas, they can give your cat anemia if they consume too much of your cat’s blood, as well as Lyme disease. If your cat does have ticks, remember not to try removing them with your fingers – you need a tick hook to remove them properly. Your vet will be more than happy to check up on any of these or help you out with an infestation.

Mental Health

Just like humans, cats can have mental health challenges as well, and it’s essential that pet owners have a level of understanding of the issues that could be affecting their cat’s lives. Symptoms of stress, anxiety and discomfort can vary from dramatic vocalizations, pacing, sucking fabric and licking out chunks of their own fur, while the cause of stress might be something simpler. Is there a hierarchy among all of the cats in the household? Is your cat getting enough time to play? Is your cat having a tough time when out the house? All of these issues will need some attention, and it might be worth working out a strategy with your local vet if you’re struggling with any of these problems.

How You Can Ensure Your Dog’s Oral Health is Excellent

September 28, 2017 by Mandy

Have you ever stopped and given consideration to your dog’s oral health? Regardless of age or breed, oral health is an important issue to be aware of in any dog. Poor oral health in a dog can lead to infections, sore gums, teeth falling out, rotting tooth sockets, and more. Reports from vets state that about 85% of dogs who are over the age of four are currently suffering from some sort of periodontal disease.

Unfortunately, dogs’ mouths are somewhat of a breeding ground for bacteria, which means it’s very easy for things to spiral out of control. So, what can you do as a pet owner to help keep your dog’s oral health in check and prevent these painful issues from occurring? Here are some steps you can follow.

Schedule Regular Visits to the Vet

If you can’t remember the last time you took your dog to the vet for a routine check-up, chances are it’s well overdue. It is suggested that a normal, healthy dog, between the ages of one through ten, should be visiting the vet yearly for a check-up. Obviously, if the dog develops other health issues they would need even more regular checkups.

During the check-up, the vet will be able to take a look in their mouth and identify any potential problem areas. Some vets even have designated staff that deal with dog dentistry. Take, for example, the California Veterinary Specialists who have a dentist as part of the staff. What this means is that if there are problems, you can have them dealt with right there in the same office.

Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

Just like you brush your teeth, your dog needs that same attention and care. Many dog owners feel apprehensive about brushing their dog’s teeth and feel it won’t be an easy process. It will take some getting used to, but this is when reward treats can come in very handy. Once your dog realizes that it won’t hurt them, they may actually start to like it.

It’s a good idea to start out small and only brush for 30 seconds. You can build up over the course of a few weeks until you’re able to brush each side of their mouth for a couple of minutes, every other day.

Don’t Ignore Bad Breath

While you may just think it’s normal for your dog to have bad breath, in reality this can be a warning sign that something is going on with their oral health. It’s a good idea to take your pet into your vet and have them take a look.

Give Your Dog Food that Helps with Dental Health

Today, there are all kinds of food, treats, and toys that have been specially designed to help aid oral health. This can’t replace the act of brushing their teeth, but they can certainly be helpful to give. These products are typically used to help with tartar and plaque control.

All of these steps will help you to keep your dog’s oral health well under control.

7 Reasons to Get Your Kids a Dog

June 2, 2017 by Mandy

For the most part, dogs are friendly and affectionate animals that can have a positive impact on a child’s development. Dogs aren’t just the family pet; they can become a firm best friend, a protector, and even a teacher for little ones. So, it’s no surprise that many children dream of having their very own dog as a pet.

However, from a parent’s point of view, the decision to get a dog isn’t a small one. A dog will not only take up a chunk of the family budget in food, accessories and vet bills, they also require a lot of attention, with daily walks and perhaps training if you choose to get a puppy. If you can’t decide whether it’s worth it, here are seven reasons to convince you.

Reason #1. Dogs are a Great Best Friend:

With their own pet dog, you can be sure that your little one is never going to be lonely or bored. Even if their friends can’t come over to play, siblings are busy with homework or the weather outside isn’t great, a dog provides the perfect, eager playmate who’ll always be there for them. Dogs are well known for their companionship and loyalty, and they’ll be right there through the good times and the bad to celebrate with your child or cheer them up if needed. Check out these top dog tips to help your child get started looking after their new friend.

Reason #2. Dogs Encourage Physical Activity:

Today, more and more kids are spending their spare time playing on games consoles or staring at an iPad screen. But, while technology certainly has a part to play in education and development in the modern world, it’s important to get the balance right. Many parents worry that their children aren’t playing outside and getting as much physical activity as they should be at such a young age. Dogs need to be regularly walked and exercised, plus they love to play, run and chase – helping to keep the whole family active. In turn, this will lead to a stronger, healthier immune system – in fact, studies show that children who grow up with dogs tend to take less time off school due to sickness. Another study even found that dog owners in general recover from illness more quickly – in some cases, even a heart attack.

Reason #3. Dogs Teach Skills and Responsibility:

Children like to spend a lot of time with their pets, and looking after a dog is one of the best ways to teach them responsibility and accountability from a young age. Even young children can understand that a dog must be cared for every day, giving them food and water and taking them for a walk. As your child grows up, they will learn how it feels to be in charge and how to uphold their commitments to others. Also, having a dog can help with a range of other skills. For example, your child can practice reading by reading stories to their pet, who’ll be more than willing to listen without interrupting. On the other hand, having a dog can be one of the best ways to help your child improve their social skills, and when you’re out walking your dog, you can meet and interact with other pet owners.

Reason #4. Dogs Offer Protection and Security:

When trained correctly and cared for, dogs are very loyal pets who will do anything to protect their beloved owners. A dog can offer protection for your child when they need it most; they will be there to fend off any bullies when you aren’t around, and can even detect if something is wrong, for example, if your child falls ill but isn’t yet showing any symptoms. Since dogs have excellent noses, they can also be hugely useful for children with certain allergies, as you can train them to detect various allergens around the home. In addition, dogs can also offer your child a sense of emotional security; knowing that your pet loves you is one of the best feelings in the world.

Reason #5. Dogs Can Reduce Stress and Anxiety:

Children of today can often be under tremendous pressure, with school exams starting at younger ages than ever before, and mounting peer pressure becoming the norm. So, it’s no surprise that many children are no stranger to stress and anxiety; whether it’s about fitting in with peers at school or doing well on an entrance exam. Thankfully, dogs are here to help them through the stressful times. Cuddling with your favorite pet releases a hormone known as oxytocin, which acts by relaxing the body and mind and soothing away anxiety.

Reason #6. Dogs Can Help Manage Behavioral Problems:

A pet dog can also help to manage any behavioral problems that kids may display. Many children grow out of their childhood behavioral issues, and a dog can help to speed this process up. For example, children who are overly hyperactive and even aggressive can find a healthy outlet for their energy by playing with a dog. On the other hand, even children who tend to be bad-tempered, or even spiteful, can be softened and taught discipline when looking after and interacting with a faithful, patient dog. In addition, children with special needs and learning difficulties often respond well to having a dog around.

Reason #7. Dogs Can Boost Self-Esteem:

Every caring parent wants their child to grow up with good self-esteem and a strong sense of self-worth, but sadly, this doesn’t always happen. There are many factors, both inside and outside of the home, that could have a lasting effect on the way your child views and thinks about themselves. However, having a pet dog has been shown to have a positive effect on children’s self-esteem. This is for a number of reasons; along with reducing anxiety and stress, the loyalty of a dog to your child serves as a constant reminder of how important they are to their pet.

Getting a dog may be a big commitment, but it can certainly be worth it regarding benefits for your little ones.

How children benefit from pet ownership

February 9, 2017 by Mandy

While getting a pet of any kind may feel like a natural progression for your family, or simply a ‘nice’ idea at the time, you’ll soon discover that your new householder has so much to give, and to teach you, in return for your care. Whether you’ve chosen a dog, a cat, a rabbit, or a fish, your new pet has the ability to strengthen your family’s bond, and to aid the emotional, physical, and educational development of your children.

Here are just a few of ways that pet ownership could benefit your child, or children…

Forging friendships

Numerous studies have shown that pet ownership can improve kids’ emotional intelligence, and that those who grow up with animals are more compassionate than those who don’t get their first cat, dog, rabbit, or fish until later in life. Your children’s pets are likely to be their very first friends, and the bond that they’ll develop will be one of utter devotion and trust.

Learning how to care for an animal teaches children about the needs of others, and allows them to identify when someone, or something, is feeling happy, sad, or unwell. These social interactions will prove vital in later life, teaching your child how to forge friendships as they approach school age and beyond.

Learning responsibilities

Your child can begin to learn about the responsibilities of pet ownership before your animal comes to stay. Once you’ve chosen the animal you’d like you’re going to need to prepare for his or her arrival, including drawing up a list of jobs, going shopping for essentials, and creating a bed, or safe space, for your pet to reside. Encourage your child to take part in these discussions. What kind of bed would your new pet like? What foods will they eat? What daily activities will you need to complete in order to keep your pet healthy and happy? Engaging your child during those first conversations will give them confidence to take part in pet care and training, and instill in them a sense of responsibility – and importance.

Emotional development

Having a pet can do a lot for a child’s emotional development, and for the emergence of their character and personality. Those who lack confidence, or suffer from anxiety, can often be encouraged to open up to a pet rather than an adult, and may discover a new sense of self that’s been hiding all this time. Pets are incredible stress relievers, and will listen to problems without judgment.

Having an animal of any kind is also a good way to approach the subject of loss. While nobody wants to think about the death of a beloved pet, such an event is an essential part of growing up. The lessons we learn during childhood will shape the kinds of experiences we have as adults. If you’ve recently lost a much-loved pet try not to exclude your child from conversations; listen to their concerns, let them know that it’s okay to grieve, and encourage them to play a part in your pet burial or memorial service. It’s not unhealthy to allow a child to say goodbye to their pet, and valuable lessons can be learned from such an experience.

Improved wellbeing

Pets of any kind can do wonders for a person’s health and happiness, including reduced stress, a lowered heart rate and blood pressure, and improved mental wellbeing; the general feelings of happiness that accompany having an animal can effect our children in the same way they impact our lives. The benefits of having a pet can be felt much further afield too. Having a dog will encourage your child to head outside on a daily basis, and to engage their best friend with games of fetch, catch, and running wild. In an instant, your child is more active than they were beforehand, and enjoying his or her time outdoors. Rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, and other domesticated livestock are similarly fantastic for nurturing a love of nature and the great outdoors, while playing with a cat, bird, or small mammal indoors is still exercise your child may not have been getting before their pet arrived.

Inspiration to learn

Becoming a pet owner can facilitate language development in children, as they spend hours babbling, and then talking to their faithful friends. Animals can also aid cognitive development, as your child strives to learn more about a particular breed and opportunities for play – even grooming an animal can help a child to master simple actions.

Perhaps more subtly, having a pet could help your child during their reading journey, or as they begin to give presentations. Speaking in front of an adult, even a parent, can be daunting, but pets never judge. If your child is a nervous reader, or hates speaking in front of the class, encourage them to practice with only their pet for company; you’ll soon notice a huge leap in their confidence.

From aiding social interactions and inspiring a lifelong addiction to the great outdoors, to providing comfort and encouragement, your new animal is so much more than a pet – he or she is your child’s friend for life.