The Finicky Feline

Cats have a reputation for being finicky. Although many cats are overweight and eat just about anything you place in front of them, other cats are just plain picky and will always be thin. Whether a cat is truly finicky or just doesn’t need to eat a lot is up for debate. Sometimes they eat their meals and other times they turn up their whiskered faces as if to say, “You don’t expect me to eat that, do you?” If your cat is a truly finicky eater, mealtimes can be a frustrating and challenging experience.

Solving the Mystery

Illness or other physical problems may cause a cat to stop eating. If your cat suddenly doesn’t want to eat, have her checked by your veternarian to make sure that nothing physical is causing her loss of appetite. Place a chart on your refrigerator to keep track of her food consumption. Knowing what is normal for your cat is vital in determining if she has reduced the amount she eats.

If she is eating less than 50 percent of her normal intake for 4 or more days or eating nothing at all for as little as 48 hours, she could develop serious liver problems. Skipping a meal is fairly safe, but skipping more than one meal could spell trouble.

There are many reasons why your cat might become finicky.

The size of your cat’s bowl may have something to do with how appealing her meals have become. That cute little bowl you bought when she was a kitten is now too small for her to stick her head into and eat. Her whiskers flatten against the sides, and she gets food on her face. As soon as she lowers her head into the bowl, she wants to lift it out again.

Perhaps you are feeding her in a lightweight plastic bowl or on a paper plate that slides around as she eats. If the plate moves around or slides under the furniture, she may become frustrated and decide that eating is just too much trouble. If your cat’s bowl is flat, and the food slides onto the floor behind it, she may give up rather than scrape up the pieces that fell behind or under the plate.

Where your cat’s bowl is placed may contribute to how much or little she wants to approach it. Look at mealtimes from your cat’s perspective. Is the bowl near your dog’s bed? Is it near a noisy piece of equipment such as the washing machine? Is it near a door where family members frequently come and go? Is it in a damp location such as the basement? All of these places may have a negative impact on her appetite.

Sometimes a cat appears to be finicky because she is intimidated by other household members or pets. Perhaps the cat hides under the bed at mealtimes because there’s a loud, overly active child in the house who harasses her as she eats. The child thinks he’s being playful, but his antics frighten the cat. Dogs are famous for wanting to eat cat food when it is available and may scare off your cat before she takes her first bite.

Other causes include spoiled food, food that has become stale because it has been left sitting out too long or food that is overcome with ants or other insects.

If your cat suffers from bad teeth or gums, the condition may reduce her appetite or make it difficult for her to eat.

Cats internalize stress, and if there is any stress or sudden changes in the household such as a family member leaving or new people arriving, or changes in routine such as you working late, your cat may not be as interested in her food.

Cats may eat less in warm weather than they do in the winter months, even though they may not go outside. And, if your cat eats only one kind of food, she may be just plain bored with it.

Foiling the Finicky Eater

Although many cats do well on a diet of only one type of food (if it is complete and balanced), they may lose interest in it over time. The best way to prevent your cat from becoming finicky is to accustom her to a variety of flavors when she is still a kitten. A cat eating only one kind of food may have a more difficult time changing to a new food if a medical condition requires that she be put on a prescription diet.

Make sure your cat has an adequately sized bowl and that it is placed in a location that is appropriate from her point of view. Many cats prefer to be off the floor when there are other pets or small children around, so find an elevated place that is acceptable to you and your cat if tiny hands or floppy feet frighten her off.

If you are feeding your cat only dry food, adding a tasty broth will put variety into her mealtimes. Or, if your cat has problems with her teeth, dry food can be difficult for her to chew. Soften her food in some water from a can of people tuna or in some clam juice. Bouillon or chicken broth also make dry food softer and tastier.

Try feeding your cat canned food or jars of baby food occasionally to entice her to eat. If your cat is stubborn, offer her cooked meats or cooked fish to stimulate her appetite. Warming her food will help bring out the flavor, but be careful it isn’t too hot for her to ingest.

If you’ve just changed your cat’s diet , she may be refusing to eat the new food. Begin offering her a little of the new food mixed in with her old food. Over the course of a few weeks, gradually increase the amount of new food in the mix.

A little creativity and patience will help you keep your cat interested in her meals and keep your stress level down while trying to get your finicky feline to eat.

Please visit us at  www.siamese-cattailscattery.com

Acute Renal (Kidney) Failure in Cats

By: Christian Yost

March 27, 2009

Acute kidney failure (acute renal failure or ARF) is characterized by an abrupt decline in kidney function that leads to changes in the chemistry of the body including alterations in fluid and mineral balance. The changes that arise as a result of ARF affect almost every body system.

The kidneys filter blood, remove the waste products of metabolism and eliminate them in the urine. The kidneys also regulate the volume and composition of body fluids (including mineral concentrations and acid base balance), and produce hormones that stimulate the production of red blood cells (erythropoietin) and regulate calcium balance (calcitriol).

Acute kidney failure can be caused by toxic injury to the kidneys, decreased blood flow and oxygen delivery to the kidneys, infections, obstruction of the kidneys and prevention of urine elimination caused by a ruptured bladder.

The recent recognition of kidney failure is not necessarily the same as acute renal failure, since some animals with chronic kidney failure tolerate it for some time before symptoms are apparent.

There is no specific breed predilection but older animals are thought to be at greater risk for acute kidney failure. Acute kidney failure is more common in the fall and winter due to pet exposure to anti-freeze which contains ethylene glycol. Cats that are allowed to roam outside without supervision potentially have increased exposure to ethylene glycol.

The symptoms of ARF, although often severe, are not specific. Even with intensive management, ARF is a very serious disorder and often is fatal.

What to Watch For

Disorientation

Incoordination

Decreased urine production

Straining to urinate

Loss of appetite

Lethargy

Vomiting

Weakness

Changes in water consumption and urination

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will take a complete medical history specifically questioning exposure to ethylene glycol (anti-freeze), recent surgery or anesthesia (possibly causing decreased blood flow to the kidneys), exposure to drugs toxic to the kidneys (aminoglycoside group of antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and previous illnesses. The following diagnostic tests may also be necessary to recognize acute kidney failure and exclude other diseases. Tests may include:

Complete physical examination

Serum biochemistry tests

Urinalysis

Complete blood count

X-rays of the abdomen

Culture of the urine

Ultrasound examination

Kidney biopsy

Ethylene glycol test

Blood tests for certain infections

Treatment

ARF is a life-threatening serious condition that requires hospitalization and intensive treatment. Treatment consists of identification and correction of life-threatening problems while searching for the underlying cause of ARF. Treatment for ARF may include one or more of the following:

Induce vomiting

Intravenous fluids

Drugs that encourage urine production

Management of blood electrolyte abnormalities

Monitor urinary output

Control of vomiting

Management of anemia

Peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis

Treatment with 4-methylpyrazole (Antizol®) or ethanol

Home Care

Acute renal failure is a life-threatening condition and there is no effective home treatment. If you suspect your pet has this condition, or if you even suspect your pet may have consumed even a small amount of anti-freeze, you should call your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian may instruct you to induce vomiting before bringing your pet to the hospital.

Administer any medications prescribed by your veterinarian. Follow-up examinations and laboratory tests are important to assess your pet’s response to treatment. Allow free access to fresh clean water.

Preventative Care

Avoid exposure to ethylene glycol (anti-freeze), and avoid exposure to drugs known to be toxic to the kidney (e.g. aminoglycoside antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Don’t allow cats to roam outside unattended.

Acute renal failure (ARF) is a life-threatening disorder that can affect cats of any age.

Acute renal failure may be caused by decreased blood flow to the kidneys (called ischemia) or exposure to certain drugs or chemicals that are toxic to the kidneys.

Low blood flow to the kidneys may occur during anesthesia and surgery, and some drugs such as the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents like ibuprofen may also cause ARF by reducing blood flow to certain parts of the kidneys. Other causes of reduced blood flow to the kidneys include severe dehydration, shock, poor heart function, heat stroke and overwhelming infection (sepsis).

Many toxins can damage the kidneys and lead to ARF. Probably most important is ethylene glycol, which is the active ingredient of anti-freeze. Some antibiotics, especially a class of injectable antibiotics known as aminoglycosides, can cause damage to the tubules of the kidney and ARF.

High blood calcium concentration likewise can damage the kidneys. Heavy metals (e.g. lead, arsenic), contrast dyes used for certain X-ray procedures, and some anesthetics also can damage the kidneys. An important toxin that specifically affects the kidneys of cats is the Easter Lily. Cats should never be allowed access to this group of plants. Some older drugs used to treat heartworms (thiacetarsamide) and fungal infections (amphotericin B) also are toxic to the kidneys.

Acute bacterial infection of the kidneys (called pyelonephritis) also can produce ARF.

Rare causes of ARF include glomerulonephritis (acute inflammation of the microscopic filtering devices of the kidney called glomeruli), glomerular amyloidosis (deposition of an insoluble type of protein in the kidney), disseminated intravascular coagulation (a body-wide clotting disorder), obstruction by blood clots of the arteries going to the kidneys, and hemolytic-uremic syndrome (liver and kidney failure caused by a specific strain of the bacteria E. coli).

Urinary obstruction is a type of reversible ARF that is treated by relieving the obstruction.

The most common causes of death during treatment of ARF are high blood potassium concentration, acid-base disturbances, very high concentrations of waste products in the blood that do not improve with fluid therapy and excessive administration of fluids with fluid accumulation in the lungs.

Animals unable to produce urine despite medical treatment have little chance for survival without peritoneal dialysis (infusion and removal of fluid into the abdominal cavity to remove waste products from the body). Hemodialysis can be performed in animals but is only available at selected referral hospitals and is very costly.

The prognosis for recovery of kidney function in ARF depends on the severity of the kidney damage, the underlying cause of ARF and supportive treatment.

Other medical problems can lead to symptoms similar to those encountered in ARF. A thorough medical evaluation is needed to diagnose ARF including laboratory testing and diagnostic imaging (X-rays or ultrasound). Warning signs that owners may see in pets with ARF include complete loss of appetite, marked lethargy, and vomiting. Unfortunately, these symptoms are very non-specific and may be caused by many other disease conditions. If is important to consult your veterinarian promptly.

Veterniary care should include diagnostic tests of kidney function, including blood tests and urinalysis, and subsequent treatment recommendations.

Diagnosis

Diagnostic tests may be needed to recognize ARF and to exclude other diseases. Tests may include:

A complete medical history and physical examination

A complete blood count (CBC) to evaluate for signs of infection, inflammation, anemia or clotting abnormalities

Blood biochemistry tests to identify the presence of kidney failure. Commonly used tests to identify kidney failure include blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine, and serum phosphorus. These test results are abnormally high in patients with kidney failure but these tests alone do not identify whether the kidney failure is acute or chronic. The veterinarian must use other tests and diagnostic reasoning to determine if the kidney failure is acute or chronic.

Urinalysis. Protein, blood or glucose may be observed in the urine of patients with ARF. The presence of microscopic crystals (such as calcium oxalate) can support a diagnosis of ethylene glycol (anti-freeze) poisoning. Microscopic casts of the kidney tubules often are seen with acute injury of the kidney, and white blood cells or casts may be found when kidney infection is present.

Additional diagnostic tests may be recommended for individual pets, including:

Kidney ultrasonography to determine if the kidney failure is acute or chronic and to help identify some specific causes of ARF (e.g. anti-freeze poisoning). Kidneys of patients with ARF typically are normal-sized to large. The presence of small, irregularly-shaped kidneys more often suggests a chronic kidney disease. Cats that drink anti-freeze often have kidneys that have increased density on  within a few hours of consuming anti-freeze.

A urine culture to identify urinary tract infection

Blood gas analysis to identify acid-base disturbances

Arterial blood pressure should be monitored because high blood pressure can complicate ARF. Central venous pressure may be monitored with a catheter in the jugular vein, especially if an inadequate volume of urine is produced.

Ethylene glycol testing to diagnose this toxicity; a special test kit is required for this purpose.

Kidney biopsy may be necessary to determine the cause of ARF and to guide treatment and prognosis.

Therapy

Treatments for ARF may include one or more of the following:

Treatment of ARF must be individualized based on the cause and severity of the condition, as well as other conditions and complications identified by your veterinarian. Of great importance is the ability of the pet to produce urine. Low urine output or complete absence of urine production is a very serious finding.

Prognostic signs are poor if the pet does not respond to initial drug and fluid therapy. The ultimate goal of ARF management is to provide supportive care while allowing the kidneys time to recover. Your veterinarian should identify and correct the most life-threatening body chemistry problems while searching for the cause of ARF. Drugs that may be contributing to ARF should be discontinued. Dehydration is corrected by intravenous administration of fluids.

Vomiting may be induced if a kidney toxic agent has been ingested within the past few hours and the cat has not yet vomited. This is especially important in anti-freeze poisoning in which time is critical. Always call your veterinarian immediately if you believe your pet has consumed even the smallest quantity of anti-freeze.

Fluid therapy is important to increase kidney blood flow, correct and prevent dehydration and control abnormalities in serum electrolytes. Care must be taken to avoid overhydration, because the kidneys may not be able to produce sufficient urine to eliminate excess fluid. Overhydration can lead to fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema) which may be life-threatening. Nevertheless, fluid therapy is extremely important initially, and drug therapy may be required to encourage urine production.

Fluid therapy may aid kidney function and encourage urine production. Diuretics may be used after rehydration. Mannitol and furosemide are diuretic agents that may be given, often in combination with dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical that causes dilation of the renal arteries and potentially can increase filtration in the kidneys when administered at low dosages.

Management of hyperkalemia (high blood potassium concentration) is important because potassium is toxic to the heart. Treatment may include sodium bicarbonate, glucose and insulin, calcium, or dialysis. An electrocardiogram should be monitored during treatment.

Acid base imbalance is corrected by administration of sodium bicarbonate.

Abnormally high blood phosphorus concentration may be treated with intestinal phosphorus binders such as aluminum hydroxide.

Cats with ARF may vomit frequently and several different drugs may be used to control this symptom.

Anemia due to blood loss can be treated with blood transfusion.

Ethylene glycol poisoning may be treated with 4-methylpyrazole (Antizol) or 20 percent ethanol.

Close patient monitoring is vital. Monitoring may include serial body weight (to facilitate proper fluid therapy), measurement of urine output (often with a urinary catheter), packed cell volume (an indication of the percentage of the blood that consists of red blood cells), and total plasma proteins to monitor fluid volume. Serial determination of serum biochemistry tests is necessary to determine if the animal is responding to treatment.

Treatment for ARF may require several days or as long as two to three weeks depending on the underlying cause of ARF and the response of the individual animal to treatment. This prolonged hospitalization can be frustrating for all concerned, because it frequently is impossible to predict the outcome. If conservative medical treatment fails, peritoneal dialysis (or in exceptional circumstances hemodialysis) may be a treatment possibility. Referral to a specialist or 24-hour critical care facility is required for dialysis treatment.

Euthanasia must be considered for pets that do not respond to treatment.

Please visit us at www.siamese-cattailsattery.com

Dangerous Viruses That Can Affect Your Cat

By: Christian Yost

March 26, 2009

The viruses that cause feline leukemia and feline AIDS are similar in that they cause immune suppression. Both viruses hold down an infected cat’s natural immunity to disease. Your cat’s mouth, nose, lungs, skin and intestines are normally covered with bacteria and viruses. However, the normal immune system keeps these bacteria in check and prevents disease. In feline AIDS or feline leukemia, that natural immunity is reduced to the level that allows any bacteria or virus to multiply and cause disease.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

Overview

One of the most dangerous infectious diseases in cats today is caused by the feline leukemia virus (FeLV). FeLV is a retrovirus that is specific to cats only and is the most common cause of serious illness and death in domestic cats. It suppresses the immune system, impairing your cat’s ability to fight infections. It may also cause anemia, leukemia and some forms of cancer.

FeLV cannot be transmitted to humans (including children) or other species such as dogs.

FeLV is spread by contact through the saliva, tears and urine by way of bite wounds, shared dishes or litter pans, or close contact (grooming). Kittens can be born with FeLV or acquire the virus through their mother’s milk.

What To Look For

There are no specific symptoms that will tell you that your cat has FeLV. Your pet may develop a fever, poor appetite, lethargy, or suffer from recurring infections. He will most likely lose weight and suffer from a skin condition. Symptoms may include:

Pale gums

Weakness

Lethargy

Diarrhea

Weight loss

Anorexia

Breathing difficulties

Increased thirst and neurologic abnormalities

Diagnosis and Treatment

FeLV is easily diagnosed by a simple blood test, and you should test all new cats for this virus. Once your cat tests negative, a vaccine is available to help reduce the risk of infection with the virus. Although it is not 100 percent effective, the vaccine does offer immunity to most cats and has minimal side effects.

You should vaccinate all cats 10 weeks or older who are likely to be at increased risk of becoming infected. This includes cats that spend any time outdoors, in multiple-cat households, or at catteries and cat shows. If your cat is strictly indoors, you may want to discuss the need for FeLV vaccine with your veterinarian. FeLV and rabies vaccinations have been implicated in the very rare injection-site sarcoma syndrome.

Feline AIDS (FIV)

Overview

Feline immunodeficiency virus, or FIV, is a widespread viral infection that attacks the immune system of cats. It is caused by the same family of viruses that trigger AIDS in humans and has much the same devastating impact on infected cats. It is often referred to as “feline AIDS.” The virus ravages a cat’s immune system, stopping it from effectively combating other diseases and infections. Infected cats eventually fall prey to a wide variety of secondary illnesses that overwhelmingly prove fatal. FIV is not transmissible to people or dogs.

The disease is transmitted from cat to cat by blood and saliva. Cats can transmit FIV to other cats only through biting, not through urine or casual contact, so outdoor and male cats that fight with other cats are at greatest risk. FIV has also been found in mother’s milk and can be transmitted from mother to kitten. The virus itself is easily disinfected and dies within minutes upon exposure to dry surfaces.

What To Look For

Signs that your cat is infected are primarily related to the effects of diseases contracted when the body defenses fail. Ultimately, widespread organ failure occurs, and the cat dies.

Severe infection affecting the gums

Abscesses from fight wounds that don’t heal

Respiratory infections

Weight loss

Poor appetite

Unkempt coat

Diarrhea

Diagnosis and Treatment

A blood test can identify infection. This test is usually performed when your cat is tested for FeLV. A positive test means the cat has been exposed to the virus and will likely be infected for the remainder of his life.

Unfortunately, no vaccine against FIV is available at this time and there is no cure for the disease, but cats can live for up to 10 years – much of it in seemingly good health – before succumbing. However, the virus will still be in the cat and may become active at a later date. Therefore, the long term prognosis is not good.

The best protection from FIV is prevention. Keep your cat indoors and have him or her neutered, because neutered cats tend to fight less. Most importantly, have all new cats or kittens tested for the virus before introducing them to your cats at home.

Please visit us at www.siamese-cattailscattery.com

How to Tell if Your Cat is Ill

By: Christian Yost

March 26, 2009

Your cat cannot explain his symptoms, so it’s the responsibility of you and your veterinarian to keep him healthy. Cats are very good at hiding their illness so it is up to you to observe your cat for abnormalities.  indications of a “sick pet” include: lethargy, disorientation, weakness,weight loss, seizure, lack of appetite,vomiting, diarrhea, unproductive retching, straining to urinate, bloody urine, difficulty or inability to walk, bleeding, pale mucous membranes, difficulty breathing and persistent cough. You know your pet best and can often notice subtle early warning signs that someone else may not detect. If you observe any of the mentioned symptoms or other signs that concern you, call your veterinary hospital. The safest approach would be to have your pet examined.

Once your pet is at the hospital, your veternarian may ask additional questions to help localize or diagnose the problem. It may help to be prepared to answer some of the following questions:

How long have you owned your cat?

What is the age of your cat?

Has your cat experienced any previous illnesses?

Is your cat currently under treatment for an illness or disease?

Has your cat ever been tested for Feline Leukemia  or Feline AIDS

Where did you get your cat (adoption center, breeder, previous stray, etc.)?

What preventative medications is your cat currently taking?

Does your cat receive any consistent flea treatment?

Has your cat been vaccinated? When? For what?

What other type of pets do you have?

Are any other pets ill?

Have there been any recent acquisitions?

Have there been any recent activities such as boarding, grooming, etc.?

Is the majority of your cat’s time spent indoors or outdoors?

Have there been any recent changes in diet or eating habits?

What brand of food does your cat eat? How much? How often?

Do you offer your pet table scraps?

How frequently and what type of treats are offered?

How much water does your cat typically drink per day?

Have there been any recent changes in water consumption?

What type of litter do you use and how frequently is the litter box cleaned?

Have you noticed any coughing or sneezing?

Have you noticed any lumps or bumps on your cat?

Is your cat urinating normally?

Is your cat having normal bowel movements?

When is the last time he/she had a bowel movement?

Have you noticed any recent weight loss or weight gain?After answering some general questions, more specific questions need to be answered. A brief cursory exam of your pet at home can help you determine the answers. These questions are also commonly asked when pet owners are seeking help over the phone. Be prepared to answer the following questions, depending on the problem with your pet:

Regarding the eyes

Have you noticed an increase or decrease in tear production?

Do the eyes appear cloudy or red?

Have you noticed any discharge?

Do the eyes appear bloodshot?

Are the pupils the same size in both eyes?

Have you noticed your pet rubbing or pawing at eyes?

Is your cat squinting his/her eyes?

Do the eyes appear to be sunken or excessively protruding?Regarding the ears

Do you notice any swelling or discharge from the ears?

Are the ears drooping when they normally stand erect?

Are the ears red and inflamed?

Do you notice any odor?

Is your cat rubbing or pawing at the ears?

Have you noticed a lot of head shaking?

Have you noticed any pain or crying when you rub or scratch your cat’s ears?Regarding the nose

Have you noticed any congestion,sneezing or coughing?

Have you noticed any blood coming from the nose?

Have you noticed any nasal discharge?Regarding the mouth

Have you noticed any swelling of the lips or tongue?

Have you noticed any bleeding from the mouth?

What color are the gums – tissue just above the teeth?

Is your cat able to open and close the mouth normally?

Is there any pain involved in opening or closing the mouth?

Have you noticed any excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth?

Is your cat able swallow food normally?

Are there any foreign objects such as bones or sticks stuck on the roof of the mouth or around the teeth?Regarding the chest

Is your pet experiencing any difficulty breathing?

Have you noticed panting?

Is there any pain when the chest area is petted?

Have you noticed any recent coughing?

What is the heart rate?

Is the heartbeat steady and consistent?

Place your hand or your ear on the left side of your cat’s chest, just behind the elbow. You should be able to feel or hear the heartbeat. Count how many beats the heart pumps in one minute.Regarding the abdomen/stomach area

Has your cat been having any diarrhea  or vomiting?

Is your cat able to eat and drink normally?

Does the abdomen/stomach area appear swollen or distended?

Does your cat have pain when the stomach area is petted?

Is your cat known to chew on non-food items such as clothing, towels, strings, etc.?Regarding the urinary and reproductive systems

Have you noticed any difference in urinating?

Does your cat seem to strain to urinate or cry in pain?

Does your cat repeatedly try to urinate with no urine produced?

Is there any blood in the urine?

How frequently does your cat urinate?

Is your female cat spayed? At what age? Did she ever have kittens?

If your cat was not spayed, when was her last heat cycle and was she bred?

Is your male cat neutered? At what age?

Do you notice any discharge from the vaginal area?

Do you notice any discharge from the penis?

If your cat is not neutered, do you notice any swelling of the testicles?

Have you noticed your cat excessively licking or grooming the genital area?Regarding the musculoskeletal system – bones and joints

Have you noticed any limping?

Are any legs or joints swollen?

Has your cat been excessively licking at one area of his/her legs?

Does your pet show signs of pain when walking?

Is your cat able to walk normally?

Does your cat walk on his/her knuckles?

Does your cat drag any legs when walking?

Have you noticed signs of pain when petting your pet?

By supplying the answers to these questions, your veterinarian will be in a much better position to help your pet. Additional tests  may be necessary to find out what the problem is but the answers to the above questions can greatly narrow the area of concern.

Please visit us at www.siamese-cattailscattery.com

Recognizing an Emergency in Cats: Who and When to Call

By: Christian Yost

March 26, 2009

If you’re a typical pet owner, you have probably faced this quandary: Your beloved companion may be ill, but you don’t know whether you’re overreacting or whether you should bring her in to a veterinarian. And she can’t tell you if something is bothering her, or how serious it is.

The simplest way to determine if it is an emergency is if you are concerned, contact a veterinarian. The veterinary  assistants and veterinarian can help you determine if an emergency visit is necessary or prudent.

Performing a brief at-home physical exam may also help you. If you see any abnormalities, consult your veterinarian. For mild symptoms, scheduling an examination may be enough. But you should be aware of the signs that require.

These include:

Seizures

Difficulty breathing

Non-responsive or comatose

Uncontrollable bleeding

Extreme pain

Continued vomiting, especially with blood

If your pet was struck by a car or some other vehicle

Ingesting poisonous material or improper medication

Bloody stools

Collapse

You should have your veterinarian’s phone number and address handy in case of an emergency, along with his/her pager. You should also have the phone number, address and directions to the nearest veterinary emergency clinic.

If you cannot contact your veterinarian or he cannot help you, consult a local veterinary emergency clinic. If all else fails, look in your telephone book and try to find a veterinarian that is available to help.

I know the Animal Needs Medical Help But Who Should I Call?

If you notice an injured animal, try to contact your veterinarian for instruction and assistance.

If your veterinarian is not available, try to contact a local veterinary emergency center or 24-hour veterinary hospital.

Some local humane societies or animal shelters have ambulatory services if you are unable to transport the animal for care.

Animal control officers have equipment and supplies to help transport an injured animal.

Police officers can sometimes be helpful if the injured animal is posing a risk to people (such as affecting traffic flow).

If there is a tag on the injured animal, contact the owner to inform them of what has occurred and where the animal is being taken.

For wild animals, contact an area wildlife rescue or rehabilitation center or conservation department.

Please visit us at www.siamese-cattailscattery.com

Geriatric Cat Care

By: Christian Yost

March 25, 2009

Old age happens to the best of us – even our cats. And as our cats enter into the golden age, they may have specific needs or problems that must be addressed. The aging process brings about a gradual decline in a cat’s physical and sometimes mental abilities. Becoming aware of these issues allows an owner to provide the best possible care.

Not all cats age at the same rate. A cat’s biological age depends upon genetic background, the quality of his diet, his general state of health and the quality of his living conditions. Research estimates that old age for cats begins somewhere between the 8th and 9th birthday.

Ideally, caring for the geriatric cat should focus on preventative measures. Whenever possible, it is better to prevent a problem from occurring, rather than to wait for a problem to develop. Detecting diseases in the early stages greatly improves the outcome.

Different cats have specific risk factors that influence the diagnostic approach to geriatric medicine. Risk factors are characteristics of the breed, genetics, environment and life-style of your cat that may put him or her at greater risk of developing a particular disease or other age related changes.

Veterinary Care

Within the last few decades, advancements invetinary medicine have caused a dramatic increase in the longevity of our pets. Today, cats are living longer and healthier lives. If there is a problem with your older cat, don’t assume it is just because of old age, and that nothing can be done. With appropriate treatment, many conditions can improve. Your veterinarian may do the following to assess your cat’s health and to maintain a healthy condition.

A thorough and complete medical history. Your veterinarian will note changes in behavior and physical abilities.

A complete physical examination

Complete blood count (CBC)

Biochemical profile

Urinalysis

Thyroid level

Fecal exam for parasites

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus(FELV) testing

Treatment

All cats should receive routine vaccinations as required by law (rabies) and vaccines that are appropriate for individual needs. Specific vaccines and frequency of administration may vary, and should be discussed with your veterinarian. Treating an older cat depends on the individual requirements or problems of your pet. The most common problems of geriatric cats are:

Nutritional issues – managing obesity or special needs

Dental disease

Kidney disease

Hyperthyroidism

Diabetes

Hypertension

Cardiac disease

Inflammatory bowel disease

Skin tumors

Cancer

Home Care and Prevention

A periodic inspection of your pet, at home, may uncover potential problems. Make sure that your pet has clean, warm and protected living conditions, and provide easy access to clean fresh water.

Feed a good quality cat food that is appropriate for your cat’s specific needs, and do not allow your pet to gain excessive weight. Discuss unexpected wight gain with your veterinarian. Based on a complete geriatric work-up, a prescription cat food might be advised. Groom your pet and, if possible, brush your cat’s teeth regularly. Finally, follow your veterinarian’s recommendations as to exercise, nutrition and any medications that may be needed.

Pets today are living longer and better quality lives than ever before. Many factors are responsible for this increase including improved nutrition, veterinary care and educated owners. This increased longevity means that there are more cats reaching an older age, and that owner’s will be faced with the special demands and problems that become apparent with age.

Understanding the aging process and the most common problems that face the geriatric cat is the first step in providing the best possible care to your older animal. The main focus of geriatric health care is owner education and the early detection and prevention of disease.

It is important to realize that aging itself is not a disease; it is simply a stage of life. Increasing age causes a gradual decline in the body’s ability to repair itself, maintain normal body functions, and adapt to the stresses and changes in the environment.

Many changes occur in cats as they age.

Changes in metabolism occur so they require less food. Cats, in general, have a more sedentary lifestyle, and older cats, specifically, are usually less active. weight gain and obesity are common problems.

The lack of exercise contributes to reduced muscle tone and strength, further adding to the potential of obesity.

Changes in a cat’s environment or routine may actually contribute to behavioral changes or even illness. Trying to minimize severe or sudden changes in the geriatric animal is always a good practice.

With time, cats begin to have a gradual decline in their senses (hearing, smelling, vision, and taste). Decreased taste sensation can contribute to anorexia, especially if your cat becomes ill.

Your pet may not respond to stimuli as rapidly or in the same manner as when he or she was younger. It is not uncommon for older cats to spend more time sleeping and have more difficulty being roused.

The body’s ability to repair itself decreases, and the function of the immune system is compromised with increasing age. Metabolic and endocrine problems, organ dysfunction and cancer are all seen with increased frequency in the aging cat. Some of these problems may be difficult to help, however it is usually possible to improve the quality of your pet’s life significantly by educating yourself, and becoming aware of potential problems.

Most veterinarians recommend more frequent vetinary visits and additional diagnostic tests for geriatric animals in an effort to find the early stages of disease, before they become problems. Practicing prevention is always better than treating a disease already present. In the long run, preventive medicine improves quality of life, and is more cost effective than waiting for problems to appear. A well-educated and proactive owner is the first step in optimal senior cat care

Many of these tests are recommended on geriatric cats even when they are feeling totally normal. The routine geriatric exam and accompanying diagnostic tests are recommended to ensure that the early stages of disease is discovered, and appropriate preventive measures and treatment plans instituted.

The most common diagnostic tests performed by your veterinarian as part of a complete geriatric work-up include:

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Can Cats Get Heartworm Disease?

Can Cats Get Heartworm Disease?

By: Christian Yost

March 23, 2009

Mosquito season is almost here. Can your in door cat– the one that never goes out – be at risk for heartworm disease? Heartworm disease is a parasitic disease that involves a long thin worm that lives in the blood vessels and heart of infected pets. It is transmitted by mosquitoes and can infect both dogs and cats.

Cats that are indoors may actually be at higher risk than cats that go out. In fact, up to 33 percent of reported cases are in cats who are described by their owners as “strictly indoors.” Males are a bit more likely than females to be affected. Age is not a risk factor; cats of any age can be affected, with cats as young as 1 and as old as 17 having been diagnosed.

Heartworms are present (endemic) in most parts of the United States and in many parts of North America. Mosquitoes are the key – without them the disease cannot spread.

The highest rate of infections is found in subtropical climates like those of the southeastern United States, the Gulf States, and Hawaii.

However, heartworms are also found throughout the central and eastern United States, particularly near oceans, lakes and rivers. When compared to dogs, cats are naturally resistant to heartworms (estimated at about one-fifth as likely to become seriously infected as dogs in the same region); however, heartworm disease in cats is often more severe than in dogs.

Prevention

Prevention of heartworm disease is simple. “Preventatives” kill microscopic larvae that are left behind by mosquitoes when they bite a cat. In most cases, a once-monthly pill (Interceptor® brand of milbemycin for cats or Heartgard® brand of ivermectin for cats) is effective in preventing heartworms from taking hold. A recently available preventative for heartworms, Revolution® brand of selamectin, is applied to the skin once monthly. Revolution can also control fleas. Both Heartgard® for cats and Revolution® also help to prevent intestinal parasites.

Recommendations

Owners of all cats living in areas endemic for heartworms should discuss the pros and cons of preventative care with their veternarian. If dogs in the area receive heartworm prevention, it is likely that cats also may benefit from this protection. Interceptor® for cats, Heartgard® for cats and Revolution® for cats are safe and effective products. Do NOT use your canine heartworm medicine in your cat. The drug dosing is very different between species. Speak to your veterinarian about the need for preventative therapy, administration guidelines and when to start and stop prevention treatments.

Heartworm disease in cats can have a wide range of symptoms, with some cats being completely asymptomatic (no symptoms at all). Others may show vague, generalized clinical symptoms. A small percentage, however, may show severe life threatening symptoms.

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Chronic Vomiting in Cats

Chronic Vomiting in Cats

By: Christian Yost

March 22, 2009

Vomiting is the forceful ejection through the mouth of the contents of the stomach. Occasionally material from the duodenum of the small intestine also accompanies the stomach (gastric) contents. Chronic vomiting is characterized by persistent or recurrent vomiting for more than two weeks.

An occasional bout of vomiting may cause no alarm to the owner; however, persistent, chronic vomiting is usually indicative of an underlying disease. Chronic vomiting often leads to decreased absorption of nutrients and subsequent weight loss. Diarrhea may also accompany the vomiting.

General Causes

Dietary indiscretion (eating inappropriate food/material)

Dietary intolerance

Infectious agents, such as bacteria, fungi, and parasites

Drugs and certain toxins

Obstruction/blockage of the stomach or intestinal tract

Metabolic diseases such as liver and kidney

disease, hyperthyroidism

Abdominal disorders such as pancreatitis, abdominal tumors and adhesions, etc.

Motility disorders of the gastrointestinal tract that prevent the posterior movement of food

Inflammatory bowel diseases

Miscellaneous conditions such as gastric/duodenal ulcers,constipation etc.

Cancer of the gastrointestinal tractWhat to Watch For

Intermittent vomiting

Variable appetite

Weight Loss

Lethargy

Diarrhea

Increased thirst

Presence of blood in the vomitus or stoolDiagnosis

Obtaining a thorough medical history with details on the timing and material vomited is very important. A thorough physical examination is performed, including careful palpation (examining by hand) of the abdomen. Additional diagnostic tests may include:

Complete blood count (CBC)

Urinalysis

Biochemical profile

Chest and abdominal radiographs (X-rays)

Multiple fecal examinationsTreatment

Chronic vomiting is difficult to treat symptomatically, because effective treatment usually depends on the underlying cause. There are several steps your veterinarian might recommend, however, while diagnostic testing is underway. The goals of symptomatic therapy are to initially rest the gastrointestinal tract and then introduce easily digested materials. Symptomatic treatments include:

Withhold all food for 12 – 24 hours, then gradually introduce a bland diet.

A trial of a hypoallergenic diet may be started, for a minimum of six weeks, if dietary hypersensitivity is suspected.

Antiemetic drugs that symptomatically decrease the frequency of vomiting may be tried.

Antacids (drugs that block acid production by the stomach) may also be administered.

Gastric protectants, which are drugs that coat and sooth the GI tract, may also be considered.Home Care

Administer only the prescribed medications and diet recommended by your veterinarian. Observe your pet very closely. If clinical signs are not improving, and/or your pet is getting worse, have your pet evaluated at once.

Vomiting is often preceded by restlessness, salivation, and retching, and requires forceful abdominal contractions to expel the stomach contents. One must differentiate acute from chronic vomiting. One must also differentiate vomiting from regurgitation, which is the effortless evacuation of fluid, food, or mucus from the esophagus. The causes, diagnostic tests, and treatments for regurgitation are quite different from those for chronic vomiting.

Chronic vomiting generally does not respond to symptomatic therapy, and most often necessitates a full diagnostic work-up to determine the underlying cause. If the patient continues vomiting despite being kept off food, if the vomiting is recurrent, and/or if blood is present in the vomitus, your veterinarian should examine the animal. In addition, if your pet appears to be in distress, seems painful, lethargic, or sick in any other way, you should contact your veterinarian at once.Chronic vomiting can be caused by diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or can occur secondary to other systemic diseases. It is important to try to establish the cause of chronic vomiting. If the underlying cause is not removed or treated, it is unlikely the vomiting will resolve.

Chronic, recurrent dietary indiscretion can include eating spoiled food, overeating, ingesting foreign material, and sudden dietary changes.

Dietary intolerance is a reaction to some normal food component. It is most often a response to a particular protein, but can be associated with lactose, diets high in fat, and certain food additives.

Bacterial causes of chronic vomiting include Salmonella and Helicobacter.

Fungal causes of chronic vomiting include histoplasmosis, aspergillosis and phycomycosis

Parasitic causes of chronic vomiting include roundworms, hookworms, and Giardia.

Administration of certain drugs and/or exposure to toxins can cause chronic vomiting by directly irritating the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Examples include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, certain antibiotics, insecticides, heavy metals, and lawn and garden products, etc.

Slowly developing obstruction or blockage of the gastrointestinal tract may cause chronic vomiting. Obstruction may be secondary to foreign bodies, tumors, intussusceptions (telescoping of the bowel into itself), parasites, and other structural abnormalities.

Metabolic diseases, such as kidney and liver diseases, uncontrolled diabetes  mellitus and hyperthyroidism may cause vomiting, although it is more common for these diseases to cause acute episodes of vomiting.

Some abdominal disorders may result in chronic vomiting. Examples include chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), kidney infections, tumors in other abdominal organs, adhesions of the abdominal organs, etc.

Motility disorders of the stomach and small intestines are an important cause of chronic vomiting. With these diseases food does not leave the stomach and intestines as it normally does and builds up in the stomach where it induces vomiting.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an inflammation of the walls of the gastrointestinal tract, and may be an immune disorder in some animals. Chronic vomiting with IBD may be accompanied by diarrhea, weight loss and a change in appetite.

Certain maldigestion and malabsorption problems, such as lymphangiectasia cause chronic vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Gastrointestinal ulcers associated with intestinal diseases and tumors, liver disease, and kidney disease may result in chronic vomiting, but such ulcers are uncommon.

Constipation is infrequent, incomplete, or difficult defecation with the passage of hard, dry feces. Vomiting may occur secondary to constipation.

Slow growing tumors of the gastrointestinal tract may produce intermittent vomiting that tends to get worse with time.

Obtaining a complete medical history, and performing a thorough physical examination are necessary in order to create an appropriate diagnostic plan for the vomiting patient.

A complete blood count (CBC) evaluates the presence of infection, inflammation, anemia, etc.

A biochemical profile evaluates kidney, liver, and pancreas function, as well as electrolyte, protein, andblood sugar levels.

A urinalysis helps evaluate the kidneys and hydration status of the patient.

Multiple fecal examinations are important to rule out gastrointestinal parasites as a cause of vomiting.

Abdominal radiographs (X-rays) evaluate the abdominal organs, and may detect the presence of fluid, a foreign body, tumor or structural abnormality.

Chest X-rays are an important part of the diagnostic work up if cancer is suspected, in order to look for metastasis (spread) to the lungs.

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