Black Cat Poop: Color, Consistency, and Other Characteristics

If your cat’s poop looks black, observe the poop to see if the color is uniform and if any red tint exists in any part of the stool. In addition to color, here are other characteristics you should pay attention to:

Consistency. One of the most important pieces of information is the consistency of the poop. The poop could be anywhere from very dry and hard to liquid with no shape whatsoever. 

Amount. Pay attention to the amount as well—a couple droplets of runny poop is different than a large pile. 

Frequency/Duration. Be sure to keep note of how often this type of stool has occurred, how frequent your cat poops, and for how long you have noticed this type of stool.

Contents. Look for unusual things inside the stool; for example, any parasites, mucus (gel-like material), or foreign bodies like string or pieces of toys. 

Noting your cat’s poop’s color, consistency, amount, frequency, duration, and any foreign material are all very specific clues that will help your veterinarian narrow down the search for a cause. For example, specific characteristics such as consistency and frequency can determine if the issue is likely in the small intestine or large intestine. Your veterinarian will recommend different treatments and tests depending on this information.

Why Is My Cat’s Poop Black?

There are multiple reasons a cat’s poop could be black, including:

Old poop. Poop outside of the body that has dried out for a couple days will appear black in color. However, when broken open, the inside may appear browner in coloration since only the exterior of the poop would have dried out. This depends on how old the poop is.

Change in diet. Cats eating a raw diet or experiencing a change in their diet can have color change in their poop due to digestion of different nutrients, byproducts created based on current diet, or artificial colors. The poop could be formed or liquid.

Constipation. Cats who are constipated and have stool inside of their guts for an extended period of time will have very dry hard stool that may look black simply because it is dry.

Bleeding. Bleeding in the small intestines, or upper part of the guts, causes black stool because the body digests the blood leaving byproducts of blood in the poop. To see black stool due to this (it’s called melena) is a result of a significant amount of blood and requires veterinary care right away. Many times, the poop is runny and unformed if bleeding is causing the black coloration. 

Examples of reasons for bleeding include:

• Ulcers in the stomach or intestines
• Inability to clot (e.g., exposure to rodenticide, a poison)
• Cancer in the gastrointestinal (GI) system
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Endoparasitism (e.g., hookworms)

Issues with bile excretion. In cats who have a blockage from the gallbladder to the intestines, bile—made of byproducts from blood—may be intermittently excreted into the intestines, creating an excessive amount of black color. Formed stool or runny stool can occur. A few different conditions could cause this, including:

• Pancreatic disease
• Stones in the gallbladder or tract leading out of the gallbladder
• Intestinal disease

What to Do if Your Cat’s Poop Is Black

If your cat has been experiencing any changes in behavior, decrease in activity, or decrease in appetite, all pet parents should be concerned. While the black stool may not be directly linked to the cause, your cat is not feeling well and should have a veterinary appointment right away.

If the stool is black and hard or dry, your cat likely does not need veterinary care immediately. Think back to whether your cat ate new food or treats, as that can affect the color. Keep your cat on their usual diet without any treats or diet changes. If the consistency is unformed or your cat has any behavior changes, call your veterinarian to discuss bland diets and find out if additional treatment is warranted.

If your cat does not consistently poop daily or inside the litter box, they are likely demonstrating to you that something is chronically wrong, and a veterinary appointment is warranted in the near future.

If your cat has liquid or runny diarrhea that is black, even if behavior changes are not occurring, you should call your veterinarian right away. Your cat will become dehydrated very quickly, and it is best to treat this type of diarrhea swiftly. If the stool is black and liquid due to melena, your cat will experience behavior changes and other symptoms shortly after the stool begins.

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Read on to understand what to expect for treatment after your cat is diagnosed with kidney disease.

Kidney Disease in Cats Treatment Plan: What to Expect

How a cat is treated for kidney disease depends on two important factors: is it acute or chronic? If it is chronic, what stage are they in?

Acute kidney disease is when signs come on suddenly. It can occur when a toxic substance is eaten, bacterial infections involving the kidneys, or when your cat already has underlying kidney disease and something else is wrong, like being dehydrated. Cats with acute kidney disease are usually hospitalized, staying in the hospital to get fluids through a catheter (intravenous or IV fluids), medications, and close monitoring. If your cat can be treated at home, you will likely need to give fluids under the skin (subcutaneous or SQ fluids) at least once daily, plus several other medications.

Chronic kidney disease is when the kidneys are slowly worsening and can occur over years before signs are noticed. Most times we cannot identify a cause – it could be your cat is prone to kidney disease for genetic reasons, but it also occurs with other medical issues such as urinary tract infections. Most cats are started on a special diet and supplements. Not all cats require fluids or medications, but if your cat is experiencing signs of illness, medications will help with improving quality of life by increasing appetite and decreasing vomiting.

If your cat has chronic kidney disease, your veterinarian will run a couple of blood and urine tests to determine what stage he is in:

• Stage 1: this is the earliest stage of kidney disease, often before cats have signs of illness. Unless your cat has high protein in the urine, your veterinarian is unlikely to recommend a special diet or supplements.
• Stage 2: This is the most common stage of kidney disease. If your cat has signs of illness, they are often mild. Your veterinarian is likely to recommend a special diet formulated for cats with kidney disease. Depending on electrolyte values and urine protein testing, your cat may need medication or supplements.
• Stage 3: Most cats are experiencing signs of illness at this stage. Your veterinarian will highly recommend a special diet, medications are likely, and SQ fluids are possible.
• Stage 4: This is the final and worst stage of kidney disease. Your cat is likely showing many signs of illness. Your veterinarian will recommend a special diet if your cat is willing to eat it, medications, and SQ fluids. He may be hospitalized initially to help decrease dehydration and get your cat feeling better before he goes home to continue treatments.

Kidney Disease in Cats Treatment Cost

Cats with kidney disease require routine testing to monitor their health. For chronic kidney disease, depending on stage and how well your cat is feeling, your veterinarian will recommend visits every 3-6 months. Bloodwork, urine, and blood pressure testing are frequently performed to start treatments as needed. This can cost anywhere between $200 and $500 per visit.

Ideally cats would be fed prescription canned food to increase the amount of water in their diet and regulate secondary issues associated with kidney disease. On average, this costs $125 per month. However, if your cat really loves dry food or the budget is tight, dry kidney diets will cost on average $35-$65 per month.

Medications vary widely and therapy plans are unique to each cat. Estimating cost is almost impossible, but pet parents can expect to spend anywhere from $15 to $150 per month depending on severity of disease.

Cat Kidney Disease Medications

Common medications used to manage signs of illness associated with kidney disease include:

• Aluminum hydroxide. This decreases phosphorus in cats. It comes in a powder or gel. Because the powder tastes bitter, it can be placed into gel capsules if needed.
• Calcitriol. This hormone regulates phosphorus, and low levels of calcitriol – frequent in cats with kidney disease – can lead to secondary hyperparathyroidism. It is often compounded into a liquid.
• Erythropoietin. Stimulates the formation of more red blood cells to combat anemia. This is an injectable medication given under the skin.
• Fluids such as Lactated Ringer’s Solution (LRS). This hydrates cats, flushing toxins out of the bloodstream that the kidneys can no longer process. This is given under the skin at home, or directly into the bloodstream (IV) in the hospital.
• Maropitant, commonly called Cerenia. This decreases nausea and inflammation in cats. It is a pill or an injection.
• Omeprazole. This decreases stomach acid in cats, which can accompany kidney disease. It is a pill.
• Potassium. Supplements a lack of potassium. This is a pill or powder to be mixed in food.
• Renal (kidney) supplements. These contain a combination of vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants, and holistic ingredients meant to improve the health of the kidneys. They come in powder, pill, and chew (treat) form.

Managing Kidney Disease Pain in Cats

Cats are not frequently in pain directly relating to kidney disease; however, when it does occur, pain from kidney stones, severe inflammation and infections can be severe. Most veterinarians will prescribe opioids like buprenorphine when this occurs. Gabapentin can help with forms of neuropathic pain and decreases general stress as well.

Many signs of illness that accompany kidney disease can lead to significant discomfort. Managing symptoms is the best way to decrease discomfort. Nausea or gastrointestinal pain can be treated with anti-nausea medications that are also anti-inflammatories like maropitant. Dehydration can be managed with SQ fluids.

Kidney Disease Cat Diet: What to Feed

Pet parents should feed diets made for cats with kidney disease whenever possible. These diets are specially formulated to ensure your cat has all the nutrients he may need and in an easy-to-digest way. Phosphorus, a mineral in the body, is decreased in kidney diets since it is often too high in cats with kidney disease. Protein is also decreased in kidney diets. A high protein diet is hard on the kidneys since they process protein, and can actually be a cause of kidney disease.

Homemade cat food can be useful for cats with kidney disease, but a veterinary nutritionist’s advice must be sought. When diets are not well balanced by a nutritionist, it can have serious consequences for your cat’s health above and beyond kidney disease.

Special treats are not needed for cats with kidney disease if pet parents are keeping treats to less than 10 percent of their total caloric intake. Some supplements that support kidney health are found in treat form and are a great choice for your cat.

Supplements for Cats with Kidney Disease

Many supplements support kidney health in cats. Potassium is needed when levels are too low in your cat. Phosphate binders may be needed if phosphorus is too high. Low levels of vitamin D are linked to kidney issues in humans and may be supplemented in cats. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to decrease inflammation, reduce blood pressure, and decrease the risk of blood clots. Many supplements such as milk thistle extract, N-acetylcysteine, and melatonin are not only antioxidants but have been shown to have a positive effect on the structure of the kidneys.

Some combination commercial supplements are sold for cats with kidney disease. They typically include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, amino acids, and natural holistic ingredients that directly support kidney health such as Astragalus root, Cordyceps spp., and Rehmannia glutinosa root. Before giving any kidney supplements to your cat, be sure to speak with your veterinarian. Many supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so a manufacturer trusted by veterinarians should be chosen.

Support your cat’s water intake by offering some water flavored with low sodium chicken broth or tuna juice. Cat water fountains can increase interest in drinking water. Canned food diets are ideal to increase water in the diet.

Kidney Disease in Cats Treatment: Tips and Advice

Once your cat starts therapy such as a prescription diet, you may not notice a difference if your cat wasn’t showing signs of illness before. However, most cats with signs of kidney disease see improvement almost right away with medications. Very ill cats may never be symptom-free, but many cats see significant improvement. Over time, a quality diet and supplements can maintain a healthy balance for your cat with minimal symptoms.

Always contact your veterinarian if signs of kidney disease do not decrease or new symptoms emerge. For example, if your cat was vomiting daily when diagnosed with kidney disease, speak with your veterinarian if after a week or two of therapy there has been no improvement. If your cat has started vomiting and wasn’t vomiting regularly before—contact your veterinarian to discuss options.

If you struggle to give medication to your cat, call your veterinarian. There are many possible solutions for getting medications into your cat. Compounding pharmacies can make medications into liquid, pills, paste, capsules, powder, or even tasty treats. Cats can be trained to (better) accept medication by using positive rewards like catnip, treats, or special toys.

The most important thing to remember: your goal is to keep your cat feeling good. It is more important that your cat eat a balanced diet than it is for your cat to eat a prescription kidney diet. Don’t focus on whether your cat’s blood kidney values have worsened as much as ensuring your cat eats, plays, and enjoys the things they always have. Be very communicative with your veterinary hospital about what your cat needs.

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But can cats get kennel cough? If your dog is sick with kennel cough, is your cat going to get sick too? Let’s take a look.

Can Cats Get Kennel Cough? 

No, cats cannot get kennel cough. The viruses involved in kennel cough are very specific to dogs in most cases, including canine distemper virus, canine parainfluenza, and canine adenovirus type 2. Veterinarians refer to kennel cough only in dogs.

However, one bacterium that is often involved in kennel cough—Bordetella bronchiseptica, or Bordetella for short—can infect cats. So even though cats don’t catch dog viruses, cats can get infected with Bordetella if a dog is sick with kennel cough.

What Is Bordetella in Cats?

Bordetella is a bacterium that specifically sticks to the inner lining of the respiratory tract using fimbriae, or tiny fingerlike projections that reach out and grab onto specific cells. Bordetella sticks to the throat and trachea (windpipe) all the way to the bronchi (airways in the lungs).

Bordetella is a relatively common bacterium and can be found in healthy cats. Approximately 11 percent of healthy cats carry and shed the bacterium. However, in cats sick with respiratory symptoms, around 45 percent of cats have Bordetella. 

Most cats do not show symptoms, and if they do, the cats will recover after mild to moderate symptoms. In young kittens, Bordetella can cause pneumonia, or infection and inflammation of the lower airways (such as bronchi). Pneumonia with Bordetella is much more serious as it can cause cats to struggle to breathe.

Bordetella is relatively common in household dogs and dogs in animal shelters. It can spread in grooming or doggy daycare facilities, whereas pet cats are rarely exposed to Bordetella. In dogs, a lot of coughing occurs but not so much in cats. 

What Causes Bordetella in Cats?

Bordetella is caused by exposure to the bacterium by directly touching respiratory fluid, such as nose discharge or mucus that comes out while coughing. Cats can also catch Bordetella by touching items that have bacteria on it, such as food bowls or cat toys.

There are multiple risk factors for Bordetella—healthy low-stress cats in a home are unlikely to contract this disease. Young cats are more at risk of developing pneumonia due to their immature immune systems. Other risk factors include overcrowding, stress, infection with other viruses, and exposure to cats or dogs with the disease.

Cats can readily spread Bordetella to each other, and dogs can give Bordetella to cats. Cats can give it to dogs, but this is exceedingly rare. It is important to note that cats (and dogs) might be able to give the disease to humans. However, this has not been proven and, if true, it would be very rare.

Bordetella in Cats: Symptoms

Bordetella causes symptoms similar to other pathogens (i.e. viruses and bacteria) that cause upper respiratory disease, such as feline herpesvirus-1. It is almost impossible to tell them apart, and most cats with these symptoms have more than one pathogen anyway. The unique symptom for Bordetella is the cough—a loud, high-pitched cough often described as honking. However, cats cough less often than dogs, so this may not be present. 

Other signs of Bordetella in cats include:

• Discharge from the nose
• Discharge from the eyes
• Nasal congestion (nose sounds stuffed up)
• Redness to the eyes
• Sneezing
• Retching (your kitty looks like he’s ready to vomit but instead small amount of thick yellow-green mucus comes out – different from vomiting as it does not require multiple movements from the belly)
• Fast breathing rate (if you count more than 40 breaths per minute)
• Trouble breathing (using the belly to breathe in a dramatic way)
• Decreased appetite
• Decreased activity

Diagnosing Bordetella in Cats

Veterinarians examine cats but may not test for the exact cause if a cat is showing disease in the upper airway, such as the nose and throat. No matter the cause, the treatment tends to be the same. Your veterinarian will need to listen to your cat’s chest very thoroughly and may recommend X-rays if they think the lungs could be involved. X-rays will look for signs of pneumonia.

If your veterinarian does recommend testing for Bordetella, this is done either with a wash into the respiratory system or with a blood test known as polymerase chain reaction (PCR). 

A wash is performed by anesthetizing your cat (giving medications to your cat to make him sleep) and putting sterile saline into the lungs, then immediately sucking the fluid out. 

PCR is a common blood test for many different pathogens; most laboratories have a specific PCR panel for all respiratory pathogens in cats and can detect the bacterium even in trace amounts. While PCR is easier to obtain and does not require anesthesia, it will provide a positive test result even if the only bacteria present are dead and not causing infection anymore.

Performing culture on samples that contain Bordetella is very useful to your veterinarian. Bordetella is notorious for being resistant to some common antibiotics, and culture will demonstrate what antibiotics will or won’t be effective against your cat’s exact Bordetella strain.

Bordetella in Cats: Treatment

Bacteria are treated with antibiotics. The most recommended antibiotic for Bordetella is doxycycline. However, antibiotics such as enrofloxacin are common and relatively effective as well. Bordetella is known for creating resistance to specific antibiotics, so a change in antibiotics may be needed if the first choice is not effective.

Some cats can heal from Bordetella without medical intervention at all. However, cats that are showing symptoms of Bordetella should be treated with antibiotics to ensure the disease does not progress into the lungs and cause difficulty breathing.

Other treatments depend on your cat’s unique symptoms. For nasal congestion or coughing, nebulizing is common. Alternatively, if a cat has a stuffy nose but is doing well otherwise, placing your cat into the bathroom and running hot water in the shower to create steam could help with the congestion. If appetite has decreased, pet parents should offer a variety of dry and canned cat foods, as well as cooked plain meat, canned tuna, and cat treats to stimulate appetite.

Cost of Treating Bordetella in Cats

If your cat experiences mild to moderate symptoms and no testing is performed, the cost of treatment and examination is likely around $150-$200. However, X-rays are often recommended and would increase costs to somewhere around $500-$800. If your cat is very ill or chronically ill and your veterinarian recommends more advanced testing such as a respiratory wash, the cost typically goes closer to $1,500-$2,000.

Preventing Bordetella in Cats

Your cat should avoid contact with cats and dogs of unknown health. There is a Bordetella vaccination, but it is only recommended in animal shelters or catteries in which Bordetella is proven to cause disease in multiple cats. The vaccine can cause mild disease itself and is not recommended for pet cats.

Related Conditions 

Any pathogen causing respiratory disease in cats, such as:

• Feline herpesvirus-1
• Feline calicivirus
• Mycoplasma spp. (a different bacterium)
• Chlamydophila felis (a different bacterium)

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Though most canines are more likely to salivate over a juicy, protein-packed steak than a tray of crudites, all dogs are omnivorous, meaning they can eat both meat and plants. And, in fact, a meat-only diet would end up doing more harm to your dog’s health than good. 

But does that mean you should be supplementing your pup’s daily diet with carrots? Let’s find out what the experts have to say about canines and carrots!

Can Dogs Eat Carrots?

Yes, dogs can absolutely eat carrots. Not only are they non-toxic, but they also hold many nutritional benefits our dogs can enjoy, too.

In fact, carrots are one of the top human foods nutritionists and veterinarians recommend sharing with your dog. They’re especially good as snacks for obese dogs because they provide plenty of crunch without as many calories as traditional biscuit treats. 

But what about different types of carrots or styles of preparation? Here are some more answers about carrots and dogs that get right to the root of this colorful root vegetable.  

Can Puppies Eat Carrots?

Yes! Keep in mind that since puppies are growing, they require more protein, fat, and certain nutrients than adult dogs. Because of this, pet parents should be careful not to feed too many carrots to their puppies – consider them a special treat, not a mainstay or the majority of their diet.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Carrots?

Yes! Raw carrots and cooked carrots are both very nutritious for dogs. And for dogs who like to chew, chomping on raw carrots can provide a satisfying crunch. Carrot skin contains additional nutrients that are good for your dog, so there’s no need to break out the peeler. You can let your pup chow down on carrots, peels included!

Can Dogs Have Baby Carrots?

Yes! Baby carrots are an easy way for pet parents to control portions while minimizing chopping and prep work. And even though baby carrots have had their skin peeled off, they are still very nutritious. Depending on your dog’s size, so baby carrots may still need to be chopped or sliced to prevent choking.   

Can Dogs Eat Peas and Carrots?

Yes! Peas and carrots are a classic pairing, so it’s great news that this nutrient-dense duo is safe for dogs, too. Together, peas and carrots provide a variety of nutrients, textures, and tastes dogs love. And to make things easier, many pet parents reach for a handful of frozen peas and carrots for a refreshing summertime dog treat. Frozen vegetables are a great alternative to fresh and just as nutritious.

Are Carrots Good for Dogs?

Carrots contain a host of nutritional benefits for dogs, as well as potential health benefits. The vibrant orange veggies are rich in beta-carotene, a pigment that your dog’s body converts into vitamin A to help promote strong bones, good eyesight, night vision, and a healthy coat.

Carrots also supply your dog with vitamins K and C, as well as essential minerals including potassium and calcium. Keeping the peel on the carrot provides additional vitamin C and niacin. But if you prefer the convenience of baby carrots, there’s no need to worry. Carrots still pack a nutritional wallop in terms of vitamins and minerals, even without the peel. 

Carrots are a great source of fiber, too. They provide dogs with both soluble and insoluble fiber, each of which plays a different role in your dog’s health. Soluble fiber helps lower glucose levels, reduce cholesterol, and slow digestion so your dog feels full longer. Insoluble fiber helps prevent constipation, remove toxins from the colon, and encourage regular, normal poop.

Are Carrots Bad for Dogs?

Carrots could be bad for your dog if you feed them too much. Though they’re packed with beneficial vitamins and nutrients, sweet-tasting carrots contain plenty of natural sugars, too. But just because carrots are naturally sweet doesn’t mean your dog should eat them with abandon. Like any other treat, the calories can add up quickly.

Carrots are also high in oxalates, a natural compound found in many plants. If your dog has bladder stones made of oxalates (or is prone to forming them), feeding carrots would not be a good choice.

Finally, carrots can present a choking hazard. So it’s always best to offer your dog smaller, bite-sized chunks of carrot instead of larger pieces they could swallow whole or get lodged in their windpipe.  

Dogs and Carrots: Feeding Tips

While carrots have many health benefits, it’s all too easy to go overboard with this natural snack. So be sure to factor in the calories they add to your dog’s diet, just like you would for any commercial dog treat. 

So how many carrots can a dog eat? Only 10 percent of your dog’s daily calories should come from treats. On average, a baby carrot contains about 4 calories. So for every 10 pounds of doggy weight, your dog can eat 5 baby carrots each day. Of course, if you are offering your pup any other treats, you would need to reduce that amount accordingly. 

When it comes to preparing carrots for dogs to enjoy, pet parents have plenty of pup-safe options. 

Raw carrots are easy to prep (especially if you leave the skin on) and provide lots of crunch. But in terms of nutritional benefit, cooked carrots are equivalent to raw. Cooking carrots helps break down the veggie’s tough cell walls so a dog’s body can more easily absorb the nutrients locked within.

Just remember that excessive boiling could cause some vitamins and minerals to leech out of the carrots and into the water, so steaming is best. 

And if you’re tempted to share some carrots off your own plate with your pup, keep in mind that carrots can be harmful to dogs if they are part of “people food.”

Carrots are often cooked with additives like oil and salt, which can be detrimental to dogs when consumed in excess. Or, they may be part of a recipe that includes seasonings like garlic or onion, which are toxic to dogs.

Carrot-based baked goods such as carrot cake should also be avoided due to high levels of sugar and fat, which could contribute to dog obesity and serious health issues like diabetes. In addition, some recipes contain added raisins which are highly toxic to dogs.
To ensure your dog gets the biggest nutritional boost out of carrots, remember to keep your prep simple and offer them to your pup in moderation. That’s the key to unlocking the benefits of carrots for dogs.

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So, if grooming is such a normal behavior for cats, why do some cats groom too much? And how do you know if your cat is grooming too much? Read on for everything you need to know about cat overgrooming, including why it happens, what signs to look for, and how to handle it.

Excessive Grooming in Cats: How Much Is Too Much?

Grooming is essential for cats to maintain skin health, remove shedding fur, get rid of parasites like fleas, and cool off. Cats will groom by licking, chewing, and nibbling on themselves. They use their paws and tongues, contorting their bodies into many different poses to reach every square inch. Cats may focus on one area of the body or cover the entire body head to toe. When grooming each other, cats tend to focus on the head and neck – the hardest places to reach themselves.

Cats groom approximately 15 percent of each day, which equates to an average of 4 minutes every hour. Exactly when or how frequently they choose to groom themselves varies from cat to cat, and when they become dirty, they groom for longer.

Most cats groom after resting and eating. Cats will also groom immediately after stressful situations – when they get scared, they’ll run off, suddenly stop, and furiously but briefly lick themselves. This could be a way of trying to calm down.

Overgrooming is essentially when cats groom so much that they remove healthy fur. This results in alopecia, or abnormal fur loss. The fur loss may cause your cat to be completely bald, develop bald patches, or have an unusually thin fur coat through which you can see skin. Because a lot of the excessive grooming can occur in secret, most cat parents don’t realize they have an overgrooming cat until fur is missing.

Cat Overgrooming: Why It Happens

Around 75 percent of cats with overgrooming issues have underlying medical conditions. Only 10 percent of cats overgroom strictly due to behavior, while the rest of the population (around 15 percent) have both medical and behavioral concerns [1]. All in all, if your cat is overgrooming, there’s most likely a medical cause.

There are three general causes of cat overgrooming:

• Painful conditions. Any source of pain or discomfort could lead to cat overgrooming. Conditions such as bladder inflammation (cystitis), back pain, or full anal sacs have led to overgrooming. Cats may overgroom in specific areas depending on where the discomfort is coming from.

• Pruritus (itchiness). Parasites like fleas, skin infections with bacteria or a fungus, or an allergy to something results in overgrooming. Allergies or hypersensitivity can include fleas, food, or environmental, such as pollen or dust.

• Psychogenic (behavior-related and not medical) issues. Stress can lead to overgrooming, and it can be caused by an ongoing issue like fights between cats or be triggered by something specific, such as the addition or loss of a person (or animal) in the home. With some medical conditions (i.e. hyperthyroidism), cats can be hyperactive, which also leads to overgrooming. Siamese cats and other Asian breeds, such as Himalayan cats, are more likely to overgroom for psychogenic reasons.

Signs of Overgrooming in Cats

Cats who are overgrooming for medical reasons do not have a typical pattern but may focus on a painful area. Cats who are overgrooming for psychogenic reasons typically overgroom their sides, often symmetrically.

Signs of overgrooming are different for each cat but can include:

• Complete fur loss or baldness anywhere on the body
• Thinning fur coat
• Redness or crusts on the skin
• Tufts of fur found near your cat’s resting areas
• Less or more activity
• Decreased or increased appetite

Cat Overgrooming Treatment

Pet parents must seek veterinary help to identify and manage the underlying cause of cat overgrooming. Even if your cat is not damaging his skin to the point of needing immediate medical care, it shows that your cat is uncomfortable and should be treated. 

Veterinarians will do a thorough exam and recommend testing of both the skin and your cat’s overall health. Looking at fur or a skin scrape sample under the microscope can identify mites, lice, or ringworm. Doing blood and urine testing will screen for underlying medical causes for pain or discomfort.

If your cat has an allergy, testing for what they’re allergic to can be challenging to interpret. Most cats with allergies go through a food trial, meaning they eat a prescription diet that only has one animal source as the protein for at least two months with no treats, no people food, and no other cat foods. Antihistamines like cetirizine may be an option, and monthly flea preventives are crucial to avoiding flea bites.

For the 10 percent of cats with behavioral (stress) concerns that lead to overgrooming, management typically involves increased enrichment, attempting to limit or get rid of any stressors, and possibly medication such as fluoxetine. Without changes in the environment, medical care will not be effective in these cases.

How to Stop a Cat From Overgrooming

If your cat is overgrooming, in most cases, you should not actively attempt to stop them. Shouting at your cat to stop or adding collars that prevent normal grooming will not be effective long-term. If the reason for overgrooming is stress, either one of these things would make your cat’s stress increase. And if the reason is medical, their desire to groom will not cease until it is treated.

Veterinary guidance on how to best treat underlying issues should eventually lead to improvement. Methods such as Elizabethan collars should be used short-term if your cat is damaging their skin and creating infection or other issues. Medical treatment of overgrooming often takes place over months, and improvement is gradual.

Even if you and your veterinarian suspect medical causes for the overgrooming, consider increasing enrichment for your cat in case stress is involved. Offer food puzzles or activities such as snuffle-mats or balls that dispense food when rolled. Actively play with a variety of wand toys with your cat each day. Offer fresh catnip weekly. Ensure your cat has a variety of toys, and cycle through them a couple at a time so a toy is not out in the house for more than a week at a time (you can bring them back out during a different week). Cat videos, music for cats, and pheromone diffusers or sprays are all great enrichment options as well.

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What Is Haws Syndrome?

Haws syndrome is specific to cats – dogs do not get this. It is a rare condition that tends to affect cats less than 2 years old. It is when the third eyelids stick up over part of a cat’s eyes. 

This condition is not painful and does not affect the eye, although your cat’s vision will be slightly decreased because the eyelid physically covers part of the eye.

A lack of response in sympathetic nerves – the nervous system responsible for the “fight or flight” response – allows the eyelids to stay up when they should go down. It is unknown why this occurs.

What Causes Haws Syndrome in Cats?

Haws syndrome has no known cause. The syndrome itself is not contagious. No breed appears to be more heavily affected over others.

However, many cases are associated with a recent bout of diarrhea, most of which resolve in a matter of a few days. One study found a specific gastrointestinal (i.e. stomach and/or intestines) virus called torovirus in many cats with Haws syndrome, but other studies have not had this same result. A case was reported of a cat with Giardia infection and Haws syndrome. Still, many other cats have not had diarrhea.

Haws Syndrome Cat Symptoms

Haws syndrome has only one symptom – the third eyelids are constantly raised in both eyes. 

Haws syndrome does not cause death. The eyes themselves are otherwise normal – normal vision, no inflammation or infection, and no swelling around the eyes that could cause the third eyelids to raise. 

While diarrhea is sometimes noted around the time that Haws syndrome occurs, diarrhea is not a symptom of Haws syndrome.

Diagnosing Cats with Haws Syndrome

Diagnosis is based on a physical examination by a veterinarian. Your veterinarian will need to perform a thorough ophthalmic (eye) examination to look for a potential cause of the raised eyelids. Additionally, your veterinarian may focus on the nervous system. 

Fecal testing may be performed to look for a cause of any diarrhea that may have occurred around the time of diagnosis.

An eye drop that stimulates the sympathetic nerves such as phenylephrine can be applied to the eyes once to confirm diagnosis. Within 20 minutes of applying this medication, the third eyelids will return to normal position. If this medication is not used, Haws syndrome would be diagnosed based on a physical examination, ruling out any other diseases that could have caused the raised third eyelids.

How to Treat Haws Syndrome in Cats

There is no treatment for Haws syndrome, but it often goes away on its own. Studies about Haws syndrome in cats are few and far between. In one study, 62 percent of cats’ raised eyelids resolved within 4 weeks. In another study, the average time till the syndrome resolved was 47 days.

Eye medication such as phenylephrine can be used to replace the eyelids in their original positions, but because cats do not have any discomfort or significant decrease of vision with this condition, this kind of medication would often be unnecessary.

How to Prevent Haws Syndrome in Cats

There is no way to prevent Haws syndrome. Until the syndrome is better understood, it is unlikely prevention will be possible. 

Although diarrhea is not necessarily a cause of Haws syndrome, preventing diarrhea may decrease the chance of Haws in the future. One way to do this is  to prevent your kitty from getting into the trash or eating food items other than cat food. For cats younger than 2 years old, providing your cat with regular deworming will help decrease parasites and thus lower the chances of diarrhea.

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According to one survey, 83 percent of people with cats reported that their pets scratched “inappropriate items” around their homes, with the most frequent targets being chairs, furniture, and carpeting. To combat this destructive behavior, some cat parents turn to cat nail caps as a possible solution. But are these popular protectors a good idea for cats? We talked to some experts to get their opinion on nail caps for cats.

What are Cat Nail Caps? 

Scratching is a natural instinct for cats. Cats scratch for a variety of reasons, whether that’s to express emotions, mark objects with their scent, or perform routine maintenance on their nails. But nobody wants their furniture ruined by their pet. Thus, cat parents often go to great lengths to curb scratching if it becomes destructive. Some pet parents use cat nail caps to prevent damage from cat claws.

Cat nail caps are tiny protective plastic or acrylic covers that fit over a cat’s nails. They’re designed to prevent the damage cats can do to people and objects with their razor-sharp claws. They’re considered by many to be a more humane alternative to declawing.

Typically, nail caps are secured to cat claws with built-in adhesive or special glue that’s included in the packaging. Most are designed to last about 4-6 weeks and then fall off naturally as the cat’s nails grow. Many come in a variety of bright colors to add a pop of pizzazz to kitty claws.

Are Nail Caps Safe for Cats?

According to the experts we spoke with, cat claw caps have a variety of benefits, as well as some potential downsides. Some veterinarians recommend them, while others advise cat parents to steer clear.

So what’s the verdict? Like most judgment calls, cat parents will need to take their pet’s preferences and nature into consideration when deciding if cat nail caps are a good fit for their feline. It’s also a  good idea to consult with a veterinarian who knows your cat well. 

To prepare you for that conversation, we rounded up answers to the questions pet parents most commonly ask about cat nail caps, along with some expert insights from veterinarians about nail capping cats. 

Cat Nail Caps Pros and Cons

We consulted several veterinarians to help pet parents understand the controversy surrounding cat nail caps. Some experts consider them a viable solution for shielding sharp cat claws, while others warn that using them can be risky. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of cat claw covers.

The Pros of Cat Nail Caps

Cat claw caps are effective. When it comes to protection, cat nail caps are an easy and effective way to prevent the damage sharp cat nails can do to your home, as well as injuries to members of your household.

This can be especially helpful for homes with young children or elderly cat owners who have more fragile skin, says head veterinarian Dr. Patrik Holmboe, DVM, of Cooper Pet Care. 

Cat nail caps do not impede nail use or growth. Contrary to popular belief, “nail caps don’t prevent the normal retraction movement of the nail,” Holmboe says. He also notes that with claw caps for cats, nail growth is not affected in any way. “In fact, this is why the caps only last 4-6 weeks, as it is the nail growth which usually makes them fall off,” he adds.

Cat nail covers are affordable. Especially when compared to the cost of replacing expensive home furnishings or carpets, cat nail caps are a low-cost way to prevent damage or injuries within your home.   

“For ten to twenty dollars, you can often get hundreds, which will last many rounds of application,” says Holmboe. “As long as a cat tolerates the application of them, you can continually replace them,” he says.

Using cat nail caps is considered a more compassionate alternative to declawing. “Declawing is never recommended as a solution,” says leading pet trend expert Charlotte Reed, executive producer and host of The Pet Buzz syndicated radio talk show. “It’s not recommended by most vets and it has even been banned in some places because it is considered an inhumane procedure,” she adds.

 The Humane Society of the United States also opposes declawing and suggests a range of alternative solutions to prevent cats from aggressive scratching, including the use of cat nail caps to blunt sharp claws. However, the organization urges pet parents not to rely solely on cat nail caps to solve the problem. 

Though cat nail covers do allow cats to exercise their natural urge to scratch without inflicting damage on furniture or carpets, the Humane Society recommends pet parents also provide a more acceptable surface for a cat to scratch on, like a scratching post.

Cat nail caps can be a fun feline fashion accessory. Many companies offer acrylic cat nail caps in a variety of fun colors and patterns. If you’re looking to give your favorite feline a  paw-i-cure, cat nail caps offer a fun way to do it safely, according to Dr. Krysia Chipperfield, DVM, of All About Cats Veterinary Clinic. 

The Cons of Kitty Nail Caps

There are some potential downsides to cat nail caps that pet parents may want to consider. Here’s a roundup of those most commonly mentioned by our veterinary experts.

They’re temporary and require regular reapplication. Holmboe reminds cat owners that cat nail covers do require regular monitoring and replacement, generally every 4-6 weeks. Depending on the temperament of your cat, this could prove time-consuming and difficult. It may be more effort than reward for some pet parents, says Chipperfield. 

Cat nail caps could present a choking hazard. “They often come off very easily and some cats nibble at them incessantly,” says Chipperfield. That can make them a danger to your cat and others in your home, such as young children or other pets. 

Cat nail caps are not recommended for outdoor cats. “If a cat goes outside, cat nail caps can limit their climbing ability,” says Holmboe. They can also prevent cats from defending themselves in the case of a fight. That makes them a poor choice for outdoor cats, as well as cats prone to escape attempts. 

Cat nail caps could limit some benefits cats get from scratching. “Scratching is an instinctive behavior for cats, and they scratch to get rid of the dead nail sheaths on their nails,” says cat expert and behaviorist, Samantha Bell. Nail caps, she warns, can prevent some cats from feeling like they’re truly scratching. “And the dead nail sheaths build up inside the caps, putting pressure on their toes and making them feel uncomfortable,” she adds.

Some cats could find nail caps annoying…or even harmful. As most pet parents know, cats can be very opinionated, and some may not appreciate nail caps, while others might tear off when you attempt to apply the caps to their claws.  

“If a cat really dislikes the caps, that could cause stress and anxiety,” warns Chipperfield. Some cats could self-inflict injuries trying to get them off, which is why Chipperfield doesn’t recommend them to her clients. 

Reed says that, in some cases, cat caps could inhibit a cat’s gait or affect their ability to climb, which could contribute to inappropriate elimination, depression, and aggression in cats. 

Safety Tips When Using Cat Nail Caps

If you choose to use caps for cat claws, there are a few safety tips to keep in mind: 

Consider the Materials

When shopping for cat nail caps, “make sure that the cap material and the adhesive are nontoxic,” says Chipperfield. That way, you don’t have to worry about your kitty nibbling or licking a hazardous substance off their capped claws.

Size Appropriately

When purchasing cat caps for nails, make sure you’re buying the correct size, based on your cat’s weight. “If you choose the wrong size or apply them incorrectly, then they can come off easily,” Holmboe says.

Consult Your Veterinarian

“Before applying nail caps, you should trim your cat’s nails,” says Reed. If you don’t feel comfortable doing that yourself, you can take your kitty to a groomer or your veterinarian.

While you’re there, you may also want to ask your professional if they apply or remove cat nail caps. “Many veterinary offices and groomers can do it for you,” says Dr. Megan Conrad, DVM, a veterinarian at Hello Ralphie. 

Check the Instructions

Before you attempt to apply cat nail caps, always read the manufacturer’s directions to make sure you do it properly. Conrad also offers this tip: “With any brand, try the caps on one at a time — without glue first — to check the fit.” 

Keep an Eye on Your Cat

Kitty claw caps normally come off naturally after about 4 to 6 weeks, as the cat’s outer nail sheds. “Cat parents need to keep an eye on their cat’s paws to ensure this is happening and the claw and cap don’t start to grow into the paw pad,” Conrad adds.

If that happens, follow the manufacturer’s directions for removing the nail cap. And if you’re having any trouble, consult your veterinarian.

Wearing nail caps can be stressful for some cats, “especially the first time,” says Chipperfield. So always keep an eye on your cat and watch for signs of anxiety or discomfort.

Cat Nail Cap Alternatives

Though scratching is instinctive for cats, there’s still hope for your furniture and rugs, even if you decide cat nail caps aren’t the best choice for your cat.

Keep Claws Trimmed

Reed recommends trimming cat nails on a regular basis as an alternative for pet parents who decide against nail caps. You can take your cat to the groomer to have this done professionally. Or you can do this at home if you (and your cat) are comfortable with that. “Getting the sharp tips off of the claws helps reduce damage to furniture, skin, and other items,” she says. 

Offer Cat a Scratching Post

Other cat claw cover alternatives include using scratching posts. “You can even provide several areas for scratching with different textures and surface types, depending on what your cat prefers,” says Reed. She suggests noticing what types of items and materials your cat tends to scratch and using that as a guide to help you to determine appropriate solutions. “Try directing your cat to the scratching post if they scratch in other areas so they know this is an appropriate place to do so,” she says. 

You can position scratching posts near furniture that cats typically scratch to encourage them to use that instead. Once the cat gets used to using the scratcher, slowly move it away closer to the area where you’d like to eventually keep it. Chipperfield recommends positively rewarding your cat whenever they use their scratching post. Try petting them, using appraising words, and giving them their favorite cat treat.

Limit Access to Furniture

You can make furniture less appealing to cats by covering it with a blanket or sheet to limit access. Pet stores sell special pet furniture guards and shields that you can also place around your furniture. A spray deterrent is another option. Many companies make cat repellent sprays containing scents that cats dislike. Spritzing this on items you want a cat to avoid scratching can help to deter them.

Cat nail caps have a variety of benefits and disadvantages for cats. If you choose to use them, make sure you follow the safety tips above to ensure your cat is safe and happy when wearing them. And most importantly, if your cat shows any signs of agitation while wearing cat claw caps, remove them and try one of the many expert-backed alternatives to cat nail caps.

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But cat ear infections can cause discomfort and pain, and it may not be obvious from the outside that your cat is suffering. Read this article to understand the inside of cat ears more thoroughly, and the typical symptoms of an ear infection.

Understanding Cat Ear Anatomy

Your cat’s ear is made of multiple parts. These include the:

• Pinnae
• Ear canal
• Tympanum (ear drum)
• Middle ear
• Tympanic bulla
• Internal ear
• Chochlea
• Vestibular system

The pinnae is the part of a cat’s ear that you can see – the cute triangles that stick out from your cat’s head. The ear canal itself is L-shaped. There is a vertical canal (the tall part of the “L”) and the horizontal canal (the flat part of the “L”). The vertical canal can be seen by looking into the opening at the base of your cat’s pinna. The horizontal canal cannot be seen without the use of an otoscope.

At the bottom of this canal is the tympanum, or ear drum. Behind it is the middle ear, a small open cavity that is typically filled with air. The bone around the middle ear is called the tympanic bulla and is the round smooth protuberance just behind and below your cat’s pinna. Next to this is the internal ear, which contains the organ for hearing (cochlea) and the system of fluid-filled canals responsible for balance (vestibular system).

Cat ear infections most commonly affect the vertical and horizontal canal, and this is known as an external ear infection or otitis externa. Infections can occur in the middle ear as well and are known as otitis media. Internal ear infections are very difficult to diagnose – essentially, veterinarians can only diagnose based on the symptoms your cat has.

Causes of Cat Ear Infections

Approximately half of all external ear infections are due to ear mites, specifically Otodectes cynotis. The next most common cause is hypersensitivity such as an allergy to food, the environment, or something your cat comes into contact with like certain medications.

Other possible causes include:

• Parasites other than ear mites such as Demodex mites
• Foreign bodies, i.e. things that shouldn’t be in the ear such as grass
• Skin disorders such as seborrhea (white scaly skin disease)
• Immune-mediated disorders such as vasculitis
• Glandular disorders such as ceruminous cystomatosis
• Proliferative necrotizing otitis of cats (rare)

Symptoms of Ear Infections in Cats

With mild ear infections, pet parents may never notice symptoms in their cats – even if it itches, cats are very discrete in their scratching and grooming habits. Most cats, however, will develop symptoms. 

Symptoms of ear infections in cats include:

• Redness in the canals
• Discharge in the canals
• Frequent head shaking
• Frequent scratching of the ears
• Fur loss and abrasions on or around the base of the ears (due to scratching)
• Swelling, crust, or redness of the pinna

If your cat also has inflammation of the inner ear, you may notice your cat stumbling and walking drunkenly, which is called ataxia. In middle ear infections, the nerve that controls one side of the face may be affected, preventing your cat from blinking on one side or making the face look like it has two different sides.

Diagnosing Cat Ear Infections

Veterinarians diagnose external ear infections by looking inside the ears for inflammation. Cytology is a common test, which involves taking a small sampling of the debris in an ear to smear on a slide, stain it, and look under the microscope. The type of medication used to treat secondary infections in the ears will depend on what infectious agents veterinarians see. Parasites, yeast, and bacteria are diagnosed this way.

To diagnose middle ear infections, veterinarians will attempt to look deep inside your cat’s ear canal with an otoscope. Looking at the eardrum can help diagnose middle ear infections but it isn’t always apparent. If the ear is very inflamed or painful, they may not be able to see the eardrum without sedation. X-rays of the bullae, or bones of the middle ear, can help with diagnosis. 

To diagnose inner ear infections, veterinarians assume it is present if your cat has ataxia and also a middle ear infection.

Treating Cat Ear Infections

Cat ear infections are treated first and foremost by cleaning out the ears. If waxy debris is trapped inside, medication cannot reach the entire ear. In severe cases, sedation may be necessary to thoroughly clean the ears. 

Next, an ear medication is chosen that targets infection and inflammation. These can be drops or ointment. Some ear medications are thick gels or creams that fill the ears and remain for a week or more.

Treating the secondary infections, or infections of bacteria and yeast that did not cause the original inflammation in the ear, is only half the battle. The most common reason for secondary infections is because ear mites are present. If parasites are found, a topical treatment is often applied to the skin on the back of the head that fights fleas as well as a variety of parasites for an entire month. If an allergy is causing ear infections, your veterinarian may prescribe a prescription diet for food allergies or medication such as antihistamines to combat environmental allergies.

Antibiotics by mouth (oral) or injection are not very useful in ear infections, as medication given these ways does not get into the ear very well. However, in cases of middle ear and inner ear infections, antibiotics are frequently used due to the severity. Steroids orally or by injection may be given if swelling or inflammation is intense.

Home Remedies for Cat Ear Infections

There are no home remedies that will eliminate infections such as bacteria, yeast, or parasites. 

Mixing a solution that is 1/4 to 1/2 white vinegar with water could be used to clean the ears if your cat has a history of yeast infections. However, vinegar and water do not dry easily, and moist environments can lead to worsening of infections. Also, it does not combat infections as well as commercial ear cleansers. 

Using commercial cat ear cleansers that have antibacterial, antifungal, and drying properties once or twice per week will decrease infection and prevent it in the future.

Many cats – around 40 percent – develop ear infections due to hypersensitivities, which is commonly linked to a food allergy. For this reason, focusing on a novel protein diet may help prevent ear infections. Novel protein diets are complete and balanced diets that contain a single type of meat that your cat has never had before. A home-cooked diet is incredibly dangerous for cats if not prescribed by a veterinary nutritionist, as finding the right balance of amino acids and minerals is critical and requires specific supplements.

How to Prevent Cat Ear Infections

For cats who live with many other cats or go outside – even if just on your porch – monthly flea topical medication that also prevents ear mites is best. If your cat develops a couple ear infections and parasites are not involved, preventing the allergy with a novel protein diet, avoiding contact with specific medications, and giving antihistamines or other therapies for reducing environmental allergies will help prevent ear infections.

Regular weekly cleanings of your cat’s ears with an ear cleanser that is antibacterial, antifungal, and has drying properties will prevent future ear infections. Squirt the solution into the ear canal until you see the canal is full, massage the base of your cat’s ear several times, then allow your cat to shake it out. You can gently wipe around the pinnae of your cat’s ear with cotton gauze to get rid of debris. 

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But what about our furry feline friends? Can cats get pneumonia? We’ll answer that question and many more throughout this article, so read on for everything you need to know about pneumonia in cats. 

What Is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia refers to inflammation in the lungs. The lungs have many tubes – from large (like the trachea or windpipe) to very small (like bronchioles) – that end in small sacs of air called alveolar sacs. 

In pneumonia, the lungs end up accumulating fluid inside these small alveolar sacs, preventing them from filling with air to supply oxygen to the body. Humans and any animal with lungs can develop pneumonia, but the causes vary between species.

Can Cats Get Pneumonia?

Yes, cats (and dogs) can get pneumonia. It is not a common diagnosis among our feline friends, but it is not very rare either.

Cats often demonstrate subtle signs of pneumonia, which can make it hard to detect. So how do you know if your cat has pneumonia? First, it’s important to understand the different types of pneumonia that can affect cats.

Types of Pneumonia in Cats

There are three main types of pneumonia in cats:

Aspiration pneumonia. Fluid or particulates being breathed in instead of swallowed may result in aspiration pneumonia in cats.

Infectious pneumonia. Cats can develop infectious pneumonia from many different kinds of pathogens (small organisms that cause infection), including bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and protozoa.

Inhalation pneumonia. This type of pneumonia in cats occurs when foreign material (such as smoke) is breathed into the airways

Causes of Pneumonia in Cats

Aspiration Pneumonia

Approximately half of cats with pneumonia have aspiration pneumonia, which occurs when your cat accidentally breathes in fluid or particulates such as vomitus, food, medication, or stomach acid. 

The most common reasons this happens include:

• Sedation or anesthesia (when your cat is made unconscious with medications at the veterinarian)
• Disease in the esophagus (the tube leading from the mouth to the stomach)
• Neurologic issues
• Force feeding (i.e. giving food or medication your cat did not choose to take)

Most animals that are diagnosed with aspiration pneumonia had recent gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting.

Infectious Pneumonia

Infectious pneumonia usually occurs because of immunosuppression, meaning there is some reason your cat’s immune system isn’t as strong as it should be. This could be due to age (young kittens), feline leukemia and/or feline immunodeficiency virus, stress (i.e. in an animal shelter or after a surgery), certain medications, or other concurrent illness.

Infectious pneumonia can be caused by a variety of things, including:

• Viruses such as feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus-1, and feline infectious peritonitis
• Bacteria such as Bordetella bronchiseptica, Mycoplasma spp., and Streptococcus spp.
• Fungi such as Blastomyces dermatitidis, Coccidioides immitis, and Cryptococcus spp.
• Protozoa such as Toxoplasma gondii
• Parasites such as lungworms (i.e. Aelurostrongylus abstrusus) or roundworms migrating through the lungs such as Toxocara cati

Viruses and bacteria are the most common pathogens causing pneumonia and typically work together. However, in most cases, a virus causes your cat to become ill first, allowing bacteria that are normally found in their airways to proliferate and create a bacterial infection as well. In very young kittens, bacteria can be the primary cause of pneumonia. 

Fungal pneumonia in cats is rare and accounts for approximately 15 percent of cases, while protozoal pneumonia is very rare and accounts for approximately 5 percent. Parasites like roundworms are very common, but it is uncommon for them to cause significant pneumonia.

Inhalation Pneumonia

Inhalation pneumonia is caused by either smoke or a chemical that should not be breathed in. For example, cats that are in house fires inhale a lot of smoke, which often causes pneumonia.

Symptoms of Pneumonia in Cats 

Pneumonia is harder to detect in cats, as 20 percent don’t have changes in breathing when they have pneumonia, and 40 percent do not show signs of overall illness like change in appetite. Still, pneumonia symptoms in cats may be present and can include:

• Coughing or wheezing
• Nasal discharge
• Decreased activity
• Decreased appetite
• Changes in breathing (increase in effort as seen by movement of the belly, inability to rest or be comfortable, fast breathing, or open-mouth breathing)
• Weakness
• Fever 

Diagnosing Pneumonia in Cats

In order to determine a diagnosis, your veterinarian will start by examining your cat. In milder forms of pneumonia, the lungs sound normal on examination, so X-rays are crucial. X-rays show inflammation in the lungs and certain patterns that can hint at the cause, but they alone cannot fully determine what caused the pneumonia. That’s why history is very important in helping to determine what type of pneumonia your cat has (for example, if they had been vomiting or were in a house fire).

Viruses are difficult to detect with testing but may be found by swabbing the back of your cat’s throat. To determine what type of bacteria is involved in your cat’s pneumonia, a test using a fluid sample from the lungs is often recommended (i.e. bronchoalveolar lavage). Fungi and protozoa are typically diagnosed with blood tests that detect the presence of the pathogen in the body. Parasites are diagnosed with fecal (poop) testing. 

Treating Cat Pneumonia 

Most cases of pneumonia are treated with antibiotics and supportive care. While bacteria may not be the primary cause of pneumonia when viruses are present, they frequently worsen the pneumonia, so antibiotics are crucial. Supportive care such as fluid therapy to hydrate your cat helps keep them healthy while they recover.

If your cat is very ill and having trouble breathing, hospitalization may be necessary. When cats are struggling to breathe, they cannot eat, drink, or take medicine by mouth. Veterinary hospitals can give your cat oxygen therapy to help them breathe, as well as fluids and medication through an intravenous (IV) catheter.  

Nebulization is a very important way of treating your cat’s pneumonia at home. This involves putting saline and medication into a small machine that blows concentrated air through the solution, filling a small space for your cat to breathe in the medicated air. Putting your cat in a carrier with moistened towels covering the openings while the nebulizer is running is a great way to trap the medicated air in the carrier.

Fungal, protozoal, and parasitic pneumonia require specific medication depending on the exact pathogen causing it. Fungal and protozoal pneumonia are difficult to treat, as medication must be given for several months before success is achieved.

Prognosis for Cats with Pneumonia

Cats with mild or moderate pneumonia that respond to antibiotics have a good prognosis. Cats that are very ill and struggling to breathe have a worse prognosis, although around 90 percent of these cats survive with hospitalization. 

Fungal and protozoal pneumonia can be difficult to treat, and if your cat is very ill already due to these pathogens, waiting weeks before seeing improvement may not be possible.

How to Prevent Pneumonia in Cats

If your cat develops gastrointestinal symptoms (such as vomiting) that occur more than once, they should be seen by a veterinarian right away. If your cat is being force-fed or takes large volumes of liquid medication, seek advice from your veterinarian to avoid accidentally forcing your cat to aspirate food or medication instead of swallowing it.

Preventing your cat from eating small prey like mice is ideal. Keep your cat away from cats of unknown health status, especially other cats’ feces or litter boxes. This will help avoid protozoa and parasites. 

If you work with any chemicals that are dangerous when inhaled, do not allow your cat to be anywhere near them.

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Even more troubling is when your cat doesn’t even know that they’ve urinated. This is called urinary incontinence in cats. If your cat is urinating outside of the litter box, how will your veterinarian determine if your cat is incontinent? How does it differ from cats who know they are urinating? Read on for an overview, including symptoms, causes, and treatments.

What Is Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence is when urine leaks from the bladder, and a cat is unaware that it has happened. Incontinence in cats is rare. Only 4 percent of cats with urinary issues are incontinent, but it can occur at any age.

Urine leakage while your cat is sleeping or resting is common. If your cat is excited or extra stimulated from something like active play, leakage may occur then, too. Cats with urinary problems that are not incontinent choose where they urinate, including outside of the litter box. When this occurs, you may catch your cat squatting in the usual position for urination or standing with their tail straight up, spraying urine directly behind them. 

Incontinence Symptoms in Cats

Determining if your cat is incontinent versus choosing to urinate outside the litter box can be difficult. Incontinent cats have variable symptoms. They may urinate a small or large amount, dribble (i.e. drip) or not dribble urine, and be incontinent sometimes while continent other times. If you feel like your cat is leaking urine, is always wet around the butt and genitalia, or has urine scalding (skin irritation from urine in that area), they are more likely to be incontinent. Also, incontinent cats tend to urinate smaller amounts than the average cat.

Possible symptoms of incontinence in cats  include:

• Fecal incontinence (i.e. cannot control pooping)
• Stumbling or walking drunk
• Weakness when trying to stand or move around
• Increased drinking
• Tail cannot move and hangs limply down
• Redness and moisture to skin around butt and genital area

Urinary signs include:

• Straining to urinate
• Dribbling urine
• Urinating small amounts
• Bloody (red-tinged) urine
• Vocalizing in the litter box
• Urinating outside the litter box
• Licking genitalia frequently
• Urinating while sleeping or lying down to rest

Causes of Feline Incontinence

There are many possible causes of incontinence in cats. 40 percent of cats will have issues with the spinal cord. Following closely are problems with the urethra, the tube leading urine out of the body from the bladder. Other problems with the bladder or problems with anatomy make up the remaining causes.

Cat incontinence causes may include:

Problems with the spine

• Inflammation of the lumbar vertebrae (lower back bones of the spine) keep urethra from staying closed
• Trauma
• Intervertebral disk disease (soft disks that cushion between each bone of the spine can become inflamed and pinch the spine)
• Cancer
• Spinal stroke, i.e. embolism

Problems with the urethra

• Weak muscle in the urethra. A weak muscle cannot keep the urethra closed, leading to urine leakage.
• Urethral sphincter incompetence (urethra cannot stay closed for reasons other than muscle). One cause is a congenital condition, meaning a cat was born with the issue due to genetics
• Inflammation or cancer of the urethra
• Urinary tract infections (temporary incontinence)
• Partial blockage

Problems with the bladder

• Overactive muscle (constantly squeezing the bladder)
• Inflammation of the bladder (temporary incontinence) 
• Cancer of the bladder
• Bladder infection or stones
• Cerebellar disease (inflammation in the tail-end of the brain that controls movement and balance)
• Bladder muscle instability due to feline leukemia virus infection
• Bladder atony (muscle is stretched and non-responsive after being unusually full)

Problems with anatomy 

• Ectopic ureters (tubes from kidneys that lead to the bladder connect to the bladder at abnormal places)
• Underdeveloped urethra
• Malformations of the spine

Diagnosing Cats with Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is diagnosed by physical examination and extensive history from pet parents. A history of recent trauma would hint to the issue, but most of the time, questions are asked about how much urine is produced and where, if your cat is peeing while lying down or sleeping, and how your cat feels otherwise (if there are any changes in appetite, activity, etc.).

Medical causes need to be ruled out right away. Usually, veterinarians will focus on confirming the urinary system – kidneys and bladder – are working well. Some cats will have urinary tract infections or other inflammation in the bladder or urethra that show up on their urinalysis (urine testing). To confirm the presence of bacteria, a urine culture should be performed as well. 

Bloodwork ensures the kidneys are functioning well and should include a feline leukemia virus test, even if one had been performed in the past. X-rays can look for stones in the bladder or kidneys, although not all stones show up on X-ray. An ultrasound may be performed to more closely evaluate the bladder and kidneys. Contrast imaging, which involves putting dye into the urinary system and taking X-rays to look for anatomic reasons for incontinence, may be suggested. Proving that the urethral sphincter is unable to stay closed is very challenging and rarely can be diagnosed with tests.

If your cat is incontinent, looking at issues in the spine is also important. X-rays can hint to certain things, but more advanced imaging is needed to know if the spine is normal. An MRI could be helpful and can also evaluate the brain.

Treatment for Cat Incontinence

Around 40 percent of cats with incontinence will regain continence without lifelong treatment or surgery. 

Most Treatable Causes

The most treatable causes are urinary tract infections, which can be cured with antibiotics, or inflammation of the bladder, which can be managed with anti-inflammatory and sometimes anti-anxiety medications. 

If your cat is diagnosed with chronic bladder inflammation, known as feline idiopathic cystitis, other changes will be recommended, such as encouraging water intake with canned food and water fountains.

Treating Partial Urethra Blockage

Partial blockages of the urethra usually result in regaining continence after treatment in about 66 percent of cats. Treatment may include physically unblocking your cat with a catheter under anesthesia, surgery, or medical management to allow your cat to more comfortably pass the stones themselves.

Treating Urethra Issues

If the urethra has weak muscles or sphincter incompetence and urine leaks for these reasons, there are medications that can help strengthen this muscle, such as phenylpropanolamine. Keep in mind that the medications may not work or may only help a little – each cat responds differently. These same medications may help cats with feline leukemia virus who are incontinent. 

Treating Anatomic Problems

In order to improve continence in cats with anatomic problems, surgery is necessary. Whether surgery is successful or what type of surgery is necessary varies and depends on the exact anatomic issue. In most cases, continence is improved but may not completely resolve. 

Cats with spinal cord disease or trauma causing incontinence do not regain continence as often, and there is rarely any treatment available.

Managing Incontinence in Cats

In many cases, your cat will remain incontinent to some degree. How you manage it depends on your comfort with your cat’s accidents, and where the accidents happen. If your cat urinates every time they’re sleeping, consider washable cat beds left in their favorite spots to encourage use. 

Put waterproof covers, potty pads, or towels over furniture or other surfaces that frequently experience accidents. In case your cat has some continence, and their urges are frequent, provide litter boxes on every floor or in each area of your home so there is a better chance they make it. Keep all litter boxes clean daily. If your cat has neurologic or spine issues, they may have trouble getting in the litter box. Choose a litter box with high sides that has a very low opening so it’s easy to get in and out.

Incontinent cat diapers can be placed on your cat, especially if they dribble frequently. However, these diapers should be changed at minimum every four hours or more frequently depending on volume. If your cat has inflamed skin due to urine leaking out, diapers are not a good idea until the skin has been treated.

How to Prevent Incontinence in Cats

Most causes of incontinence cannot be prevented, but some can, including:

Trauma. If your cat goes outdoors, consider cat-proof fencing for your yard or taking them for walks on a harness and leash instead of allowing them to roam freely. Ensure your home is both entertaining and safe for your cat.

Inflammation of the bladder. While cats tend to have feline idiopathic cystitis no matter what you do, flare-ups that could lead to incontinence can be prevented. Feed canned food, increase water intake, decrease stress when possible, and consider a prescription diet based on your veterinarian’s recommendations.

Stones. Stones can cause partial blockage of the urethra and are often associated with chronic inflammation of the bladder. If your cat has cystitis and develops stones, exclusively feeding a prescription diet is the best way to prevent creation of more stones.

In any case, as soon as you notice a change in behavior in your cat, they should be seen by a veterinarian. Catching issues early will make treatment easier and quicker, and treating issues early can prevent incontinence or decrease it substantially.

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Not many cats will experience Horner’s syndrome. It involves a very specific set of symptoms in the eye due to a variety of medical conditions, injuries, or surgeries. Many cats will eventually resolve the syndrome and have a good quality of life, but it’s normal to wonder: what is Horner’s syndrome? And what causes it?

What Is Horner’s Syndrome?

First things first. Horner’s syndrome is when an animal has distinct changes in the eye, and it typically occurs in only one eye. While it is a rare condition, it affects many species, including humans, dogs, and cats. 

A cat has Horner’s syndrome when they have at least three out of these four signs:

• Constricted, small pupil, also known as miosis
• Droopy upper eyelid, also known as ptosis
• Sunken eye, also known as enophthalmos
• Third eyelid elevation (pink flesh that comes from the inner corner of the eye but stays up instead of moving up and down when blinking)

Francois Pourfour du Petit wrote about this syndrome in 1727 after experimenting with the nerves running along the outside of the chest in animals. In future centuries, physicians attempted to understand the syndrome further, and a thorough explanation of what causes it was given by ophthalmologist Johann Friedrich Horner in the mid-19^th century.

What Causes Horner’s Syndrome in Cats?

The cause of Horner’s syndrome is the disruption of the sympathetic nerves to the eye. The sympathetic nervous system maintains the body’s involuntary processes, or things that an animal cannot control. For example, the pupil dilates in dim light and gets smaller in bright light. A person or animal does not think about this process – it just happens.

The sympathetic nerves that reach many components of the eye travel from the brain stem down through both the neck and chest spinal cords. The nerves then leave the spinal cords to go back toward the head through the chest, into the neck, past the base of the ear, and up to the structures of the eye.

Causes of Horner’s syndrome involve parts of the body in which the sympathetic nerves pass:

• Inflammatory conditions of the brain, especially the brainstem
• Trauma to the head, neck, chest, or spinal cord near those areas
• Issues inside the chest such as tumors or blood
• Ear issues such as middle ear infections
• Cancer in the neck, spinal cord, nerves under the armpit (brachial plexus), or lungs
• Medical care such as surgery of the jaw, ear, or neck
• Vascular (blood vessel) disease such as blood clots (rare)
• Inflammation of nerves (also rare)

About 40 percent of all cases of Horner’s syndrome in cats are considered idiopathic, meaning a cause cannot be identified.

Horner’s Syndrome Symptoms in Cats

As previously mentioned, cats with Horner’s syndrome must have three of the four signs outlined above in at least one eye. 

Since most cases have an underlying cause, other symptoms may include:

• Inability of blood vessels to constrict locally, causing redness in the eye
• Neurologic issues such as changes in behavior, limb weakness, or stumbling
• Pain, especially of the front legs or head/neck
• Decreased ability to breathe well (i.e. fast breathing rate)
• Regurgitation (passive ejection of food from the gastrointestinal system) or trouble eating
• Head-shaking
• Debris or redness in the ears

Diagnosing Cats with Horner’s Syndrome

Cats are diagnosed with Horner’s syndrome through physical examination by a veterinarian; no special tests are needed. To find the cause of Horner’s syndrome, a more in-depth physical examination, thorough history from pet parents, and testing are all required. 

During the physical examination, your veterinarian will look deep into your cat’s ear canals to see the eardrum and attempt to look for signs of middle ear disease. Evaluation of your cat’s gait (walk) and a more thorough neurologic examination are necessary.

When it comes to finding the actual cause, a complete understanding of your cat’s recent health and activities is needed to solve the puzzle that is Horner’s syndrome. Consider if there is any chance for trauma – did your cat leave the house for a little while? Did you notice any wounds or limping? Has there been any head-shaking? Has he undergone surgery recently?

Testing will be done to find the cause of cat Horner’s syndrome. X-rays are important to look for issues in the chest, like tumors or evidence of trauma. Sometimes x-rays are done on the skull to look for evidence of middle ear disease. Advanced imaging may be recommended via a specialist, like a CT scan of the skull and chest, or an MRI of the brain, spinal cord, and other nerves. In rare cases, if the cause is in the brain, a spinal tap to look at the fluid surrounding the spinal cord and brain may be performed.

When finding the exact cause proves to be challenging, a test can be performed at the veterinary clinic using an eye medication called phenylephrine at a very low concentration that stimulates the sympathetic response. When the medication is applied, it should dilate the pupil after 30 minutes – but only in cats with damage to the sympathetic nerves leading to the eye at the level of the skull. If the nerves were damaged elsewhere, such as the spinal cord or chest, the test won’t work. In short, this test determines where the damage is to identify the cause.

Keep in mind that nearly half of cats never have a cause identified, but it’s important to run tests to look for a cause – especially if your cat has symptoms other than the signs in the eye itself.

Horner’s Syndrome Treatments

There are currently no treatments for Horner’s syndrome. If there is an underlying cause, the cause should be treated, and Horner’s syndrome may eventually go away. 

In some cats, Horner’s syndrome never goes away or only does so partially. If cat Horner’s syndrome was caused by inner ear surgery, about 25 percent of felines will have it permanently. If no cause was identified, Horner’s syndrome usually resolves on its own, but it takes at least two months.

How to Prevent Horner’s Syndrome in Cats

While some of the causes of Horner’s syndrome in cats are preventable, most are not. Avoiding trauma is best done by keeping your cat indoors and away from situations in which they could become hurt, like not letting them onto a balcony where they could fall or jump.

If you notice debris or redness in your cat’s ears, scratching at their ears, or head-shaking, bring them to your veterinarian as soon as possible to treat the ear infection before it gets worse and causes Horner’s syndrome. 

If you notice any changes in your cat’s behavior, such as how they walk, their appetite, or their activity level, bring them to your veterinarian for a full evaluation. A medical condition could be found before it results in Horner’s syndrome.

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What Are Lipomas in Cats?

Lipomas are benign tumors, meaning they do not spread to other parts of the body (i.e., do not metastasize). While lipomas are very common in dogs, they are not that common in cats. Lipomas are made of adipocytes, also known as fat cells. For this reason, they feel like…well, fat. Lipomas are a little soft and a bit squishy. The difference between general fat and lipomas though is lipomas are fat cells inside of a round capsule. This makes the lipomas discrete from surrounding fat.

There are three types of lipomas in cats to know about:

Simple lipomas. Simple lipomas are small tumors that live in the fat layer found just beneath the skin. They tend to be pretty easy to feel on the outside of your cat. Simple lipomas are usually found on your cat’s trunk (his sides, belly, or back) or on his legs. In some cases, cats can have a lipoma inside the chest or inside the belly.

Myelolipoma. A rare form of lipoma is myelolipoma, which is a tumor of both fat cells and hematopoietic cells, or the cells that form the components of blood similar to what is inside bone marrow. These are benign tumors.

Infiltrative lipoma. In incredibly rare circumstances, cats develop what is known as an infiltrative lipoma. Instead of a round distinct capsule of fat cells, this tumor infiltrates—or invades—tissues around it. These are most commonly located on the thigh (upper muscles of the back leg). Sometimes the leg appears bulky and there is no distinct tumor. The muscles of the thigh feel harder than otherwise expected.

What Causes a Cat Lipoma?

There is no known cause of lipomas. The average age of cats diagnosed with a lipoma is 9.6 years old. Domestic shorthaired cats are the most common breed affected. Siamese cats may be more prone to having lipomas.

If lipomas are tumors of fat cells, it is a natural assumption that being overweight must cause lipomas. At this time, there is no firm evidence to suggest that your cat’s weight is directly linked to his risk of lipomas. Over half of pet cats in the United States are overweight or obese, so it’s no surprise the majority of cats who have lipomas are overweight. However, a 2018 study on lipomas in dogs noted that dogs over average weight were 2 times more likely to have a lipoma (1). More research is needed on this subject.

Lipoma in Cats Symptoms

The majority of cats with lipomas have no symptoms. Some lipomas can become very large and affect movement, but this is uncommon. If a lipoma is present inside the chest, increased effort to breathe, fast breathing rate, decreased activity level, and decreased appetite can occur. If a lipoma is present inside the belly, symptoms may include vomiting and decreased appetite. In rare cases, a myelolipoma of the spleen can rupture causing uncontrolled bleeding. Fast shallow breathing, increased size of the belly, and collapse are symptoms of internal bleeding.

For infiltrative lipomas, a back leg is often affected. As the lipoma grows in between muscles, it often causes changes in the way your cat walks, a change in behavior, i.e., less or no jumping, decreased activity, and limping.

Cat Lipoma Diagnosis

Simple lipomas can be poked with a small needle and the needle contents examined under a microscope. Individual cells are examined in a test called cytology, which reveals fat cells. Sometimes, if a veterinarian is unsure whether the tumor is truly a lipoma, she will recommend a biopsy. After a short surgical procedure under anesthesia, during which a piece (or all) of the tumor is taken, a pathologist will look at the tissue in sections and provide a certain (definitive) diagnosis. For infiltrative lipomas, a surgical biopsy is necessary—a needle cannot diagnose this tumor.

For the uncommon cases involving lipomas inside the chest or abdomen, X-rays are a good place to start to identify the mass and its general location. Ultrasound is an ideal way to better evaluate the density of the mass, and possibly place a needle through your cat’s skin into the mass to get a very small sample. A biopsy can be done especially on tumors in the belly.

Treatment for Lipomas in Cats

Simple lipomas rarely need to be treated. Unless it grows very large and affects how your cat walks, these lipomas are almost always harmless. Pet parents should monitor for sudden increase in size or other changes such as ulceration to the skin (top layer of skin is gone, leaving raw tissue exposed). If this occurs, the tumor should be re-evaluated. While uncommon, a tumor that appears to be just a lipoma can have another type of tumor present.

Lipomas in the chest or belly can be monitored, but if a cat develops symptoms, surgical removal is necessary. Infiltrative lipomas require treatment. Pain medication will help keep your cat comfortable. Surgical removal is ideal but is very difficult, requiring extensive surgery to remove the entirety of the tumor. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy have not been used routinely in the treatment of cat lipomas. 

Cost to Treat Lipomas in Cats

For most lipomas, pet parents will pay for cytology from a needle biopsy, approximately $50-$200, but no treatment is needed. If surgery of the belly is required to remove a tumor, the cost may be anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on how complex the surgery and care afterward is (such as if internal bleeding occurred). Surgery to remove infiltrative lipomas is approximately the same cost, depending on how large and severe the tumor is.

How to Prevent a Cat Lipoma

There are no known prevention methods for lipomas. While there is no strong evidence that maintaining a healthy body weight will prevent lipomas, there may be a connection. Avoid free-feeding your cat—measure how much he eats every day. Encourage exercise with a variety of toys and actively play with your cat at least twice daily. Ask your veterinarian to assess his weight. If your cat is overweight, your vet can give you advice on how much and what to feed your cat to ensure safe weight loss. 

References

1. O’Neill DG, Corah CH, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, Rutherford L. Lipoma in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK: prevalence and breed associations. Canine Genet Epidemiol. 2018;5:9. Published 2018 Sep 27. doi:10.1186/s40575-018-0065-9

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Is this normal? And when does heavy breathing in cats become a true concern? Let’s explore the topic further.

Understanding Normal Cat Respiration

Cats typically take around 15 to 30 breaths per minute when resting. Kittens and adults both breathe at about the same rate, but many things affect how fast a cat is breathing. During exercise or stress, like veterinary visits, this rate increases. 

It is normal for a cat to increase their breathing rate for a short time, but if it persists even when your cat is resting for at least an hour, it could be a sign of an issue.

Panting is frequently seen in dogs due to stress, exercise, and to decrease heat. Panting in cats is uncommon but can be seen in cats who have just exercised intensively and are living in warmer climates. However, if a cat is panting and has been inactive for the past hour, panting is abnormal especially if your cat is in a cool environment.

While breathing in, your cat’s belly moves out and the ribs move out and toward the head (inspiration). When breathing out (expiration), the opposite occurs. It is abnormal for a cat’s belly to move dramatically as if helping your cat to breathe. 

If your cat is in respiratory distress – meaning they cannot maintain enough oxygen and are struggling to breathe – he will often breathe fast (tachypnea) as well as breathe hard. Many cats will intermittently breathe with an open mouth, pant, and their nostrils will flare outward to get more air.

Why Is My Cat Breathing Heavy?

Very warm conditions, periods of intense stress, or times of strenuous activity levels for prolonged periods of time will cause your cat to temporarily breathe heavier. 

However, cats that are breathing heavy for over an hour without those potential causes are likely to have a serious medical concern. The five most common reasons for heavy breathing in cats are:

Heart Disease 

The most common cause of respiratory distress in hospitals. The most common kind of heart disease is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Heart disease can involve any portion of the heart and eventually result in the heart not being able to pump out enough blood. With left-sided heart failure, blood cannot efficiently return to the heart from the lungs, so fluid builds up inside the lungs causing respiratory distress. Heart disease tends to occur in older cats.

Chronic Bronchitis or Asthma

Respiratory conditions are the second most common cause of respiratory distress in hospitals. Chronic bronchitis and asthma result from long-standing inflammation in the smaller airways in the lungs. Eventually, the inflamed and damaged lung tissue cannot process air as it used to. This coupled with a sudden narrowing of the airways leads to respiratory distress. These conditions are typically diagnosed in middle-aged cats.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia means inflammation of the lungs. There are many different causes of pneumonia including viruses, bacteria, and fungi. The inflamed lungs cannot process air as usual. Sometimes fluid builds up outside of the lungs, squishing the lungs and preventing them from completely filling with air. Pneumonia is more common in younger cats.

Cancer

Tumors in the lungs or other places in the chest (such as lymph nodes) can compress airways, making it difficult to breathe. About 1/3 of lung cancers in cats cause a build-up of fluid as well. Lymphoma is the most common cancer identified in the chest.

Trauma 

Trauma is the least common cause of heavy breathing in cats. Typically pet parents are aware when trauma occurs. Cats who are hit by a car – or experience other trauma – develop rib fractures (breaks) or bruising (contusions) of the lungs. The pain as well as squishing of lungs or airways results in respiratory distress.

Heavy Breathing Cat: When to Worry

When a cat is breathing heavy, ask yourself: did my cat just finish running around like crazy? If you don’t have air conditioning, that could contribute to heavy breathing – even after light exercise. However, if your cat did not just exercise and it is cool in your house, you should consider it abnormal. Most cats that exercise will cool off over the next hour, and should stop breathing heavily.

Other symptoms that accompany respiratory distress can hint that something is truly wrong. If your cat has a low appetite, no longer wants to be active, and has a change in behavior like hiding then something is definitely wrong.

Sometimes pet parents see reverse sneezing and are afraid their cat is in distress. Reverse sneezing is when something is tickling your cat’s throat, and instead of sneezing outward, he sneezes inward. Reverse sneezing is a strong and sudden spasm of the throat and windpipe and can sound very alarming as if the cat is choking (but he isn’t). Cats pause what they are doing and stretch their neck in order to take in air. As long as this stops after a couple minutes, you shouldn’t worry – but take a video at home and call your veterinarian to ensure it is just reverse sneezing.

What to Do If Your Cat Is Breathing Heavy or Panting

If your cat was not just running around exercising, count how many breaths your cat is taking per minute. Count each time your cat’s chest and belly expand. If the breaths are too fast to count or are higher than 50 breaths per minute, call your veterinarian immediately. 

If you notice heavy breathing when your veterinarian is not available, call a local emergency clinic. Take a video of the breathing at home on your phone. This way, you can show the veterinarian what you are seeing.

Signs that you should drive to an emergency hospital right away include if your cat is open mouth breathing (without having just exercised), not wanting to get up or move around, laying on his side, or is not responding to your touch.

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Most pets – including cats – sneeze once in a while and it’s usually nothing to worry about. But if you’ve noticed your cat achooing more than usual, you may be wondering: why is my cat sneezing?

Sometimes sneezing in cats is a cause for concern. It might occur very frequently or come with other symptoms like being really stuffed up and not eating well. Read this article to determine why your cat may be sneezing so much, and what you can do about it.

Why Do Cats Sneeze?

Cats sneeze when the nasal mucosa, or lining of the passageways inside the nose, gets irritated. This area is very sensitive, and any physical irritant like a piece of grass or mucus, allergic irritant like pollen or dust, or infection such as feline herpesvirus (a common cause of “colds” in cats) can cause a sneeze. 

This irritation triggers the inspiratory center, a bundle of nerves that stimulates muscles of the body to pull a lot of air into the lungs. Once enough air has filled the lungs, the pressure suddenly pushes open the connection from the airways to the nose, called the nasopharynx. This sudden change causes a large push of air to be forced out through the nose, and some through the mouth.

Causes of Cat Sneezing

A cat may sneeze for a variety of reasons, including:

Basic irritation. Most cats sneeze a couple or few times simply because something has irritated the inside of their nose. It is a normal reaction to expel foreign material or irritating things from the nasal passageway. Food or fluid from the esophagus (tube leading to the stomach) during stomach upset can also cause sneezing.

Rhinitis. Cats develop different kinds of rhinitis, or chronic inflammation of the nose, for unknown reasons. This is one of the most common reasons for chronic sneezing.

Dental disease. When a tooth has a severe infection, it can rupture into the nose (fistula) or cause significant swelling in the mouth that affects the nose. The roof of the mouth (the palate) and the nasal passageways are extremely close to one another and are interconnected.

Viral infection. Upper respiratory infections (aka kitty colds) are very common in cats and are almost always caused by feline herpesvirus-1 or feline calicivirus.

Allergies. Allergies cause the immune system of your cat to overreact to certain things. This overreaction leads to nasal inflammation and sneezing.

Polyps. If a cat has inflammation or an infection in the nose (or ear) for a long period of time, the body can overreact to the inflammation and creates small non-cancerous masses that extend outward from the site of inflammation.

Foreign bodies. Anything that gets lodged in the nose that shouldn’t be there will definitely cause sneezing! Little pieces of plants are common foreign bodies.

Bacterial infection. While antibiotics are frequently given to cats with sneezing and congestion, the primary cause of sneezing is rarely bacteria. If bacteria are present, this is usually because of a virus or other issue.

Fungal infection. Fungi such as Cryptococcus spp. can invade the nose, creating significant inflammation.

Cancer. Lymphoma and adenocarcinoma are the types of cancer that most commonly afflict the nasal passageways.

Congenital conditions. Cleft palate occurs in some kittens, which means there is a hole in the hard palate on the roof of the mouth, allowing food and liquids to enter the nose.

Sneezing in Cats: Other Symptoms to Watch For

There are many symptoms that commonly occur with sneezing, including:

• Runny nose, or discharge from the nose
• Watery eyes
• Blood in the discharge from the nose after sneezing

Sneezing indicates that the lining of the nose is irritated and probably inflamed. When the nose is inflamed, the body naturally develops mucus (snot) that gets sneezed out. Clear, runny discharge is more common, but green or yellow mucus occurs too. The eyes and nose are connected, so if the nose is stuffy, the eyes will have a back-up of tears that cannot drain through the nose making the eyes watery. After a few days of inflammation in the nose and sneezing, a little blood is common due to the nasal passageways being irritated.

Other symptoms that can occur in sneezing cats include:

• Being less active
• Changes in behavior, i.e. hiding more
• Lower appetite
• Gagging or retching that can result in vomiting
• Loud breathing
• Breathing with the mouth open
• Coughing
• Wheezing

What is Reverse Sneezing in Cats?

Reverse sneezing occurs either when the mucosa of the nose or the pharynx (the back of the throat) is irritated. Reverse sneezing is a strong and sudden spasm of the throat and windpipe and can sound very alarming as if the cat is choking (but he isn’t). 

The spasm causes the windpipe, or trachea, to narrow so inhaling air is more challenging for a brief moment. Instead of air being forced out of the nose, a very strong rush of air comes in that causes cats to pause what they are doing and stretch their neck in order to take in air. 

Since cats typically breathe through their nose, and they are usually stuffed up when reverse sneezing occurs, it creates a loud noise.

What to Do if Your Cat Is Sneezing

If your cat has just sneezed a few times or sporadically, it should not cause immediate concern. Watch for changes in activity and appetite. 

Allergies and herpesvirus infections come and go, and can cause a cat to sneeze, be a little stuffed up, and have watery eyes for a couple weeks before fading away on their own. No vet visit is needed as long as your cat is otherwise acting like himself and eating well. Keep a mental note of when this episode occurs, which will be useful information to your veterinarian if it gets worse or happens repeatedly.

If your cat is less active, eating less, or is coughing or wheezing, he should go to the veterinarian right away. It does not necessarily mean your cat needs emergency care, but he needs extra support like hydration. Testing commonly includes X-rays of the chest to ensure the symptoms are only related to the upper part of the airway such as the nose and throat. On occasion, sneezing goes along with more serious conditions like pneumonia (infection in the lungs) and needs advanced treatment.

If your cat is very stuffed up, place him in a small bathroom and turn the shower on hot. Allow your cat to sit in a steamy bathroom for 15 to 20 minutes 2 or 3 times per day – the steam can help with congestion and get rid of some mucus. If the air in your home is pretty dry, consider a humidifier in whichever room your cat spends most of his time. Gently wipe your cat’s face with a damp cloth if there is a lot of discharge. Offer multiple food options, both dry and canned food, including different brands, textures, and flavors if your cat is not eating well. You can even try plain cooked meat like tuna from a can or plain chicken.

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The sad reality of raising kittens from early days, however, is that approximately 15 percent of kittens won’t make it. This means 85 percent will make it though, and treatment is possible if your kitten is in trouble. 

It’s important to become familiar with fading kitten syndrome. If any kitten begins to show symptoms of illness, they need treatment right away.

What is Fading Kitten Syndrome?

Fading kitten syndrome is a general term that describes illness and death in feline neonates. Any kitten from newborn to 4 weeks old is called a neonate. Fading kitten syndrome refers to neonates that become sick and – over hours to days – decline in health until death.

People mistakenly use the phrase fading kitten syndrome to indicate an ill kitten but not necessarily one that dies. Illnesses that can cause fading kitten syndrome have treatment if provided early on.

What Causes Fading Kitten Syndrome?

There are many potential causes of fading kitten syndrome:

Maternal causes. Many issues with the queen will lead to the death of her kittens. Difficulty giving birth, illness, malnutrition, parasites, trauma, or a lack of milk production can cause fading kittens.

Congenital abnormalities. These are conditions that the kitten was born with. Congenital issues account for up to 20 percent of all deaths in neonates and are caused by genetics, or sometimes trauma or illness that occurred in the mother cat while she was pregnant. Examples include cleft palate, when a hole is present in the roof of the mouth, and heart defects.

Low birth weight. Kittens born with a low weight at birth do not have as many reserves to survive illness or rough environmental conditions and may be weak. On average, kittens should weigh 90-110 grams at birth, but kittens that weigh less than 75 grams at birth have a higher chance of passing away.

Neonatal isoerythrolysis. Kittens that are born with type A blood to a queen with a different blood type (type B) have an immune system issue. The queen passes antibodies when nursing that destroy the kitten’s red blood cells.

Infectious diseases. Bacteria can cause life-threatening infections that are introduced by the birthing process or by many illnesses that affect the guts or the lungs. Viruses are common in kittens, especially herpesvirus and calicivirus that cause upper respiratory disease. Protozoal infections also occur such as toxoplasmosis.

Parasites. Parasites found inside the body are common, including roundworms, hookworms, and coccidia. Parasites like fleas or ticks can cause significant blood loss in tiny kittens.

Environmental issues. An ideal environment for a mother and her kittens should be around 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit, but very cold or very hot environments can cause a kitten to fade. A dirty environment or toxins would affect the kitten as well.

Fading Kitten Syndrome Symptoms

The symptoms of fading kitten syndrome are vague. Since the syndrome can be due to a wide variety of issues, it is not easy to tell which symptoms each kitten will experience. However, general weakness, low appetite, decreased activity, and/or feeling cool to the touch are common symptoms. 

Other symptoms may include:

• Weight loss or lack of weight gain
• Excessive crying
• Sleeping separately from the other kittens
• Cannot right herself if placed upside down (3 days of age and older)
• Pale gums (i.e. appear white instead of pink)
• Distended belly
• Difficulty breathing (open mouth, blue-tinged gums and/or tongue, gurgling sounds)
• Icterus (yellow discoloration to the skin and mouth)
• Blood in the urine
• Eye or nose discharge
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Seizures

Diagnosing Fading Kitten Syndrome

Veterinarians diagnose fading kitten syndrome when a kitten less than 4 weeks old passes away. To determine the cause, it is important to examine the kitten thoroughly for any abnormalities. Symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea would lead to testing the feces for parasites. A small amount of blood may be used to test for low red blood cells (anemia) and low blood sugar, a common finding in sick kittens.

The queen should be thoroughly examined as well when a kitten is not doing well. Veterinarians may perform additional testing on the queen such as a fecal test for parasites.

How to Treat Fading Kitten Syndrome

There are 3 types of therapy required to stabilize a kitten that is fading:

Warmth. Many fading kittens are too cold. At home, be sure to provide a safe heat source approved for kittens such as a microwaveable heating disc under a towel. Always provide space without a heat source for the queen or kittens to cool off.

Sugar. Any kitten that is fading should have either corn syrup or maple syrup applied to their gums immediately. Do not use light syrup – the more sugar, the better. The goal is not for the kitten to swallow the syrup but to rub it across the gums. Water with sugar added will not work as most kittens cannot absorb anything in their guts when they are cold and sick.

Fluids. Kittens have a higher need for fluids and are more easily dehydrated than adults. While kittens that are fairly healthy may do well when given fluids by mouth, sicker kittens require fluids under the skin or through the veins (i.e. through a catheter).

If your kitten is fading, immediately call your veterinarian after providing warmth and sugar. She will be able to provide advice for treatment at home or determine if the kitten needs to be seen by the veterinarian. Causes of fading kitten syndrome can worsen quickly, and many conditions require medical treatments.

Attempting to force-feed kittens is NOT recommended without veterinary guidance. Not only is there a chance that the kitten will accidentally breathe in the liquid and develop pneumonia, but also, cold kittens cannot absorb fluids or nutrients through the guts. If neonates are fed formula when cold, it will rot in their guts and not much will be absorbed.

Once your veterinarian has examined and performed some testing on the kitten, treatment may be provided. Serum may be injected from a donor cat to replace the antibodies, or immune system protection, needed in the first day of life. Oxygen may be provided if respiratory issues like pneumonia occur. Antibiotics may be useful, as well as medications that kill parasites. If blood loss from parasites or neonatal isoerythrolysis is severe, a blood transfusion may be recommended.

Prognosis for Fading Kitten Syndrome Cure

Technically fading kitten syndrome is deadly, as the syndrome is defined as kittens that have passed away. However, many kittens that are becoming ill respond well to treatment. 

Fading kittens become progressively more ill over mere hours or days. Prognosis is better the sooner that treatment is sought. Prognosis is worse if the kitten had a low weight at birth (<75 grams) or has congenital abnormalities.

Most deaths in neonates occur in the very first week of life, so if your kitten is older than 1 week, chances are higher she will survive.

How to Prevent Fading Kitten Syndrome

There are several things that can be done to prevent this syndrome:

Veterinary check-up for the queen. Provide veterinary care to the queen prior to giving birth or have her examined as soon as possible. Parasites can be treated, and other issues would be detected that prevent the queen from caring for her kittens.

Monitor kittens daily. Weigh each kitten daily and record the weight in grams. If a kitten has not gained any weight in 24 hours, watch very closely for symptoms. If another 24 hours passes without weight gain, the kitten should be examined by a veterinarian. If any symptoms are noted in any kitten, seek veterinary advice right away. Oftentimes, illness is very subtle in the beginning but kittens need fast treatment to pull through.

Deworm kittens every 2 weeks. Starting at 2 weeks of age, liquid dewormer can be given by mouth every 2 weeks to rid the kitten of parasites.

Ensure the queen has received her preventives. Flea preventive on the queen, deworming, and vaccination will keep the queen and thus the kittens healthy.

Maintain a clean, controlled environment. Ability to control temperature is ideal. Keep other cats, dogs, and other animals away from the queen and kittens. Ensure no toxins are present, and that the kittens do not have the ability to fall off a surface.

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As much as we may not enjoy kittens making a mealtime of our fingers and clothes, biting is a normal behavior for young felines. But why do kittens bite? And what can we do to keep them from gnawing on us? 

Read below to understand what pet parents can do to curb the habit.

Do All Kittens Bite? 

Yes, ALL kittens bite. Biting is a developmental stage, and biting is a natural behavior inherent to all kittens. Kittens need to bite during play and to explore other objects. Biting is also developed as part of a normal desire to hunt. 

From 3 weeks until 16 weeks of age, it is very important that kittens engage in social play to learn skills that will last their lifetime. 

Biting is learned automatically regardless of whether your cat has other feline companions in the home. However, having cats around during this stage is important because other cats will teach the kitten to bite very lightly and less often. 

Why Do Kittens Bite?

When kittens are first learning to play – around 3 weeks old – they use their teeth on their mom and siblings. Stalking, pouncing, and biting is a common sequence of events kittens use to practice hunting. They start by doing this on their kitty friends instead of prey. 

In addition, kittens will chew on items as a way of exploring new things, or sometimes because they are teething.

In some cases, kittens will bite out of immense fear, stress, or pain. Feral (wild) kittens that were born outside are often so fearful of humans, they will bite when humans try to handle them. 

Bites that come from fear or pain usually cause a break in skin with puncture wounds, bleeding, or deep marks. On the other hand, play bites tend to leave no marks or a very minor mark.

Understanding Kitten Teething

Kittens bite and chew on things – and pet parents – more often while they are teething. Teething is the normal process when a cat’s baby teeth fall out and are replaced by adult (permanent) teeth. 

Kittens have changes in their teeth between the ages of 3 to 6 months. Similar to human children, kittens likely feel discomfort or minor pain while teething and chewing on items changes how their gums feel.

On occasion, pet parents will see smeared blood on whatever their kitten was chewing. Some kittens chew so much that the tooth falls out a little sooner than it would have otherwise, and a small amount of blood follows. This is normal, and the bleeding stops quickly.

How to Stop Kitten Biting

Pet parents must recognize they cannot (and should not) stop kittens from biting. It is a natural behavior. If pet parents scold, yell,, or punish kittens for biting it can cause fear and mistrust. 

While kitten parents cannot stop biting, they can redirect it. Instead of allowing your kitten to bite you, direct your kitten to bite something more appropriate. Here are some tips to prevent your kitten from biting you or chewing something they shouldn’t:

Never play with your hands or feet. Always hold a chew toy, or better yet a wand toy, when playing with your kitten.

If your kitten bites you, stop interacting with him. Do not make eye contact, do not talk to him, and move away from him. This doesn’t need to last long (perhaps a minute). Once that’s done, start interacting with your kitten again. Each time your kitten bites you, repeat this process. This is how cat moms and siblings show a kitten that they do not enjoy being bitten!

Immediately redirect attention following a bite. Grab a toy to either toss for him or use a wand toy to engage in play. Redirect by distracting your kitten to bite something else.

Play with your kitten often. Active play doesn’t mean giving your kitten a new toy and walking away – it means directly playing with your kitten with the toys. Every kitten needs much more play time than adults to burn energy and practice new life skills.

Don’t underestimate enrichment. The more enrichment your kitten gets, the less likely he will end up biting you. Provide your kitten with a variety of toys with a variety of textures and sizes. Purchase food puzzles that encourage working to find food. Provide new smells and tastes that are safe for cats. Play music or fun videos meant for cats. Invite other people over who understand how to play with kittens to introduce them to a variety of people.

Reward kittens for not biting. After a play session that did not involve any biting, provide your kitten an extra reward such as a couple treats or a tablespoon of their favorite canned food!

Kitten Biting vs. Adult Cat Biting

Biting is a natural part of play, and kittens begin biting other cats (and humans) starting at 3 weeks of age. With appropriate social play with other cats, kittens learn bite inhibition. 

Bite inhibition means cats learn the appropriate force to use when biting. It would be inappropriate for a bite to break the skin and cause injury when the cat is intending to play. If a kitten is not well socialized with other cats during this crucial developmental stage, he may bite often and very hard when he shouldn’t.

Kittens are more likely to bite due to play and practicing hunting. This is in contrast to adult cats, who tend to bite due to fear, stress, or frustration. In addition, many chronic, painful conditions can cause behavior changes in adult cats, such as biting. Both kittens and adults may also bite when being pet to indicate they wish the petting to stop.

Kittens tend to bite more softly. They often do not make puncture marks or cause bleeding unless they are biting due to fear. Adult cats have varying degrees of bite inhibition, ranging from no physical trauma to deep puncture wounds. 

Teaching adult cats not to bite is extremely difficult if they were not properly socialized as kittens. It is critical that all kitten parents focus on preventing biting behavior from an early age, since bites from adult cats could become more severe.

Do Kittens Grow Out of the Biting Phase?

Kittens will grow out of the biting phase – sort of. While cats will always bite during play, kittens play less (and bite less) as they grow older. 

All pet parents must encourage healthy play in their kittens and prevent them from biting humans or other harmful or dangerous objects. If pet parents redirect biting behavior to appropriate places, their kittens will have a much better chance of not biting people as adults.

The post Why Do Kittens Bite? appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Keep reading to find out why you should never lift your cat by the scruff of the neck. You’ll also find a better way to hold your cat. 

What is Scruffing a Cat?

A cat’s scruff is the loose skin located at the back of the neck. Scruffing refers to picking up a cat by this loose skin. The behavior may have originated upon “watching [mother cats] use their mouths to move their kittens around”. says Dr. Andrew Koch, director of operations for Heart + Paw. “The kittens seem to freeze while being transported in this way,” Koch adds. 

Scruffing is also used among adult cats during copulation and for showing dominance during a fight. 

When humans do it, however, scruffing is an act of dominance that the cats don’t like. Restraining a cat in this way takes away her sense of control and could make her scared, stressed, or aggressive.  

Historically, scruffing was mainly used in veterinary clinics during examinations, nail trimming and medicine administration. While this might be an easy option for restraining a cat, Dr. Carley Faughn, animal behaviorist at Best Friends Animal Society, says it can result in fear of the veterinarian. And if cat parents do this at home, it can create mistrust between the pet parent and the cat. 

Scruffing could also be painful and harmful to the cat. Since the pet is lifted off the ground or table entirely by the skin off her neck, it could be extremely uncomfortable for the feline, causing her to act out due to stress and fear. This could lead to injuries. 

6 Reasons You Should Never Grab a Cat by the Scruff

Scruffing is an outdated method that has no place during handling a cat. Here are 6 reasons why you should never scruff a cat.  

Scruffing is painful: “A firm grasp of skin at the base of the neck is undoubtedly uncomfortable for cats,” says Dr. Koch. Moreover, suspending their weight by the nape of their neck can cause pain.

It causes fear and stress: Scruffing can activate the sympathetic (fight or flight) response that increases feelings of fear and stress, explains Dr. Koch. A visit to the veterinary clinic can be stressful for cats already (due to being in a carrier, going for a car ride and being surrounded by barking dogs), and there’s no need to create more anxiety for our feline friends. It’s best to implement fear-free handling to cause as little stress as possible for the cat. 

It leads to negative associations: According to Dr. Faughn, being held in an uncomfortable position and not being able to move, can lead to the cat “associating that environment, person/people, and situation with fear.” This will make any future visits to the veterinarian even more difficult. 

It can lead to aggressive behavior: Scruffing can cause fear in a cat. When that fear crosses a certain threshold, says Dr. Koch, the feline is likely to defend herself by biting or scratching.  

Cats can get injured during scruffing: In addition to scruffing being painful, it can result in injuries if the handler is not careful. Cats may react with fear or aggression and this may cause a person to accidentally drop a cat. Further, in rare cases, some cats have skin fragility syndrome, where “their skin can rip right off the underlying fat layer,” says Dr. Koch. 

It can hurt your relationship with your cat: Scruffing essentially immobilizes a cat and it is not a pleasant experience at all. This makes felines develop negative feelings for the person doing the scruffing. “Cats learn best through positive reinforcement, and this is the opposite of that,” says Dr. Faughn.

How to Properly Pick Up or Restrain a Cat

If you are wondering how to hold a cat without scruffing, there is a right way to do it. The best way, says Dr. Faughn, is to call the cat to you or approach her slowly, and pick her up with your arms and hands underneath her front and back legs, fully supporting her weight. 

To lightly restrain a cat at home, Dr. Koch recommends having the cat in between your legs when “sitting cross-legged and using your hands to gently hold the cat still while you either look at something or perform nail trims or another at home procedure.”

Another good way to humanely restrain a cat is to use the towel method, which some people refer to as the “kitty burrito.” This method has been adopted by many veterinary clinics. You wrap a towel loosely around a cat, and gently restrain her, leaving her head out of the towel. 

“Once the cat is wrapped, you can safely and calmly manipulate the cat to continue with your procedure,” says Dr. Faughn. 

In a situation where your cat is really stressed out, Dr. Koch says anti-anxiety medications, pheromone sprays, or calming treats can help facilitate the restraint. Pheromone sprays can be used inside a cat carrier or on a towel to help a cat remain calm during veterinary appointments. Sometimes, a veterinarian may send home an oral medication to administer before bringing the cat to the appointment. If the cat gets stressed upon arriving at the clinic, injectable medications can be used to subdue the cat without scruffing. 

The post 6 Reasons to NEVER Scruff a Cat appeared first on Great Pet Care.

In fact, 15 percent of cats over 12 years old have a low body condition, meaning they do not have enough muscle or weigh less than they should. 

But how do you know if your older cat losing weight is normal? What does weight loss look like in senior cats and when should you discuss your cat’s weight with your veterinarian? Let’s explore senior cat weight loss in more detail.

Senior Cat Weight Loss: Is It Common?

Senior cat weight loss is very common. Senior cats have a decreased ability to absorb fat and protein. They lose about 1/3 of their lean body mass, meaning the weight your cat would be without any fat. 

After cats reach 11 years old, they require more nutrition just to maintain their resting body weight. This can result in weight loss, particularly if a health condition causes your cat to not eat well.

While some weight loss is common for senior cats, it is not necessarily normal. Many health conditions that cause your cat to need even more nutrients occur more frequently in senior cats. Many times, older cats hide their illness until they feel very sick, and too much weight loss occurs rapidly. 

As soon as any weight loss, changes in behavior, decreased appetite, or decreased activity level occurs, speak with your veterinarian. Catching health concerns early will make them much easier to treat and keep your cat comfortable.

We make it easy to track your pet’s weight using our FREE weight tracker. Sign up today!

What Does Senior Cat Weight Loss Look Like?

Many senior cats lose weight gradually, so it is difficult to notice the weight loss when you see your cat every day. However, if a senior cat is ill, it is possible that weight loss can be quick and dramatic. If you can’t recall when your cat started to lose weight, and the changes in appearance are subtle, the weight loss has likely been a gradual process.

There are two types of weight loss: total body mass and lean body mass, or muscle. When a cat loses weight, the body tries to prevent the loss of lean body mass, so fat is eliminated first. However, in some nutritional issues or medical conditions, muscle is lost instead. This is coupled with the natural loss of muscle in senior cats.

Loss of total body mass is easier to spot – your cat has less fat under the stomach and around the waist, and the midsection looks smaller. 

Muscle loss is tougher to identify but is easiest to tell when running your hand down the spine of your cat. The spine, a row of bones, have bony pieces that stick up. Typically, good amounts of muscle cause the spine to feel fairly flat. However, when muscle loss occurs, the bones protrude more and are much easier to feel firm bumps down your cat’s back. Other muscles are affected as well, including the legs which will look skinnier, especially the back legs.

Any weight loss in senior cats should be investigated especially if it goes along with other concerns like vomiting or decreased appetite. Again, since cats hide their illness until very sick, even mild weight loss should be brought up to your veterinarian. 

Why Is My Older Cat Losing Weight? 8 Common Causes

In order to treat your cat’s weight loss, it’s important for veterinarians to identify the cause of the weight loss. These are common reasons that older cats lose weight:

Dental disease. Issues with the teeth or inflammation in the gums can make chewing and eating quite painful. Infection can occur which makes cats feel ill.

Inflammatory bowel disease. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is when a cat’s intestines and/or stomach is inflamed. It could be allergies to food or just inflammation in general with no known cause. Chronic diarrhea or just inflammation in the intestines can lead to loss of protein, which causes general weight loss and higher loss of muscle.

Chronic kidney disease. Kidney issues in cats are very common. Kidney disease often leads to nausea, which results in decreased appetite, and increased loss of protein. This causes muscle loss in cats.

Hyperthyroidism. Thyroid hormone is produced in higher amounts, leading to much higher nutrient needs. Often, cats with hyperthyroidism experience gastrointestinal (GI) side effects such as vomiting, which further decreases their ability to get enough nutrition.

Diabetes mellitus. When cats have diabetes, their insulin production is decreased. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar. Diabetes results in many hormonal changes that cause cats to lose weight, including breaking down muscle. Diabetic cats have very specific nutritional needs, and their weight will not return until their blood sugar is regulated.

Cancer. Cancer of any part of the body could be to blame for weight loss and can be very hard to detect until it is in advanced stages in cats.

Degenerative joint disease (arthritis). While arthritis will not cause weight loss in cats directly, it often causes cats to be less active which causes decreased muscle due to not using it as much. Arthritis can make walking or retrieving food quite painful and decrease the amount of nutrition that your cat gets.

Normal aging. It is a normal aging process to lose muscle as well as a little body weight overall. Just keep in mind that this would be very gradual and in very small amounts. Pet parents should never assume weight loss in a senior cat is normal until they have spoken with their veterinarian.

Other Symptoms to Note

Symptoms that may go along with an older cat losing weight include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Decreased activity
• Changes in behavior, like vocalizing at night
• Changes in your cat’s habit of jumping (i.e. not jumping onto surfaces the cat used to)
• Not eliminating in the litter box
• Increased urine
• Increased drinking

Some pet parents report fur loss, or a different appearance to the fur, when they discover their cat lost weight. This can be due to pain or discomfort that your cat is feeling due to an underlying illness like arthritis. Cats may remove their fur in times of mental stress, but this is rare.

If you notice these symptoms in conjunction with weight loss, you should make an appointment to see your veterinarian.

Cats can lose weight without displaying other symptoms and while having a good appetite. This may happen due to hormone differences or imbalances or the diet they are eating is no longer supporting their nutritional needs. Talk to your veterinarian if you have concerns about your senior cat’s weight loss. 

What to Do If You Notice Weight Loss

If you notice your older cat losing weight, speak with your veterinarian right away and make an appointment for a health assessment. A thorough examination will be performed, paying close attention to your cat’s teeth and if the weight loss noted is muscle loss or overall weight loss. 

Most veterinarians will recommend bloodwork and urine testing to evaluate how well your cat’s organs are functioning. This bloodwork will likely include a thyroid test. If these are normal, depending on what your veterinarian saw during examination, she is likely to make further recommendations, which may include X-rays to look for arthritis and to get a better look at your cat’s organs.

Helping Senior Cats Gain Weight

It is very important that senior cats gain weight until they have reached (or slightly exceed) their ideal weight. Veterinarians determine ideal weight by using a chart comparing different body conditions. 

Here are some things that can help older cats gain weight:

Medications: Most of the diseases that cause weight loss can be treated or managed with medications. Antinausea medications often increase appetite, which can help support weight gain in older cats.

Appetite stimulants: Appetite stimulants are medications that increase a cat’s appetite. If your cat is being picky about eating or doesn’t seem to be eating as much as they should, an appetite stimulant may be helpful.

Nutritional supplements: Nutritional supplements can help support healthy aging and decrease weight loss in cats. Glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega fatty acids support joint health. Coenzyme Q10 helps the body recycle and reuse vitamin E, which eliminates free radicals. Speak with your veterinarian about what supplements are best for your cat

Dietary changes: Diet is key to preventing weight loss. First and foremost, it must be palatable to your cat – meaning your cat likes the taste, smell, and texture of the food and eats it well. Cats’ taste can change as they age, and as pet parents we need to search for a nutritious diet made for senior cats that they enjoy. If a medical condition exists, prescription diets are ideal since they are specially designed to provide the exact nutrition your cat needs. Feeding high protein and low carbohydrate food is best for senior cats.

The post Older Cat Losing Weight: 8 Common Causes appeared first on Great Pet Care.

However, many cat health conditions and a few medications may make it unsafe for pet parents to give this medication to their cat. You should always confirm with your veterinarian before giving your cat Benadryl. 

Read below for more information, including dosing and administration tips.

What is Benadryl?

Benadryl is a brand name for the generic medication diphenhydramine. It was accidentally discovered as an antihistamine in the 1940’s by a chemist. Antihistamines are medications that block histamine. By doing so, antihistamines decrease allergy symptoms. 

The FDA approved Benadryl for human use in 1946, and to this day it is a well-known medication used in both human as well as animal patients (including dogs and cats). It has been available in various generic forms since the 1960’s and is widely available across the United States. 

Benadryl and all the generic forms can be found over the counter in a variety of stores. Many veterinarians carry this medication for their patients or recommend pet parents purchase it at a local store or pharmacy.

Benadryl is in many products that are not marketed just for antihistamine properties. A strong side effect in humans is sleepiness, so many companies market Benadryl as a “sleep aid” to help people fall asleep. Benadryl may also be in a combination of medications for sinus pain relief, often included with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) such as acetaminophen and pseudoephedrine, a nasal decongestant.

Can You Give Cats Benadryl?

Yes, Benadryl can be used in cats. However, a veterinarian should be consulted since many cat health conditions may become worse in combination with this drug. In addition, if not dosed correctly, side effects can be intense.

If your cat has the following health concerns, giving Benadryl could be harmful:

• Chronic bronchitis or “asthma”
• Liver disease
• History of seizures
• Glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
• Hyperthyroidism (producing too much thyroid hormone)
• Urinary retention (not able to fully empty the bladder)
• Intestinal atony (slow movement through the guts including megacolon)
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure (hypertension)

Benadryl enters the milk and goes to kittens, so if your cat is lactating (i.e. feeding kittens), veterinary advice is necessary before giving this medication. Benadryl has not been studied in pregnant cats, so ask a veterinarian if you believe your cat is pregnant.

There are two sizes of tablets made specifically for dogs and cats. However, the human form is safe, too, as long as it is dosed appropriately and doesn’t contain other medications. It is also important to purchase tablets or liquid if using human formulations, since the capsules will almost certainly be too high of a dose for a cat.

What Is Benadryl Used for in Cats?

Benadryl is primarily prescribed for skin conditions. Antihistamines help to decrease symptoms such as itchiness in the skin by preventing allergies to the environment, such as allergies to pollen. However, Benadryl is rarely effective as the only treatment for moderate to severe allergies. Benadryl is also used to prevent allergic reactions to vaccines, blood transfusions, and chemotherapy (i.e. drugs used against cancer).

Benadryl also has anti-nausea properties, meaning it may decrease nausea and vomiting. Benadryl is specifically prescribed to help with motion sickness in cats that may happen from car rides. A common side effect of Benadryl for cats is drowsiness, so some veterinarians may recommend a dose to calm your cat down prior to something stressful like a veterinary visit.

In summary, Benadryl can help cats with:

• Allergies
• Pruritus (skin itchiness)
• Miliary dermatitis (skin condition in cats likely due to allergies)
• Prevention of allergic reactions to vaccines, blood transfusions and specific medications
• Motion sickness
• Mild sedative

Benadryl for Cat Travel

Using Benadryl during travel with your cat is a safe way to decrease motion sickness, which can cause some cats to vomit. It also makes cats a little sleepy, which can help decrease some other symptoms that make travel harder like vocalizing. 

However, Benadryl does not decrease cat anxiety and is unlikely to be helpful in cats who are very stressed or anxious.

How to Give Benadryl to Cats

Liquid medications are often the easiest in cats, but only human formulations of liquid Benadryl are available, and they are flavored to be sweet. While cats cannot taste sweet very well, the fruity flavors of Benadryl are often not appreciated by cats!

Tablets are another way of providing Benadryl in safe dosages to your cat. Pet parents can crush the tablet into a couple tablespoons of canned cat food and let their cat eat it. Use a very small amount of food so your cat eats all the food and the whole dose in a short amount of time. 

In a pinch, if your cat won’t eat the medication in food, crush the medication into a small amount of tasty liquid like tuna juice or low-sodium chicken broth. If your cat doesn’t drink it, use a syringe to get your cat to swallow it.

Benadryl for Cats: Side Effects

Benadryl has mild side effects, unless your cat receives a dose that is high or she has other chronic medical conditions. The most common side effect is drowsiness and occurs in most cats. 

Some of the side effects for cats, however, can be serious. If an overdose is suspected, cats could develop issues like seizures, coma, and death. However, the dose needed for this would be very high and is extremely rare.

Possible side effects of Benadryl for cats include:

• Drowsiness
• Ataxia, or walking drunkenly
• Agitation
• Seizures
• Behavior changes like vocalizing, affectionate behavior
• Gastrointestinal effects like decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea
• Decreased frequency of urination

Reactions with Other Drugs and Medications

Benadryl can react with other cat medications including:

• Other antihistamines like amitriptyline, chlorpheniramine
• Alprazolam
• Amitraz
• Diazepam
• Methionine
• Phenobarbital
• Prochlorperazine
• Selegiline

Reactions typically result in an increase in side effects of either Benadryl or the other medication. Benadryl should not be given to cats just before or after anesthesia, since certain medications that may be used during anesthesia interact with Benadryl.

Benadryl Dosage for Cats

Benadryl is dosed for cats based on weight and must be given at least every 12 hours, but preferably every 8 hours, to be effective. 

Before giving this medication, pet parents must follow-up with their veterinarian first to avoid serious side effects. 

The typical dose for cats is 1-2 mg per pound of body weight. One-quarter of the 25 mg tablet is prescribed for most cats 2 to 3 times per day, but a half tablet may be necessary if your veterinarian advises it. 

This dosing would be too much for kittens and very small cats. For liquid, each pound of your cat’s weight would equal a dose of approximately 0.4 mL. An 8-pound cat would need to drink over 3 mL of this stuff – which can be very challenging to administer.

Before giving your cat Benadryl, make sure to review with your veterinarian the exact product you plan on giving. Many products are made with other medications like acetaminophen or pseudoephedrine which are toxic to cats.

Cost of Benadryl for Cats

Generic forms of diphenhydramine tend to cost less than name-brand Benadryl medication. Each tablet costs approximately 4 cents, so for most pet parents they will only pay 2 cents per day to give this medication in tablet form. Giving an 8-pound cat liquid will cost approximately 20 cents per day.

Benadryl Storage Instructions

All forms of Benadryl should be stored at room temperature (68-77 degrees). For tablets and capsules, avoid high humidity. The injectable form needs to be protected from exposure to light.

The post Benadryl for Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Cats seem to love heat, but is it possible to have too much warmth? How hot is too hot for cats? 

While overheating in cats is uncommon, it is a very serious condition and all pet parents should know what to watch for, and how to prevent it.

What Temperature is Too Hot for Cats?

There is no simple answer to this question! Each cat will have a temperature that is too hot for him or her as an individual – depending on their age, health, fur coat, or what environment they are used to. 

Cats naturally relieve heat from their body through changes to their blood vessels during high temperatures, choosing a cool surface to lie on, avoiding direct sunlight, and seeking air flow like a gentle breeze.

However, as environmental temperatures reach close to their body’s natural temperature, cats become too hot. Normal body temperature for a cat older than 4 weeks old is 99.5 to 102.5 degrees. Temperatures around 90 degrees and above tend to make cats uncomfortable and lead to the need for additional heat loss through panting.

Humidity is the measure of how much water is in the air. As humidity increases, it decreases the amount of heat that can leave the surface of the body. If humidity is high, the temperature does not need to be very hot outside before it is too hot for cats.

The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends maintaining places where cats and dogs live to under 80 degrees, and 30 to 70 percent relative humidity [1]. Federal Animal Welfare Regulations, maintained by the United States Department of Agriculture, require no more than 4 hours of exposure to temperatures over 85 degrees for cats and dogs [2]. Both of these organizations set limits that should maintain the comfort of most animals, but keep in mind that some animals will not be comfortable even when following these guidelines.

Do Cats Get Hot?

Cats definitely get hot. Their comfort level tends to be higher than it is for humans, as most people do not appreciate 90-degree weather. Cats that are uncomfortable with the temperature seek a cooler surface to lay on, avoid direct sunlight or sources of heat, and avoid exercise. 

When cats become very uncomfortable, you will notice panting which is otherwise uncommon in cats. Your cat may not wish to eat as much and will be much less active. If this occurs, you should provide plenty of fresh water and shelter from the heat immediately.

Short exposure to high temperatures is easier to handle. The higher the temperature gets, the shorter your cat can withstand the heat. If temperatures are around 85 to 90 degrees, your cat may be comfortable for a couple hours if there is an opportunity to cool herself and get plenty of water. If temperatures are well above 90 degrees, it’s a good guess that your cat will be hot within a matter of minutes as opposed to hours – even if water and shade are available.

What Temperature Do Cats Like?

In general, cats are most comfortable above 60 degrees and below 80 degrees. However, this depends heavily on the individual cat, the humidity in the air, the ability to rest on a cool surface, and how well ventilated a space is.

Humidity under 70 percent is most comfortable. The higher the humidity, the quicker your cat becomes uncomfortable in any temperature. Air conditioning decreases humidity, but dehumidifiers can be used as well.

Most homes can easily provide cool surfaces. These are not surfaces that are cooled purposefully – cold surfaces are rarely comfortable for cats – but are areas of the home where sunlight is blocked, and the material does not easily absorb heat. Most types of flooring inside a home stay cool, especially hard surfaces like tile.

Ventilation is important when heat rises. Any flow of air will help cats dispel heat from the body such as a fan or opening windows or screen doors to catch a breeze. (Always ensure intact screens cover the openings to keep your cat from getting out!) If cats are trapped in a small room without any fresh flow of air such as an attic space, the heat rises quickly and can cause your cat to overheat.

Can Cats Overheat?

Cats can overheat, but it is rare. For this reason, it is not well studied in cats. In contrast, overheating is fairly common in dogs. One study in the United Kingdom showed that all cats with heat-related illness became ill due to high environmental temperatures, and not from too much exercise, which was common in dogs [3]. Cats are known to climb into clothes dryers and may develop heat stroke if they remain in the dryer after it is turned on [4].

When cats overheat, it causes heat stroke. Heat stroke is life-threatening and is caused by high body temperatures leading to damage to multiple organs in the body. 

There are several reasons an individual cat may be more likely to overheat such as:

• Obesity
• Heart disease
• Old age
• Dark-colored coat
• Brachycephalic breed (ex. Persians)
• Hyperthyroidism (producing too much thyroid hormone)
• History of seizures
• Medications such as furosemide or beta blockers (ex. atenolol)
• Recently gave birth and has low calcium levels

Cats need to acclimatize or get used to the environmental temperatures. This process takes 60 days and occurs naturally as seasons change and temperatures rise. Physiologic properties within your cat’s body change, like how much water and salt the body holds on to (as opposed to letting it leave through urine) and how much blood the heart pumps out. For this reason, cats that move from a cooler climate to a hot climate and cats who are exposed to sudden high temperatures when spring turns to summer are more at risk of overheating.

Outdoor and indoor cats are both at risk of overheating. Outdoor cats that are not confined are likely to have acclimatized to the outdoor temperatures and have favored spots to keep cool. However, if water becomes scarce and temperatures soar, outdoor cats can overheat. Indoor cats tend to get overheated when they are confined in a small hot space like an attic, small unventilated room, or clothes dryer.

Signs a Cat is Overheating

If your cat appears to be overheating, she should be seen by an emergency veterinarian immediately. 

Symptoms of heat stroke in cats include:

• Fast breathing
• Continuous panting
• Struggling to breathe
• Excessive saliva
• Vomiting with blood
• Diarrhea with blood
• Inactive, unwilling to hardly walk
• Collapse (i.e. suddenly drops to the ground, not moving or not completely aware of her surroundings)
• Disorientation (i.e. does not appear to know where she is, spaced out, stumbling)
• Seizures

How to Cool a Cat Down

If pet parents note their cat is overheating, they should immediately use a cloth soaked in room temperature water, gently wipe the cat down with it, and place the cat in front of a fan. If the cat was on a warm or hot surface, place her on a surface that is not in direct sunlight and is cool to the touch. Call your veterinarian right after this.

If any symptoms of heat stroke appear, transport your cat to the emergency hospital right away. In the car on the way to the hospital, pet parents should turn the air conditioning on or roll the windows down for a breeze.

Pet parents should NOT use cold water on their cat, use ice packs or ice baths, cover their cat in wet towels, or place rubbing alcohol on the paws. All of these actions will either cause too fast of a drop in temperature which will worsen the cat’s condition or will actually decrease the ability of the body to get rid of excess heat.

Summer Tips for Keeping Cats Cool

If you’re trying to get through the dog days of summer with your feline friend, here are some tips to keep your cat cool and comfortable when temps heat up.

Try Frozen Treats

While frozen treats will not help cats who are overheating – or prevent them from doing so in very high temperatures – it is a great kitty enrichment tool and will cool them slightly on a warm day. 

Some lickable treats can be frozen, or pet parents can purchase an ice cube tray and fill it with either low-sodium chicken broth, tuna juice, or plain water as an interesting frozen treat.

Keep Fresh Water Flowing

Keeping fresh water available to cats at all times is critical to preventing overheating. While cats do not typically drink a lot of water, high temperatures will cause them to drink more. Cat water fountains are a great way to encourage cats to stay hydrated. 

During travel or any time pet parents are on-the-go, bringing a portable water bowl is a must to offer their cat something to drink at least every 4 hours in air conditioning or every hour in warm temperatures or high humidity.

Try a Cooling Mat or Bed

As mentioned, cats can rid their bodies of excess heat by lying on a cool surface. A gel-based cooling mat or bed may help to keep your cat comfortable during heat waves. Make sure to avoid products with ice packs or frozen water, as these are not ideal for regulating your cat’s body temperature. 

The post How Hot Is Too Hot for Cats? appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Some cats do this occasionally, and others frequently—perhaps every day. Is that frequency normal? What can you do to decrease scooting? And is it a sign of discomfort or a health problem? Read to find out.

Why Is My Cat Scooting?

Cat scooting is a natural behavior, and it is normal to see it on occasion—perhaps a couple times per week at the most and for a short amount of time during each scoot. 

The most common reasons cats scoot are either to clean poop from their butts, or to stimulate their anal glands. Anal glands are right on the anus, the opening from the rectum (large intestine inside) to the outside. The glands are full of stinky liquid that serves to mark territory each time your cat poops.

But if your cat scoots every day (or maybe several times a day), or the scooting starts to increase, there could be several medical reasons why:

• Dermatitis (skin inflammation) in the area of the butt
• Vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina in female cats)
• Proctitis (inflammation of the end of the large intestine a.k.a. the rectum)
• Anal gland disease
• Tapeworm infection
• Bladder or urethral inflammation (Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease or FLUTD)

Obesity often leads to dermatitis around the butt, since your cat cannot properly groom the area. Allergies cause inflammation in a variety of places on your cat including the inside of the rectum. You may notice diarrhea if your cat has proctitis. Flea infestation can result in tapeworm infection. Tapeworm segments can be seen in poop or on the butt itself and are off-white and rice-sized. If you notice your cat is urinating outside of the litter box or there is a change in the urine such as having a red color, your cat could be experiencing FLUTD.

Anal gland disease in dogs is relatively common; it is fairly uncommon in cats and likely not the cause of scooting. 

As you can see, there are a number of things that can cause a cat to scoot. Keep veterinary costs from adding to your list of concerns by having a pet health insurance policy in place. The folks at Lemonade offer customizable plans that start as low as $10. Everything from signing up to making a claim can be done on their mobile app.

What Should You Do If You See Your Cat Scooting?      

If your cat is scooting, allow him to finish. But if you see your cat scooting, and wish for him to stop, do not yell or “punish” him negatively in any way. Since scooting is a natural behavior, this will frighten your cat and lead to other issues. Try to distract him with his favorite toys or treats instead.

After your cat is finished scooting, lift his tail and look closely around the butt. Is there any poop or debris in the fur? Does the skin around the butt look red or crusty at all? Is there any fur missing? If so, you should schedule a veterinary examination. 

Using a warm washcloth or unscented pet wipes, you may gently try to wipe away debris. However, if your cat reacts strongly, or you would have to press a bit to get something off there, do not attempt to clean any further and call your veterinarian.

Do not attempt to express your cat’s anal glands at home! Most cats will not allow this and a person trying to do so could cause more harm than good.

If your cat begins to increase how often he scoots, you should schedule a veterinary examination even if the skin around the butt looks normal. Most of the causes are not apparent to us. Other clues as to what might be causing the scooting include a history of allergies or itchy skin, changes in urination such as red urine or peeing outside the litter box, diarrhea, and rice-sized off-white granules in the poop.

Cat Scooting Treatment

The first way to treat cat scooting is to keep your cat’s butt clean. If any poop is stuck to the fur, your cat will often scoot. If this does not resolve the issue, veterinarians will often try a variety of remedies that may help your cat with symptoms. 

Examples of treatments for cat scooting include:

• Steroids such as prednisolone. These decrease inflammation and are especially useful in cats with allergies.

• New diet that is protein restricted. Beef, chicken, and fish are the most common causes of food allergies in cats. Prescription diets are created to avoid these common allergens and decrease inflammation.

• Antibiotics. If there is anal sac disease, a skin infection, or your veterinarian suspects an infection of the bladder, urethra or vagina, she may prescribe antibiotics to combat most common bacterial infections.

• Anal gland expression. Not all cats allow examination of anal glands, which requires your veterinarian to put a gloved finger into your cat’s butt. Expressing them can help your veterinarian discern if the glands are infected or not. Expressing the liquid content of the glands may help relieve symptoms, although it is unlikely. 

• Topical ointments, mousse, or shampoos. For any areas of the skin that are inflamed, your veterinarian may recommend a prescription shampoo to combat infection and inflammation.

• Tapeworm medication. The most common medication is praziquantel, and one dose would be enough to kill tapeworms.

• Pain medications. Sometimes, just to rule out pain or discomfort from the bladder or other places, your veterinarian may prescribe pain medications to see if they help your kitty feel better.

Home Remedies for Cat Scooting

There are many things you can do at home to try and help your cat’s scooting issue:

Wipes intended for humans with hemorrhoids. Gently wiping your cat’s butt keeps it clean, but these wipes are medicated to provide relief from inflammation and discomfort. Ask your veterinarian before using a human wipe on your cat. 

Feed a high-quality canned diet. Increased water intake may help if your cat has urinary (bladder) issues. Canned cat food diets have less carbohydrates than dry food diets, and this may help decrease diarrhea in some cats.

Increase fiber intake. Psyllium fiber can help “bulk up” your cat’s poop, allowing the anal glands to express more frequently. Start with ¼ teaspoon twice daily and monitor for a response over a couple weeks. Fiber supplements for cats may also be beneficial.

Apply monthly flea preventive. This will prevent fleas and thus tapeworms!

Control how much your cat eats every day. If your cat becomes overweight or obese, he will not be able to groom properly, and this may lead to dermatitis and scooting. If your cat is currently overweight, speak with your veterinarian about the amount of food your cat should eat to lose weight.

Cat Scooting: The Bottom Line

Cat scooting is a normal behavior but can be a sign of discomfort if it is frequent. Most of the time we cannot see the reason why our cat is scooting, and you will need your veterinarian’s help. 

Keep a close eye on your cat’s weight, and ensure your cat is keeping his butt clean. Monitor your cat for any other concerns such as changes to his poop or urine habits.

The post Cat Scooting: Why It Happens and How to Stop It appeared first on Great Pet Care.

If you want to know what to watch for and possible treatment if your veterinarian finds cat kidney stones, read below.

What Are Kidney Stones? 

Kidneys are important filters for your bloodstream, removing toxins by putting them into urine. Vitamins, blood sugar (glucose), hormones, and many other important components are re-circulated into the body after filtering. The kidneys flow urine into the bladder through tubes called ureters. Once urine fills the bladder, it flows out of the body through a single tube called the urethra.

When a cat has more minerals or salts in the body than usual, like calcium, they build up and form into small stones in the kidneys. This is a very similar process to humans. The most common type of kidney stone in humans and cats is calcium oxalate, and kidney stones are frequently associated with high blood levels of calcium (hypercalcemia). Magnesium ammonium phosphate stones, also known as struvite stones, are the next most frequent stone in cats and are associated with ongoing bacterial infections.

How Often Do Cats Get Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones occur in cats but aren’t that common. Knowing exactly how often they occur is difficult, since many cats that have kidney stones don’t experience symptoms and the stones may never be found. 

Siamese cats are more prone to kidney stones than other breeds. It’s believed long-haired cats may be more prone to them as well.  

Cat Bladder Stones Vs. Kidney Stones

Bladder stones and kidney stones are made of the same minerals and occur for the same reasons. However, these two types of stones do not necessarily occur together. Only 15 percent of cats with stones in the kidneys have bladder stones. Bladder stones are much more common, composing over 90 percent of all stones found in the urinary system.

The symptoms of bladder stones and kidney stones are usually similar, although symptoms can vary. Common symptoms include increased urination, increased drinking, blood in the urine, and changes in behavior like being less active or urinating outside of the litter box. For kidney stones, most cats don’t have symptoms. If symptoms are present, kidney stones often cause pain in the lower back which can cause a cat to arch his back and tuck his belly.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones in Cats

Kidney stones do not often cause symptoms in cats. When symptoms occur, it is usually because a kidney stone is trying to pass out of the kidney down the ureter—which in humans is described as excruciatingly painful. 

Your cat may experience symptoms because he has kidney disease, and just happens to have stones as well. Kidney stones can cause:

• Increased urination and drinking
• Vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Abdominal pain – your cat may not want to be picked up, or he may keep his back arched and tuck his belly up
• Blood in the urine
• Behavior changes – like hiding more, less playful, urinating outside the litter box, etc.

Diagnosing Kidney Stones in Cats

Most of the time, kidney stones are diagnosed when cats aren’t even experiencing symptoms. X-ray is the most common way, but ultrasound can also detect kidney stones. 

Physical examination is important to look for symptoms of kidney stones, or other medical conditions that could explain symptoms. Baseline blood work is necessary to check for kidney disease—some studies have shown a correlation between kidney disease and having kidney stones. 

Also, checking your cat’s calcium levels is important to prevent calcium oxalate stones. A urinalysis and urine culture are best practice since some kidney stones occur due to chronic infection. Crystals in the urine may indicate which kind of stone is present.

How to Treat Kidney Stones in Cats

There are a few main ways to handle kidney stones in cats:

No treatment. Most kidney stones do not cause symptoms in cats. If the stones remain the same size and quantity, and your cat does not have symptoms, there is no need to treat. However, no treatment does not mean ignoring the issue. Routine, yearly monitoring is important. Speak with your veterinarian about how much monitoring is needed for your cat based on their age and other health conditions.

Medical therapy. Cats with kidney disease should be treated symptomatically, such as treating nausea and dehydration. Pain medications should be given if any discomfort is noted. Antibiotics are needed if urine testing demonstrates infection.

Change of diet. Some types of stones can be dissolved by feeding particular diets. Unfortunately, calcium oxalate stones—the most common one in cats—cannot be dissolved medically. Struvite stones can be dissolved by feeding a diet low in magnesium and phosphorus. 

Home-cooked diets without oversight from a veterinary nutritionist are not recommended, as minerals are not often balanced and can make matters worse. 

Surgical or procedural therapy. Newer surgery techniques have been developed that are safer, less invasive, performed by specialists, and have relatively good success rates. One example is percutaneous nephrolithotomy during which a specialized needle is passed through the side into a specific area of the kidney. The surgeon then carefully breaks up and removes stones. If a stone becomes lodged in the ureter (flow of urine out from the kidney), a stent can be placed that widens the ureter and allows urine to flow around the stone. A procedure involving shock waves to break down kidney stones into smaller pieces is commonly used in dogs but is not very effective in cats and can result in significant kidney damage.

Homeopathic therapy. Increasing the amount of water your cat drinks should prevent crystals forming and may help stones pass through the ureter. This can be attempted by feeding a cat canned food, offering a water fountain, and adding safe, tasty liquids to water such as low-sodium chicken broth or tuna juice. Homeopathic veterinarians prescribe herbal remedies that have been shown to decrease some symptoms and may even help treat kidney stones.

How to Prevent Kidney Stones in Cats 

Cat kidney stones largely cannot be prevented, especially since veterinarians do not fully understand why cats form them. Once your cat is diagnosed with kidney stones, most cats will develop more stones even if the stones are all dissolved or removed at one point.

If your cat is diagnosed with kidney stones, a few things pet parents can do to prevent more kidney stones include:

• Feed a prescription diet that dissolves and/or prevents your cat’s particular type of stone
• Encourage increased water consumption (see homeopathic therapy above)
• Get routine blood work 2-4 times per year to screen for kidney disease or other concerns such as high calcium levels
• Supplement potassium citrate (a salt prescribed by your veterinarian) if diagnosed with calcium oxalate stones (not well studied in cats yet)
• Supplement Vitamin B6, since kittens without enough vitamin B6 may form calcium oxalate stones. Speak with your veterinarian first before using new supplements.

The post Kidney Stones in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment appeared first on Great Pet Care.

When you look over at your crazed kitty, her eyes may glow an eerie dim blue-yellow light even when most lights have been turned off. So what is the reason for this glow, and why do cats have a fantastic ability to see so well in the dark?

Can Cats See in the Dark?

Yes. Cats can see in the dark and have much better night vision than humans do. Humans need six times more light than cats to see in the dark. Cats can see well when it is dark, but there needs to be some light.

Although cats can be active at night, cats are not nocturnal animals. Instead, cats are crepuscular. Crepuscular animals are most active at dusk and dawn. Cats evolved from desert animals, and dusk and dawn are the coolest times of the day. For this reason, cats are most active at those times.

How Do Cats See in the Dark?

Light enters an eye through the cornea, the pupil, and the lens. A cat’s cornea, or the clear part of the front of the eye, is larger than other species and can catch more light when it’s dark outside. A cat’s pupil, or the black center of the eye, can open very wide and round and allow the lens to catch more light. A cat’s lens, or the clear curved structure behind the black pupil, is also larger to supply more light to the retina behind it.

A cat’s retina, found at the back of the inside of the eye, has a special layer called the tapetum lucidum. This layer is made up of reflective cells that allow light to bounce off the back of the eye, increasing the chance the eye will absorb the light. Think of the tapetum as a mirror reflecting beams of light. This layer is the reason cat eyes appear to glow in the dark! Cat eyes allow six times more light to be processed by the retina than humans, giving them excellent night vision.

Photoreceptors called rods and cones sit in the retina. Rods improve vision when it is dark and detect movement, while cones are responsible for seeing color and sharp images in the daytime. Compared to other species, cats have way more rods—three times as many as humans. Rods are also responsible for detecting movement, which explains why cats are excellent hunters at night. However, the number of cones in a cat’s eye is lower, so cats cannot see as many colors or very well in the daytime.

How Well Can Cats See in the Dark?

Cats can see very well in the dark. Based on the high number of rods and the tapetum layer in their eyes, cats can see better at night than humans, dogs, and many other animals. The trade-off is that cats cannot see well in daylight. Cats have many more rods than they do cones, which are necessary to see clearly in daylight. Also, a cat’s eyes are so reflective that when light enters the eye, it bounces back and forth until it lands on receptors to take the signal, resulting in less accurate vision in the daytime.

Surprisingly, there are other ways cats can “see” without using their eyes. Their sense of smell, hearing, whiskers, and paws can be used to navigate without seeing well. Whiskers sense vibrations or changes in air current, which helps cats determine the size, shape, and speed of moving objects near them. Their paws feel for vibrations on the ground, which also assists cats when it is dark.

Cat Night Vision: Other Interesting Facts

• Cat’s vision equates to 20/100. Their sharpness of vision is less than dogs or humans.
• Cats can see yellow and blue colors, but red and green are viewed as various shades of gray.
• Vocalizing at night is common in cats when they become senior, and it is often tied to medical concerns such as loss of vision or hearing.
• A cat’s tapetum layer reflects 130 times more light than human eyes.
• Cats can see up to 120 feet away, but many cats cannot see things within a foot of their nose.

The post Can Cats See in the Dark? appeared first on Great Pet Care.

While pet parents love their cats dearly, this habit of allowing everyone to get a whiff of cat poop is not preferable. And if your cat’s poop is particularly stinky, it can be unbearable! You might be wondering: “Why does my cat’s poop smell so bad?”

Here we cover what cat poop should be like, and what could be causing particularly foul litter box odors.

Healthy Cat Poop: What Does it Smell Like?

Healthy cat poop does have a smell, and it doesn’t smell great, but it shouldn’t stink up your whole house. The wafting smell typically decreases after a few minutes. 

Healthy cat poop should be formed in logs 1 inch or longer that stay formed when picked up. The poop may leave a light amount of residue on the litter scoop but shouldn’t look wet or stick to the scoop. 

Healthy, low-stress cats also get their poop into the litter box.

Terrible Cat Poop Smell: Getting a Whiff

While we can all agree that cat poop doesn’t smell good, it shouldn’t smell like rotten eggs, death, iron (metallic), or be so potent that you cannot stand to be in the room. A lot of times, foul smelling cat poop can be detected from anywhere in the house—at least on the same level. 

The smell lingers until it is scooped and cleaned up. If your cat did not cover the poop with litter (or it’s not in the litter box), this will be especially stinky! If your cat’s poop is this foul, it’s likely her farts are pretty bad, too.

Cats are fastidious groomers—they clean themselves immediately if dirty. If they are not grooming poop off themselves, something is wrong. Your cat should definitely not smell like poop.

Why Does My Cat’s Poop Smell So Bad?

There are some reasons your cat’s poop may smell particularly bad:

Diet. If your cat’s diet is not well-balanced or it is hard to digest, she may have foul smelling poop.

Inflammatory bowel disease. This is often caused by allergies to food. The most common allergies are to beef, fish, and chicken [1]. Sometimes cats have inflammation in their guts without an allergy which would also cause foul poop.

Parasites. There are many parasites common to kittens and adult cats that live outside, including roundworms and coccidia. The parasites that tend to upset a cat’s gut the most are Giardia spp. and Tritrichomonas spp. Special testing and long courses of treatment are required to get rid of these parasites.

Liver or gallbladder disease. The liver is a part of the digestive system, creating bile and nutrients as well as filtering toxins. The gallbladder is essential to aiding digestion of fat in foods. Liver disease or gallbladder disease can cause a cat’s poop to smell bad.

Pancreatic disease. The pancreas is a part of the digestive system, providing enzymes needed to break down food and get nutrients. Some cats experience pancreatitis, or an inflamed pancreas, that can last a long time. In rare cases, a cat may lose so much pancreas to scarring that it doesn’t function at all.

Medications. Some medications, like antibiotics, will disrupt normal gut bacteria. When normal bacteria are killed, abnormal bacteria take over and affect gut health in cats. This can lead to stinky cat poop. 

Stress. Stress can cause gut upset due to hormones that change when a cat is stressed. Whether it is a one-time event (like a move to a new home) or chronic stress (like being picked on by another cat), stress can change a cat’s gut health.

Any other illness. Cats with any disease become stressed due to pain or discomfort. Even though some illnesses are not related directly to cat gut health, being sick in general can affect the gut.

How to Stop Your Cat’s Poop from Smelling Really Bad

The first thing to do would be to discuss the issue with your veterinarian. Your vet will need to run some quick tests and examine your cat to ensure she doesn’t have parasites or other illnesses that show up on bloodwork. Inflammatory bowel disease is a common issue in cats and requires surgery to test for it—so most of the time, your veterinarian will recommend therapy first.

Here are some common ways that veterinarians recommend treating cat poop that smells bad:

Diet Change 

If your cat has diarrhea (stool that is not well formed) or your cat is constipated (strains to poop and it takes at least 2 days to poop), a high-fiber diet may be best for your cat. These diets are meant to increase multiple kinds of fiber in the food and are super digestible, meaning it is easy for the guts to break down the food. 

On the other hand, the best choice for your cat could be a novel protein or hypoallergenic diet. These diets are intended to avoid food allergies and provide high quality nutrition. Results may not be seen for up to 2 months, and these diets must be the only thing fed—no treats and no other foods.

Probiotics

Probiotics contain live bacteria that survive and thrive inside a cat’s acidic stomach. These “good” bacteria can do wonders for balancing the gut and aiding in better digestion.

Medications

If your cat is diagnosed with an illness, she may require medications either short-term or long-term. Sometimes cats with diarrhea will be given medication like metronidazole.

Decrease Stress 

If your cat is experiencing stress in the home, work on decreasing those stressful situations. For example, if you have more than one cat and there is aggression between them, separating them at certain times and giving medications to both may be useful. Increase enrichment for your cat by providing new toys, puzzle feeders, places to climb, and things to scratch. Try cat pheromones in stressful zones of the home. Medications or natural supplements such as hydrolyzed milk protein may help as well.

Homeopathic Remedies 

Cats can benefit from an increase in fiber in their food. The best way to do this is to add psyllium powder. A good dose is ¼ teaspoon per meal. With cats experiencing diarrhea, plain cooked chicken (without skin or bones) can be fed to your cat for less than 1 week. This may help by decreasing carbohydrates, which are harder to digest when the guts are inflamed. (Keep in mind that this is NOT balanced and feeding for more than a week is detrimental to your cat.)

How to Get Rid of Cat Poop Smell

If you are looking to get rid of that stinky cat poop smell, here are some tips to beat unpleasant odors:

Always keep the litter box clean. Allowing cat poop to linger in the box will increase the smell of your home. Scoop the litter box at least once per day, and twice daily if possible (or whenever the poop is present!). Completely empty the litter box and clean the box with dish soap and water at least monthly, but more frequently if able. 

Make sure you have enough litter boxes. Each cat in your house should have 1 litter box, and it’s recommended to add one additional one. So, if you have 2 cats, you should have 3 litter boxes. Place them in different locations (and on different levels) in your home.

Consider switching cat litter. If your cat is not burying her poop, she probably doesn’t like the type of litter you have bought. If you are using a pelleted litter, try a softer clay litter. Clay litter is easier to bury poop and thus better masks the smell. Make sure the litter is 2-3 inches deep as well.

Use cat-safe air fresheners. The use of odor-absorbing air fresheners is a great way to contain smells before you can get to cleaning the litter box. Place one near each litter box. Just make sure the air freshener is completely contained in a container that cannot be accessed by your cat. Avoid sprays and air fresheners that mask instead of absorb smells, as these can be harmful or—at the very least—annoying to your cat.

Clean accidents quickly. If your cat poops outside of the litter box, immediately clean it up with a gentle cleanser. Avoid any cleaners with phenols or pine oil, as these are toxic to cats. If your cat pooped on a carpet, choose an enzymatic cleaner specially designed for pet odors.

Stinky Cat Poop: When to See a Veterinarian 

Call your veterinarian if you notice that your cat’s appetite or activity has decreased. If your cat has diarrhea for more than 3 days, it contains blood or mucus, or it is severe and/or frequent, dehydration is likely and veterinary care is needed. Any vomiting, apparent weight loss, or changes in behavior associated with feeling ill should be addressed right away.

If your attempts at home have not resolved the foul smells in a month, you should call your veterinarian. Sometimes bad-smelling cat poop is a symptom of something more serious and should be investigated.

Cat poop that smells really bad is not an emergency. However, if you notice your cat having no appetite, being very lethargic (not wanting to move much), or vomiting multiple times over 24-48 hours, you should seek emergency care for your cat. 

The post Why Does My Cat’s Poop Smell So Bad? appeared first on Great Pet Care.

How much water is too much? What causes your cat to drink so much water? And, more importantly, what should you do about it? Read on for answers.

Why Is My Cat Drinking a Lot of Water? Common Causes

There are many health-related reasons cats will drink too much water. Polydipsia, the name of the condition for excessive water consumption, has three common causes:

Chronic Kidney Disease

Around 1-3% of all cats have chronic kidney disease. Over time kidneys become more and more damaged. Kidneys are partly responsible for maintaining your cat’s balance of water. When kidneys are damaged, they cannot hold onto water like they should. Instead, all of the water goes into the urine. This makes your cat increasingly thirsty.

Hyperthyroidism

Up to 11% of older cats live with hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland produces thyroid hormone, which is responsible for growth, metabolism, and impacts the brain. When the gland produces too much hormone, metabolism becomes really high and the effect on the brain can cause changes in behavior. When metabolism increases, so does thirst. Also, thyroid hormone blocks antidiuretic hormone (ADH) from interacting with the kidneys. This hormone allows the kidneys to keep water in the body and not put water into the urine. If ADH cannot interact with the kidneys, a lot of urine and thirst occur.

Diabetes Mellitus 

Around 0.5% of all cats have diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus occurs when your cat does not have enough insulin. Insulin allows blood sugar (glucose) to enter the liver, muscle, and fat and provide energy. If there is not enough insulin, glucose gets increasingly high with nowhere to go. The kidneys push glucose into the urine, and through osmosis, water follows glucose to dilute the urine. Since your cat produces too much urine to rid the body of glucose, she becomes very thirsty.

If your cat is diagnosed with diabetes, their treatment plan may include insulin injections. However, some cats may be candidates for a needle-free alternative to insulin called Bexacat, a once-daily flavored tablet.

Less Common Causes

Liver disease. Problems with the liver can occur for several reasons, including viral, bacterial, fungal, parasitic, inflammatory, or cancerous reasons. With severe liver disease, your liver struggles to function normally, which can affect water intake. For example, the liver stops making urea which normally allows the kidneys to retain water.

Medications. Many medications affect thirst and urination. Common medications include steroids (such as prednisolone), phenobarbital (used for seizures), or diuretics (used to decrease body water for conditions like congestive heart failure).

Hypercalcemia. Many conditions can cause too high of calcium in a cat’s body such as chronic kidney disease, vitamin D toxicity, and cancer. When calcium is very high, it prevents ADH from interacting with the kidneys. This prevents the kidneys from keeping water in the body, so a lot of urine and thirst occurs.

Cancer. The reason cancer affects thirst depends on where the cancer is, such as liver cancer for reasons above or if cancer causes hypercalcemia. 

Pyometra. This condition is an infection of the uterus. If your cat is not spayed, she may develop this common condition (which does not always result in polydipsia). Pus fills the uterus and often leaks outside of the body through the vulva. The reason pyometra causes polydipsia (due to polyuria) is uncertain.

How Much Water Should a Cat Drink?

Cats typically drink 18 to 27 mL of water per pound of body weight per day. An average 10-pound cat drinks approximately 180 to 270 mL of water per day, which is equivalent to around ¾ to 1 cup of water each day. 

Each individual cat will vary in how much water they need to drink, and what is normal for your cat may fall a little outside this range. 

Factors that could alter how much water is required include:

Diet. Canned cat food has water content already, so your cat will drink a little less if they eat a wet food. Also, diets high in sodium require more water.

Environment. Warmer months or higher humidity require more water to stay hydrated, especially if your cat is active.

Age. Very young cats drink more than adults. Young kittens under 8 weeks of age require as much as 80 mL of water per pound of body weight! 

Health. If your cat has a medical condition, she may need to drink more water to stay hydrated.

Medications. Certain medications increase thirst and/or urine output in cats.

If you are reading this article because you are concerned with how much your cat is drinking, try measuring out the amount of water you put in the bowl each morning. The next morning, measure how much is left (wait until 24 hours have passed). Be sure to never limit the amount of water your cat wishes to drink! She must always have access to as much water as she wants.

How Much Water Is Too Much? 

Polydipsia is the condition of a cat drinking too much water. It is usually caused by polyuria, meaning your cat’s body is producing more urine and needs more water to do so. Shorthand for these two cat health conditions is PU/PD.

Cats vary in how much water they drink day to day. If your kitty is particularly thirsty one day (maybe due to running around on a hot summer day), the next day her drinking would be less. This would be normal variation and no reason to worry. 

But if your cat is consistently (each day) drinking more than 45 mL per pound of body weight per day, she likely has polydipsia. A 10-pound cat would need to drink more than 450 mL of water per day to have polydipsia, or about 2 cups.

You may not notice a subtle increase in your cat’s water drinking, but look for signs like:

• An empty water bowl more frequently
• Waiting by the water bowl for more, meowing until it’s refilled
• Drinking an entire water bowl or most of one in one sitting
• Larger volume of urine in the cat litter box (bigger clumps and/or higher number of them)
• Urine outside of the cat litter box

What to Do When Your Cat Is Drinking Too Much Water

If you suspect your cat is drinking too much water, measure it out as described earlier in this article and keep a log of how much water your cat is drinking. 

On your log record any changes in your cat’s behavior or health. Ask, has your cat’s:

• Activity decreased?
• Appetite changed?
• Weight changed?
• Urine color changed?
• Amount of urine changed?
• Diet changed lately?
• Medication regimen changed?
• Behavior changed?

If your cat is consistently drinking more than 45 mL of water per pound of body weight each day, or if you notice any other signs such as decreased activity, increased appetite, and decreased weight you should bring your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

What to Expect at the Vet

Your veterinarian will examine your cat and ask many questions. Before you go, make sure you have answers to the questions above and record how much water your cat is drinking. This will help your vet get a more complete view of the situation.

Without running tests, your veterinarian is unlikely to be able to diagnose the exact cause of your cat’s excessive drinking. Bloodwork is a standard first step along with testing the urine, including a culture to look for infection. Oftentimes your veterinarian will recommend thyroid testing on the bloodwork as well.

These initial tests will almost always diagnose the issue. But if the tests don’t reveal an answer, your vet may recommend X-rays to look for pyometra (if your cat is an un-spayed female) or cancer. Your vet may perform other specific blood tests such as bile acids to assess liver function, fructosamine levels to evaluate for diabetes, leptospirosis testing, and various other hormone tests to help reach a conclusion.

The post Why is My Cat Drinking a Lot of Water? appeared first on Great Pet Care.

“An imbalance of unhealthy and healthy microbes in the intestines may contribute to weight problems, hormonal problems, overgrowth of bacteria or fungus anywhere in the body, mood issues, and low immunity, which is why supplementing with a high-quality probiotic may benefit your pet’s health,” says Dr. Sarah Wooten, a small animal veterinarian based in Colorado.

If you’re considering adding a probiotic to your cat’s routine, you’re not alone. Nearly 25 percent of respondents in a YouGov Analysis Institute survey said they turned to probiotics to support the well-being of their pets (1). In fact, the global pet probiotics market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7 percent during 2021 to 2028, according to a DataM Intelligence report (2).

Your cat may benefit from a probiotic if they have:

• Diarrhea
• Stomach gurgling
• Bad gas
• Trouble keeping weight on
• Anxiety

Probiotics can also be used to restore good gut bacteria after a cat is on a round of antibiotics. 

But Wooten warns, “Don’t give probiotics to any animals that are severely ill or have a compromised immune system.”

Best Probiotics for Cats: 3 Top Picks

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author. However, GreatPetCare may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Best Overall Probiotic for Cats

Our pick: Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Fortiflora

Fortiflora from Purina is one of the most widely recommended pet probiotics by veterinarians. You can use this liver-flavored powder on both kittens and adult cats who suffer from diarrhea and other digestive issues. Simply mix the packet into your cat’s food and this probiotic will go to work promoting normal intestinal microflora.

Highlights

• Enterococcus faecium probiotic is meant to restore the microflora balance in the cat’s intestines for better bowel movements. 
• Contains guaranteed amounts of live active cultures: 100 million CFUs (colony forming units) per gram
• Has nutritional additives, like proteins, vitamins, and minerals, to support overall health
• May help relieve stress, improve digestion, and strengthen immunity
• Comes in individual packets (30, 60, 90, or 180 count)

Things to Consider 

• Many reviewers indicated that their cats seem to love the flavor and taste, but other reviewers weren’t as lucky. It truly will depend on your individual cat’s taste buds
• If your cat has a medical condition or is taking medication, check with your veterinarian first
• Store in a cool, dry place

Best Cat Probiotic with a Prebiotic

Our pick: Nutramax Proviable Health Supplement for Cats and Dogs

This multi-strain probiotic also contains prebiotics, which are complex carbs that feed the good bacteria in the gut. Intended to help with tummy troubles brought on by stress or a change in diet, this probiotic can improve loose stool, decreased appetite, or vomiting. It boasts billions of live beneficial microorganisms per capsule.

Highlights

• Contains seven strains of beneficial bacteria with 5 billion CFUs of microorganisms per capsule
• Also provides prebiotic support
• This product can be used for both cats and dogs
• Available in 30, 60, 80, or 160 count

Things to Consider 

• Comes in capsule form, which a cat may easily spit out
• You can open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on food as a second option for administering. The powder inside is supposed to be flavorless/tasteless
• Store at room temperature and keep out of direct sunlight

Best Cat Probiotic Disguised as a Treat

Our pick: VetriScience Laboratories Probiotic Everyday for Cats

Packed with both prebiotics and probiotics, this bite-sized chew aims to support GI tract function and digestion in treat form. If your cat suffers from stomach issues or is/will be under stress, this product can help keep the issues at bay. And the best part is, this product is equipped with GanedenBC30, which is a patented strain of probiotic bacteria you can find in foods, drinks, and supplements. 

Highlights

• Contains 100 million CFUs per chew
• The fact that it’s in treat form should excite your feline friend
• Made in the USA
• Veterinarian recommended
• 60 bite-sized chews per bag

Things to Consider 

• Chews only seem to come in duck flavor, which may not appeal to all cats. Some pet parents had better success breaking them up and mixing them with food
• Store in cool, dry place

Probiotics for Cats: Buyer’s Guide

How Can Probiotics Help Cats?

As mentioned earlier, probiotics can support a cat’s overall digestive health, but studies suggest they may also help (3):

• Improve constipation and diarrhea symptoms
• Shorten amount of time until diarrhea resolves
• Benefit cats with chronic kidney disease (though specific benefits are unknown)
• Reduce kidney stones
• Improve blood sugar regulation in diabetics

Types of Probiotics for Cats

There are different types of probiotics for cats, and it’s important to discern what they are to find the right one for your pet’s specific needs. Some cat probiotics are meant for overall good digestive health, while others are for helping problematic digestion. Probiotics that are anti-inflammatory may help minimize a variety of illnesses and diseases related to the GI tract when given daily.

Beyond the types of problems these probiotics solve for, cat probiotics also come in different forms, such as:

• A supplement powder to add to food
• A capsule to give directly to cats (or break open and sprinkle on food)
• A chew to give like a treat
• Probiotic cat food

What to Look for In Cat Probiotics

According to Wooten, there are many pet foods that contain probiotics and prebiotics, but it’s always important to look for guarantees in labels. “There should be an indication on the label about what species and strains are included so that you can look up any efficacy studies that are associated with those strains,” she says. “Don’t use products that are formulated for humans, because humans and pets have their own unique gut flora.” 

Look for these parameters when picking the best probiotic for your cat:

Live cultures: When shopping for the right cat probiotic, consider ones that have living (not dead) bacteria. Some of these probiotics may need to be refrigerated because they have live cultures in them that need to maintain a proper temperature to avoid spoilage. 

High number of CFUs: You should also factor in the number of colony forming units (or bacteria) in your probiotics. The more bacteria, the better. 

Multi-strain formulas: In addition to the number of bacteria in your probiotic, it’s important to note that since you won’t know exactly what type of bacteria your cat needs for optimal gut health, a probiotic that has multiple strains of bacteria can be beneficial. A variety of strains on the ingredient list is a good thing.

Taste and flavor: Because we all know cats can be fickle, you’ll want to pick a probiotic with a taste that your cat would actually like. After all, if it is not a flavor your pet will eat, what good is it? And, as with a cat’s diet, you should definitely stay away from ingredients that your cat is allergic or sensitive to. 

Can Kittens Have Probiotics?

The short answer is, yes, kittens can have probiotics. In fact, kittens (as well as senior cats) can tend to get easily stressed out by certain situations, like when there’s major change in their lives. This can leave them vulnerable to stomach issues. A probiotic can help balance out that anxious cat. But, keep dosage in mind. You will obviously want to give kittens smaller amounts of a probiotic than an adult cat. By the same token, you’ll want to ease up how much you give a senior cat since they generally don’t eat as much. Read the probiotic labels or consult a vet to understand how much to give and how often. 

Precautions When Giving Cats Probiotics

As with many things that we give our pets, probiotics won’t work their magic overnight. Plan for your cat to get accustomed to their probiotics after two to several weeks to see any results. Results will also largely depend on the problem you’re treating if one exists. 

Some probiotics may also come with side effects, like gas or upset stomach. If your probiotic is making problems worse or creating new problems, definitely halt and reassess by talking to your vet. 

Plus, this goes for all products that aim to solve a problem in your feline friend. Probiotics are not suitable for every cat issue you’re having. While probiotics offer many benefits, you should always consult with your veterinarian to assess your cat’s digestive issues and beyond to understand the best treatment possible. For instance, if your cat is being treated for other ailments, their GI tract may be compromised and probiotics may not help at all.

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What Is Miliary Dermatitis in Cats?

Miliary dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation specific to cats that can be caused by many different things. It is common, and most cats with miliary dermatitis are easily treated. 

What Does Miliary Dermatitis Look Like?

The specific appearance of miliary dermatitis is a lot of small pink bumps on the skin, called papules, that are typically about one to two millimeters in diameter. If scratched, these papules develop a small crust.

Causes of Miliary Dermatitis in Cats

There are many potential causes of miliary dermatitis. The condition itself is not contagious, but the cause of miliary dermatitis in your cat might be.

Parasitic Causes of Miliary Dermatitis

• Flea or mosquito bite hypersensitivity. Even a single bite from a flea or mosquito can cause miliary dermatitis in your cat. 

• Demodex mites. Infestation with this mite can lead to itching, fur loss and redness of the skin. This mite is contagious between cats. Cheyletiella mites can also cause miliary dermatitis.

• Ear mites. These small mites, known as Otodectes cynotis, commonly cause ear infections but occasionally infest cats on other areas of the body.

• Scabies. Mites called Notoedres cati can bite cats and cause them to be very itchy. Scabies in cats is rare, but certain areas of the country, like southern California, can see this infection more often. 

Immune System Causes of Miliary Dermatitis

• Environmental allergies. An allergy to dust or pollen can cause itching and miliary dermatitis in cats.

• Food allergies. Some cats are allergic to foods that cause skin conditions like miliary dermatitis. Most cats are allergic to specific meat proteins, like chicken or beef.

• Pemphigus foliaceus. This autoimmune skin disorder causes a cat’s immune system to attack the skin, causing inflammation and yellow to brown crusts.

Infections that Cause Miliary Dermatitis

• Bacterial infections. Staphylococci infections (known as “staph infections”) cause papules and miliary dermatitis. These infections only occur when some underlying problem is causing inflammation in your cat’s skin.

• Ringworm (fungus). Microsporum canis infects individual hair roots, causing each hair follicle to become inflamed, resulting in ringworm.

Finally, while not technically a cause of miliary dermatitis, mast cell tumors can look just like it. Mast cell tumors are small growths on the skin caused by mast cells and require veterinary diagnosis and possibly surgery to treat.

Signs of Miliary Dermatitis in Cats

Miliary dermatitis is small bumps on your cat’s body in either one or many areas. Some cats with severe miliary dermatitis can have papules covering their whole body. Many times, cats will develop small crusts over each papule, which pet parents can feel when they pet their cats. Other common signs of miliary dermatitis include:

• Hair loss
• Itchiness
• Small superficial wounds due to intense scratching
• Scaliness to the skin
• Redness to the skin
• Redness and/or brown to black debris in the ears

Diagnosing Miliary Dermatitis in Cats

Physical examination by a veterinarian is required to diagnose miliary dermatitis. However, finding the cause is more complex. Several tests that may identify the cause include:

Skin scrape. Your veterinarian will gently scrape the very top layer of the skin on affected areas and look for mites under a microscope.

Cytology. Your veterinarian may use a swab to obtain a sample of what is found on the skin. After looking under a microscope, bacterial infections may be found.

Fungal culture. A sample for culture is obtained using a toothbrush to brush your cat’s entire body vigorously. Typically, it takes at least five to seven days for any fungus to grow, so you will have to wait for results.

Biopsy. If the dermatitis is severe and treatments are not helping, your cat will undergo anesthesia to have a small piece of skin removed. The skin is sent to a pathologist who examines the skin to diagnose the issue.

Allergy testing. If allergies are suspected, testing can be performed to identify what your cat is allergic to.

If no tests reveal the cause of your cat’s miliary dermatitis, your veterinarian may recommend trying multiple things to attempt to treat the underlying cause of the dermatitis, including a prescription diet to help with food allergies or pest control to prevent fleas and mosquitoes in your home and on your cat’s body.

Treatment of Miliary Dermatitis in Cats

Treatment of miliary dermatitis involves treating the cause of the issue. Common ways of treating miliary dermatitis include:

• Antibiotics
• Antifungals
• External parasite treatment
• Antihistamines
• Prescription diet for food allergies
• Steroids

Homeopathic Treatment Options

Omega-3 fatty acids are an essential part of skin health and are found in oils such as flaxseed or fish oil. These are highly unlikely to treat your cat’s miliary dermatitis, but may decrease the severity. Speak with your veterinarian before giving supplements to ensure you are giving your cat the correct dose.

Coconut oil is another source of omega-3 fatty acids and can decrease inflammation on your cat’s skin. A small amount may be rubbed between your hands then massaged onto your cat’s skin to create a very thin layer of coconut oil. Your cat can also drink a very small amount (think 1/8 to 1/4 of a teaspoon) by mouth once daily. However, coconut oil is high in fat and can upset your cat’s stomach. Speak to your veterinarian before giving your cat coconut oil.

General Cost of Treatment

The cost of treatment is fairly low for most cats and involves a veterinary examination, flea preventives, minor skin testing and some medications by mouth such as antibiotics. Typically, you can expect to spend between $200 to $400 treating miliary dermatitis.

In some cats, chronic issues that cause miliary dermatitis, such as allergies, will cost more over time and vary significantly based on what medications and prescription food are required to get the issue under control.

How to Prevent Miliary Dermatitis in Cats

Miliary dermatitis that is caused by parasites can be prevented by keeping cats indoors and applying flea preventives year-round. 

Choosing a preventive that kills mites as well is best. Ringworm and mites can be prevented by not allowing your cat to interact with other cats who may be infected. Otherwise, the rest of the causes of miliary dermatitis are not preventable.

Related Conditions 

• Cheyletiellosis (walking dandruff)
• Demodectic mange
• Allergies (environmental and food)
• Flea-bite hypersensitivity
• Mast cell tumor
• Mosquito-bite hypersensitivity
• Otodectic mange
• Pemphigus foliaceus
• Pyoderma (bacterial skin infection)
• Ringworm (fungal skin infection)
• Scabies (sarcoptic mange)

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It turns out our feline friends are just as susceptible to a flea infestation as all those animals that came before. But how do you identify fleas on cats? And what should you do if you find them?

Fleas on Cats: What Do They Look Like?

Fleas are very small dark brown bugs that are 1.5 to 4 mm in length. From side to side, flea bodies are very compact and flat. No wings are needed for fleas’ incredible ability to jump. Often, these bugs move so fast and are so small that they are hard to find. 

Using a fine-toothed comb (or a flea comb) across the body of your cat would be the best way to attempt to find live fleas. You’ll see the small bugs briefly before they jump away! However, the most common way you’ll know if your cat has fleas: flea dirt.

Flea Dirt on Cats

Fleas suck up the blood of your cat. Then, when they poop, it comes out as a brown-black color. Flea dirt is essentially flea poop! It can be found on your cat’s skin as brown-black specks. If you find some, use a fine-toothed comb and collect some of the specks with your cat’s fur. Place this debris on a wet paper towel. If the specks create brown-red smears, it is flea dirt. This is a sign that your cat has fleas. 

Flea Eggs on Cats

Flea eggs are white and less than 1 mm long! Because they are so small, it is very challenging to see them. If you have a way of zooming in, flea eggs on cats can be found on individual strands of fur. However, most of the eggs are never found because they are so small and cats lick and groom themselves a lot. All in all, flea eggs are very challenging to see.

Flea Bites on Cats

Flea bites cannot be seen by the naked eye. However, fleas can create itchiness and inflammation in your cat’s skin that you can see, known as dermatitis. Some cats are actually allergic to the saliva of fleas, so even one bite from one flea can cause an allergic reaction in their skin. If you see redness on your cat’s skin and your cat appears itchy or uncomfortable, it could be a sign of fleas. 

Other Signs of Fleas on Cats

Even if you don’t see physical evidence of fleas on your cat, that doesn’t mean they aren’t present. Here are some other signs that your cat could have fleas.

Dermatitis

As mentioned above, flea bites can cause dermatitis, an allergic reaction that causes itching and redness on a cat’s skin. The most common symptoms are many tiny crusts on the skin all around your cat’s neck and shoulders, and possibly near the base of the tail. Other symptoms can include red skin, fur loss, obvious itchiness, or crust. Typically, the skin around the neck, shoulders or base of the tail are affected the most.

Excessive Itching

Many cats hide that they are itchy, but when they are really itchy, pet parents tend to take notice. Cats love to groom and lick, but you may see your cat very suddenly turn her head and begin feverishly biting and licking at her back or other areas. When you pet your cat, she may begin to lick, scratch, or thump her back leg as if to scratch. 

Fur Loss

Itching can cause loss of fur, so you may find clumps of fur from your cat laying on the ground.

Flea Dirt in the Home 

In the environment, it is very hard to see fleas. The most common places fleas live on are pet beds and high traffic areas, meaning wherever your pets–or you–go the most in your home, that’s where the fleas are. Look for flea dirt on pet bedding and areas where your cat spends most of their time.

Human Symptoms

Pet parents may also experience symptoms of fleas! Small red bumps, especially on your legs and feet, as well as itchiness may be signs of flea bites. Once the fleas are gone, these symptoms typically go away quickly. But if you notice flea symptoms on your own body, it’s a good idea to inspect your cat, since flea infestations can spread quickly. 

How to Get Rid of Fleas on Cats

Treating fleas on cats requires a multistep approach. Follow these steps to kill fleas on cats and get rid of them in your environment.

Use a Flea Treatment That Kills and Prevents

The most important way of getting rid of fleas on cats is to give them a flea treatment that is also a preventive (i.e. prevents fleas from jumping on your cat). There are many excellent flea prevention products on the market that also kill live fleas, and your veterinarian can recommend specific brands. 

Be very cautious that you do not accidentally purchase flea preventives meant for dogs—this is deadly in cats. 

Flea baths for cats are not generally recommended. Most cats do not like baths, but more importantly, flea baths will only kill the fleas currently on your cat—they do not prevent fleas from jumping right back on minutes later. 

Treat Other Pets 

Any pets in your home—including dogs, rabbits, and other cats—must be treated for fleas as well! If one of your cats has fleas, all your pets have fleas. You cannot get rid of fleas unless ALL pets are treated. However, fish, reptiles (e.g., snakes and lizards) and amphibians (e.g., frogs) do not require treatment.

Thoroughly Clean and Treat Your Home

Environmental clean-up and treatment are key to getting rid of fleas on cats. All bedding that your cat has access to must be thoroughly washed on hot and dried on hot. Daily thorough vacuuming of all carpet as well as the nooks and crannies of fabric furniture and wood floors may decrease the number of fleas (just don’t forget to empty the vacuum container right away!). 

Realistically, calling a pest control to treat your house for fleas is the absolute best way to keep your cat and your home environment flea free. You and your kitty will need to leave the house for a few hours while they use chemicals to kill fleas.

How to Prevent Fleas on Cats

The most important thing any pet parent can do to prevent fleas is to apply a veterinary approved flea prevention product every month. Talk to your veterinary clinic or hospital about products they recommend. 

Flea medications come in a variety of forms, including:

• Liquid medication. There are liquids that go onto the skin of your cat that should be applied on the back of her head to keep her from licking it. The liquid will absorb over a few hours, protecting the whole body. 

• Oral medication. There are also medications you can give by mouth for flea prevention, but some pet parents find this difficult to do for their cats. 

• Collars. Cat flea collars are generally not recommended, as they only prevent fleas a short distance from the collar—meaning your cat could have fleas biting their tail and back legs even when wearing a flea collar.

Preventing fleas includes keeping your cats strictly indoors—no adventures on the patio, even if it’s enclosed. However, many pet parents give their cat some fresh air on a harness or the patio. As long as flea prevention is applied every month, this should prevent fleas. 

Don’t allow your cat to meet wildlife or other animals, since fleas as well as many other parasites could be spread to her through contact.

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Chocolate is a known toxin to cats and other pets, but is it possible for cats to have chocolate in super small quantities? 

Can Cats Eat Chocolate?

Yes, cats can eat very small amounts of chocolate without experiencing harmful side effects. However, that doesn’t mean they should. Chocolate is generally bad for cats. Once a cat eats more than just a small amount of chocolate, serious side effects can occur, and cats can die from eating chocolate.

Chocolate is poisonous to cats because it contains a compound called theobromine (which acts as a diuretic and heart stimulator) and caffeine. Each kind of chocolate has varying amounts of these compounds. The darker the chocolate, the higher the amount of theobromine and caffeine. Since most chocolate has much higher amounts of theobromine than caffeine, veterinarians usually calculate how poisonous the chocolate will be to cats based on levels of theobromine. 

Nutritionally, chocolate has no value to cats and should not be a regular part of any cat’s diet.

Can Cats Eat Chocolate Ice Cream?

In small quantities, a few quick licks of chocolate ice cream should not cause harmful side effects. And in theory, a cat would probably be more curious about your ice cream than a piece of chocolate since cats are typically drawn to dairy products over sweets.

Chocolate ice cream often contains several kinds of chocolate. For example, recipes may include unsweetened cocoa powder as well as semisweet chocolate. If a cat eats more than two or three tablespoons of chocolate ice cream, they are likely to experience side effects from the chocolate.

Compared to eating a piece of chocolate, chocolate ice cream is much less toxic to cats since the chocolate is diluted with the other ingredients such as cream and eggs. 

That said, some cats are lactose intolerant or sensitive to milk products, so even a small amount of ice cream may cause stomach upset regardless of the chocolate flavoring.

Can Cats Eat White Chocolate?

Yes, cats can eat white chocolate. White chocolate contains very low amounts of harmful theobromine and caffeine. As far as chocolate toxicity goes, you could feed your cat pounds of white chocolate before seeing side effects. But as expected, white chocolate contains high levels of sugar that are very unhealthy for your cat. And feeding anyone lots of white chocolate will cause an upset stomach.

While your cat is much less likely to eat so much white chocolate that he experiences serious side effects, a diet high in sugar is likely to lead to obesity and possibly other health issues, like diabetes mellitus. 

It’s important to avoid sugary foods in your cat’s diet, but know that a tiny bite of white chocolate won’t hurt them.

Cats and Chocolate: Understanding the Risks

Symptoms of chocolate poisoning in cats begin about 6 to 12 hours after they eat chocolate. Mild signs may include increased thirst, bloating so the belly appears more rounded, vomiting, diarrhea and restlessness.

If your cat ate enough chocolate to cause more serious symptoms, these symptoms will be initially mild then progress or worsen. Serious symptoms of chocolate toxicity in cats can include:

• Hyperactive behavior
• Difficulty walking
• Tremors that cause twitching or uncontrollable shaking
• Seizures
• High blood pressure
• Elevated heart and breathing rate
• Elevated temperature
• Coma which can lead to death

Cats that weigh approximately 8 pounds will have chocolate poisoning symptoms after eating the following amounts of different types of chocolate:

• 1.25 ounces of milk chocolate (example: ¾ of a regular-sized Hershey’s bar)
• 0.5 ounces of chocolate chips (1 tablespoon)
• 0.2 ounces of unsweetened baker’s chocolate (1 teaspoon)
• 0.1 ounces of dry cocoa powder (1/2 teaspoon)

These amounts are an approximation, and every cat is unique. If your cat eats twice the amount of any chocolate listed above, they will likely experience severe side effects. Baked goods can also lead to symptoms of chocolate toxicity, and it can be challenging to know how much chocolate is in each baked good.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats Chocolate

If your cat eats chocolate and it is more than a single bite of a baked good or a couple licks of ice cream, you should either call a veterinarian or an animal poison control hotline immediately. They will help determine if the amount of chocolate requires monitoring at home or emergency treatment. 

Be sure to do your best to quantify how much chocolate and the exact kind of chocolate your cat ate. Look at the recipe or the container if it was a baked good. Call as soon as possible, as a veterinarian can help your cat vomit up the harmful chocolate but only up to three hours after the chocolate was eaten.

Unfortunately, there is no safe way to get a cat to vomit at home or treat chocolate toxicity’s harmful symptoms. While many dog parents have probably heard of hydrogen peroxide as a way to get dogs to vomit, this is not an option for cats.

If your cat is showing symptoms of chocolate toxicity of any kind, you should bring him to an emergency clinic right away. Symptoms can continue to worsen, and he will need care as soon as possible.

How to Prevent Your Cat from Eating Chocolate

Many of us enjoy baking, or at least eating freshly baked goods that someone else made, so it is common to wonder how to keep your cat from eating chocolate. Be sure to cover all baked goods or sweets left on counters with something a cat cannot get through (cats can easily remove plastic wrap or tin foil). And thoroughly rinse off and clean up dishes used to make baked goods.

Some cats are excellent at opening cupboards or even certain doors. Child-proofing mechanisms to keep cupboards and doors shut are useful in preventing cats from breaking into cabinets, too. 

And if your kids are having a tasty treat that could be harmful to your cat, let your child know not to share. As most kids accidentally “share” with pets by dropping food, it might be best to distract your cat or even put them in a different room temporarily while your child finishes that tasty treat.

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Any change in your kitty’s behavior can be alarming, and you will want to know: when should I be concerned, and when should I reach out to my veterinarian? Here we describe when cat head bobbing is normal, the many causes, and when to talk to your veterinarian.

Cat Head Bobbing: Is It Normal? 

Head bobbing is normal when cats are very sleepy and are about to fall asleep. When cats are fighting sleep, they can sometimes bob their head as they begin to fall asleep but aren’t quite there yet! If your cat only experiences head bobbing when they are trying to sleep, and the bob is very subtle, this is likely not a cause for concern.

Also, blind cats may have a subtle head bob as they explore new surroundings—when their whiskers touch something, they may move their head back in an exaggerated way because they cannot see, and then immediately approach something again. This is a normal way of exploring new things.

However, cat head bobbing in other circumstances is rarely normal and almost always indicates other issues. Head bobbing can be very subtle or very obvious. Usually other symptoms are there too—like twitching of other parts of the body, increased urination or thirst, changes in your kitty’s fur coat, or changes in the way your cat walks.

Causes of Cat Head Bobbing

There are many potential causes of head bobbing in cats. These include:

• Ear infections
• Brain inflammation or structural issues
• Metabolic disease
• Seizures
• Skin Disease
• Mouth Pain
• Feline Hyperesthesia
• Anesthesia

Cat head bobbing is often accompanied by other symptoms as well. Noting the other symptoms, along with the head bobbing, can help your veterinarian figure out what is wrong.

Ear Infections

When cats develop ear infections, they often have inflammation of the inner or middle ear as well as the outer ear. The inner inflammation affects a nerve that connects to the brainstem (central brain) and can result in head bobbing. 

Usually other symptoms of ear infections in cats include:

• Discharge of one or both ears
• Redness of one or both ears
• Scratching of the ear when rubbed, or vocalizing as if in pain
• Walking in circles
• Constantly tilting the head to one side
• Stumbling a little during walking

Ear infections are frequently treated with medication externally in the ear, as well as antibiotics and possibly steroids to decrease inflammation. Deep ear infections can take 1 to 2 months to resolve.

Brain Inflammation or Structural Issues

The brain contains the cerebellum, which controls movements of your cat’s body. When the cerebellum is affected by inflammation of any kind, head bobbing or tremors will likely be seen. The rest of the brain, called the cerebrum, doesn’t control movements quite the same way as the cerebellum. However, inflammation in this area of the brain can affect a variety of neurons, or electrical connections, that affect your cat’s behavior and reactions.

There are a multitude of conditions that can cause inflammation in the brain and lead to head bobbing. 

Examples include:

• Congenital conditions (born with a slightly different brain structure)

• Hydrocephalus (fluid buildup occurs in the center of the cerebrum, causing the brain to bulge, affecting the cerebellum and cerebrum)

• Trauma (any accident that affects the head)

• Vascular incident (stroke). This can occur secondary to trauma, systemic (full body) disease or congenital issue like an abnormal vessel in the brain.

• Cancer. This is much more common in senior cats. Cancer that affects the brain usually starts in the brain itself, not spread to the brain from other parts of the body.

• Infection. Infections can be caused by bacteria, parasites, viruses, or fungi.

• Bacteria. Any systemic issue could cause a bacterial infection to spread to the brain, but it is rare. This may occur with severe inner ear infections.

• Parasites: infection with Toxoplasma gondii or the spread of parasites to the brain such as Cuterebra spp. from the skin or Dirofilaria immitis from the blood.

• Viruses: Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) can be direct causes or secondary causes since these viruses affect many areas of the body. Feline panleukopenia virus can infect mother cats and their unborn kittens. When this occurs, kittens are born with abnormal cerebellums. Rabies virus is rare in the United States but does occur months after bites from wildlife.

• Fungal infections. Cryptococcus neoformans, Blastomyces dermatitidis, Histoplasma capsulatum, Coccidioides spp., Aspergillus spp. and Candida spp. are fungi that could affect a cat’s brain. The most common is Cryptococcus, although in general fungal infection of the brain is rare.

• Inflammatory disease. Meningitis or meningoencephalitis refer to inflammation of the brain or the outer layer of the brain and spinal cord. Infection (as listed above) or your cat’s immune system can cause this inflammation.

• Degenerative conditions. Rarely, certain cells in a cat’s brain will prematurely degenerate (breakdown) and stop functioning

When your cat’s brain is affected, there will typically be other neurologic symptoms that occur along with the head bobbing, such as: 

• Walking in circles
• Stumbling during walking
• Change in consciousness. Seems “spaced out” or less aware of his surroundings.
• Increased aggression or increased passiveness
• Change in size of the pupil (black central part of the eye) – bigger or smaller than usual, and may not change in the dark or bright light
• Abnormal movement of the eyes, almost like twitching of the pupil, when not looking around
• Seizures
• Twitching or pain of any part of the body
• Decreased activity and/or appetite

Treatment of these conditions varies widely depending on the cause. Infections are treated with specific medications and usually take a few months to resolve. Trauma and vascular incidents are usually treated with supportive care to keep your cat feeling generally healthy while allowing your cat’s body time to heal. Inflammatory or degenerative disease may be treated with medications that decrease the overactive immune system and are lifelong. There are not many treatment options for cancer, but it depends on which type of cancer your cat has.

Metabolic Disease

There are many causes of systemic (i.e. full body) illness that can lead to head bobbing in cats, whether it affects the brain directly or not. This occurs with any imbalance of electrolytes (key elements in the body like sodium or potassium), blood sugar, or insulin. These imbalances affect nerves and muscles. 

Examples of metabolic disease in cats include:

• Chronic kidney disease
• Diabetes mellitus
• Liver disease like portosystemic shunts
• Hyperthyroidism
• Dietary insufficiency (i.e. lack of thiamine)
• Hypertension i.e. high blood pressure
• Congenital myasthenia gravis (in Sphynx and Devon Rex breeds only)

Cats often have other symptoms of illness when they have metabolic disease, including:

• Increased urination and thirst
• Decreased or increased appetite
• Decrease in weight
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea

Treatment varies depending on the condition. Some conditions such as diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, and hypertension are treated with specific lifelong medications. Chronic kidney disease typically involves special diets, hydration, and supplements to support your kitty for the rest of his life. Liver disease may require supportive care and supplements or possibly surgery if a shunt is present, and the condition is lifelong. Dietary insufficiency will resolve within weeks once your cat’s thiamine has been supplemented and his diet has been improved.

Seizures

In general, seizures can be due to the causes listed above or they can be idiopathic, meaning no known cause can be found. Only about 2 percent of cats are diagnosed with seizures [1]. Epilepsy, seizures of unknown origin that happen with some frequency, occurs in 1 in 3 cats diagnosed with seizures and typically begins between the ages of 1 and 4 years old.

Focal seizures are when only part of a cat’s body has abnormal movements or twitches, such as certain limbs, eyelids, or parts of the face. Many times, cats do not lose consciousness during these seizures. Head bobbing can be classified as a focal seizure, but not always.

Generalized seizures are when a cat loses consciousness, and their entire body dramatically twitches and moves for seconds to minutes. Head bobbing can be a neurologic symptom that eventually progresses to generalized seizures.

If there is a specific underlying cause of the seizures, treatment is dependent on the cause. If no cause is known, seizures are often treated with lifelong anti-seizure medications. If seizures are very frequent and uncontrolled, it can cause life threatening damage to the brain over time.

Skin Disease

When cats experience itchiness, it can look like head bobbing due to overstimulated nerves. Cats often hide when scratching or grooming themselves, so knowing your cat is itchy is challenging. 

Symptoms include:

• Change in fur coat especially fur loss or shortened fur
• Scaly skin
• Redness to skin
• Oily or bad smelling fur

Treatment involves addressing the underlying inflammation and infections, and frequently includes a special diet.       

Mouth Pain

Cats with severe dental problems can be seen head bobbing due to pain and overstimulated nerves in the mouth. Even cats with apparently normal looking teeth can have painful dental issues hidden under the surface that can only be diagnosed with X-rays. 

Other symptoms of mouth pain in cats include:

• Foul breath
• Discoloration of teeth i.e. brown or gray teeth
• Severe redness of the gums or other tissue in the mouth
• Excessive drooling
• Pawing at the mouth
• Vocalizing when eating
• Preference to eat only soft (canned) food
• Decreased appetite

Treatment involves a dental procedure under anesthesia at a veterinary clinic.

Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome

This is a complex behavior disorder that is triggered by fleas, stress, seizures, pain, or brain inflammation. Cats with this syndrome have overactive nerves, which results in twitching or head bobbing as well as many changes to behavior, including when brushing or petting your cat. Treatment is highly variable depending on cause, but often includes medications given lifelong to help your cat’s behavior.

Anesthesia

If your veterinarian had to anesthetize your cat (i.e. give medications to make your cat sleep while undergoing a medical procedure), he/she may have used ketamine. In rare cases for unknown reasons, cats begin head bobbing afterward but this should resolve completely within 48 hours.

When to Call Your Veterinarian 

If you notice head bobbing in your cat that is not when your cat is falling asleep, take a video of the behavior and call your veterinarian right away. 

If it occurs while your cat is falling asleep, monitor your cat closely for an increase in how often it occurs or if it becomes more dramatic. If frequency increases or it becomes more dramatic, a call to your veterinarian is recommended.

Be prepared to answer your veterinarian’s questions that may target specific causes. Questions may include:

• What if any other symptoms or changes you have noticed in your cat?

• Does your cat have a history of trauma?

• Did your cat eat anything toxic, such as human foods with xylitol, household cleaners, rodent poison, or antifreeze?

• Was your cat recently anesthetized at another clinic?

• What does your cat eat? Is it a well-balanced diet sold at pet stores, or do you make your cat’s food? (Home cooked diets are much more likely to cause issues.)

Your veterinarian will need to perform a wide variety of tests to rule out causes for the head bobbing. These may include:

• Bloodwork including complete blood count (CBC), chemistry and thyroid levels
• Urine testing, i.e. urinalysis and possibly culture
• Blood pressure
• FeLV and FIV testing

If these tests do not demonstrate anything, more advanced testing may be recommended including:

• Parasite testing (Toxoplasma, Cryptococcus, Dirofilaria)
• X-rays
• Advanced imaging with a neurologist such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Cats may bob their head for a variety of reasons, and some can be serious issues that need veterinary intervention. By paying close attention to additional symptoms, your vet can start your cat on a treatment or management plan to address the cause of the head bobbing behavior. 

The post Cat Head Bobbing: Why It Happens appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Metronidazole is an antibiotic as well as an antiprotozoal that can be used to treat a variety of parasite infections like giardia. 

If you look up metronidazole on the internet, you may be surprised to read that this medication can also be quite toxic. Keep reading to understand what metronidazole is used for and how you can use it safely and effectively to treat your cat.  

What is Metronidazole?

Metronidazole was created in a laboratory in France in 1959, where it was originally intended to be used to kill certain parasites known as protozoa. But it was soon discovered to be effective in killing bacteria, as well, making it one of the few medications with both antibiotic and antiprotozal properties. 

Metronidazole became widely used in the 1970s and is now available in a variety of forms, both as a generic medication, as well as under the brand name Flagyl.

Metronidazole is approved by the FDA for human use in the United States, but it is not FDA approved for use in dogs and cats. However, other countries have approved metronidazole for cats and a variety of other species. 

It has been used in animals for decades and is a very commonly prescribed medication by veterinarians. Metronidazole is available across the United States at any veterinary clinic. 

What Does Metronidazole Look Like?

Most veterinarians will prescribe the generic metronidazole for cats in 250 mg and 500 mg tablets. The appearance of the medication varies by manufacturer, but the tablets are generally circular or oval and white with letters and numbers stamped on them, depending on the size. The liquid form is available in many colors but is usually off-white to tan. 

The name-brand capsules are green and gray. Many name-brand manufacturers produce tablets that are yellow or orange in color. Topical forms of metronidazole are typically white to off-white and come in a variety of consistencies, but are more commonly prescribed for human use only. 

How Does Metronidazole Work?

Metronidazole is called a nitroimidazole antibacterial and antiprotozoal because of the complicated way that it kills bacteria and protozoa. Metronidazole only works in anaerobic cells, meaning cells of bacteria and protozoa that do not require oxygen. 

There are many bacteria and protozoa that live in cats’ guts or gastrointestinal tracts that do not require oxygen, making them susceptible to the effects of metronidazole. Other types of bacteria that require oxygen, commonly found in the nose, throat, and lungs, would not be killed effectively by metronidazole.

After a cat is given metronidazole, the medication is absorbed into tissues and organs throughout the cat’s body. Bacteria or protozoa ingest the metronidazole and metabolize it or break it down. At this point, metronidazole transforms into free radicals, unstable substances that destroy DNA (genetic material). The free radicals target the bacterial or protozoal DNA, effectively killing them. After a very short time, the free radicals break down even further into harmless substances. 

For cats with giardia, this medication also decreases the parasite’s ability to breathe.

What Is Metronidazole Used for in Cats?

The most common reason a veterinarian might prescribe metronidazole for your cat is to treat issues in the gut, such as bacterial imbalance or parasites. 

Typically, it will be prescribed if your cat has a severe case of diarrhea — such as one characterized by unformed or liquid stool, inability to make it to the litter box, and/or chronic diarrhea that has not responded to other treatments. If fecal (poop) samples are tested and indicate the presence of certain parasites such as Giardia spp., your veterinarian will likely treat these with metronidazole. 

 Specifically in cats, metronidazole is often prescribed for:

• Inflammatory bowel disease or chronic inflammation of the gut.
• Hepatic encephalopathy, which is when the liver is unable to process toxins in the blood and these toxins go into the brain, causing neurologic symptoms.
• Helicobacter spp., bacteria in the stomach which may cause stomach ulcers, vomiting, and inflammation.
• Periodontal (dental) infections, including gingivitis and stomatitis (inflammation of the whole mouth). 

Metronidazole Side Effects in Cats

The vast majority of cats tolerate this medication very well, though some mild side effects may occur. 

Side effects involving the gut may include:

• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Increased salivation
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss

These types of symptoms are easily managed if metronidazole is an essential part of your cat’s treatment plan. However, in some cases, higher doses of metronidazole or longer courses of treatment can cause toxicosis, or toxic side effects. So it is important for pet parents to know how to recognize it and what to do about it.

Doses of metronidazole over 25 mg/kg twice daily and treatment plans lasting 6 months or more have been associated with toxicity. Toxicosis typically causes neurologic symptoms (i.e., symptoms related to the brain and other nerves). Symptoms of toxicosis in cats include:

• Weakness, (i.e., your cat cannot stand, walk or jump as usual)
• Ataxia or “drunken walk”
• Change in behavior and awareness of surroundings
• Blindness or inability to see
• Nystagmus or unusual movement of the pupils of your cat’s eyes
• Seizures

If any of these symptoms occur while giving your cat metronidazole, stop giving the medication and immediately bring your cat to a veterinary hospital. Usually, these symptoms will go away but it may take weeks to months. Depending on how severe the symptoms are, your cat may need extra care while recovering.

Other very rare side effects of metronidazole include inflammation in the mouth, inflammation of the liver, decreased immune system response, change in urine color, and yeast infection in the gut.

Reactions With Other Drugs and Medications

There are a few specific medications that interact with metronidazole:

• Cimetidine – metronidazole will leave the body slower, which increases risk of toxicity
• Cyclosporine – increases the risk of toxic effects by cyclosporine on kidneys
• Phenobarbital – metronidazole will leave the body more quickly, becoming less effective
• Warfarin – metronidazole will leave the body more quickly, becoming less effective; may also increase warfarin’s potency

If your cat is taking any of the above medications, make sure to speak to your veterinarian before giving your cat metronidazole. 

Metronidazole Dosage for Cats

Typically, metronidazole is administered to cats orally (by mouth) or intravenously (injected into the bloodstream). Metronidazole is typically given twice daily or every 12 hours, but in certain circumstances, your veterinarian may prescribe it every 24 hours.

The dosing amount your veterinarian prescribes depends on what your cat is being treated for as well as factors such as age, other medications, and weight. For example, very young kittens typically receive lower doses. Obese cats may be prescribed lower doses since they have excess fat. It is critical to follow your veterinarian’s prescribed dosage exactly, as this medication can cause toxic effects if not. 

Liquid metronidazole dosing varies based on concentration, or how many milligrams (mg) per milliliter (mL). Topicals are rarely if ever used in cats, and a specialist would choose a unique dose for your kitty.

Metronidazole doses should not be given any sooner than 8 hours apart. If you are finding that your schedule does not allow for dosing your cat approximately every 12 hours, speak with your veterinarian right away to avoid risks of toxicity.

What if My Cat Misses a Dose of Metronidazole?

If you realize you’ve missed giving your cat a dose of metronidazole, it is better to skip that dose entirely, rather than give it late. This will avoid any potential toxicity from taking too much metronidazole too close together.

Cost of Metronidazole for Cats

Metronidazole is inexpensive if using generic formulations. For example, 250 mg tablets generally cost less than 25 cents each. Most pet parents will spend less than $10 for a short-term prescription of tablets. Liquid pricing depends on the brand or compounded formulation, meaning it is specially made into a different concentration to be easier to prescribe to cats. Pet parents should expect to spend less than $20 for a short-term prescription of liquid metronidazole.

Brand name metronidazole will cost considerably more, but this is infrequently used in cats as the size of tablets or capsules cannot be given to cats due to being too high of a dose.

Metronidazole Storage Instructions

Metronidazole should be stored at room temperature (approximately 68-77 degrees) and kept in a container that is light-resistant (i.e., a container that you cannot see through). If metronidazole liquid was compounded for your cat it may need refrigeration. Speak with your veterinary clinic if unsure.

The post Metronidazole for Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Even more exasperating is that these symptoms in cats can linger for months and come back when kitty is stressed. For many years, L-lysine has been offered as a long-term solution to preventing these symptoms—often due to feline herpesvirus—and supporting the immune system. 

But is it really the effective remedy we’ve been looking for? Even if it is not known to be really effective, will it harm your kitty if you try it?

What Is L-lysine?

L-lysine is an amino acid nutritional supplement. Amino acids are an essential part of life as the building blocks for all the proteins in the body. Different animals require different types and amounts of amino acids.

Nutritional supplements are meant to increase intake of particular amino acids, vitamins, minerals, or other substances that support health that are not readily available in the diet. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate nutritional supplements. This means the products are not evaluated for safety or efficacy (i.e. how effective they are). 

Because of this, asking your veterinarian for suggestions as to which products to buy is very important. Veterinarians will know the highest quality brands to purchase and be able to determine if certain nutritional supplements are not recommended for your cat.

L-lysine can be purchased online, in pet stores, and at veterinary clinics throughout the United States. It does not require a prescription or specialist. Many companies make the supplement for both humans and cats, and it is available through compounding pharmacies as well.

What Does L-lysine Look Like?

The veterinary forms of L-lysine for cats come in many forms including:

• Chews
• Powders
• Gels and pastes
• Liquids
• Tablets 

Chews are a popular option and are typically small, brown, and more firm than soft treats. 

Powder is white to off-white and typically comes with a small scoop for ease of dosing. 

Gel or paste is offered, typically brown in color, that cats can lick or eat as a treat. 

Powder, gel or pastes can be easily mixed into a small amount of food that your kitty likes to eat. 

Some companies put L-lysine into a liquid, although this is usually accompanied by additional supplements as well. 

Tablets are available from human pharmaceuticals and are typically large oval-shaped tablets of white to off-white color.

How Does L-lysine for Cats Work?

Arginine, an amino acid found naturally in the body, is essential to some viruses when replicating (i.e. creating more virus) including herpesviruses. L-lysine is supposed to stimulate an enzyme in the liver that breaks down arginine. 

The theory is that when high levels of L-lysine are consumed, the body secretes the enzyme that breaks down arginine. With less arginine, feline herpesvirus should not be able to make as much virus and your cat should feel better. The full effect of L-lysine supplementation takes a few weeks before pet parents can expect results.

What Is L-lysine Used for in Cats?

Typically, veterinarians recommend L-lysine for cats with symptoms of upper respiratory infections. Symptoms of upper respiratory infections include:

• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion (stuffiness, so that you can hear your cat breathing)
• Runny eyes or nose (can be watery or yellow-green discharge)
• Red, puffy eyes

Most cats with upper respiratory symptoms have feline herpesvirus. This particular virus causes symptoms off and on for life, waxing and waning during times of stress such as moving, vacations, or after other illnesses or procedures such as surgery. 

The goal of L-lysine is to decrease symptoms and prevent flare-ups over time, not as a short-term treatment.

L-lysine for Cats: What Does Research Show?

A lot of research has been done involving L-lysine and has mostly shown L-lysine to have no effect on the health and wellbeing of cats. Veterinarians are now more reluctant to recommend this supplement, although generally L-lysine is not harmful to most cats. 

Multiple studies have demonstrated that when given in food, lysine was found to be ineffective in preventing disease [1] [2]. In one such study, the cats receiving lysine experienced worse symptoms and higher levels of feline herpesvirus when tested [1].

A review of multiple studies performed both in cats and in humans concluded that lysine is not effective against herpesviruses in general [3]. The theory that lysine decreases arginine is shown to be false in several studies. There is no evidence that low levels of arginine in the body stop herpesvirus from producing more virus or that increased L-lysine supplementation decreases herpesvirus. After decades of research, it would appear lysine is not an effective treatment for feline herpesvirus after all.

L-lysine Side Effects in Cats

Side effects are uncommon with L-lysine. Cats that eat too much L-lysine may experience gastrointestinal side effects including:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

If your cat starts taking an L-lysine supplement and begins experiencing these symptoms, call your veterinarian and double check the recommended dosing on the label. If your cat eats more L-lysine than should be given in one dose at any time, call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline right away.

For very large doses of L-lysine, cats with severe kidney or liver disease may have trouble breaking down the end-products of L-lysine (substances created after breaking down L-lysine). L-lysine increases the absorption of calcium which can be an issue in some cats with metabolic disease. 

None of these issues are a concern, however, if L-lysine is given at the dose generally recommended in cats.

Reactions With Other Drugs and Medications

L-lysine is not known to react with any other drugs or medications. In animals receiving doses of L-lysine much higher (i.e. 10 times) than the recommended dosing, aminoglycoside medications can be more toxic when given with L-lysine. 

Examples of aminoglycoside medication include gentamicin or amikacin.

L-lysine Dosages for Cats

Dosing of L-lysine for cats is generally 250 mg to 500 mg once or twice per day. Kittens and smaller adult cats should tend towards the lower dose, while larger adult cats are usually fine receiving the higher dose. There is no specific dose based on weight. 

Speak with your veterinarian for dosing guidance, and always follow the instructions on the supplement’s container unless your veterinarian advises otherwise.

What if My Cat Misses a Dose of L-lysine?

If your cat misses a dose of L-lysine, give the dose as soon as you remember. If you remember the missed dose within a few hours of the next dose, it is fine to skip the dose you missed and give the next dose at the regular time.

Cost of L-lysine for Cats

Per month, L-lysine for cats generally costs $5 to $20. Powder tends to be the cheapest form, while chews and some pastes are more expensive.

L-lysine Storage Instructions

 L-lysine should be stored tightly sealed in its original container at room temperature.

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Is it OK for Cats to Eat Celery?

Yes, cats can eat celery! However, celery cannot replace a well-balanced diet. Pet parents should consider celery an additional treat rather than a significant part of a cat’s routine diet. As obligate carnivores, meat-based diets for cats are a must. Without meat and a whole host of vitamins and minerals in the correct proportions, cats can become seriously ill. 

But as long as you serve up celery in the correct proportion to a nutritionally balanced diet, it’s fine to share this veggie with your cat.

Celery grows in marshlands all over the world in the form of a long narrow stalk that tapers into leaves. From this comes a narrow stem that flowers and produces seeds. These small, fragrant celery seeds are used as a cooking spice as well as a component of Eastern medicine. People tend to eat the stalk, leaves, and seeds—essentially the entire plant, minus the roots.

Is Celery Good for Cats?

Celery in moderation is good for cats. For one, it contains compounds called apigenin and luteolin—antioxidants that lower inflammation (1) and are used frequently in Eastern medicine. The compounds in celery have been suggested as a possible treatment for cancer, based on how they interact with cells (2, 3).

Celery seeds and extracts are natural diuretics—a substance that helps flush salt and chloride from the body in the form of urine. Excessive amounts of celery could potentially lead to dehydration in cats, albeit a very mild case. This diuretic property is often used in a beneficial way, however. In rats, celery extracts reduced high blood pressure (4).

Celery has also been shown to decrease cholesterol and triglycerides in rats (5). In vitro studies have shown that celery extract can regrow nerve cells (6). Celery is also high in fiber, which helps regulate the production of feces and promotes regularity. Higher fiber intake helps cats feel full.

Many cats demonstrate a preference for certain textures or shapes that are fun to chew on. In fact, some cats become obsessed with chewing on things like wooden furniture! Celery is an excellent enrichment tool. Its crunchy, wood-like texture makes it a fun chew toy of sorts for cats. You could even hang it from the ceiling on a string to provide your favorite feline with a moving target to practice pouncing upon. 

Celery is not common in commercially sold cat food diets or treats. It is primarily composed of water and, secondarily, fiber, which makes it a difficult ingredient to incorporate. You may find it as an ingredient in recipes for homemade cat food posted online. However, always check with your veterinarian before whipping up any homemade cat food recipe. Unless the recipe has been thoroughly vetted by a veterinary nutritionist or prescribed by your veterinarian, there’s no way to confirm that it is nutritionally complete and balanced. 

Is Celery Bad for Cats?

In some cases, celery can be harmful to your cat. If your cat ingests a large quantity of celery stalks or leaves, they could suffer an upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea. While having high fiber content is beneficial, it can also be difficult to digest.

Celery may also be cross-reactive with certain allergens. If your cat is allergic to things in the environment such as mugwort or other grasses, they may also be allergic to celery.

Celery and Cats: Feeding Tips

On average, only 10 percent of your cat’s daily diet (at most) should come from sources outside of their nutritionally-balanced cat food. With that in mind, about 1 tablespoon of celery per day would be considered a suitable serving.

When you are serving up celery as a special treat, you can leave it as a whole chunk or dice it up, depending on your cat’s preference. If you are offering celery as an enriching play option, leave it as a whole stalk for your cat to grab and chew.

Celery juice is not harmful to cats in small quantities. There are no specific guidelines about how much celery juice is too much for cats to drink, but pet parents should not offer more than about a tablespoon per day. As a natural diuretic, celery juice can trigger your cat to lose extra fluids. But as long as your cat has plenty of fresh water available at all times, they should be fine.

Celery seeds are sometimes used therapeutically in Eastern medicine. Before giving your cat any herbal supplement, you should consult your veterinarian. Some herbal supplements contain high doses of compounds that may be harmful to your cat, depending on their medical history and conditions.

As long as you follow these guidelines, you should be able to share the crunchy, yummy benefits of celery safely with your cat. 

The post Can Cats Eat Celery? appeared first on Great Pet Care.

But can cats eat strawberries? Even better question—SHOULD cats eat strawberries? Read on about the nutrition and related research around strawberries for cats.

Can Cats Eat Strawberries?

The short answer is that cats can eat strawberries! However, strawberries cannot replace a well-balanced diet and should be considered an additional treat more than a part of a cat’s routine diet. Without meat and a whole host of vitamins and minerals in the correct proportions, cats can become very ill. As obligate carnivores, meat-based diets for cats are a must.

On average, a cat should only eat approximately 10 percent of their total diet as other food besides their well-balanced cat food. For example, eating strawberries as 10 percent of a cat’s diet would add up to approximately 1 tablespoon of strawberry per day.

Are Strawberries Good for Cats?

There is no evidence to show that cats specifically benefit from strawberries. However, multiple studies show benefits to a variety of other species, especially humans. Research shows that strawberries:

• Have many vitamins, antioxidants and polyphenols known to reverse damage to cells due to aging and other factors [1].

• Are associated with decreased risk of hypertension (high blood pressure) [1].

• Help maintain a steady blood glucose (sugar) level [1].

• Animals fed strawberries (2 percent of their diet) demonstrated better motor skills and increased cognition, or mental ability for logic [2].

• May protect against cancer, heart disease, diabetes, obesity and neurologic disease (disease of the brain and/or nerves) [3].

Are Strawberries Bad for Cats?

Strawberries are not poisonous to cats. Allergies to strawberries are suspected but not proven in dogs as well as cats. Cats that are allergic to birch and alder pollen can be allergic to strawberries, so cats with a history of allergies should be monitored for increased itching after feeding strawberries.

Strawberries do contain a lot of sugar, and they should never be fed as more than 10 percent of the diet. High sugar content can lead to obesity, which is linked to diabetes and many other health issues in cats.

In addition, strawberries are one of the most contaminated crops with pesticides [4]. There are no reports of poisonings of animals having reactions to strawberries due to pesticides. However, limiting the amount of strawberries that are fed to your cat is wise due to the high likelihood of contamination.

Do Cats Like Strawberries?

Individual cats will vary on whether or not they appreciate the taste of strawberries. Most humans enjoy strawberries for their sweetness, but cats cannot taste sweet things—they lack the sweet taste receptor all together [5]! The tartness and texture may be appealing to some cats, and not to others.

Pet parents can feed strawberries daily to their cats if they show no symptoms of an upset stomach and 90 percent of what they are eating is a well-balanced food made for cats. Any increase in weight in your cat should be taken seriously and treats that are lower in sugar should be considered. 

Can Cats Eat Strawberry Leaves?

Yes! Strawberries and their leaves are not poisonous to cats. However, eating the stems and leaves may cause gastrointestinal (stomach) upset such as vomiting, so it’s a good idea to monitor your cat for signs of upset if they consume strawberry leaves.

Can Cats Eat Strawberry Yogurt?

Yogurt can be fed to cats, but stomach upset is a relatively common consequence. Dairy products—such as milk, cheese, and yogurt—may cause stomach upset including vomiting and diarrhea since cats do not have much enzyme to break down lactose.

Plain unflavored yogurt would be preferable over flavored, strawberry yogurt since the sugar content should be lower in plain yogurt. Cats do not need any extra sugar in their diet. 

One possible difference between strawberry yogurt and plain yogurt may be the content of xylitol. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener in place of sugar. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Animal Poison Control has had no reports of cat toxicity to artificial sweeteners before, but pet parents should still be cautious as xylitol is very toxic to dogs. Toxicity is typically similar between dogs and cats.

Can Cats Eat Strawberry Ice Cream?

Ice cream is a dairy product, and due to the lack of an enzyme to break down lactose, cats may have gastrointestinal upset after eating strawberry ice cream. Ice cream in general contains a high amount of fat and sugar. Food high in fat can result in stomach upset as well as obesity, pancreatitis, and diabetes if fed in high amounts.

Strawberry ice cream is not toxic to cats, but it is likely to upset the cat’s stomach and should only be fed on occasion, if ever. Pet parents should avoid any product that contains xylitol.

Cats and Strawberries: The Verdict

Strawberries are a generally safe treat to give to your cat. Cats should not be eating more than approximately 1 tablespoon of strawberries (or any other food!) per day if pet parents choose to feed their cats with this fruit. 

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Nutrition is key for kittens in preventing serious health consequences and promoting healthy growth. Read this article to understand what kind of food your kitten should eat, how much, and how often.

What Do Kittens Eat? 

Kittens require higher levels of nutrients than adult cats do simply because they are growing. 

Some of these nutritional needs include:

• Energy (calories)
• Protein
• Fat
• Minerals (such as calcium and phosphorus)

Newborn kittens (3 weeks old and under) get adequate nutrition from their mother’s milk or from commercial kitten formula. It is very important that kittens only drink their mother’s milk or a commercial formula made for cats because each species has very different milk properties, and kittens require specific nutrient balances. Certain amino acids such as taurine that cats require are not found in dog milk or goat milk, for instance. Without taurine cats develop severe heart disease and blindness.

After kittens turn 3-4 weeks old, canned and dry commercial diets will provide complete nutrition for kittens. The food should either state it is formulated for kittens or for all life-stages. If a food is formulated for all life-stages, this means that the higher nutrients kittens would require are included in the food.

Kittens should not be fed adult cat food as it will not contain sufficient fat, protein, or minerals for healthy growth. However, if a kitten eats some adult food for a day or two until you can get to the store, it’s no problem!

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has developed minimum standards for what nutrition foods must contain for dogs and cats. Look for a small AAFCO statement on the bag or cans of food. If there isn’t one, another brand of food should be chosen.

How Long Do Kittens Nurse? 

Kittens eat liquid-only diets until they are approximately 3-4 weeks of age. At that time, kittens slowly begin eating more solid foods. 

If you have a mother cat and kittens, simply leave out plenty of canned cat food so that kittens and the mother cat can eat as they please. The kittens will watch their mother eat and will try it on their own. A pate-style canned food is much easier for kittens than chunky foods. Mother cats naturally wean their own kittens by decreasing the amount of time the kittens are allowed to nurse.

If you have a very young kitten without a mother, at 3-4 weeks of age begin offering a shallow dish of kitten formula with a very small amount of canned pate food mixed in. Bring the kitten to the dish and entice them to eat by using a small spoon placed near their mouth. Most kittens at this age will begin chewing or suckling on the contents of the spoon. Slowly bring the spoon down into the bowl so the kitten tries some of the mixture. This stage is very messy!

Once the kitten begins eating out of the dish reliably, bottle feeding is no longer necessary. This occurs when they eat out of a dish without chewing the sides of the dish and without sucking on the food. 

Offer a new dish of formula and canned food at least twice daily, if not 3 to 4 times per day, out of a clean dish. Every couple days, increase the amount of canned food mixed into the formula for about 2 weeks. Kittens should be fully off formula (or their mother’s milk) by 6 to 9 weeks of age.

When Can Kittens Eat Wet Food?  

Kittens can eat wet kitten food as early as 3 weeks of age. Since kittens are not usually fully weaned until 6 to 9 weeks of age, there is ideally a gradual change from formula or their mother’s milk to a solid-food diet.

However, some kittens younger than 6 weeks old—as young as 3 weeks old—are already onto solid foods. If a kitten refuses to eat from a bottle, and is 3 weeks of age or older, set out a plate of canned food and see what happens! The kitten may very well chow down.

When Can Kittens Eat Dry Food? 

Kittens can be offered dry food whenever they have fully transitioned to canned food—approximately 6 weeks of age and older. Your kitten will choose whether they prefer mostly canned food or mostly dry food. The important thing is to provide as much canned and dry food as your kitten wishes to eat!

What Human Food Can Kittens Eat? 

Cats are obligate carnivores, so really your cat can eat plain, well-cooked meat of any kind. Raw or undercooked meat is not good for your cat, as bacteria and parasites can cause serious health concerns in your cat including diarrhea and vomiting.

Cats should only eat up to 10 percent of their daily food requirements as food other than their main balanced diet. 

If you choose to feed human food to your cat, it would equate to approximately 1 tablespoon in total per day. As long as the human food is safe for your cat and all treats including human food are kept to a total of 1 tablespoon per day, your kitten can enjoy some human food!

Examples of safe human foods for kittens include:

• Meat, plain and well-cooked
• Eggs, cooked
• Vegetables (other than onion, garlic or chives), fresh and plain
• Fruit (other than citrus fruit or grapes), fresh and plain – including strawberries!
• Starches, plain and cooked such as rice, potato, bread or noodles
• Popcorn, cooked without salt or butter

Can Kittens Eat Tuna?

Kittens can have small amounts of tuna each day. In total, kittens should be fed no more than 1 tablespoon per day of foods other than their main diet. If tuna is fed in this amount or less, your kitten should not experience any ill effects. 

Tuna itself is not a particularly beneficial part of a cat’s diet.

Kittens that are fed larger amounts of tuna have developed serious health issues, including:

• Nutritional deficiency, particularly a lack of calcium.
• Thiamine deficiency, since tuna contains enzymes that break down thiamine which cats need to survive.
• Pansteatitis, a painful and potentially lethal inflammation of the fat throughout the body.
• Lower urinary tract disease, inflammation of the bladder leading to discomfort.
• Abnormal bleeding, due to tuna decreasing effective vitamin K.

Homemade Kitten Food 

Feeding your young feline homemade kitten food is very challenging and not recommended by veterinary nutritionists. This is particularly true in kittens, as growing animals have even higher nutritional demands.

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they must eat meat to survive. This does not mean that cats only need meat, however, and without proper supplements added to a mixture of proteins and carbohydrates your cat will not do well. Kittens are particularly susceptible to nutritional deficiency, meaning they are not receiving adequate nutrition even if the amount of food is adequate. 

An example of this is nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism, a condition that occurs in kittens not fed balanced diets related to calcium and phosphorus levels. Their bones become paper-thin and break without any trauma, causing significant pain and discomfort. 

If you do decide to make a homemade diet for your kitten, you must speak with your veterinarian. The internet is full of people’s recipes, which are unfounded and could lead to serious health conditions in your kitten if not given under veterinary supervision.

What Not to Feed Your Kitten

There are many things that should not be fed to your kitten. These include the following:

Dairy Products

Dairy products, like milk, may cause stomach upset including vomiting and diarrhea since cats do not have much enzyme to break down lactose. 

Fatty Foods

Food high in fat can result in stomach upset as well as obesity, pancreatitis, and diabetes if fed in high amounts. 

Salty Foods

Salty foods can cause increased urination and drinking and may even cause toxicity if fed in high quantities including tremors and seizures. 

Undercooked Foods

Undercooked meat, eggs and bones may contain dangerous bacteria. Raw eggs actually decrease absorption of B vitamins causing skin and coat problems. Bones can splinter and become lodged in your kitten’s throat.

Other foods that should not be fed to your kitten include:

• Alcohol
• Chives
• Chocolate
• Coffee
• Caffeine
• Citrus fruits or plants
• Coconut or coconut oil
• Garlic
• Grapes or raisins
• Nuts
• Onion
• Xylitol (found in gum, candy, baked goods and toothpaste)
• Yeast dough

How Much Food Should a Kitten Eat? 

Young kittens primarily eating formula (4 weeks and under) should eat no more than their stomach can hold. Stomach capacity for food is determined based on body weight. This would equate to 20 ml of formula per pound.

Kittens under 4 months old require 90 calories per pound per day. But, the best rule of thumb for kittens between 2 and 6 months of age is to feed as much as they will eat of a balanced kitten diet. Some kittens will eat more than others, depending on their own individual metabolism.

Once your kitten reaches 6 months of age, their metabolism will begin to slow down. Most cats will require much less food and should be monitored closely for unnecessary weight gain. Each and every kitten is different, so amounts may vary considerably.

How Much Wet Food to Feed a Kitten

For kittens under 4 months old, one-half of a 5.5 oz can of cat food should be fed in total over a single day. 

For kittens over 4 months, most will eat approximately 1.5 to 2 cans of 5.5 oz canned food per day. 

How Much Dry Food to Feed a Kitten

For kittens under 4 months, approximately one-quarter cup of dry food would be fed in total over a single day. If offering canned food as well (which is strongly recommended), decrease the total amount of dry food by one to two tablespoons.

For kittens over 4 months, most will eat approximately one-half cup to three-quarters cup of dry food per day. Decrease by one-quarter cup if offering canned food, too.

How Often Should Kittens Eat?

Kittens eating formula should ideally eat 7 times per day if 1 week old, 6 times per day if 2 weeks old, 5 times per day if 3 weeks old and 4 times per day if 4 weeks old.

Kittens prefer to whenever they feel like it. However, meal feeding once your kitten is eating solid food can lead to healthier eating habits in the future. Feeding 2 to 4 meals per day is preferred.

When to Switch from Kitten Food to Cat Food 

Once a kitten reaches 10-12 months of age, they should be transitioned to an adult cat food diet. The lower protein and calorie content in adult cat food will help in preventing cat obesity. Portion control becomes very important as well, monitoring how much your cat is eating and listening to your veterinarian if your kitten has started gaining extra fat.

To transition your kitten to adult food, it will be easier to do the switch gradually over approximately one week. Each day mix in a little more of the adult food and a little less of the kitten food. Choosing the adult version of the same brand of food will help as the taste should be somewhat similar.

Kittens have specific nutritional needs. Using tips from this article will ensure your kitten remains healthy and eats the quality food they deserve. You can always call your veterinarian if you are concerned. As long as you choose a balanced commercial kitten diet and keep treats to a minimum, your kitten will live a long healthy life!

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In this article, we provide detailed answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on cat vaccinations.

Do I Need to Vaccinate My Cat?

The answer to this question is yes. 

According to the American Association of Feline Practitioners, your cat should be vaccinated. Cat vaccinations are also scientifically and medically proven to be beneficial. Such vaccinations minimize the transmission of fatal diseases and viruses that can cause lifelong illness in cats.

Furthermore, vaccinating your cat against diseases such as rabies ensures that you and other animals in your home are safe from fatal diseases.

When Should You Vaccinate Your Cat?

If you just brought a kitten into your home, you’ll first need to find out if they are vaccinated. 

Kittens should be vaccinated starting at 6 weeks. The vaccinations are administered in a series every three to four weeks, until your kitty reaches 16 weeks. The kitten should also get their booster shots a year later.

If you have an adult cat who has never been vaccinated, you’ll need to talk to your vet. The vet will advise you on the best vaccines for your fur baby after considering their age, lifestyle, breed, location, and pre-existing medical conditions. 

Adult cats who have already been vaccinated will need booster shots after 1-3 years, depending on the duration of the vaccine, location, and lifestyle. 

What vaccines do I need to give my cat?

According to the Feline Vaccination Advisory Panel guidelines, cat vaccines are divided into two categories:

• Core shots
• Non-core shots

Core Cat Vaccines

Core vaccines are required for all cats. These vaccines protect against diseases that are highly contagious and fatal. The core vaccines also have minimal adverse effects on cats. 

The two essential vaccines for cats are:

• Rabies
• FVRCP
  • Feline viral rhinotracheitis
  • Feline calicivirus
  • Feline panleukopenia virus or feline distemper

Let’s take a closer look at each of these vaccines:

Rabies vaccine

The rabies virus is fatal to both humans and animals. Most states require that your cat be vaccinated against rabies. Cats get rabies after being infected by other sick animals, and they then pass on the virus to others. Some of the symptoms of this disease in your cat include wobbly while walking (ataxia), aggression, and death.

The FVRCP vaccine

This vaccine is also known as the distemper shot. It’s a single shot given to protect your cat against the three viruses below:

• Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR): This virus, also known as feline herpes, is caused by feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1). It affects a cat’s respiratory system and is characterized by conjunctivitis, nasal congestion, and sneezing. The disease can also lead to pneumonia.
• Feline calicivirus (FCV): Feline calicivirus affects a cat’s upper respiratory organs. Signs of this virus include oral ulcerations, sneezing, nasal discharge, gingivitis, and even death.
• Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV): This highly infectious illness is characterized by poor appetite, lack of energy, diarrhea, vomiting, and even sudden death in kittens. 

Your cat should get booster shots of these core vaccines one year after the initial shots. The FVRCP vaccine should be administered annually to outdoor cats. Cats who are low risk and live an indoor existence without any known exposure, like open screens, can wait to get the vaccine every three years.

Non-Core Cat Vaccines

Your fur baby may need extra vaccines depending on the prevalence of illness in your area and the amount of time they spend outdoors. These shots are non-core vaccines. Some of the most common ones include:

• Chlamydia: This shot protects your cat from chlamydia, a bacterial infection that leads to conjunctivitis. This shot is sometimes part of the FVRCP vaccine.
• Feline leukemia virus (FeLV): This vaccine is highly recommended for outdoor cats. The virus is transmitted through body fluids, such as saliva and urine. Although some cats recover from this disease, others suffer from secondary illnesses, such as anemia or lymphoma, once the disease goes past the latency stage.
• Bordetella: This vaccine is strictly for catteries and animal shelters in which Bordetella infection is a confirmed issue for their entire population. This disease is highly contagious and causes respiratory symptoms, such as sneezing, fever, difficult breathing, and nasal discharge.

Do Cat Vaccines Have Severe Side Effects?

Each of the vaccines highlighted above carries a given amount of risk. However, these risks are much lower than the risk of your cat getting the highlighted diseases.

The effects of these vaccines on your cat are often mild, and they occur in only about 0.5 percent of all vaccinated cats. Death and other adverse outcomes are extremely rare. If your cat has no history of vaccine reactions, they will likely be okay.

Some of the symptoms you can look out for that may be an indication of a vaccine reaction in cats include:

• Fever
• Lameness
• Swelling and redness on the injection area
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Hives
• Diarrhea

If you notice any of these signs, consult your vet immediately to ensure your cat gets immediate care.

Keep Track of Your Cat’s Vaccination Records

After vaccinating your cat, stay organized by keeping track of your cat’s vaccination records. Consider setting vaccination reminders, so you’ll get a notification when your cat is due for another round of shots.

Understanding the importance of vaccinating your cat is vital to being a good pet parent. If you have a new kitten or your adult cat isn’t up-to-date with their vaccinations, schedule a visit with a vet immediately so you can agree on a vaccination schedule.

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Understanding the natural reasons behind why cats bite can help us humans in preventing and perhaps decreasing this behavior in the future.

Why Do Cats Bite?

There are several natural reasons that cats bite. Cats are very social creatures but prefer to hunt alone. Cats bite when hunting in order to capture and kill their prey. In fact, cats are one of the few animals that hunt even when they are not hungry.

Cats also bite when they perceive a threat or have a high level of fear and are unable to flee. This is a normal, instinctual behavior in order to protect themselves. Cats experiencing this level of fear demonstrate their fear in other ways such as hissing, growling, ears going flat, swatting, and spitting.

But not all biting is part of a cat’s instinctual prey drive or brought on by fear. Biting is also a natural part of play between cats. This type of biting should never result in wounds or injury. Cats mark their own scent on objects in their environment. On occasion, when marking a human with their cheek, cats may bite lightly. These behaviors are all learned from a very early age through interactions with cats and sometimes humans.

Why Do Cats Bite Their Owners?

There are several reasons that cats may bite their owners.

Frustration or Fear 

Sometimes pet parents do things to their cats that they do not like. For example, a pet parent picks up his/her cat, but she does not like to be picked up. When she is trying to get away but cannot or she is feeling afraid, kitty may bite. This is a normal behavior in response to fear.

Pain 

Cats hide symptoms of pain very well. Even when pet parents do not recognize that their cat is in pain, kitty may bite from the discomfort. Over 90 percent of cats that are 12 years old and older develop painful arthritis. Dental disease can be very painful and may lead to biting. 

Petting 

Some cats will bite to signal they have had enough petting. Sometimes this is due to overstimulation where the cat is in a state of high arousal due to prolonged petting or play. It could be due to pain but does not have to be.

Redirected Aggression

In some cases, a cat will perceive a threat and remain in a hypervigilant or state of hyperarousal—meaning her adrenaline is pumping and she is feeling panicked or super excited. A pet parent (or sometimes other cats) may cross paths with this cat, and she bites him/her. The hardest part about identifying this type of aggression is knowing ahead of time that the cat is overly aroused.

Conflict

On occasion, a cat will bite a pet parent that creates conflict between them. For example, if a cat jumps onto the counter and the pet parent tries to “shoo” her off of the counter, she may bite. Cats naturally appreciate being in control of their environments and interactions, and this may be related to creating a sense of controlling the situation. Keep in mind that punishing your cat for biting in these circumstances will make this behavior much worse.

Understanding Play Biting in Cats

Cats are very social creatures and, from approximately 3 weeks of age until 16 weeks, they engage in social play with both cats and humans that will shape their interactions for the rest of their lives. 

Biting is a natural part of play, and with appropriate social play with other cats, cats learn bite inhibition. Bite inhibition means that cats learn how hard they can bite without causing injury. It would be inappropriate for a bite to break skin and cause injury when the cat is intending to play.

While play biting is normal and expected between cats that play, many pet parents accidentally encourage this behavior between themselves and their cats causing bites. These bites can be very mild including barely feeling a play bite or painful resulting in red marks on the skin.

Play aggression occurs in cats that were never properly socialized as kittens during the crucial social play period and is one of the most common causes of aggression to people. If cats did not learn appropriate play with other cats, they are unlikely to have learned bite inhibition and will bite pet parents very hard in an attempt to play. These bites can even break skin and create small wounds. Kitty may even claw her pet parent, having never learned how to sheathe (put away) her claws. These bites often occur on feet, legs, hands, or arms.

Pet parents should stop all play biting—it should not be encouraged or allowed at any time. Play biting could lead to firmer and firmer bites that eventually cause harm to the pet parent. 

Cat parents are encouraged to:

• Play daily with their cat to ensure kitty is getting enough play and attention, and atleast twice daily if the cat is less than a year old.
• Use wand toys or other items that keep hands far away from the cat during play.
• If a bite occurs, immediately stop the interaction. Slowly remove whatever appendage was scratched or bit from the situation, and slowly leave the area to signal you are done with play. Most of the time, kitty is very aroused and will need a distraction to stop play—have a small, favored toy on hand to toss away from you when ending play.
• Give 1 or 2 treats to kitty after a great play session that did not involve any bites.
• Never punish your cat for biting—no physical or vocal punishment. This can create fear and decrease the bond between the pet parent and cat.

Remember to stop play and walk away whenever a cat is interacting with you in an inappropriate way.

Is There Such A Thing As a Cat Love Bite?

Cats are very scent motivated and often mark their own scent on objects in their environment to decrease their stress and indicate their territory. Marking is typically done by rubbing the cheek, chin, or tail base against an item repeatedly. On occasion, some cats that are very involved in marking a human with their cheek may bite lightly. Pet parents often describe that the cat “mouthed” them or that they felt the graze of teeth.

These soft bites during times of marking are typically called “love bites.” Cats that mark by rubbing are often content and when interacting with their pet parents may be purring, trilling, tail vibrating, eyes partially closed or demonstrating other cues that kitty is very pleased with the interaction. These gentle bites do not need to be stopped necessarily but they should also not be encouraged. Pet parents that are used to these gentle bites may be startled and upset if their cat suddenly bites harder. While these bites do not often progress to injury, it is possible. If a cat begins gently biting, it would be best to calmly and slowly walk away from kitty to avoid any mishaps.

What to Do If Your Cat Is Biting

If your cat is biting you, it can be quite upsetting. Sometimes the bites are painful but do not cause wounds, and other times it can result in wounds that can become infected. 

The first thing to do with your cat is make an appointment with the veterinarian. Keep a daily log of the when the bites occur and record the day’s events. Were there any visitors that day? Did your routine change? Was there anything different about the environment, including a shipment of packages or construction noise outside?

The reason to make an appointment with your veterinarian is to immediately rule out medical causes. If your cat is approximately 7 years of age or older, or the behavior has suddenly started occurring, medical causes are quite common. Remember, cats hide symptoms of pain and discomfort—so issues such as chronic bladder inflammation, painful dental disease, and arthritis can lead to sudden changes in behavior and increased bites to pet parents. If your veterinarian does not find a medical cause, he/she will offer tips to try at home or refer you to a cat behavior specialist if there is aggression occurring.

The best solution to all biting is prevention. If your cat bites you during petting, find other ways to interact with your cat without petting or stick to very few (3 or less) pets for every interaction. If your cat bites you every time you pick her up, do not pick her up.

Behavior modification is the practice of recognizing unwanted behaviors like biting and modifying them. Modifying behavior never involves punishment of any kind. Instead, cat parents can work on the following:

Meet Your Cat’s Natural Needs 

Your cat should have access to scratching that is both vertical and horizontal. Cat trees can provide an area for scratching and climbing. A variety of play toys should always be available and changed out at least weekly. Fresh water should be available at all times. Food should NOT be available at all times—cats are used to hunting their food in smaller quantities throughout the day. Litter boxes should be large enough for your cat to comfortably turn around and dig in with soft substrate. Cats need places to hide, and higher-up places to climb.

Increase Your Cat’s Enrichment

Cats need a lot of variety and excitement in their environment to meet their behavioral needs. Play should be daily and never involve hands or very small toys that could result in bites to hands. Think of all your cat’s senses—taste, touch, smell, sight and sound. Does your cat have a new sensory experience every day? Try food puzzles at mealtimes, play cat-friendly videos on a computer or TV, or leave out a paper bag for your cat to rustle in.

Reward Welcome Behavior

Have treats handy. If your cat uses the cat scratcher instead of your armchair, immediately give kitty a treat!

Redirect Your Cat’s Biting When Possible

If your cat is focused on your feet every time you sit in your office chair, place a few treats or favorite small toys near the office chair that you can calmly reach for. Toss treats or small toys away from you to distract your cat to chase something else and avoid the situation which may lead to bites. If she is sitting on your lap and kitty is biting you, slowly stand up so that kitty has to jump down on her own instead of you needing to lift her.

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So how do we know if our cat is coughing or if he is doing something else? When should we be concerned? And what causes cats to cough? Read below to find the 11 most common causes of coughing in cats.

Do Cats Cough?

Cats can cough just like people do. Any irritation in the respiratory tract could lead to a cough. Coughing on rare occasions (once every few months or even less frequently) could be normal, but most cats do not cough unless something is wrong.

A cat’s respiratory system goes from the nose all the way to the lungs—including the nasal cavity (chamber of the nose), pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), and lungs. Inside the lungs are passageways for air called bronchi that get smaller and lead to bronchioles. Cats cough when there is irritation anywhere from the pharynx down to the bronchioles, so knowing exactly why (or from where) the cough is coming from can be tricky.

What Does a Coughing Cat Sound Like? 

A cat that coughs usually stops what activity they are doing and sticks out their head, extending their neck. You may hear one cough, or several—and if your cat coughs several times in a row, he will stand or sit in one place during this. 

There are two types of cat coughs: a dry cough or a productive (wet) cough. Some causes of coughing will increase mucus production and produce a wet cough, while others will not and produce a dry cough. 

A dry cough sounds like a “honk” or “wheeze” and your cat does not swallow afterward.

A wet cough sounds like water or something caught in the back of your cat’s throat—perhaps like crackles. He will swallow afterward.

Other Reasons for Cat Coughing Sounds

It is very challenging for pet parents to know if their cat is actually coughing or producing a different sound. Some other things that could be happening instead of coughing include:

Retching occurs when something catches in the back of the throat. Cats will usually make a sudden loud noise with their mouths wide open briefly before shutting it again. Retching can occur after a fit of coughing, and a very small amount of fluid or possibly food may come out.

Reverse sneezing usually occurs in fits and comes from irritation in the nasal cavity and throat. Your cat’s mouth is likely mostly closed, multiple sneezes happen rapidly without pausing, with the lips pulled back as your cat draws air inward (instead of out like coughing).

Vomiting is when the body releases stomach (or nearby small intestine) contents out through the mouth. Your cat will produce fluid and foodstuff (unless your cat’s stomach is empty). In some cases, a mass of fur will come out as well.

Because cat coughing sounds can be hard to decipher, take a video of when it is happening and show it to your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose whether the noise you are hearing is coughing or not.

Why is My Cat Coughing: 11 Common Causes

There are many causes of coughing in cats—remember, the issue could be anywhere from the throat to deep in the chest. Determining the cause of your cat’s coughing will dictate the treatment plan.

Possible causes of cat coughing include:

Viral Respiratory Infection

This can be caused by feline herpesvirus-1 or feline calicivirus (or rarely influenza). These viruses are contagious from cat to cat and very common. Cats can develop an infection as a kitten and harbor the virus for the rest of their lives. If the throat is inflamed and irritated, coughing may occur.

Chronic Bronchitis (Also Known as Asthma)

Approximately 1 percent of ill cats are diagnosed with chronic bronchitis (or feline asthma), which is a similar disease to asthma in people. This is a disease related to inflammation in the air passages and causes chronic dry cough in most cases. Cats can hide the disease well, however, and may suddenly begin coughing and struggle to breathe as opposed to showing chronic cough. Siamese and Oriental cats are more likely to get this condition.

Infectious Bronchitis

This is when infection causes inflammation of the airways in the lungs. It can occur due to:

Bacteria such as Mycoplasma spp. or Bordetella bronchiseptica. These bacteria are rarely alone and often infect the upper airway and/or lungs with a virus. Coughing occurs suddenly and is usually accompanied by fever, decreased appetite, decreased activity, and sneezing with nasal mucus.

Parasites known as lungworms (Aelurostrongylus abstrusus or Eucoleus aerophilus). These parasites sit inside the air passages in the lungs and cause inflammation leading to a cough in cats. These are more common in young cats that live outdoors.

Pneumonia 

A serious condition, Pneumonia in cats refers to inflammation of the lungs in general. It comes on quickly and makes your cat feel very sick—likely feverish, lacking appetite, no activity, and perhaps struggling to breathe. Various causes include:

Infections with bacteria, viruses, parasites, protozoa (i.e. Toxoplasma gondii), fungi or mycobacterium.

Aspiration, which happens when your cat accidentally breathes in vomit or stomach fluid, usually occurring with severe episodes of vomiting or anesthesia/sedation.

Foreign Body in the Throat

Occasionally, parts of plants, objects your cat attempted to eat, or even a furball can catch in the throat area or inside the nose. If a foreign body is there, it creates inflammation as well as mucus that can cause a cough.

Nasopharyngeal Polyp

This is a mass that is either a side effect or cause of chronic inflammation of the nose or throat. Oftentimes there is no specific underlying reason. These swellings create inflammation and usually mucus, creating a cough, as well as possibly voice change or loud breathing through the nose like snoring.

Edema

Edema is when fluid fills the air passages of the lungs, causing coughing as the body attempts to get rid of the fluid and struggles to breathe. This can be caused by the heart (cardiogenic) or not. Coughing due to heart failure is exceedingly rare in cats, so if edema is present, it is unlikely to be related to heart disease. Even so the only way to know is to have your cat’s heart examined by a specialist, or cardiologist.

Cancer

Cancer in cats can cause cough in many different ways. One way would be if a large mass is growing in the chest or throat area and pushing on the trachea (windpipe) or air passages of the lungs. Another possibility is cancer growing inside the throat, windpipe, or air passages themselves.

Trauma

When cats experience trauma, bleeding can occur inside the air passages resulting in a cough. Sometimes the lungs themselves can perforate so air escapes and makes it harder to breathe. In any case, these cats need medical attention right away.

Pleural Effusion

This means some sort of fluid is inside the cat’s chest but outside of the lungs. It can be bacterial infection, fluid from cancer, or lymph fluid (rare). This fluid puts pressure outside of the lungs, resulting in a cough.

Enlarged Lymph Nodes Deep in the Chest

Many lymph nodes naturally live inside a cat’s chest cavity that work within the immune system. Cancer or severe infection can cause these lymph nodes to swell, and if they swell significantly they put pressure on the windpipe and air passages, resulting in a cough.

Rare Causes of Coughing in Cats

While the above causes of coughing in cats are more common, there are other reasons that may produce a cough. The following causes are rare and do not happen often in our feline companions. 

Heartworm Disease (rare)

Infection with Dirofilaria immitis is much more common in dogs since cats are naturally resistant. When cats do have a heartworm infection, however, it is often life threatening if the cat is experiencing symptoms. Cough occurs as the heartworm parasites live inside the air passages, causing severe inflammation. Any cat who lives outdoors in areas known to have heartworm disease and does not receive monthly heartworm prevention (topical on the skin or by mouth) may have heartworm disease.

Bronchiectasis (very rare)

This means severe chronic inflammation has permanently thickened and hardened the air passages of the lungs. Because of the inflammation, coughing occurs.

Laryngeal paralysis (very rare)

This condition is more common in dogs than it is in cats. The larynx is the opening to the windpipe and consists of two folds of tissue that open when your cat is breathing in. Paralyzed or immobile folds create inflammation and a decreased ability to breathe in, causing a cough.

Cat Coughing Treatment

How you treat a coughing cat depends on the cause of the coughing, so get a diagnosis by a veterinarian first. In some cases, your vet may recommend diagnostic imaging to identify the exact cause of the cough.

Some of the more common treatments for coughing in cats include:

• Antibiotics for respiratory infections or pneumonia such as doxycycline or enrofloxacin.
• Steroids for chronic bronchitis, polyps or other inflammatory conditions such as prednisolone by mouth or a cat inhaler containing fluticasone.
• Antiparasitics for lungworms such as fenbendazole by mouth or imidacloprid/moxidectin applied to the skin.

Cats that have more serious conditions such as pleural effusion, trauma, or severe pneumonia may need to stay in the veterinary hospital and be treated with oxygen, medications, and special procedures like the removal of fluid from the chest. Veterinarians do this using a needle—a minor procedure called thoracocentesis.

If a foreign body or polyp is present, your veterinarian may recommend anesthetizing your cat at the hospital and examining his mouth, throat, and nasal cavity while sleeping. If a polyp is found, the veterinarian may be able to remove it. Flushing the nasal cavity may help if a foreign body sticks near the back of the throat, or if there is a large amount of mucus production.

Medicine for a Coughing Cat

Two medications that treat coughing in cats are dextromethorphan and guaifenesin. You can find these medications over the counter and in human medications. Vets rarely recommend these for cats as they are largely ineffective and do not treat the cause of the cough which can worsen with time. 

If your cat is coughing, cough medicine is not recommended. He needs to be seen by a veterinarian.

When to Worry About a Coughing Cat

If your cat is heard coughing one day and you had not heard it before, monitor him closely. A cat that is coughing, even occasionally, for two weeks or more likely has a chronic medical issue that needs attention, even if he is not experiencing other symptoms of illness. Realizing your cat is coughing and bringing him to the veterinarian early is the best way to keep your cat healthy.

If your cat coughs a lot one day or appears in distress, get him to the veterinarian right away. Specific symptoms that indicate an emergency include:

• Limited to no appetite
• Decreased or no activity
• Hiding or other change in behavior
• Breath rate is more than once per second (over 60 breaths per minute)

Breathing appears exaggerated, such as the chest and/or belly are moving in and out quickly or dramatically or your cat is open mouth panting/breathing

The post Coughing Cat: 11 Common Causes (and How to Help) appeared first on Great Pet Care.

It shortens the lifespan of cats and can be spread between cats in a variety of situations, so it is crucial pet parents know about this condition. There is no cure, and many medical conditions may affect your cat because his immune system is decreased when infected with FeLV. 

There are several ways to prevent this devastating disease. Let’s cover how FeLV impacts cats, the symptoms and treatment options, and what pet parents can do to help keep their cats safe from this virus. 

What is Feline Leukemia Virus?

FeLV is a retrovirus. This class of viruses inserts its genetic material, called RNA, into your cat’s own DNA. Once this occurs, your cat’s body will unknowingly create more FeLV through a natural process when it makes copies of its own DNA.

In cats, FeLV invades the organs of the immune system and, if it infects your cat for life, will infect cells in the bone marrow. The bone marrow is found in the center of some of the larger bones in the body and is responsible for making critically important cells—such as red blood cells and white blood cells, which prevent infection and are involved in inflammation. Once these cells are infected, FeLV is there to stay and affects the immune system lifelong.

How Common is Feline Leukemia?

In the United States, approximately 3 percent of cats have this disease (1). This means that for every 100 cats tested, 3 cats will have the disease. In comparison, this is more than 3 times as common as diabetes mellitus in cats (2) and about as common as chronic kidney disease in adult (not senior) cats (3).

How Do Cats Get Feline Leukemia Virus?

The FeLV virus is spread oronasally, meaning through the mouth and nose. Any bodily fluid from an infected cat could spread FeLV—whether the fluid is saliva, sneezed droplets, eye discharge, urine, feces, or blood. 

Sharing food bowls, grooming each other, and sharing a litter box can cause cats in a household to spread FeLV from one to another. FeLV can also be spread through deep bite wounds, which is uncommon in pets, but more prevalent in feral and stray cats. 

The most common way for cats to be infected with FeLV is to contract it as a kitten from the mother cat. Kittens are infected with FeLV much more easily than adult cats. As cats get older, they build natural immunity to FeLV which reduces their risk of infection. Adult cats that are immunocompromised for any reason (i.e. high stress or another medical condition that lowers the immune system) will be more easily infected with FeLV.

Cats that live outdoors and/or are not spayed or neutered are more likely to contract FeLV. Outdoor cats are exposed to other cats of unknown health and are more likely to get into fights with other cats. Cats that are not spayed or neutered are more likely to fight with other cats and can suffer deep bite wounds that spread FeLV.

Can Kittens Be Born With Feline Leukemia?

Kittens can be born with the disease and contract it from their mother—called an in utero infection (before the kittens are even born). A mother cat can also transmit the disease to their kittens through sharing bodily fluids, such as from frequent grooming or through nursing (passing the virus in the milk).

Can Cats with Feline Leukemia Live With Other Cats?

Cats with FeLV can live with other cats, but prevention of spread of FeLV within the household is crucial. 

Ideally, FeLV-infected and non-infected cats would not have direct contact, meaning they would not live in the same enclosed area. However, some pet parents wish to intermingle their cats and this could be done safely with the help of a veterinarian.

If a pet parent wishes to bring a FeLV-infected cat into a household with non-infected cats, the following guidelines are important to prevent the spread of the virus:

• Limited number (i.e. 1 or 2) of cats already in the household
• All non-infected cats are healthy adult cats with no known underlying medical conditions
• All non-infected cats are vaccinated not only with core vaccines (i.e. FVRCP and rabies) but also against FeLV with both boosters completed at least 3 weeks prior to introducing the FeLV-infected cat
• High level of enrichment and an abundance of all resources (i.e. food, water, litter boxes, toys, bedding, etc) for all cats to reduce stress.

These guidelines are meant to prevent stress in the home—not only to prevent fights between cats, but to support the immune system. Cats with chronic stress tend to have lowered immune systems and this is more common in multi-cat households.

Feline Leukemia Virus Symptoms

There are limited specific symptoms to FeLV, because FeLV generally lowers the immune system which can result in any number of secondary conditions (medical issues not caused by the virus itself). 

Initially after infection with FeLV, cats may experience a fever, mild lethargy (less active), and mild increase in the size of their lymph nodes. Most pet parents never even notice these subtle signs. 

If a cat becomes infected lifelong, he will be more susceptible to other diseases such as:

• Gingivitis and stomatitis, or painful inflammation in the mouth
  • Symptoms include decreased appetite, vocalizing or pawing at the mouth during/after eating, blood-tinged saliva
• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), another retrovirus in cats
  • Symptoms are rare. After initial infection cats may experience mild fever, lethargy, and increased size of lymph nodes
• Mycoplasma hemofelis, a blood bacterium that causes destruction of red blood cells (anemia) and comes from flea infestation
  • Symptoms include lethargy, decreased appetite, pale/white gums
• Lymphoma, a specific type of cancer that affects white blood cells of the immune system (can be found in the chest, abdomen, lymph nodes or skin)
  • Symptoms are severe and vary depending on where the cancer is found
  • Symptoms could include severe diarrhea, chronic vomiting, lethargy, decreased appetite, weight loss, fast breathing, swelling of the lymph nodes and/or skin
• Neurologic disease
  • Symptoms may include ataxia (walking drunkenly), head tilted to one side, changes in behavior, decreased appetite, decreased activity, stumbling

FeLV does have an end-stage. In progressive lifelong infections, cats may experience destruction of their red blood cells and white blood cells. This is untreatable and cannot be prevented. Symptoms include:

• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Pale or white gums
• Prolonged secondary infections (for example, upper respiratory infection that doesn’t go away)

Diagnosing Feline Leukemia Virus in Cats

FeLV is initially diagnosed with a simple blood test at your veterinary hospital. A very small amount of blood is taken and can either be sent to a laboratory or placed into a test at the hospital that gives a result within 10 minutes. This first test is looking for antigen, or a portion of the Feline Leukemia Virus itself.

 If this test is positive, it is important to follow up with a second, more specialized test at the laboratory. This is because even though the antigen tests are reliable, treatment of certain medical conditions is known to be more challenging for FeLV-infected cats. It is crucial to confirm diagnosis.

 There are 2 main laboratory tests to confirm diagnosis. Both can be used for confirmation of FeLV:

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This test looks for a specific form of the virus (provirus) found in all cats infected with FeLV

Indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). IFA looks for white blood cells traveling in the blood that are infected with FeLV

How to Treat Feline Leukemia Virus

Unfortunately, there is no cure for FeLV. However, infected cats can develop many different medical conditions that are treatable. Just because your FeLV infected cat is sick does not mean he cannot be treated! 

Your veterinarian is key to determining what is causing your cat to be ill. For any cat with FeLV, recognizing signs of illness early on is crucial. Bring your cat to the veterinarian immediately if any abnormal symptoms occur including subtle changes in behavior, appetite, or activity. 

Antiretroviral therapies (chemotherapy) are frequently used in humans with other types of retrovirus infection. However, minimal research has been done on these medications to determine if they are effective against FeLV in cats. Also, these medications can have serious side effects for our feline friends.

Medications for Feline Leukemia Virus in Cats

One of the only antiretroviral therapies that is shown to be effective against FeLV is zidovudine (also known as azidothymidine). This medication will not cure FeLV, but it will decrease the amount of virus and improve some disease states related to FeLV, such as stomatitis. Zidovudine can be injected or given by mouth.

Interferons are injectable medications meant to improve the immune system, including feline interferon omega. However, there are not many well designed studies that demonstrate if this medication truly improves the outcome of cats with FeLV. In a study with only 16 cats that were infected with FeLV or FIV, secondary infections over a short period improved with this medication (4). More studies are needed before it can be determined if these interferons help cats with FeLV.

General Cost to Treat Feline Leukemia

Initial testing in cats for FeLV as well as veterinary examination will typically cost $100-$200. Other secondary medical conditions that may occur and are not caused by FeLV vary in treatment from $100 to treat an upper respiratory infection to thousands of dollars to treat stomatitis.

Since there is no treatment for end-stage FeLV, there is no true cost other than possibly palliative care (keeping your cat comfortable until time for euthanasia).

Life Expectancy of Cats with Feline Leukemia

In scientific studies, cats tend to live 2-3 years after diagnosis of FeLV. However, the age at which cats are diagnosed with FeLV is highly variable. In one study, the median age was 2 years old and the cats lived an average of 2.5 years (5). In essence, the average cat infected with FeLV lived to be approximately 5 years old.

Many cats are diagnosed with FeLV when they show symptoms of illness that prompts testing. Knowing this, it is possible for a cat infected with FeLV to live a normal lifespan—not every cat infected with FeLV will show unusual symptoms of illness.

Cats with FeLV live longer if pet parents bring them to the veterinarian to treat secondary medical conditions that can occur. The diagnosis of FeLV infection is NOT a reason to euthanize your cat. Many cats with FeLV will respond to treatment for different conditions and live a good quality of life, perhaps for many years to come.

How to Prevent Cats From Getting FeLV

There are several ways to prevent your cat from getting FeLV. Take the following steps to keep your cat safe.

Spay/neuter your cat. The most common way to spread FeLV is from mother cats to kittens. Cats that are not spayed or neutered are also more likely to fight, which can spread FeLV.

Allow an indoors-only lifestyle. This will help your cat avoid infections, trauma, and interacting with other unknown cats who may be infected.

Vaccinate your cat against FeLV. The FeLV vaccination may help, especially if your cat is at risk of exposure. 

Test cats for the disease. This is especially important before introducing new cats into your household

Keep your cat healthy. Preventative care such as core vaccinations, routine preventives (flea and parasite medications), and regular veterinary care will help keep your cat’s immune system as effective as possible.

FeLV Vaccine for Cats

Not every adult cat is recommended to receive the FeLV vaccination. But there are some circumstances where it is recommended for cats to be vaccinated. These include: 

• If your cat goes outdoors.
• If your cat spends considerable time on porches or at screened windows and comes into close contact with roaming cats.
• If you decide to adopt or purchase a new cat that is either FeLV-infected or has not been tested.
• If you foster (temporarily care for) any cat whose status of FeLV infection is unknown.

 Your veterinarian will make recommendations specific to your cat, depending on his risk.

Related Conditions 

• Gingivitis
• Stomatitis
• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
• Mycoplasma hemofelis
• Lymphoma
• Neurologic disease

The post All About Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) appeared first on Great Pet Care.

The first thought you may have is if the nose is dry, is my cat dehydrated? A common concern, but cat noses become dry and irritated from issues other than dehydration. Read this article for what your feline’s nose should look like and what could be the cause of dry nose in cats.

Should a Cat’s Nose Be Dry or Wet?

To answer this question, it’s important to realize that each cat’s nose is unique. Some cats have a very wet nose that leaves a small spot of residue after they sniff something. Other cats have no obvious wetness to the nose. There is no hard and fast moisture standard for cat noses, your feline’s nose should never be so dry that it appears cracked, red, scaly or painful.

Cats sweat from very few places on the body—only from hairless areas such as pawpads and possibly the nose. It will make the bridge of your cat’s nose appear wet. This is normal unless your cat is showing symptoms of being overheated, such as breathing with her mouth open, unwilling to move/exercise, and feeling warm to the touch. Keep in mind that cats may sweat more and increase their body temperature in high stress situations like a visit to the veterinary clinic.

Why is My Cat’s Nose Dry?

When a cat’s nose appears dry and cracked or red and raw there are many potential conditions or factors that cause it.

Some cat breeds have particular skin conditions that affect the face. These can result in a dry, crusty nose. Persians, for example, can develop idiopathic facial dermatitis, which causes the facial skin (and nose) to appear dirty. Another breed, Bengals, are known to develop ulcerative nasal dermatitis—inflammation of the nose specifically.

Other potential causes of your cat’s dry nose may include the following health conditions:

Chronic Nasal Discharge

This could occur due to upper respiratory infection (a cat cold) or rhinitis (chronic inflammation of the nasal passages), and would dry out the nose.

Ringworm

Ringworm in cats is a fungal infection that normally affects the face as well as the ears, paws and tail.

Bacterial Infection

Sometimes cats develop an infection that perhaps started with a small wound or accompanies general skin infection.

Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex 

This is a condition that usually affects the lips and may extend to the nose. It occurs due to an overactive immune system.

Herpesvirus Infections of the Skin 

Herpesvirus (feline herpesvirus-1) is a common virus in cats that causes upper respiratory symptoms like sneezing and eye and nose discharge. Very few cats will develop skin inflammation of the face associated with the virus.

Calicivirus Infections of the Skin

Another relatively common virus in cats that causes upper respiratory symptoms and oral problems like gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) or stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth).

Viral Papilloma

This is a virus that creates firm growths off the skin that can appear crusty.

Lack of Tear Production

If cats aren’t properly producing tears, it could result in a very dry nose, since tears from the eyes connect with and moisturize the nose.

Pemphigus Foliaceus

This describes crusty skin inflammation that typically occurs on the face, especially the underside of the ears.

Keratinization Defect

Although this is rare, this is an issue where a cat’s skin cannot slough dead skin cells appropriately and could potentially result in dry nose.

Cancer

Skin cancer (i.e. squamous cell carcinoma) can cause an ulcerated, red, raw nose in cats.

When to Worry About a Cat’s Dry Nose

Any cat with a dry, cracked, irritated nose should be examined by a veterinarian. A lot of different medical conditions could be the cause, and some get worse over time. 

Additional symptoms would give clues that pet parents need to seek veterinary care with more urgency. Symptoms could include:

• Fur loss or crusty skin lesions elsewhere
• Decreased activity (lethargy)
• Decreased appetite
• Eye or nose discharge

How to Treat Your Cat’s Dry Nose

A home remedy that can help some cats with a mildly dry nose would be petroleum jelly or petrolatum skin protectant, which is sold over the counter. As long as it is not a medicated ointment from the doctor, it would not be harmful for your cat to lick it—which she will certainly do! 

This can safely be applied several times per day. A thin layer is all that is needed—applying large quantities will not help any more than a small amount. 

Drinking more water will not help your cat’s irritated, dry nose. 

If your cat is experiencing any other symptoms besides just the nose, or the nose does not improve with petroleum jelly, other treatment is needed depending on the cause. 

Your veterinarian may run a couple tests initially such as a cytology, meaning gently brushing the nose and getting a sample onto a slide. If the nose issue is severe or continues after initial treatment, your veterinarian may recommend a biopsy. This consists of placing your cat under anesthesia briefly to take a very small piece of the outer part of your cat’s nose to send to a pathologist (a specialist at examining tissue). The pathologist will be able to provide a lot more information about what is causing the nasal issue.

Common therapies from your veterinarian to treat dry nose in cats may include:

• Topical antibacterial and/or antifungal ointments
• Oral antibiotics
• Oral antiviral medication (i.e. famciclovir in case of herpesvirus)
• Vitamin E (topical or oral)

Related Conditions 

• Upper respiratory infection
• Chronic rhinitis
• Ringworm (dermatophytosis)
• Eosinophilic granuloma complex
• Feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1)
• Calicivirus
• Mosquito bite hypersensitivity
• Viral papilloma
• Pemphigus foliaceus
• Squamous cell carcinoma

The post Cat Dry Nose: Causes and How to Help appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Cats also communicate with scents such as rubbing their cheek onto housemates, objects, or pet parents, or even by urine spraying.

The vocal forms of communication in cats are varied. Subtle differences between individual meows cannot be distinguished by humans but can be by other cats as well as other species. A single cat may have dozens of different meows with different meanings. Cat trilling, on the other hand, is luckily more straightforward.

What is Cat Trilling?

Cat trilling is a vocal form of communication that cats use to “talk” to other cats, to humans, and even to other animals (particularly within their household). It is a high-pitched, repetitive noise that comes out in short bursts. Trilling is also known as chirping. Cat trilling occurs with the mouth closed, not open like many other forms of vocalizing. 

Trilling is a natural social behavior with other cats, and kittens begin learning key social behaviors between 2 and 7 weeks of age. Kittens that were housed without other adult cats after the age of 6 weeks may never learn trilling.

Trilling vs. Other Cat Sounds

Trilling differs from other recognizable cat sounds like purring, meowing, yowling, and hissing. In order to better understand the differences, it’s helpful to know the three categories for cat vocalizations. They are as follows: 

Closed mouth. These vocalizations occur with the mouth closed and include trilling and purring. Purring is a constant noise, almost like a vibration. It can be a variety of pitches depending on the cat. Purring is associated with both positive associations such as pleasing attention from a pet parent, or extreme pain. Purring has been theorized to perhaps be a way for cats to seek care, although it is much more frequently tied to positive things. Unlike purring, which is a continual noise, trilling is characterized by short, repetitive, high-pitched noises. 

Open mouth then closed. These vocalizations are meows. The cat’s mouth is open for the meow but ends the noise by closing the mouth. Meows are similar in sound to how the word is pronounced—they can be long and drawn out or short. Meows are very nuanced. Each cat may have dozens of different meows with different meanings. Pet parents may learn some of their own cat’s individual meows. Mating calls from both females and males are also included in this category.

Open mouth. These are all fear-based or aggressive vocalizations made with the mouth open. Hissing, growling, yowling, snarling, and spitting occur with the mouth open. Hissing is a constant muted noise that is typically very short. Growling is typically a low-pitched, constant noise of varying length. Yowling is a very dramatic, sharp vocalization that almost sounds like a very loud meow but is more like a “raow”. Spitting is a very quick vocalization, only tenths of a second, that sounds like a rush of air and a person trying to pronounce the letter “F.” Spitting is often accompanied by some flying saliva, as the name would suggest.

Why Do Cats Trill?

Cats trill when they see or approach a familiar and well-liked person, cat, or other animal. Studies show it is specifically associated with positive and familiar situations (1). A person they know may be offering treats or bringing out a favorite toy, but the reason for the trill is the specific person, not the activity itself.

Keep in mind that just because a cat doesn’t trill does not mean a cat is unhappy or doesn’t like their pet parents. Some cats trill much more than others because they are generally more social cats. 

Hormones may also influence this type of vocalization, as female cats that are in heat (trying to find a mate) tend to trill frequently.

Cat Breeds That Trill

There are no cat breeds known for trilling more frequently than others. Cat trilling is a communication common to all cats, and different individual cats will trill more than others.

Cat Trilling All The Time: Should You Worry?

There should be no concern with a cat that trills frequently. Some cats are just more social than others! 

Trilling is a common, natural, and healthy form of communication from your cat. If your cat is female and intact (not spayed) she is likely to trill more frequently due to her hormones causing her to wish for a mate. 

On rare occasions, a female cat that was previously spayed and months later is heard to be trilling frequently may be experiencing symptoms of being in heat. Discuss any other symptoms of being in heat with your veterinarian, including vocalizing in general much more frequently and demonstrating a stance with her tail held high, front half of the body low, and back half of the body held up with the back feet moving slightly. 

These cats have what we call an ovarian remnant. Rarely a surgeon will mistakenly leave a very small piece of the ovary (organ that produces hormones in females) and it will continue to create hormones leading to heat cycles, even if the female cannot possibly become pregnant due to the lack of a uterus after spay.

The post Cat Trilling: Why They Do It and What It Means appeared first on Great Pet Care.

While nearly one-third of cats may not show symptoms of a UTI, others will become very ill. Cats often have an underlying condition that causes them to develop a UTI, so testing and investigation is critical. Read more to navigate this complex disease in cats.

What is a Cat Urinary Tract Infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is when bacteria (or very rarely a fungus) infects the urinary system. The urinary system consists of the kidneys all the way to the genital tract. Urine flows through the system in this order:

• Kidneys
• Ureters
• Bladder
• Urethra
• Genitalia (i.e. vagina or penis)

A urinary tract infection is not the same as cystitis. Cystitis refers to inflammation of the bladder, which is a relatively common condition in cats. Urinary tract infections only occur in 1-3 percent of all cases of cystitis in cats and are considered a rare condition. 

For unknown reasons, cats who are 10 years of age and older are much more likely to have a urinary tract infection than younger cats. No specific cat breeds are prone to UTIs.

Cats with a UTI often experience symptoms that make them very uncomfortable. Without appropriate treatment, infection can spread up to the kidneys. When this happens, a life-threatening condition called pyelonephritis can occur.

What Causes UTIs in Cats?

A cat’s urinary system is very good at preventing infection, and urine is typically sterile (without bacteria or fungi). 

In cats, the following conditions may lead to urinary tract infections:

• Systemic illness, such as diabetes mellitus, kidney failure or hyperthyroidism
• Stones or crystals in the urinary system (urolithiasis)
• Urinary incontinence (inability to control urination)
• Abnormalities in the structure of the urinary system such as conditions of the penis or vulva (genitalia)
• Hospitalization requiring a catheter to be placed into the bladder
• Use of medications that decrease the immune system

While diet is important to control some urinary issues in cats, it is not known to cause UTI. Since there are no breeds predisposed to UTIs, there is no evidence that genetics cause urinary tract infections.

Signs of a Urinary Tract Infection in Cats

Symptoms of UTIs in cats are similar to cystitis, since both conditions cause general discomfort in the urinary system. It is important to note that not all cats show symptoms—in one study of cats with a UTI, 35 percent of cats showed no signs (1). 

Below are the symptoms you might see:

• Urination outside of the litter box
• Change in frequency of urination (i.e. smaller amounts more frequently)
• Straining to urinate (i.e. standing in the litter box a long time and not urinating much if any)
• Vocalizing while urinating (meowing or howling)
• Change in color of the urine (darker yellow, brown or bright red)
• Increased drinking
• Increased volume (amount) of urine
• Change in normal behaviors – for example, hiding or eating less
• Licking genitalia more frequently (the area under the tail)
• Discharge from the vulva or prepuce (i.e. from the genitalia)

Diagnosing a Urinary Tract Infection in Cats

Veterinarians will need to run urine tests in order to diagnose this condition. A urinalysis is a basic first step to test the concentration of the urine and look for any abnormal cells or bacteria. Typically a veterinarian would note your cat’s urine has more water content (is more dilute) than usual, and may note blood, white blood cells (indicating inflammation), crystals and/or actual bacteria. 

Not all urine samples show obvious infection or bacteria. In one study, up to 25 percent of urine samples did not show any bacteria, but UTI was diagnosed using a urine culture (2). A urine culture is when the veterinarian takes a sample of urine directly from the bladder. This sample of urine is sent to a laboratory and put onto a special plate meant to grow bacteria. After a couple of days, if there are no bacteria growing, then there is no evidence of a UTI. If bacteria begin to grow, the laboratory will run further testing to see which antibiotics the bacteria will respond to.

Blood work is also important for cats with a UTI because underlying systemic conditions are usually involved. Because stones in the urinary system can be a cause (or effect) of infections, X-rays are a common test as well as ultrasound to view the urinary system.

Cat UTI Treatment 

Urinary tract infections require the use of antibiotics to treat them (or, in the very rare case of a fungal infection, antifungal medications). If underlying systemic conditions are also present, treatment of the other condition is also required to allow the body to fight off the UTI.

Medications to Treat Urinary Tract Infections in Cats

Common antibiotics used to treat cat urinary tract infections include:

• Amoxicillin (with or without clavulanic acid)
• Cefovecin (injection)
• Trimethoprim-sulfonamide
• Fluoroquinolones such as enrofloxacin, marbofloxacin or pradofloxacin

These medications are all available in pill or liquid form except for cefovecin, which is an injection. Most veterinarians will order liquid medications for pet parents to help with giving medications to cats. Some of the antibiotics need to be compounded, meaning specially made for your pet.

Cefovecin is not the best treatment choice for UTI in cats. It is an attractive option since one injection lasts for 10-14 days. But, cefovecin is not as effective against some of the types of bacteria typically seen in cat urinary tract infections. While it may not be the best choice, if a pet parent is unable to give medications by mouth to his/her cat, it may be the only choice available.

General Cost to Treat a Cat UTI

The cost to treat urinary infections in cats varies widely depending on what other underlying issues are present. To diagnose a urinary tract infection with veterinary examination will likely cost around $200-$300. 

However, other tests are typically needed to look for underlying reasons. These vary and can cost an additional $100 to $500, depending on what your cat needs.

Most veterinarians will recommend you return with your cat for a retest of the urine to ensure the infection is gone before antibiotics are over. This is a critical step, because if the infection is not gone when antibiotics are stopped the infection will immediately come back and perhaps get even worse than the first time. This re-test will likely cost an additional $200-$300. 

Some cats have crystals in their urine and possibly stones in their urinary system. If this is the case, your veterinarian will recommend a prescription diet. There are no over-the-counter diets that prevent crystals and stones. The cost of these diets is approximately $75-$100 per month and would need to be given for the rest of your cat’s life.

Holistic Remedies for a Cat UTI

There are many holistic remedies that are intended to decrease inflammation in the bladder. However, these remedies will not cure or appropriately treat a bacterial infection. Using holistic remedies along with antibiotics may help increase your cat’s comfort and decrease the chance of recurrence. Ideally, seek a holistic veterinarian for treatment. 

Examples of holistic treatments for a cat UTI include:

• High quality canned food diet (eliminate dry food diets)
• Cranberry extract
• Acupuncture
• Commercially available herbal therapies for cystitis
• Veterinary herbal therapies (like choreito)
• Chinese herbal therapies (like Ba Zheng San)

Please speak with a veterinarian before giving your cat any supplements or herbal remedies. If given incorrectly these remedies could be harmful for your cat.

How to Prevent Cats from Getting a Urinary Tract Infection

While not all urinary tract infections in cats can be prevented, there are steps you can take to help your feline avoid urinary issues.

Preventive measures may involve:

• Annual or biannual veterinary examinations to identify underlying conditions early on.
• Taking your cat to the veterinarian as soon as there are changes in behavior or medical status such as appetite or activity level.
• Treatment and long-term management of systemic illness.
• Surgery of the genitalia if there is abnormal structure.

Related Conditions

• Pyelonephritis (infection of the kidneys)
• Cystitis (inflammation of the bladder)
• Diabetes mellitus
• Kidney failure
• Hyperthyroidism
• Hyperadrenocorticism
• Urinary stones (urolithiasis)
• Urinary incontinence

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When this happens, you’ll take your cat to the veterinary clinic or hospital looking for a solution. Luckily, your veterinarian has just the medication to stop vomiting and decrease nausea in cats. That medication is called Cerenia.

What is Cerenia?

Cerenia is a medication that stops nausea and vomiting in pets. In 2007, Cerenia was approved by the FDA specifically for dogs who were vomiting or were going to experience motion sickness. It was the first and only antiemetic (stops vomiting) drug approved for veterinary patients, meaning that the medications used before were approved for human use or other conditions besides vomiting in pets. 

In 2012, Cerenia was approved by the FDA in cats as well as dogs. In 2016, the FDA approved the injectable Cerenia for not only subcutaneous (under the skin) use, but also intravenous (into the vein or bloodstream).

The Cerenia injectible is FDA approved in both dogs and cats. Cerenia tablets are only FDA approved for use in dogs, but many veterinarians prescribe them “off-label” for use in cats.

Cerenia can be given to cats who are 16 weeks and older to treat nausea and vomiting. 

This medication is widely available throughout the United States and the world. It is commonly stocked both in the injectable and tablet forms at general practices, as well as with specialists. Currently there are no generic options for this medication.

What Does Cerenia Look Like?

The tablet form of Cerenia is a small oval peach-colored tablet scored in the middle. A scored tablet is meant to be easily broken into two pieces with your hands, not requiring the use of any special tools. Each tablet has the letters “MPT” and the milligrams (mg) of medication stamped on it. 

Cerenia also comes as an injectable medication. The liquid is clear and not very viscous (meaning not thick).

How Does Cerenia Work?

Cerenia works on the source of vomiting in cats—the brain. There are two ways in which the brain triggers vomiting:

• A central pathway, which includes gastrointestinal (stomach or intestine) disease as well as fear or anxiety.
• A peripheral pathway, which includes toxins in the bloodstream or organ failure.

When either pathway is triggered, Substance P is released in the brain to grab onto NK1 receptors. When it does, an electrical current travels through certain neurons (connections) in the brain to signal the need to vomit. 

Cerenia binds to NK1 receptors, preventing Substance P from being able to grab onto them. No matter which pathway is triggered (no matter the cause), Cerenia will stop the brain from causing vomiting.

NK1 receptors are also part of the inflammatory cascade, meaning they are involved in creating inflammation. This has been specifically noted in pancreatitis, or disease in the pancreas. By binding to NK1 receptors, Cerenia appears to have some anti-inflammatory effects as well (1). 

What Is Cerenia Used for in Cats?

Cerenia is prescribed to cats with a variety of medical conditions. Low appetite and nausea are very common symptoms for the majority of illnesses your cat can have, and Cerenia specifically combats vomiting to allow your cat’s appetite to improve. 

Gastrointestinal disease, or disease that affects the stomach and intestines, is the most common type of disease to use Cerenia for.

Some of the common conditions Cerenia is prescribed for include:

• Upset stomach (for any reason)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Pancreatitis (disease of the pancreas)
• Chronic kidney disease (toxins cause nausea)
• Nausea due to anesthesia

Cerenia has also been recognized as an anti-inflammatory agent and has been used in some conditions such as chronic rhinitis in cats, or chronic inflammation and stuffiness in the nose. 

Cerenia Side Effects for Cats

Cerenia is a relatively safe drug that has a wide range of safety in dosing. Serious side effects are very rare. The only common side effect of Cerenia includes pain on injection, which resolves within seconds. Most veterinarians believe Cerenia injectable stings less if kept in the refrigerator.

The rare side effects of Cerenia can include:

• Diarrhea
• Anorexia (no appetite)
• Hematuria (blood in the urine)
• Hypersalivation (excessive drooling)
• Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis, or whole-body allergy (including swelling of head/face)

If your cat is given Cerenia and symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear, contact your veterinarian right away.

Reactions with Other Drugs and Medications

There are no known reactions between Cerenia and other drugs or medications used for cats.

Cerenia Dosages for Cats

The standard dose of Cerenia for cats who are vomiting is 1 mg per pound of body weight. For example, if your cat weighs 12 pounds, the appropriate dose would be 12 mg. Depending on your cat’s condition, your cat may be prescribed less or more than this dosing. 

With the injectable form, dosing can be very specific. However, if your cat receives the tablet form, your cat’s dose depends on the size of the tablet. The most common sized tablet of Cerenia used in cats is 16 mg. If your cat weighs 12 pounds, your veterinarian may prescribe 8 mg (half a tablet) or 16 mg (one whole tablet).

What if My Cat Misses a Dose of Cerenia?

If your cat misses a dose of Cerenia, he may vomit or have decreased appetite later that day since the medication stops vomiting and usually increases appetite. However, missing a dose of Cerenia will not be life threatening. If you have concerns, reach out to your veterinarian.

Cost of Cerenia for Cats

The most common sized tablet for cats, 16 mg, is approximately $5 per tablet. A box of Cerenia comes with 4 tablets, so you would expect to pay approximately $20 for a box. Depending on your cat’s size and his condition, you may spend $1.25 per dose (1/4 tablet) up to $5 per dose (1 tablet).

The injectable vial costs over $200. Because of its expense, each injection in an average-sized cat will cost at least $5 per dose, not including the syringe needed to inject it with.

Cerenia Storage Instructions

Cerenia tablets should be stored at room temperature. Once the foil for an individual tablet is opened, the tablet should be used within 2 days. 

Cerenia injectable should be stored at room temperature until it is used (punctured by a needle) for the first time. After that, the Cerenia injectable should be stored in the refrigerator. The injectable should be used within 90 days of first use and ideally punctured with a needle no more than 25 times.

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Studies show that cats infected with FeLV live shorter lifespans than cats without it. Because of the effects of this disease, it is important to protect your cat from infection. Vaccination can help with that, but it isn’t necessary for all cats. 

Read below to understand if your cat needs the FeLV vaccine.

What is the FeLV Vaccine?

The FeLV vaccination protects cats against the symptoms of feline leukemia virus. It was first created and placed on the market in 1985. This vaccine has been approved by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Pet parents can go to any veterinary clinic in the country and request the FeLV vaccine. This vaccination is not known to be required by any level of law in the US.

How Does the FeLV Vaccine Work?

After vaccination, a cat’s immune system creates a memory for a specific virus—both by producing cells that fight the disease and by producing immunoglobulins, important proteins that find the virus, stick to it, and signal the body to destroy it. 

If a cat is not vaccinated against a particular virus, his immune system will require days to weeks to mount an effective immune response when he is exposed to it. If, however, a cat IS vaccinated against a particular virus, his immune system will kick in within minutes to hours after exposure!

Some studies have shown that the FeLV vaccine may prevent symptoms (signs) of FeLV disease, but not necessarily infection. Testing of cats exposed to FeLV after vaccination shows the presence of proviral DNA of FeLV in the body. This is not an active infection, and the virus should not replicate or infect the cat. However, it is possible that in future years FeLV could begin to replicate (or grow) and cause FeLV disease. 

There are currently 2 different kinds of FeLV vaccination:

Inactivated virus vaccine: this means the actual virus in its complete form is altered in the laboratory so it can no longer infect cats—also known as “killed” vaccines.

Recombinant canarypox vector vaccine: This means an important piece of FeLV was placed into another harmless virus called canarypox. This live canarypox virus will express important proteins from FeLV that will then stimulate an immune response, but FeLV itself is not present in its entirety

Feline Leukemia Vaccination Schedule for Cats

Before any cat is vaccinated against FeLV, they need to be tested for FeLV. There are a variety of tests, and your veterinarian will choose the exact test based on what his/her clinic uses. If your cat tests positive for an infection, it is not recommended to vaccinate against FeLV. 

Every cat receives two doses for FeLV, 2-4 weeks apart. The duration of immunity—or the length of time that the vaccine protects your cat—is proven at 1 year in most vaccines. Studies have shown that several vaccines can provide 2 years of protection, but not all cats will experience full protection at 2 years. Your veterinarian will help you decide your cat’s level of risk and whether you can wait 2 years until the next vaccination.

Side Effects of the Feline Leukemia Vaccine

As with any cat vaccination, the FeLV vaccination can cause the following side effects:

• Local swelling and/or pain (vaccine should be given in the left rear leg)
• Decreased activity
• Fever of short duration
• Granuloma (non-cancerous growth from chronic inflammation)

In rare cases, cats can develop injection site sarcomas, a severe form of skin cancer that is very invasive and cannot be easily treated. Approximately 1 in 10,000 cats who are vaccinated will develop this disease. Other types of injections can cause this rare disease as well, such as long-acting steroids.

Speak to your veterinarian if you are concerned with this rare side effect. Ask your veterinarian where they inject vaccines in cats. An outdated veterinary practice was to give vaccines to cats in between the shoulder blades, and this is associated with a much higher risk of developing sarcoma. Vaccines should be given low on your cat’s hind leg (usually the left) or on the tail.

Manufacturers of the FeLV Vaccine for Cats

There are four licensed manufacturers of the FeLV vaccine in the U.S. They all create FeLV vaccines alone, as well as some create a combined product with other viruses. Either killed or canarypox vector vaccines are made. 

The following manufacturers make FeLV vaccinations:

Cost of the FeLV Vaccine for Cats

Individual FeLV vaccines will cost approximately $25-$35 each at a veterinary clinic. This does not include the examination fee at each appointment. Your cat will need to be tested for FeLV before receiving his first vaccine, which also generally ranges anywhere from $25-$40.

Does Your Cat Need the Feline Leukemia Vaccine?

Kittens are recommended by feline specialty groups to be routinely vaccinated against FeLV since they are most susceptible to contracting FeLV. Not every kitten will have exposure, however, so not every veterinarian will recommend vaccination of your kitten. 

After the first round of FeLV vaccination (2 boosters), whether or not your cat should be vaccinated 1 year later depends on if there is any potential for exposure to FeLV. Adult cats build natural immunity to the FeLV disease, so vaccinating adult cats should only occur if there is substantial risk of exposure to FeLV. 

Possibilities for FeLV exposure include:

• If your cat goes outdoors.
• If your cat spends considerable time on porches or at screened windows and comes into close contact with roaming cats/
• If you decide to adopt or purchase a new cat that is either FeLV infected or has not been tested.
• If you foster (temporarily care for) any cat whose status of FeLV infection is unknown.
• If your cat goes to cat shows.
• If you routinely board your cat.

Your veterinarian can help you determine whether your cat should be vaccinated against FeLV.

The post Feline Leukemia Vaccine (FeLV) for Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Read below to know this process well enough to successfully pick up almost any cat you come in contact with.

Picking Up a Cat: Why Technique Matters

Learning the appropriate way to pick up a cat—starting with the correct approach—is very important. Cats that experience stress may desperately attempt to get away if picked up awkwardly, resulting in a high level of fear and possible injury to the cat. 

Cats have some level of memory—while they will not remember dates, times, and exact details, a stressful event like being picked up wrong could leave a lasting impression against interacting with a particular person. 

Cats may even scratch or bite out of fear, so keeping yourself safe is another important reason to learn how to properly pick up a cat.

How to Approach a Cat

Every cat appreciates a proper introduction. First, approach the cat only if she is relaxed and when she is not asleep—it can be startling to be woken up. 

You can tell a cat is relaxed when:

• Her eyes are not open wide, and her pupils (the black center of the eye) are not super big or dilated
• Her body is in a relaxed position. For example, she is sitting or laying down calmly with minimal movement
• Her tail is still (not twitching)
• Her ears are facing forward
• Her fur is not on end, and the tail is not puffed up
• She is not growling or vocalizing loudly

If the cat you wish to pick up appears relaxed, approach the cat calmly and quietly. Speak in a normal voice—one that is not raised. You also shouldn’t approach with laughter or strange noises. Walk up steadily—don’t run or perform other quick movements.

The next step is to allow the cat the opportunity to sniff you. Hold out your hand fairly slowly and place it a couple inches from the cat’s face. Many times, cats will sniff your hand and choose what to do next. 

If you notice that she leans away from your hand, adjusts her body so she is now facing away or flinches, do not approach. The cat is trying to tell you she is NOT interested in any interaction whatsoever. If the cat does not sniff your hand and just stares, you should also not approach—cats that choose this are usually very tense and more apt to swat at you.

If the cat sniffs you and continues to appear relaxed, greet her appropriately by gently petting her a couple times on the top of the head and/or the cheek. Do not pet anywhere lower than the top of the head. Stop after a couple of pets and reassess her body language. Did her tail start to twitch? Did she open her eyes wide to stare at you? Did she sit up from laying down? If the signs of relaxation change, the cat does not wish for you to continue. However, if the cat appears relaxed still—and maybe even begins to purr—she is likely to accept more pets.

After several more pets on the head and face, run your hand gently and smoothly, once, from head to tail. If the cat’s relaxation changes—especially if she turns her head suddenly to stare at your hand, swats, opens her eyes wide, or tail or body twitches—she is unlikely to allow you to pick her up. If the cat appears unfazed, you might be able to pick her up!

How to Pick Up a Cat

Picking up a cat appropriately is more challenging than people realize. Read these steps to ensure the cat is comfortable and safe in your arms. 

Remember that with each step you should remain calm and quiet. Move smoothly and a little slower than you might normally.

 Step 1: Placement of your hands and arms. Place one hand and part of your arm under the cat’s front legs and the other underneath her back legs. She needs to feel supported under her rear end especially.

Step 2: Lift the cat. Once you lift her up, immediately bring her close to your body, against your chest or stomach. Do so as soon as possible during lifting, even before you have fully stood up.

Step 3: Hold the cat securely. Many times people will move to wrapping their arms around the cat. This is fine, as long as you continue to hold the cat against you, and her rear end is always supported. Some shy cats may choose to hide their face in the crook of your arm; allow them to do this.

Step 4: Continue monitoring body language throughout carrying the cat. While she may have enjoyed it initially, when a cat becomes tired of being held she will give cues such as tail twitching or thrashing, growling, tensing the body, squirming in your arms or stopping purring. If any of these things occur, put the cat down right away in a safe way (see the next step).

Step 5: Put down the cat in a quiet area away from activity. Even though cats can jump from high places, it is safer and more polite to assist the cat in meeting the height to which she is to jump. For example, if you want to set her on the ground, kneel down so she can jump from a lesser height. If you wish to set her on a surface, bring her close to the surface both in height and proximity. This is particularly important to avoid getting scratched by her back claws as is common for cats when they leap out of your arms.

How to Pick Up a Kitten

Kittens should be given the same process as is outlined above for all cats. Even though most kittens are outgoing and have less fear, ensuring they have a positive experience with being picked up is critical. Kittens form life-long assumptions and associations with experiences at a young age.

Kittens are more tricky to hold once they are picked up. If the kitten is small enough that you can use just your hands (not your arms) to lift them under their front and rear legs, this is appropriate and may offer better control. 

Kittens tend to squirm when in your arms for long periods of time, as they are very active. If a kitten becomes difficult to hold onto, immediately lower them safely toward a place to set them down. This is important to avoid frustrating the kitten, to avoid getting scratched, and to ensure you do not accidentally drop the kitten.

Mistakes to Avoid When Picking Up a Cat

The most common mistake made when people pick up a cat is that she gave clear signs she did not wish to be picked up. Watching body language each step of the way is key. 

Other common mistakes include:

• Picking up a cat before finishing the introduction process (i.e. allowing the cat to sniff then immediately picking them up)
• Picking up a cat by the scruff, or the skin on the back of the neck and shoulders
• Not holding a cat close to your body so she feels insecure
• Holding onto a cat too long
• Allowing a cat to jump out of your arms from a distance or considerable height
• Allowing children to carry a cat for long periods, incorrectly or unsupervised

Why Doesn’t My Cat Like to Be Held?

Not every cat likes being held. In fact, some pet parents are never able to hold their cat! 

It is natural for some cats to dislike being held and there may be no explanation. For other cats, this dislike could be because of a traumatic event in the past, or repeated negative interactions while being held. It could also be true that as a kitten this cat was not held often and has no experience with being held. Some cats do not like their stomachs touched for any reason and being picked up requires the stomach area to be touched. 

Some of these cats can be slowly conditioned (in a sense trained) to enjoy being held. Keep in mind that no matter what you do, never scold your cat during this process, as it will make matters worse. 

Follow these steps carefully and slowly. If at ANY time your cat bites or attempts to bite, howls, urinates or defecates on you or runs and hides for a considerable period of time afterward stop making these attempts. Some cats may never enjoy being held and you shouldn’t force it.

 Step 1: Find a favorite treat or toy. If there is a small piece of something to eat that is highly enjoyed such as tuna (cooked) or a particular pet store treat, use this. Some cats are not very fond of treats but are very interested in play – have a favorite toy on hand during conditioning. If using a toy as incentive, you must play with your cat for at least a couple minutes as her reward.

Step 2: Ensure a quiet environment. Only perform conditioning when there is limited to no other human or animal activity, in familiar environments (i.e. at home) and when things are generally quiet.

Step 3: Take time for introductions. Always start with a proper introduction, and if your cat’s response is that she does not want attention, do not force it.

Step 4: Lift and reward. Gently place your hands under the rear legs and behind the front legs, lift about 1 inch from the ground and immediately return her to her original spot. Immediately follow (within a couple seconds) with the treat or toy.

Step 5: Repeat. After this has been done several times, and you do not notice any signs of stress (i.e. biting, scratching, growling, hiding), try lifting several inches off the ground. Repeat the same steps as above and do this several times over.

Step 6: Hold your cat against your body. Once your cat seems comfortable with being lifted off the ground and rewarded, the next step is to pick up your cat and hold her against your body for a second. Do this and then return her to the ground safely to immediately receive her treat or toy. Do this numerous times, and do not move on until there are no signs of stress.

Step 7: Try a hold lasting a few seconds. The final step is to pick up your cat and hold her a few seconds, talking softly and petting her. Continue to repeat this process until she is held for longer and longer periods of time.

It is VERY important that if at any time during this process your cat shows signs of wanting to get down—such as squirming or growling—you must immediately put her down. Forcing your cat to stay in your arms may ruin the work you have done to condition her to tolerate or (hopefully) enjoy being picked up. 

The post The Right Way to Pick Up a Cat: A Step-By-Step Guide appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Catching liver disease early is the best way to help your cat. Read more to understand what causes liver disease, how to identify symptoms, and what it takes to treat your cat.

Liver Problems in Cats: An Overview

The liver is a very vital organ to your cat’s overall health. It breaks down nutrients from food into energy and medications into effective treatments. Vitamins and minerals are stored in the liver until a cat’s body needs them. It has many roles in metabolism—meaning the liver helps many processes that are crucial to staying alive.

The liver is found just underneath a cat’s rib cage. A muscle called the diaphragm separates the chest (with the heart and lungs) and the abdomen (with the liver, gastrointestinal system, kidneys, etc). Between the diaphragm and the stomach is the liver. The gallbladder is a structure within the liver, filled with bile that breaks down food. The liver looks like a round, smooth organ with reddish-brown coloration and multiple parts to it, called lobes.

Because the liver provides so many critical processes, if the liver is diseased, it affects the whole body. Energy from food declines, vitamins and minerals are unavailable, the body cannot effectively process medications, bleeding doesn’t stop, and more.

Types of Cat Liver Disease

There are four categories for types of liver disease in cats. These include: 

• Inflammatory
• Lipidosis
• Cancer (neoplasia)
• Infectious

All of these types of feline liver disease have extremely similar symptoms, so you cannot tell these apart based on how your cat feels. 

Inflammatory means there is inflammation somewhere in the liver. This can be primary or secondary. Primary inflammation means that the liver itself is the reason for the inflammation. However, the liver may be inflamed because of other conditions or even because other nearby or related organs are inflamed. The most common inflammatory liver condition in cats is called cholangiohepatitis, which is primary inflammation involving the gallbladder. These conditions range from mild to severe.

Hepatic lipidosis, also known as fatty liver disease, is when individual liver cells store too much fat, which stops the liver from being able to metabolize food for energy. While overweight cats are at a higher risk of developing this condition (due to having more body fat), cats of healthy weight can also develop lipidosis. When this condition is diagnosed, it is usually considered moderate to severe.

Cancer is a possible cause of liver disease in cats and is usually severe. 

Infectious liver disease can be caused by a variety of pathogens (viruses, parasites, and fungi) and is the least common cause of liver disease in cats. It can be mild to severe.

Cats can also suffer from cirrhosis of the liver, but it is rare.

Symptoms of Liver Disease in Cats

Liver disease commonly causes vague symptoms  in cats, such as a change in appetite and a change in behavior. 

A comprehensive list of possible symptoms include:

• Weight loss
• Decreased (or absent) appetite
• Decreased activity level
• Drooling and/or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Change in litter box habits
• Change in behavior (ex. Hiding)
• Yellow tinge to the skin and whites of the eyes
• Orange-tinged urine
• Enlargement of the belly (abdomen)
• Increased thirst and/or urination

One of the most specific symptoms of liver disease in cats is icterus, also known as jaundice. Icterus occurs when the skin turns a yellow tint as well as the white parts of the eyes. Icterus is due to a normal byproduct of the liver building up in the body. 

However, this process can occur for a couple other issues that do not directly involve the liver, so veterinarians cannot assume there is liver disease even with icterus. Testing is needed to confirm whether this is being caused by your cat’s liver. 

Causes of Liver Disease in Cats

One of the most common causes of liver disease in cats is cholangitis also known as cholangiohepatitis. As previously mentioned, this is due to inflammation and it encompasses 25 percent of all cases of feline liver disease. 

A theory for why this inflammation happens includes bacteria making its way from the gastrointestinal system to the bile ducts, infiltrating the gallbladder and biliary tree (connections from the gallbladder to the liver and intestines). 

There are several diseases that may cause secondary inflammation in the liver. For example, the liver can be inflamed due to pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) or inflammatory bowel disease (inflammation of the stomach and/or intestines). The pancreas, stomach, and (some of the) intestines are physically close to the liver inside a cat’s body.

Hepatic lipidosis is caused by any condition whatsoever that decreases appetite in cats. This means that almost any disease could technically cause lipidosis, since cats often experience a decrease in appetite when they are not feeling well. This condition is much more common in obese cats since they have higher stores of fat. Common causes of lipidosis include diabetes mellitus, obesity, pancreatitis, kidney disease, or severe stress. Diet is linked to many of these conditions, playing an important role in your cat’s overall health.

Liver cancer is less common in cats. The most common type of cancer affecting the liver is lymphoma (which can be found in many organs) or bile duct carcinoma (found specifically in the bile duct from the gallbladder). Some of these have chemotherapy options, but this depends on each cat’s specific condition.

Infectious diseases in cats can also cause liver disease. There are many pathogens that can affect the liver, including:

• Fungi like histoplasmosis
• Parasites like toxoplasmosis
• Protozoa like cytauxzoonosis
• Viruses like feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)

Diagnosing Cats With Liver Disease

Liver disease is usually diagnosed with blood work. After your veterinarian examines your cat and listens to your description of the symptoms you are seeing at home, they will strongly recommend blood work to evaluate your cat’s overall health. 

On blood work, there are several telltale signs that a cat’s liver is inflamed. However, routine blood work will not tell the cause of liver disease. There are specific tests for infectious causes, and your veterinarian may suggest these tests.

A biopsy is the most common recommended test to determine the cause of liver disease. Biopsy is when a surgeon retrieves a very small piece of an organ to send to a specialist (histopathologist) to review under a microscope. They can see individual liver cells this way. 

Biopsy requires surgery of some kind. Laparoscopy, or the use of a small camera to go inside the abdomen through a small incision, could be used. Most veterinarians do not have this equipment, so they will make an incision in the middle of your cat’s belly to take a very small piece of the liver. During surgery, culture of the liver or bile will determine what kind of bacteria could be causing cholangiohepatitis, which helps in choosing the correct antibiotic.

Ultrasound is a way of viewing the appearance of the liver without performing surgery. Ultrasound can help identify if there is a mass on the liver or what parts of your cat’s liver are affected. It is also used to examine other organs nearby that could be causing liver inflammation. However, ultrasound cannot necessarily give a specific cause of liver disease unless it is caused by secondary inflammation due to other organs nearby.

Cat Liver Disease Treatments

All cat liver disease, especially hepatic lipidosis, is treated with supportive care, meaning veterinarians treat the symptoms because we cannot treat the liver itself. By supporting our cat’s overall health, we give the liver time to recuperate on its own. 

Many times cats with liver disease are very dehydrated, so they may require hospitalization and IV fluids. Occasionally, if the liver disease is mild, cats can get fluids under the skin at one time instead of staying in the hospital. 

Another factor with liver disease is most cats do not wish to eat. Without food your kitty cannot recover, so some cats will require a feeding tube as well as medications to help appetite. This tube would either be placed in your cat’s nose or with a minor surgical procedure to sit on the side of your cat’s neck. Pet parents can provide nutrition through the tube instead of their cat needing to eat through the mouth.

The rest of the main causes of liver disease have more specific treatments. Liver disease may be treated with a variety of medications as well as supportive care.

Medications to Treat Liver Disease in Cats

Some classes of medications used in cats with liver disease include:

Antibiotics: Cholangiohepatitis requires treatment with antibiotics. Common ones include amoxicillin-clavulanic acid and enrofloxacin.

Antinausea medications: These decrease nausea and vomiting and should increase kitty’s appetite. Examples include maropitant or ondansetron.

Appetite stimulants: These directly increase appetite. Examples include mirtazapine or cyproheptadine.

Bile acid medications: This is generally recommended with cholangiohepatitis to decrease the chance of gallbladder stones. An example includes ursodeoxycholic acid.

Immunosuppressive medications: Steroids or other medications that decrease the immune system, thus decreasing inflammation in the liver. Examples include prednisolone and chlorambucil.

Pain medications: These may be necessary, particularly for cats with cholangiohepatitis or pancreatitis that can occur with liver disease. An example includes buprenorphine.

Promotility medications: These get the guts moving the right way to increase appetite. Examples include metoclopramide or cisapride.

Hepatoprotective medications: These decrease the toxic effects on the liver. Examples include S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) and silybin.

Supplements: Cats can benefit from vitamin B supplementation if their levels are low.

General Cost to Treat Liver Disease in Cats

Mild cases of feline liver disease can cost only between $300-$500. Most cases of liver disease are worse than mild, however. If your cat needs to be hospitalized, depending on how ill he is, the cost could be anywhere from $800-$3,000.

How to Prevent Cat Liver Disease

Some ways to prevent liver disease in cats include:

• Maintain your cat at a healthy weight.
• Visit the veterinarian yearly, and perform blood work when requested.
• Call your veterinarian as soon as you notice concerning symptoms, especially if your cat’s appetite has decreased or is absent.
• Administer parasite prevention as directed by your veterinarian.
• Keep your cat indoors so he cannot interact with cats unknown to you, cannot get parasites or ingest toxins.
• Keep all toxic substances locked up so your cat does not have access.

The post Liver Disease in Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Asthma attacks in cats can result in a life-threatening situation for our feline companions. While this condition is concerning, attentive pet parents can lower the chance of a full-blown attack if they notice subtle signs first.

Read on to know what symptoms to watch for, what causes feline asthma, and how cats with this condition are treated.

Can Cats Have Asthma?

Cats can definitely have asthma. Most veterinarians call it chronic allergic bronchitis in cats, because that phrase is a better descriptor of the disease. Chronic means ongoing—and for cats, this is a lifelong condition once it is diagnosed. Allergic means that this disease is caused by the body’s immune system overreacting to things it doesn’t like, such as cigarette smoke or dust. Bronchitis means inflammation of the small airways inside the lungs.

Asthma in cats is a similar condition to humans. Your cat’s body has a unique trigger, or allergen. This allergen sets off a chain reaction inside your cat’s lungs that results in constricted airways and an increase in mucus. For these reasons, it becomes difficult to breathe.

In some cats with asthma, they show subtle symptoms for a period of time before pet parents realize something is amiss. In other cats, they very suddenly experience an asthma attack. Each cat is unique in what triggers the issue, and how severe the asthma can be.

Causes of Feline Asthma

Asthma is caused by a cat’s immune system overreacting to allergens, or things that your cat breathes in that the body doesn’t like. Siamese cats are more likely to get asthma, with an occurrence of 5 percent. Besides this specific breed, there is no way to predict which cat will have asthma and which will not.

Allergens that have been identified as causes of asthma in cats include:

• Dust
• Cigarette smoke
• Mold
• Plants (weeds, trees, pollen, etc.)
• Parasites (i.e. lungworms)
• Cat litter
• Household chemicals (i.e. cleaning solutions)

Cat Asthma Symptoms

Most of the time, your cat’s symptoms are chronic or ongoing — they never go away and can be subtle or be pretty obvious. About ¼ of the time your cat’s symptoms are intermittent — the symptoms come and go, and it can be hard to predict when they will come back. It is important that all pet parents recognize these symptoms and monitor their cats closely, even if symptoms go away.

The most common symptom of asthma in cats is coughing. Cats rarely cough, and asthma is a typical reason—especially in a young or middle-aged cat.

Pet parents may also notice ongoing or intermittent signs such as:

• Noise (whistle, wheeze or congestion) when breathing
• Increased rate of breathing (perhaps only occasionally after exercise)
• Decreased activity or your cat stops exercise sooner than usual
• Change in behavior

When cats experience an asthma attack, the symptoms are much more obvious and your cat needs emergency medical attention. Symptoms of a feline asthma attack include:

• Audible noises when breathing (whistle, wheeze, congestion)
• Complete lack of activity and appetite
• Dramatic increased rate of breathing (>1 breath per second)
• Chest moves in and out dramatically with the belly too
• Open mouth breathing (“panting”)

What to Do During a Cat Asthma Attack

If you suspect your cat is having an asthma attack, take the following steps:

Step 1: If you are uncertain as to whether or not your cat is having an asthma attack, call your veterinarian. If they are closed, it is better to visit the emergency room than wait.

Step 2: Reduce your cat’s stress as much as possible. Place him into a carrier gently, coaxing him instead of pushing him in. Keep the carrier covered with a light breathable covering such as a pillowcase or towel. Keep the environment quiet while bringing him to an emergency clinic.

Step 3: Bring your cat to the nearest emergency hospital. Bring any medications he is currently on and report any symptoms that occurred before the asthma attack.

Step 4: If possible, call the emergency clinic while you are on your way to alert them that your cat is having trouble breathing. If this is not possible, the hospital will still tend to your cat swiftly.

Diagnosing Cats with Asthma

Cats with asthma are usually diagnosed based on history, a physical exam and most importantly X-rays. However, X-rays of a cat’s chest can be deceiving. Almost half of cats with asthma have very mild or even no signs on X-rays. But the majority (93 percent) have some change that is noticeable when images are reviewed by veterinarians. This is the best test to see what is happening in the lungs.

Your veterinarian will likely also perform other tests to rule out other possible causes of breathing problems in your cat. One cause could be lungworms, which require a special feces (poop) test to look for lungworm eggs. Bloodwork will likely be performed to evaluate how organs such as the kidneys and liver are doing and look for signs of inflammation.

An uncommon test that your veterinarian may perform is called bronchoalveolar lavage. This procedure involves putting sterile saline (a non-harmful fluid) into the lungs in a small amount, then sucking the fluid back out to be tested. This is more often done when an infection is suspected, or your cat is not responding to treatment very well.

It can be incredibly challenging to tell the difference between cats in heart failure and those having an asthma attack. Because the symptoms are similar, a cardiologist (heart specialist for cats and dogs) may examine your pet for heart disease with an echocardiogram, or measurement of the heart with ultrasound.

Feline Asthma Treatment

Treatment for a cat asthma attack involves emergency care, including oxygen and fast-acting medications to open the airways so your cat can breathe.

When treating your cat for asthma long-term, medication to decrease the inflammation in the lungs is important even if your cat does not always experience symptoms. Over time the inflammation in the lungs (even if mild) can cause permanent damage, so treatment is always warranted.

Medications to Treat Cat Asthma

Long-term medications to treat asthma in cats involve decreasing inflammation in the lungs. Your veterinarian may recommend:

Oral steroids (given by mouth): These medications are usually the first medication prescribed to cats after an asthma attack. Your cat will start out with a strong dose, and slowly decrease the dose to a level safer for long-term use. A common example is prednisolone.

Inhaled steroids: These medications are placed through an inhaler, which is connected to a system made especially for cats. Many cats can be acclimated to this inhaler, which looks like a small clear face mask. It may be safer than oral steroids for certain cats. A common example is fluticasone propionate.

Bronchodilators (given by mouth or inhaler): Occasionally cats that do not respond well to just steroids may also be given this medication, which directly acts on the airway to open it up. A common (by mouth) example is terbutaline.

Immunosuppressants (given by mouth): Occasionally cats that cannot be given steroids may be managed on this, which decreases the entire immune system including in the lungs. An example is cyclosporine.

Home Remedies for Cat Asthma

Holistic therapy is a safe therapy along with Western medicine, but holistic therapy itself will not be enough for your asthmatic cat.

Some examples of supplemental home remedies for cat asthma include:

• High-quality diet
• Acupuncture
• Herbal therapies (veterinary or Chinese)

There is no single herbal therapy that treats asthma in cats. Holistic veterinarians must examine each cat with asthma before prescribing a specific herbal or home remedy, as asthma is complex.

General Cost to Treat Asthma in Cats

If your cat is diagnosed with asthma but is not currently in an emergency situation, the cost for treatment could be anywhere from $400 to $600, depending on what kind of testing is required to determine a cause. Your cat may also need long-term medications to treat chronic asthma, which vary in cost.

If your cat experiences an asthma attack and requires emergency care, the cost could be anywhere from $800 to $2,000.

How to Prevent Feline Asthma

While not all cases of cat asthma can be prevented, you can take the following steps to help reduce your cat’s exposure to common allergens:

• Keep your home clean to avoid dust
• Stop any type of smoking in your home where your cat is exposed
• Address mold issues in your home right away
• Have your cat regularly tested for parasites and provide routine deworming
• Choose a low-dust cat litter
• Use a HEPA filter in your furnace and vacuum
• Switch out carpets for hard floor surfaces where possible
• Remove your cat from parts of your home where you are using strong cleaners, and don’t let them back in until the cleaning products have dried and the area has been well ventilated
• Don’t use essential oil diffusers or scented candles around your cat

Discuss with your veterinarian which cleaning solutions are safe to use around your pets, and only use these at the recommended dilutions and do not allow your cat to have direct exposure.

The post All About Feline Asthma appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Catching this condition early can limit how severe it gets. Because of this, every pet parent should read the following to understand more about the symptoms of megacolon in cats and how to get their cat help.

What is a Megacolon?

Megacolon is a relatively common condition in cats (but uncommon in dogs). The term megacolon means a large colon. A cat’s colon is located at the end of the intestines where feces is made before passing out of the body.

In cats with megacolon, the colon becomes larger or more distended than it should be. This slows down the passing of feces out and results in constipation, or the decreased ability to defecate. Many times, the feces becomes very firm, dry, and large when it does not pass out of the body. This is intensely uncomfortable for cats. In some cases, complete and severe constipation—known as obstipation—occurs.

This is a serious condition that requires a veterinarian to help your cat. It could be life threatening if your cat becomes so sick that he refuses to eat and becomes severely dehydrated.

What Causes Megacolon in Cats?

Over 60 percent of cases of megacolon are idiopathic, meaning the underlying cause is unknown. The smooth muscle in the colon that is responsible for pushing feces out does not function as well anymore. Oftentimes, multiple bouts of constipation occur first, stretching the colon even wider and damaging the inner layers of the colon important to a cat’s digestion and gut health.

While most cases of megacolon are found in mixed breed cats (61 percent), approximately 12 percent of cases are in purebred Siamese cats. Therefore, it is possible that genetics has something to do with this condition.

There are multiple other possible causes for megacolon in cats including:

A blockage: A physical issue blocking the passage of feces out of the colon. Examples include a foreign object, previous fractures of the pelvis (hip), or a cancerous mass.

Nerve problems: An issue with the nerves that are supposed to help control the colon’s function. Examples include an issue in the spinal cord or a congenital issue, meaning the cat was born with a lack of appropriate nerves to the colon.

Congenital hypothyroidism. This is rare, but cats born with hypothyroidism, or low thyroid hormone, may have stunted growth and other health issues on top of megacolon.

Symptoms of Megacolon in Cats

The symptoms of megacolon in cats are essentially the same as for constipation, but they are more severe and longer lasting. Once megacolon occurs, it is lifelong—not temporary like constipation.

The symptoms of megacolon include:

• Decreased or no feces produced – may see very small very firm pieces of feces
• Not using the litter box
• Straining to defecate (standing and pushing as though trying to pass feces)
• Vomiting
• Distended belly (increased in how round it is even when not eating well)
• Blood or mucus from the anus
• Decreased or no appetite
• Decreased activity level

Cats with megacolon can sometimes also have liquid diarrhea, which confuses pet parents. This can be because the inner lining of the colon is so inflamed and irritated that it produces diarrhea, which leaks around the large, firm feces stuck inside.

Diagnosing Megacolon in Cats

The most common way that veterinarians diagnose megacolon in cats is through X-rays. Your veterinarian will examine your cat and feel large, firm feces stuck inside. On  an X-ray, veterinarians can look for underlying causes for megacolon as well as measure the size of the colon. If the colon is not too large, your cat may just be constipated. But if his colon is very distended and abnormally large, your veterinarian will diagnose megacolon.

Bloodwork is often a good test to run when your cat is first found to be constipated. Sometimes underlying issues (such as kidney disease) cause dehydration (lack of water), which can lead to constipation. In rare cases, young kittens are born with low thyroid levels and bloodwork is the only way to measure that.

Occasionally more advanced testing will be recommended for megacolon. This can include a colonoscopy, which allows veterinarians to look for abnormalities in the colon with a small camera. Biopsies (small samples) can be taken to analyze for cancer, nerve issues, and other damage to the colon.

How to Treat Feline Megacolon

When your cat is severely constipated (especially if he’s obstipated) an enema is a required treatment. An enema involves putting your cat under anesthesia for a short time to place lubricating liquids into the colon. These liquids will help your veterinarian remove some of the feces as well as help your cat pass feces by himself later on.

There are several ways to manage megacolon long-term, which include:

• Medications to stimulate movement of the colon to pass feces
• Laxatives to make it easier to pass stool
• Increased water consumption (feeding canned food or giving your cat a drinking fountain)
• Increased fiber in food such as psyllium or wheat bran
• Prescription diets that have increased fiber for gut health
• Probiotics to support general gut health
• Acupuncture

Depending on your cat’s specific case, sometimes surgery to remove a mass is required. Some cats will not respond to medications and, for his long-term happiness, surgery is recommended. The surgery of choice for megacolon is called subtotal colectomy, which involves the removal of most of the colon to keep feces from getting stuck there. This surgery has a high success rate.

Medications for Megacolon in Cats

Medications to help treat megacolon in cats may include:

• Prokinetic medications that stimulate movement of feces out of the colon, such as Cisapride
• Laxatives that make stool softer, such as Polyethylene glycol or lactulose
• Probiotics that support gut health

General Cost to Treat Megacolon

The cost of treating megacolon varies significantly depending on your geographic location and the severity of the condition.

If your cat is having an episode of constipation for the first time, your veterinarian may only charge for general treatments. If your cat has evidence of megacolon or repeated constipation, your veterinarian will run several tests and provide several treatments to make your cat better. These tests and treatments are estimated in the $400-$600 range.

If your cat is obstipated and requires an enema, add an estimated $300-$600 on top of the $400-$600.

How to Prevent Megacolon in Cats

Megacolon is seen more often in cats that are stressed in the home or that do not have litter boxes regularly cleaned.

In order to help prevent megacolon:

Make sure your cat has access to fresh water. Provide plenty of fresh water and canned food to increase water consumption.

Keep your cat happy and stimulated. Provide essential environmental enrichment for your cat to limit stress and stimulate his brain and activity level.

Keep your cat’s litter box clean. Scoop all of your cat’s litter boxes every day, and empty and thoroughly clean the litter boxes at least every 2-3 months.

Call your veterinarian right away if your cat is constipated (not producing stool) for over 48 hours. Long-term constipation can lead to megacolon.

Related Conditions

• Constipation
• Obstipation

The post Megacolon in Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

“For most pets, the shelter in place is having a positive impact,” says Dr. Stefanie Schwartz, a board certified veterinary behaviorist and founder of CivilizedPet.com. “They are not home alone, or stuck in a cage like they might be on a typical work day.”

Now, more than ever, pet owners are able to shower their pets with attention and love–and vice-versa.

“Pets help us all to feel comforted in normal times, all the more reason we should give back to them in these unsettling times when we need them, and they need us even more,” says Schwartz. “Remember, if you have a pet, you’re not alone even in moments when it feels that way.”

Here are some ideas for how to pass the time with your pet while you’re at home.

Creative Activities For Dogs

Try searching games

“Try search games in your home—hide a toy or treat and let your dog track it down,” says Dr. Schwartz. “Some dogs are naturally good at this, others need some basic training like hiding something in plain sight, then hiding it under a pillow and gradually making it more challenging.”

Play “The Box” game

“Here, our objective is to see if we can get your dog to advance to the box (and maybe even sit in it) without saying a word. It is a shaping technique we use in animal training,” says Vivian Zottola, research associate at the Center for Canine Behavior Studies. “All you need is a box, pet training clicker, and food.”

Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Ensure the room has no distractions. Then, using a box your dog could easily walk into, place it on the ground in the middle of the room.

Step 2: Observe your pet and wait for them to notice the box. If they advance and stick their heads in, super! Mark the event with a clicker sound.

Step 3: Treat your pet AFTER the clicker sound you make.

Step 4: Wait again until your pet goes back to the box/looks into the box. Repeat the mark and reward each time.

Step 5: You can wait for the dog to offer a different behavior (perhaps sticking their head further in or stepping into the box), then advancing to sit in the box. Have fun!

Enjoy outdoor yard games

“Walks aren’t the only option for exercise,” says Dr. Terry Marie Curtis, clinical veterinary behaviorist at the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “If there is a fenced yard, there are lots of options–from walking around in the yard to setting up a little homemade agility course. For water-loving dogs, a kiddy pool can provide lots of fun.”

Put your dog’s nose to work

“Nose work is another good activity–especially for dogs who don’t have access to an outside yard. It doesn’t have to be complicated,” says Curtis. “It can take the form of hiding treats in boxes that are hidden around the house that the dog has to find. Puzzle toys can serve the same purpose–hide and seek!”

Try audio/visual engagements

“When considering how to keep your dog busy, consider some breeds (sight hounds) may enjoy watching things move about,” says Zottola. “Check out Dogtv.com for their on demand dog channel.”

And if your dog is stressed or anxious during this time, try implementing relaxing music.

“Filling the home with sounds including playing nature music (YouTube), soft classical or spa music on low volume helps,” says Zottola.

Creative Activities for Cats

Create a DIY puzzle toy

“Cats are known to eat 10-16 times per day,” says Dr. Melissa Bain, professor of Clinical Animal Behavior and Director of Professional Student Clinical Education at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. “You can purchase toys as well as make them.”

She recommends checking out the website Food Puzzles For Cats for reviews of store-bought options. But if you’re feeling crafty, the site also offers instructions for making your own cat puzzle toy at home.

Give felines a catnip challenge

“Catnip responsive cats will appreciate a little nibble,” says Schwartz. “Try hiding it under a bowl or plastic container so they have to work for it a little.”

Train your cat to high five

Now is a great time to start training your cat to do some basic tricks. And a high five is a great place to begin.

“Use positive reinforcement training, especially with a clicker or other unique sound that can mark the behavior,” says Bain. “Be sure to remain positive and don’t use punishment.”

All you need is a pet training clicker. Here’s how to teach your cat how to high five:

Step 1: Use a plastic golf ball or a ping-pong ball on the end of a chopstick, pen, or wooden dowel as a target. Hold the target where the cat can see it and click and treat when the cat looks at the target. Click and treat any movement toward the target, and then click for actually touching the target.

Step 2: Hold the target a few inches above the cat’s head, too high for your cat to touch with her nose. The cat will almost certainly extend a paw to try to bring the target to its nose. Click and treat just as the paw makes contact with the target.

Step 3: Move your hand down, so that on each subsequent trial your hand is closer to the ball end of the target. When your hand is nearly on top of the ball, remove the target and just use your hand as the target.

Step 3: The cat will put its paw up to your hand where the target used to be. Click and treat every attempt the cat makes to put its paw on or near your hand. Add the verbal cue “high five” when the cat is putting its paw up to touch your hand reliably.

Grab a brush and groom

“Many cats love to be groomed. When time is scarce, this activity tends to fall by the wayside,” says Curtis. “While owners are catching up on missed television programs, their cats can get a spa treatment just sitting in their laps.”

“Grooming your cat with a gentle tool and light pressure can become a lovely way to bond,” adds Schwartz.

The post 9 Creative Ways to Keep Pets Busy at Home appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Read below to understand what to look for, where they come from and what needs to be done to treat these parasites.

What is a Warble?

Warbles are a parasite that feeds on rabbits and rodents, such as rats. Their genus name is Cuterebra, which includes a variety of species. Technically, warbles are immature versions of the adult rodent bot fly called larvae.

Adult flies lay eggs at the entrance to burrows of rabbits and rodents. The eggs hatch when they sense body heat releasing very small worm-like larvae, and when a rabbit or rodent passes over them they stick in the fur. The larvae then crawl into any hole they can find–a wound, the nose, or even the eye. Warbles get into the tissues just below the skin and begin to grow, feeding on the rabbit’s tissues

After approximately 4 weeks, the warble becomes visible under the skin as an inflamed lump with a hole in the top for the warble to breathe from. Eventually, when the warble is big enough, it exits the rabbit and falls to the ground to finish turning into an adult fly. At this point, the warble is typically an inch long, 0.5 inch wide, and is gray-brown in color covered in small black spines.

What Causes Warbles in Cats?

Warbles affect cats when our felines spend time outdoors, exploring rabbit or rodent burrows. The larvae stick to the cat’s fur instead of a rabbit’s or rodent’s and follow the same life cycle. Any cat can get warbles at any age.

The most common place to find warbles on cats is just under the skin on the head or neck. However, they may migrate elsewhere in your cat causing more severe issues. Warbles can be found in the nose, inside of the eye, inside the throat, or even in the brain.

Are Warbles in Cats Contagious?

Warbles aren’t contagious between felines, but cats that spend time outdoors around areas where rabbits and rodents burrow are susceptible to warbles. The larvae may stick to a cat’s fur and then crawl into a cat’s nose, a wound, or into a cat’s eye.

Symptoms Warbles in Cats

There are many possible symptoms of warbles depending on where the warble is located in your cat. Keep in mind that when the warble first infects your cat, it is so small you likely won’t see it. After a couple weeks, symptoms are usually noted when the warble is larger.

Most of the time, the warble is found just under a cat’s skin and causes the following symptoms:

• Red swelling, approximately 1 inch wide with a hole in the top (there may be more than one)
• Moving gray-brown worm-like creature, seen through the swelling hole, covered in small black spines
• Possible foul-smelling, yellow-tan discharge
• Decreased appetite
• Decreased activity

If the warble makes its way into your cat’s nose:

• Frequent sneezing
• Oftentimes yellow-green nasal discharge
• Swelling of the nose
• Congestion
• Possible coughing

If the warble makes its way into your cat’s eye:

• Swelling of the tissues around and in the eye
• Pink or red-looking eye
• Eye discharge, often yellow-green
• Squinting
• Possible to see a worm floating in the front part of your cat’s eye (in front of the colorful iris)

If the warble makes its way into your cat’s brain and/or spinal cord:

• Blindness
• Uncoordinated walking (looks like your cat is walking drunkenly)
• Seizures
• Changes in behavior, including vocalization
• Head tilted to one side
• Walking in circles

Diagnosing This Parasite in Cats

Most of the time, a physical examination is all that is needed to diagnose warbles. Veterinarians will often notice a swelling with a visible worm inside of it and no special testing is required. However, sometimes the warble is hidden inside the cat and your veterinarian cannot see the worm. If this is the case, special testing may be needed to find the worm.

For example, if the worm is far into your cat’s nose, rhinoscopy–or a very small camera passed into the mouth and nose–would be necessary. If the warbles went into your cat’s brain, a CT scan or MRI would be necessary. These tests very carefully scan the brain and spinal cord of your cat while she is under anesthesia (unconscious). These special tests would be conducted at specialty veterinary clinics, and not performed at your routine veterinary clinic.

How to Treat Warbles in Cats

The first step of treatment is always removal of the warble, unless the worm is inside your cat’s brain. Removal will require pain medication and sedation depending on where the worm is located.

A veterinarian is required to remove the worm, as an incision will be made to provide enough space to carefully extract the worm intact. If the worm is broken or cut into pieces during removal, your cat’s body reacts very strongly and could set up a severe prolonged infection or anaphylactic shock. This is a serious medical condition where the whole body of your cat has an allergic reaction.

Medications to Treat Warbles in Cats

Antibiotics are typically prescribed to cats after removal of the warble to treat secondary bacterial infections caused by the trauma of the warble living inside your cat. If the warble is inside your cat’s eye, the warble will be removed and your veterinarian will prescribe extended treatment of the eye with antibiotic drops and steroids, either by mouth or drops in the eye.

If your cat has warbles in the brain, ivermectin is a medication given that will kill the worm and your veterinarian will give the injection. However, when the worm dies, it will cause a lot of inflammation in the brain as well as anaphylaxis (allergic reaction). Because of this, cats will likely receive diphenhydramine (an antihistamine to prevent allergic reaction) and steroids. Steroids may include prednisolone and dexamethasone. These medications are given by mouth.

General Cost to Get Rid of Warbles

The vast majority of the time, the surgery to remove warbles is minor if it is located just below the skin. The cost can range from $200-$600 depending on location of the warble and medications needed.

If the warble is inside your cat’s eye, your cat will need advanced surgery, long-term medications and many rechecks which can range from $1,000 to $3,000.

If the warble is inside the brain, your cat will need intensive care and the price varies widely depending on how ill your cat is. If she is hospitalized, an MRI is done to diagnose the disease, she is given medications and treated for allergic reaction. The cost for this treatment could range from $2,000 to $5,000.

How to Prevent Warbles in Cats

The only surefire way to prevent warbles in cats is to keep your cat indoors. This will prevent them from investigating rabbit and rodent burrows, which could allow coming in contact with botfly larvae. If your cat roams freely outside, you are unlikely to stop them from poking into burrows.

Some parasite preventatives may help reduce the likelihoood of warbles, when given regularly. Although these preventatives have not been tested for efficacy against warbles and are not labeled for this use, they may be able to kill botfly larvae before they begin developing under a pet’s skin.

The post Warbles in Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is a contagious disease in dogs characterized by a persistent cough of several days. Dogs with this disease contract it through exposure to other dogs. It almost always involves a mixture of multiple viruses and bacteria (multiple pathogens), which means that each dog’s symptoms and treatment needs will vary.

All of the kennel cough pathogens break down the lining of various parts of the respiratory tract, causing inflammation and infection. The respiratory system goes from the nose all the way to the lungs, including the nasal cavity (chamber of the nose), pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), and lungs. Inside the lungs, passageways for air called bronchi lead to smaller branches called bronchioles.

What Does Kennel Cough Sound Like?

Kennel cough usually sounds like a nagging and dry cough, which happens over and over for a short period of time. Most people describe the sound as a honk. In other dogs, the cough is deeper and sounds wet, so that you would imagine your dog producing phlegm (mucus) from inside his chest. Occasionally the cough is so persistent that your dog may appear to choke for a second, and you’ll hear a sharp hacking noise from the throat.

How Long Does Kennel Cough Last?

Each dog varies in how long kennel cough will last. It depends on the specific pathogens that your dog has, his age, and if he has other underlying medical conditions. The majority of dogs develop symptoms three to seven days after exposure.

Dogs tend to have kennel cough for seven to 14 days once they show symptoms. Treatment is not always warranted, but the length of time your dog appears ill will shorten with certain treatments. Most dogs can fight the infection at home with your help, but some will require a veterinarian visit.

Is Kennel Cough Contagious?

Kennel cough is very contagious between dogs, which means it can spread easily in shelter environments or in multi-dog households.

Luckily, the majority of pathogens involved in kennel cough are not contagious to other species besides dogs. However, there are three exceptions:

Canine parainfluenza virus (CPiV): Cats can be infected but will not show symptoms. This is important in that cats can spread the infection to other dogs or cats. This virus is not contagious to humans.

Canine distemper virus (CDV): This virus is found in dogs as well as ferrets and other wildlife. Your dog can spread this virus to those other species but not humans or cats.

Bordetella bronchiseptica: This bacterium can be spread to cats as well as humans, but this is very rare. Humans that get Bordetella from dogs have other medical conditions that severely decrease their immune system.

Kennel Cough in Puppies

Puppies are more susceptible to kennel cough than adult dogs because their immune systems are not yet mature enough to fight off all infections. For this reason, follow all vaccination protocols and veterinary recommendations for your puppy. Any puppy showing symptoms of kennel cough needs veterinary care right away.

Some of the pathogens associated with kennel cough are particularly bad for puppies. For example, the canine parainfluenza virus (CPiV) can cause neurologic disease (disease in the brain and spinal cord). In general, puppies are more likely to develop more serious diseases, such as pneumonia (lung infection), than adult dogs. At least 50 percent of young dogs with pneumonia have Bordetella (1).

How Do Dogs Get Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough exposure most often happens at boarding facilities, breeders, groomers, or animal shelters. It usually spreads by cough (aerosol transmission) or direct contact between dogs, such as play. Some pathogens are so potent that they can exist on items touched by an infected dog. If you do not properly disinfect that item, another dog can get pick up the disease from it. This is called fomite transmission.

Dogs will more likely to contract kennel cough if they are stressed (such as being housed in a boarding facility), unvaccinated (or out-of-date on vaccinations), or less than 1 year old.

Kennel Cough Symptoms in Dogs

The most common symptom of kennel cough may be a cough, but dogs will often demonstrate other symptoms as well, such as:

• Decreased activity
• Decreased appetite
• Fever
• Sneezing
• Nose discharge (clear or yellow-green)
• Eye discharge and/or redness

In some severe cases, dogs can display symptoms of pneumonia. Pneumonia affects your dog’s ability to breathe, so you may note:

• Lack of activity
• Lack of appetite
• Exaggerated breathing (the belly is working hard with the chest to move in and out)
• Fast rate of breathing
• Loud breathing
• Bluish tint to the tongue, lips, and gums

If your dog displays any of these symptoms of pneumonia, he needs emergency care.

Is Kennel Cough Serious?

Kennel cough is not often serious. For most dogs, it will subside without treatment. Because it tends to be more serious in puppies and unvaccinated dogs, get these types of dogs veterinary care right away if you note any symptoms.

Kennel cough becomes serious in dogs if it infects the lungs, since it affects your dog’s ability to breathe, but not all dogs will develop pneumonia.

Diagnosing Dogs with Kennel Cough

Veterinarians typically diagnose this condition presumptively by examination and history, meaning without tests. The majority of dogs present symptoms that respond well to general treatments, so testing is not necessary. In addition, testing for specific pathogens is rarely useful as it can be fairly inaccurate based on when in the course of disease the test is performed, as well as other factors.

X-rays of the chest may be a necessary test for your dog, depending on his symptoms. Your veterinarian will listen to the lungs with a stethoscope, and while this is important, it cannot diagnose pneumonia with certainty. X-rays will show if pneumonia is present, and treatment will change drastically if it is.

How to Treat Kennel Cough in Dogs

Veterinary intervention is not always necessary for kennel cough. Most dogs will recover without veterinary treatment, but they need their pet parents’ support. For example, if your dog’s appetite has decreased, you could offer him some plain cooked chicken (no bones!) and rice to entice him to eat until he is feeling better.

In some cases, a dog needs veterinary treatment for kennel cough because he is not eating and becomes dehydrated. In other cases, yellow-green nose or eye discharge indicates a bacterial infection that would go away much quicker with treatment.

You should bring your dog to the veterinarian if he is not eating for more than 24 hours, vomiting, experiences a significant decrease in activity, weakness, trouble breathing, yellow-green eye or nose discharge, or any other concerns that do not improve within 48 hours.

Medicine Your Vet May Recommend

None of the viruses that cause kennel cough have antiviral medications (medications that kill the virus). Antibiotics can kill the bacteria involved in kennel cough, but that’s not always necessary.

Types of antibiotics that may be prescribed include:

• Tetracyclines (doxycycline, minocycline)
• Azithromycin
• Enrofloxacin
• Amoxicillin

Many times, a dog’s cough is so persistent that your veterinarian may recommend something to decrease it.  If the cough is severe, your veterinarian may choose to prescribe an opioid for your dog. However, veterinarians rarely prescribe this treatment. In fact, it may actually prolong the cough since opioids may decrease the flow of phlegm out of your dog’s chest.

Ask your veterinarian about cough suppression options. DO NOT give your dog any medication without consulting your veterinarian first.

General Cost of Treatment

For most dogs, an examination and medication to go home with will cost approximately $100-$200. If your veterinarian deems x-rays necessary, add an additional $150-$300 depending on the size of the dog and severity of symptoms.

If your dog develops pneumonia, he may be required to remain in the veterinary hospital for intensive care. The cost varies depending on where you live as well as how severe his disease is but can range anywhere from $500-$3,000.

A few other things that may help your dog recover from kennel cough include a home humidifier and antitussives (cough medicine) prescribed by your veterinarian. An average home humidifier costs between $20 and $200, while antitussives range between $30 and $50. 

General costs to treat kennel cough in dogs are related to the examination, testing, and medications prescribed. The exam and medicines range from $75 to $200, while x-rays and lab testing fluctuate between $200 and $500. 

Pet health insurance such as MetLife Pet Insurance may help take the sting out of the costs of treating your dog’s kennel cough. Many plans can help cover the cost of medical expenses related to unexpected accidents or exposure to illnesses such as kennel cough.

How to Prevent Kennel Cough

There are multiple ways to prevent kennel cough, the most important of which is vaccinating your dog and keeping him up-to-date on his vaccines. Ensure your dog’s latest vaccine was at least two weeks prior to bringing him to the dog park, groomers, or boarding facility.

Avoid interactions with other dogs that appear sick. Choose a boarding facility, breeder, and/or groomer that offers fresh air requires all dogs to be appropriately vaccinated by a veterinary clinic.

Relevant Vaccines

There are two vaccines commonly used that are effective against kennel cough: distemper (DAPP) and Bordetella (Bordetella bronchiseptica). According to the AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines:

Distemper is a core vaccine required for all dogs. It protects against the pathogens CDV, CAV-2, and CPiV, as well as canine parvovirus (a severe disease of the gastrointestinal tract). Starting at 6 weeks of age, puppies will receive an injection every two to three weeks until they are 16 weeks old, again one year later, and then every three years. Adult dogs will receive one injection, then one year later, and then every three years. Side effects may include soreness at the injection site lasting one to two days. More serious reactions are exceedingly rare.

Bordetella is a non-core vaccine, meaning it’s not required for all dogs. It protects against Bordetella bronchiseptica. It is given as an injection or drops in the nose (the drops may be combined with protection against other viruses). Dogs will receive a booster every year. If an injection is given, it MUST be boostered two to four weeks after the first dose, then every year after. Side effects may include soreness at the injection site lasting one to two days. More serious reactions such as full body allergy are rare. You may notice sneezing, clear eye or nose discharge a couple of days after your dog gets drops in his nose. These symptoms will only last a few days.

There are two vaccines available against canine influenza, covering two different strains. Veterinarians recommend them infrequently, and only for dogs in high risk areas. Outbreaks occur sporadically across the United States. Talk to your veterinarian for more information on whether this non-core vaccination is necessary for your dog.

Related Conditions

• Conjunctivitis (eye infection)
• Upper respiratory infection (URI)
• Pneumonia

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Dandruff can be uncomfortable and indicate something more serious or painful is occurring. Read below to understand the process behind dandruff, causes of dandruff on cats, and ways to treat it both at home and with the help of your veterinarian.

Can Cats Get Dandruff?

Yes, cats can experience dandruff, just like humans can. For both cats and humans, the skin cycle involves cells being made deep in the skin, becoming more and more superficial (or close to the surface) until the cells die, harden, and slough off in small flakes. In fact, skin has many many layers of dead skin cells waiting to be sloughed! It acts as a natural protective layer for everything else inside the body.

Dandruff is when the cells of the skin die, harden, and slough off more rapidly than normal. This can be caused by something as simple as dry air or as serious as skin cancer.

Most cats do not show obvious symptoms related to dandruff. But in some cases, there are signs, usually related to itchiness.

What Causes Dandruff in Cats?

Dandruff occurs when a cat’s skin is either traumatized or off balance from the inside out. Oftentimes, something on the skin is causing inflammation such as parasites or infection. Other times, something internally causes an imbalance in the nutrients to the skin, the oils in the skin, and the skin’s normal cycle. Below are more common causes of dandruff, as well as some uncommon and even rare causes.

Common causes of dandruff in cats:

• Obesity
• Poor grooming
• Parasites (i.e. fleas, mites, or feline lice)
• Ringworm
• Allergies – either topical (reaction to something that touched the skin) or generalized (typically to the environment, food or fleas)
• Infection (i.e. yeast or bacteria)

Less common causes of dandruff in cats:

• Poor nutrition
• Poor environmental conditions (very dry and/or not clean)
• Endocrine disorders (i.e. hyperthyroidism)
• Cancers such as skin lymphoma (rare)
• Keratinization disorder, when the outer layer of the skin sloughs abnormally (very rare)

Poor grooming is a generic but very common cause of dandruff in cats. Anything that could decrease a cat’s grooming is serious and requires attention, as grooming is a natural and stress-reducing activity for cats.

Senior cats can experience dandruff due to poor grooming for a couple reasons. Arthritis in the back can make it uncomfortable for cats to turn around and groom their backs. Senior cats are also less active and more apt to become obese. Obese cats often cannot physically reach their entire body to groom.

Symptoms of Dandruff in Cats

Dandruff on cats looks like it does on humans. It appears as very small, white flakes coming from the root of the fur toward the tip. In excessive cases, much bigger pieces of dandruff may be visible.

It is typical for cats to have some dandruff—it is a natural process, after all. However excessive dandruff will have the following characteristics:

• Dandruff is clearly visible across the whole body
• Dandruff is clearly visible from a couple feet away
• Amount of dandruff increases
• Size of the dandruff flakes gets larger
• Your cat licks the air or a part of her (like her front legs) when you pet or scratch a certain area

Symptoms that can occur along with cat dandruff include:

• Fur loss
• Unkempt (messy, greasy) fur coat
• Very small crusts on the skin (stuck to the skin, not flaking like dandruff)
• Skin redness
• Frequent grooming
• Clumps of fur around the house
• Odor to the fur/skin
• Weight gain/obesity
• Weight loss

Occasionally mites known as Cheyletiella are mistaken for flakes of dandruff. The nickname for the mite is “walking dandruff.” If you watch closely, you can see the mites moving with the naked eye. Luckily these are not super common and are usually found on cats living in crowded conditions with other animals, such as breeders, groomers, or animal shelters.

Diagnosing Dandruff in Cats

Dandruff is diagnosed based on a veterinarian’s exam. If there are any other symptoms from your cat or the dandruff seems excessive, your cat needs to see a veterinarian.

A complete physical examination is important to look for changes in the skin other than the dandruff, as well as any other abnormalities. Your veterinarian will also weigh your cat and evaluate if she needs to lose or gain weight.

Testing is very important in determining the cause of dandruff in cats. Typically, your veterinarian will perform a couple specific skin tests. These tests include:

Skin scrape: This test looks for the presence of mites.

Ringworm culture (DTM): This skin test looks for ringworm, a fungal infection of the fur.

Cytology: Veterinarians will look closely at dandruff flakes to ensure they are not actually mites. Cytology also looks for bacteria or yeast from the skin. Technicians may use clear tape to get their sample.

Trichogram: During this test a cat’s fur is plucked, looking for mites or ringworm.

If these skin tests do not reveal anything, and your veterinarian notes other concerns after examining your cat, other tests may be recommended.

Bloodwork is a common way to look for underlying health issues. Biopsy involves anesthetizing your cat briefly to take a very small piece of skin and send it to a specialist to examine.

Allergies are often related to cat dandruff. While there are blood tests that can help determine the cause of allergies, definitive testing usually requires a skin specialist (a dermatologist). Most of the time, allergies are diagnosed through trial and error. For example, if your cat is treated for fleas and the symptoms and dandruff go away, your cat is likely flea allergic.

How to Treat Dandruff in Cats

Dandruff in cats can signal an underlying health problem, so if your cat has excessive dandruff, she should be seen by a veterinarian. For mild cases of dandruff in cats—where no other symptoms are present—there are some home treatments that can help.

Home Remedies for Dandruff in Cats

If your cat is not showing any other symptoms, trying home remedies for dandruff may be worthwhile.

Possible home remedies may include:

• Feeding a high-quality commercial diet. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.
• Increase the humidity in your house in cold-weather months.
• Try omega-3 fatty acid supplements for cats, which are available over the counter.
• If your cat is obese, measure the amount your cat is eating and very slowly decrease the total amount of food by 10 percent whenever your cat is the same weight for 2-3 weeks.
• Groom your cat regularly. Ask a grooming professional or your veterinarian to safely remove matting as soon as it forms.

If your cat’s dandruff worsens at any time, or if you notice appetite changes, behavioral changes, or skin problems like fur loss, you should bring your cat to the veterinarian right away.

Veterinary Treatments for Cat Dandruff

If you’re concerned about your cat’s dandruff, schedule an appointment to see your veterinarian. There are several vet-recommended products and prescription medications and shampoos that help get rid of feline dandruff.

Veterinary treatments for cat dandruff may include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (free form fatty acids found in veterinary products, more potent than over-the-counter products)
• Flea/mite preventive medications
• Topical products containing fatty acids and oils (to hydrate the skin)
• Topical spray-on products that combat yeast or bacterial infections
• Shampoos meant to decrease shedding of skin (seborrheic or keratinolytic)
• Other medications by mouth such as antibiotics, antifungals, supplements

General Cost to Treat Dandruff in Cats

The cost of treating dandruff varies considerably depending on where you live as well as the underlying cause of the dandruff.

If your cat has a flea allergy or mites and requires a couple months of topical medication, along with a veterinary examination you may only spend $100-$200.

However, if your cat has a chronic condition such as allergies or a yeast infection treatment for dandruff and the underlying condition may be more costly. The examination, testing, and long-term medications can cost closer to $300-$500 at the beginning of treatment.

How to Prevent Cat Dandruff

Preventing dandruff in cats can be accomplished in some cases. Here are some tips for keeping your cat’s skin healthy:

• Feed a high-quality commercial diet.
• Avoid obesity by controlling the number of calories your cat eats.
• Use flea preventives monthly.
• Provide plenty of enrichment, or activity, to keep your cat stress free.
• Brush your cat daily if there are areas she cannot reach for grooming.
• Provide increased humidity in the winter or drier months.

If your cat shows any symptoms such as weight loss or change in appetite, seek veterinary attention right away.

Related Conditions

• Obesity
• Fleas
• Cheyletiella (mites)
• Ringworm
• Allergies
• Yeast infection

The post All About Dandruff in Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Read more to understand this complex condition and what symptoms to watch for.

What Are Cat Respiratory Infections?

The respiratory system in cats goes from the nose all the way to the lungs—including the nasal cavity (chamber of the nose), pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), and lungs. Inside the lungs are passageways for air called bronchi that get smaller and lead to bronchioles.

The lining of the whole respiratory system contains cells that secrete mucus, or the thick gooey material you are familiar with from blowing your nose or coughing. When an infection is in the respiratory system of cats, the cells lining the system become inflamed and produce a larger amount of mucus.

Common Types of Cat Respiratory Infections

There are generally two types of respiratory infections in cats: upper and lower respiratory infections. 

Upper respiratory infections affect the nasal cavity, throat, and voice box. 

Lower respiratory infections affect the windpipe and lungs, including the bronchi. This can be called bronchitis or pneumonia. 

Some cats develop an infection that affects both upper and lower respiratory systems at the same time.

Infections can be caused by a variety of pathogens including:

• Viruses
• Bacteria
• Fungi
• Parasites

Symptoms of Cat Respiratory Infections 

Upper respiratory infections are much more common in cats, and while they can make our kitties feel ill, they are not as serious as lower respiratory infections. Oftentimes symptoms overlap, so it can be difficult to distinguish between upper and lower respiratory infection on symptoms alone.

Generally speaking, symptoms for upper and lower respiratory infections are listed below.

Symptoms of Cat Upper Respiratory Infections

• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion (stuffiness, so that you can hear your cat breathing)
• Runny eyes or nose (can be watery or yellow-green discharge)
• Change in voice (the meow sounds different or hushed)
• Swallowing more dramatically
• Mild to moderate decrease in activity or appetite

Symptoms of Cat Lower Respiratory Infections

• Cough
• Increased effort to breathe, noted by dramatic chest movements
• Wheeze when breathing out
• Lack of appetite
• Moderate to severe decrease in activity
• Respiratory distress – panting (breathing loudly with mouth open), belly and chest moving dramatically to breathe

Causes of Respiratory Infections in Cats

Most cat respiratory infections are caused by viruses. Viruses are contagious from cat to cat and are usually spread by sneezing and from discharge of the nose or eyes. Even if the cats do not come into contact with one another, if a sick cat sneezes on an object and another cat interacts with the object, the virus could be spread. 

The most common viruses include:

• Feline herpesvirus-1 (also known as feline viral rhinotracheitis)
• Calicivirus

Bacteria is commonly found in cats with respiratory infections, but oftentimes it is not the primary cause. A virus or other pathogen usually causes the infection first. Kittens are more likely to have infections caused by bacteria because their immune systems are not fully mature. 

The most common bacteria that cause respiratory infections in cats include:

• Mycoplasma spp.
• Bordetella bronchiseptica
• Chlamydophila felis

Fungi can also cause respiratory infections, but it is not as common of a cause as viral or bacterial infections. Fungi infections are obtained from the general environment—in dirt or pools of water outside, for instance. 

The most common fungi include:

• Cryptococcus
• Blastomyces
• Aspergillus
• Histoplasma

Parasitic infections are also uncommon, but important causes of respiratory infections. Most parasitic infections come from eating prey species such as birds or rodents. 

The most common parasites include:

• Lungworms (Aelurostrongylus or Capillaria)
• Cuterebra botfly larva

Cats that have a compromised immune system, or lack of protection in the body against infections, are more frequently affected by respiratory infections. Reasons a cat may be more susceptible include:

• Young age (kittens)
• Old age (senior cats)
• Chronic medical condition of the respiratory system (such as asthma)
• Chronic medical condition of other systems (anything from chronic kidney disease to feline leukemia virus)
• Inadequate care, such as poor diet or lack of vaccinations/veterinary care
• Crowding with other cats

Diagnosing Your Cat 

An upper respiratory infection is most commonly diagnosed on physical examination by a veterinarian. Because symptoms overlap with lower respiratory infections, your veterinarian may recommend X-rays (radiographs) to confirm the infection is not in the lower respiratory tract. 

To determine the cause of the upper respiratory infection, your veterinarian may take a cotton-tipped swab and put it inside your cat’s nose. Occasionally, when infection is severe, your veterinarian may take a small biopsy from the inside of the nose which requires anesthesia and a minor surgery. Some specialized blood tests can be used to try and look for certain fungal infections.

A lower respiratory infection is most commonly diagnosed on X-rays at a veterinary hospital. Physical examination by a veterinarian can help determine the severity of the infection. To determine the cause of infection, your veterinarian may recommend what is called a wash. It is a procedure under anesthesia when sterile fluid is flushed into the lungs for a very short amount of time then suctioned gently back out. Specialized blood tests may be needed as well.

Treatment for Cat Respiratory Infections

There are various treatments for each specific cause of respiratory infections in cats, such as antibiotics for bacteria and antifungals for fungi. There is rarely treatment for viral infections available. 

Treatment is most dependent on the severity of symptoms and if it involves the upper or lower respiratory tract. Many cats with respiratory infections do not eat well and may be dehydrated, so treatment must ensure kitty is getting enough fluids and nutrients.

Severe lower respiratory infections may require hospitalization and additional oxygen that will help your cat breathe easier. If you notice symptoms of a lower respiratory infection in your cat, he should be brought to the veterinarian immediately.

Medications for Cat Respiratory Infections

Depending on the cause of your cat’s respiratory infection, your veterinarian may recommend one of the following medications:

Antivirals: These come in pill form and are used against viral infections. An example includes famciclovir.

Antibiotics: These come in pills, liquids, or injections. They are used against bacterial infections and may help a cat recover from a virus more quickly. Examples include doxycycline, enrofloxacin, azithromycin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid.

Antifungals: These medications are available in pill or liquid form and are used against fungi infections. Examples include itraconazole, fluconazole.

Antihelminthics: Used to treat parasitic infections, this medication comes in a liquid or powder form, or is available as an injection. Examples include fenbendazole, ivermectin.

Home Remedies for Cat Respiratory Infections

If your cat has symptoms of a lower respiratory infection, there are no home remedies that can help, and it could be a life-threatening emergency. If you see any signs of a lower respiratory infection, take your cat to the veterinarian and do not attempt to treat your cat’s symptoms at home.

If you cat has an upper respiratory infection, here are a few home remedies to help with the symptoms:

Keep your cat’s face clean. Remove debris or discharge from your cat’s face to keep him comfortable. 

Use saline drops in the nose. Saline can be purchased at any pharmacy and it decreases nasal congestion. Ask your veterinarian before using saline drops at home. 

Provide steam showers. Place your cat in a small bathroom and turn the shower water on hot to create a lot of steam. This decreases nasal congestion

Warm up tasty food. Many cats with respiratory infections do not eat well because they cannot smell the food. Purchase multiple kinds of cat food, warm it up, and offer it to your feline to entice eating.

General Cost to Treat a Cat Respiratory Infection

An upper respiratory infection can cost as little as $100 to treat by having your kitty examined by a veterinarian and given medication. If your cat is feeling ill and requires a lot of treatments such as fluids to rehydrate, an upper respiratory infection can cost $300 or more. With uncommon causes such as fungal causes, the medication is expensive and given for a long time, increasing your total spending to $500 or more. 

A lower respiratory infection costs more, since it involves the lungs, impacts breathing, and can be a life-threatening condition. Hospitalizing your cat, performing tests, and keeping your kitty in an oxygen chamber can cost $1,000 or more depending on your geographic area and the severity of your cat’s infection. Occasionally, if the infection is mild or caught very early, you may be spending closer to $500.

How to Prevent Your Cat From Getting an Infection

Prevention of respiratory infections mostly involves providing your cat a healthy lifestyle to support his immune system. Supporting your cat’s immune system means providing routine veterinary care, decreasing stress, and providing a quality diet at home. 

Routine veterinary care (at least every year) is very important for preventing disease. One of the most important prevention methods is vaccination with the FVRCP vaccine, also known as distemper vaccine in cats. The “FVR” portion of the vaccine stands for feline herpes. The “C” portion of the vaccine stands for calicivirus. The vaccine should be given yearly to start, followed by every three years afterward. It is given either as an injection under the skin or droplets into the nose. Another type of prevention is giving monthly preventative against common parasites and yearly deworming.

Avoid allowing your cat to interact with other cats of unknown health status, as some of the infections that cause respiratory infections are contagious. 

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How do you know if your cat has herpes? And how is it prevented or treated? Read below to understand this complex condition.

What is Feline Herpes?

Feline herpes is caused by feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1), also known scientifically as feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR). This virus infects cats and uses the cat’s own cells to make more of the virus. Because of this, herpesvirus is very challenging—if not impossible—to treat.

Once herpesvirus has infected a cat, most cats will be infected with the virus for a lifetime, including inside cells of the nervous system (in nerves). During times of stress, cats will develop symptoms again and again.

Is Feline Herpes Contagious?

Feline herpes is contagious. The virus spreads through respiratory fluids such as saliva and discharge (boogers) from the nose or eyes, including when a cat sneezes. 

Herpes can spread through direct contact (when cats interact with each other) or indirectly. The most common cause of indirect contact is people—when a person pets a sick cat, then pets a healthy cat. Indirect spread also occurs when objects are contaminated with the virus. If a sick cat eats out of a food bowl, and then a healthy cat eats out of the same food bowl, the healthy cat could get herpesvirus.

Feline herpes is very specific to cats. Cats cannot give it to humans, to dogs, or to any other species of animal. 

Feline Herpes Symptoms

The symptoms of feline herpes vary widely, and each cat will experience herpesvirus differently. Whether your cat has herpes for the first time, or the virus is causing illness after a stressful event, most symptoms are those of an upper respiratory infection (URI).

Symptoms of URI related to feline herpes include:

• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion (stuffiness, so that you can hear your cat breathing)
• Runny eyes or nose (can be watery or yellow-green discharge)
• Mild decrease in activity or appetite

Herpes in cats can also cause some more uncommon conditions. 

If your cat has any of the symptoms below, talk to your veterinarian right away:

Keratitis, or inflammation of the front (clear part) of the eye.

• Redness or puffiness of the eye
• Holding the eye closed some or all of the time
• Aversion to bright light (looks away or quickly closes the eye)
• Cloudiness to the eye

Dermatitis, or a skin condition, usually of the face.

• Redness of the skin, possibly raw appearance
• Fur loss
• Itchiness (rubbing the face frequently)
• Crusts or “scabs” on the face/neck

Stomatitis, or painful inflammation of the mouth.

• Halitosis, or bad smelling breath
• Decreased appetite, or becoming picky
• Avoiding dry food or hard treats
• Pawing at the mouth especially after eating or chewing
• Chewing primarily on one side of the mouth
• Unkempt fur coat from not grooming well
• Very small amount of blood on food or water bowls or hard toys

Causes of Cat Herpes

When cats are young (less than 2 years old), their immune systems are not fully mature yet. This means they are more likely to get infections such as feline herpes. 

Cats are more likely to contract feline herpes when they are:

• Kitten age (less than 1 year old)
• Unvaccinated
• Born to an unvaccinated queen (mom cat)
• Living in stressful conditions, such as crowding with many other cats
• Lacking in quality care, such as high quality diet and enrichment

Realistically, the vast majority of cats are exposed to the virus when they are very young and many will carry it for the rest of their lives. 

If a cat develops symptoms of herpesvirus, it usually occurs following a stressful event. This could include a move, a visit to the veterinary clinic, guests staying over, a change in the home, or when you are on vacation. Symptoms of the virus can occur at different stressful times throughout a cat’s life.

Diagnosing Your Cat with Feline Herpes

Feline herpes can be diagnosed by using special testing that is sent to a laboratory. Most of the time, the test used is called polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This PCR test detects the presence of the genetic material (DNA) of the virus even in small amounts. 

However, even healthy cats can have herpesvirus show up on this test, so PCR tests are not a reliable diagnosis on their own. 

Because testing is challenging to interpret, most of the time veterinarians will rely on clinical symptoms and knowledge of a stressful event to diagnose a likely herpes infection. If a veterinarian notes the common symptoms of herpes, such as sneezing and watery eyes, herpes is high on the list of possibilities.

With uncommon conditions such as stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth) or dermatitis (skin changes), a biopsy is required to diagnose the cause as herpes. A biopsy is when a very small piece of tissue is surgically removed and sent to the laboratory for further testing. 

Herpes Treatment for Cats

For most cats with herpes, time is usually all that is needed. Keeping your cat’s stress levels low will help her get rid of the symptoms associated with the virus. Allowing your cat to stick to her usual routine, allowing your kitty to hide somewhere secluded when guests come over, and offering quality cat foods to tempt her appetite will help. 

The virus will typically subside in about 7 to 10 days, especially if the stressful event is over and your cat is at home resting comfortably. If your cat isn’t eating as well or is much less active, though, a veterinary visit is required to make sure she is hydrated and getting enough calories each day.

Medication for Feline Herpes

When cats are not very active, are very congested, or have a lot of yellow-green discharge from the eyes or nose, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics. This will eliminate any secondary bacterial infections. Antibiotics may help shorten the course of disease

Depending on your cat’s symptoms, your veterinarian may prescribe either antibiotics by mouth or into the eye. The best choice of antibiotics by mouth for an upper respiratory infection include doxycycline and azithromycin. Some choices of antibiotics in the eyes include erythromycin, Terramycin, tobramycin, or ofloxacin.

While antibiotics may help shorten the length of time your kitty is feeling ill, they will not treat the virus itself. A very common antiviral medication taken by mouth in cats to kill herpesvirus is called famciclovir. It has limited side effects and is most often used when cats have one of the more uncommon conditions, such as keratitis, stomatitis or dermatitis. It may also be used when cats have chronic (ongoing) symptoms related to herpes such as chronic congestion or eye infection.

General Cost to Treat Cat Herpes

If your cat is not feeling well overall, your veterinarian will examine your cat and determine if additional treatments are needed, such as fluids for dehydration, anti-nausea medications to stimulate appetite, or antibiotics. These treatments can cost $100-$200, depending on how ill your cat is and where you live.

If your cat has one of the more uncommon conditions, testing and treatments may cost much more. For example, treating keratitis (the eye condition) may cost $500. Treating stomatitis (the mouth condition) may cost more like $2,000 as it involves advanced dental surgery, testing, and many medications.

How to Prevent Feline Herpes

In many cases, feline herpes can be prevented. The most important prevention method is vaccination with the FVRCP vaccine, also known as  the distemper vaccine for cats. The FVR portion of the vaccine stands for feline herpes. The vaccine decreases the chance of infection, but also decreases symptoms of herpes that may occur when your cat is chronically (life-long) infected with herpes. 

Even when your cat is an adult, keeping her up-to-date on this vaccination is beneficial. The vaccine should be given yearly to start followed by every 3 years. It is given either as an injection under the skin or as droplets into the nose.

The next best thing you can do to prevent feline herpes is decrease stress in your cat’s life. While this is not always possible, all pet parents should try to do the following for their cats:

• Feed a high-quality diet
• Keep a consistent routine
• Provide safe places for your cat to hide 
• Supply a variety of toys that changes at least weekly
• Offer various forms of enrichment (entertainment) such as cat videos or ways of stimulating the senses like cat grass or catnip
• Introduce new people and pets slowly and carefully  

Related Conditions 

• Upper respiratory infection (URI)
• Keratitis
• Corneal ulcers
• Dermatitis
• Stomatitis
• Calicivirus

The post All About Feline Herpes appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Read more to understand why cats get lice, how to tell if your cat has lice, and what the treatment entails.

Can Cats Get Lice?

Yes, cats can get lice. Lice are small insects without wings, and measure about 1-2 mm in length. If you look closely, you can actually see lice moving about on cat fur. They are usually off white to tan in color. 

The one species that infests cats (and cats only) is known as Felicola subrostratus. Its nickname is the feline chewing louse.

Can You Get Lice from Cats? 

Each species or type of lice is very picky about what type of animal it infests. So no, humans cannot get lice from cats, and cats cannot get lice from humans. Same story with dogs and cats—they cannot share lice. 

However, cats can spread lice to other cats, dogs to other dogs, and humans to other humans.

Symptoms of Lice on Cats

Lice essentially live off of debris on the skin, so cats experience intense pruritus, or itchiness, from the lice chewing on their skin. 

Symptoms may include:

• Frequent scratching or chewing of themselves
• Fur coat that is not well groomed, appears generally unkempt
• Off-white specks seen on cat fur, especially on the head and shoulders
• Scratches or irritation and redness on the skin (from excessive scratching)
• Fur loss (sometimes)

How Do Cats Get Lice?

Lice is mostly spread through direct contact, meaning the cats have to actually touch each other. It is also possible to spread lice through indirect contact. If lice eggs end up on a brush or other grooming supplies it is possible to spread lice to another cat if the item is not cleaned properly. This is less likely than direct contact because lice dries up and dies when not with the host. The longest length of time these insects can live without their host is seven days.

Cats typically get lice when living in poor, dirty conditions indoors or outdoors. They must live around other cats in order to contract the parasite. When cats live in poor conditions, they often suffer from a poor diet and lack of medical care, which leads to the development of a number of other medical concerns as well.

Diagnosing Cat Lice

While you may be able to see lice on your cat with the naked eye, it is impossible to positively identify whether the insect on your cat is lice without a microscope. A veterinarian will note symptoms consistent with lice and likely see insects on your cat’s fur. 

A simple test for lice consists of using regular clear tape to stick some of the insects off of the fur onto the tape. Sometimes a veterinarian will pluck a few hairs from your cat that have insects or eggs attached. A quick look under the microscope of either sample will identify lice.

Cat Lice Treatment

Lice is fairly easy to treat on an individual cat. Certain flea products will kill the adult lice but not their eggs. Since eggs take two to three weeks to hatch, it is important that a cat with lice be treated two or three times, every two weeks to get rid of the infestation. Talk to your veterinarian about the best products and instructions for treating lice on your cat. 

Bathing your cat is not necessary to get rid of the lice.

Home Remedies for Cat Lice

Home treatments are not very effective in controlling cat lice. Some home remedies include washing the cat with dish soap or combing the cat thoroughly. These methods do not physically remove all the lice, do not kill the lice, and will likely leave behind eggs that hatch, releasing new adult lice onto your cat.

Controlling lice in a home will not be possible unless all cats are treated effectively for lice, the home is cleaned, and all the bedding is washed and dried. 

If you find lice on your cat, your home likely needs cleaning before lice can be controlled. Products meant to control fleas in the home will be effective against lice. Any bedding or linens the cat comes into contact with should be washed and dried, as the high temperatures dry out and kill lice. Any tools used for grooming cats, such as brushes, should be thoroughly cleaned. 

Medications Used to Treat Cat Lice

Flea products that contain any one of the following will be highly effective in killing lice:

• Fipronil
• Imidacloprid
• Selamectin

Some of these products require veterinary approval and prescription, while others do not. Regardless of what product you use on your cat, it is very important to be sure that the product is labeled specifically for cats, NOT dogs. If your cat is given a dog product, it could be deadly.

General Cost to Treat Lice on Cats

Flea products cost approximately $15 per dose, so treatment of each cat will cost approximately $45. With a veterinary examination and quick microscope test, your total costs will be approximately $150.

Keep in mind that some cats may have other underlying medical conditions or, if they have matted fur, may require professional grooming that will add to the costs.

How to Prevent Cat Lice

Applying a monthly flea preventive onto your cat will prevent fleas as well as lice infestation, even after direct exposure. All cats should be fed a high quality diet, and their home should be generally clean and tidy. Regular veterinary care on a yearly basis will ensure that your cat stays healthy.

The post All About Cat Lice appeared first on Great Pet Care.

The following is a comprehensive look at this condition in cats.

What is Heart Failure?

Heart failure is when the heart can no longer fill and pump blood to the rest of the body well enough. Without emergency treatment, it is deadly. 

Heart disease in cats can lead to heart failure if not managed, or if the disease gets worse over time. Heart disease consists of a variety of issues that affect how well the heart functions, but they do not require emergency treatment.

There are two types of heart failure in cats. One is heart failure as described above. The other is congestive heart failure. Congestive heart failure occurs not only when the heart has failed, but the lungs begin to fill with fluid.

Symptoms of Heart Failure in Cats

Cats are very good at hiding symptoms of illness, and that is no different in cases of heart failure. Because of this, many pet parents do not notice the earlier signs of heart failure until their cat is in an emergency situation. 

Early symptoms of heart failure in cats may include a decrease in appetite, being less active or hiding more than usual. 

With heart failure, subtle and specific symptoms include:

• Exaggerated breaths when looking at the chest or belly (which may not be constant)
• Need to take breaks or a fast breathing rate after exercise and play (exercise intolerance)
• Not as active (lethargy)

Congestive heart failure has more obvious symptoms, because the lungs are filling with fluid which makes it difficult for a cat to breathe. Usually pet parents notice symptoms once heart failure has progressed to being congestive. 

Symptoms may include:

• Complete inactivity
• Fast breathing rate (constant, but worse with stress or movement)
• Increased abdominal effort (visible movement of the belly with each breath)
• Laying with chest on the ground and the head up
• Open-mouth breathing or panting
• No appetite
• Enlarged belly
• Cough (rare)

What Causes Heart Failure in Cats?

Heart failure can be caused by a variety of conditions. These conditions generally fall into three categories:

Cardiomyopathy. The muscle that makes up the heart, responsible for pumping blood out of the heart, is diseased.

Valvular disease. The valves found inside the heart that control the flow of blood into and out of the heart are diseased.

Vascular disease. The major blood vessels leaving or going to the heart are diseased. This type is related to changes in blood pressure.

The majority of conditions that eventually lead to heart failure are either caused by genetics (inherited from the cat’s parents) or the cause is unknown. 

Keep in mind many heart conditions do not often lead to heart failure, such as valve dysplasia. Valve dysplasia means a cat was born with an unusually shaped valve, and the majority of these cats live full lives with no evidence of heart disease.

There are several breeds of cats that are more often affected by heart disease because of their genetics. These include:

• Maine Coon*
• Ragdoll*
• Birman
• British Shorthair
• Norwegian Forest Cats
• Siamese
• Sphynx

*These two breeds are more commonly recognized as being affected by heart disease, supported by several studies on genetics. (1) (2)

Diagnosing Heart Failure in Cats

Diagnosing heart failure must include imaging including X-rays or ultrasounds. However, in an emergency situation, a cat who is struggling to breathe cannot go through imaging right away as any additional stress could be deadly. Many times veterinarians have to work carefully with your cat and initially make an assumption that your cat has heart failure based on a physical examination alone. 

Your veterinarian will perform blood tests. Basic bloodwork is important to rule out other possible causes of your cat’s symptoms and to recommend safe medications. There are two specific blood tests for the heart: 

• Cardiac Troponin 
• ProBNP

Both of these may be used to look for evidence of heart disease, but they cannot diagnose heart failure with certainty.

Two other important and common tests are monitoring your cat’s blood pressure and conducting an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG). This test involves placing small clips on your cat’s skin in various places to measure electrical signals that go through the heart. It is used to evaluate the rhythm of the heart, which may need to be treated if abnormal.

Once your cat is stable, imaging will be performed to evaluate the heart. There are two main types of imaging, including:

• X-rays (also known as radiographs). Veterinarians can see the size of the heart and condition of the lungs. X-rays are not very specific to identifying heart disease.
• Ultrasound. Veterinarians can look very closely at the heart and lungs. Echocardiogram is an ultrasound performed by a heart specialist (cardiologist) to look for specific heart disease. 

Treatment for Heart Failure in Cats

Heart failure is not a curable disease. While heart failure itself can be resolved in some cases, underlying heart disease cannot be cured and may cause the heart to fail again in the future. 

Oftentimes, heart failure is manageable. For cats that have fluid in the chest or in the belly, fluid removal will be performed to allow your cat to breathe easier. If fluid is removed from the chest, it is called thoracocentesis. If fluid is removed from the belly, it is called abdominocentesis. Some cats will require a few of these procedures and other cats may only undergo one procedure. 

Your veterinarian will likely give a pain medication to your cat beforehand, but it is no more painful than a small injection at the doctor’s office. 

After a cat has been diagnosed with heart failure, medications will be prescribed to improve the heart’s ability to fill and pump blood to the rest of the body. Each cat’s response to medication is different, and there are many types of heart disease possible. Therapy may not be the same between two cats. 

Diet should also be addressed, including discussion of how much salt is in your cat’s current diet.

Prognosis for Heart Failure in Cats

Prognosis varies widely depending on what type of heart disease your cat has, how severe the heart’s condition is, and if other conditions occurred with heart failure such as thromboembolism. 

The life expectancy for cats in heart failure ranges from 3 to 18 months after diagnosis.

Medications Used to Manage Heart Failure in Cats

Common medications used to manage heart failure in cats include:

• Diuretics, such as furosemide. These medications drain the extra fluid that is filling the chest.
• Pimobendan. This medication affects the heart muscle, allowing it to fill the heart with more blood and pump more effectively.
• ACE-inhibitors, such as benazepril. These medications cause blood vessels to dilate so more blood can pump out of the heart, and blood pressure is lowered.
• Antithrombotics, such as clopidogrel. These medications prevent clots from being formed in the heart, which can leave the heart and clog important vessels elsewhere in the body.
• Antiarrhythmics, such as diltiazem. If your cat has a heart rhythm issue, one of these medications may be prescribed to correct it.

Pimobendan, furosemide, clopidogrel, and benazepril are available as FDA approved drugs, and, when appropriate for your cat as determined by your veterinarian, compounded forms. If you have trouble giving your cat a tablet, some of these medications may be available in alternate dose forms, such as an oral liquid, that can be made by a compounding pharmacy for easier administration.

General Cost to Treat Heart Failure in Cats

Heart failure requires emergency care, a hospital stay for a minimum of 24 hours, tests, and medications. If your cat is diagnosed with heart failure, you should expect to spend more than $1,000. 

This is highly variable depending on where you live and how severe your cat’s condition is. The cost is higher if your cat visits the cardiologist to have the specific heart disease (the specific cause of heart failure) diagnosed.

How to Prevent Heart Failure in Cats

The only prevention for heart failure is to work with your veterinarian on identifying heart disease before it becomes heart failure. Unfortunately, there are no symptoms associated with heart disease itself that pet parents would recognize. 

If your veterinarian identifies a heart murmur during routine physical examination, it may not indicate significant heart disease but tests need to be performed to determine the cause of the heart murmur. 

Keep in mind that a lack of a heart murmur does not indicate a lack of heart disease. If your cat is a breed known for developing heart disease, speak with your veterinarian about having your cat tested. 

Related Conditions 

• Cardiomyopathy (typically hypertrophic)
• Aortic Thromboembolism (ATE)
• Renal Disease in Cats
• Feline asthma (bronchitis)
• Arrhythmia in Cats
• Hypotension in Cats
• Hypertension in Cats

Covetrus encourages the use of an FDA approved product whenever possible, within a valid veterinary-client-patient relationship (VCPR). However, we realize that in order to achieve a desired therapeutic outcome, a customized compounded preparation may be necessary. Covetrus compounding pharmacies, a fully PCAB accredited pharmacy with compliance to USP 795/797/800 standards along with a registered cGMP 503B outsourcing facility means you can be confident in the quality of every medication order.

The post Heart Failure in Cats appeared first on Great Pet Care.

Cystitis can be frustrating, as it has many different causes and treatments. In addition, cats with cystitis require lifelong management. 

The following is a comprehensive guide to understanding cystitis in cats.

What is Cystitis?

Cystitis means inflammation of the bladder. There are many causes for this, and it results in a lot of discomfort for our cats. Cats often show this discomfort with a change in their urination habits. 

There are several types of cystitis that affect cats, including:

• Sterile cystitis: No bladder infection present.
• Urinary tract infection (UTI): Bladder infection present.
• Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC): A condition where cats have bladder inflammation recurring due to stress and possibly low water intake; also called interstitial cystitis.

What Causes Cystitis in Cats?

There are many causes of cystitis in cats, including:

• FIC (Feline idiopathic cystitis)
• Bacterial infection
• Bladder stones (urolithiasis)
• Urethral plugs (debris blocking the ability to urinate)
• Rarely cancer or incontinence (lack of control of urination)

Bacterial infection is rare in cats. When bladder stones are present, they will increase the risk of bacterial infections and may one day cause your cat to stop being able to urinate. Urethral plugs typically occur in male cats, and require an advanced procedure to flush it out so your cat can urinate.

Crystals in the bladder (crystalluria) are not a cause of cystitis, but may occur along with cystitis. These crystals will exacerbate symptoms and cause your cat’s cystitis to occur over and over again. 

Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) is the cause of cystitis in over half of cats diagnosed with the condition. Each cat diagnosed with FIC requires his own treatment plan. 

The main factors associated with developing FIC are:

• Male cats
• Overweight
• Pedigreed breed (any)
• Stress in the home

Stress in the home can include moving, new people visiting or moving in, lack of environmental enrichment, significant change in your cat’s environment, and conflict with another cat.

Symptoms of Feline Cystitis

When people describe urinary tract problems, they feel a constant urge to urinate and a lot of discomfort. Cats with cystitis experience the same discomfort, and you may see the following symptoms:

• Urination outside of the litter box
• Change in frequency of urination (i.e. smaller amounts more frequently)
• Straining to urinate (i.e. standing in the litter box a long time and not urinating or urinating very little)
• Vocalizing while urinating (meowing or howling)
• Change in color of the urine (darker yellow, brown or bright red)
• Change in normal behaviors (i.e. hiding or eating less)
• Licking genitalia more frequently (the area under the tail)

Cats may experience these symptoms of cystitis repeatedly. With FIC, the stress that causes it may be apparent, such as a new pet or fighting between cats in the home. 

Some cats with cystitis are unable to urinate, due to a blockage. They will experience severe pain, lethargy (low activity) and anorexia. Without treatment, a urinary blockage is life threatening.

If your cat is straining to urinate, and you have not noted any urine from your cat for 12 hours, seek veterinary care immediately. 

Diagnosing Cystitis in Cats

A veterinarian examination, followed by testing, is required to diagnose cystitis in cats. 

Specifically, a veterinarian will obtain samples of urine from your cat. Often, this is done with a small needle, punctured through the skin and directly into the bladder. This process is called cystocentesis. 

A technician will then examine the urine under a microscope, looking for proof of cystitis as well as possible complications, such as urinary crystals.

Some cats with cystitis urinate so often that their bladder is empty and your veterinarian cannot obtain a sample via cystocentesis. If this is the case, you may be asked to collect a cat urine sample at home. 

To collect a urine sample, your veterinarian may provide a type of litter that will not absorb your cat’s urine. You will need to save a sample of this urine in a small container and place it immediately in the fridge until you can bring it to your veterinarian. The sooner you bring the sample to your veterinarian, the better. It must be less than 24 hours old to be accurate. 

There are certain causes of cystitis that require more advanced testing and your veterinarian may recommend one or more of the following: 

• X-rays – A good way to look for bladder stones (urolithiasis). 
• Ultrasound – Another type of imaging looks at the bladder more closely than x-rays, and may reveal stones, crystals, or tumors. 
• Urine culture – Urine is sent to a laboratory to test for bacterial infection, and takes a couple days for results. 
• Bloodwork – Your veterinarian may also recommend general bloodwork to rule out other issues such as kidney disease.

How to Treat Cystitis in Cats

If you cat has a more serious form of cystitis, involving the inability to urinate or stones, he may require surgery. Sometimes the surgery needs to be done right away in an emergency setting.

If surgery is not necessary, feline cystitis requires lifelong management to prevent the recurrence of symptoms. It is rarely fully curable. 

A couple of steps commonly used to manage cystitis in cats include:

Increased water intake – Common methods include feeding canned food only (no dry food), ensuring unlimited access to clean water, and installing a cat water fountain to encourage more drinking.

Prescription diets – These urinary diets manage crystals if present and may reduce stress.

Increased enrichment – Providing a variety of interesting things for your cat’s senses, including a variety of scratching surfaces, cat-friendly scents, a variety of toys changed weekly, and playing with your cat daily.

Weight loss – This may be recommended if your cat is overweight.

Modification of your household – This may be recommended to keep cats from fighting. This requires behavioral advice from your veterinarian and/or a behaviorist.

Increase in litter boxes – The quantity of litter boxes in your home should equal the number of cats + 1.

Daily cleaning of litter boxes – Daily litter box management and cleaning is an important step to maintaining urinary health. 

Medications for Cystitis in Cats

When your cat is having symptoms of cystitis, your veterinarian may prescribe a variety of medications that are specific to your cat’s test results and level of discomfort. 

These medications may include:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) – Used to treat pain and inflammation in the bladder.
• Pain medications (besides NSAIDs)
• Antibiotics
• Behavioral medications – Used to treat anxiety or stress.
• Polysulfated glycosaminoglycans (PSGAGs) – Injections and/or medication in food.

Home Remedies for Cystitis in Cats

There are many holistic remedies for cystitis that are intended to decrease inflammation in the bladder. 

However, these remedies will not work without a veterinary assessment for issues such as infection or crystals. Ideally, seek a holistic veterinarian for treatment.

Examples of holistic or home remedies for cystitis in cats include:

• High-quality canned food diet
• Acupuncture
• Pheromone therapy to decrease stress in specific rooms
• Commercially available herbal therapies
• Veterinary herbal therapies (like choreito)
• Chinese herbal therapies (like Ba Zheng San)

Please speak with a veterinarian before giving your cat any supplements or herbal remedies. If given incorrectly these remedies could be harmful for your cat.

General Cost to Treat Feline Cystitis

All cats with cystitis require a veterinary clinic visit. When visiting your veterinarian, you are likely to spend $100 or more for a thorough examination, urine testing, and medications. If your cat needs imaging or more advanced tests, this will likely cost $300 or more. 

The cost to treat and manage cystitis in cats is highly variable depending on where you live and how severe your cat’s condition is. If your cat has a severe form of cystitis that requires surgery or emergency care, the price will go up.

How to Prevent Cystitis in Cats

In order to prevent cystitis in cats, pet parents should:

• Feed a high-quality canned food diet (no or minimal dry food)
• Increase environmental enrichment – Provide a variety of interesting things for all of your cat’s senses.
• Promote a healthy weight – Speak with your veterinarian if your cat is overweight.
• Prevent stress during major life changes – This can include veterinary medications to decrease stress during events like airplane flights or moves.
• Treat fighting between cats – Speak with your veterinarian or a behaviorist right away when issues occur.

Related Conditions 

There are several conditions related to cystitis, including:

• FIC
• Bacterial infection (UTI)
• Crystals in the urine (crystalluria)
• Bladder stones (urolithiasis)
• Urethral plugs (debris blocking the ability to urinate)

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If untreated, gingivitis in cats can cause pain and discomfort. By understanding gingivitis, you can work with your veterinarian to keep your cat happy and healthy.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis means inflammation of the gingiva. The gingiva, commonly called the gums, refers to the pink soft tissue that is attached to the teeth in your cat’s mouth. 

Gingivitis typically looks like a thin dark pink to red line along the teeth, depending on how severe it is. Occasionally, if gingivitis is severe, a cat’s gums may bleed, especially after eating or chewing on a toy.

Types of Cat Gingivitis

There are a couple types of gingivitis that cat parents should be aware of. 

Juvenile hyperplastic gingivitis (or juvenile gingivitis) is when the gums are inflamed in very young cats, as young as five months old. 

When adult cats have gingivitis, it can range from mild to severe. In severe cases, there may be periodontal disease occurring in the mouth. Periodontal disease, commonly called dental disease, refers to the structures holding the teeth. With feline dental disease, teeth can be weakened and break.

Gingivitis in cats can also be focal or generalized. Focal gingivitis means that the inflammation is only in one area of the mouth. With generalized gingivitis all the gums are inflamed.

What Causes Gingivitis in Cats?

Gingivitis in cats is commonly caused by bacteria. Bacteria are naturally found in a cat’s mouth, and many of the bacteria are beneficial to your cat’s health. But because cats do not brush and floss their teeth, debris—called calculus or tartar—can build on the teeth. 

It is easier for the bacteria to reach into the space between the teeth and gums, causing an infection and subsequent inflammation.

Gingivitis can indicate serious underlying disease, such as periodontal disease. Since periodontal disease occurs in at least 15 percent of cats, all cats with gingivitis need veterinary evaluation. It is almost impossible to diagnose periodontal disease on visual examination when your cat is awake, so your veterinarian will likely recommend anesthesia and a dental assessment.

All cat breeds are susceptible to gingivitis. It could also be hereditary, meaning some cats are born predisposed to gingivitis.

There is no proof that cats eating dry food versus canned food have a different level of gingivitis or dental disease. Cats with poor nutrition in general may be more likely to have gingivitis.

Juvenile gingivitis does not have an exact known cause. It occurs once the baby teeth have fallen out and adult teeth erupt from the gums. 

Symptoms of Feline Gingivitis

In mild forms of gingivitis, you are unlikely to notice symptoms in your cat. However, if gingivitis is more severe, your cat will experience pain in the mouth as well as other more serious periodontal disease. 

A disease process that may accompany gingivitis is called stomatitis. This is a very painful condition, making it hard for cats to eat and groom their fur.

Symptoms of feline gingivitis may include:

• Halitosis, or bad breath
• Very small amount of blood on food and water bowls, or hard toys
• Decreased appetite, or becoming a picky eater
• Avoiding dry food or hard treats
• Pawing at the mouth especially after eating or chewing
• Chewing primarily on one side of the mouth
• Unkempt fur coat from a lack of grooming 

Diagnosing Gingivitis in Cats

Gingivitis is diagnosed by a veterinary examination. Your veterinarian will determine the severity and location, which will affect how the condition is treated. If your cat has had gingivitis chronically since a young age, it may be diagnosed as juvenile gingivitis.

The challenging part of gingivitis is not the diagnosis, but understanding what is causing it. Your veterinarian may recommend blood testing for other conditions associated with gingivitis. 

A thorough dental examination under anesthesia is the best way to search for the cause of gingivitis. If more serious periodontal disease is involved, it cannot be diagnosed or treated when your cat is awake. 

X-rays and special dental equipment are required to diagnose periodontal disease.

How to Treat Gingivitis in Cats

Gingivitis can be treated. If it is mild, your veterinarian will likely recommend oral hygiene at home. The most popular option includes brushing your cat’s teeth with toothpaste formulated for cats. Ideally, this should be done daily. 

There are also some prescription diets that decrease the amount of tartar on a cat’s teeth, which may prevent the gingivitis from getting worse. Sometimes your veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics to treat any bacterial infections that may be causing the gingivitis.

The best treatment is a thorough dental examination and cat teeth cleaning under anesthesia. During the cleaning, a veterinary technician will remove bacteria and debris found beneath the gums. If any periodontal disease exists, your veterinarian may recommend removal of diseased teeth.

Your veterinarian may prescribe medications that suppress the immune system in more severe cases. This is because, in some cats, the immune system attacks their teeth for an unknown reason. In suppressing the immune system, the medication stops the body from attacking the teeth and causing painful gingivitis in cats. 

Homeopathy for Gingivitis in Cats

There are many holistic remedies for gingivitis that are intended to decrease inflammation in the mouth. However, these remedies will not work without also getting dental cleaning and assessment for periodontal disease. Ideally, seek a holistic veterinarian for treatment.

Examples of homeopathy for gingivitis in cats include:

• Feeding a high-quality diet
• Acupuncture
• Homeopathic veterinary prescribed formulas, which may include probiotics and various compounds (like nitric acid or Belladona)
• Commercially available homeopathic formulas, which may include vitamins, minerals (like zinc), probiotics (like Lactobacillus) and plants (like Echinacea)
• Natural enzymes that alter immune system response (like lactoferrin or coenzyme Q10)
• Chinese herbal therapies (like Yu Nu Jian or Qing Wei San)

Please speak with a veterinarian before giving your cat any supplements or herbal remedies. If given incorrectly these remedies could be harmful for your cat.

Costs to Treat Cat Gingivitis

For mild gingivitis, you may only spend $10-$20 on items needed to brush your cat’s teeth at home. In visiting your veterinarian, depending on the severity of gingivitis, you are likely to spend $100 or more for a thorough examination, blood testing, and medications. 

If your cat needs a dental cleaning and assessment under anesthesia, this requires a special procedure that will likely cost $300 or more. This is highly variable depending on where you live and how severe your cat’s condition is. If your cat has periodontal disease or stomatitis as well as gingivitis, expect the price of treatment to go up.

How to Prevent Gingivitis in Cats

Although some forms of gingivitis are hereditary or associated with other diseases, keeping your cat’s mouth and teeth healthy can help prevent gingivitis. 

In order to prevent gingivitis in cats, follow these tips:

• Feed your cat a high quality diet
• Brush your cat’s teeth as often as possible with toothpaste formulated for cats
• Keep your cats away from other unfamiliar cats who could expose them to viruses
• Visit your veterinarian at least once every year

Related Conditions

There are several viruses associated with gingivitis in cats. These include: 

• Feline leukemia virus (FeLV)
• Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)
• Feline calicivirus 

Knowing whether or not your cat has these viruses requires testing at a veterinary clinic. 

In severe cases, gingivitis may be associated with chronic medical conditions that decrease your cat’s immune system. Specifically, cats with chronic kidney disease often have gingivitis and other periodontal disease. 

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