Posts

10 Facts about Rabbits

/in , , , , /by

rabbit

10 Facts about Rabbits

You can house-train them, do clicker training and much more

  • The oldest rabbit was 18 years old: ‘Flopsy’ was originally a wild rabbit. Under the care of its owner, it turned 18 years and 10 months and entered the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest rabbit.
  • Rabbits can move their ears independently in all directions. The rabbit can perceive 360 degrees of its environment without having to turn its head.
  • Rabbits cannot vomit: The smooth musculature of the oesophagus allows movement only in one direction. Knowing this is very important, because it demonstrates the need for a balanced diet.
  • Rabbits can be house-training: You can do that with a few simple tricks. Since rabbits like to use several corners for their business, their owners should set up several toilets accordingly.
  • Rabbits can jump high: In June 1997, “Mimrelund’s Tösen” from Denmark made a jump of 99.5 cm in height and thus a jump into the Guinness Book of Records.

rabbit

  • Rabbits can die of fear: In the wild, rabbits belong to the loot-animals. That’s where their terrible nature explains it. Loud noises, sudden violent movements can cause extreme fear in the animal and lead to a fatal heart attack.
  • Rabbit teeth grow constantly: These are the incisors and molars, which grow back for life; the incisors grow up to 1.5-1.8 mm per week. The abrasion of the teeth takes place through a sufficient number of grinding movements during the grinding of the food. Suitable feed such as grass and hay guarantee sufficient grinding movements.
  • Rabbits can reproduce between the age of 4-6 months. With bigger breeds, sexually maturity begins only later. Owners who would like to avoid offspring, should therefore let its rabbits be castrated in time.
  • Rabbits are highly social comrades: They clean each other, eat together and like to lie next to each other.

Source: Four Paws

Is Your Cat Slowing Down?

/in , , , , , , , , /by

Cat

Is Your Cat Slowing Down?

At the age of 12, your cat seems to be slowing down a bit, and that could be perfectly normal. After all, a cat of her age—equivalent to the age of 65 or so in a human—has been living a full life and deserves to take it easy on herself. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to have the animal checked out by your veterinarian. It’s quite possible that her diminished activity is a consequence not of her advancing age but of a debilitating pain in one or more of her joints.

Slowed-down, reclusive behavior is an indication of a joint problem in cats of any age, says Christine Bellezza, DVM, a former consultant at the Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine’s Feline Health Center. “Some of the signs are very subtle,” she points out. “An affected cat may seem lethargic and may increasingly seek out comforting places to nap—in a warm corner of your home, for example, or in a spot of sunshine near a window.” The reclusive behavior can also be attributed to a deeply ingrained feline instinct for self-protection. A cat may want to conceal its disability for fear of alerting a potential predator to its vulnerability.

Other indications that a cat is suffering pain in one or more of its joints may not be so subtle. “The cat may have trouble hopping in and out of its litter box,” says Dr. Bellezza, “and it may avoid going up and down stairs.” It is also possible for a cat with a severe joint problem to become constipated because it can’t position itself properly to defecate. Furthermore, due to joint pain, an affected cat may be unable to groom itself thoroughly.

A Common Disorder
The most frequently diagnosed feline joint disorder, according to Dr. Bellezza, is osteoarthritis, otherwise known as degenerative joint disease (DJD). This condition may be caused by an injury to a joint, by gradual wear and tear on a joint that takes place over time, or as the secondary consequence of a disease that compromises the internal structure of a joint.

In all cases, DJD is characterized by the erosion of cartilage, the smooth tissue that protects the ends of bones from rubbing directly against one another within a movable joint. When this protective tissue, for whatever reason, is worn or torn away completely, the bone ends come immediately into contact, and the persistent grinding of bone against bone results in inflammation and pain of varying severity.

All joints in a cat’s body can be affected by DJD, but those that become most visibly apparent to the owner will be the movable joints, most often the shoulders and elbows. But the knees, wrists and hips are also frequently affected. Outward signs of the condition will vary, depending on which joints are most painful, the extent of damage, and the animal’s age.

The earliest visible sign of DJD is likely to be apparent stiffness and a subtle reduction in an affected animal’s activity. Altered gait may eventually occur as the disease progresses or if the joint disorder has resulted from an injury.

Risk Factors
There is no gender predisposition for DJD; male and female cats are equally susceptible to the condition. It is seen more frequently in obese cats than in those of normal weight, since overweight animals constantly exert excessive pressure on their weight-bearing joints. The only notable breed disposition for DJD is in Maine Coons who, due to their naturally stocky bodies, are more susceptible to hip dysplasia than other breeds.

The most prevalent contributing factor for DJD is age. In one study, researchers carefully analyzed X-rays of the spines and limbs of 100 middle-aged or elderly cats (10 years of age or older). The study found that very few of the animals had perfectly normal joints and that most of them had obvious radiographic signs of arthritis. Indeed, the X-rays revealed that 90 percent of cats over the age of 12 showed evidence of DJD. Young cats, however, are by no means invulnerable. The findings of another study suggested that 20 percent of all cats one year of age and older are already arthritic to some extent.

Other Conditions
Although DJD is, by far, the most frequently observed feline joint disorder, a wide variety of other conditions affecting the joints may be responsible for a cat’s sudden or gradually occurring lameness. For example, being hit by an automobile or falling from a significant height can fracture or dislocate one or more bones in an animal’s joints. Most frequently, says Dr. Bellezza, these traumas occur in the front or hind limbs, although such fractures can also occur in a cat’s pelvis or spine.

In some cases, a cat may be born with a so-called developmental defect—a genetically inherited condition—that affects the joints. Among these conditions, the most frequently occurring is hip dysplasia. In a normally formed animal, the top end of the thigh bone fits snugly into the ball-and-socket joint of the hip but is free enough to glide and partially rotate to allow an animal’s movement. In a cat with hip dysplasia, the ball and socket are misaligned and loose, a structural abnormality that causes the bones in the joint to rub painfully against each other.

A host of other problems can compromise the joints in the feline body, such as dietary and hormonal disorders, bone cancer, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and ligament ruptures. Fortunately, these conditions, insofar as they impact the joints, are relatively rare in cats, especially when compared with the frequent occurrence of DJD.

Veterinary diagnosis of a cat that seems to be experiencing a joint problem focuses, therefore, on confirming the presence of DJD and excluding, to the extent possible, the presence of other conditions that might affect the joints. According to Dr. Bellezza, diagnosis will entail a complete medical history and overall physical examination of an afflicted animal, followed by an orthopedic exam and X-rays of the cat’s joints.

A number of surgical procedures, such as bone fusion or joint replacement, may relieve a cat’s problems, but such procedures can also restrict an animal’s activities. So palliative treatment—relying largely on pain medication and attentive home care—is most often recommended. The goal is to relieve the patient’s discomfort and provide him or her with a reasonably good quality of life.

Source: Vet Cornell

Time for a switch? Changing Cat Food: How to Do It Safely

/in , , , , , , /by

Cat

Time for a switch? Changing Cat Food: How to Do It Safely

At some points in your cat’s life, it might make sense to change up the food you give them. Changing cat food as your kitty ages or if they develop a medical issue will help to support their health. But it’s important to know how to safely transition your pet to a new food.

Here are common reasons to consider changing your cat’s meal plan:

Age Transitions

Your cat’s nutritional needs shift as they grow from a cuddly little kitten into a wise senior cat. Choosing the best cat food for their life stage helps ensure they’re getting the nutrients and calories they need. You should be transitioning your kitten to an adult cat food around year one, and your adult cat to a senior or mature adult food around age seven. To find the right food for your cat’s age, look at the labels. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is a great resource for deciphering pet food labels and making the best choice for your cat.

Health Issues

If your cat develops an illness, has surgery or is experiencing stress, it may call for changing cat food. According to Vetinfo, the fat, protein and salt that are added for extra flavor in regular cat foods may not be the healthiest option for a sick cat, so it may make sense to switch them to a therapeutic food. Keep in mind that pregnant or nursing cats also have different nutritional needs.

To make sure your kitty gets the nutrition they need while they’re recovering from a health issue, talk with your veterinarian about creating a meal plan.

Picky Eater

Switching cat food might also be in order if you have a picky eater on your hands. Cats know what they like (no secret there). International Cat Care explains that even the texture of food is important to cats.

If you’ve recently adopted a cat, they may have developed a preference for a certain type of food, such as wet over dry food. If you’re switching cat food to accommodate your discerning kitty, just make sure it provides them the nutrients they need. Your vet, again, is a great resource for information when choosing a new food that will meet your cat’s discerning tastes, while still providing adequate nutrition.

Pet Food Trends

New pet foods and pet food trends are popping up all the time, but it’s a good idea to check with your veterinarian before serving your cat the hottest new food. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the newest cat food trend may not be appropriate for your kitty, especially if it includes food for humans or dogs, or food that’s homemade — all of which could cause nutritional imbalances.

Cat

How to Safely Transition Your Cat to a New Food

When switching your cat’s food, it’s important to slowly ease them onto their new meal plan. If you change their food too quickly, it could worsen existing health problems or cause new ones, such as vomiting or diarrhoea, explains Pet Health Network.

Follow these tips to help your kitty adjust to their new food as smoothly as possible:

  • Start by mixing together their current food and the new food.
  • Gradually decrease the amount of old food you give them over a seven-day period.
  • Observe your cat’s behavior and watch out for negative reactions, such as tummy trouble.

For a more detailed strategy and directions for portion control between the new & old food, see our article about transitioning cat foods.

When to Visit the Vet

It’s important to only change if your cat’s food if there’s a strong reason to do so — typically only if your veterinarian recommends it.

If you notice a change in your kitty’s level of hunger, such as decreased or dramatically increased appetite, the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University recommends that you don’t switch their food or overcompensate with treats. Instead, take your cat to the vet to determine the root of their eating issues.

Cats are hard-wired to prefer certain aromas and textures, so it may take some time to find the right cat food for them. But with some searching and a little patience, you’ll discover the healthiest cat food for your furry friend.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

6 Signs of ageing in cats

/in , , , , , , , , , /by

cats

6 Signs of ageing in cats

Your cat has offered you countless hours of love, laughs and companionship over the years. Now that she’s getting older, it’s time for you to repay all her unconditional love with extra attention and care to guarantee that her senior years are happy ones.

Senior Cat Signs
Some cats begin showing age-related physical signs as early as age seven, while others are still friskier than kittens at ten. A general rule of thumb is that a cat is classified as “senior” if she’s over 11 years of age.

As the parent of an aging cat, you’ll want to watch for changes in behavior that could signify an underlying problem. Here are five common age-related symptoms and conditions you might see in an older kitty:

  1. Sleeping all the time…or not at all: While slowing down as a cat ages is normal, if you notice your cat is sleeping all the time or more deeply than normal it might indicate a more serious health problem. Conversely, cats that are more active at night and not sleeping as much, might be experiencing age-related changes. The Tree House Humane Society in Chicago also notes that an older cat that suddenly seems to have much more energy might be suffering from hyperthyroidism. Talk to your vet if you have any concerns about her overall health.
  2. Confusion: If your cat is getting confused by ordinary tasks or objects she is used to navigating like finding her bed she may be reaching her golden years. This can also be a sign of a larger cognitive issues, so you should consult your vet if you notice this type of behavior.
  3. Having trouble climbing stairs or jumping: Arthritis is common in older cats. While your cat might not limp or show other obvious signs of painful joints, you might notice she has more difficulty than she used to jumping into a litter box, climbing stairs or jumping on furniture.
  4. Unintentional weight loss or weight gain: In an older cat, weight loss can be a sign of any number of problems, from heart and kidney disease to diabetes, notes the University of Illinois School of Veterinary Medicine. Some pets’ food and energy needs can increase as they move from adult to senior cats, and they may lose weight faster than they can eat to catch up. On the opposite side of the spectrum, as cats age, their metabolism slows down so they don’t need as many calories as they used to. If you notice your cat is starting to pack on the pounds, it might be time to transition to a senior cat food  that is better equipped to meet her biological needs.
  5. Behavioral changes: Is your cat having accidents when she never did before? Is she avoiding human interaction? These can be signs of a cat in kidney failure, a cat in pain, or a cat that is mentally confused — health conditions that are more prevalent in senior aged cats. Your veterinarian can help you get to the bottom of your cat’s behavioral changes.
  6. Matted or oily fur: A cat that has stopped self-grooming could be in pain because of arthritis or dental issues.

Older cats should see a vet every six months. But if you notice any change in your cat’s behavior or appearance you should never hesitate to call sooner. A vet, after all, will be familiar with all the signs of aging in cats.

Caring for Your Golden Girl
You can also take some easy steps at home to improve your cat’s quality of life in her senior years:

  • Choose a high-quality food made for senior cats:, Youthful Vitality 7+ Cat Food, for instance, is specially formulated to support brain function, energy and vitality, healthy kidneys and bladder, healthy digestive system and luxiurious fur.
  • Give her a warm place to rest: Especially if she suffers from arthritis, she’ll appreciate you moving her bed from a drafty area.
  • Think easy access: Give her a litter box, water bowl, and food bowl on every floor of your house. If she seems to be having trouble climbing into the litter box, find one with lower sides or even try an old cookie sheet.
  • Help her groom: Many people rarely brush their cats because they are such good self-groomers. But as your cat ages, brushing your cat serves a dual-purpose of acting as a bonding activity and keeping her coat healthy when she can no longer do it alone.
  • Continue to Exercise Her: Here are some easy ways to keep your senior cat moving.

It’s important to remember that aging is not a disease.  Cornell University’s Feline Health Center notes that aging is a natural process, and the body — whether human or feline — goes through many complex physical changes as the years progress. But even though some of your cat’s conditions might not be easily cured, they can likely be controlled. Help your cat enjoy her senior years by making sure she has access to vet care and that she has plenty of love and attention at home.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

My Dog is Acting Lethargic: Causes & How to Help

/in , , , , , /by
dog

pixabay

My Dog is Acting Lethargic: Causes & How to Help

If your dog is slowing down, acting tired, or refusing to play like they used to, chances are they are not simply being lazy. Pets who act lethargic or show signs of exercise intolerance may have a serious underlying condition. In particular, this may be caused by a serious condition like heart disease. If your dog is acting lethargic or is simply less active than usual, it’s important to pay attention to these cues. Keep reading to understand why your dog might be exercise-intolerant and what you should do about it.

Possible Causes of Lethargy

It’s normal for some dogs to slow down a bit after heavy activity. For example, your dog may want to spend a day or two sleeping more than usual following a long day at the dog park or a rigorous hike. However, prolonged tiredness should not be ignored. Exercise intolerance is only one red flag for major issues like heart disease, but it could also signal a host of other problems, ranging from mild issues, such as muscle pain, to serious conditions like congestive heart failure. Vets Now lists several potential reasons why your dog is acting lethargic:

  • Infection or illness, including parvovirus or kennel cough
  • Heart problems
  • Liver problems
  • Diabetes or hypoglycemia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Parasites
  • Side effects of medication
  • Poisoning or trauma

The walking service and dog advice site, Wag!, adds that exercise intolerance in combination with other symptoms—such as a lack of appetite, coughing, or fainting—could also be a sign of pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs) or other cardiovascular disease.

Signs of Exercise Intolerance and Lethargy in Dogs

It’s usually fairly easy to tell if your dog is acting sluggish. Excessive sleep, low energy, lack of excitement, and delayed responses are all overt signs of a lethargic dog, says Vetinfo. Exercise intolerance can be harder to spot, especially if you don’t walk or play with your dog regularly. In milder cases, says Wag!, your pooch may simply not want to walk as far or play as much as normal. Coughing, heavy panting, or laboured breathing following physical activity might also signal exercise intolerance. Extreme cases might involve confusion, disorientation, a lapse in toilet training, a rise in body temperature, wobbliness, and even collapse.

What You Should Do to Help

If you notice that your dog is acting lethargic or isn’t tolerating their usual levels of exercise, it’s important not to force them to run. Follow their cues, and allow them to stop playing or cut their walk short if necessary. Keep a close eye on them, watching for other serious symptoms. If you notice any other worrisome behaviours, you should contact your veterinarian right away. If your dog doesn’t show any other symptoms, wait a day or two. If your pup’s energy doesn’t improve or their condition worsens, contact your vet. That being said, if they show extreme symptoms, such as fainting or collapse, get them to an emergency clinic immediately.

Diagnosing Your Dog

dog

pixabay

Once at the vet, your dog will be thoroughly examined. The vet will likely look for any signs of lameness, injury, or pain, as well as any possible tumours. He or she will also perform blood and urine tests to check for underlying health conditions. It’s likely that your pup will also be hooked up to an electrocardiograph machine to check the electrical activity of their heart, and will be given chest x-rays to examine their heart and lungs. Your vet might also recommend an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to help diagnose your pup’s condition. You can help achieve a proper diagnosis by providing your vet with a list of any medications your dog takes, talking over the details about their diet and lifestyle, and mentioning any other symptoms or changes you’ve noticed in your pup.

What to Do After Diagnosis

Lethargy and exercise intolerance are symptoms of a problem, not a condition by themselves. The type of care your dog needs will depend on the condition with which they are diagnosed. Depending on the vet’s assessment, your pooch might recover and return to their former levels of activity. However, heart disease in dogs, as well as other progressive illnesses, may require changes in exercise and activity for the rest of their life. Talk to your vet about your pup’s condition and how much physical activity they can safely handle.

Alternatives to Exercise

If your dog is restricted from vigorous activity and exercise, it can be a challenge to control their weight. Because excess weight can exacerbate some ailments, this is a challenge that must be addressed. Depending on your pup’s diagnosis and treatment plan, your vet might place them on a special therapeutic meal plan that’s appropriate to their condition. Otherwise, talk to your vet about placing them on weight control dog food that can help them keep off the “puppy fat” in the absence of exercise. Making sure your dog is eating an age-appropriate dog food can also help manage their weight. Proper nutrition is also vital. If your dog is not receiving the right nutrients they need to keep their energy levels up, this could be a contributing factor to their lethargy. Be sure to talk to your vet about overall food recommendations even if they do not need a specific condition-based dog food.

dog

pixabay

Age Considerations

Of course, it’s normal for dogs to slow down a bit as they get older. Joint problems, weight gain, and simply growing more tired with age are all factors that could cause an older dog to be less active. But older dogs are also more susceptible to the types of illnesses that cause lethargy and exercise intolerance; regardless of your dog’s age, if they are noticeably more tired than usual, it’s important not to chalk it up to just being a senior. These are potential red flags that should never be ignored.

A dog’s activity level can be a strong indicator of their health. That’s why as a pet parent, it’s important to pay close attention to what’s normal for your pooch so that you’ll be able to recognise when they are not acting quite like themselves. If you’re not in the habit of routinely playing with or walking your dog, start now so that you’ll be familiar with their normal level of activity. By acting quickly when your dog is acting lethargic, you could help catch a serious illness in its early stages and improve your pet’s chances of continuing to live a healthy, happy life.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Responsible pet parents spay and neuter their pets.

/in , , , , , , , , /by

RESPONSIBLE PET PARENTS SPAY AND NEUTER THEIR PETS

Spaying and neutering have many benefits, including health, behaviour & community benefits.

There are two big reasons why you should spay and neuter your pets.  We have a massive pet overpopulation crisis worldwide, with not nearly enough homes, never mind good homes.  This means that millions of healthy animals are being euthanized (killed humanely) annually. Another reason is it is good for their health!

THE PET OVERPOPULATION CRISIS

You need to understand the magnitude of this overpopulation crisis and then, hopefully, you will understand why many of us advocate so hard for it.

  • One female cat and her offspring can exponentially produce 370 000 cats in just seven years.
  • One female dog and her offspring can exponentially produce 67 000 dogs in six years.
  • Only 1 out of every 10 dogs born, find a home.
  • According to Rescue Rehab SA, approximately 1 million dogs and cats are euthanized in South Africa every year, that is 2740 a day!
  • According to the Humane Society of the USA, a cat or dog is euthanized at shelters every 10s.
  • A report by Mars Petcare showed 224 million animals are homeless in the USA, UK, SA, Mexico, Greece, Russia, China, India & Germany and about 30% of animals in SA are homeless.
  • At least one in four pets brought to shelters are purebred and this number is climbing.

Although we promote adoption, we can’t adopt our way out of this problem, so we need to fix (pardon the pun) it. We have heard all the bad excuses, debunked the myths and I educate about it daily on the SPAY & NEUTER SA page.

One of the worst excuses I have heard is that preventing pets from having litters is unnatural and that if God thought it was a problem he would make them sterile.  The fact is that we have already interfered with nature by domesticating dogs, cats and other animals. We domesticated the dog 15 000 years ago and the cat 8 000 years ago. In doing so, we helped create this problem. Now it’s our responsibility to solve it. It’s also unnatural to be killing so many of them in our pounds and shelters each year. You can’t blame the shelters, but you should blame breeders and dealers of any kind.

 

IT IS GOOD FOR THEIR HEALTH

When you spay and neuter your pets it can lead to longer and happier lives.  There are many benefits of spay and neuter for their health which include a lower risk for certain diseases like cancers and pyometra. It certainly eliminates the stress associated with pregnancy.  It improves behaviour, especially when dealing with females in heat and males marking or spraying and wandering out of the yard in search of these females which they can smell from far away. 

RESPONSIBLE PET PARENTS SPAY AND NEUTER THEIR PETS.3

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SPAYING & NEUTERING
WHAT DOES SPAY & NEUTER MEAN?

It’s important to recognize the difference between sterilization and desexing (traditional spay and neuter). Whereas the former procedure eliminates a dog’s ability to procreate, desexing sterilizes but also eliminates the dog’s ability to produce sex hormones for the remainder of their life.

Vetcare.com defines it as follows:

The word “spay” refers to the sterilization of female pets. During the ovariohysterectomy, or the typical “spay”, the ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus are removed from a female dog or cat.

The term “neuter” refers to the castration of male pets.  During orchiectomy, or the typical “neuter”, the testes are removed from a male dog or cat.

Both the spay and neuter procedure makes them unable to reproduce and reduces or eliminates breeding-related behaviours. In females it eliminates her heat cycle.

WHAT AGE SHOULD I SPAY/NEUTER MY PET?

An experienced vet can spay and neuter at an age as young as 6-8 weeks old, however, the risks involved with anesthesia may be slightly greater at this age.  Older females that are not spayed are at risk too. There is generally no other age limit for the procedure as long as your pet is healthy.

We support spay and neuter at around 6 months of age. We have done so with our pets who all reach ripe old ages and are rarely sick.

SHOULD I LET MY PET HAVE BABIES BEFORE I SPAY THEM?

Most veterinarians and the most recent research recommends that animals are spayed before their first heat cycle (before the age of 7 months or so). This drastically reduces the risk of mammary tumors later in life, prevents uterine infections and unwanted pregnancy. Pregnancy can put unnecessary stress on your pet’s body.

MY PET JUST GAVE BIRTH, HOW LONG SHOULD I WAIT TO SPAY?

Please prevent this, but if it did happen, the suggested time for animals that have recently given birth is about 2 weeks after the young have been weaned and the mother’s milk has dried up.

WHAT ARE SIGNS THAT MY CAT/DOG IS IN HEAT? (Vetcare.com)

Dogs have outward signs of being in heat. The vulva swells, and there is bleeding present for 1-1 ½ weeks. Just after the bleeding stops, most dogs will be receptive to mating for 1-2 weeks. Most dogs will go into heat twice a year, in the spring and fall.  Some dogs may skip the fall cycle.

Cats go into heat for the first time typically when they are 5-7 months old. A cat will be in heat (receptive to mating and able to become pregnant) for up to two weeks and then go out of heat. If she has not been mated, two weeks later, she will go back into heat again. This cycling in and out of heat will continue for several months.

Cats can have their first heat cylce at around 4 months of age.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS?

Even though spay and neuter are major surgical procedures, they are some of the most common procedures done by vets.  As with any surgery, there are risks associated with anesthesia and potential surgical complications. The overall occurrence of these risks is very rare.

WILL MY PET GAIN WEIGHT?

Probably not. Just like people, pets become overweight when they eat too much or exercise too little. Choosing a diet that is species-appropriate and suited to the health and lifestyle of your pet is important to prevent weight gain.

WILL THEIR BEHAVIOUR CHANGE AFTER THE SURGERY?

The spay and neuter will most likely not alter your pet’s basic personality which is mainly determined by the breed and a few other factors. It can result in some behavioural changes, but usually for the better! 

WILL MY MALE CAT STOP SPRAYING IF I GET HIM NEUTERED?

Spraying is common in unneutered male cats. They want to mark their territory and it would be best to neuter your cat before they develop this behaviour. Males may still engage in full-testosterone male behaviors while their male sex hormone levels diminish after surgery. This can take 6-8 weeks. Remember that male rabbits can still be fertile for a few weeks after neutering, as there may be sperm left in the reproductive tract!

DOES SPAYING & NEUTERING HURT?

During a spay or neuter surgery, the animal is fully anesthetized, so they feel no pain. Afterward, some animals seem to experience some discomfort temporarily, but with pain medication, discomfort may not be experienced at all.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO HEAL?

According to vetcare.com, most spay and neuter skin incisions are fully healed within about 10–14 days, which coincides with the time that stitches or staples, if any, will need to be removed.

WHICH VET TO CHOOSE?

Even though this procedure is a common procedure for vets, not all vets are good at it, so do your homework on the vet! Cats & dogs are common patients, but please use an exotic qualified vet for other animals!

SHOULD ALL ANIMALS BE SPAYED & NEUTERED?

The massive overpopulation crisis includes more than just cats and dogs, so the answer is mostly yes.  There might be exceptions due to safety or medical reasons and those animals need highly responsible owners to prevent litters. Spaying or neutering a bird is not a routine surgery like it is with many mammals and can be riskier. There are many other ways to prevent your birds from reproducing offspring. Removing eggs of egg-laying animals (the right way) is another method.

CAN YOU SPAY A FEMALE IN HEAT?

Although possible, most vets will probably advise against it due to more swelling and a higher risk of bleeding. This surgery may take longer and be more expensive.

CAN’T WE JUST SPAY THE FEMALES AS THEY HAVE THE LITTERS?

No darling, it takes two to tango if you missed biology class.  The female can only have so many puppies/kittens at once, but the male can impregnate many females around the same time.

IF I KEEP THEM SAFE IN MY YARD, DO I STILL NEED TO SPAY & NEUTER THEM?

Yes, for sure!  Do you know that guy called Murphy?  Animals get in and out of yards and saying it was an unexpected litter doesn’t fly.  If your pet is not spayed or neutered, you can totally expect it.

ARE THERE SPECIFIC PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE AFTER THE PROCEDURE?

Apart from the usual veterinary advice like keeping your pet still and keeping the wound clean, you also need to phone your vet the moment you think something is not right and keep the freshly-neutered males away from non-spayed females for some time.

When it comes to male neuters for various species, after the testicles are removed, it takes time for all of the residual sperm to clear out of the pipes. Ask your vet how long, but some sources suggest days to weeks. During this time, a freshly-neutered male can still impregnate females.

IS THE PROCEDURE EXPENSIVE?

It probably depends on what you spend money on and whether your pet’s health is a priority to you. The cost of spaying or neutering depends on the sex, size, and age of the pet, your veterinarian’s fees, and a few other factors. Remember that spay or neuter surgery is a one-time cost and the cost far outweighs the cost of health-related issues due to not sterilizing or even for raising litters. There are many opportunities to do this at more affordable rates and adoption fees include it!

n general, spaying tends to be more expensive than neutering. Spaying involves opening your dog or cat’s stomach to access the animal’s reproductive organs where neutering is less complex.

The cost may vary from town to town, but according to Pawpawpets.com, the average cost of a spay in South Africa is around R1350 for a female cat and around R1800 to a crazy R4000 for a female dog. Neuters can cost around R750-R1000 for a male cat and around R1200 – R2500 for a male dog.

THE BIGGEST CRITICISM OF EARLY SPAY & NEUTER
There are always two sides to a coin and it is important to look at both.

Some research shows that in desexing spays and neuters – surgical procedures that remove the gonads and associated sex hormones – can have a long-term negative impact on their health.

The research mostly suggest this more in large dog breeds. The advice then is to have them spayed or neutered after they turned one year old, but again then they need a highly responsible owner. You must also remember that the relationship between sex hormones, health and wellness is more complex and can be influenced by many aspects like sex, breed, age, environment and more.

I have not yet seen these negative effects and I think there is more research needed on this as single case studies are not enough. With this massive overpopulation crisis worldwide, the benefits far outweigh the risk for me.

If this does occur, it seems that hormone restoration therapy may be beneficial to symptomatic spayed and neutered dogs.

What are alternatives then? 

When a pet is left intact, it requires a highly responsible pet guardian who is fully committed to and capable of preventing mating and litters.

Another option is sterilizing so the testes or ovaries can continue to produce hormones. This can be accomplished through vasectomy and hysterectomy. According to Dr. Karen Becker, traditional spaying and neutering are basically the only techniques vets are currently taught and we need to change that.

Changing the fate of animals and the massive overpopulation crisis resolves around three principles namely sterilization, education, stricter and enforced laws for those who don’t respond to being asked nicely.  No breeding can be “responsible” when we have a massive overpopulation crisis and when you support breeders, you are part of the problem.

BE PART OF THE SOLUTION AND JOIN THE SPAY & NEUTER REVOLUTION

  • Spay & neuter your pets.
  • Share, educate & advocate for it.
  • Donate to spay & neuter campaigns.
  • Support petitions on the topic.
  • Don’t support animal dealers, breeders, or pet shops that fuel the overpopulation crisis.
  • Adopt from reputable organizations.

Can you see now why reputable animal welfare organizations are all up-in-your-business about spay and neuter?

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Source: The Bulletin
Website: www.thebulletin.co.za

Need a Vet?
Search our Vet Directory!

Your 1-year-old dog isn’t 7 human years old, contrary to the traditional math.

/in , /by

Dogs live an average of 12 years. Life expectancy in humans, by contrast, is at least five times that.

That discrepancy is in part the basis for the common rule of thumb that one “dog year” is the equivalent of seven “human years.”

But according to a new study published in the journal Cell, that one-to-seven ratio is wrong. That’s because new genetic evidence shows puppies and younger dogs age faster than their older counterparts do.

That means you’ve probably been estimating your dog’s human age equivalent incorrectly.

A 6-year-old dog would be the human equivalent of about 60 years old, the researchers found.

“I like to take my dogs on runs, and so I’m a little bit more sympathetic to the 6-year-old now,” Trey Ideker, a co-author of the new study, said in a press release. “What’s surprising is exactly how old that 1-year-old dog is – it’s like a 30-year-old human.”

An 8-week-old puppy is the equivalent of a 9-month-old baby.

To come up with a better formula for comparing human and dog ages, Ideker’s team looked at chemical markers in the DNA of 104 labradors ranging from just weeks old to 16 years old.

Although an animal’s DNA does not change during its lifetime, these chemical markers – called methyl groups – do. As years pass, methyl groups accumulate in the DNA, causing certain genes to turn on and off. After tracking how these groups accumulate in different parts of labrador genomes over time, the researchers compared that accumulation rate to the same methyl group changes in humans.

Ideker’s team found that in dogs’ first year of life, the animals accumulate more methyl groups than humans do. So an 8-week-old puppy is equivalent to a 9-month-old baby.

Then as years pass, that accumulation rate slows down in dogs to better match humans’ accumulation rates – suggesting older dogs age more slowly once they get older.

Ultimately, one dog year isn’t equal to seven human years. In fact, in order to calculate your dog’s human age equivalent, you’ll need a calculator.

The researchers formula is: A dog’s human age = 16 ln * your dog’s age + 31. (The ln in this formula refers to the natural log of a number.)

Essentially, for each year older a dog gets, the corresponding increase in “human years” gets smaller and smaller.

So based on that formula, a 6-year-old lab is 60 human years old. But a 12-year-old lab is 70 human years old.

“If we think about aging in terms of how old our cells are, this new paper is really useful in matching up human and dog years,” Lucy Asher, an animal behaviour expert who was not affiliated with the study, told The Guardian.

Going forward, Ideker wants to replicate the study in other dog breeds that have different average lifespans.

It’s challenging to equate human and dog aging

The new research found that methyl groups accumulated on some of the same genes in dogs and people as the two species aged. This makes sense, according to the study authors, given that dogs share the same living environment as their owners and receive almost the same standard of healthcare.

But even so, age matching doesn’t apply to the two species’ hormones and behaviours.

“Whilst a 30-year-old human might have cells of an analogous ‘age’ to a 1-year-old dog, many dogs won’t be fully grown at this time and they will still have unsettled hormones and behaviour associated with puberty,” Asher told The Guardian.

So there’s a reason your 1-year-old canine won’t act his human age, and instead prefers to chase sticks and squirrels with child-like abandon.

“The development of dogs is not just a shortened version of the human development, which is why it’s difficult to find a clear match-up between a dog’s age and a human’s age,” Asher added

By: Aylin Woodward
Source: Business Insider US

 

Reasons to know an animal’s age are plentiful

/in , /by

Image: Pixababy

One of the first questions many people ask when looking to adopt a shelter dog is what age the animal is. Unless it’s a puppy whose adult teeth haven’t come in yet, shelter staff can only do an educated guess.

There are so many factors that come into play and since most of the dogs are strays with unknown histories, we just do the best we can.  Genetics and poor nutrition can wreak havoc on an animal’s teeth and with the factors that are looked at upon making an age call.

The reasons to know an animal’s age are plentiful. Knowing what type of diet to feed or what type of behavior to expect are just a couple. Of course, knowing if a pet is older also helps to gauge whether or not they are just slowing down or might be suffering from a health issue that needs veterinary attention.

After a puppy loses those sharp needle teeth and get their big dog teeth in, most of their teeth will look alike whether they’re 3 or 10 years old.

However, there are a few ways to examine the teeth and make an educated guess. First of all, dogs will typically have all their permanent teeth by the age of about seven months old. A lot of the toy breeds will retain puppy teeth along with their adult teeth and this is something you definitely will need to speak to your veterinarian about.

If Fido’s teeth are all clean and white with the faintest touch of tartar, he may be about a year old. As they age, the teeth will have a yellowish discoloration, usually at the back of their teeth along with tartar build up.

With a minimal amount of yellowing and tartar, your pet may fall between three to five years of age. With dogs usually over the age of five, there’s a lot more wear and tear, discoloration and tartar buildup. 

If there are missing teeth, severe wear and tear and a lot of tartar buildup, your pet may be at least ten years or older.

Of course, diet and genetics play a big role in the teeth. Just like humans who are at a disadvantage of having bad teeth, there are those pooches who also are unlucky enough to have bad teeth as well. At your yearly veterinary checkups, your veterinarian should be checking your pet’s teeth and recommending any type of dental care. Brushing with a pet specific toothpaste or even regular dental cleanings are usually recommended. Some pets have the unfortunate luck of having to have a dental cleaning yearly while others may not need one ever. It’s all up to the genetic lottery.

Other indicators may also help you judge how old your pet is. There are both behavioral traits and physical characteristics that may point to your pet being young or old.

Graying around the muzzle or eyes is one sign. Though again, some dogs may gray prematurely. I know of dogs who have started getting those white hairs at two or three years of age.

Just like us humans who may get gray hairs sooner than we like, our pets can too.   Our  pets don’t have the luxury of having skilled cosmetologists who can cover their gray like we do.

A dog’s eyes are also a window to telling how old they may be. As they age, their eyes may become cloudy. This is usually a sign of age in a dog. However, they could also have eye issues if this appears quickly. It usually happens overtime and we hardly notice.

Sometimes older pets are also more laid back. They don’t have the endless energy nor willingness to keep up with us step for step. They may have joint issues and avoid jumping off of things or climbing steps.

The best way to age your pet is look at the overall condition and behavior of your pet. Unless we know an exact birth date, all we can do is guess. Does age really matter anyway? They’re never with us long enough and every moment should be treasured and the best care given for our best four-legged friends.

Source: Times Record News

Advice for Adding a Second Dog to Your Family

/in /by

Image: Pixabay

Adding a second canine to your single-dog home is not a decision to be made on the fly — there’s more to it than just buying another leash and doubling up on the dog food order. Aside from the resources required (both in terms of time and money), a second dog has the potential to create some disruption within your home. But is it worth it? We suspect most two-dog owners would say, “Absolutely!”

Of course, if you already have a pup, you know that those disruptions can be a small price to pay for all the love you get in return. And even though bringing a second dog into your home may add a bit more stress, it can also raise the level of happiness you experience — exponentially.

If you’re considering adding a second dog to your household, we’ve got expert tips for navigating this change.

Prepare your pup.

First of all, consider how your current dog is likely to feel about a new canine sibling. Does the dog you already own play and snuggle with every dog she meets? That’s a great sign! Does she growl or lunge whenever she sees another pup? That could be problematic. Not sure how she feels about her fellow canines? Consider asking dog-owning pals to come by (or meet you somewhere neutral) so you can gauge your dog’s reaction in a safe way. While many dogs love playing with other canines, some are better in single-dog homes, so if your dog doesn’t seem to do well with others, you might need to reconsider your decision to expand your pack.

Choose the right addition.

Keep in mind that even if your pooch is a total darling around other pups in general, that’s not a guarantee that she’ll immediately welcome a new addition to her home. Even with two sweet-natured dogs, it may take some work on your end to create a peacable kingdom. And while there’s never a guarantee that any two dogs will get along, there are a few things you can look for in your second dog that could make it a bit more likely. Considerations include temperament, size, sex, age, whether the dog has been spayed or neutered and possibly the new dog’s breed, as some breeds are generally considered to be more dog-friendly than others. If your current dog is, say, a geriatric Chihuahua, bringing home a boisterous Great Dane puppy is probably too big a difference in size and energy levels. Dogs with a slight difference in height and weight, an age difference of a couple of years and similar energy and activity levels tend to be more likely to pair well. Finally, trainer Mikkel Becker notes that the likelihood of intense fighting is higher between two female dogs than it is with either two males or a male and female dog (although, remember, that’s no guarantee, especially among breeds that aren’t known for playing well with others).

Introduce the dogs properly.

Once you’re sure your new dog will be a good fit for your fur family, it’s time to schedule a visit with the vet. Before introducing any new animal to the pets you already have, all animals involved should be thoroughly examined by your veterinarian and be up-to-date on vaccinations. Your vet might recommend a quarantine period, too, so be sure to follow his or her advice. Once you get the all-clear, schedule a play date — but keep it low key. “Be sure they meet at a neutral place, and not at home. Maybe a park,” suggests Facebook fan Cindy Lynn Ostergard. Once they’ve met and seem to be on good terms, you can try walking them side by side (offering treats as rewards for good behavior) to give them an additional opportunity to get to know each other before you all head home. And speaking of going home, if you’re feeling unsure about how your dogs will react to one another in the home environment, it might be helpful to keep them both on a short leash or to put the new dog in an exercise pen or crate to begin with. And be sure to keep the rewards for good behavior coming — for both dogs. You want the new dog to feel welcome and your first dog to feel like this new addition means good things for her.

Don’t forget who came first.

It can be easy to get swept up in the excitement of a new dog — that’s totally natural and completely understandable. But it’s important that you continue to make time for your original dog, too. Remember, she didn’t ask for this addition, and all the changes to her home and routine might be a bit disconcerting. “Make sure the first gets just as much attention or a bit more than new addition,” Facebook fan Barbara Ochs says. Setting aside time to spend with each dog individually is a good idea, not only while the new dog is settling in, but throughout the years.

Remain patient and keep up the good work.

Now that everybody’s home and happy (and maybe taking up all the space in your bed), you might think that there’s nothing more to be done. However, to help ensure that you continue to have a happy multi-dog household, you might find that turning to a professional trainer is a smart move, either by attending classes or enlisting a trainer to come to your home to address specific concerns. And always keep in mind that it can take time for the dogs to fully adjust. While they are getting used to each other and to their new routines, there might be bumps in the road — possibly some frustrating ones. But be patient and keep using positive reinforcement as you train them. Owning two dogs might take a little more work than just having one, but we suspect you’ll get far more than double the joy out of it.

Source: Vet Street