Posts

Putting a Halt on Feline Halitosis

/in , , /by

Having your beloved cat go under the extreme lengths of anaesthesia for a mere teeth cleaning procedure is a stressful ordeal for you both. Then after all the trauma and perhaps a few tooth extractions along the way, your cat often still suffers from the foul-smelling breath they started with.

Read on as there is far more than meets the eye when it comes to feline halitosis…

What causes feline halitosis?

One of the main causes of feline halitosis is the accumulation of bacteria on teeth that emits an unpleasant odour. Plaque is produced when this bacteria bonds with the teeth and, if not removed in time, it will develop into tartar. Tartar is far more challenging to eradicate from the teeth than plaque. This conglomeration of plaque and tartar can quickly progress to halitosis if overlooked.

Your cat’s diet could also be a contributing factor to the unwanted onset of halitosis and it could be as simple as an allergy to the ingredients in what they’re consuming. Halitosis could also merely be caused by a piece of food stuck in the teeth. Baby teeth could also be lurking in your adult cat’s mouth, harbouring unwanted plaque and bacteria.

Some cats are predisposed to inflammation and infection of the gums. Bacteria plagues the gums as well as the supporting tissues of the teeth, resulting in gingivitis or periodontal disease which also contributes to halitosis.

Whilst halitosis is usually quite manageable, it also could be a warning that something more sinister is disrupting your cat’s health and may become a critical medical problem if not treated. Conditions such as cancer, metabolic disorders (sugar diabetes), respiratory, gastrointestinal, liver and kidney problems may manifest as halitosis and these conditions should be investigated.

What symptoms should I be cautious of?

  • Unusual smelling breath:
    • Abnormal sweet or fruity breath could indicate diabetes, especially if your cat has unusually increased their fluid consumption or urination frequency.
    • Urine-smelling breath can be a sign of kidney disease.
    • A peculiar foul odour associated with yellowing of the corneas and/or gums, vomiting or loss of appetite could indicate a possible liver problem.
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Swollen abdomen
  • Drooling
  • Pawing at the mouth
  • Loss of mouth control, difficulty opening or closing
  • Lethargy
  • Diarrhoea
  • Excessive brownish tartar on your cat’s teeth

If your cat is displaying any of these signs, consult your veterinarian straight away.

Treating feline halitosis:

Treatment of halitosis is determined by the root cause/s thereof. If halitosis is triggered by periodontal disease, the vet will probably schedule your cat in for a dental cleaning procedure because tooth loss may result if left unattended. In some cases, tooth extractions may have to be performed if the supporting bone and tissue have lost significant volume. The vet may also prescribe odour reducing medication that controls the bacteria production in the mouth. 

If periodontal disease is not a contributing factor to your cat’s halitosis, the vet will then need to run tests to discount any other possible triggers. The appropriate treatment plan will depend on the underlying cause/s identified. 

Preventing feline halitosis:

It’s essential to be proactive rather than reactive regarding your cat’s health and wellbeing by adhering to the following preventative tips:

  • Frequently monitor your cat’s breath and the associated symptoms of halitosis
  • Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian so they can observe and track your cat’s dental condition.
  • Brush your cat’s teeth daily to prevent plaque build-up (tips on Brushing Your Feline Friend’s Teeth)
  • Ask your vet about supplementary oral health products that you can use at home.
  • Discuss with your vet a diet that will assist in keeping halitosis at bay.

You know your cat best, so any changes in odours or behaviour should immediately be reported to your vet so that you allow your cat a healthy, prosperous life. Don’t underestimate the significance of your feline friend’s “bad breath”, it could be far more ominous than you realise.

For Your Infurmaton:

Small cat breeds and brachycephalic breeds, for instance Persians and Himalayans, have closely set teeth and are consequently most predisposed to periodontal disease.

 

Written for inFURmation
by Taliah Williamson

Are Dogs Smarter Than Cats? Scientists Weigh In

/in /by

The battle between dog and cat owners just got kicked up a notch, with new research that suggests canines might be smarter than felines.

A study in the journal Frontiers in Neuroanatomy says dogs have more neurons in the part of their brain that is a cognitive powerhouse.

The researchers were comparing the brain sizes of different carnivores, including lions, brown bears, raccoons, hyenas, mongooses and ferrets, and measuring the number of neurons in each of their brains. Dogs and cats were among the animals studied and the humans found that dogs have much more of these brain cells in their cerebral cortex than cats.

That large brain region, which is made up of gray matter and has many different parts, is connected to a lot of cognitive function, from memory and language to consciousness and other types of thought.

According to Vanderbilt University, dogs have 530 million neurons in the cerebral cortex — more than double the number cats have.

Humans have in the neighborhood of 16 billion.

Neurons, as pieces of the nervous system, are involved in sending signals and information throughout the body.

“I believe the absolute number of neurons an animal has, especially in the cerebral cortex, determines the richness of their internal mental state and their ability to predict what is about to happen in their environment based on past experience,” researcher Suzana Herculano-Houzel said in the university statement. “Our findings mean to me that dogs have the biological capability of doing much more complex and flexible things with their lives than cats can.”

According to the study, a golden retriever had more cortical neurons than larger animals as well, despite having an overall smaller brain: striped hyenas, African lions and brown bears.

It was not the only example of brain size being unrelated to the number of neurons. The researchers said that brown bears had the largest cerebral cortex of the animals studied but only had as many neurons as cats; and raccoon brains are about the size of cats’ but have roughly the same number of neurons as dogs, “which makes them comparable to primates in neuronal density.”

Scientists compared brain sizes and the number of neurons in different carnivores
and found that dogs have more of these brain cells than cats, among other revelations. 
Photo: Suzana Herculano-Houzel/Vanderbilt

Written by: Source: www.ibtimes.com

Brain Tumours in Dogs

/in , , , , , /by

Image: Pixabay

The brain of both humans and animals is a complicated and delicate organ. Unfortunately, our understanding of the intricacies of this structure is still relatively limited and when the brain is plagued by cancer, this ignorance becomes even more exasperating because the root cause of and definitive cure for brain cancer and tumours remain uncertain.

What are Brain Tumours?
A tumour is as an uncharacteristic growth of cells that can be categorised as either primary or secondary. A primary tumour is one which originates within the brain itself, while in the case of a secondary tumour, the cancer is spread to the brain from another part of the body in a process otherwise known as metastasis.

Causes of Brain Tumours
Research into the causes of this condition has yielded inconclusive results however; some studies have shown that various breeds are prone to developing tumours in different biological origins. Meningiomas are brain tumours originating from membranes covering the brain. These tumors are more likely to be found in dolichocephalic breeds of dogs, which have long, slender heads and snouts, such as Collies.  Contrarily, gliomas, which are tumours that develop in the interstitial tissue of the central nervous system, are more frequently identified in brachycephalic breeds of dogs, which have short-noses and flat-faces such as Boston Terriers, Pit Bull Terriers and Boxers. While it is possible for a canine to be diagnosed with a tumour at any age, a greater incidence has been observed in dogs over 5 years old.

Various genetic, chemical, immune system, dietary and environmental influences are considered to play a part in the cause thereof, but again, the results are uncertain.

Symptoms
The primary symptom of brain tumours in dogs is the onset of seizures. Other clinical signs may also begin to emerge either gradually or rapidly depending on the location, type, aggressiveness and size of the tumour. These symptoms include:

  • unsteady gait or ‘drunken’ walking
  • issues with vision and/or blindness
  • weakness and lethargy
  • uncharacteristic behaviour such as aggression
  • difficulty in breathing or dyspnea
  • open mouth breathing or panting
  • hypersensitivity to the neck area
  • loss of appetite or anorexia
  • nose bleeds
  • lack of coordination in movement
  • inappropriate urination
  • head rotation and circling
  • sneezing

Diagnosis
A veterinarian would most likely initiate the diagnostic procedure by conducting a physical examination of the dog, which could be followed by complete blood work, X-rays and a MRI and CT scan to examine the extent to which the disease has spread within the body.

Treatment
If the severity of symptoms is extensive, a vet may opt for emergency treatment first. There are three major treatment options available currently which include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Each of these options will be utilised depending upon individual cases to either remove the tumour or reduce its size as well as manage associated secondary effects such as fluid accumulation on the brain.

It’s best to include a reputable veterinary oncologist and neurologist as part of your pets consultations to best weigh up your treatment options. Some pet parents may devastatingly reserve euthanasia as a last resort to ease and alleviate the suffering of their fur child if the cancer is too advanced. A vet may also design a medical management plan to address seizures and prescribe steroids to reduce swelling of the brain.

Management
Remember, that your pup needs you now, more than ever and you need to vigilant in managing this condition. Frequent communication and physical examinations with your veterinarian, oncologist or neurologist as well as additional CT and MRI scans, are essential for pooches with brain tumours. It’s vital to consistently observe your pup for any associated or escalating problems such as an increase in the occurrence of seizures experienced.

Written for inFURmation
by Taliah Williamson

 

Disclaimer: The information produced by Infurmation is provided for general and educational purposes only and does not constitute any legal, medical or other professional advice on any subject matter. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always seek the advice of your vet or other qualified health care provider prior to starting any new diet or treatment and with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you suspect that your pet has a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.

 

 

Dogs and Cancer: Get the Facts

/in , /by

Image: Pixabay

Because mixed-breed dogs come from a much larger gene pool, they would be less likely to get genetic-based cancers. But that doesn’t do anything for spontaneous cancers or environmentally caused cancers.

Q: What can I do to help prevent my dog from getting cancer?

A: The biggest thing is spaying your dog. If you spay a dog before its first heat you’ll reduce the chance of mammary cancer eight-fold, just because of the hormonal influence.

Good oral care can help decrease oral cancers. And if you’re buying a purebred dog, check its line to see if there’s a specific kind of cancer in that breed’s line.

But overall, prevention is difficult because we don’t know the causes of most cancers. I think, rather than trying to prevent cancer, identifying it early and treating it quickly is the better strategy.

Q: If my dog has cancer, does that mean he’s going to die?

A: Absolutely not. Probably the majority of the cancers we see can be dealt with surgically. A lot of the breast cancers, a lot of the mast cell tumors, a lot of skin tumors, soft tissue sarcomas, many of those tumors can be removed surgically and are cured. Even in situations where they have advanced to a lymph node, there are options that can prolong your dog’s life and even cure him.

Q: What kinds of treatments are available for dogs with cancer?

A: We have pretty much all the options that are available to people. There’s surgery, obviously. Radiation therapy is available in about 40 facilities around the country. Chemotherapy has become commonplace. Now some places are even doing research and clinical treatment of patients with immunotherapy tumor vaccines, where we’re using the immune system to stimulate the destruction of the cancer.

Q: The FDA approved the first drug for treating canine cancer in dogs in June 2009. What other advancements will we be seeing in the treatment of canine cancers?

A: There have been several things, like the tumor vaccine I just mentioned. There is a new vaccine against oral melanomas, the most common oral tumor. Radiation therapy and technology is expanding so that the machines that we’re using can now treat brain tumors and nasal tumors and deep-seated tumors that previously we couldn’t access surgically.

Veterinary oncology has progressed amazingly in the past two decades. Twenty years ago, most people didn’t even know dogs got cancer. Today it’s common to find people whose dogs have been treated for cancer. There are so many more facilities for treating canine cancer now, and there are veterinarians who do nothing but treat cancer.

Q: What does it cost to treat a dog with cancer?

A: It varies. There’s the diagnostic testing that’s needed prior to doing any kind of therapy, and that can range from $200 to $1,000. Then treating the cancer can range from a simple surgery for $1,000 all the way up to $15,000 if we’re dealing with something complicated that also needs radiation therapy and chemotherapy along with the surgery. They’re even doing bone marrow transplants for dogs with lymphoma. That can be very expensive.

Q: What’s the cure rate for dogs with cancer?

A: Overall, for all malignancies that we see, it’s probably in the 60-plus percent range. There are a lot of patients out there with just lumps and bumps that are being taken off by their regular veterinarian and they have a very good long-term prognosis.

Now if the cancers are left untreated, we’re talking survival times in the months, not years.

(Note: These are costs for top-level treatment at a specialist hospital. Prices for less involved options at a general veterinary practice may be much less. Costs may also vary a lot depending on where you live.)

Source: Web MD

Vanquish the Hostile Takeover of Canine Halitosis

/in , , , , , , , , /by
Vanquish the Hostile Takeover of Canine Halitosis

Image: Pixabay

Getting up-close-and-personal is your furry friend’s way of showing their unconditional love and affection for you and the last thing you want is to shy away from them just because they have a disagreeable breath. You may think it insignificant, but halitosis could be the culprit for this unpleasant odour and should be investigated promptly.

Causes

Halitosis is the condition of accumulated odour-producing bacteria in the mouth which results in bad breath.

Periodontal disease (gum or dental disease) is most notably responsible for our canine companion’s bad breath and this occurs most frequently in smaller dogs who are particularly susceptible to plaque and tartar.

Breath that remains unrelentingly offensive could be an indication of something more serious than just a need for a professional dental clean. Halitosis can be a red flag for problems associated with severe medical issues in the mouth, liver, kidneys, respiratory system, inflammation of the throat, tonsillitis, gastrointestinal tract or even metabolic disorders such as diabetes mellitus. Cancer or foreign matter in the body can also play a role in producing bad breath as they result in disease.

Bacterial, fungal and viral infections within the body can be responsible for emitting foul odours, as can dietary-related problems. Consider that when your hungry hound eats foods that have naturally offensive odours, their breath will automatically smell bad. Some pooches display behaviour known as coprophagia, where they eat faeces and will, similarly, have the same foul-smelling breath thereof.

Trauma associated with an electric cord injury may also be a possible cause of halitosis.

Symptoms

  • If there is no indication of critical issues, the offensive smell may be the solitary symptom of halitosis.
  • If a disease in the mouth is the cause, the following symptoms could appear:
  • Pawing at the mouth
  • Severely reduced appetite
  • Losing teeth
  • Drooling excessively which could have traces of blood therein
  • A peculiar sweet and fruity-smelling breath, could be a potential warning for diabetes, especially if your pup is consuming water and urinating more than usual.
  • An ammonia-like or urine-smelling breath could be indicative of kidney disease.
  • Liver problems could be the trigger when the following symptoms are displayed:
    • Foul smelling breath
    • Vomiting
    • Severely reduced appetite
    • Yellow-shaded corneas or gums

Treatment

Treatment will vary according to what’s causing the halitosis. If halitosis is brought about by periodontal disease, a dental cleaning procedure is likely to be scheduled as your pup may lose some teeth if the procedure is delayed. A professional dental clean involves scaling your dog’s teeth to eliminate any plaque or tartar accumulation along with polishing those pearly whites. Teeth appearing to have above 50 percent chance of losing the supporting gum and bone may have to be extracted. Your furry pal will undergo general anaesthesia during the clean so ensure they fast the night before and chat to your vet about any concerns you may have with regards to having them endure anaesthesia. Your veterinarian may thereafter, prescribe medication that regulates the bacteria production in the mouth, enabling a reduction in the associated odour.

If your pooch’s halitosis is triggered by something other than periodontal disease, physical examinations will have to be conducted by your veterinarian to establish whether the root cause could be attributable to a condition such as diabetes, liver, digestive or kidney problems. The subsequent treatment plan will then depend on the identified cause thereof.

Don’t hesitate to visit your veterinarian as soon as you discover any suspicious symptoms relating to halitosis so to discount any chance of them developing into critical health issues down the line. 

Prevention

Why allow your furry pal to endure the unpleasantries or dangers of halitosis when you can take the initiative in preventing it in the first place?

  • Schedule regular veterinarian checkups to be made aware of or prevent any imminent medical issues that could be triggering halitosis.
  • Ensure that both you and your vet actively monitor the condition of your dog’s teeth and breath.
  • Ensure your pup is well nourished with a high-quality diet that is easily digestible.
  • Feed your pooch specially formulated treats that reduce bad breath and tartar.
  • Brush your fur ball’s pearly whites weekly, if not daily. Use a vet-recommended toothpaste especially formulated for dogs because cat or human toothpastes can cause upset stomachs in canines.
  • Allow your dog’s teeth to be cleaned naturally, by giving them safe and tough chew toys to gnaw on.
  • There is a plethora of oral products on the market so chat to your veterinarian about the most appropriate ones for your special canine companion.

Interesting Fact
Dog breeds with flat-faced, short-nosed characteristics, also known as brachycephalic breeds, such as Boston Terriers, Pugs, Pekingese, are more inclined to periodontal diseases and conditions associated with the mouth since their little teeth are set so closely together

Written for inFURmation
by Taliah Williamson

——————————————————————————————

Disclaimer: The information produced by Infurmation is provided for general and educational purposes only and does not constitute any legal, medical or other professional advice on any subject matter. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always seek the advice of your vet or other qualified health care provider prior to starting any new diet or treatment and with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you suspect that your pet has a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.

Ceasing Sudden Weight Loss in Cats

/in , , , , , , , /by

Ceasing Sudden Weight Loss in Cats

Ceasing Sudden Weight Loss in Cats

Just like us humans, your feline friend’s weight (whether over or underweight) is an indicator of existing or impending medical conditions, and any associated indications should be addressed in a timely manner. As pet parents, we seem to worry more about the weight our feline friends are accumulating than the weight they may suddenly be losing. Sudden weight loss or cachexia in cats should be managed with the same level of concern as drastic weight gain.

If you witness a sharp fall in your cat’s weight which exceeds ten percent of their usual body weight (when fluid loss is not responsible), this should be a cause for alarm. Read on to find out why drastic weight loss in your cat is menacing to their health and how to stop those shedding kilo’s in their tracks before causing permanent damage.

Causes of Weight Loss in Cats

If you notice a sudden drop in your purry pal’s appetite and they have simultaneously experienced drastic weight loss, chances are that they may be suffering from anorexia. This is a concerning medical situation for your feline friend as anorexia leaves feline’s prone to developing fatty liver syndrome, a potentially fatal condition in which the liver is required to metabolise large quantities of stored fat to provide the body with the energy it needs to function adequately.

In some cases, a cat might continue to retain their normal appetite and still undergo weight loss which may seem inexplicable. However, a number of reasons could clarify this mysterious observation. Excessive noise, dirty food bowls, bowls being too close to the litter tray, or other pets being present in your cat’s feeding quarters could set off psychological issues in these sensitive creatures, such as depression and stress, that could spur on sudden weight loss.

Medical conditions that could be related to this case include:

  • neurologic disorders making it challenging for them to pick up or swallow food
  • oesophagus paralysis
  • fever
  • diabetes
  • heart, liver or kidney failure
  • intestinal parasites
  • gastrointestinal problems such as obstructions
  • cancer
  • hyperthyroidism
  • dental problems
  • chronic blood loss
  • pet food or diet quality
  • feline infectious peritonitis
  • pancreatic disease
  • gallbladder disease
  • inflammatory bowel disease
  • surgical removal of segments of the bowel
  • infections (bacterial, viral, fungal or chronic etc)
  • Addison’s disease (where the adrenal glands underproduce the necessary corticosteroid hormones the body require)
  • pregnancy or nursing
  • prolonged exposure to cold
  • skin lesions leading to significant loss of protein

Symptoms

Weight loss itself is a symptom of an underlying medical condition. A viable diagnosis will allow your vet to establish the root cause behind this symptom and how it presents itself with other clinical signs.

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will initiate their diagnostic examination with a series of tests to identify the primary cause for the weight loss. After conducting a general check-up of your feline companion, your vet may prescribe one or more of the following tests:

  • ultrasound of abdomen, liver and gall bladder
  • fecal studies
  • biopsy
  • detailed assessment of the pancreas
  • bile acids test
  • X-rays to check the condition of heart, abdominal organs and lungs
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  • urinalysis
  • comprehensive biochemical profile

Treatment

Based on the results of the physical exams and prescribed diagnostic tests, your vet may proceed to treat your kitty’s symptoms if they are too severe in nature for your cat to endure. Nonetheless, a treatment for the condition which is contributing to the weight loss will also be prescribed. This treatment will most likely be administered in association with dietary modifications to restore your cat’s physique to the optimal weight it once was. If your cat is experiencing conditions that make absorbing food challenging, your vet will recommend an easily-digestible dietary solution. Similarly, if your kitty is allergic to certain ingredients contained in their food, removing the offensive components could solve the weight loss problem entirely.    

Continue Reading Below

If your kitty has lost their appetite and is consequently losing weight, it may even be necessary to intervene by way of force-feeding your cat with feeding tubes or intravenously to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients until the vet can treat the cause of anorexia. Appetite stimulants may also be prescribed to trigger hunger pangs.

Management

As a responsible pet parent, ensure that you schedule regular physical examinations with your vet. Follow-up visits are also essential to closely monitor any changes in weight and keep track of your kitty’s treatment progress.

 

Written for inFURmation
by Taliah Williamson

Is your Cat’s Hair Falling Out, Wearing Out and Tearing Out?

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

is your Cat’s Hair Falling Out, Wearing Out and Tearing Out?

Stroking your feline friend’s soft coat is a pastime many pet parents obviously enjoy, but you may find yourself a little bewildered upon noticing the gradual thinning of your purry pal’s fur volume. If your cat is losing a reasonable amount of hair because of shedding season, then you can breathe as this is rather normal. However, a sudden and drastic loss of hair is a problem that you should address immediately.

Causes of Hair Loss or Alopecia in Cats

If you’ve noticed that your kitty has become abnormally engrossed in chewing and licking their fur of late rather than spending their time playing, sleeping or eating, various reasons could be triggering this unusual behaviour…

Cancer, especially in older felines, along with allergies to food, dust, pollen, medicines and insect bites can contribute to the emergence of bald spots. In an attempt to relieve the irritability, your furry feline may consistently lick the area of irritation until hair growth in that region is compromised. Your vet may also be able to identify whether the hair loss is a consequence of a hormonal imbalance due to an overactive thyroid or excessive levels of steroids.

Alopecia can also be attributed to diabetes or immune system issues so it’s vital you describe to your vet in detail what your kitty’s diet consists of, and any current behaviourial or environmental changes they may recently have experienced to help him diagnose the root cause thereof.

Parasites, for instance ticks, fleas and mice as well as fungal infections such as ringworm appearing as a dry, scabby hairless ring, are also common triggers of hair loss.

Continuous licking of the same spot may also be your cat’s way of relieving pain caused by arthritis.

Like humans, stressed and anxious felines can develop obsessive behaviours such as over-grooming, picking on their skin as well as scratching and licking which is known as “psychogenic alopecia”.

Certain feline breeds, such as Bengals and Himalayans tend to experience a higher likelihood of hair loss and are more prone to developing alopecia.

Symptoms                

The most common symptoms of alopecia appear in the form of:

  • partial or extensive hair loss
  • bald spots
  • scabbing
  • redness
  • itching

In some cases, the hair loss presents itself in wide-ranging patterns on the feline’s body, while in other scenarios, it appears more symmetrical.

Diagnosis

To identify the cause of alopecia, your vet may conduct a skin biopsy or culture to categorise any skin issues and related conditions. Any hormonal problems or imbalances are discovered by conducting a blood serum chemistry panel. Moreover, an ultrasound or X-ray maybe recommended for pinning down diseases such as cancer that could be contributing to the hair loss.  

Treatment

The treatment plan for alopecia depends on your pet’s diagnosis report. Causes such as hormonal imbalances and various skin conditions that contribute to hair loss can be treated with the prescription of topical medications. If, however, alopecia is a consequence of stress and anxiety, the vet may recommend behavioural management and training to control this problem in addition to anti-anxiety or antidepressant treatment.

Management

To manage your cat’s hair loss effectively, be sure to monitor their habits such as excessive licking, biting, scratching and chewing on parts of their body to ensure that they do not become more severe despite being treated with prescribed medication. Remember to consult with your vet periodically to report your feline friend’s progress and discuss any concerns related to their condition. Unfortunately, treatment options for hair loss are fairly restricted and effective prevention techniques are not yet available.

You know your purry pal best, so picking up on any changes in their behaviour and hair volume early on is vital to ensure you get to the bottom of the problem and receive the best treatment for it. This will ensure you have a higher possibility of restoring your full-volumed fluffy feline to their happy, healthy self.

Written for inFURmation
by Taliah Williamson

 

Doggie Dementia

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

Doggie Dementia

Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCD) is a heart-breaking condition where a dog’s brain undergoes the process of ageing which may bring about a decline in their level of awareness, learning and memory capacity as well as their reaction to stimuli. The onset of symptoms is generally minor, but over time, they get progressively worse. Unfortunately, 50% of dogs older than 11 years of age display clinical signs of cognitive dysfunction. By the age of 15 years, 68% of dogs show at least one sign.

Signs and Symptoms

  • anxiety
  • increased irritability
  • reduced interest in playing
  • appetite loss
  • changes in sleeping patterns
  • disorientation and confusion
  • reduced learning capabilities
  • failure to recall learned house rules and training
  • urinary and faecal incontinence
  • reduced interest in self-grooming
  • unnecessary licking

Symptoms of CCD can coincide with age-related issues such as diabetes, arthritis, kidney conditions, cancer as well as sight and hearing loss so it’s important that you distinguish between the actual reasons your dog isn’t behaving as they used to. Perhaps they’ve stopped chasing their tail due to painful aches. On the other hand, it could be due to a progressive cognitive decline.

A very helpful acronym that helps pet parents decipher if there’s more than meets the eye to their pooch’s condition is DISHA. DISHA was created to assist owners in distinguishing the obvious CCD symptoms and changes.

  • Disorientation and Spacial Awareness Issues – One of the most common signs is when a dog gets confused in their familiar environment. They may crawl behind an object and be unable to get out from behind it; they may enter or exit through the wrong door or stare blankly at a wall instead of doing something they’d typically do at that time of day.
  • Interactions: Your pooch might usually be the social butterfly on the block, but you gradually notice that they begin snapping or growling at dogs or children they used to be friendly to. In order to discount any physical conditions that could potentially be causing them pain, such as diabetes or arthritis, your vet will need to take blood tests, X-rays and ultrasounds. Your pooch may not show as much enthusiasm towards activities or treats that they once used to.
  • Sleep-Wake Cycle Changes A change in normal sleep patterns is a common symptom of CCD. Many pooches appear to interchange their daytime activities with their night time activities. If, for example, your dog used to sleep soundly but now paces most of the night, try leaving a light on for them or playing white noise for them. If this is unsuccessful in aiding their sleep issues, consult your vet for medication that may restore their sleep pattern.
  • House Soiling If your pooch is house-trained and suddenly begins “doing their business” indoors, this could be a vivid indication of CCD. Your dog has most probably lost the ability to control their elimination or forgotten where to eliminate entirely. If diabetes, bladder infections or kidney issues have been discounted from the equation, one can presume there’s been a cognitive decline.
  • Activity Level Although most dogs tend to become less active with age, those with CCD exhibit changes in how they respond to people, sounds and other stimuli in their environment. They may not find the enthusiasm to greet or play with you as they once did, they may display repetitive motions such as walking in circles, bobbing of the head or shaking of the legs. This behaviour is usually linked to deterioration of the brain and less likely to be confused with other conditions. Pet parents should also acknowledge that something isn’t right if their usually serene pooch begins barking unexpectedly and unnecessarily.

If you notice anything peculiar along these abovementioned lines, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Diagnosis 

Your veterinarian will require a thorough account of your dog’s medical history as well as when you initially noticed associated symptoms and the nature thereof. It’s also useful to mention any likely occurrences that may have triggered the abnormal behaviour or complications. Once a physical examination has been conducted by your vet to assess your pooch’s overall health and cognitive performance, ultrasounds, X-rays and blood tests will be carried out to discount other conditions that may be linked to cognitive dysfunction syndrome.

Treatment

Unfortunately, there is no way to stop cognitive deterioration, but it is possible to decelerate the process so that the number of problems that potentially arise can be minimised.

By feeding your pooch a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and anti-oxidants, vitamin C and E, flavonoids, beta carotenoids, selenium and carnitine carotene as well as enhancing your furry loves one’s environment, you may increase their chance of cognitive improvement. Keeping your fur child mentally and physically stimulated with food puzzles, frequent scheduled play sessions, walks and socialising with other dogs, are vital to arouse their brain activity and enhance their learning and memory capabilities.

Your veterinarian may also prescribe psychoactive medication and dietary supplements to hinder your pooch’s cognitive decline. This will be introduced in accordance with your dog’s medical history and current health status.

Management

Your pooch should be regularly assessed by your veterinarian to evaluate how they are responding to treatment as well as if there have been any developments in their symptoms. You will need to update your vet immediately if any further changes in their behaviour arise. If, however, your dog’s behaviour appears stable, bi-annual check-ups will suffice unless further issues surface.  

Written for inFURmation
by Taliah Williamson

Defying Deafness in Pets

/in , , , , /by

Deafness in Pets

Being the resilient little creatures they are, pets won’t allow losing their hearing abilities to get them down and neither should you. Animals are intuitive, intelligent beings and if taught with patience and consistency, they can learn from an early age to cope very well with their remaining four senses.

What is Deafness?

Deafness can be either partial or complete loss of your pet’s ability to hear. It’s far more common than you might think and while some animals may sadly be born with this impairment, it can also emerge later in life.

Causes

A loss of hearing in cats and dogs can occur due to the following reasons:

  • Conduction: Inflammation of the ear which hampers sound waves from reaching the nerves in the ears.
  • Nerve-related issues: Elderly pets may endure deterioration to the nerve.
  • Disease: Illnesses such as cancer and trauma may contribute to deafness.
  • Inadequate development: This affects part of the ear where nerve receptors are responsible for hearing, leading to an accumulation of fluid on and resultant damage to certain areas of the brain responsible for hearing.
  • Drugs ad Toxins: Administration of certain drugs such as antiseptics, chemotherapy and antibiotics can cause hearing impairments.
  • Genetics: Some breeds of canines are more susceptible to hearing loss, such as German Shepherds, Dalmatians, Cocker Spaniels and Boston Terriers, amongst others.

Symptoms

Watch out for the following indicators associated with hearing loss in pets:

  • gradually becoming unresponsive to sounds
  • stops responding to their name
  • seems to be unaware of loud sounds in their surroundings

As soon as you notice any of the above symptoms, it is best to consult your vet immediately.

Diagnosis

Deafness in puppies and kittens maybe a consequence of hereditary defects however, diagnosis in older animals would usually be based on identifying the underlying causes such as cancer and inflammation. Hearing tests and bacterial cultures are the most common diagnostic tools used to measure the onset of hearing loss.

Treatment

While deafness at birth is unfortunately irreversible, medical or surgical treatment methods can be prescribed depending on the extent of inflammation. Your vet may also recommend a special hearing aid for your pet. Ensure that you follow the treatment plan provided by your vet for addressing hearing loss caused by inflammation and restrict your pet’s physical activities during this treatment period. 

Helping and Caring for Hearing Impaired Pets

A deaf pet should not have to compromise on their quality of life. As their pet parent, you can play an active role in making your fur child’s life more comfortable and contented by:

  • investing in a secure fence to restrict your pet from venturing outside without your supervision (animals with audible impairments are oblivious to oncoming vehicles and this may have a devastating outcome)
  • employing the use of vibrating collars, leashes as well as tags and microchips which can help you locate your buddy in case they get lost
  • ensuring they have a tag on their collar saying, “I’m Deaf”.
  • informing others in your neighbourhood about your pet’s hearing impediment
  • patiently teaching your loyal love non-verbal cues from an early age. While your pet may be hard of hearing, it’s highly likely that their other four senses function at a heightened level to compensate for their hearing impairment. This makes them extremely alert and responsive to people’s body gestures for visual and tactile prompts, such as:
    • getting their attention by waving your hand or aiming a flashlight in their direction (avoiding the eyes) if they aren’t looking at you
    • using touching cues to catch their attention by gently pulling on their leash or softly touching their back
    • making full use of your facial expressions as pets are incredibly intuitive at reading faces. If you’re pleased with them, smile. If not, frown. That’s all it takes for them to get the picture.
    • With this said, never alarm your pet, especially whilst sleeping. Pets with hearing impairments have especially sensitive skin and are incredibly responsive to vibrations. Firmly stomping on the floor or a gentle caress on their body should be able to wake them peacefully.
  • patiently teaching your pet sign language or hand gestures from an early age, so you are prepared to communicate with them throughout their lives without relying on verbal cues, whether they are hearing impaired or not. These cues can be taught by:
    • demonstrating the action, such as tapping their back
    • drawing their interest with a treat, moving it to their nose and up to your eyes to encourage them to make eye contact with you
    • signalling your positive reinforcement sign once eye contact is made and treat your pet for their successful efforts. Treats can eventually be phased out once they’ve got the knack of a particular signal.
    • ensuring each family member is trained to use consistent signals so not to confuse your pet. It’s highly recommended to use the service of a qualified trainer to better equip you, your family and of course, your precious fur baby with the tools to ensure you make the best of your pet’s disability.

Written for inFURmation
by Taliah Williamson

Fight the effects of ageing in cats and dogs

/in , , /by

Hill's Pet Nutrition

Signs that your pet is ageing

As a ‘pet parent’ you may not like to think about the fact that your pet is getting older, perhaps because of the risks that come with age, such as cancer, arthritis, brain ageing and kidney disease. But even if your pet is ageing, he or she can now live a longer, healthier life thanks to better care and nutrition.

It’s not always easy to spot the signs that your pet is ageing. In fact in many cases pet parents often miss valuable “nutrition” years because there is little evidence of ageing at the age pets are considered “senior.”. If your pet is aged 7 and over they are considered senior. Large breed dogs reach the senior stage at age 5. “It’s not just what you see on the outside that counts. We know that inside every cell in the body, ageing is occurring,” says Dr Guy Fyvie, Veterinary Affairs Manager at Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Age-related changes start small and these small changes may seem unrelated, or at least unrelated to ageing, but if you’ve noticed your pet sleeping more or acting less excited about playtime, it’s likely that you’re actually seeing some signs of ageing. “The good news is that astute pet parents can spot the signs of ageing once they know the small changes to look out for,” adds Dr Fyvie.

Watch out for the tell TAILS signs of ageing:

  • Your pet may be confused by things that he/she used to experience easily before, such as locating their bed and bowls. They may also get stuck more frequently or find it difficult to pace around familiar obstacles like couches, coffee tables or even people. Your dog may bark for no reason.
  • Your pet may no longer be as interested in normal activities such as playing, running, grooming and exploring their environment. Instead, they may become restless and anxious, pacing around the house or fixating on objects or people.
  • Your older pet may stop socialising with you as much, losing interest in being petted, greeting you at the door or even sitting with you.
  • Loss of control. Kidney disease is common in older pets, particularly cats, and is a leading cause of illness. If your pet is drinking and urinating more, then this could be a sign that the kidneys are not functioning as they should. If you notice changes in your pets elimination routine – there should be cause for concern, it could be a sign of several conditions, including pain, bladder and kidney function and possible loss of brain function. Loss of weight and appetite can also be an indication of renal problems.
  • Sleep-Wake-Cycle. As your pet ages you may notice changes in their sleep patterns, which could indicate a brain dysfunction. This can include being awake more at night or sleeping more in the day. If your pet is restless or sleeps fitfully, there could be a problem.

The right nutrition can fight the effects ageing

The good news is that a simple change of food can make a big difference to an older pet.Through more than a decade of research into how nutrition impacts pets’ cell function, Hill’s has learned a lot about how the right food can help in fighting the effects of ageing.

Hill’s Science Plan Senior Vitality – formally known as Youthful Vitality – was developed with this in mind. This breakthrough nutrition is formulated with natural ingredients including fruits and vegetables, added fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and amino acids – all working together to fight signs of ageing.

  • Brain Function. Powerful antioxidants for a healthy brain to support desire for family interaction
  • Energy and Vitality. Protein and L-carnitine support improved activity and the ability to get moving
  • Healthy Immune System Vitamins C & E help bolster a strong immune system
  • Healthy Digestive System High quality, easy-to-digest ingredients with great taste
  • Luxurious Coat Essential fatty acids promote a coat with increased shininess and softness
  • No added artificial preservatives, flavours or colour.

Cutting-edge food science that transforms lives

In a clinical study1, pets fed Hill’s Science Plan Senior Vitality showed increased vitality, ability to get moving, running and playing, desire to interact and shinier, softer coats. In another in-house study, 70% of owners saw improvements in one or more signs of ageing after just 30 days.2

Hill’s Science Plan Senior Vitality is available for cats and mini, medium and large breed dogs in dry & delicious stews that cats and dogs love!

1 Clinical study conducted with 214 dogs aged 7-15 years and 82 cats from 8-15 years and with US veterinarians and pet owners.

2 In-House User Test study conducted with a prototype formulation (USA, 2015) via Applied Market Research (IMR) with 279 cats & dogs all above 7 years of age.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition