Getting a cat to drink enough water can be quite a challenge. Even with a water bowl filled with fresh clean water within easy reach, some cats will hardly take a sip. And this can significantly increase their susceptibility to developing chronic mild dehydration, which can adversely affect their health and wellbeing in time.

Cats with kidney problems are more at risk of developing dehydration. Fortunately, there are various ways to encourage your kitty to increase his intake of water – offering canned pet, installing a water fountain, or a dripping faucet. Canned pet food generally contains 70-80% moisture. Just make sure to choose lifestage-appropriate premium quality pet food.

Feline kidneys have evolved to be more efficient in water absorption so there will be sufficient amounts of water in the body that is vital in various important physiological functions. If there are distinct changes in your pet’s water intake, you should take your pet to your Coo ... Read more »

Did you know that chronic stress can weaken the integrity of the cat’s immune system? Cats that are constantly exposed to stressors in their immediate environment ran the risk of developing health and behavior problems.

When exposed to stress, the cat’s body reacts by stimulating the adrenal glands to secrete hormones that cause a sudden increase in the animal’s heart rate and blood pressure. There is also a subsequent increase in the amount of sugar in blood. These physiological responses are part of the body’s “fight or flight” response to a specific situation that they are exposed to. Cats that are chronically exposed to stress will in time, display signs of a body that is exhausted. Chronic stress can also play a significant role in reducing the cat’s rate of recovery from a variety of health issues. Any change in your pet’s health and/or behavior should be brought to the attention of your ... Read more »

Did you know that chronic stress can weaken the integrity of the cat’s immune system? Cats that are constantly exposed to stressors in their immediate environment ran the risk of developing health and behavior problems.

When exposed to stress, the cat’s body reacts by stimulating the adrenal glands to secrete hormones that cause a sudden increase in the animal’s heart rate and blood pressure. There is also a subsequent increase in the amount of sugar in blood. These physiological responses are part of the body’s “fight or flight” response to a specific situation that they are exposed to. Cats that are chronically exposed to stress will in time, display signs of a body that is exhausted. Chronic stress can also play a significant role in reducing the cat’s rate of recovery from a variety of health issues. Any change in your pet’s health and/or behavior should be brought to the attention of your best pet clinic Coon Rapids MN.

Most dogs that beg at the dinner table do so because it works. Your dog begs and he gets food. Thus the first step in stopping this unpleasant habit is to not feed your dog from the table regardless of how much he begs. Make sure all family members agree to this new procedure. Make your dog sit or lie down while you are eating so he is below the table level. You may even need to have him sit on the other side of the room or in another room. Consider feeding your dog his food in his bowl while you are eating so he gets to eat but without the begging. Praise your dog whenever he is sitting or lying down quietly without begging for food while you are eating. Be patient and kind and over time your dog will get the message that begging is not appropriate behavior. Learn more from your ... Read more »

You’re sitting on the couch, browsing the internet on a mobile device or watching a little TV. You glance at your cat who’s sitting on the floor, and he looks like he’s plotting your murder. Why does your cat look like he wants to kill you?

Cats have a knack for giving judgmental looks, but there’s actually nothing to worry about. Those squinty eyes don’t mean your cat wants you dead. As a matter of fact, it means quite the opposite.

Only cats that are comfortable are able to slow blink and squint. It means that your furry friend feels relaxed and safe enough that he can doze. In appreciation, he may gaze in your direction and blink slowly. It looks like he’s plotting your demise, but he’s really telling you that he loves you!

To learn more about what your ... Read more »

The diet of diabetic cats is an important factor in controlling blood sugar levels not only humans but also in cats and dogs. Clinical cases have shown that there is an increased possibility of diabetic remission when diabetic cats are given an appropriate diet and medication. When the body is able to maintain the level of blood sugar within healthy limits, insulin treatment may not be needed.  Just like any health issue, the earlier the symptoms are noticed and brought to veterinary attention, the higher will be the possibility of a favorable prognosis.

Cats are carnivores and they thrive on a diet whose major component is animal-based protein. They only need moderate amounts of fats, and minimal amounts of carbohydrates. This means that at least 50% of the daily calorie intake of cats should be composed of meat, 20-45% fat, and 1-2% carbohydrates.

You can also ask for advice from your Coon Rapids, MN veterinarian regarding the nutritional regimen of your diabe ... Read more »

Your pet means the world to you, and you remember the day you brought her home like it was yesterday. This means that you not only brought her into your family that day, but that you also took the time to evaluate and alter your living space to make sure she would be safe in your home.

Now that your pet is older, you want to make sure you are still giving her what she needs in limitations to keep her enjoying herself worry-free. This means that you will not only need to ensure that your initial pet-proofing measures have been kept in place, but that you have adapted to your pet’s changing interests and abilities as she’s grown. Think about her capabilities now as opposed to when she first entered your household, then adjust your care as needed. For more information, please contact your local Sayville, NY vet clinic.

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All animals need plenty of water to drink, and even the smallest animals can surprise you with how much water they need! That’s why it’s so disturbing if you discover that your furry friend isn’t getting enough H2O. Why isn’t your rat drinking enough water, and what can you do about it?

First, take a close look at the water bottle. Is it easy to use? Water bottles that use a spring can make it difficult for your pet to get a drink. Instead, choose a water bottle that only uses a heavy metal ball.

How often do you replace the water and clean the water bottle? You really need to replace the water in the water bottle every day. You should also plan on cleaning the water bottle at least once a week.

Check the placement of the water bottle too! You may also need to consider scheduling an ... Read more »

First, check your pet’s breath. Dogs are notorious for having stinky breath because their teeth aren’t brushed as often as they should be. Plaque and tartar can easily build up on the teeth, making your pet’s breath stink. Start brushing his teeth before he ends up with gum disease and his breath smells even worse.

Hate that wet dog smell? It’s not an uncommon stench, even if you wash your dog regularly. In addition, it may not be caused by moisture either! That smell is usually the result of oil building up on your dog’s skin, and over-washing may actually cause him to produce more of it. A dry bath provides the perfect compromise if your dog isn’t due for a traditional bath for a little while.

For help figuring out why your dog smells, click here, or plan a visit to your veterina ... Read more »

Your guinea pig relies on you to set up a home for him that will keep him healthy and happy. Choose a large cage for your pig of at least 30 inches X 36 inches in size. A cage with metal bars is preferable to an aquarium since these can get hot. Place the cage out of direct sunlight and away from drafts. Make sure the cage is secure including the top. Line the cage with a paper liner since your pig may nibble on it plus several inches of kiln-dried pine shavings or paper-based bedding. Cedar shavings are not recommended since they can cause respiratory issues. Include a hidey house for privacy and some fun toys and exercise apparatus to keep your pig busy. Provide a ceramic bowl for food and a water bottle with a stainless steel sipper tube.For more information, contact Minnetonka, MN veterinarian or click here.

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Both canines and felines are prone to gum diseases such as gingivitis. Like people, it’s important for cats and dogs to have clean teeth and gums. This goes for your Scottish Fold as well. You can pick up a cat toothbrush and cat toothpaste from your local vet.  You can also feed your cat crunchy snacks to help break down tartar and plaque. Bad breath is often a sign of gingivitis. If your Scottish Fold has bad breath you should call and make an appointment with your vet. Gingivitis causes inflammation and irritation to the gums and is one of the first stages of periodontal disease. If not treated it can lead to other gum or tooth related infections and diseases. Plaque and food build up or tartar build up can cause gingivitis. Advanced gingivitis can occur with plaque plus calculus builds up on the gums. Talk with your vet Columbia, MD to learn more.

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