Choking can be a common occurrence in animals including cats like the Maine Coon cat. Cats can choke on toys, bones, yarn, or just about anything else that will fit in their mouth. Signs of choking may include pawing at the mouth, drooling, coughing, gagging, panicking, labored breathing, or inability to eat or drink. If your cat is having trouble eating or swallowing then he may be choking and you should call your vet immediately. Your vet may give you over the phone directions to check your cat’s throat for any foreign objects. If this doesn’t work, you may need to take your cat to the nearest vet. The vet will be able to pull the cat’s tongue forward to check for blockage. He may also perform an animal version of the Heimlich maneuver. For more information about signs of choking and what to do, talk with your veterinarian Los Gat ... Read more »

Guinea pigs need exercise to keep healthy and happy. It will help prevent obesity, which can cause health issues and even shorten your pig’s life span. Since your guinea pig spends most of his time in his enclosure, try to make it fun and full of exercise opportunities. Ramps, tunnels and things to climb are fun and can keep your pig active. Do not give your pig and exercise wheel since this puts too much curvature in the back and can injure him. Your guinea pig also needs about a half hour daily outside his enclosure for exercise. This also gives him time for socialization and bonding with his human family. Clear the area of dangers such as toxic plants or electric cords. Supervise your pig whenever he is outside the enclosure. Your pig will love running around and exploring but provide things to climb on and run through. For more information, contact your Flushing, MI veterinarian.

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Is your spunky Havanese pup constantly bouncing on and off of your furniture? Are you having trouble training him to stay off? If so, talk with your vet about the possibility of using a scat mat. In general, a scat mat is a touch sensitive training pad that teaches your pet to stay off of the furniture or away from other prohibited areas. The scat mat releases a low power electronic pulse similar to static electricity. The clear and flexible vinyl scat mat can be placed at the entrance to a room, on furniture, or on counter tops. If your pet touches the mat he will feel three small zaps that will warn him to stay away. Most pets seem to understand the zaps and refrain from the mats and the protected furniture. For more information about scat mats or alternative training methods, contact your veterinarian Crown Point, IN.

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