If you share your home with a furry companion, there is a good chance that you’ve heard about microchipping. However, you might not understand how it can help your pet. What are the benefits to microchipping your little fur ball?

Your pet needs your help to keep her safe in the comfort of your home, but even if you are vigilant there is still a chance that your pet could get out and find herself lost somewhere. A collar can be lost or removed, but a microchip can’t. It sits just under the skin on her back, and can be scanned to reveal your contact information. In many cases, a microchip has been what reunites a pet with her family, as it offers another layer of protection that otherwise wouldn’t be there. For additional information, please contact your local Indianapolis, IN vet clinic. ... Read more »

When cats reach their 10^th to 12^th year, their bodies start deteriorating as age-related problems take their toll. Your senior cat will benefit from extra care and attention as their bodies deal with the wear and tear of the years. Here are some ways to help improve the quality of life of your senior pet:

Keep your pet’s claws well-trimmed

As they become less active than they used, senior cats don’t spend as much time with the scratching posts or pads. Without regular nail trimming, their claws can grow too long and this can make it hard for them to walk. Claws that are overgrown can pierce the paws and can be very painful. Make sure the right nail clipper and steer clear of the quick. If you are not sure how to trim your pet’s nails properly, you can ask your North Phoenix, AZ vet or groomer to show you how it’s done. For additi ... Read more »

The hair coats of cats are not only available in two types as what most people think. In addition to short hairs and long hairs, some cats have semi long hairs, curly or wavy hair, while there are those with little or no fur.

Short-haired cats

Their smooth and sleek hair coats will only require a little grooming help from their owners. A weekly grooming can help keep their hair coats ... Read more »

A defect in the heart structure or function can lead to heart failure. It is a life-threatening problem that needs prompt veterinary attention. A defect in the heart will interfere in the heart’s ability to pump normal amounts of blood throughout the body. When this happens, congestive heart failure can occur; symptoms are largely in part due to the retention of fluid in the lungs and body cavities of the animal.

In dogs, heart failure can be a consequence of various health issues; it could be a congenital defect, or one of the consequences of heartworm disease, heart valve degeneration, heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy), diseases affecting the lining of the heart (pericardium), and arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythm). In giant dog breeds, heart failure can predispose cardiomyopathy. On the other hand, degeneration of heart valve tissues in small dog breeds is an important cause of heart failure.

... Read more »

Some cats do their business elsewhere because their litter box is too small or because it comes with a cover. Litter box issues that cats may have can be triggered by a variety of reasons. Identifying the underlying cause and addressing it appropriately is an important way to address these problems.

Many litter boxes that are sold in stores are unable to accommodate large breeds or overweight cats comfortably. Senior pets with arthritis or joint problems can have a hard time going in and out of a litter box with high sides. Some cat owners remedy the problem by using a plastic box just like the one that’s being used for under-the-bed storage. They are big enough to allow cats to get in and out easily and engage in pre- and post-elimination practices without any problem. As a rule of thumb, a litter box should be about 1.5 times the length of the cat you are buying it for. If you are not sure about the length of ... Read more »