When a cat’s ear is swollen, the usual culprit is an aural (ear) hematoma. It’s basically a large blister of the ear flap that’s filled with blood. The condition is commonly associated with persistent head-shaking due to the presence of ear mites, itchy ears as a result of allergy, or an ear infection.

There are many tiny blood vessels in the ears, and head-shaking can cause damage to these vessels, resulting in blood seeping between the skin and cartilage, and forming a blister on the ear flap. The hematoma may involve only a part of the ear flap, or the entire flap which may occlude the ear canal.

The most common predisposing factor of aural hematomas is an ear infection, but there are other potential causes of the problem. A hotspot near the ears, irritation caused by grass awn or foxtail in the ears, ear mites, or even an autoimmu ... Read more »

Your pet is a wonderful part of your life, and you really enjoy being able to spend time with him as often as is possible. However, this won’t be all day every day as you have other commitments to tend to. Your little fur ball tends to get upset when he notices you are leaving. Could he be experiencing separation anxiety?

While most pets would rather you be home with them and therefore may be disappointed at your departure, separation anxiety goes a bit deeper than this. Pet’s experiencing it have genuine trouble being away from their owners, and their behavior changes, sometimes radically, because of this. If your pet is acting out of the ordinary when you leave or you take note of differences upon your arrival home, this may be an issue that needs to be addressed. Your local Fort Collins, CO vet can help you ... Read more »

Your cat is a big part of your life, and nothing brings you more joy than seeing her happily go about her day. Treats can really bring her spirits up, so you want to be able to offer them to her every now and then. How can you choose treats for her from the vast array of those on the market?

Every pet is different, and each will have their own nutritional needs as well as their own personal preferences. You will need to take both of these into account when trying to assess treats for your pet. Consider supplementing her diet with a high-quality treat that packs a nutritional punch, particularly in areas that her regular food may be lacking. Opt for flavors and textures she will find appealing as well so she can really enjoy her treats. Your local Fort Collins, CO vet clinic can help you care for your pet. For additional information, visit site ... Read more »

Guinea pigs make fun pets because they’re so social! Not only will they like spending time with you and your family, they enjoy spending time with their cage mates. This can cause problems if there’s a loss in your guinea pig family. Here’s how to successfully pair up the pig that’s been left behind.

First, consider having your guinea pig fixed. Although it’s not absolutely essential, spayed and neutered guinea pigs tend to be a bit friendlier than animals that aren’t fixed.

Allow your guinea pig to spend time with a few different animals before you decide on the one you want to take home. Some pet stores will allow you to bring in your pet for a little playtime. The animal shelter is a good place to check too.

For help bonding your guinea pigs, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian Livonia, MI.

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Your new puppy has instantly grabbed ahold of your heart, and it’s important to you that you offer her a comfortable home to spend her time in. However, since you haven’t had a dog in this space in a while, you know there are some areas that will need to be altered a bit.

Things that may be acceptable for your human family may be hazardous to your puppy. Consider areas that house cleaning products or other harsh chemicals. Your family may know to leave these alone, but your pet won’t. Remove these as well as anything sharp from your pet’s reach. Things your pet could get stuck in, tangled within, choke on, or accidentally ingest should also be placed in an area that your little fur ball can’t get to.  Your local trustworthy Fort Collins CO vet can offer additional ... Read more »

Your dog loves spending time outside, and your yard is where he does this for the good majority of the time. In order to keep your yard dog friendly, you will need to take the time to determine what your pet really needs within this space.

Your pet loves being outside because it helps him engage in his surroundings and get a change of scenery. This means that your pet will need things to keep him busy so he doesn’t get too curious about things just out of his reach. Offer plenty of toys as well as your time to play with him. You should also be mindful of hazards, like garden tools and other animals, and do your best to keep these away from your little fur ball. For more information, p ... Read more »