A cat that has been in a fight and bitten by another cat usually appears in good health after the encounter. However, the pathogenic microorganisms which have been introduced into the cat’s body with the bites can multiply and incite an inflammatory process within the site. Fever soon sets in within 2-4 days and the cat appears lethargic, often with a poor appetite. When owners first observe their cat’s behavior, they usually bring their cats to their veterinarian who will diagnose the case based on history and a thorough physical examination. At this time, the abscess appears firm to the touch or as a soft tender swelling and the area feels warm. Upon closer examination, puncture wound and skin lacerations or scratch marks may be present. Cases of cat abscess are often found on the face, legs, back, neck, and tail.

Any change in your pet’s health and/or behavior warrants a visit to your Rochester, N ... Read more »

Cherry Eye is medically termed as “Prolapse of the Gland of the Third Eyelid”. It usually occurs during the first few years of life. The specific cause of the prolapse has not been fully established but some experts point to the weakening of the connective tissue surrounding the gland. As the connective tissue that keeps the gland in place weakens, the gland’s normal orientation is slowly altered. When this happens, the gland can become irritated and inflamed. As the gland swells, it gives off a clear or mucoid discharge. When proper medical treatment is not given, the third eyelid can become ulcerated and bloody, leading to the development of conjunctivitis.

The inflammatory process associated with Cherry Eye may be due to an infection caused by bacteria, parasite or fungi. Non-infectious causes may include cancer, traumatic injury, metabolic disease, problem of the immune system, or damage caused b ... Read more »

The process of implanting a microchip under the skin takes less than 10 seconds. A microchip usually comes preloaded in a syringe which is then inserted under the skin just between the blades of the shoulder. Most dogs do not feel any pain when the microchip is inserted. As a reaction to the presence of a foreign body, the tissue surrounding the microchip undergoes a form of reaction resulting in the formation of tissues around the microchip acting like a casing which helps keep the microchip in place. Rejection and < ... Read more »

The process of implanting a microchip under the skin takes less than 10 seconds. A microchip usually comes preloaded in a syringe which is then inserted under the skin just between the blades of the shoulder. Most dogs do not feel any pain when the microchip is inserted. As a reaction to the presence of a foreign body, the tissue surrounding the microchip undergoes a form of reaction resulting in the formation of tissues around the microchip acting like a casing which helps keep the microchip in p ... Read more »

The process of implanting a microchip under the skin takes less than 10 seconds. A microchip usually comes preloaded in a syringe which is then inserted under the skin just between the blades of the shoulder. Most dogs do not feel any pain when the microchip is inserted. As a reaction to the presence of a foreign body, the tissue surrounding the microchip undergoes a form of reaction resulting in the formation of tissues around the microchip acting like a casing which helps keep the microchip in pla ... Read more »

The Manx Syndrome, also called Sacro-caudal Dysgenesis is responsible for the lack a typical tail of Manx cats. When a kitten inherits a Manx gene from both of its parents, it is said to be homozygous. These kittens die early in life. On the other hand, heterozygous kittens or those that inherit just one gene from either of their parents also have a mortality rate which is higher than average. Manx breeders usually consider the first three weeks after birth as the most critical period and are constantly on the watch for any signs of serious defects at this time.

The so-called Manx gene has been found to be responsible for congenital defects of the colon, fusions of the bones of the spine, and spina bifida. These neurological problems can often result in mobility difficulties and fecal or urinary incontinence. Since these problems have been traced to the Manx gene, careful breeding will ensure a higher survival rate of ... Read more »

When two Scottish Fold cats that carry the “Fold” gene are mated, it will increase the risk of skeletal deformities in the offspring. Kittens that inherit one “Fold” gene from each parent are called “Homozygous Folds”. They are prone to developing Congenital Osteodystrophy which is a congenital problem that causes distortion and enlargement of the bones. Affected kittens become crippled. You can easily tell whether a newborn kitten is suffering from this defect when it lacks mobility of the legs or tail.

Contrary to popular belief, Scottish Folds are not prone to deafness. Their folded ears only need to be cleaned at least twice a month to prevent wax build-up.

Before buying or getting a Scottish Fold kitten from a reputable breeder, it is a good idea to ask for papers that show the parents and grandparents of the litter are free from hereditary ... Read more »