Cat Reunited with Owner Two Months After LA Wildfires

Tips for Managing Kidney Disease in Cats

Have you noticed that your once playful cat is recently becoming a little less energetic than usual? Are they spending more time at the water bowl? If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for signs of trouble in your cat’s behavior. After all, these small changes can sometimes be warning signs of a larger underlying issue. More specifically, these are signs often associated with kidney disease.Despite being surprisingly common in cats, especially those in their senior years, kidney disease isn’t a minor issue. This serious health challenge can significantly impact their quality of life. This post will offer practical advice and support to help you understand and manage kidney disease in your best friend, empowering you to ensure they can continue to live their best life after diagnosis.Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Disease Early detection of kidney disease in cats is crucial, allowing you to address the problem before it becomes more advanced and harder to manage. The difficulty in catching this disease early is that the initial signs can be subtle and often mimic normal aging. This can make it incredibly challenging to catch in senior cats, who are the highest risk factor. One of the first signs is an increase in thirst and urination, medically known as polydipsia and polyuria. You may notice your cat spending more time at the water bowl, the bowl needing to be filled regularly, or larger, more frequent clumps in the litter box. This is an excellent example of why, as a loving cat parent, you need to pay careful attention to your cat’s eating, drinking, and bathroom habits. They can often act as an early warning sign of trouble. Some other early warning signs include: Loss of appetiteWeight loss LethargyDecreased grooming habits DepressionRestlessness, especially at night As the disease progresses, more severe signs may emerge. Common symptoms of advanced kidney disease include vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration. This is a dangerous cycle for your cat to become trapped in, as dehydration itself can make kidney problems worse. Other signs of advanced disease include oral ulcers and a distinct, unpleasant odor in their breath, often referred to as uremic breath. If you notice any of these symptoms, even seemingly minor ones, take them seriously. Contact your veterinarian and explain your concerns. Even if it’s found that your cat is just experiencing the impact of aging, it will still provide you with important information to help improve their quality of life. Diagnostic Tests and Procedures When your veterinarian suspects your cat may be suffering from kidney disease, they can use several diagnostic tools to confirm that diagnosis and assess the extent of any kidney damage. Blood tests are generally the first step and the cornerstone of this process. Specifically, they will test the creatinine levels and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in the blood as these waste products accumulate in the bloodstream when the kidneys aren’t functioning properly. Your vet will also check phosphorus levels, as elevated phosphorus can contribute to further kidney damage. Finally, they may test the proportion of red blood cells in the total blood volume, also called the packed cell volume (PCV), as it can help assess for anemia, a common complication of kidney disease. Next, they will conduct urine tests to better understand your cat’s kidney function. They will test the concentration as diluted urine is common in cats with kidney disease. Protein levels in your cat’s urine can also indicate trouble, as healthy kidneys would work to prevent protein from leaking into the urine. Blood pressure monitoring is a crucial part of the diagnostic process, as high blood pressure is both a cause and a consequence of kidney disease. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend X-rays or an ultrasound. X-rays can be used to identify whether there has been a change in kidney size or if any kidney stones are present. Ultrasounds make it easier to assess the internal structures of your cat’s kidneys and ensure there are no abnormalities or reasons to be concerned. It’s important to remember that these tests aren’t meant to overwhelm you but rather to give your vet a clear picture of your cat’s kidney health. Completing all the necessary testing will help stage the disease and create a personalized treatment plan. Supporting Your Cat’s Kidney Health with their DietOne of the most important things you can do as part of your cat’s care team (after all, you and your veterinarian are a team) is to focus on dietary management. Unlike standard cat foods, renal diets are specially formulated to address their unique nutritional needs. They are typically lower in phosphorus, restricted in protein, and supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids, all of which play an essential role in slowing the progression of kidney damage and maintaining overall health. As already mentioned, high phosphorus levels can worsen kidney damage and contribute to other health complications. When damaged, the kidneys struggle to eliminate any excess phosphorus in the body, one of their key roles, which can cause it to build up. Renal diets are formulated to minimize phosphorus intake, but may not be enough. Your veterinarian may also recommend medications called phosphate binders that help to reduce the amount of phosphorus your cat absorbs from their food. Protein management may seem counterproductive, considering the fact senior cats generally struggle to maintain muscle mass as they get older. However, excessive protein can actually overload your cat’s kidneys, pushing them to work harder and ultimately causing further damage. Instead, the ideal diet will balance providing the high-quality protein your cat needs while reducing the burden on the kidneys. Most renal foods will be supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids. However, your vet may recommend additional supplementation, especially if they feel the levels offered by the food won’t be sufficient to see the benefits. They may also suggest a supplement for B vitamins. One challenge many cat parents face is that cats can be picky eaters! This has been an ongoing struggle in our house with my sweet senior girl, Pippen, who has big opinions on the brand and flavor of her meals. While a renal diet is clearly the best option in most cases, your cat may have other plans. What do you do then? Here are some solutions that can help encourage your cat to eat more: Warm their food slightly can help release enticing smellsExperiment with different textures and flavorsOffer smaller but more frequent mealsChange the dish you use or where they are being fedElevate their food dish in case they are reluctant due to aches and pains Try hand-feeding If your cat is still reluctant to eat after trying all the options listed, reach out to your veterinarian. They may be able to offer advice on additional strategies or prescribe an appetite stimulant.

Ready to De-Stress Bath Time for Your Dog?

(photo credit: Gudman / shutterstock.com)I was raised to believe you shouldn’t bathe a dog because it would deplete the natural oils in their fur and dry out their skin. Back in the day, it was assumed that a dog’s ability to self-groom was sufficient to take care of whatever clean-up they might need.Fast forward, and with dogs sleeping in our beds and snuggling on our sofas, we’re suddenly much more aware of the need to keep our pets well-groomed and yes, smelling fresher.Aesthetics aside, bathing your dog not only allows you to check for ticks, sores, and lumps that shouldn’t be there, but a periodic scrub can also keep his skin and hair, healthy. With some breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, and West Highland Terriers (to name a few), a skin condition called Seborrhea can be common. Yes, just like with humans it’s down to an increased production of skin cells and/or skin oils.When it’s the dry version, you get flaky, scaly skin cells (dandruff) caused by excess keratin production. When oily, you get a waxy substance comes from the sebaceous glands which causes your dog’s coat to look greasy.Whether your pooch falls into the above category or he simply loves to dig, burrow, and roll in whatever he can when given the chance, cleaning him up is something you both deserve.

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What Are The Symptoms of Malnourishment in Dogs?

Ensuring a dog receives proper nutrition is essential for their overall health and well-being, but unfortunately, not all dogs get the nutrients they need. Malnourishment in dogs is a serious issue that can lead to long-term health complications. Whether due to poor diet, neglect, or an underlying medical condition, recognizing the signs early can make all the difference. Let’s take a closer look at what malnourishment in dogs looks like and what you can do to help.Physical Signs of Malnourishment in DogsOne of the most obvious indicators of malnourishment is weight loss. If you can easily see a dog’s ribs, spine, or hip bones, they may not be getting enough nutrients. A healthy dog should have a slight waistline but should not appear overly thin.Another telltale sign is a dull, brittle coat. A lack of essential vitamins and fatty acids can cause a dog's fur to lose its shine, become dry, and even fall out in patches. Similarly, dry, flaky, or irritated skin is another red flag that your pup isn’t getting the proper nutrition.

Massachusetts Banned Cat Declawing

Declawing cats has now become illegal in Massachusetts, thanks to a law that was signed by Governor Maura Healey. Titled “An Act Prohibiting Inhumane Feline Declawing,” the law bans the procedure in the state. Those who violate the law can face fines or be subject to discipline.  

How To Care for a Hairless Cat

Are you thinking about bringing a hairless cat like the Sphynx, Peterbald, or Donskoy into your family? That’s great! But before you adopt one from a shelter/rescue or purchase one from a reputable breeder, take some time to research the needs of these unique cats. That way, you’ll know what to expect when it comes to properly caring for them.Here’s some helpful information and tips on caring for a hairless cat. You might be surprised by what they need. 

How Long Can You Leave Your Cat Alone at Home?

Cats are generally considered self-sufficient, independent, and somewhat aloof pets. In many cases, they won’t ask for constant attention, and will sometimes act as if they own you. Still, even though these can be very smart and free-spirited pets, the question remains – how independent are they really? Some owners wonder whether it is a smart decision to leave their cat alone at home even if they are not clingy, and if they will be able to stay safe in that case. Here’s what to know about leaving your feline friend home alone. How Long Can You Leave Your Cat Alone at Home?Sure, cats are independent and quirky. But like all animals and pets out there, they will require your attention and regular care. And even though they are much more independent than dogs, they will still rely on a steady routine that provides them with water, food, and a clean litter box. Usually, adult cats can be left alone for up to 24 to 48 hours, but it's essential to provide sufficient food, water, and clean litter before you leave.

Tripping Over Cat Toys? Problem Solved!

(photo credit: New Africa / shutterstock.com)Are you tired of stepping on squeaky toys and finding plush playthings tucked behind sofa cushions and under furniture each morning? If your home is like mine, my two felines tend to “harvest” their loot sometime during the wee hours of the morning. That’s when I’m asleep and they’re roaming the house for something to do. Swat a catnip mouse around for a while, cart a fuzzy toy about, drop them both and search for something else to hunt down and parade around. Mornings at my home look like a PetSmart war zone with fluffy bits and pieces discarded all over the place.Now, I’m not suggesting that you can train a cat to put her toys back where she got them, but having a dedicated space means that all her stuff can be centrally located and, at least for the better part of a day, you get to reclaim your living space and stash her booty in a handy little bin that she can access later on - after hours.

What is Trancing in Dogs?

If your dog likes to take it really slow and easy when walking under objects, he may be trancing.

Cat Breeds That Actually Like Water

Cats have a reputation for not liking water and avoiding getting wet. But there are several cat breeds that actually love water, don’t mind getting wet, and will even go swimming without a complaint. Of course, every cat is an individual, so even among breeds that are generally known for liking water, you might find kitties who aren’t fans of doing anything other than drinking it. If you’re interested in bringing home a cat who likes water, here’s a list of some of the breeds that you can consider.

Man Reunited with Dog After Cancer Kept Them Apart for Two Years

A man had to give up his beloved dog while he was battling cancer, but two years later, they were reunited.

How to Prevent E. Coli in Dogs

We often talk about the importance of addressing bacteria to keep people safe, but what about our pets? One example that can also put our furry friends at risk is E. coli.E. coli bacteria can be a serious threat to dogs, causing a range of illnesses, from mild diarrhea to severe kidney failure. While most dogs will recover with proper treatment, prevention is key. After all, no dog parent wants to see their best friend suffer unnecessarily.This blog post will look at the common causes of E. coli infection in dogs, effective ways to prevent an infection, and when you should seek veterinary care. By understanding the risks and taking steps to keep your pup safe, you can help them live a happy, healthy life.What is E. Coli?Escherichia coli, better known as E. coli, is a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and other animals. Some strains are beneficial, serving important roles like helping to digest food and producing vitamin K. However, not all E. coli bacteria strains are good.Harmful E. coli strains produce toxins that can damage the lining of the intestines, leading to feeling sick and uncomfortable. In severe cases, E. coli infections can be life-threatening.For dogs, the most dangerous strains of E. coli are those that produce Shiga toxin, a bacterial toxin that damages red blood cells and the lining of the intestines. This can lead to severe complications like hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a condition that can negatively impact the negativities and the blood clotting system. HUS can be fatal if left untreated.Symptoms of an E.Coli Infection in DogsIf you suspect your dog may have an E. coli infection, it’s crucial to recognize the signs and seek veterinary care promptly. While the symptoms of E. coli can sometimes mimic other illnesses, identifying the common signs of trouble can help you know when to take immediate action.Common symptoms include:Diarrhea: This is often a primary symptom, and the stool may be watery or contain blood.Vomiting: Dogs with E. coli infections may experience vomiting, which can be accompanied by loss of appetite.Lethargy: Infected dogs may appear tired, weak, or less active than usual.Dehydration: Severe diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, which can be life-threatening. Signs of dehydration include decreased skin elasticity, sunken eyes, and dry gums.Abdominal Pain: Your dog may show signs of discomfort or pain in their abdomen.If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to give your pup the best chance of a quick recovery and prevent complications. Your veterinarian may perform a fecal test to confirm the presence of the bacteria before recommending the best course of action.

How to Train a Dog To Wear a Halloween Costume?

Spooky season is upon us, and that means trick-or-treating, creepy decorations, cozy vibes, and, of course, scary Halloween costumes. Now, if you are a dog owner, you would naturally want your pet to wear a costume as well – ideally a one to match your own. And while this sounds quite fun, it can be difficult to get your furry friend to actually wear one. There are some dogs who are comfortable with getting dressed up, but many simply dread that idea. So how exactly can you train your dog to wear Halloween costumes if they’re not too keen on it? Here are a few tips to make trick or treating a stress-free and easy experience.How to Train a Dog To Wear a Halloween CostumeNaturally, the first and foremost step is choosing the costume. But keep in mind - it has to be the right costume. You need to consider your pet’s size, breed, and mobility before you make a choice. Tight and uncomfortable costumes simply won’t do and will cause more trouble than needed. If your pet is not a fan of dressing up, go for lightweight and simple Halloween costumes that are made from breathable and safe materials. Any unnecessary parts and tidbits that could irritate and confuse your pet need to be avoided. Of course, this also means that you need to get the right size. It is good to take some measurements of your dog before you make the purchase. 

It's Muddy Paw Season! Are You Ready?

(photo credit: FoodFocus / shutterstock.com)One of the true rites of passage to being a dog owner is dealing with muddy paws. During the pandemic, I was glued to the myriad designer shows that were streaming on every network. And I think I may have drooled a little as I watched them stroll through those renovated homes that now featured mud rooms and something that’s I considered totally OTT - dog washing stations. I mean it’s really just a hand-held showerhead that you use to hose off muddy feet before they go racing through the house, across the carpets and onto the furniture. But what a concept – cleaning your dog’s paws before he enters the house.With three dogs and an amazing 19-acre leash-free park just a five-minute drive away, we enjoy having the room to roam during all four seasons. And because that includes those mushy snow thaws and spring showers, we’re talking mud. And lots of it. I’ve tried bringing damp towels to clean off dirty feet as well as those pre-moistened baby wipes that a fellow pet parent once suggested. Neither was enough to make a dent in the dirt.

What is the Yearly Cost of Owning a Dog or Cat?

Sharing your heart and your home with a pet is a rewarding experience. But before you jump into adopting a new friend or gifting a furry companion this holiday season, you need to be aware of the financial responsibilities of pet ownership.While the initial costs of adopting a dog or cat might be relatively low, ongoing expenses can add up over time.Food and veterinary care are often the most significant costs of pet ownership. High-quality food tailored to your pet's size and breed is essential, as are regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and dental cleanings. Unexpected illnesses or injuries can also lead to significant vet bills, making a dedicated pet savings account crucial.Let’s break down the costs associated with being a pet parent…The True Cost of Owning a Dog or CatOften, when people consider adding a pet to their family for the first time, they focus solely on the cost of adoption. Finding a pet being rehomed for a low price or even given away “free to a good home” appears to be a low-cost and easy decision. However, this overlooks the expenses you commit to for the next 10-15 years (or longer).To help you make an educated decision on whether you are ready for the responsibilities of adding a pet to your family, here are the costs to consider: Recurring Annual Costs of Owning a PetMany costs related to owning a pet are guaranteed, recurring, and predictable. These are the costs associated with providing your best friend with the basic necessities of life, as well as some additional costs you can incur while improving your new pet’s quality of life.FoodAccording to a report from Rover, the average monthly cost of feeding a dog will range from $45 to $345.The exact cost to feed your new pet will depend on several factors, including their size, activity levels, and unique nutritional needs. Plus, when shopping for pet food, you’ll find that the cost can vary significantly from brand to brand.From wet foods to kibble, commercial diets to raw feeding – there are many options to consider. There are many low-cost foods, but the purchase price may not be the best indicator of whether they will be budget-friendly in the long term. The feeding guidelines on lower-quality foods often suggest feeding larger amounts to ensure your pet gets the same nutrients. This means they will finish the bag faster, requiring you to buy food more often.Failing to meet your pet’s nutritional needs will directly impact their overall health and well-being. This often means higher veterinary bills throughout their life.Regular Veterinary CareSpeaking of veterinary bills, there are ongoing costs here as well. There is a very wide range of costs associated with veterinary care depending on your pet’s age, previous veterinary care, preventative care, and more. At the very least, you must budget for your pet’s annual vet exam, necessary vaccinations, and dental care. Vet costs also vary from state to state.According to Care Credit, the average cost of a routine vet visit ranges from $50-250. Additionally, other costs you will need to consider include:Heartworm Testing: $35-50Heartworm Prevention: $9-11/monthCore Dog Vaccinations (Rabies & DHPP): $40-90Core Cat Vaccinations (Rabies & FVRCP): $40-70While not required, other vet-related costs that you may also face include non-core vaccinations (such as Bordetella, Lyme, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Feline Leukemia or Chlamydophila Felis), flea and tick prevention, or optional blood work recommended at specific stages of your pet’s life.GroomingYour new pet’s grooming requirements may range from easy home maintenance to extensive grooming appointments. This will depend on their species/breed and coat type. For short-haired dogs and cats, this could be as simple as brushing and nail trimming, which can be done at home (if your pet will tolerate it).However, those with longer coats may need further care, like bathing and hair clipping.A professional groomer can handle all these services, including ear cleaning and sometimes teeth brushing. However, the cost can range from $30-100 or more per session. How frequently you need to book a grooming session will also vary. Most groomers recommend rebooking approximately every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the pet’s specific needs.Pet Sitters/DaycareNot every pet parent will need to pay for pet sitters or daycare; it depends on your schedule and lifestyle. If your work keeps you away from the house for extended periods or you like to travel, this is a necessary expense to consider.The amount of time your pet can stay home alone will depend on several factors, including age, health, and energy level. The average adult dog or cat can be home alone for 8-10 hours or a standard workday. But this may be too long for puppies still going through the potty-training experience or senior pups who need to go to the bathroom more frequently.Dog daycare facilities cost $35-50/day on average. This assumes your pet is comfortable and well-behaved in this setting. If you need a pet sitter for a dog or cat, you can expect to pay approximately $20-30 for a single-pet drop-in visit. These costs will be higher if you have multiple pets, live in a more remote location, or expect the sitter to stay for a longer visit (or overnight).Training The cost of dog training will vary significantly, influenced by your location, the level of training your pup needs, and your chosen training approach. The secret to success is prioritizing training before their behavior becomes a concern.Basic obedience or puppy training classes generally range from $150-250 for a 4-6 session course. This is for dogs who have not previously completed basic training, creating a foundation for good behavior. It is not, however, the approach for addressing problem behaviors that have developed and need more specialized focus.Private 1-on-1 classes will be more expensive, costing approximately $100-150 per hour in most locations. This cost can run considerably higher for more intensive training or serious behavioral concerns. This includes dogs with severe separation anxiety, aggression, reactivity, and other destructive or potentially dangerous behaviors.Other ExpensesBeyond the above-listed costs, there are several other expenses to consider. This includes items like collars, leashes, harnesses, treats, toys, chews (for entertainment and dental health), pet beds, carriers, and other products needed to create the quality of life you envision for your new family member.

VetShopMax: The Affordable Solution to High-Cost Pet Medications

Why Pay More? Get the Same Pet Meds for Less—No Vet Prescription Needed!Picture this: You’re standing at the vet’s office, holding your happy, tail-wagging pup, when the receptionist hands you the bill. Your heart skips a beat. That tiny box of flea and tick meds costs HOW much?!It’s a story too many pet parents know all too well. Keeping our pets safe from fleas, ticks, and heartworms isn’t optional—but when vet prices keep climbing, it can feel impossible to afford. Skipping treatments isn’t an option, but neither is emptying your wallet every month.That’s why so many pet owners are turning to VetShopMax—an online pet pharmacy that sells the same trusted flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives without the need for a vet prescription and for way less than what clinics charge.

7 Toy Dog Breeds That Stay Tiny and Adorable

Do you find little dogs irresistible? Maybe it’s their compact size or the fact that you can comfortably hold them in your arms. Maybe you’re looking for a dog who will stay small so you can more easily take them wherever you go, or so you can live comfortably with them in a small house or apartment. Whatever your reason is for your search for tiny dogs, there are a host of toy dog breeds that are sure to fulfill your expectations. Here are just seven of the many adorably small doggies that make awesome pets.

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Stream these 10 dog-related movies and warm your heart at Christmas.