Keep Your Cat Safe in a Heat Wave

The temperature is soaring, and it’s only going to get hotter. Make sure you know how to keep your cat safe in the summer heat.

1. Watch out for heatstroke. Symptoms include panting, lethargy, drooling, fever, vomiting and collapse. If you think your cat may have heatstroke, get the vet ASAP — the condition can cause permanent organ damage and death. Learn more about heatstroke in pets.
2. Offer your cat several ways to cool off. Leave a fan on in a place where your cat can sit in front of it, add some ice cubes to her water or offer her a cool treat (check out our recipe for catsicles.)
3. Let your cat find cool spots in the house. Your cat will seek out the cooler parts of your home, so make sure she has access to areas with tile floors or rooms that don’t get much sun.
4. Play in the morning or evening. Any exercise should take place during the cooler hours of the day. This is especially important for young kittens and seniors, both of whom are very vulnerable to heatstroke. (If your cat has just eaten, make sure you give her some time to digest before you begin playtime.)
5. Brush your cat often. A well-groomed, tangle-free coat will help keep your cat cool. (Learn more about grooming your cat.)

Article originally published by PetFinder.

What would you do if…

...your dog ate the bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips that was left out on the kitchen counter?

 ...your cat had a seizure right in front of you?

 ...your dog fell down the stairs and started limping?

 ...your cat was overheating on a hot summer day?

To avoid the feelings of panic that may accompany these situations, we recommend the following steps to better prepare you for a pet medical emergency. The following links summarize the basics you need for giving first aid care to your pet.

Always remember that any first aid administered to your pet should be followed by immediate veterinary care. First aid care is not a substitute for veterinary care, but it may save your pet's life until it receives veterinary treatment.

First aid supplies
Our handy checklist tells you all the supplies you should have on hand for pet first aid. Print out a copy to use for shopping, and keep a copy on your refrigerator or next to the first aid kit for your family, for quick reference in emergencies.
How to handle an injured pet
Knowing how to comfort an injured pet can help minimize your pet's anxiety and also protect you and your family from injury.
Basic pet first aid procedures
Read our simple instructions for providing emergency first aid if your pet is suffering from poisoning, seizures, broken bones, bleeding, burns, shock, heatstroke, choking or other urgent medical problems. Print out a copy to keep with your pet emergency kit.
First aid when traveling with your pet
A few simple steps can better prepare you to help your pet in first aid situations while you are traveling. Remember: pet medical emergencies don't just happen at home.
Pets and disasters
Whether confronted by natural disasters such as hurricanes, or unexpected catastrophes such as a house fire, you need to be prepared to take care of your animals. A pre-determined disaster plan will help you remain calm and think clearly.

Additional pet first aid links

• American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)/Healthy Pet: Pet First Aid
• The University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine: Basic First Aid for Your Pet
• American Red Cross: First Aid for Pets
• VeterinaryPartner.com: First Aid and Emergency Care

Adapted by an article posted by the AVMA.

Heartworm in Cats and Dogs: Don’t Let This Parasite Worm Its Way into Your Pet’s Heart or Lungs

A growing number of veterinarians are asking pet owners like you to protect their dogs and cats from heartworm disease instead of gambling that they won’t get it.

Pets get heartworm disease from mosquitoes that are infected with parasites. One bite can introduce parasites into your pet’s body. Once inside the body, the parasites nest and reproduce, lodging in your pet’s lungs and/or the right sides of his/her heart.

Heartworm has recently been diagnosed in about 30 species of animals in all 50 states, and affects millions of indoor and outdoor pets. To curb the rising number of cases, the American Heartworm Society (AHS) is asking pet owners to take a more proactive role in preventing the disease.

“We have all the tools to prevent it,” said Tom Nelson, DVM, owner of AAHA-accredited Animal Medical Center in Alabama and president of the AHS. “It’s really shameful that we have all of these positive cases.”
Part of the problem is lack of education.

New studies indicate that heartworm disease affects cats and dogs in all areas of the country, which is why veterinary experts suggest year-round prevention in all areas.

The American Heartworm Society and the Companion Animal Parasite Council recommend that all pets receive year-round heartworm protection so that pets are protected every month. It is critical that doses not be skipped or intervals between doses be extended because this results in an unprotected time during which animals may be exposed to heartworm larvae.

Pets should also have annual heartworm testing by a veterinarian prior to prescribing a heartworm medication.

Ask For More Information

Some veterinarians hesitate to offer prevention to their clients because they believe the disease is not a problem in their areas, but AHS statistics tell a different story.

A map of the United States, available on the AHS website, shows red splotches in areas where heartworm disease has been diagnosed. At quick glance, the varying shades of red make it look like the map is bleeding.

Because heartworm disease is no longer restricted to warm, humid areas, AHS experts suggest year-round preventative medication in all states and recently launched a campaign titled “KNOW More Heartworms” with the American Association of Feline Practitioners. This campaign targets cat owners.

One goal of the campaign is to dispel the myth that indoor cats are not at risk, said James Richards, DVM, a feline specialist who teaches at Cornell University in New York. One-half to one-third of the cats with heartworms do not go outdoors, he said.

Experts say that only 3.9 percent of cats in the United States are on heartworm prevention while about 50 percent of dogs are on preventative medication.

In Minnesota, where heartworm has been a significant problem for years, Pierce Fleming, DVM, recommends year-round prevention for dogs. And he recently started recommending it for all cats.

“Mosquitoes can get inside too,” said Fleming, owner of AAHA-accredited Plymouth Heights Hospital, who urges cat owners – with indoor and outdoor cats – to use heartworm prevention.

Know the Signs

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any drugs to treat heartworm disease in cats, which is why the AHS is focusing on prevention.

Clinical signs or symptoms in cats include vomiting, weight loss, diarrhea, coughing and difficulty breathing. Because cats tend to be couch potatoes, with limited opportunity for activity, it can be harder to identify breathing problems, which are often misdiagnosed as asthma. Pet owners may also mistakenly assume that low energy levels, a symptom of heartworms, are a sign of aging.

Three drugs have been approved by the FDA to help prevent heartworm disease in cats and dogs when given on a monthly basis. Several doctors also like the fact that preventive drugs also help protect pets from zoonotic diseases – like hookworm - that can be passed from pets to people.

Pamela Nichols, DVM, owner of AAHA-accredited Animal Care Center in Utah, says that heartworm prevention is simply good medicine. She advises clients to put their pets on preventive drugs because it protects them from heartworms and a slew of other parasites that can be transmitted from pets to people.
Some parasites – like roundworm – can cause blindness in children. Although it is very rare, it does happen, and it can be prevented.

“I have two clients that have vision in only one eye because of roundworm (parasite) infections,” Nichols said. “Anybody who wants evidence that this happens [can] look at these two families,” she added.

This article originally appeared in PetsMatter Volume 2 Issue 2, published by the American Animal Hospital Association. Copyright © 2009 AAHA.
Revised and updated Dec. 18, 2012.

Groom Your Cat

The team at Spencer Animal Hospital is committed to offering our patients' loving owners all the information you need to take great care of your pet. Today we wanted to share this interesting article about cat grooming. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns, and we'll be more than happy to help!

Groom Your Cat

Your feline will look (and feel!) like the cat’s meow after a good grooming session.
By nature, cats are extremely fastidious. You’ve no doubt watched your kitty washing herself several times a day. For the most part she can take care of herself very well, thank you, but sometimes she’ll need a little help from you.

Make Grooming as Enjoyable as Possible—For the Both of You!

Grooming sessions should be fun for the both of you, so be sure to schedule them when your cat’s relaxed, perhaps after exercise or eating. You want your pet to remember grooming sessions in a positive way, so you never want to risk losing your temper. If you’ve had a stressful day or are in a bad mood, it’s probably not a good time to groom your cat.
Keep your first grooming sessions short—just 5 to 10 minutes. Gradually lengthen the time until your pet is used to the routine. You should also get your pet used to being handled. Get in the habit of petting every single part of your cat—including ears, tail, belly and back—and especially the feet!
And keep in mind, a little patience can go a long way. If your cat is extremely stressed out, cut the session short and try again when she’s calmer. Unfortunately, most cats do not like baths, so you may need another person to help. And remember to pile on the praise and offer her a treat when the session is over.

Brushing

Regular sessions with a brush or comb will help keep your pet’s hair in good condition by removing dirt, spreading natural oils throughout her coat, preventing tangles and keeping her skin clean and irritant-free.
If your cat has short hair, you only need to brush once a week:
- First, use a metal comb and work through her fur from head to tail.
- Next, use a bristle or rubber brush to remove dead and loose hair.
- Be extra-gentle near her chest and belly.
If your cat has long hair, you will need to brush every day:
- Start by combing her belly and legs; be sure to untangle any knots.
- Next, brush her fur in an upward motion with a bristle or rubber brush.
- To brush her tail, make a part down the middle and brush the fur out on either side.

Bathing

If your cat’s coat becomes greasy and oily, or if she’s gotten into something sticky or smelly, she’ll benefit from a bath. Use a mild shampoo that’s safe to use on cats, and follow these easy steps:
- First, give your pet a good brushing to remove all dead hair and mats.
- Place a rubber bath mat in a sink or tub to provide secure footing.
- Put your cat in a tub or sink that has been filled with about 3 to 4 inches of lukewarm water.
- Use a spray hose to thoroughly wet your pet, taking care not to spray directly in her ears, eyes or nose. If you don’t have a spray hose, a large plastic pitcher or unbreakable cup will do.
- Gently massage in shampoo, working from head to tail.
- Thoroughly rinse with a spray hose or pitcher; again, avoid the ears, eyes and nose
- Dry your pet with a large towel.

Nail Clipping

Most people really don’t handle their cats’ feet until they are about to clip the nails and then…watch out! Some animals can get very upset at this totally foreign feeling. That’s why it’s a good idea to get your cat used to having her feet touched before you attempt a nail trim. Rub your hand up and down her leg and then gently press each individual toe—and be sure to give her lots of praise and some food treats as you do this. Every animal is different, but chances are that within a week or two of daily foot massage, your cat will accept nail clipping with too much fuss. Here’s how to do it:

- Begin by applying gentle pressure to the top of the foot and cushiony pad underneath—this will cause her to extend her claws.
- Use sharp, high-quality cat nail scissors to cut off the white tip of each nail, just before the point where it begins to curl.
- Take care to avoid the quick, a vein that runs into the nail. This pink area can be seen through the nail.
- If you do accidentally cut into this pink area, it may bleed, in which case you can apply some styptic powder to stop the bleeding.

Originally published by the ASPCA.

Pets a Go Go: Tips for Traveling with Fido and Fluffy

Although it's not summer yet, the team at Spencer Animal Hospital knows you're already planning your summer getaways. It's important to think about your pet in advance and determine whether they can come along for the ride, or whether they should be boarded safely at home. We recommend the following safety advice from AAHA's Healthy Pet, and would be glad to answer any questions you may have!
 

Travel season is here, and if you are like many pet owners, you will be packing a bag for your pet too.

Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding experience, but a successful trip depends on more than packing your pet’s favorite tennis ball or catnip toy.

To ensure the safety and happiness of your pet, start planning early, research transportation and lodging options, and make an appointment with your veterinarian.

Jet Setters

Most major airlines transport animals, but before booking a flight, consider all the factors, including your pet’s size and temperament and possible weather conditions.

Pets that are too large to fit in a pet carrier under your seat must fly as checked baggage in the plane’s cargo section.

Many animals become anxious in unfamiliar environments, particularly when separated from their owners, and can suffer both emotionally and physically during a flight.

Sedation is not considered a safe option.

"An animal’s natural ability to balance and maintain equilibrium is altered under sedation," says Patricia Olson, DVM, of the Morris Animal Foundation. "When the kennel is moved, a sedated animal may not be able to brace and prevent injury.”

Gary L. Rose, DVM, of AAHA-accredited Cabrillo Veterinary Hospital in San Diego, Calif., adds “When heavily sedated, some short-nosed breeds can have trouble breathing.”

Temperature extremes can also put your pet at risk. Many airlines do not transport pets during the hottest months of the year, or will not accept pets when the forecasted temperature is above a certain point.

Look for flights in the early morning or late evening, when temperatures are at their lowest.

On the Road

Of course there are also safety concerns when traveling by car. Pet crates are strongly recommended.
If an accident occurs, pet crates can protect animals from impact injuries and also prevent them from running out into traffic.

Marci Cook, DVM, of AAHA-accredited Shiloh Veterinary Hospital in Billings, Mont., says, “A crate offers a safe environment for your pet and helps them to feel comfortable.”

Rose recommends introducing your pet to the crate over several weeks. “Get them used to it by feeding them in it, and by taking short trips around the neighborhood to see how they do.”

For pets prone to motion sickness, Rose advises, “Make sure there’s adequate ventilation in the car.
Keep [it] cool and comfortable. If your pet still shows signs of motion sickness, medication is
available through your veterinarian.”

Lodging

Always research accommodations before leaving home, and make reservations whenever possible.
Many hotels and inns allow pets but may have size and weight limits, breed restrictions, or a limit on the number of pets allowed per room.

Campgrounds also have pet policies and occasionally prohibit pets altogether. State and national parks that allow pets often restrict them from certain areas, such as hiking trails and beaches.

Health Certificates

Most airlines require pets be examined by a veterinarian no more than 10 days prior to the date of travel. Be prepared to present health and rabies certificates at the time of departure.

If you are traveling by car, pack a copy of your pet’s prescriptions and vaccination records. Some states require proof of rabies vaccination.

Your veterinarian can also tell you if your pet needs additional vaccinations or preventive medications for the area in which you will be traveling.

Travel Tips and Car Safety

• Be sure your pet is wearing a flat collar with identification tags at all times.
• If your pet doesn’t have a microchip, consider having one implanted.
• Know basic pet first aid, and carry a first aid kit.
• Never allow your pet to travel with its head outside the car window.
• Do not allow pets to ride in the front seat. They are at risk of being thrown into the windshield, can interfere with your ability to drive, or could be injured by an airbag.
• Disable electric window controls. Dogs have have been know to get their heads stuck in windows after stepping on the buttons.
• Stop for “potty breaks” every two hours.
• Always leash your pet before opening the car door.

Originally published on Healthy Pet.