From the June 2019 Issue
Keep Those Pawprints Perfect
A cat uses her paws to scratch to relieve stress, express contentment, mark territory, avoid danger, and fight (if necessary). Amazingly, cat paws are extremely sensitive. They can feel heat, cold, and vibration. They even help keep cats cool (a paw can sweat). And yet, despite the many things cats do with their paws, the health of these unique extremities is often ignored.
Current Issue
The Debate Continues
A University of Guelph online survey of 3,673 pet owners found that 35 percent of the responders whose pets ate conventional diets were interested in switching to a vegan diet.
Vitamins and Minerals for Kitten Diarrhea
The Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery published a study (Strong, SJ, et al 2019), shared on journals.sagepub.com, that looked at treatment options for orphaned kittens with diarrhea.
Battling Family Allergies to Cats
While cat hair takes the blame for causing cat allergies, it is the proteins in cat saliva that stimulate most human allergic reactions.
AAFP on Vaccines
The American Association of Feline Practitioners makes recommendations on vaccine choices for cats that you can use in vaccination discussions with your veterinarian.
Fungus in Brazil
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reports that the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is monitoring a fungal infection (Sporothrix brasiliensis) in Brazil and nearby countries that is being spread by cats to people. The infections in cats are known as “clown nose” because of the swollen, infected nasal mucosa seen in affected cats. It’s usually fatal in cats.
Drowning in Dandruff
Visable dandruff is rarely normal. It may indicate a problem in our care or an underlying health problem.
When Heart Failure Occurs
Any cat can experience heart failure, something owners may be unaware of until it’s an emergency. The symptoms can remain “hidden” because cats are stoic and can often appear normal, even when they are very ill.