From the August 2019 Issue
Chirps and Chatters
Does your cat make noises that sound nothing like a traditional meow? She’s not the only one! While purrs, hisses, and, of course, the famous “meow” are the best-known cat sounds, cats have a wide repertoire of noises they use to communicate with other cats and us.
Current Issue
Grant Renewal
The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Petco Foundation, and Blue Buffalo renewed a grant that subsidizes the cost of cancer treatments for qualifying owners of dogs and cats.
Caution With Homemade Feline Diets
A study in the May 15, 2019, Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association looked at the nutritional adequacy of recipes provided by various sources for homemade diets for cats. The recipes evaluated were all for maintenance only, and no therapeutic diets were included.
Torn Cruciate Ligaments
The cranial cruciate ligament helps to stabilize the knee (stifle) in cats. Cats who tear their cruciate ligaments usually will be acutely lame. Upon veterinary examination, a “drawer sign” (abnormal laxity of the stifle) will be evident, suggesting instability of the joint.
Caring for Your Sphynx Cat
Sphynx cats know how to have fun and love interacting with their people. Some owners say they’re mischievous and noisier than the average cat. But they’re not really completely hairless.
When Hospice Is Needed
Everyone hopes the day will never come, but at some point, you may notice that your cat is approaching the end of her life. When this happens, your goal becomes to keep her comfortable and happy for as long as possible.
Compounded Drug Benefits
One day, you may find yourself heading for a pharmacy because your veterinarian prescribed a special drug that the pharmacist has to prepare. These medications are called “compounded drugs,” and they serve an important role in veterinary medicine.
Special Feline Nutritional Needs
Who would have guessed feline nutrition could be tricky? Many major nutrients must be consumed by your cat for him to stay healthy. While your cat food likely includes the proper levels of these nutrients, it’s important for you, as the cat owner, to understand what they are and why they are important.