Sunday, September 19, 2010

what to do about behavioral problems in cats: Bad Kitty Noel; the cat from hell

Perhaps calling him the cat from hell is a bit of a disservice, part of me still misses the guy. Noel came to stay with me for 8 days and I can tell you now they are 8 days I will never forget as long as I live. what will follow in a series of posts is a case study of noel's behavioral problems, how they were caused, and how they need to be dealt with.

Monday, April 19, 2010

why do cats cry in the night? what can you do to help them quiet down and go to sleep

First of all, I am assuming that your cat is neutered, as cats can be very vocal indeed when they are in season. If your cat has not been neutered, then the first thing to do is to make an appointment with your cat's vet to discuss arranging for your cat to be neutered.

However, cats are much more vocal than dogs, and much of their vocal sounds are those that bring individuals closer together, as they are a social species.

These meows are usually greeting calls spoken in friendly interactions with cats or other species such as dogs and people. In addition, some overattached cats will follow their owners, perhaps crying regularly to attract their attention.

I would suggest that first of all you take your cat for a check up to the vet's as there are other things that can cause the symptoms your describe, such as some pain. In addition, it might be worthwhile chatting with the vet about whether seeing a pet behaviourist would help your cat.

You can also think about whether your cat gets enough attention, or if there is not enough activity or mental stimulation.

If this is relevant, think about organising regular schedules play times with your cat, where you initiate play, petting, grooming or food treats, such as small pieces of cheese, cooked chicken or shrimp, when your cat is quiet or behaving in the way that pleases you. Make sure your vet OK's these food additions and reward desirable behaviours and ignore those that are undesirable.

Remember that this ignoring behaviour means that you don't have eye, touch or voice contact with your cat. The condition may also get worse before it gets better, and you need to be consistent. In these situations, the main reason for failure is often the owner!


cats.com
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cathealth.com

Saturday, January 23, 2010

cats crying in the night -- case study

Case Study: "Our 17 year old cat has begun howling loudly mostly at night, usually at the same times every night…around 3 and then 5 in the morning. She seems disoriented and quiets down if we put in bed with us. She also seems to be pretty deaf now, so we thought some of the loud howling may be due to her not being able to hear herself, along with being disoriented and not being able to find us. She’s a real sweetheart and I’m cherishing our last days together."

Thursday, January 21, 2010

why do cats cry at night -- party due to old age and other condtions

My cat tabi does this lil crying in the night and day when no one is around. Shes Not old but had done it since we got her at 10 months of age. Now 6 she still does it. It just goes on and on and on until you have to go get her. You can even close your door at night or she’ll start with the high pictched meowing….lol But when she see’s you she’s goes “Mrrrp”

why does my cat cry at night -- party due to old age and other condtions

I had a cat that yowled quite a bit during her final years of life. She was almost 20 when she passed away. She was diagnosed with an overactive thyroid and had been put on medication for that condition. The yowling and crying took place primarily at night. I’d usually find her looking confused so I always thought that she was “lost”. I’d point her in the direction I thought she might have been heading (litterbox or food dish as examples) & most times she’d follow through & then I’d take her off to bed with me.

cat first aid and what you need to know to be prepared

When your pet has an emergency, being prepared is very important.
Before an emergency strikes, be sure you know how your veterinarian
handles emergencies or where you should go if you have one. For
example, some veterinarians always have someone on call, while others
use special emergency hospitals for things that arise after hours.
AAHA-accredited hospitals are required to provide 24-hour-a-day
emergency care in one way or another. You can also stay prepared for
emergencies by putting together a pet first-aid kit.

We cannot stress enough that you SHOULD NOT get on-line during a pet
emergency or when your pet is seriously ill. In an emergency, first
aid is not a substitute for veterinary treatment. However, before you
are able to get your pet to a veterinarian, knowing some basic first
aid can help. Always seek veterinary care following first-aid
attempts.

Bite Wounds
Approach the pet carefully to avoid getting bitten. Muzzle the animal.
Check the wound for contamination or debris. If significant debris is
present, then clean the wound with large amounts of saline or balanced
electrolyte solution. If these are not available, then regular water
may be used. Wrap large open wounds to keep them clean. Apply pressure
to profusely bleeding wounds. Do not use a tourniquet. Wear gloves
when possible.

Bite wounds often become infected and need professional care. Call
your veterinarian.

Bleeding
Apply firm, direct pressure over the bleeding area until the bleeding
stops. Hold the pressure for at least 10 straight minutes (continually
releasing the pressure to check the wound will hamper the clotting).
Avoid bandages that cut off circulation.

Call your veterinarian immediately.

Breathing Stops
Check to see if the animal is choking on a foreign object. If an
animal is not breathing, place it on a firm surface with its left side
up. Check for a heartbeat by listening at the area where the elbow
touches the chest. If you hear a heartbeat but not breathing, close
the animal's mouth and breathe directly into its nose--not the
mouth--until the chest expands. Repeat 12 to 15 times per minute. If
there is no pulse, apply heart massage at the same time. The heart is
located in the lower half of the chest, behind the elbow of the front
left leg. Place one hand below the heart to support the chest. Place
other hand over the heart and compress gently. To massage the hearts
of cats and other tiny pets, compress the chest with the thumb and
forefingers of one hand. Apply heart massage 80-120 times per minute
for larger animals and 100-150 per minute for smaller ones. Alternate
heart massage with breathing.

Please note: Even in the hands of well-trained veterinary health
professionals, the success of resuscitation is very low overall.
Success may be slightly higher in the cases of drowning or electrical
shock.

Call your veterinarian immediately.

Burns
(Chemical, electrical, or heat including from a heating pad) Symptoms:
singed hair, blistering, swelling, redness of skin. Flush the burn
immediately with large amounts of cool, running water. Apply an ice
pack for 15-20 minutes. Do not place an ice pack directly on the skin.
Wrap the pack in a light towel or other cover. If the animal has large
quantities of dry chemicals on its skin, brush them off. Water may
activate some dry chemicals.

Call your veterinarian immediately.

Choking
Symptoms include difficulty breathing, excessive pawing at the mouth,
blue lips and tongue. Be sure to protect yourself as well as the
animal, as the pet will likely be frantic and may be more likely to
bite. If the pet can still partially breathe, it's best to keep the
animal calm and get to a veterinarian as quickly as possible. Look
into the mouth to see if foreign object in throat is visible. If you
can, clear the airway by removing the object with pliers or tweezers,
being careful not to push it farther down the throat. If it is lodged
too deep or if the pet collapses, then place your hands on both sides
of the animal's rib cage and apply firm, quick pressure. Or place the
animal on its side and strike the side of the rib cage firmly with the
palm of your hand three or four times. Repeat this procedure until the
object is dislodged or you arrive at the veterinarian's office.

Call your veterinarian immediately.

Diarrhea
Withhold food for 12-24 hours, but not water. Sometimes pets that
appear to be straining are sore from diarrhea rather than from
constipation. Your veterinarian can help you decide which it is and
what will help. Trying at-home treatments without knowing the real
cause can just make things worse.

Call your veterinarian.

Fractures
Symptoms include pain, inability to use a limb, or limb at odd angle.
Muzzle the pet and look for bleeding. If you can control bleeding
without causing more injury, then do so. Watch for signs of shock. DO
NOT TRY TO SET THE FRACTURE by pulling or tugging on the limb.
Transport the pet to the veterinarian immediately, supporting the
injured part as best you can.

Heatstroke
Symptoms include rapid or labored breathing, vomiting, high body
temperature, collapse. Place the animal in a tub of cool water. Or,
gently soak the animal with a garden hose or wrap it in a cool, wet
towel. Do not overcool the animal. Stop cooling when rectal
temperature reaches 103 degrees Fahrenheit.

Call veterinarian immediately.

Poisoning
Symptoms include vomiting, convulsions, diarrhea, salivation,
weakness, depression, pain. Record what the pet ingested and how much.
Immediately call your veterinarian or poison control center. Do not
induce vomiting. In case of toxins or chemicals on the skin from oils,
paints, insecticides and other contact irritants, request directions
on if and how to wash the toxin off.

Seizures
Symptoms include salivation, loss of control of urine or stool,
violent muscle twitching, loss of consciousness. Move the pet away
from any objects that could be harmful during the seizure. Use a
blanket for padding and protection. Do not put yourself at risk by
restraining the pet during the seizure. Time the seizure. They usually
last only 2 to 3 minutes. Afterwards, keep the animal calm and quiet.

Call your veterinarian immediately.

Shock
Symptoms include irregular breathing, dilated pupils. Shock may occur
as a result of a serious injury or fright. Keep the animal gently
restrained, quiet, and warm, with the lower body elevated.

Call your veterinarian immediately.

Vomiting
Withhold food for 12-24 hours. Give the pet ice cubes for two hours
after vomiting stops, then slowly increase the amount of water and
foods given over a 24-hour period.

Call your veterinarian.

If you need to muzzle your pet use a strip of soft cloth, rope,
necktie, or nylon stocking. Wrap around the nose, under the chin and
tie behind the ears. Care must be taken when handling weak or injured
pets. Even normally docile pets will bite when in pain. Allow the pet
to pant after handling by loosening or removing the muzzle. Do not use
a muzzle in a case of vomiting. Cats and small pets may be difficult
to muzzle. A towel placed around the head will help control small
pets.

If your pet can't walk A door, board, blanket, or floor mat can be
used as a stretcher to transport injured or weak animals.

If your pet's emergency is not covered here, please call your
veterinarian immediately. If you are away from home, you can find a
veterinarian near you by using the AAHA-accredited hospital directory.

Click here for instructive videos by the Cornell Feline Health Center
on giving your cat a pill, capsule or liquid medication.

cats and cars -- what you need to know as a responsible cat caretaker

Your Car is an Oven!
Heatstroke
You've heard of it, you knew it affected people, and you were even
vaguely aware that it could affect your cat. But how does it happen?
And most important, how can you help your pet avoid it? Heatstroke is
a deadly disease that can kill your beloved companion, even with
emergency treatment. The best way to avoid this terrible situation is
prevention, and it's all up to you.

Sun + humidity = heatstroke (and other factors that kill)
Everyone knows that the inside of a car on a hot summer's day can be
lethal. But good cats needs you to know more than that to keep him
safe in the deadly sun. Days above 90 degrees, especially with high
humidity, are inherently dangerous for your pet. Humidity interferes
with animals' ability to rid themselves of excess body heat. When we
overheat we sweat, and when the sweat dries it takes excess heat with
it. Our four-legged friends only perspire around their paws, which is
not enough to cool the body. To rid themselves of excess heat, animals
pant. Air moves through the nasal passages, which picks up excess heat
from the body. As it is expelled through the mouth, the extra heat
leaves along with it. Although this is a very efficient way to control
body heat, it is severely limited in areas of high humidity or when
the animal is in close quarters.

The shape of an animal's nasal passages can contribute to an animal's
tendency to overheat. Brachiocephalic (pug-nosed) dogs are more prone
to heatstroke because their nasal passages are smaller and it's more
difficult for them to circulate sufficient air for cooling. Overweight
dogs are also more prone to overheating because their extra layers of
fat act as insulation, which traps heat in their bodies and restricts
their breathing capabilities. Age can also be a factor in an animal's
tendency to overheat--very young animals may not have a fully
developed temperature regulating system, and older pets' organ systems
may not be functioning at 100 percent, leaving them prone to
heat-related damage.

Cracking the windows doesn't cut it
So where are the danger zones? The most obvious is your car: It can
become a death trap even on a mild sunny day--and can insidiously
raise the car's temperature to well above 120 degrees! Never, ever
leave your pet inside the car. If your pet can't come with you when
you get out of the car, leave him at home.

What are some other dangerous situations for your pets? Leaving
animals outdoors without shelter is just as dangerous as leaving them
inside a hot car. Be sure they are not left in a cage in the hot sun,
on a chain in the backyard, or outdoors in a run without sufficient
shade or air circulation.

Their lives are in your hands
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect your pet has
heatstroke (see "Signs of Heatstroke," below), you must act quickly
and calmly. Have someone call a veterinarian immediately. In the
meantime, lower the animal's body temperature by applying towels
soaked in cool water to the hairless areas of the body. Often the pet
will respond after only a few minutes of cooling, only to falter again
with his temperature soaring back up or falling to well below what is
normal. With this in mind, remember that it is imperative to get the
animal to a veterinarian immediately. Once your pet is in the
veterinarian's care, treatment may include further cooling techniques,
intravenous fluid therapy to counter shock, or medication to prevent
or reverse brain damage.

Even with emergency treatment, heatstroke can be fatal. The best cure
is prevention, and your pets are relying on you to keep them out of
harm's way. Summer does not have to be fraught with peril--with ample
precaution, both you and your furry friends can enjoy those long, hot,
dog-days of summer.

Signs of Heatstroke
Panting
Staring
Anxious expression
Refusal to obey commands
Warm, dry skin
High fever
Rapid heartbeat
Vomiting
Collapse
Precautions to take if your pet lives outdoors
Ensure adequate shelter from sun/midday heat
Outdoor kennels should be well-ventilated and in the shade
Provide plenty of fresh water in a bowl that cannot be tipped over
Avoid excessive exercise on hot days
Talk with your local veterinarian to determine if your long-haired pet
needs a summer haircut

what you need to know about selecting a caretaker for your cat

Human/Animal Bond: Leaving your Pet a Future
Precautions you can take to ensure your pets are cared for if you are
involved in a sudden accident or illness.

Finding Caretakers
One of the most important things you can do for your pet is seeking
out good people to take care of them if you cannot. This may take some
thought, as you want to choose people who are responsible, enjoy
animals, and have the time and resources to care for them. Your best
friend may love cats, for example, but if she already has twelve of
them, she may not be able to provide the most comfortable home for
your shy feline. If you have more than one pet, decide whether all the
pets should go to one person, or if they should be divided among two
or more people. Talk to the friends and family you choose: discuss the
care your pets require and the environment you would like them to
have. Tell them how often you would like your animals to be exercised,
how often they need to go to the veterinarian, and how much day-to-day
attention they require. People may surprise you by being much more or
much less willing to care for your animals than you expect.

You should select both emergency and long-term caregivers for your
animals. Emergency caregivers will make sure your animals are safe,
healthy, and comfortable for a few hours or days after an emergency,
until a long-term care provider can come to get them. They should live
nearby and have access to transportation to pick up your pets if
necessary. Neighbors are often a good choice to care for your pets in
an emergency. Long-term caregivers should have room to care for your
pets for an extended period and be capable of making decisions about
their health and future. You should have more than one of each type of
caregiver, in case someone is unavailable. Both types of caregivers
should have keys to your home, feeding and care instructions, the name
of your veterinarian, lists of any health problems your pets may have,
information about your pets' diets and medication, the contact
information for the other caregivers, and information about who you
have chosen to care for your pets permanently.

Be ready for the unexpected
Once you have chosen caregivers, make sure that they can be located
and contacted in the event of an emergency. It's important to remember
that animals need constant care. Should something happen to you, your
pets need to be attended to quickly. You do not want them to wait for
days until a friend or family member remembers they are home alone.
There are precautions you can take to ensure your pets are cared for
if you are involved in a sudden accident or illness:

Carry a card in your wallet listing what pets you have, where they
are, and the names and phone numbers of their emergency caregivers.
Inform your friends and family members of what they should do for your
pets in case of an emergency. Give them the contact information of
your emergency caregivers.
Tape signs or post stickers in your windows at home informing
emergency-response personnel of what pets you have inside. This can
save your pets' lives in case of a fire or natural disaster. It will
also warn entering paramedics to watch out for animals and not to
leave doors open.
Post information in a visible place inside your house informing people
how to care for your pets in an emergency. Include your emergency
contacts' names and phone numbers, the name and phone number of your
veterinarian, and any important health problems your pets might have.
These informal arrangements are an important way to make sure your
pets are safe, should you temporarily be unable to care for them. In
the case that your pets need permanent care, however, verbal
agreements will not guarantee that your wishes are followed. You may
want to consider taking legal steps to ensure your pets' care in the
event of your death or incapacitation.

Including your pets in your will
A will is one durable and relatively secure way to make sure your pet
is cared for in the event of your death. Your will can both specify a
guardian for your animals and earmark a certain amount of your estate
to provide for their feeding and medical care. It is not a good idea
to make an extremely specific will, detailing exactly what should be
done for your pets on a day-to-day basis. Circumstances can change,
and these precise instructions could actually limit the caretakers'
abilities to care for your animals in some instances. For example,
someone who would make an excellent guardian today could become ill
and might not be able to care for your pets five years from now. Also,
an animal who is very healthy now could require a larger amount of
money for veterinary care in the coming years. You should provide the
executor of your will with some discretion as to who takes custody of
your pets and how estate funds are spent. You should therefore choose
an executor whom you know and trust. Family members can make excellent
executors, as they know your pets and know how important they are to
you, though lawyers and other paid representatives can do just as well
if informed of your wishes.

Regardless of whom you choose as your executor, talk with him about
how you envision the rest of your pets' lives. If your animals are
ill, at what point should he consider euthanasia? Do you expect him to
check on your pets at regular intervals? Is there a limit on the
procedures you would like performed on an ill pet? If you have these
issues decided ahead of time, you are more likely to have your pets
cared for in the way you prefer.

mixed breed cats and some of the health problems they face -- what you need to know

Mixed Breed Cats
Non-purebred cats are usually referred to as mixed breeds, but these
cats are not "mutts" or mixes of different breeds. All of the
characteristics found in purebreds are actually derived from mixed
breed cats, which are actually the most authentic or "pure" breed.

Historians now believe that all domesticated cats, which first
appeared in ancient Egypt, once had tabby coats. And since all cats
carry these ancestral tabby genes, all domestic cats are still
genetically tabbies. The cat breeds that don't look like tabbies
simply carry other types of genes that prevent the tabby coat pattern
from appearing. This helps to explain the enormous variety of colors
and patterns found in cats today.

Breed-related concerns
Every cat breed carries a distinct set of genetic advantages and
health risk factors. The most common diseases found in mixed breeds,
as well as problems that can affect all breeds, both mixed and pure,
are listed below. Hopefully, your cat will not face these problems.
However, early detection and preventive healthcare can make all the
difference in helping your cat live a longer, happier life.

Kitten (birth to 1 year)
Behavior problems
Diarrhea
External parasites
Eye infections
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)
Upper respiratory tract infections
Adult (1 to 6 years)
Cat fight abscess
Dental disease
Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD)
Inflammatory bowel disease
Liver disease
Obesity
Senior (7 years and older)
Arthritis
Cancer
Cardiomyopathy
Diabetes mellitus
Hyperthyroidism
Kidney disease

top 4 behavioral problems of cats and what you can do to address them in a caring fashion

Cat Behavior Problems
Common behavior problems in cats include house soiling (eliminating
outside the litter box), destroying furniture with their claws, or
acting aggressively toward family, people or pets. There are some
steps that can be taken with any normal cat that is misbehaving. No
cat benefits from physical punishment and all cats benefit from
additional interaction with the owner in the form of regular grooming
and play sessions that involve aerobic activity such as chasing and
jumping after toys.

House soiling
Urination or defecation outside of the litter box. May be due to an
insufficient number of litter boxes, territorial reasons, insufficient
frequency of cleaning of the litter box(es), dislike of the location
of the litter box(es), personal preference for a particular
elimination location (example, the bed) or surface (example, carpet),
medical illness or psychological stress, exercise frustration,
physical discomfort or personality conflicts with other members of the
household.

Destructive behavior
Includes clawing and chewing behavior. Some clawing is simple claw
maintenance to remove the older claw shell as the new claw grows
underneath. Cats also claw to mark territory both with the scent of
their pads and the sight of clawing. Cats may also chew objects. Cats
are more likely to choose a plant than a couch or table to chew,
although some cats do chew fabric. See library article Pica.

Their sense of investigation is another cause of inadvertent damage.
The curious cat often knocks valuables off shelves, causing
destruction.

Aggression
Acting aggressively toward family, people or pets. For aggressive
cats, first rule out any medical causes of chronic minor discomfort by
asking your veterinarian to do a physical exam and diagnostic
testingto rule out underlying illness. Avoid any form of physical
punishment and initiate regular, gentle massage when the cat is
relaxed. Finally, don't allow free choice of food. Instead, hand feed
the first few kibbles of each meal while giving a mild body massage
with the other hand to establish positive leadership, build the bond
and re-establish a loving relationship.

Diagnosis of a behavior problem is based on a thorough behavioral
history along with a physical examination and sometimes blood and
urine tests to make certain that the pet is otherwise healthy. Please
see your veterinarian if you believe that your cat has a behavior
problem.

cat eating your sweaters? what to do when you cat likes to eat wool

Pica: When your pet eats things that aren't food

Does your cat nibble your wool sweaters down to fuzzy nubs? If he
does, you're not alone. Enough animals eat nonfood materials that the
behavior has been given a name—pica. While pica generally isn't
dangerous, it can cause intestinal obstructions if your cat eats too
much. It also can mean the destruction of blankets, clothing,
furniture, and more if it's not controlled.

Pica is defined as an abnormal compulsion to eat things that aren't
usually eaten. It occurs rarely in humans, usually kids who eat the
occasional handful of dirt. It's also a relatively rare phenomenon in
dogs. Some cats, however—particularly Oriental breeds like Siamese and
Burmese—will repeatedly chow on everything from phone cords to shower
curtains, though their most common snack is wool and other fabrics.

Why?

There are several theories on why cats like to chew on wool and other
materials. Some behaviorists and veterinarians believe that it starts
when kittens are weaned too early or too abruptly. The kittens then
suck on fabric to soothe themselves; the sucking gradually turns into
chewing. Other veterinary specialists think that dietary deficiencies,
such as a lack of fat or insoluble fiber, drive cats to seek the
missing nutrients in strange foods. Eating inappropriate things may
also be a result of stress, anxiety, or boredom. Neurological
disorders and illnesses such as pancreatitis can also cause this
behavior. Pica may even be caused by a combination of two or more of
these factors.

How to save your sweaters

Though you may never know exactly why your cat snacks on your favorite
blazer, there are ways you can discourage him.

Deter him. You can make chewed objects unattractive by spraying them
with vinegar, hot-pepper sauce, or bitter apple, a bitter-tasting
liquid you can buy at most pet stores. You can dab a certain brand of
cologne or air freshener on everything you spray; soon your cat will
associate the smell of the cologne with the bad taste and will avoid
chewing any object you've put cologne on. The bad news is that
deterring your cat from chewing one kind of material—your wool
sweaters for example—may simply drive him to find a new favorite
food—such as your leather shoes or your cotton sheets. You may also
need to try one of the ideas below to help end the behavior itself.
Keep your cat occupied. A bored cat is much more likely to start
gnawing than a busy one. Make sure he has plenty to play with, both
when you're home and when you're not. Try leaving him a toy on a
string that hangs from a doorknob, or a ball that dispenses treats or
food when it's played with. Cat trees—tall, carpeted structures with
lots of shelves and arms for your cat to climb—are another good
option. Also, give your cat a long play session (20 minutes or more)
in the evening and another in the morning, if possible. If he's tired
he's less likely to chew.
Help him relax. Stressed-out kitties will engage in strange behaviors
just to calm themselves. If a recent move or a new member or the
household—human or nonhuman—has stirred things up at home, try to keep
things as quiet and familiar as possible. Make sure your cat has
plenty of his favorite toys and blankets around and that he has a
small, comfortable refuge to retreat to when he gets nervous. His cat
carrier, placed in a corner in a closet, may work well.
Supplement his diet. Some cat owners have been able to stop wool
chewing by adding lanolin—an oil found in wool—to their cat's food.
Others have had success mixing a little fiber into the food. Consult
your veterinarian before you change your pet's food, however, as some
dietary changes can cause an upset stomach or other health problems.
Give him healthy things to chew. Try giving your cat smaller, more
frequent feedings, so he'll have something in his bowl when he wants
something to nibble. You might want to try a timed food dispenser,
which you could set to release a small amount of food every few hours.
You can also grow a cat garden so he'll have grass to chew. You can
buy preplanted gardens at some pet stores, or you can grow one
yourself by planting a pot of rye or wheat, with a little catnip mixed
in.

You may need more than one of these techniques-or all of them-to slow
down or eliminate pica, but it can be done. If you need help, your
veterinarian or a behaviorist can design a program to retrain your
fuzzy buddy. Most important is that you be patient, and keep your
sweaters out of reach!

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Why do male cats cry in the night?

First of all, I am assuming that your cat is neutered, as cats can be very vocal indeed when they are in season. If your cat has not been neutered, then the first thing to do is to make an appointment with your cat's vet to discuss arranging for your cat to be neutered.

However, cats are much more vocal than dogs, and much of their vocal sounds are those that bring individuals closer together, as they are a social species.

These meows are usually greeting calls spoken in friendly interactions with cats or other species such as dogs and people. In addition, some overattached cats will follow their owners, perhaps crying regularly to attract their attention.

I would suggest that first of all you take your cat for a check up to the vet's as there are other things that can cause the symptoms your describe, such as some pain. In addition, it might be worthwhile chatting with the vet about whether seeing a pet behaviourist would help your cat.

You can also think about whether your cat gets enough attention, or if there is not enough activity or mental stimulation.

If this is relevant, think about organising regular schedules play times with your cat, where you initiate play, petting, grooming or food treats, such as small pieces of cheese, cooked chicken or shrimp, when your cat is quiet or behaving in the way that pleases you. Make sure your vet OK's these food additions and reward desirable behaviours and ignore those that are undesirable.

Remember that this ignoring behaviour means that you don't have eye, touch or voice contact with your cat. The condition may also get worse before it gets better, and you need to be consistent. In these situations, the main reason for failure is often the owner!

Alley Cat Crying in the night, Why?

First of all, I am assuming that your cat is neutered, as cats can be very vocal indeed when they are in season. If your cat has not been neutered, then the first thing to do is to make an appointment with your cat's vet to discuss arranging for your cat to be neutered.

However, cats are much more vocal than dogs, and much of their vocal sounds are those that bring individuals closer together, as they are a social species.

These meows are usually greeting calls spoken in friendly interactions with cats or other species such as dogs and people. In addition, some overattached cats will follow their owners, perhaps crying regularly to attract their attention.

I would suggest that first of all you take your cat for a check up to the vet's as there are other things that can cause the symptoms your describe, such as some pain. In addition, it might be worthwhile chatting with the vet about whether seeing a pet behaviourist would help your cat.

You can also think about whether your cat gets enough attention, or if there is not enough activity or mental stimulation.

If this is relevant, think about organising regular schedules play times with your cat, where you initiate play, petting, grooming or food treats, such as small pieces of cheese, cooked chicken or shrimp, when your cat is quiet or behaving in the way that pleases you. Make sure your vet OK's these food additions and reward desirable behaviours and ignore those that are undesirable.

Remember that this ignoring behaviour means that you don't have eye, touch or voice contact with your cat. The condition may also get worse before it gets better, and you need to be consistent. In these situations, the main reason for failure is often the owner!

Why does my male cat cry at night -- YOWLING and what you can do about it

First of all, I am assuming that your cat is neutered, as cats can be very vocal indeed when they are in season. If your cat has not been neutered, then the first thing to do is to make an appointment with your cat's vet to discuss arranging for your cat to be neutered.

However, cats are much more vocal than dogs, and much of their vocal sounds are those that bring individuals closer together, as they are a social species.

These meows are usually greeting calls spoken in friendly interactions with cats or other species such as dogs and people. In addition, some overattached cats will follow their owners, perhaps crying regularly to attract their attention.

I would suggest that first of all you take your cat for a check up to the vet's as there are other things that can cause the symptoms your describe, such as some pain. In addition, it might be worthwhile chatting with the vet about whether seeing a pet behaviourist would help your cat.

You can also think about whether your cat gets enough attention, or if there is not enough activity or mental stimulation.

If this is relevant, think about organising regular schedules play times with your cat, where you initiate play, petting, grooming or food treats, such as small pieces of cheese, cooked chicken or shrimp, when your cat is quiet or behaving in the way that pleases you. Make sure your vet OK's these food additions and reward desirable behaviours and ignore those that are undesirable.

Remember that this ignoring behaviour means that you don't have eye, touch or voice contact with your cat. The condition may also get worse before it gets better, and you need to be consistent. In these situations, the main reason for failure is often the owner!

Sunday, January 17, 2010

Your older cat and how their thinking changes -- what you need to know

This information deals with the Cognitive dysfunction and the neurobiology of ageing in cats. and is based in part by a medical article by D. Gunn-Moore, K. Moffat, LA Christie, E Head which was inturn based on their research conducted at the Easter Bush Veterinary Centre and Hospital for Small Animals at the University of Edinburgh at Rolin.


With improvements in nutrition and veterinary medicine the life expectancy of pet cats is increasing. Accompanying this growing geriatric population there are increasing numbers of cats with signs of apparent senility. A recent study suggests that 28 per cent of pet cats aged 11 to 14 years develop at least one geriatric onset behavioural problem, and this increases to over 50 per cent for cats of 15 years of age or older. While behavioural changes may result from systemic illness, organic brain disease or true behavioural problems, the possibility of age-related cognitive dysfunction is often overlooked. Studies have revealed a number of changes in the brains of geriatric cats that showed signs of cognitive dysfunction, and potential causes include vascular insufficiency leading to hypoxia, increased free radical damage and the deposition of beta-amyloid plaques and/or the modification of other proteins. By recognising the importance of behavioural changes in old cats, investigating them fully for potentially treatable medical conditions, and instigating dietary and environmental modifications to meet their changing needs, we can make the lives of our geriatric cats much more comfortable and rewarding.

mixex breed cats and you -- what you need to know as caretaker

 

Mixed Breed Cats

Non-purebred cats are usually referred to as mixed breeds, but these cats are not "mutts" or mixes of different breeds. All of the characteristics found in purebreds are actually derived from mixed breed cats, which are actually the most authentic or "pure" breed.

Historians now believe that all domesticated cats, which first appeared in ancient Egypt, once had tabby coats. And since all cats carry these ancestral tabby genes, all domestic cats are still genetically tabbies. The cat breeds that don't look like tabbies simply carry other types of genes that prevent the tabby coat pattern from appearing. This helps to explain the enormous variety of colors and patterns found in cats today.

Breed-related concerns

Every cat breed carries a distinct set of genetic advantages and health risk factors. The most common diseases found in mixed breeds, as well as problems that can affect all breeds, both mixed and pure, are listed below. Hopefully, your cat will not face these problems. However, early detection and preventive healthcare can make all the difference in helping your cat live a longer, happier life.

Behavioral Problems and Cats -- what you need to know as caretaker

 

Cat Behavior Problems

Common behavior problems in cats include house soiling (eliminating outside the litter box), destroying furniture with their claws, or acting aggressively toward family, people or pets. There are some steps that can be taken with any normal cat that is misbehaving. No cat benefits from physical punishment and all cats benefit from additional interaction with the owner in the form of regular grooming and play sessions that involve aerobic activity such as chasing and jumping after toys.

House soiling

Urination or defecation outside of the litter box. May be due to an insufficient number of litter boxes, territorial reasons, insufficient frequency of cleaning of the litter box(es), dislike of the location of the litter box(es), personal preference for a particular elimination location (example, the bed) or surface (example, carpet), medical illness or psychological stress, exercise frustration, physical discomfort or personality conflicts with other members of the household.

Destructive behavior

Includes clawing and chewing behavior. Some clawing is simple claw maintenance to remove the older claw shell as the new claw grows underneath. Cats also claw to mark territory both with the scent of their pads and the sight of clawing. Cats may also chew objects. Cats are more likely to choose a plant than a couch or table to chew, although some cats do chew fabric. See library article Pica.

Their sense of investigation is another cause of inadvertent damage. The curious cat often knocks valuables off shelves, causing destruction.

Aggression

Acting aggressively toward family, people or pets. For aggressive cats, first rule out any medical causes of chronic minor discomfort by asking your veterinarian to do a physical exam and diagnostic testingto rule out underlying illness. Avoid any form of physical punishment and initiate regular, gentle massage when the cat is relaxed. Finally, don't allow free choice of food. Instead, hand feed the first few kibbles of each meal while giving a mild body massage with the other hand to establish positive leadership, build the bond and re-establish a loving relationship.

Diagnosis of a behavior problem is based on a thorough behavioral history along with a physical examination and sometimes blood and urine tests to make certain that the pet is otherwise healthy. Please see your veterinarian if you believe that your cat has a behavior problem.


why do cats eat things besides food? what you need to know

Pica: When your pet eats things that aren't food

Does your cat nibble your wool sweaters down to fuzzy nubs? If he does, you're not alone. Enough animals eat nonfood materials that the behavior has been given a name—pica. While pica generally isn't dangerous, it can cause intestinal obstructions if your cat eats too much. It also can mean the destruction of blankets, clothing, furniture, and more if it's not controlled.

Pica is defined as an abnormal compulsion to eat things that aren't usually eaten. It occurs rarely in humans, usually kids who eat the occasional handful of dirt. It's also a relatively rare phenomenon in dogs. Some cats, however—particularly Oriental breeds like Siamese and Burmese—will repeatedly chow on everything from phone cords to shower curtains, though their most common snack is wool and other fabrics.

Why?

There are several theories on why cats like to chew on wool and other materials. Some behaviorists and veterinarians believe that it starts when kittens are weaned too early or too abruptly. The kittens then suck on fabric to soothe themselves; the sucking gradually turns into chewing. Other veterinary specialists think that dietary deficiencies, such as a lack of fat or insoluble fiber, drive cats to seek the missing nutrients in strange foods. Eating inappropriate things may also be a result of stress, anxiety, or boredom. Neurological disorders and illnesses such as pancreatitis can also cause this behavior. Pica may even be caused by a combination of two or more of these factors.

How to save your sweaters

Though you may never know exactly why your cat snacks on your favorite blazer, there are ways you can discourage him.

  • Deter him. You can make chewed objects unattractive by spraying them with vinegar, hot-pepper sauce, or bitter apple, a bitter-tasting liquid you can buy at most pet stores. You can dab a certain brand of cologne or air freshener on everything you spray; soon your cat will associate the smell of the cologne with the bad taste and will avoid chewing any object you've put cologne on. The bad news is that deterring your cat from chewing one kind of material—your wool sweaters for example—may simply drive him to find a new favorite food—such as your leather shoes or your cotton sheets. You may also need to try one of the ideas below to help end the behavior itself.
  • Keep your cat occupied. A bored cat is much more likely to start gnawing than a busy one. Make sure he has plenty to play with, both when you're home and when you're not. Try leaving him a toy on a string that hangs from a doorknob, or a ball that dispenses treats or food when it's played with. Cat trees—tall, carpeted structures with lots of shelves and arms for your cat to climb—are another good option. Also, give your cat a long play session (20 minutes or more) in the evening and another in the morning, if possible. If he's tired he's less likely to chew.
  • Help him relax. Stressed-out kitties will engage in strange behaviors just to calm themselves. If a recent move or a new member or the household—human or nonhuman—has stirred things up at home, try to keep things as quiet and familiar as possible. Make sure your cat has plenty of his favorite toys and blankets around and that he has a small, comfortable refuge to retreat to when he gets nervous. His cat carrier, placed in a corner in a closet, may work well.
  • Supplement his diet. Some cat owners have been able to stop wool chewing by adding lanolin—an oil found in wool—to their cat's food. Others have had success mixing a little fiber into the food. Consult your veterinarian before you change your pet's food, however, as some dietary changes can cause an upset stomach or other health problems.
  • Give him healthy things to chew. Try giving your cat smaller, more frequent feedings, so he'll have something in his bowl when he wants something to nibble. You might want to try a timed food dispenser, which you could set to release a small amount of food every few hours. You can also grow a cat garden so he'll have grass to chew. You can buy preplanted gardens at some pet stores, or you can grow one yourself by planting a pot of rye or wheat, with a little catnip mixed in.

You may need more than one of these techniques-or all of them-to slow down or eliminate pica, but it can be done. If you need help, your veterinarian or a behaviorist can design a program to retrain your fuzzy buddy. Most important is that you be patient, and keep your sweaters out of reach!


Vomiting, Diarrhea and your cat -- what you need to know as caretaker

Feline vomiting and diarrhea may occur together and have many causes,
including eating garbage, foreign body or toxin ingestion,
gastrointestinal parasites, gastrointestinal infection or
inflammation, stomach ulcers, inflammation of the pancreas,
inflammatory bowel disease, food allergies, hormonal abnormalties,
liver or kidney disease and gastrointestinal cancer.

If your cat or dog is vomiting or has diarrhea, please contact your
veterinarian.

Saturday, January 16, 2010

your cat and intestinal parasites -- what to do?

Intestinal Parasites and your cat:




Perhaps your pet will never have intestinal parasites. But, unpleasant as it may seem, pet owners should be aware of worms and other parasites that can affect their animals' health.

Cats and dogs are the favorite nesting grounds of four principal groups of worms and a few species of microscopic protozoa. The four worms are roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms. Among the protozoa are coccidia, toxoplasma, giardia, and ameba.

Proper identification is vital. Unfortunately, in the case of parasites, identification isn't always easy because adult worms release their eggs sporadically. Knowing exactly what the problem is, is the first step in finding a solution.

It's very important to bring your pet's fecal sample (bowel movement) to your veterinarian as often as requested up to one year of age. Collect fresh fecal sample within 12 hours of an examination. It is also very important to keep the samples cool or refrigerated. A microscopic examination of the fecal sample will be performed to identify the worm's eggs.

An annual fecal check is also good preventive medicine.

Treatment begins once the specific parasites are identified. It's important to realize that different parasites will require different medications. Your veterinarian can administer the proper treatment for your pet. There are also some new preventive medicines on the market. Check with your veterinarian about whether these are appropriate for your pet.

Tapeworms are of special concern. Tapeworm segments resemble small pieces of rice. They are one of the few parasites that may be seen in a bowel movement or clinging to the hair near your pet's tail. If you notice these segments, carefully place them in a small container and take them to your veterinarian for positive identification along with a fecal sample. Several types of worms may be involved, and it is important to identify all of them for proper treatment.

Once identification is made, the proper deworming medication must be administered. With some intestinal worms, treatment of the environment also may be needed.

Most treatments take only a few days. However, periodic checking is necessary to be sure that all intestinal worms have been eliminated. A fecal sample should be reexamined about three to four weeks after the deworming. Your veterinarian may request an additional fecal sample at a later date.

Once the problem is treated, it makes sense to prevent reinfection. Bowel movements are the greatest source of most worms. To avoid worms, keep your pet away from areas where other animals have relieved themselves and dispose of bowel movements as quickly as possible in your own yard.

Under some conditions of poor hygiene, worms can be transmitted to humans. Discuss the risk of human exposure with your veterinarian.

A change in appetite, coughing, diarrhea (sometimes with blood), weight loss, a rough-dry coat, or just an overall poor appearance are symptoms caused by intestinal worms. If you suspect the presence of parasites, consult your veterinarian immediately. Sometimes healthy, well-fed pets do not show signs of intestinal parasites.

Always seek veterinary advice before deworming your pet.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Cat crying all night long? -- just be glad it's not this rascal short haired brown tabby

SCIENTISTS WE CAN BE PROUD OF -- classic scholarship on feral house cat behavior


Title: BEHAVIORAL ECOLOGY OF FERAL HOUSE CATS IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS, ECUADOR
Author(s): KONECNY, MICHAEL JOHN
Degree: PH.D.
Year: 1983
Pages: 00137
Institution: UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA; 0070
Source: DAI, 45, no. 04B, (1983): 1130
Abstract: Feral house cats (Felis catus) were studied at two sites in the Galapagos Islands. Visual observations, fecal collections, and radio telemetry data were gathered to elucidate their ecology and social organization. Sixty-eight percent of all cats trapped were adults; the adult sex ratio was 2.62 males per female. The density of adult cats at both sites was approximately two cats per square kilometer, although the habitat at each site differed in structure and quality.

Transect analyses revealed that there were temporal fluctuations in prey abundance, while the numbers consumed were often different. There were seasonal differences in diet breadth; the diet was broader in the dry season. A posteriori attempts to determine prey preferences indicated that rats, small birds, lava lizards, and grasshoppers were consumed most frequently. A comparison of estimated daily energy intake and daily energy requirements for males and females indicated that males and pregnant and lactating females probably face energy stresses. The energy stress on pregnant and lactating females may be severe, contributing to their apparent greater mortality.

The plotted movements of radio-collared cats revealed large differences in home range size between sexes and sites. At Cerro Colorado the home ranges were larger and more overlapping than those at Tagus Cove. In the qualitatively richer habitat of Cerro Colorado locations were concentrated near the coast, while those at Tagus Cove were more diffuse. Plots of daily movements revealed that foraging paths at Cerro Colorado crisscrossed frequently, while paths were essentially straight at Tagus Cove. The activity cycle was bimodally crepuscular with the lowest activity in the early afternoon.

Little aggression was seen during dominance interactions at Cerro Colorado, while no interactions were observed at Tagus Cove. From all the collected data it was hypothesized that feral cats are solitary, opportunistic predators with broad diets. Differences in habitat quality between sites resulted in different social organizations, with a dominance hierarchy at Cerro Colorado and olfactory-mediated territoriality at Tagus Cove.

cats and gender differences -- what do they mean for your neutered indoor friends?


Title: GENDER DIFFERENCES IN THE SOCIAL BEHAVIOR OF THE INDOOR-ONLY NEUTERED DOMESTIC CAT (FELIS CATUS, AGGRESSION)
Author(s): BARRY, KIMBERLY JOSEPHINE
Degree: PH.D.
Year: 1998
Pages: 00081
Institution: UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA; 0077
Advisor: Director: SHARON L. CROWELL-DAVIS
Source: DAI, 59, no. 06B, (1998): 3042
Abstract: The domestic cat exhibits a wide variety of social behaviors. The aim of this experiment was to investigate factors that influence the affiliative and aggressive behavior of the indoor-only neutered domestic cat. Sixty households comprised of either two males, two females, or a male and female cat were observed. The cats were between 6 months and 8 years old and were always restricted to the indoors. Each pair of housemates was observed for 10 h. There were no differences in affiliative or aggressive behavior based on cat gender. The male/male households did spend more time in close proximity. The amount of time the cats had lived together was negatively correlated with the amount of aggression observed during the study. Factors such as size of the house and weight difference between the cats did not correlate with the aggression rate. Large standard deviations and the correlations of social behavior between housemates indicated the importance of individual differences in behavior.

Cats and Behavioral Problems -- what you need to know to be a serious caretaker for your loved one

Title: The elimination behavior patterns of domestic cats (Felis catus) with and without elimination behavior problems
Author(s): Sung, Wailani
Degree: Ph.D.
Year: 2001
Pages: 00025
Institution: University of Georgia; 0077
Advisor: Director Sharon Crowell-Davis
Source: DAI, 62, no. 09B (2001): p. 4206
Standard No: ISBN: 0-493-37413-2
Abstract: The elimination patterns of single housed domestic cats were studied to test three hypotheses regarding the relationship between litterbox location and the cats' use of space in the house: (1) The litterbox location was predicted to differ between cats that eliminate in the litterbox (control) and cats that eliminate outside the litterbox. Specifically, the control cats would have the litterboxes located within the core area, whereas problem cats would be more likely to have the litterboxes located outside the core area; (2) There would be an inverse correlation between the time any cat spends digging, sniffing, covering and pawing within the litterbox and the distance of the litterbox from the central core area; (3) There would be a difference in elimination behavior at the litterbox between control cats and problem cats. Specifically, when they do use the litterbox, the problem cats would spend less time digging prior to elimination and covering after elimination than control cats. A total of forty cats in single cat households were observed, twenty cats without any elimination behavior problem and twenty cats with elimination behavior problems. A camcorder was positioned outside of the litterbox to record the sequence of behaviors of each cat prior to and during elimination and the behavior exhibited afterwards. In households with problem cats, one camcorder was focused on the litterbox and a second (and, if necessary, a third) camera was used to record the pattern of behavior at the areas in which the cats preferred to eliminate. The camcorders were used to record the elimination behavior for 72 hours. Use of space in the house was recorded by direct observation during 400 minutes of these 72 hours. This study found that litterbox location did not differ between cats with and without elimination behavior problems. An inverse correlation was found between time spent sniffing and the distance of the litterbox from the central core area. Problem cats spent significantly less time digging at the litterbox than control cats. There was no significant difference in the time the two groups of cats spent covering after elimination.

Cat Asthma -- just the facts

Title: Immunomodulation in experimental feline asthma
Author(s): Norris, Carol Rose
Degree: Ph.D.
Year: 2004
Pages: 00157
Institution: University of California, Davis; 0029
Advisor: Adviser Laurel J. Gershwin
Source: DAI, 65, no. 06B (2004): p. 2841
Abstract: Cats naturally develop asthma that is remarkably close to the human disease; to study both, an experimental model of feline asthma was created using house dust mite and Bermuda grass allergen. Selection of clinically relevant allergens was performed by screening for allergen-specific IgE in pet cats with spontaneous asthma. Experimentally asthmatic cats developed clinical signs of asthma: serum allergen-specific IgE; increased serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) allergen-specific IgG and IgA; airways hyperreactivity; airways eosinophilia; an early Th2 cytokine profile; and histologic evidence of airways remodeling.

This model was first used to evaluate novel therapeutics for pet cats with asthma. Results showed oral and inhaled corticosteroids significantly decreased airways eosinophilic inflammation, and although not statistically significant, the oral steroid and an anti-seritonergic drug reduced airway hyperresponsiveness in a subgroup of cats. Oral corticosteroids also decreased serum BGA-specific IgE. Unlike in humans asthmatics, a leukotriene receptor antagonist had no significant effect on inflammation or airways hyperresponsiveness.

The model was also used to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and immunologic mechanisms of rush immunotherapy (RIT). Rush immunotherapy dampens the immune response to allergen and involves administration of increasing doses of allergen given over a few days. Although not without risk, RIT significantly decreased BALF eosinophils compared with baseline, and altered cytokine profiles (decreased IL-4 and IL-5; increased Ifn-g and IL-10 in BALF). BGA-specific IgG significantly increased with RIT. The lymphocyte proliferative response to BGA also decreased at 6 months.

The last study examined CpG motifs (DNA sequences found in high frequency in bacteria that when recognized by vertebrate immune systems, allows mounting of a strongly protective Th1 bias). In our model, trials using different CpG motif sequences, routes of deliver), and doses per treatment were to performed to determine an optimal protocol. Results suggested that more than one protocol using CpG motifs had immunomodulatory effects in vivo. Although no treatment minimized clinical signs of airways hyperreactivity, most treatments dampened eosinophilic airways inflammation. Serum and BALF IgA levels decreased with some CpG treatments, as did BGA-specific lymphocyte proliferation. Future studies should focus improving the efficacy of CpG motifs, perhaps by concurrent administration of allergen.

Cats and Ticks -- Ehrlichia and what you need to know from the medical experts, latest info

Title: Ehrlichia in animals and humans (Ehrlichia phagocytophila)
Author(s): Bjoersdorff, Anneli
Degree: Ph.D.
Year: 2001
Pages: 00108
Institution: Lunds Universitet (Sweden); 0899
Source: DAI, 63, no. 03C (2001): p. 448
Standard No: ISBN: 91-628-4754-6
Abstract: Ehrlichia phagocytophila is a tick-borne pathogen of domestic animals, which has recently been acknowledged also as a human pathogen. It is a strictly intracellular bacterium, infecting granulocytes of the host, sometimes resulting in clinical disease—granulocytic ehrlichiosis—with manifestations ranging from mild flu-like conditions to severe infections with multi-organ failure and death. This thesis probes into four main aspects of E. phagocytophila and granulocytic ehrlichiosis, namely the isolation and characterisation of Swedish strains, the pathogenesis in an animal model, the seroprevalence of antibodies in tick-exposed human populations, and the prospective monitoring of clinical cases of granulocytic ehrlichiosis in animals and humans. Main findings include the isolation and propagation of E. phagocytophila in cell-line culture, and partial genetic characterisation of those isolates and other clinical strains of E. phagocytophila. Comparison of partial sequences of the 16S rRNA and the groESL genes and one gene (ank) coding for a structural protein, of strains of Swedish, Slovenian and North American origin revealed a close relationship, but placed all European isolates in a separate Glade. Experimental infection of dogs showed that the most prominent clinical sign of granulocytic ehrlichiosis was fever. Haematological changes occurred in all infected individuals even in those with non-apparent clinical signs. Furthermore, granulocytic ehrlichiosis was established as a clinical entity in cats, and granulocytic ehrlichiosis was verified as a common infection in humans living in tick-infested areas, often as a co-infection with Lyme borreliosis. Six case reports of human granulocytic ehrlichiosis are described in detail and proper approaches to the diagnosis and clinical management of granulocytic ehrlichiosis is discussed, and commercial and in-house E. phagocytophila antigens evaluated.

West Nile Virus and your cat -- what you need to know

Title: The pathogenesis of West Nile virus in dogs, cats, and house sparrows
Author(s): Austgen, Laura E.
Degree: Ph.D.
Year: 2003
Pages: 00124
Institution: Colorado State University; 0053
Advisor: Adviser Richard A. Bowen
Source: DAI, 64, no. 12B (2003): p. 5911
Abstract: In the 1990s, a more aggressive and neurovirulent form of West Nile virus (WNV, family Flaviviridae, genus Flavivirus, species West Nile virus) emerged that has caused morbidity and mortality in human beings, horses, and most severely, a large number of avian species. This work explores the replication of WNV in three species: dogs and cats, of potential import due to their close association with human beings; and house sparrows, significant avian hosts of WNV. Domestic dogs and cats were infected by mosquito bite. Each of four dogs developed a viremia of low magnitude and short duration, but did not display signs of disease. Twenty-one of 23 cats became viremic, with peak titers from 101.0 –104.2 plaque forming units/ml. Several cats showed mild, non-neurologic signs of disease. WNV was not isolated from saliva of any of the dogs or cats tested. An additional group of four cats were exposed to WNV orally. Two cats consumed an infected mouse on three consecutive days and two cats consumed one infected mouse. All of these cats developed viremia with magnitude and duration similar to that seen in cats infected by mosquito bite, but none showed clinical signs. These results suggest that dogs and cats are readily infected by WNV, and that infected prey animals may serve as an important source of infection to carnivores. The magnitude of viremia measured in dogs and cats indicates that neither species is likely to function as an epidemiologically-significant amplifying host, although the peak viremia observed in some cats may infect mosquitoes at low efficiency.

Passer domesticus, the house sparrow, is thought to have key importance in the amplification and maintenance of WNV. To gain understanding of the pathogenesis of WNV in this host, virus isolation was performed at intervals on a battery of tissues obtained from experimentally infected birds. WNV rapidly established disseminated infection with wide tissue tropism. Skin was the tissue from which virus was most consistently isolated, and was also the first in which WNV was detected—as early as 12 hours postinfection. Other tissues frequently containing virus included blood, heart, lung, liver, kidney, and testis.


SUBJECT(S)
Descriptor: BIOLOGY, MICROBIOLOGY
HEALTH SCIENCES, PATHOLOGY
BIOLOGY, VETERINARY SCIENCE

Jungle C.A.T.S.: The redesigning of a feline husbandry system for an animal research facility

Author(s): Glendenning, Heather
Degree: M.E.Des.
Year: 2006
Pages: 00143
Institution: University of Calgary (Canada); 0026
Source: MAI, 46, no. 05 (2006): p. 2745
Standard No: ISBN: 978-0-494-37654-6
Abstract: The medical industry and the search of cures for the illnesses and diseases of our time is a growing concern for many people within our society. According to Statistics Canada, research and development in the healthcare field has gained importance in Canada within the past several decades. Behind the scenes, but fundamental to medical progress thus far, there exists a large and often forgotten or invisible aspect to the biomedical research field. This is animal based biomedical research. Good science and good animal care are inseparable.

This MDP project explores the animal care aspect of this formula and attempts to identify problem areas with respect to the living and working environments that could in fact be negatively impacting the animals' level of care and the staffs' level of productivity.

This MDP examines the care and use of laboratory cats within an existing animal research facility and uncovers the reasons that necessitate a redesign of the living environment for the cats, the working environment for the animal care staff that care for them, and ultimately the success of a medical research vivarium facility.

This MDP has developed guidelines and has conceptually redesigned a 'cat enclosure' while reorganizing a cat room in an existing facility. These conceptual changes could in turn directly influence the possible research outcomes and the potential discovery of a cure. When placed in that context, this MDP becomes an important link in the chain for animal and human welfare in the framework of biomedical research.

Keywords. animal based research, animal care technicians, animal enclosure design, ARC, biomedical research, cats, cat play structure, CCAC, emotional design, environmental enrichment, ergonomics, feline living environment, human working environment, human factors, laboratory environment, micro architecture, physical needs, psychological needs, social needs, tree house, vivarium.

outstanding new research into how labaratory cats are treated -- Noteworthy Canadian Research

Author(s): Glendenning, Heather
Degree: M.E.Des.
Year: 2006
Pages: 00143
Institution: University of Calgary (Canada); 0026
Source: MAI, 46, no. 05 (2006): p. 2745
Standard No: ISBN: 978-0-494-37654-6
Abstract: The medical industry and the search of cures for the illnesses and diseases of our time is a growing concern for many people within our society. According to Statistics Canada, research and development in the healthcare field has gained importance in Canada within the past several decades. Behind the scenes, but fundamental to medical progress thus far, there exists a large and often forgotten or invisible aspect to the biomedical research field. This is animal based biomedical research. Good science and good animal care are inseparable.

This MDP project explores the animal care aspect of this formula and attempts to identify problem areas with respect to the living and working environments that could in fact be negatively impacting the animals' level of care and the staffs' level of productivity.

This MDP examines the care and use of laboratory cats within an existing animal research facility and uncovers the reasons that necessitate a redesign of the living environment for the cats, the working environment for the animal care staff that care for them, and ultimately the success of a medical research vivarium facility.

This MDP has developed guidelines and has conceptually redesigned a 'cat enclosure' while reorganizing a cat room in an existing facility. These conceptual changes could in turn directly influence the possible research outcomes and the potential discovery of a cure. When placed in that context, this MDP becomes an important link in the chain for animal and human welfare in the framework of biomedical research.

Keywords. animal based research, animal care technicians, animal enclosure design, ARC, biomedical research, cats, cat play structure, CCAC, emotional design, environmental enrichment, ergonomics, feline living environment, human working environment, human factors, laboratory environment, micro architecture, physical needs, psychological needs, social needs, tree house, vivarium.

geriatric cats -- what you need to know

Cognitive dysfunction and the
neurobiology of ageing in cats
With improvements in nutrition and veterinary medicine the life
expectancy of pet cats is increasing. Accompanying this growing
geriatric population there are increasing numbers of cats with signs
of apparent senility. A recent study suggests that 28 per cent of pet
cats aged 11 to 14 years develop at least one geriatric onset
behavioural problem, and this increases to over 50 per cent for cats
of 15 years of age or older. While behavioural changes may result
from systemic illness, organic brain disease or true behavioural causes may also be at the root.

Potential causes of behavioural changes in geriatric cats
d Arthritis (the pain and/or dysfunction of arthritis is often underrecognised in elderly cats)*
d Systemic hypertension (high blood pressure may either be primary or secondary to, for
example, hyperthyroidism, renal failure, diabetes mellitus, acromegaly or
hyperadrenocorticism)
d Hyperthyroidism
d Chronic renal failure
d Diabetes mellitus
d Urinary tract infection
d Gastrointestinal disease
d Liver disease
d Neurological defects (either sensory or motor deficits)
d Reduced vision or hearing
d Brain tumours (for example, lymphoma, meningioma)
d Infectious disease (for example, FIV, FeLV, toxoplasmosis, FIP or, perhaps, Borna disease)
d Dental or periodontal disease
d Inflammatory disease in general
d Pain in general
d True behavioural problems
d Cognitive dysfunction syndrome
*The importance of arthritis should not be overlooked. Radiographic evidence of degenerative joint disease is present in
70 to 90 per cent of cats over 10 years of age (Hardie and others 2002, Clarke and others 2005). Associated pain
and/or dysfunction can result in reduced activity and mobility (Clarke and Bennett 2006), aggression, altered
interactions with the family and/or loss of litter box training (Houpt and Beaver 1981). When asked, most owners list
the diseases that they see in their older cats in a different order to the list generated by veterinary surgeons. Top of the
owner’s list is arthritis, and this is followed by kidney failure, deafness, blindness, hyperthyroidism, bronchitis and dental
problems (V. Halls, personal communication). Owners can help their arthritic cats by adjusting their house; for example,
by moving food and water bowls to lower surfaces, adding ramps to allow easier access to favoured sleeping areas
and placing low-sided litter boxes within easy cat reach.
Journal of Small Animal Practice  Vol 48  October 2007   2007 British Small Animal Veterinary Association

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Parasites and Cats -- some facts about External and Internal Parasites and what it means for your cat


External and Internal Parasites

 
 

What makes pets such a prime target for parasites? Animals provide the perfect living environment. Blood, sweat, and tears isn't just a rock band from the 60's--to the parasite, they're a three-course lunch. Pet hair also is a warm, protective environment and a means of transportation to another host.

Skin deep

The most common unwanted visitors having a party at your pets' expense are ectoparasites--fleas, ticks and mites. They live on or burrow into their hosts' skin. Fleas are particularly pesky, since they can infest your pet and take over your home. The good news is that they're fairly easy to spot--you'll probably notice your pet's discomfort and scratching. The small (a little more than one millimeter), wingless, brown, and fast moving fleas may even be seen in your pet's fur.

Some dogs and cats can be allergic to fleas' saliva, which causes their skin to become inflamed. In addition, if the fleas carry pathogens, cats may easily become infected because they ingest about 50 percent of the fleas on their coats while grooming.

If your pet has fleas, your first thought might be to try an old-fashioned flea dip. But these dips can be highly toxic, inducing severe side effects like vomiting, fever, seizures, coma, and possibly death. Instead of dipping your dog or cat, you can easily apply a drop to your pet's skin that will kill fleas and prevent adults from laying eggs. Your veterinarian can suggest safe, effective products for your pet.

A hitchhiker

Another common parasite, especially during the summer months, is the tick. Ticks can be found looking for a free ride almost anywhere in most climates, though they prefer to hang out in wooded, damp, and grassy areas before attaching themselves to your pet. Some tick bites may be harmless; others can cause anemia, skin damage, irritation, and hypersensitivity.

Some of the most common diseases transmitted by tick bites are Lyme disease, tick-borne fever, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. If untreated, these diseases can cause severe health problems and can be fatal.

So what are some of the signs of a tick-borne disease? Common symptoms of Lyme disease are arthritis, lameness, depression, and loss of appetite. Tick-borne fever can cause weakness, a cough, labored breathing, fatigue, and discharge from the nose or eyes. The symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever are similar to those of tick-borne fever. Or more generally, you may find that your pet isn't eating and is lethargic, depressed, and feverish. If any of these symptoms occur, it's imperative that you take your ailing buddy to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

The best preventative is to check your pet's skin and fur after spending a day in the woods, at the local lake, or even in your own backyard. Removing a tick the wrong way can hurt your friend. Don't try to burn it off with a match. The smell of the smoke won't make the tick loosen its grip, and the match could burn your furry companion. An alcohol swab rubbed or placed around the area may help loosen the kung fu grip of the tick. Using tweezers, grab the tick as close to the head as possible and slowly pull it out. If you flush the tick down the toilet before killing it, there is no promise that it won't crawl back up at an inopportune time. The best way to kill a tick is to place it in a sealed jar with alcohol.

It might be a mite

Another parasite to watch for is the mite. Lots of pet owners are familiar with ear mites. If you notice your pet scratching his ear intensely or biting himself, he could have ear mites. These pests also leave a brown or black crust on the outer ear.

Another type of mite is scabies. After burrowing into your pet's skin, scabies mites lay eggs. Once they hatch, the larvae feed on your pet's skin and release a secretion that causes severe itching. Take your pet to the veterinarian immediately if you suspect scabies mites, because they are highly contagious, and the excessive scratching they cause can lead to infections.

When treating mites, your best bet is to take your pet to your veterinarian rather than to try an at-home remedy or an over-the-counter medicine that may not be effective.

Crawling in and crawling out

Almost all puppies and kittens have some type of internal parasite feeding on their blood and protein. These parasites can affect your pet's ability to absorb nutrients, and without treatment, they can potentially damage the lining of the intestinal tract.

The most common internal parasites are tapeworms, hookworms, whipworms, and roundworms. Tapeworms can be passed onto your pet through fleas, which sometimes carry this parasite in its larval stage. Outside pets also can get them by eating infected rodents. If you find your pet is constantly licking his anal area, your best bet is to visually inspect the area and his stool for bits of tapeworm, which look like rice.

Hookworms attach themselves to your pet's intestinal lining, causing bloody or dark diarrhea. Whipworms, which can be found in the large intestine, also can cause diarrhea. If you notice blood in your pet's stool, collect a sample to take into your veterinarian, because the worms and eggs are only visible by microscope.

Last, but of course not least, is the roundworm, which lives in the small intestine. These worms may cause vomiting and resemble strands of spaghetti in your pet's stool. They are easily transmitted to humans, especially children, and can cause serious human health problems, including blindness.

An ounce of prevention

How can you protect your family and pet from these common parasites? If your children enjoy playing in the sandbox, remember that the neighborhood cat might, too. If the sandbox has become his litter box, your children run the risk of contracting roundworms through fecal-oral transmission. Children are more prone to roundworm, but avid or amateur gardeners also need to beware. That neighborhood cat may be using your garden for his litter box as well. The best preventatives are to cover up the sandbox, wear gloves when gardening, and constantly wash your hands after being outside.

Collecting a stool sample each year and taking your pet to your veterinarian will help ensure that he is worm free. Most heartworm medicines now contain a preventative for whipworm, roundworm, and hookworm, so be sure to follow your veterinarian's recommended dosages.

Pay close attention to your pet. If you notice your furry companion scraping his bottom on the carpet, scratching his ears, vomiting, passing diarrhea, turning up his nose at the food bowl, or just not being himself, take the hint that something is wrong and schedule an appointment with your veterinarian immediately. Parasites can be a problem any time of the year, but a few preventative measures will protect the health of all of your loved ones.


Cats and Intestinal Parasites -- some basic facts to help you be a more informed caretaker


Intestinal Parasites

 

Perhaps your pet will never have intestinal parasites. But, unpleasant as it may seem, pet owners should be aware of worms and other parasites that can affect their animals' health.

Cats and dogs are the favorite nesting grounds of four principal groups of worms and a few species of microscopic protozoa. The four worms are roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms. Among the protozoa are coccidia, toxoplasma, giardia, and ameba.

Proper identification is vital. Unfortunately, in the case of parasites, identification isn't always easy because adult worms release their eggs sporadically. Knowing exactly what the problem is, is the first step in finding a solution.

It's very important to bring your pet's fecal sample (bowel movement) to your veterinarian as often as requested up to one year of age. Collect fresh fecal sample within 12 hours of an examination. It is also very important to keep the samples cool or refrigerated. A microscopic examination of the fecal sample will be performed to identify the worm's eggs.

An annual fecal check is also good preventive medicine.

Treatment begins once the specific parasites are identified. It's important to realize that different parasites will require different medications. Your veterinarian can administer the proper treatment for your pet. There are also some new preventive medicines on the market. Check with your veterinarian about whether these are appropriate for your pet.

Tapeworms are of special concern. Tapeworm segments resemble small pieces of rice. They are one of the few parasites that may be seen in a bowel movement or clinging to the hair near your pet's tail. If you notice these segments, carefully place them in a small container and take them to your veterinarian for positive identification along with a fecal sample. Several types of worms may be involved, and it is important to identify all of them for proper treatment.

Once identification is made, the proper deworming medication must be administered. With some intestinal worms, treatment of the environment also may be needed.

Most treatments take only a few days. However, periodic checking is necessary to be sure that all intestinal worms have been eliminated. A fecal sample should be reexamined about three to four weeks after the deworming. Your veterinarian may request an additional fecal sample at a later date.

Once the problem is treated, it makes sense to prevent reinfection. Bowel movements are the greatest source of most worms. To avoid worms, keep your pet away from areas where other animals have relieved themselves and dispose of bowel movements as quickly as possible in your own yard.

Under some conditions of poor hygiene, worms can be transmitted to humans. Discuss the risk of human exposure with your veterinarian.

A change in appetite, coughing, diarrhea (sometimes with blood), weight loss, a rough-dry coat, or just an overall poor appearance are symptoms caused by intestinal worms. If you suspect the presence of parasites, consult your veterinarian immediately. Sometimes healthy, well-fed pets do not show signs of intestinal parasites.

Always seek veterinary advice before deworming your pet.

Eye Infections and Cats -- some basic information about cats and their eyes

Eye Infections

 
 

Certain viral and bacterial infections in young cats can cause conjunctivitis (inflammation of the pink membrane on the inside of the eyelids and around the eye) and sometimes corneal disease. The cornea is the clear window at the front of the eye.

The same infection often also causes inflammation of the nose, lungs and/or tongue. Signs may include discharge from the eyes or excessive tearing, signs of eye pain (squinting, keeping the eye closed or keeping the third eyelid over the eye), redness in the eyes, cloudiness of the corneas, sneezing, discharge from the nose, coughing, drooling and difficulty eating.

If you observe these symptoms in your cat, contact your veterinarian.


what you need to know as a cat lover about FIDV -- feline immune deficiency viruses

Feline Immune Deficiency Viruses

What are feline immune deficiency viruses?

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) belong to a family of viruses know as retroviruses. The most infamous retrovirus is HIV, which causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in people. The major characteristic of retroviruses is that they decrease the ability of the immune system to fight infections.

Humans and dogs cannot catch FIV or FeLV or develop AIDS through exposure to FIV-positive or FeLV-positive cats. Only cats are susceptible to these diseases.

How do cats get FIV or FeLV?

Most cats become infected with FIV when they are bitten while fighting with an infected cat. The virus, present in the saliva of infected cats, passes beneath the skin of the victim when he is bitten. FIV is not spread by casual contact between cats (by sharing food and water bowls or litter pans, by airborne germs or by mutual grooming) it is unusual for cats in the same household to spread the disease to each other unless they fight.

FeLV is spread through contact with saliva, urine, or blood. Also, an infected mother cat can pass the virus to her kittens before they are born or through her milk while nursing.

Most FIV-positive cats have a history of cat fights and bite-wound abscesses. Considering that bites are the primary mode of transmission, it is not surprising that cats at greatest risk of FIV infection are outdoor, adult males who are most likely to engage in aggressive fights over territory.

Sexual transmission of FIV is theoretically possible. However, the actual incidence of sexual transmission is unknown. This possibility can be greatly reduced by early neutering/spaying.

How do I know if my cat has FIV?

In most cases, there is no way to know whether your cat has FIV without a blood test. All kittens and cats should be tested to determine if they are infected, even if they show no physical signs of disease.

FIV infection progresses slowly, with a long interval between initial exposure and the onset of signs of the disease. Cats diagnosed with FIV infection may remain free of symptoms for years. Because their immune systems are compromised, FIV-positive cats often develop illnesses that are unrelated to the virus itself. It is the onset of these illnesses that may be the first indication a cat is immunosuppressed, thus raising suspicions of an underlying retroviral infection.

Common health problems reported in cats in the chronic stage of FIV infection include:

  • Oral-cavity infections
  • Upper-respiratory infections
  • Weight loss
  • Skin infections
  • Ear infections
  • Fever of unknown origin
  • Enlarged lymph nodes
  • Low red- or white-blood-cell counts
  • Kidney disease
  • Eye disease
  • Reproductive failure, such as spontaneous abortions or stillbirths
  • Neurologic disease, such as personality changes, tremors, or seizures

How do I know if my cat has FeLV?

Cats can carry FeLV disease without showing any physical signs. The only way to know for certain whether your cat has FeLV is to have your veterinarian test his blood for the presence of the FeLV virus. All cats and kittens should be tested, even if they show no physical signs of disease.

Like cats with FIV, cats with FeLV often develop illnesses that are unrelated to the virus itself be-cause their immune systems are compromised. Health problems associated with FeLV include:

  • Anemia, which causes a lack of pink or red color in the gums
  • Weight loss
  • Recurring or chronic illness
  • Fading Kitten Syndrome, during which a kitten becomes progressively weaker
  • A syndrome similar to distemper, with lethargy, fever, and diarrhea
  • Persistent or recurring fevers or infections
  • Rapid breathing or difficulty with breathing
  • Jaundice, which causes a yellow color in the mouth and/or the whites of the eyes
  • Eye infections and disease
  • Certain types of cancer

Is there any treatment for FIV or FeLV?

To date, there is no cure for FIV or FeLV infection. FIV-positive cats are considered to be infected for life. Some cats infected with FeLV may revert to a FeLV-negative status, but others remain infected for life. Your veterinarian can provide supportive care for your cat and can treat some of the secondary illnesses that develop as a result of the disease.

Diagnostic tests, such as blood profiles, fecal exams, urinalyses, and radiographs (x-rays), are frequently required before your veterinarian can begin treatment. Care may include providing fluids, B-vitamins, appetite stimulants, and antidiarrheal medications. Though there are no drugs or therapeutic agents licensed for treatment of feline retroviral infections at this time, cats may benefit from certain prescription medication. Other forms of therapy, such as homeopathy, botanical medicine, and nutritional supplementation, are also gaining popularity. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove that these less conventional forms of therapy are effective.

The prognosis for FIV-positive or FeLV-postive cats depends on 1) the stage of infection; 2) the nature and severity of any coexisting infections; and 3) how promptly and aggressively the infection is treated. Cats can live long and relatively healthy lives despite retroviral infection. This is because some related disorders, including secondary infections, respond well if they are diagnosed early and treated aggressively.

How can these diseases be prevented?

First, it is important to vaccinate your cat against FeLV if it comes into contact with other cats. Your veterinarian can discuss your cats potential exposure to and risk of developing FeLV infection. Currently, there are no vaccines to protect cats against FIV infection.

Second, make sure your cat is never exposed to an FIV-positive or FeLV-positive cat. This means keeping your cat indoors and separated from all cats of unknown FeLV and FIV status. Unsupervised outdoor activity puts cats at risk. There is no way to ensure that cats allowed to roam freely outdoors will not be exposed to other cats that have an immune deficiency disease. Most cats currently infected with FIV or FeLV were first exposed to the disease through this kind of contact.

Third, have all of your cats tested for FIV and FeLV on a regular basis. In particular, testing is recommended for:

  • Any newly acquired kitten or adult cat before it joins a multiple-cat household and prior to the first FeLV vaccine
  • Any cat used for breeding
  • Any cat with known FIV or FeLV exposure (if the first test is negative, retest every three to six months for one year)
  • Any sick cat with symptoms that suggest FIV or FeLV infection

Feline Leukemia Primer -- what you need to know to help your loved one

Feline Leukemia

If your cat has frequent contact with other cats or kittens, you should be informed about feline leukemia virus. The presence of this virus causes major problems with the cat or kitten's immune system and other organs, and may even cause cancer. Research indicates that feline leukemia virus is highly contagious among cats of all ages. Current research indicates that it does not affect humans or other species. Among cats, it is spread by saliva, urine, and blood. A cat can also pass the virus along to its kittens in a number of ways before they are born.

Some of the symptoms include:

  • Anemia, lack of pink or red color in the gums
  • Weight loss
  • Recurring or chronic illness
  • A progressive weakness
  • Lethargy, fever, diarrhea
  • Breathing difficulty
  • Yellow color in the mouth and/or the white of the eyes

Remember, avoiding exposure with infected cats and updating vaccinations are the best tools of preventive medicine. Your veterinarian can determine the best program for your cat.