Learn More About Abyssinians
Abyssinians are one of the most popular cat breeds. In fact, they are actually in the top 5! This breed is one that has always caught my eye with their sleek faces and bodies. Their reddish color is also quite unique and stunning up close. So, where did this breed come from and how what kind of pets are they? Let’s find out about this beautiful domestic shorthair breed! Where Did Abyssinians Come From? In the mid 1800s, British soldiers returned from Africa with cats from the Abyssinia region, now known as Ethiopia. They are one of the oldest breeds of cats. Some even believe them to be the mummified cats found in the tombs of Egyptian mummies. The breed was officially recognized at a cat show in the UK. Genetic testing shows that the breed most likely originated in part of Asia or India. With their striking similarities to my favorite cats (siamese!), this doesn’t surprise me at all! What Do Abyssinians Look Like? What has always caught my eye about Abys are their traditional ruddy or reddish brown coloring. Their coats are accented with black marks, similar to some tabbies. They even have the classic M on the forehead. Possibly abyssinian colors include cinnamon/red, blue, a peachy color, white with black ticking and even a tortoiseshell color. Their short to medium coats are low-shed and super easy to keep clean. You can use a chamois to wipe them down, the very same one you’d use on a car. Their eyes can range from green and gold to an exotic copper color. Abyssinians have similar body shapes and size to siames – small to medium frames with long bodies. Their long legs and tails are combined with a wedge-shaped face and large ears. Unlike the siamese, Abyssinians have a sweet little chirp for a meow and not a loud howl that jolts you out of bed. What is Abyssinian Behavior Like? For people who say they love dog-like cats, then the Abyssinian is the perfect breed. Active, friendly and curious, these cats are on the go and love to roam and wander. They may not be the best lap cat as they prefer to be near you but not on you. They are very social cats and love to have companions, so they’re great for multiple cat homes. If you only plan on having one cat, make sure your Abyssinian still receives daily interaction and stimulation. If you travel or are not home a lot, this breed may not be the best choice. Also, they are prone to some health issues and this should be discussed with your veterinarian beforehand. You should always consider breed health as it could be a lifelong issue and higher cost over the cat's lifetime. If you think the Abyssinian is the breed for you, check into local breeders and expect to pay $500 and upward. These sleek, lovely cats will provide years of fun activity and playtime. You’ll be sure to make a lot of sweet memories with your Abyssinian!
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Why Do Cats Have Whiskers And What Do They Do?
As a child, my parents were always very clear that I had to leave the cat’s whiskers alone. Of course, for a kid it’s difficult to understand why such a small part on a cat’s body is so important. Many adults don’t even know! So why do cats have whiskers? And what purpose do they serve? These amazing little facial hairs are really quite fascinating for numerous reasons. Have you ever wondered how your cat can wander around at night and not bump into things? How about why they stick their head into something then pull back and walk away? Or why the whiskers seem fuller when happy and relaxed? Whiskers are behind all these questions and more! How Do Whiskers Work? To be very technical, whiskers are called “vibrissae.” This word is derived from the Latin term “vibrio,” meaning to vibrate. Whisker hair follicles have a touch sensor at each end, which sends messages back to the cat’s nervous and muscular systems. These messages help cats decipher their environments. These work similarly to a lane departure system in a car and can message the cat to adjust to its surroundings. They are highly sensitive, and can even sense changes in airflow and vibrations. This helps cats navigate in the dark, sense when predators are coming, and find small hidey holes. Whiskers are cleverly placed on the cat’s face and even on the backs of the front legs. Around the face, the eyebrows, cheek whiskers and chin whiskers all have these sensory abilities. One place that is not as noticeable is around the ankle or back calf on the front legs. These are known as “carpal whiskers” and help the cat as it is climbing around or up and down. This is also one reason cats like to reach for everything. I am always careful with these during grooming as you never want to cut a whisker! This can have horrible effects on a cat and can make the dizzy, unable to walk or disoriented. In some places, this is even noted as animal cruelty (as it should be!). Do All Cats Have Whiskers? The simple answer is yes! Provided your cat is healthy and hasn’t undergone abuse, fights, or hardship, all cats should have whiskers. Whiskers first appear on kittens around one month old. As the cat ages, they will change color and usually become darker and longer. Whiskers do fall out, just as our hair and eyelashes do, and they grow back. Don’t worry if you see a stray whisker on your floor! They will grow back into a perfect symmetrical balance. Some have said that whiskers grow longer as a cat grows wider, but that may not be accurate. However, this would make sense as the whiskers are the width of the cat’s body! This is an adaptation to gauge where a cat can fit without having to test it with its entire body. What Else Do Whiskers Do? Whiskers are also a gauge for a cat’s emotions. Flat back against the face means anger, popped out and relaxed means happy, and popped out and stiff means focused. You’ll notice a cat’s whiskers are particularly at attention when they’re hunting! Given how precious a cat’s whiskers are, it’s important to take care of them. There is a condition called whisker fatigue or whisker stress, which can happen with overstimulation. One way I have heard to help your cat avoid this is to feed in a wide-open bowl or flat plate and make sure their favorite haunts are wide enough for them to easily enter and exit. Water should be in a wide bowl or fountain so as not let the whiskers touch the side of a bowl. At the cat spa, we do follow this recommendation as being away from home is enough stress on the cats there! Next time you watch your cat hunt or strut through the living room, take note of the whisker placement and you might be surprised at how unique their facial hair is! Cat Kneading Explained
We’ve all experienced it. You wake up in the middle of the night, tiny little pinpricks digging into your skin, then retractracting, then skewering you again. It can happen at all hours of the day or night but it always wakes us up when the claws get involved. It’s funny, and often meant as a feline compliment. But, when it’s not relaxng it can be a legitimate pain. There are many names for this odd behavior: kneading, making biscuits, baking bread, and it’s something nearly all cats do. So, why do they do it? Why Do Cats Knead? The cat kneading a human is actually a very basic feline communication attempt. This is yet another shared trait with their big wild cat relatives, as cats of all sizes knead. Starting at birth, kittens knead while nursing to help push the milk out and to stimulate more production. Paws alternate from left to right in a rhythmic pattern. Animals other than cats also do this, but tend to grow out of the behavior. Kneading can include all four paws or only the front paws. Claw usage also varies across cats. One customer mentioned his cat will suckle on his blanket and drool when he kneads. This is also perfectly normal behavior! This ingrained kitten behavior stays with cats as they grow. It’s an indication the cat is comfortable or planning to get comfortable. There are other factors for the kneading but the most important one is that they will only do this around people they feel safe with. Should I Continue To Let My Cat Knead Me? While it may hurt us as those little needle claws dig in, it is the ultimate compliment that they really do care about us. It’s tough not to want to reprimand them or stop them, but I would suggest resisting this urge. Kneading can be a big anxiety/stress buster for cats. It takes them back to a simpler time when they were younger, and can also help them stretch their paws and release tension. Kneading can also help your cat bond with you. There are little glands in cat paws that release marking scents, indicating that your cat claims you as theirs. They’re marking you their property as they knead! Lastly, female cats in heat will use kneading as a sign to males that they are the ones chosen to breed with. Kneading is really a way of saying you’re approved by me. So, while this behavior can be a little disruptive or may ruin a delicate blanket, it’s really quite sweet. Learn More About Feline Diabetes
Human diabetes is a well known and researched disease. However, many pet owners aren’t aware of the ways this disease can affect their cats. Cats can become diabetic and have many similar challenges to their human counterparts. Read on to find out how this disease happens, how common it is and how to take care of it. How Common is Feline Diabetes? Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine states that 0.2-1% of cats suffer from feline diabetes. However, research indicates that this could be much lower than the actual rate of diabetes, as many cases may not be diagnosed or reported. As cats age and/or gain weight, they may be more likely to develop this disease. Now, not all heavy kitties will develop diabetes. Some are prone to develop it through individual genetics and certain breed types. Diabetes is defined by Type 1 and Type 2:
Type 1 is insulin controlled while Type 2 can be controlled by food and weight management. Feline Diabetes Warning Signs There are several warning signs that can tell you if your cat is developing diabetes. These warning signs can also tell you if your cat’s existing diabetes is getting worse. The main signs to watch for with your cat are:
If you observe any of these signs, a trip to the veterinarian is key. They will diagnose your cat using insulin levels and blood work. Treating Feline Diabetes So your vet gives your cat a positive diabetes diagnosis, now what? Your vet will help plan a diet and regular office visit schedule to monitor the disease. You may be responsible for testing the cat’s blood sugar levels at home. They can recommend the proper glucose meter as human ones are not quite the same and your vet needs to approve the appropriate one. There is also a urine test kit if you want to try that method. Once you are on the proper path, it can take 3-6 months for the glucose levels to start to show improvement and level off. Have patience as it is a process! At this point, a proper diet plays an integral role in your cat’s health. My Daphne is pretty spot on with her meals but some cats are not. Having your cat eat at the same time each day will help regulate their insulin and blood sugar levels. Your vet can recommend what food is best for your cat’s individual health. However, here are a few general pointers to keep in mind.
Dry food can have filler carbs, so be careful with what brand dry food you choose. Now, wet food is typically 7% carbs or less which is the best choice. However, try to avoid the heavy gravy-like ones as gravy equals carbs and fats. Rich cooked meats such as fish and chicken are healthy, especially if you like to cook and can add some extra to the meal plan for kitty. Coming up with a game plan with your veterinarian is best as they can advise on brands, portions, exercise regimes, along with other ways to keep the insulin regulated. Diabetes won’t go away but it is very treatable, meaning your cat can live a long, full life. It is a commitment but that is the same as you made to bring them into your home and heart. Learn More About Maine Coons
Much to my surprise, the most popular breed here at the cat spa for grooming is paws down the Maine Coon. The first few were extremely intimidating with their huge faces and almost grumpy dissatisfied stares and 3 feet long bodies! That’s not even mentioning all the fur on them! However, after a few of these gentle giants, we have come to welcome and love this breed! If you have the chance to meet one, you will love them as well. Where Do Maine Coons Come From? Surprise surprise, yes, Maine Coon cats do come from the state of Maine. They’re actually the official cat of the great state. There are many interesting theories as to how they ended up in Maine (ranging from Vikings to Marie Antoinette). Originally used as mousers, these cats are bred to handle the great outdoors. They have thick 3-layered fur coats and gorgeous paws with lots of fur on the pads to handle snow and cold. Mice should be afraid of any cat in my opinion, but Maine Coon cats actually are not an aggressive breed. If anything, they are the opposite and super chill relaxed cats. The calm cool exterior is not an act and they tend to be very friendly and tolerant of pretty much anything. We bathe them drama-free, dry them with a large dryer and they simply lay there relaxing and enjoying the attention lavished on them. Even the clippers don’t bother them! What Do Maine Coons Look Like? The first cat to win a top cat show in the US back in 1895 was a Maine Coon. Their huge lion-like mane in the front is very regal and their large plume-like tails complete the look. They have medium to large heads with fascinating and expressive faces. My favorite part is the ears. The pointy tufts on the ears simply crack me up. There are also about 75 combinations of colors for them, so they can be quite diverse! Are Maine Coons Good Pets? Maine Coon cats are an excellent choice if you have children or other cats, even dogs. They are warm, friendly and very adjustable. One might even say they behave more like dogs than cats. They love to play and can be trained to fetch balls and other activities. These cats are very smart and catch on fast! Another wonderful trait is that they are quiet, meaning no loud yowling at 5 am as my siamese Maddie used to do! Maine Coons are more about the looks that intimidate than the sounds they can make so if you like quiet, they are perfect. How Do I Get a Maine Coon? I suggest finding a reliable breeder if you want a Maine Coon. However, they can be quite rare to find! One of my customers has been waiting almost a year now for a kitten, so have patience. Another customer here found a purebred at the local shelter so you never know what one will find up for adoption. As with any breed, do the research to make sure this breed will fit your situation and lifestyle as a cat is a commitment of about 15 years. Talk to your veterinarian about genetic issues or potential health issues for your chosen breed. Then be ready for the fur to fly around your house as Maine Coons have A LOT of fur and it gets everywhere. The fur can mat easily and daily brushing and grooming must be done to keep things under control. Maine Coon cats are a wonderful breed for many reasons and maybe they are purrfect for you. How To Choose A Cat To Blend Into Your Family
Once upon a time, a little stray tortoiseshell named Daphne walked up to my back porch and demanded entry. Those of you familiar with previous blogs will know that Daphne is now a dear member of my family. However, her introduction into my world was not Maddie’s, my other cat at the time, favorite thing. Maddie was your typical loud-mouth Siamese (and a complete drama queen) but this was different a much different sound than I was used to hearing from her. There was primal anger to that howl. I looked out my side door and there sat a kitten staring right into my house. Maddie was howling, about to throw herself through the glass door. Maddie had been the queen of her kingdom for 12 years and was not about to welcome a little stray in it without voicing her opinion. Long story short, it was a futile waste of energy over the next few weeks as this little tortoiseshell, now named Daphne Louise, worked her way into my heart. I had remembered that my vet told me years ago that when you introduce 2 cats, do so gradually. A glass door (or similar) is best to get them acquainted. Regardless, there are many other extra considerations to take into account and prepare for when adding a cat or kitten to an already established cat and their home. The Age Factor Daphne was maybe 6 months old when she was introduced to Maddie. The younger the cat, the easier it is for older cats to accept and welcome them. Perhaps if Daphne had been a tiny 6 week-old instead, it might’ve been easier but I’ll never know. Adding a fully mature or grown cat can be more challenging, but it’s not impossible. Several customers at the cat spa have successfully added older cats to their families. While the cohesion may take a bit longer, eventually the cats do cohabitate and tolerate each other just fine. Cats are incredibly territorial, hence Maddie going bonkers at the mere sight of a cat on the doorstep. Even now, Daphne will do the same when she sees a cat in the yard cutting through to the neighbors. Her one-acre kingdom and the next-door lot is hers and she intends to keep it that way! This ownership of their space is the same indoors and outdoors. Keep in mind that when some cats get territorial, they can mark and spray. Having the new addition and established cat spayed or neutered can help the temptation to compete and mark all over your house. Does Gender Matter? Gender really doesn’t matter when adding a new cat to the brood. Some research has shown that a male can be easier to accept, but that is not 100% confirmed, so don’t let that sway your choice. My 2 girls were just fine together and the hierarchy always happens immediately. The cats will decide who is in charge and who is along for the ride so boy or girl, pick the new cat that is right for you. If it is a stray who shows up, well then they made the decision for you. Take Into Account Each Cat’s History One main consideration to remember is how this new cat was raised – feral, in a home, shelter cat, indoor-only, outdoor only or a combination. All of these have their plusses and minuses and can alter the dynamics of your home. I had always had indoor cats. When Daphne came along she was an entirely new bag, as she had clearly been someone’s cat previously but also had to go outside. I was very uncomfortable with her being out so I spoke to my vet about it. She said that if a kitten becomes accustomed to being outdoors early in its development, there is sort of a switch that goes on and likely cannot be turned off. The cat will always want to go out. Prohibiting that can lead to stress and anger. Some cats will even shred doors and screens and jump out of windows to get outside. This was a new world for me to be the doorman for Daphne. I also was not used to the ‘presents’ she would bring me. Not every cat who is feral/stray will be an indoor/outdoor cat. Some will learn to love the indoors, so there are exceptions. A friend of mine has a feral cat who showed up and just keeps her distance but will not go outside at all. Perhaps she is simply smart enough to realize that she doesn’t need to hunt for food and shelter anymore. One caveat is that this lovely cat will never be a lap cat due to her upbringing. Take this into consideration, as it can be a learning experience with the different ways they were raised. What Should I Consider When Adding A Cat? Once Daphne decided that my home was going to be her home, there were some things to consider. You wouldn’t think adding one new cat would make a difference but it really does.
How To Safely Add a Cat To Your Family Now the new cat is here and you need to get the current cat to accept it. Then they will all live together in peace and harmony, right? Not so fast. There is a process that should take place to avoid unnecessary drama and feline unrest in your home. The main point my vet told me was to make the introduction gradual and to let them see each other (this is why glass doors are helpful!) in order for them to get used to each other. Opening the door and pushing them together and hoping for the best is NOT the way to go. This will most certainly cause headaches for everyone involved!
Adding a new kitten or cat to the mix can be fun and exciting, but it is important to take it slow and easy with both cats. Their personalities are unique, just like humans, so sometimes these new friendships just click and other times, they don’t. Following some tips and considerations can ease the stress and make the transition to a larger family all the more fun. Can a Feral Cat Become a House Cat?
Seven and a half years ago, little Daphne strolled up to me in my backyard and meowed at me, begging for food and water. She was extremely thin and dehydrated but followed me to the door and waited as I went inside to bring her some nourishment. The rest is history! I knew instantly from her behavior that she had been abandoned by some horrible person. It was easy to tell that she trusted humans and knew how to ask for help. I was so glad she found me so quickly, because who knows what could have happened to her living out in the elements by herself. Daphne was simply a stray cat and there is a huge difference between a stray and a feral. I often hear customers interchange the 2 terms so let’s discuss the vast differences and what to do if you find either one. How to Tell if A Cat is Feral Years ago, I was awakened to a guttural howling sound and went outside to look. I could see movement by the fence. There sat a tiny little kitten howling and crying. As I approached it, it went from adorable crying to a huge lion roar. That was not an abandoned little house kitten but a straight-up feral kitten who did not want to be around a human. She definitely did not want to be touched or assisted. I slowly backed away, as I did not want to confront this wild kitten. It was as wild as if I had found a baby kit (fox) or opossum. You can usually tell if a cat is feral if:
Feral kittens do have some potential to be rescued and turned into a domestic cat. The earlier this can happen, the better. Kittens need to be taken from a feral colony or mother around 4-6 weeks. Any earlier and there could be health or weaning issues. As with any unknown cat, be very careful to not be bitten or scratched. Feral cats can be particularly dangerous since you won’t know any health or disease history. If the cat is still present, it will have to go into quarantine until the health department has given an all-clear for rabies or other diseases. Adult feral cats are typically untameable and will stay wild and ferocious to humans. They have never interacted with humans and do not have the skill set to do so. Or the will to learn how. What To Do With a Feral Cat So what happens if a feral cat arrives under your porch to live?
All of these tactics require patience. You will not instantly see results. Even domesticated cats have a hard time adjusting to new people and places. One cat here at the spa took 2-3 weeks before she would stop growling, hissing and shaking her carrier. Eventually, she warmed up to us but still has her moments. Feral cats may be able to calm down somewhat around humans. However, you should never confuse them with a domesticated cat. Bottom line: feral cats are wild animals. Stray Cat Success Story Daphne was simply a stray cat that was once a person’s pet. She had learned how to properly interact with humans and live in a home. Stray cats are generally domestic cats that have been abandoned and tend to be friendly. But how can you tell? As with Daphne, they’ll approach you with their cute little head bumps, sniff you, maybe make that weird open mouth face, and of course, purr. Offering them food is an easy way to show they can trust you. I was warned “feed a stray and they’ll never go away” and I am proof that there is truth to that statement! The same is often true with ferals, but there is a limit. Feral cats are opportunistic. They’ll stay around while the food keeps coming, but they’re in survival mode. When the food stops, they aren’t sticking around to make friends. Feral cats are nearly impossible to groom. They are often prone to biting, hissing, growling and bloodshed. Caution should be used around attempting to even touch a feral and they really shouldn’t be adopted out. Many sweet domesticated cats need homes and are happy to have them. I’d personally recommend taking in these cats (who have been socialized) versus taking in a cat that is akin to a raccoon. Leave some food out and you never know, the sweetest cat ever may be hiding right in your backyard! 2021 will be full of new things, including our new Cat of the Month blog post series! Tune in each month to learn the ins and outs of popular breeds. We’re kicking off the year with Javanese, a cat bread known for its resemblance to the ever-popular Siamese. Now, I have a soft spot for any Siamese cat, so I’ve always found Javanese interesting and beautiful!
What is a Javanese Cat? This breed was created in the 1950s and is the trifecta mix of a Balinese, a Siamese and a colored shorthair. However, it is definitely considered part of the Balinese family. The name comes from the island of Java, located next to Bali. Around 35 years ago, the breed was considered a standalone. However, they were reassessed and placed back to the Balinese breed family. Sometimes they are referred to as an “oriental shorthair.” However, the body/fur color and eyes are different than the CFA (Cat Fanciers Association) registered breed for the oriental shorthair. What Do Javanese Cats Look Like? Since they are part Siamese, they have similar markings and characteristics which most people can usually point out very easily. The unique head shape and large ears are what makes this breed appear similar to Siamese cats. One striking characteristic is the coat color and markings. The colorpoints (face, ears, paws, tails) are typically lighter than the rest of the coat, which may be tortoiseshell, tabby, a combination torti-tabby or red. The super silky fur tends to be less than 2” long, lying very smoothly in a one coat layer. Single layer coats appear very silky and tend to shed less. This makes Javanese cats a good breed for someone who is usually allergic to cats. These coats are super easy to care for and maintain, meaning no mats or tangles. As with the Siamese, the gorgeous eyes will be that classic blue. Their bodies are also very Siamese-like with toned, muscular, lean bodies and the ability to jump high. One unique difference from the sleek Siamese is a fluffy tail. The tail is thick with longer fur than the rest of the body. In profile, these tails always reminds me of an ostrich plume! This tail may need to be brushed to keep any dust or debris from it as it is sure to be a dust catcher. Along the Siamese lines, the athletic body is small to medium in size and stature and these cats generally weigh anywhere between 5-10 lbs. What Kind of Behavior Can I Expect From A Javanese? These cats tend to have the loud Siamese yowl, but thankfully they’re not quite as loud or vocal as the typical Siamese. They are chatty cats and very smart and loyal. Having had several Siamese in my life, I understand the breed. One big aspect of the Siamese personality is loyalty. They tend to bond with their owner and can suffer from separation anxiety when apart. They love their owners and are protective. This makes any cats in the Siamese family less likely to do well when left along. If you’re planning on leaving your Siamese-type cat alone for more than 24 hours, I definitely recommend boarding them at a trustworthy facility. Before I started boarding my cats, I would come home to a hoarse cat from meowing too much or an anxious high strung scared kitty. I’ve learned my lesson if I ever have another Siamese! One other suggestion would be to have a playmate for your Siamese so they have someone to bond with besides you. This can be a great way to distract the cat from owner separation anxiety. Are Javanese Cats Healthy? The breed does not have any distinct health issues. They tend to live 15 years in a healthy indoor environment. Because they’re a rarer breed, it’s difficult to find them at a shelter, but you never know! I am always amazed at the stunning pure-bred cats that turn up in shelters. If you are set on this breed, one direct from a breeder is the best choice for a healthy animal. Make sure any breeder you’re considering has their CFA or TICA ( The International Cat Association) certification. The cleaner the blood lines, the more expensive they cat, but at least you know it will be healthy and exactly what you want! You should consider the Javanese if you...
I hope to add a Javanese to the cat spa guest registry one day and meet one in person! How To Choose Pet Insurance
Pet insurance is an important cost to consider for the safety of your pets and your wallet. Luckily, my cats have been low maintenance over the years and only really required the basic yearly visit. However, anyone with pets knows even the healthiest critter can get themselves in trouble with their own shenanigans. Unfortunately for us, on top of all that worry, the vet bill can end up costing thousands. For example, years ago my parents had a new bulldog puppy who managed to eat the popsicle and stick in one gulp. A few thousand dollars later for emergency surgery she was fine. However, most of us don’t have extra money set aside for catastrophes. This is where pet insurance may be the best choice. Cat owners may scoff at the idea of pet insurance, as surely everyone knows dogs cause more trouble. However, cats actually make up approximately 20% of animals covered by pet insurance. Policies can start at $15 a month, which can pay for itself if an emergency arises. After doing some research, I actually found that pet insurance is pretty simple and straightforward. Which is great news, since no one needs more complicated policies with health, homeowners or auto insurance already on everyones’ radar. Here are a few main touch points for you to know about pet insurance: What does pet insurance cover?
Who accepts pet insurance?Any licensed veterinarian can accept pet insurance. This is much nicer than human health insurance and worrying about in or out of network. With pet insurance, you pay the bill upfront, take the paperwork and submit it for reimbursement. How simple is that? Can I adjust my policy?As with any insurance, you can add a ‘rider’ for a special condition or treatment, such as physical therapy. Think of it as planning ahead. When should I get pet insurance?Same as humans, the younger you start the policy and continue it, the less it will cost. A new policy for a 10-year-old cat may be super pricey. Some policies may also come with an age limitation on a new policy for older animals. Does pet insurance have fees?As with human health insurance, there will be decutibles and copays. Deductibles typically begin at $10. There may also be annual caps on policies. Can I get pet insurance through my job?Some employers do have pet insurance available! So be sure to ask your insurance representative or HR rep what your employer offers. For more information about pet insurance, take a look at this easy guide from Money.com. If you’re thinking about getting pet insurance for your cat or dog, research several policies to find one that works best for you, your pet and your budget. A little monthly bill may end up saving you lots of money, so consider pet insurance for 2021. Happy holidays everyone! Feline Dental Care Download
Cats are similar to humans and need a basic dental visit at least once a year for their annual checkup. Dental care may not be at the top of your list, but having lost my beautiful Guenivere years ago to oral cancer from poor dental care, I am now very much aware of dental care for cats. Being aware of issues regarding their teeth and mouth could save their lives! So, let’s learn about feline dental care? What’s in a Cat’s Mouth? Adult cats have 30 teeth used to bite and to tear into all sorts of things. What they don’t have is a toothbrush and toothpaste to clean themselves up with morning and night. They rely on us to handle the basics. Dental issues can start quickly and rapidly progress. According to the Cornell University Feline Health Center, more than 50% of cats over age 4 have serious dental issues. In order to prevent these issues, it’s important to keep an eye on any discomfort your cat may be exhibiting. How to Tell if Something is Wrong So, how do you know if your cat has tooth pain? These symptoms can help you tell when there might be something wrong with your cat’s dental hygiene:
Now, cats are notorious for bad breath anyway but since they don’t brush, they get a pass on that! However, a difference or change in bad breath is a strong warning sign of something amiss. To avoid dental issues, basic care is required. How to Prevent Dental Issues In Your Cat Start with the basics! A yearly veterinarian check-up for your cat is necessary to look at teeth and discuss any problems. Almost any veterinarian is capable of basic teeth exams and cleaning. This can entail a set of X-rays, plaque removal and extraction of any diseased teeth. The main difference between human dental care and cat care is that cats must be sedated under general anesthesia for the procedure, which can be a little costly. Cats can have the same or very similar dental problems that humans have. Periodontal disease, gingivitis, and a cavity-like condition called tooth erosion. But, regular care can prevent these issues from the start. After losing Guinevere to oral cancer, I was extra vigilant when I first got Maddie. I spoke to my vet at her first check up on what to do. He advised that prevention is key and starting a kitten with good dental care is the best foundation. He also suggested brushing the kitten’s teeth! There are brushes that slip over the tip of your finger and use them to gently rub along the teeth and gum line. You can even get flavored toothpaste for cats to train them not to hate the experience! Starting young is key here, too. Another easy treatment is dental cat food. This one worked great for Maddie. She ate that food for over 10 years and her teeth sparkled! Dental cat foods have different sized and textured kibble that ‘clean’ the teeth as they eat it while stimulating gums and removing residue. If you aren’t keen on a full dental diet, there are some new brands of treats or snacks available now. Speaking to your vet and asking for recommendations is always the best thing. As for wet food, there is no hard evidence that wet food is linked to dental issues. There may be some advantages to dry food vs wet food for teeth but nothing definitive. Helping keep your cat’s fangs nice and shiny and clean is an easy way to help them live longer and healthier. Healthy teeth and gums are as important to them as us, so be proactive and take care of their teeth so they can keep on cuddling with you for many years to come. |
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