This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Cats love routines and are territorial creatures when it comes to their homes. As a result, they often get stressed when their environment changes in some way. Even slightly different sounds or smells can be upsetting. That is why when you go on a short vacation, it is best to leave your feline friend in the safety of its own home, if possible, instead of taking it with you on your trip or leaving it at a boarding facility.

The problem, of course, is finding someone to look after your little one in your absence. One option is a trusted cat-friendly neighbor or friend who can clean your cat’s litter, fill its water and food bowls, and shower your feline friend with the love and attention you would normally give it. But even if you have network of neighbors and friends ready to help out, there may be times when no one that your cat knows or trusts is available to help care for it. In those cases, you might need to engage the service of a pet sitter.

Most professional pet sitters will stop by at least twice a day to check on your cat and attend to its basic needs. Through training and experience, they should be quite adept at making friends with your feline, but having a new person in the house — coupled with the stress of your absence — could make your cat very uncomfortable.

As we all know, when your cat is stressed, bad behavior such as destroying furniture, inappropriate urination or defecation, and increased aggression become more likely. So it pays to try to prepare your cat beforehand for the pet sitter’s arrival. Here are some simple steps you can take:

• Before you leave, ask the pet sitter to stop by and meet your cat a few times with you present. He or she could offer some treats or play with your cat, which would help the cat identify “good” things with this new person coming over.
• Have the sitter feed and change your cat’s water with you around. Having the person go through the cat’s routine in your presence will make this experience less threatening to your fluffy friend. It will then seem like less of a change when it happens with you not around.
• If your cat is particularly skittish or afraid of strangers, have the pet sitter sit with you in a place where the cat can see both of you. Don’t try to force an introduction or pull your feline friend out of its hiding place. Instead, let your kitty come out and greet the stranger on its own time.
• Leave a piece of your clothing in the area where your cat sleeps. This will give your feline friend an added sense of security, making it feel more comfortable when you are gone.

If after all this, your cat is still very afraid of strangers, talk to your vet about other things that you can do to help your cat feel more secure when the pet sitter comes to look after it.

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Cats are creatures of habit and like predictability in their daily routines. As a result, they are easily upset about even the smallest changes in their life or environment. Obviously, the more abrupt the change, the harder it is for a cat to adjust.

Introducing a new baby into your household can be even more difficult for your cat than other big changes. For starters, a cat that did not grow up around small children may be spooked by the loud noises and unfamiliar smells. Subtler issues may also arise. For example, your feline friend will probably have gotten used to being your first “baby” and monopolizing your attention. Sharing time with another may be an unwelcome change that provokes “revenge” behavior.

• If possible, it is best to start preparing your cat before your baby arrives. To help prepare your cat for the new bundle of joy, try focusing on the following:
• Introducing your cat gradually to the new sights, sounds and smells that it will encounter when the baby arrives. If you have friends that have small children, it might help to have them bring their kids for more frequent visits.
• Start associating small rewards or treats with positive reactions to changes, thereby making them exciting instead of upsetting.
• Buying CDs that play “baby sounds” to get them accustomed to hearing all of the various noises babies make that can be frightening to your cat. Start playing them when your cat is eating or snuggling to get it used to the sounds throughout the day.
• Resisting the urge to pay extra attention to your cat before the baby’s due date. This will only lead to more disappointment when it has to share you with someone else. Instead, start setting aside specific time to be alone with your cat instead of showering your cat with affection throughout the day. Getting your feline friend used to this special time before the baby’s arrival and continuing it afterward will help your cat feel less neglected.
• Place Feliway diffusers throughout the house to help your cat feel secure and comfortable.
• Talking to your vet about other suggestions that will make the transition smoother.

If you are not able to prepare your cat before the baby’s arrival, don’t worry. It is not too late to help your cat get used to the new addition. Here are some things you can do after the baby has arrived:

• Continue to reward your cat for good behavior around the baby with small treats.
• Move anything that your cat likes (furniture, blankets, etc.) out of the baby’s room if you decide that that space is off-limits to your feline friend.
• Arrange perches in higher areas around the house to which your cat can retreat when it wants to be out of your baby’s reach.
• Make sure the litter box is in a quiet and private location.

No matter what you do, the most important thing to remember is that your cat needs to feel loved and will need some of your attention to. With preparation and patience, your furry family can help you welcome the newest member with enough love to go around.

For more information please read these tips from the ASPCA and the Humane Society.

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Some owners choose to have their cat declawed to protect their furniture, other cats in the house or even the hands of any humans sharing the space.

Declawing may sound like a simple and straightforward procedure, but in reality it’s not. It’s actually an amputation of part of the cat’s toe bones and can be very painful. For this reason, many veterinarians do not recommend declawing unless there is a compelling reason why it is necessary. There are many nonsurgical methods of discouraging a cat from scratching or fighting and several nonsurgical ways to improve their behavior.

 Why do cats need their claws?

Claws are not a superfluous part of a cat’s body that can be removed without consequences. Cats are born with claws for a reason. Apart from the most obvious reason — self-defense — claws are an important part of a feline’s anatomy. Unlike us, cats don’t walk on the soles of their feet. They are “digitigrade,” meaning that they walk on their toes. As a result, their entire bodies are designed so that their joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments distribute weight across the toes. Removing the claws and tips of the cat’s toes can upset this delicate balance.

Additionally cats use their claws for exercise and stretching. When their muscles are stiff, cats will often use their claws as an anchor to stretch their back, legs and neck. Without its claws, this becomes much more difficult and less effective.

What happens during a declawing surgery?

A cat’s toe has three bones. During the declawing process, the veterinarian traditionally amputates a section of the last bone, in which the growth plate and the nail are embedded. The surgery can be done with a scalpel or a surgical laser. A surgical laser, or CO2 laser, is the preferred method because it offers cleaner incisions, less inflammation, and less recovery time. After the removal of the bone, the incision sites are closed with the help of surgical skin adhesives or absorbable sutures. Your vet will also typically prescribe oral antibiotics and pain medication for at least 5-7 days after the surgery.

 When is declawing advised?

Your vet will normally only recommend declawing in cases in which it is medically necessary like severe nail infections or tumors.

What are possible alternatives to declawing?

One of the most effective options is consulting with an animal behaviorist, which your vet can recommend. Behaviorists can offer a great point of view and simple home modifications that can help curb your cat’s scratching behavior. By conducting an overall view of your cat’s home life, they are able to see problem areas that may be causing the negative behavior like lack of environmental stimulation. While the answers are certainly not always this simple, having a consultation with a behaviorist can be a great start to understanding your cat’s needs. Read More

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

External ear canal or outer ear infections are more common in dogs than cats, but your feline friends can also get them. These infections, which are also called otitis externa, are usually caused by bacteria and yeast that accumulates in the ear. They can also result from an infestation of ear mites. Ear mites tend to encourage the development of secondary infections due to bacteria or yeast in the ear canal. Those infections tend to linger even after the mites have gone.

Symptoms of ear infections

The first thing to look at is what your cat is doing with its head. Because ear canals are extremely sensitive, ear infections can cause your cat pain and discomfort. As a result, many cats suffering from ear infections will shake their heads or scratch their ears in an attempt to remove debris or fluid from the ear canal. Some cats might also tilt their heads to one side.

If you notice your cat exhibiting any of these behaviors, make sure to take a look at your cat’s ears. An infected ear may become red and inflamed, and emit a strong odor. You may also observe black or yellow discharge. Sometimes the ear may appear dirty, or there may even be no obvious signs.

Infections caused by ear mites generally show similar symptoms, so it is important to note that ear mite infestation is more common in outdoor cats or kittens. If your indoor adult cat develops an ear infection shortly after a new kitten has joined the household, ear mites may be the cause.

 Diagnosing ear infections

Always take your cat to the vet when you notice any potential signs of an ear infection before cleaning your cat’s ears on your own. Not only will your vet need to see the debris or discharge in your cat’s ear to determine what’s wrong, but you may accidentally cause more harm than good.

First, the vet will examine your cat’s ear with an otoscope, which is an instrument that magnifies and illuminates the inside of the ear. It lets your vet see into the ear canal and rule out other potential causes like tumors and foreign bodies. It also determines whether the eardrum is still intact. When there is excessive debris, discharge or inflammation in the ear canal, or the ear is very painful to touch, your vet might perform a sedated exam and take a sample of the material from the ear canal. It is then examined under a microscope or by ear cytology.

Treating ear infections

Nearly all ear infections can be treated and cured if properly diagnosed. The specific treatment, however, depends entirely on the infection’s cause. For example, if it is the result of a foreign body in the ear canal, your vet can remove it from your cat under sedation.

If the infection is due to yeast or bacteria, your vet may prescribe medication or drops depending on the results of the exam or diagnostic work up. Once your vet identifies the right medication or treatment plan, he or she can show you how to administer the medication properly to your cat.

In some cases, the infection may be so severe that it has closed the ear canal. Medication may be given to reduce the swelling and open the canal. In the severest of cases, surgery may be required. But those instances are fortunately rare.

For more information please visit our Feline Health Library.

 

 

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

One of the specific things your veterinarian checks for during routine examinations is whether or not a heart murmur is present. Heart murmurs can happen in any cat at any age, but are particularly common in certain breeds. While it can be alarming to learn that your cat has a heart murmur, not all are dangerous. Cats with more severe murmurs can be managed with good care and with the help of a cardiologist.

What is a heart murmur?

A heart murmur occurs when there is turbulence in the blood as it flows through the heart. It can be heard as a whooshing sound that occurs during the normal heartbeat cycle.

The louder the murmur, the greater the turbulence in the blood passing through in the heart. However, the murmur’s loudness does not always correlate with the severity of the condition or its cause.

Heart murmurs are graded on a scale of I-VI in accordance with their intensity. Grade I murmurs are very soft and quiet, and those of Grade VI are so loud that they can often be felt through the cat’s the chest.

Murmurs are also characterized by their duration and where in the heart cycle they occur. The location also plays a role in determining the volume. Most of the feline murmurs occur during systole, which is the phase of the heart cycle when the heart is contracting to pump out blood.

What kinds of murmurs are there?

There are several different types of murmurs. Some are “innocent” or “physiological,” whereas others are classified as pathologic. An innocent or physiological heart murmur generally has no impact on the cat’s health. It typically has a low intensity, such as Grade I-II out of VI, and does not cause any symptoms or clinical signs. Pathologic murmurs are stronger and tend to affect your cat’s overall health.

Different murmurs are caused by a variety of underlying conditions. For example, a type of innocent feline murmur is often found in young, growing kittens initially appearing around six to eight 8 weeks of age, but typically disappearing by four or five months. Some adult cats can exhibit a physiological murmur when their heart rate increases due to stress and then disappears when the heart rate returns to normal.

Pathologic murmurs often occur because of structural problems in the heart like cardiac disease. These murmurs interrupt or disturb the flow of blood, thereby creating turbulence. Examples of such defects may include a leaky heart valve, a thickening or narrowing of a valve or large blood vessel, or an abnormal hole between the heart chambers. Pathologic murmurs can also be caused by issues that are “extra cardiac” or unrelated to heart disease such as anemia, hypoproteinemia and fevers. Some structural heart problems can be congenital like ventricular septal defects (VSD) or atrial septal defect (ASD). The most common type of acquired heart disease in cats is cardiomyopathy, or weakening of the heart muscle.

How dangerous is a heart murmur?

The prognosis depends entirely on the cause and severity of the murmur. In some cases, especially for innocent or physiological murmurs, no treatment other than monitoring is necessary.

Pathologic murmurs are a greater cause for concern, and the first step is detecting them. Structural or extra cardiac problems are usually accompanied by symptoms caused by the disease. The most common signs include poor appetite, weight loss, breathing problems, pale gums, lethargy or weakness. Because cats are stoic, though, these symptoms may be subtle until the disease advances. It is crucial to have your cat’s heart checked annually at physical exams to catch any potential underlying murmurs or heart disease.

If your vet does detect an abnormal heartbeat or a weak pulse, further diagnostic testing will likely be necessary to determine a treatment plan. Typically a referral to a veterinary cardiologist for further exam and testing like an echocardiogram is needed. The echocardiogram determines the size and movement of the heart while beating, and the Doppler measures the blood flow. Regular monitoring throughout your cat’s life is essential after a heart murmur or heart disease diagnosis. But with the right care and treatment, your furry feline can live a happy and healthy life.

For more information please visit our Feline Health Library.

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Like humans, cats can pick up a wide array of infectious diseases that can range from minor colds to potentially fatal illnesses. Unfortunately, those infections can be spread just as easily in cats as human illnesses can in people. For example, infectious diseases can be transmitted from a mother to her kitten, through bite wounds, by sharing a litterbox, or even from sneezing or coughing.

One of the more worrisome infectious diseases that we tend to hear about is the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus or FIV. As its name suggests, it is a virus that is closely related to the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). By understanding the risk factors for infections and how to treat an infected cat, FIV cats can live happy lives.

What is FIV? 

Like HIV, FIV is a virus that lives in a cat’s body for its entire life. However, though it is similar in nature to HIV, FIV only affects cats and cannot be transmitted to humans. It’s also still relatively rare. Only about 1 to 5 percent of cats in the U.S. have it.

FIV is a serious matter, but it is not always a death sentence for a cat that gets infected. FIV-positive cats do not always develop feline AIDS, and many are asymptomatic for more than five years after infection.

What cats are at risk?

Because the most common method of transmission is via saliva in bite wounds, outdoor cats that may get into fights are at higher risk than their counterparts who remain indoors. Obviously, kittens whose mothers are infected are likely to become FIV-positive as well.

How is FIV diagnosed?

 Your veterinarian will take a blood sample and run an FIV test. Like a human HIV test, this will detect the presence of FIV antibodies. The most common test that vets use is called ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay).

Though the use of ELISA is an industry standard, please be aware that false positives and negatives are fairly common. For example, your cat might test positive for FIV if it has been recently vaccinated against the virus. The test cannot differentiate between antibodies produced by the vaccine and those that come from the virus itself. Similarly, kittens with an infected mother might absorb the antibodies but not the virus through breast milk and that can result in a false positive. For this reason, kittens younger than four months who test positive should be retested at the age of six months, by which time the maternal antibodies should have disappeared. On the flip side, some cats that have been recently infected test negative because it can take up to eight weeks for a cat to develop antibodies to FIV. Read More

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Feline asthma affects about 1 percent of cats between the ages of 2 and 8. Though Siamese cats may be slightly more susceptible to developing the condition, it can appear in any breed. Overweight felines are at greater risk. As with bronchial asthma found in humans, feline asthma is characterized by hypersensitivity to environmental allergens. For example, seasonal allergies may exacerbate asthma in cats that have the condition. There are a number of things that can trigger feline asthma. They include:

• Pollens or mold, house dust mites, and dander from pets or people
• Inhaled debris or external irritants such as cat litter dust, cigarette smoke, carpet cleaners or scented laundry detergents
• Viruses and bacteria
• Parasites such as heartworms and lungworms

Clinical signs of asthma The most common symptom to look for is coughing. Cats are excellent at vomiting, so as an owner, if you see something that looks like your cat is trying to vomit, but doesn’t produce anything, it’s probably a cough. When coughing, your cat may also assume a squatting position with its neck extended. The next sign to watch for is respiratory distress, which includes difficulty breathing, shortness of breath and open-mouthed breathing. You may be able to hear wheezing, but not necessarily. If you suspect that your cat may have breathing troubles, ask your vet to check. He or she can easily hear any wheezing with the stethoscope. If you notice open-mouthed breathing, take your cat to your vet or a 24-hour veterinary center immediately. Asthma attacks can be fatal to cats! Diagnosing asthma Your vet will first run diagnostic tests that could include comprehensive lab work, feline heartworm test, a fecal exam and urinalysis. These tests can assess your cat’s general health and show if there are any other potential causes of the clinical signs, including feline leukemia or feline immunodeficiency. The presence of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, is associated with allergies or parasitic diseases. Higher levels of eosinophils can support a tentative diagnosis of asthma. Your vet might also take a chest x-ray to determine if there are any changes in the lungs due to asthma or any other respiratory or cardiac diseases. If necessary, a fecal exam on your cat’s stool may be required to rule out lungworms, which can cause asthma like symptoms. Occasionally, there will be no clear cause of the breathing difficulties despite extensive diagnostic testing. In these cases, additional specialized testing may be necessary including a bronchoscopy, cytology and/or tracheal lavage. The bronchoscopy allows the vet to look into your anesthetized cat’s airways with a small fiberotic scope. The cytology exam looks at mucus samples from the cat’s bronchi. In a tracheal lavage, a small amount of saline is flushed into the airways and retrieved, bringing a small sample of material from the lung in the process. Treatment of asthma There are several options for treating feline asthma. For any cat with asthma, it’s helpful to understand what triggers or aggravates your cat’s airways and causes an attack so you can reduce your cat’s exposure to those triggers. In some cases, it might be as simple as changing the brand of litter you buy, not smoking in your home or limiting your cat’s time outdoors. Part of your cat’s maintenance plan will likely include corticosteroids. They are effective in decreasing the production of mucus and inflammation, and help to open up your cat’s airways. Unfortunately, corticosteroids have some side effects and should not be given or stopped without consulting your veterinarian first. Additionally, many feline asthma patients, just like humans, need some variation of a bronchodilator. These drugs open up the airway quickly and allow your cat to breathe more freely, especially during an attack. Adaptors that fit on the end of the inhaler can be purchased to help you give it more effectively. Additionally your vet can help train you on proper administration. In serious cases that require hospitalization or in an emergency situation during a severe asthma attack, your cat will likely be given a combination of bronchodilators, oxygen cage therapy, fast-acting glucocorticoids and/or epinephrine. For more information please visit our Feline Health Library.

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Hyperthyroidism, a disorder that frequently affects middle age to senior cats, is marked by the overproduction of the T4, or thyroid hormone. As with any condition that causes an over or underproduction of hormones, hyperthyroidism can cause a number of problems. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatment options that either treat or even cure your cat’s hyperthyroidism.

If left untreated, hyperthyroidism can cause a variety of problems. First, the enlargement of the thyroid gland can result in a malignant tumor. Fortunately, this happens in only 2 percent of cats with hyperthyroidism. Second, hyperthyroidism causes the cat’s heart to beat faster and more forcefully, which can lead to enlargement of the heart, thyrotoxic cardiomyopathy, or high blood pressure. About 25% of cats with hyperthyroidism subsequently develop high blood pressure.

What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?

Weight loss, despite increased appetite and food intake, is the most common indicator of hyperthyroidism. Approximately 98 percent of cats with the condition show weight loss. Be aware, however, that some cats lose weight suddenly, while others do so gradually. In the latter cases, it is possible that you will not immediately notice what is happening.

Other symptoms include excessive thirst, urination, and unkempt fur. In about 50 percent of cats affected by hyperthyroidism, vomiting and diarrhea occur.

How is hyperthyroidism diagnosed?

The first step is to have your cat examined by your veterinarian to check for weight loss, condition of fur, and overall health. Additionally a full panel of blood work including a measure of the total thyroxine (TT4) and a urinalysis should be pulled to aid in diagnosis since many of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism are similar to other diseases.

In most cases of hyperthyroidism, the amount of this thyroid hormone is so large that diagnosis is straightforward. In some cases, though, the TT4 levels may come back as borderline normal. When that happens, your vet will perform either a Free T4 by Equilibrium Dialysis (FT4 by ED) or a T3 suppression test. If even those do not result in a clear diagnosis, your vet might suggest performing a thyroid scan or measuring the TT4 after a few weeks.

How is hyperthyroidism treated?

There are three possible ways of treating this condition. You and your vet can determine which one is right for your cat after doing a full evaluation of its health, lifestyle, and your budget. Once hyperthyroidism is initially diagnosed, additional tests may be needed depending on the general health of your cat like chest x-rays, ECG, and/or blood pressure check. Your vet might also recommend a cardiac ultrasound or echocardiogram if there is any concern that the heart has been affected. Read More

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Though cats can generally live longer than other household pets, they actually age at a faster pace than their human companions. By the age of 8, a feline is already a senior citizen, meaning that a cat that lives to 20 or older will spend more than half of its life as an “elderly” member of your family. Geriatric cats, age 15 and older, can live quality years with a little extra care in their health care routine both at the vet’s office and at home.

Your vet may start by recommending that your cat undergo basic geriatric wellness testing as part of its regular checkups. This is designed to detect signs of early or subclinical diseases in what may otherwise appear to be a healthy cat. Senior cats, ages 8 to 14, need preventative exams once every six months, or twice a year. Cats that are 15 and older are considered geriatric and ideally need exams once every three months, or four times a year.

Geriatric wellness exams can include the following: lab work (including a biochemistry, complete blood count or CBC, urinalysis, and thyroid check), pain assessment, dental check, and general exam to look for overall health and changes in mobility.

Blood work: Blood work is potentially the most important part of your geriatric cat’s health care routine. It provides an overall view of your cat’s general health and function, and it can help detect diseases before they are outwardly apparent symptomatically.

• Biochemistry profile: This provides information about how well various internal organs are working. The biochemistry profile helps identify metabolic diseases and other illnesses, including liver and kidney functions, pancreatitis, diabetes, etc.
• CBC: This describes the number, shape and size of the various cells in the cat’s blood. It also shows if there are any anomalies. This test is comprehensive and measures both the white blood cells that fight infections and the red blood cells that transport oxygen through the body.
• Thyroid function and hormone testing: This ensures that the cat’s thyroid is producing hormones normally. As in humans, the hormones produced by this gland are vital to a cat’s health. If the thyroid produces too much, it can lead to hyperthyroidism, which can strain the heart if left untreated.
• Urinalysis: This examines the chemical components and solid materials present in the cat’s urine. With this test, your vet will also be able to evaluate the cat’s overall kidney function. He or she can also assess whether there are infections or inflammations of the urinary tract or kidneys. Because kidney disease is extremely common in older cats, make sure to have this done regularly as your cat ages.

General Health Exam and Pain Assessment: Routine pain assessments are an important part of your senior or geriatric cat’s health care plan. Arthritis and other joint disease can cause stiffness and changes in mobility. If your geriatric cat develops joint disease, there are different ways to increase their quality of life by making simple lifestyle changes for them. Some changes that can help include:

• Moving the litter box to an easier location
• Placing bedding, litter box, and food and water access to the same level in your house if you have stairs.
• Buying a litter box with a low rim so your cat doesn’t have to step up as high
• Joint supplements
• Acupuncture and laser therapy are non-invasive ways to provide relief from joint pain. Acupuncture uses tiny needles to stimulate healing by normalizing nerve function and circulation. It can help pain, stiffness, and even increase a cat’s mobility and energy level. Laser therapy uses a beam of laser light to penetrate tissue deeply without damaging it. The laser energy induces a biological response in certain cells leading to increased healing, and decreased pain and inflammation. Read More

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Disaster can strike at any moment, and it’s important to develop an emergency evacuation plan and kit in case of flood, fire, tornado, hurricane or other disasters for you and your family. As you prepare your emergency plans, don’t forget to include your furry felines as well! It’s important to have a location planned out and a disaster preparedness kit ready to go in the event of an emergency to keep your family and furry friends safe.

Due to local and state regulations, evacuation shelters often cannot take pets when families in the surrounding area are evacuated from their homes, with the exception of service animals. Make sure to have a list with phone numbers and directions of any shelters that will accept pets during emergencies, any surrounding hotels that will house pets, any family members or friends outside the area that would be willing to house you and your pets, and any boarding facilities.  Frequently when emergency shelters do allow pets, they need to be housed in a crate, so you’ll want to be sure to have a crate large enough to fit your cat, a litter box, and food/water.

Next, you’ll want to have a disaster preparedness kit for your pets. The kit should include the following items stored in waterproof pouches or bags:

• Prepared list of pet friendly evacuation locations with phone numbers and directions
• Complete medical and vaccination records, including current microchip numbers (if applicable)
• Any medications that your cat is taking and a prescription from your veterinarian in case your evacuation goes on longer than anticipated (including any prescription diets) Read More

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Cats experience pain like all other animals, but the signs that they are hurting are much harder to detect. It can be frustrating and disheartening as a cat owner, to suddenly find out that your furry friend not wanting to climb the stairs anymore was actually due to painful arthritis. But by learning some of the more subtle signs of pain in felines, you’ll be able to notice the symptoms sooner and help your cat even more.

There’s actually an evolutionary answer to why cats hide their pain so well. As solitary animals, cats try to conceal their injuries. In the wild, cats that show obvious signs of pain are more likely to become another predator’s prey, so the species has developed a stoic approach in the face of pain as an evolutionary advantage.

To ensure we don’t miss these subtle signs of pain, it is crucial to notice even minor changes in your cat’s routine or behavior. For example, a cat might suddenly refuse to jump onto favorite spots like the windowsill or similarly, some cats will suddenly stay on the ground floor and not climb stairs. It might be due to pain or discomfort. Additionally, the American Animal Hospital Association recommends pain assessments at every physical exam, whether it’s for annual wellness or a sick visit, to make sure your furry family member isn’t in any discomfort.

The following is a list of potential indicators that your cat may be in pain. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and that these symptoms may indicate other issues! Each cat is a little different, and yours may have his or her own way of letting you know that something is off. Always contact your veterinarian if you feel your cat is in pain.

• Changes in demeanor. If your cat is generally noisy, it may suddenly become quiet. Likewise, if your cat is not generally talkative, it might become vocal. Normally docile and friendly cats may become more aggressive, hissing or scratching when approached or handled.
• Excessive sleeping
• Soiling outside the litter box. This could be an indication that your cat is having pain when stepping in and out of the litter box.
• Lack of appetite. Cats that are hurting will often stop eating.
• Hiding. If your cat is suddenly missing for long stretches of time or you find them hiding in places they don’t normally spend much time, it could be an indication that something is wrong.
• Decreased grooming OR increased grooming. Keep an eye out for new bald spots that develop, especially on the stomach.
• Sitting hunched with back arched, paws gathered under the body, nose resting on the floor, and eyes closed. This is known as the “meatloaf” position.
• Purring when not receiving any positive stimulus. Cats don’t just purr when they are happy. They also do so when they are scared, and some purr to comfort themselves when they hurt.
• Distant or faraway look in the cat’s eyes
• Resisting handling or being picked up
• Stiffness or limping
• Any unusual or strange changes in behavior

Remember, you know your cat best, so if you think something is wrong or seems off, contact your veterinarian for an appointment. Prior to the appointment, make sure to observe your cat’s behavior carefully so that you can describe the symptoms accurately. A log or journal tracking the frequency of worrisome behaviors is very useful so that your vet can help identify the problem faster and pinpoint when it started.

For more information, please visit our Feline Health Library or the American Animal Hospital Association’s website.

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Dental disease is one of the most common ailments that affect cats. About two-thirds of felines older than three have it in some form or another ranging from mild tartar build up to resorptive lesions.

What causes dental diseases?

Many dental diseases are the result of tartar buildup on a cat’s teeth. Tartar can be easily identified by its tan or brown color. As a cat eats, some of the food gets stuck to its teeth and turns into plaque. Though some of that is removed naturally when the cat eats or licks its teeth, the remainder quickly mineralizes and becomes tartar and calculus. If the tartar is left untreated it can lead to gingivitis or inflammation of the gums.

Gingivitis normally starts at the edge of the gum. In some of the most severe cases, it can end up covering the entire tooth. The disease may cause inflammation or infection of the bone and ligaments that support the tooth. And as it progresses, it can cause destruction of the tissue, leading to excessive tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss. If left untreated for a longer period of time, gingivitis can lead to irreversible periodontal disease or the formation of an abscess.

One of the most common dental issues in cats is the feline oral resorptive lesion (FORL). While we aren’t sure what causes them, we do know they are usually found in cats older than four and on the outside of the surface of the tooth where the gum meets the tooth surface. FORLS erode the outside of the tooth causing increased pain and sensitivity. Unfortunately, FORLS are degenerative and often require tooth extraction for the affected area.

What are the classic signs of dental diseases in cats?

• Chewing with obvious discomfort
• Dropping food from its mouth
• Excessive drooling
• Very bad breath
• Pawing at its mouth

While these are the more obvious and severe symptoms of dental disease, sometimes more subtle behaviors like sleeping more, being less active, and even weight loss can be side effects of dental problems. Any time you feel your cat is just not his/herself, contact your veterinarian for exam.

Many cats will refuse to eat dry kibble or even wet food when they are suffering from dental discomfort or pain. If your cat suddenly develops a finicky appetite, this may be a sign that it has dental problems.

What can you do to help your cat?

If you see that your cat has tartar, redness around its gums or any signs of pain or discomfort, take it to your veterinarian for an examination. Treatment usually consists of dental cleanings under general anesthesia followed by home care such as brushing your cat’s teeth or feeding Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) certified treats or diets.

How can you prevent dental disease?

The best way to prevent dental disease is by practicing good oral hygiene and reducing tartar buildup on your cat’s teeth. Regular dental exams and cleanings at your veterinarian, brushing your cat’s teeth and feeding VOHC approved treats are the best ways to keep your cat’s teeth healthy.

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This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Every cat lover, at one point or another, has dealt with kitty scratches or even the dreaded cat bite. While typically scratches aren’t cause for concern, cat bites are a different story. Even playful “love bites” can lead to serious infections when they break the skin, even when it’s your own cat. All bites, no matter the cat’s history or vaccination status require medical attention. So what is it that makes cat bites so serious?

Because cats have extremely sharp teeth, their bites penetrate the skin easily and cause small but deep wounds. The bites can even be so deep that they damage a victim’s nerves, tendons and bones. Additionally, these deep almost pin prick like wounds allow bacteria that is trapped in the cat’s mouth to travel to joints and tendons harboring infection.

Why happens if a cat bite is left untreated?

Infection rates are higher in bites left untreated. The surface lesion from a cat bite generally scabs over quickly, sealing bacteria from the cat’s mouth inside the wound, where it can multiply and lead to an infection. Depending on the location and depth of the bite, the bacteria may even spread to the surrounding tissue, resulting in a condition called cellulitis. And in some cases, the bacteria can spread through the blood to other areas of the body and cause septicemia or blood poisoning.

What are the first steps you need to take when a cat bites you?

You should wash out the wound under running water immediately. Don’t use strong disinfectants, as these may delay the healing process. A better way to sterilize the wound is by using a mild salt water solution made up of one teaspoon of salt and 500 ml of water.

If there is excessive bleeding after washing out the wound, apply direct pressure to it and seek immediate medical attention.

Infections caused by cat bites usually develop between 24 and 48 hours after the bite if it is left untreated. An infected bite will be red, swollen and painful. Minor infections will generally require a course of oral antibiotics, whereas more serious cases will be treated with an IV drip. Be especially cautious of bites near joints, especially in your fingers as these tend to swell more.

Regardless of the severity or consequences of the bite, make sure to call your general physician or visit the emergency room as soon as possible! Please don’t wait to call the doctor if you have been bitten by a cat!

What will happen to the cat?

In most states, the physician is required to report the cat bite to the local department of health. If the cat’s vaccinations are up-to-date, it might be placed under a home quarantine for a week. If its rabies vaccination is not current, the quarantine period will be even longer or may require additional precautions. Make sure to look up your state and local county’s laws regarding cat bites and quarantines for more specific information.

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Feral cats and colonies have long earned a bad reputation among communities and media, but with the help of advocacy groups like Alley Cat Allies, things are changing. Programs like Trap-Neuter-Return are helping to extend the lives and wellbeing of feral colonies throughout the area and educating communities about feral cat care at the same time.

So what exactly is a feral cat?

Feral cats are domestic cats that are not socialized to humans and therefore typically not adoptable. They often live together in groups called colonies that have their own social bonds and structure.

You may frequently see feral cats in your neighborhood or out in your community. While many people see them as a hazard or nuisance, there are easy steps you can take to redirect outdoor cats away from your yard that don’t involve calling Animal Control. Feral cats that are picked up by Animal Control are not able to find homes, which unfortunately can lead to euthanasia, but with programs like Trap-Neuter-Return, they can lead healthy full lives outdoors.

Here are some steps to try if you would like to deter outdoor cats from your yard that are safe and effective as recommended by Alley Cat Allies :

• Keep a tight lid on your trash can
• Scatter the immediate area with fresh orange and lemon peels, coffee grounds, vinegar, or oil of lavender, lemongrass, citronella, or eucalyptus
• Use Cat Scat– a non-chemical repellent that uses plastic mats with flexible plastic spikes to deter wildlife and cats from digging
• Install a motion activated water sprinkler or ultrasonic animal repellent

So what do you do if you want to help a feral cat or colony in your community?

• Be an advocate! Help educate your neighbors on how to safely deter them from their yard or how they can help without calling the local animal control
• Start feeding — make sure you feed at the same time of day in the same area and only enough food for them to finish in one sitting. Make sure you remove the food after 30 minutes.
• Provide an outdoor shelter
• Trap-Neuter-Return — Use a drop trap to safely catch the cat and then work with a veterinary practice, like Just Cats Clinic, that is comfortable working with ferals to spay/neuter, vaccinate, and then you can safely return the cat outdoors. Trap-Neuter-Return is the most effective and humane way to help stabilize and care for feral cat populations.

Remember, if you have never worked with caring for a feral colony or cat before, contact Alley Cat Allies or similar organization or even your local veterinarian for tips to ensure your safety and the cat’s. For additional information and helpful resources, visit Alley Cat Allies at www.alleycatallies.org. 

 

This is a sponsored post by veterinarian Elizabeth Arguelles, owner of Just Cats Clinic at Lake Anne Plaza. She writes weekly on Reston Now.

Every cat needs some form of identification, even indoor-only felines.

The most common reason owners don’t microchip their cats is that they “never go outside. However, many lost felines are the result of an accident like slipping out the door.

Another important reason to microchip is disaster preparedness. In the event of a natural disaster, evacuation, or even a house fire, your cat may become scared and in their efforts to get away and hide, become lost. If you and your cat are evacuated to a shelter or have to stay in a hotel for a period of time, your cat may be more likely to be scared and potentially get lost in unfamiliar surroundings.

Cats that get picked up by Animal Control are nearly impossible to return to their parents if they lack identification, and microchipping is the best chance of seeing your cat returned to you.

The simplest and most comprehensive way to register your cat’s information is by implanting an identity microchip in the scruff of your feline’s neck. It carries its own unique number that will be registered in a database along with the owner’s address and contact information. So if your cat is ever lost and picked up by Animal Control, a rescue group, or even taken to a veterinarian’s office by a good samaritan, the first thing they will do is scan the cat for a microchip.

So what exactly is a microchip? And how is it inserted into your cat?

The microchip is an approximately rice-grain-sized “living-tissue-friendly” glass bead.

The chip is inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades. Implanting the microchip into your cat is done with a needle, similar to an injection. The needle is slightly larger than an injection needle, and the best time to do it is if your cat is already having sedation or general anesthesia for a procedure. However, a microchip can be inserted during a regular appointment and takes only a few seconds.

Unfortunately, microchip brands and scanners are not yet universal, and there are several different manufacturers. In the United States, the two most common chip companies are AVID and Home Again. Most animal control facilities, shelters, and veterinary offices are equipped with readers for both types, and it’s important to remember that no matter what brand of chip you use, you remember to register it with the most up to date contact information. Typically when your cat is microchipped, your vet’s office will either register the chip for you or provide you with a form to submit directly to the chip company.

Remember, if you adopt your cat from a rescue group or shelter, he or she may already have a microchip. If they do, make sure to find out what kind it is so you can contact the company and transfer ownership and contact information from the rescue group to you. Additionally, any time you move or change phone numbers, contact the microchip company and update the information!

While microchips are the safest and best way to ensure you are reunited with your pet if they are ever lost, it’s only as good as the information you registered.

Additionally, if you are traveling overseas with your cat, an ISO chip is the best microchip to use because it can be universally scanned. Many countries including those in the European Union and Australia will not allow pets in the country without microchips. Make sure to check your destination’s specific requirements as many countries, including those in the European Union, require not only a specific type of microchip, but a specific timeline of when the cat is chipped and when it receives its vaccinations.

Please contact your veterinarian for more information.