Caring for Your Cat’s Teeth

Fifteen years ago, on the day I picked up my first cat at the local shelter, the volunteer on duty handed me a paper grocery bag full of pet supplies.

“Here are some free samples,” she said, tossing the sack into the back of my car. “There’s some good stuff in there.”

When I got home I found, among the little pouches of kibble and pink fur mice, a tiny red toothbrush and a small tube of toothpaste, fish flavored. Soon afterward came my first lesson in feline dental hygiene, and as it turns out, cats don’t find fish toothpaste as enticing as you’d expect.

Regular Brushing

Although they don’t seem to appreciate it, brushing your cat’s teeth on a regular basis (veterinarians recommend two times a week) is one of the most important things you can do for their health. Brushing removes the plaque on your cat’s teeth that can become tartar—the dark, calcified substance accumulating along the gumline that causes both tooth decay and gum disease.

Besides being painful, decaying teeth and infected gums can cause a number of health problems in cats including kidney, liver and heart disease. Elevated levels of bacteria in a cat’s bloodstream can tax its immune system, making it more susceptible to illnesses and cancer.

Learning to brush your cat’s teeth effectively takes both patience and the right equipment. Be sure to use toothpaste meant for cats. Ingredients in human toothpaste can be toxic to their systems. Use a cat’s toothbrush as well. They are much smaller and softer than those meant for people.

The best way to brush a cat’s teeth is to place her on a table facing away from you. Lifting the cat’s jowls, gently rub the toothbrush along the gumline of her upper and lower teeth on both sides. You may need someone to help you the first few times you try this, but if you’re consistent your cat will get used to it, and soon it will become a routine event.

Food, Water and Treats

As a rule, dry cat food is better for your cat’s teeth than the canned variety, as it works to remove some of the build-up from their teeth as they chew. Several manufacturers also now make “dental diet” foods and treats which, if fed regularly, can help keep your cat’s teeth in good shape. Hill’s, Science Diet, and Friskies all currently make dental food products that are readily available at most grocery and pet stores.

Additives for your cat’s water are also available to help keep their teeth healthy. These help keep bacteria levels down in the cat’s mouth, as well as contain chemicals which fortify their teeth against decay, much the same way that fluoride in human drinking water does. Dental water additives for cats are available in most pet supply stores.

Home Oral Exams

Although your veterinarian will check your cat’s teeth during her annual examination it’s a good idea to check your cat’s mouth for problems more often. According to the animal care Web site PetEducation.com , 70% of cats show signs of gum disease by the time they are three-years-old.

Be on the lookout for things like swollen, red gums, especially “lumps” along the gumline which may indicate abscesses. Watch for broken, cracked or missing teeth, and keep an eye on teeth that may already be broken for signs of decay. Chronic bad breath is also a sign of trouble. If you find anything that seems problematic, call your veterinarian.

Doing oral exams on a regular basis becomes more important as your cat ages. Older cats tend to have more dental issues than younger ones, and the health repercussions of tooth decay in older cats are often more serious.

Professional Feline Dental Care

If you haven’t been brushing your cat’s teeth regularly (or at all) don’t worry. A veterinarian can clean your cat’s teeth in much the same way that your teeth are cleaned at the dentist. Your cat will be anesthetized and the veterinarian will use a sonic device, much like those used by human dentists, to remove the tartar build-up from your cat’s teeth. This treatment is very effective, removing tartar even from below the gumline.

Any rotten or broken teeth the vet finds will be removed, and a protective coating will be applied to the teeth. You may also be given an at-home treatment to apply. Depending on the extent of gum inflammation and/or tooth decay present prior to the cleaning you may also need to give your cat an antibiotic for a few days.

The recommended time frame for cats having a professional cleaning varies by individual animal. Ask your veterinarian how long you should wait between professional cleanings.

During a recent oral exam of my own cat, now age fifteen, I found a large abscess beneath her front gums, a problem that can arise in older cats in spite of a lifetime of brushing. The vet told me it was lucky that I’d found it. Had I waited another six months for her regular check up the infection may have caused irreparable health problems.

For all the joy and companionship your cat brings you, brushing her teeth, feeding her healthful foods, and performing periodic oral exams are simple, inexpensive ways to give her something in return. They’ll improve your own life, too, because they’re sure to help keep your feline friend around for a long time to come.

Long-haired Cats at home

Grooming Long-haired Cats at Home

While most people think of animal groomers as working primarily on dogs, there are a number of reasons you may want to consider for grooming thick or long haired cats. Cats are, to a great extent, self groomers. They lick themselves clean, in the process removing dead hair. However, there are a few reasons to help them out a bit, especially in the case of long or thick coated cats. Short haired cats may need help too, but different tools work better for them.

Reasons to groom

• Clean up matted hair
• Prevent hairballs
• Increase bond with cat
• Reduce shedding and allergens
• Practice for if/when kitty is too old to do it themselves

Tools needed for grooming cats with long hair

You will have to try different tools until you find what works best for your cat’s particular hair thickness and texture, but the following are good places to start:

• Comb
• Shedding comb
• Pin brush
• Slicker brush
• Coat spray (not aerosol!)

How to groom long haired cats

Some cats enjoy the grooming process, some do not. For the first session, I’d recommend keeping it short and pleasant, with as many treats as possible. It helps if you groom at a time when the cat is normally happy and relaxed. Have all your tools ready beforehand—even the most tolerant of cats is not going to wait around while you go and get the comb you forgot. You can either put the cat on a grooming table in front of you, or any table or counter with a towel or non-skid mat on it, or you can try to hold the kitty in your lap.

Nails First : You can buy cat nail trimmers, or use people nail trimmers—just make sure they are sharp. Remove only the curved part, just the tips. Cat nails are translucent, so even if they are not white you should be able to see where the quick (the blood supply) occurs in the nail. Make sure not to trim too close to the quick.

Brushing : Use a soft slicker brush and gently lift the coat up with your hand, brushing in layers from the skin out. Lightly spray the coat to reduce static, or spray the brush instead. Ring 5 Coat Gloss is my favorite, but there are several on the market that will work well. (Make sure whatever grooming spray you purchase is specifically labeled for cats—there are chemicals that are very harmful to cats that have no effect on dogs or humans).

Combing : Use a comb with medium spacing, or one with medium on one end and coarse on the other. Gently comb through, both checking to see if you have left any snags, and using the comb to remove excess undercoat. Be gentle. Combs with blunt ends or ones with rotating teeth may be effective while producing less tugging. The shedding comb, with uneven length teeth, is ideal for removing excess undercoat and some cats mind it less.

If your cat is upset by any portion of the grooming, change to doing something he didn’t mind for a few moments, or just pet him. Give him a treat and end the session. Next time work just a few moments longer before stopping. Before you know it you will both be enjoying your special time together.

*Note: If your cat is a show cat, the undercoat should not be removed, and there is a lot more to the grooming. Consult someone knowledgeable in your breed before grooming your show cat at home.

Heart Disease in Cats

Heart Disease in Cats

Are you ever amazed at how your cat acts like a person? If only we could protect our cats from developing the same diseases as people. Unfortunately, cats can develop diseases that are also common in humans, such as heart disease. Although treatments cannot reverse heart disease, your cat can live a relatively normal life. Aging is the most common reason cats develop a heart condition, but other factors like heartworm can also lead to heart disease.

If your cat exhibits the following symptoms, take her to your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis:

• A low-pitched cough that sometimes leads to gagging
• Breathing difficulties that include shortness of breath
• Reduced ability to exercise
• Noticeable weight gain or loss
• Swelling in the abdomen

These symptoms are common in other diseases, so it is important for your vet to check you cat for heart disease using some of these methods:

• A stethoscope exam can reveal murmurs and fluid in the lungs
• Palpation can reveal unusual pulses
• X-rays reveal heart enlargement
• An EKG can identify heart enlargement and irregular rhythms
• Blood and urine tests can reveal heartworms and the condition of other internal organs

Heart disease typically causes the heart to enlarge, and this enlargement causes a loss of efficiency. The heart then begins to hold more fluid than it should and this is where the real problems begin. For this reason, veterinarians recommend feeding cats a low-sodium food that will help reduce fluid build-up and make it easier for their heart to work effectively.

For an accurate diagnosis and treatment options, always consult your veterinarian.

Dental Disease in Cats

Dental Disease in Cats

Good dental health is important for your well-being, and it's very important for your cat's health, too.

Plaque, a colorless film on your cat's teeth, is the perpetrator of bad breath and gum disease. Because she doesn't brush her teeth like you do, this plaque can cause tartar buildup. The result is swelling, redness and inflammation of the gums - otherwise known as gingivitis. If not checked, your cat can develop periodontal disease, which can destroy the gums and tissue that support her teeth.

The condition is serious, but don't worry: dental disease is preventable and treatable in most cats. Ask your veterinarian for a complete oral checkup for your cat and schedule regular dental cleanings.

You can also help clean her teeth daily - just by feeding her. Normal dry pet food provides a dental benefit for your cat because when she crunches on the kibbles, the moderate scraping action cleans her teeth. If your cat has the more serious symptoms of gingivitis, specially formulated foods are available which can do a much better job of cleaning her teeth than normal dry food. Ask your veterinarian for help in selecting the best cat food for her.

To learn more about dental health in pets, visit PetDental.com, a Web site sponsored by Hill's and the American Veterinary Dental Society.

For an accurate diagnosis and treatment options, always consult your veterinarian.

Signs of a Healthy Cat

The well-toned upper body of a healthy cat will give the impression of supple strength, which in movement translates to speed, agility, and grace. To see a cat crouched down on the hunt for prey, and moving in a slow motion "crawl" is poetry in motion. His frame is aligned perfectly, and every muscle, tendon, and bone move in tandem.

The Muscular-Skeletal Structure of a Healthy Cat

Standing at rest, in profile, a healthy cat will look evenly balanced. His head will be held high, supported by his neck and strong shoulder muscles. His rib cage encloses and protects the heart, lungs, liver, and gall bladder. At a healthy weight, a cat's ribs may be felt, but are not prominently visual. The bone structure is covered and supported by a systems of muscles, ligaments, and tendons, which work together to give the healthy cat's limbs strength, mobility, and speed.

The Front Legs and Feet of a Healthy Cat

The front legs of a healthy cat are used for balance, running, climbing, and catching prey. The elbows are held close to the body while standing and thrust forward when walking. When a cat is stretching laterally or scratching a scratching post vertically, the front lets may be fully extended, forming an almost straight line.

Walking Pattern of a Healthy Cat

Unlike humans who walk on the heels and balls of our feet, cats walk on their toes with the "heel" never touching the ground, which makes them digitigrade mammals. Dogs and horses are also digitigrade mammals; animals who walk on the whole sole of the foot, including humans, rabbits, and bears, are called plantigrade mammals. Cats have a unique way of walking, by moving the front and back legs forward in parallel tandem, i.e., right front and right back leg forward, left front and left back leg forward. In the next step, the cat will place his left back foot in exactly the same place the left front foot just vacated. This is an instinctive protective measure, which leaves a much smaller and quieter track, making it harder for predators to scent and follow.

Cats' Front Toes and Claws

A healthy cat usually has ten toes in front. The exceptions are polydactyl cats, often called "Hemingway Cats," which have multiple toes. Cats' toes are very strong; they use them to grip and hold surfaces when climbing, to pull their body upward. A cat chasing a rubber ball (or a mouse) can easily catch it with his toes, then hold it by curling his toes and claws inward.

he cat's claws are an integral part of his feet. They are the original "multi-use tool," invaluable for climbing; capturing and killing prey; and for protection from predators and other enemies. A cat's claw consists of the sharp, visible nail portion, covered with a disposable sheath; connected to the P3 toe bone with ligaments and tendons. (See photo of drawing.) To keep his claws sharp, a cat scratches rough surfaces, such as trees, wood posts, sisal, and sometimes furniture or carpeting. The clawing does not actually sharpen the claw as much as dislodging the protective transparent sheath. You may occasionally find these abandoned sheaths on the floor.

Cases in Cats

Documented H1N1 Cases in Cats

Ever since the WHO (World Health Organization) classified the H1N1 virus as a pandemic in June of 2009, fear compounded by misinformation have ensued. Even the name, "swine flu," is a misnomer, as the H1N1 virus, although similar, is not the same virus responsible for the swine flu in North America.

At first, it was thought that the H1N1 virus could not be transmitted to cats by humans. However, since the discovery of a documented case of a cat in Iowa contracting swine flu from human family members, and a second cat confirmed with the virus, this time in Park City, UT, renewed speculation has ensued. Although the knowledge of H1N1 is evolving every day, this article will answer questions as they arise and will be updated as needed.

What Exactly is This Flu?

The 2009 H1N1 has gone through several different names, and now, it appears to be composed of "pieces" of several different virus sources, according to the CDC as reported by the AVMA. The CDC has adopted the official name of "2009 H1N1 flu."

Question: How is the H1N1 Virus Transmitted?

Answer: The H1N1 virus can be caught by inhaling airborne particles (sneezing, coughing) or through direct transfer of mucous matter (hand-shaking, kissing.) It's symptoms are similar to most other flu viruses:

• Coughing
• Sore Throat
• Runny or Congested Nose
• Fever and Chills
• Head and Body Aches
• Fatigue
• Sometimes Vomiting and Diarrhea

Is my Cat Likely to Get H1N1 From Me?

Answer: To date there have been three documented cases of a cat catching swine flu from a family member. The AVMA advice is to keep sick family members away from all pets, and to otherwise use good sanitation precautions. Should you get H1N1, the best precautions against spreading it to humans or cats are:

• Swine flu victims should stay in bed during the early days of the flu, and keep the cats out of the bedroom. You should not have direct contact with your cats until 24 hours after your temperature has returned to normal.
• Cough or sneeze into a tissue, then fold the tissue and discard it in a trash container.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water immediately after coughing or sneezing, and before preparing food for your family, including your cats.
• Watch for symptoms of H1N1 in your cats and take them to the veterinarian at the first sign of symptoms.

Diet for Long-Term Health

Fortifying the Diet for Long-Term Health
Fortifying the Diet for Long-Term Health

You want to ensure the well-being of your canine companion. But it may not be a simple matter to determine which nutrients are required for optimal health.

You see, no two dogs are the same, due to a variety of factors, including differences in breed, life stage, health needs, personality, living environment and level of activity. In part, it is due to your dog’s unique health requirements that adding a dietary supplement to their daily nutritional intake is more important than you might think.

While feeding a wholesome, nutritious food like Life’s Abundance can make an enormous impact on the health of your dog, supplements are a necessary component in fulfilling the individual dietary requirements of your pup.

Working with our veterinarian product formulator, Dr. Jane Bicks, we have developed three unique formulas to target specific needs: Agility for healthy joints, Skin & Coat for healthy skin and a glossy coat, and Advanced Daily Supplement for an improved immune system.

To find out more about these health-promoting supplements, click on any of the links below.

Agility	Skin & Coat	Daily Supplement

Cat Is Choking

Janie

Today, I’d like to give you some tips on what to do if your cat is choking. Hopefully this will NEVER happen to you, but it can … and if it does, I want you to know what to do so you can hopefully save your cat.

So, what can you do if your cat is choking?

When a person is choking, they do the Heimlich maneuver … but can you do the same thing for a cat?

Yes, the action you take when a cat is choking is very similar. It is a modification of the Heimlich maneuver.

Henry Heimlich was a physician born in the 1920’s. He invented a procedure consisting of abdominal thrusts that was designed to treat choking by dislodging things that become “caught” in the upper airway. The procedure came to be known as the Heimlich maneuver. This procedure became the backbone of choking rescue guidelines for humans.

Take a minute today to learn the step-by-step procedure for doing the Heimlich maneuver in cats. It is fairly easy to do, just go to www.PetPlace.com and search for the article “Heimlich For Your Cat” for a detailed explanation and a video of the procedure.

Finally, to prevent choking please keep all small objects that could be swallowed out of your cat’s reach. Choose your cat’s toys with care and avoid toys with small pieces that can be chewed off and ingested.

I hope this gives you some valuable information on how to help your cat in case of an emergency.