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Check those pearly whites! |
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Healthy gums and teeth are critical to your cat's overall
health. If left untreated, infections that originate in the mouth
will spread to vital organs such as their kidneys and heart.
Diseased gums and teeth can cause your pet considerable pain,
which may force them to stop eating. When caught early through
routine dental exams, gum infections can be stopped. |
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| Bring in a stool sample.
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Even cats that reside indoors (the safest place for them to
live) are susceptible to intestinal infections. Cats who lives
with dogs can also contract parasites. Parasite infestations
compromise your pet's long-term health. Immediate concerns
such as diarrhea can blossom into chronic health problems.
Once discovered, parasites can be eliminated with medication. |
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Mirror, mirror? |
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Subtle changes to your cat's eyes are an inevitable function of
time. But let your vet decide if these changes are within normal
limits. Your pet's eye condition may be treatable, and a routine vet
check may prevent further loss of sight or even blindness. |
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In a heartbeat. |
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Heart irregularities are not uncommon and can develop in cats of
any age. Many heart conditions if discovered in time, are treatable
with medication and a special diet. As with any chronic medication
condition, follow-up visits are critical to monitor the progression
of your pet's illness. |
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Tipping the scale? |
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Even the most observant owners can miss gradual
changes in
their cat's weight. Weight loss can be an
indication of thyroid or
kidney disease, both conditions which
can be managed or
treated, especially if caught early in the
disease process. An
extra pound or two may be the result of
overzealous feeding; so
easy to do! But obesity has health
risks for your cat too. Excess weight overworks your pet's
vital organs. Be sure to consult your vet or a nutritionist
before putting any pet on a diet. |
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Those golden oldies. |
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Older cats are truly wise souls to be cherished. Although a
lifetime's worth of good care and nutrition are the keys to a
comfortable old age, help preserve your senior's health with more
frequent vet visits. Routine blood work will enable your vet to
establish a baseline by which to measure the functioning of vital
organs and critical blood valves. Like people, animals often need a
little help so they can age gracefully. For the older cat, items 1-5
are especially critical. |
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An ounce of prevention is worth everything. |
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Providing
your cat with a thorough physical exam by a caring professional may
mean the difference between life and death. Your vet may detect
growths and other warning signs of illnesses before they take hold
and harm your pet. Remember, early detection is the best remedy for
successful treatment. |
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| To vaccinate or not to vaccinate. |
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Years ago, annual vaccinations were considered to cornerstone of
good pet ownership. Now we know better. Research in recent years has
revealed the pitfalls of over- vaccination. Injection-site carcinomas
and a host of immune system related problems have been associated
with traditional vaccination practices. The American Association of
Feline Practitioners (AAFP), among others, now recommends a more
conservative approach. Talk to your vet, and also educate yourself
about this very important issue! |
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Veterinary medicine, like human medicine, has become a very
specialized profession.
Do not hesitate to ask your general
practitioner to refer you to a host of veterinary specialists,
including (but not limited to) those in the fields of internal
medicine, oncology, urology, ophthalmology, dermatology and
cardiology. Also be aware that alternative treatments abound as
well. Holistic care practitioners offer compelling perspectives on
a range of issues including nutrition, pain management, and drug
usage. Utilize the resources in your community, including shelter
workers and other conscientious pet owners to explore the medical
resources available to you an your pet. |
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If you have any questions about
how to care for your cat, please call 773.935.PAWS. |
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