7 Common Cat Health Problems

by Elisabeth Fillmore

Published: June 7th, 2017

Even the healthiest of cats can come down with an illness, and for the most part, it’s nothing to worry about. These are the most common cat health problems pet parents should know about.

You don’t have to be a boy scout to live by the motto of “be prepared;” as a pet owner, it’s best to know what the most common cat illnesses and health problems are, so that you can spot the symptoms in your kitty. It can also help you schedule preventative care.

Here are seven of the common cat health problems you’ll encounter:

Vomiting

Probably the most common health problem in cats is vomiting. My cat is incredibly prone to it; if her food bowl ever goes empty for more than 5 minutes, she will complain loudly until I fill it up. Then she will promptly eat too much, and vomit. If your cat vomits once because of a clear cut cause (overeating), then this isn’t something to worry about. If you cat vomits more than once though, call your vet; vomiting can quickly leave your cat dehydrated, and might be indicative of a more serious issue.

Diarrhea

This is another pretty common health problem that is usually a symptom of something larger. Have you recently changed your cat’s food? Has she been exposed to a new environment? If diarrhea lasts for more than a day, call your vet, since, like vomiting, it can leave your cat dehydrated.

UTI

Urinary Tract Infections are probably the most common cat illness. They occur in the bladder and the urethra (the tube leading from the bladder that carries the cat’s urine out of the system) and the most common symptom is blood in the urine. Although seeing red in your litter box is really shocking, a UTI is nothing to panic about. Take your cat to the vet immediately, but normal with prescribed medication and a change in your cat’s diet, the infection should cease within 10 days. Most vets will conduct urine analyses to monitor the presence of the virus, and if this happens more than once, your vet might recommend a special prescription diet and a low stress environment.

Fleas

Both indoor and outdoor cats can get fleas. They are uncomfortable, but easy to spot; if your cat is constantly scratching or licking, they probably have fleas. Fleas look like dirt on your cat’s skin. If you notice them, it’s best to call your vet to help you figure out what medication works best for you and your cat.

Worms

Tapeworms are the most common in cats, as they live inside the cat’s intestine. If you cat is losing weight rapidly, has diarrhea, or is vomiting for no reason, it would be best to check her bedding area. Usually tapeworms come out of your cat’s anus while she’s sleeping or relaxed, and as a result her bed is the best area to check. If her bed has some small white worms on it, which resemble rice, then she likely have worms. Call your vet to find out what deworming treatment works best for you; oral dewormer medication is always my go to. Cleanliness, flea control and keeping your cat indoors will help stop worms becoming a common occurrence in your house.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis, or inflamed gums, is a common feline dental issue. It’s caused by the same thing in humans and in cats; by plaque. The combination of the sticky bacterial film and food particles accumulating along the gum line irritates the gum and makes it hypersensitive. In the wild, when cats take apart their food, they interact enough with their whole mouth that this doesn’t happen. Indoor cats, however, often have this issue. Most vets recommend brushing your cat’s teeth to help with this, since gingivitis, left untreated, could lead tartar separating the gums from the teeth.

Eye problems

The last issue is eye problems. Unless you know what’s cause your cat’s eye problem (like allergies), you should call your vet. Eye problems should be considered an emergency, since they can be serious, so make an appointment as soon as possible.

Elisabeth Fillmore

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Senior Cat Health Problems: How to Keep Your Senior Cat Active

Part of getting older is slowing down. The same goes for our felines. Take control of your senior cat health problems by keeping her active. As your cat gets older, the type of care you provide may need to change, especially if she’s been diagnosed with a chronic condition. When it comes to senior cat health problems, the best thing to do is keep her comfortable and active. Remember, though, that every cat is unique, so discuss what’s best for your pet with your vet if you have questions regarding any senior cat health problems that can be aided by the right nutrition and exercise. Keeping a Senior Cat Physically and Mentally Active While your cat may have loved running around the house and jumping high into the air to snatch a toy when he was younger, that type of play may no longer be appropriate. But just because your cat has become less active and has slowed down doesn’t mean that she doesn’t need to get at least a little bit of exercise regularly. Related: How Feline Behavior Can Change With Age The key is to provide gentle play sessions to maintain a healthy level of activity that promotes happiness and health. Go ahead and encourage your cat to play for a couple of minutes at a time throughout the day. Pouncing on a stuffed mouse that’s been filled with catnip or grabbing a feather on the end of a wand you’re holding are just a couple of ways that your senior cat can maintain strong reflexes, joints, and muscles. Senior cats also need to keep their minds stimulated. When it comes to keeping your cat mentally active, try puzzle toys, such as food puzzle toys that reward her efforts with treats. Kitty TV and being able to sit at a window to watch the world outside can also prevent boredom while keeping his mind active. Maintaining a Healthy Weight As your cat gets older and less active, it might become easier for her to pack on extra pounds. This, in turn, may put increasing amounts of pressure on his joints. Being overweight may also make various internal systems less efficient and weaker, putting your kitty at risk for other illnesses. Related: 6 Gratifying Reasons To Adopt A Senior Cat Senior cat food formulas with highly digestible nutrients are available to meet your cat’s nutritional needs. But to prevent weight gain, it isn’t only about the food that you’re feeding; it’s also about how much you’re feeding. Avoid free feeding, and determine the right portions to provide several times a day by discussing your cat’s particular needs with your vet. These steps will help your cat remain at the ideal weight. Nutrition for Chronic Conditions In addition to feeding your senior cat a nutritious diet that will help her maintain a healthy weight, your vet may also recommend specific foods if your cat suffers from a chronic condition. You may be able to find a food that’s already formulated to meet your cat’s needs, or your vet may recommend supplements, as a couple of examples. The key is to provide the right nutrients to your cat in order to bring balance back to her body. Grooming Your Senior Cat As she gets older, your cat may end up having trouble grooming herself because it might be difficult to reach certain areas of her body. If this is the case, give her a hand by grooming her gently every day. This will make her look and feel great, and it’s a wonderful way to bond with your cat. Keeping a Senior Kitty Comfortable There are many things you can do to ensure your senior cat is comfortable at all times. For example, you can provide plenty of warm, well-padded cat beds, and place different types of beds in different rooms in your cat’s favorite spots. You can also purchase pet stairs or ramps that help your kitty get to high places more easily without having to jump, especially if she suffers with conditions that limit his mobility. If your cat gets disoriented at night, keep some night lights on around the house. Consider moving the litter box, or adding an extra one, so that your cat can access it more easily. You may also need to change the type of litter box you’re using so that your kitty can climb into and out of it with ease. Regular Trips to the Vet Regular trips to the vet are necessary to diagnose conditions in their earliest stages and provide the appropriate treatments right away. Your vet may recommend bringing your kitty in twice annually so that she can run a blood test, check his teeth and gums, ensure she’s maintaining a healthy weight, and more. Keeping senior cat health problems at bay is all about following a healthy routine. By starting this regimen as soon as you notice your cat is slowing down, you’ll be able to catch issues before they become overwhelming.

How to Solve the 7 Most Common Kitty Litter Problems

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What Is Feline Cerebellar Hypoplasia?

A developmental disorder, Feline Cerebellar Hypoplasia affects the way a cat walks. Here’s what you should know about the illness and what can be done. If you’ve ever seen a cat, whether online, in a shelter, or on TV, who can’t quite walk straight, you may have already heard of feline cerebellar hypoplasia. But what is this condition, and is it something that a cat can live with? The Basics: What It Is and What Causes It Cerebellar hypoplasia is a developmental disorder that can affect cats. It occurs when the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain responsible for controlling coordination, balance, and fine motor skills, doesn’t develop as it should. Thankfully, feline cerebellar hypoplasia isn’t contagious, nor is it painful. Related: 7 Common Cat Health Problems This condition commonly afflicts kittens after a pregnant cat is infected with the panleukopenia virus. The infection is passed from the mother to the unborn kittens, and the virus ends up attacking cells that rapidly divide. It is during the last few weeks of a cat’s pregnancy, as well as the first weeks following a kitten’s birth, that the cerebellum experiences a period of fast development and growth. So, as you probably already guessed, that leaves the area susceptible to the virus’ attack. But this doesn’t mean that every kitten in a litter will be affected. In some cases, only one kitten might be impacted, while in other cases, an entire litter could be afflicted with cerebellar hypoplasia. Other potential causes include genetic factors, trauma, exposure to toxins, and nutritional deficiencies. For example, if a cat is malnourished while she is pregnant, cerebellar hypoplasia might develop in her kittens. The condition could also occur if a kitten endures trauma to the brain while the cerebellum is still developing. The Symptoms: What It Looks Like The symptoms associated with cerebellar hypoplasia might be apparent at birth or a short period of time after birth. However, symptoms will typically become even more obvious when a kitten starts to stand and walk. This is usually around the age of six weeks. Related: What Is Feline Distemper? The more the cerebellum was impacted, the more severe the symptoms will be. The severity of symptoms could also depend upon the stage of development during which the kitten was affected. Common symptoms of feline cerebellar hypoplasia include: Uncoordinated, clumsy, and unsteady walkingJerky movements, an inability to judge distance, flipping over, and fallingTremors (These go away while the animal sleeps. They can include head and limb tremors and intention tremors, which happen when the pet attempts to make a movement, such as during play or eating.)Swaying motions when walkingHypermetria (a “goose-stepping walk”) Diagnosis and Treatment: The Options Available Unfortunately, there isn’t a lab test that can detect cerebellar hypoplasia. Providing your veterinarian with a list of symptoms and a health history on your pet will be helpful during a physical exam. Your vet may also order a complete blood count, blood chemical profile, urinalysis, and electrolyte panel to determine if other causes might be the reason for your pet’s symptoms. And to check the size of the cerebellum (a kitten with cerebellar hypoplasia will have a smaller cerebellum), your vet may order an MRI. Also unfortunate is the fact that there is no treatment available for feline cerebellar hypoplasia, as it is the result of poor brain development. The disorder will be permanent, but cats can live a normal life and learn to adapt to getting around with this condition. Plus, following the infant stage, a kitten typically won’t exhibit signs that the disease is progressing or worsening. If your cat has cerebellar hypoplasia, what you can do is make adjustments to your home to help prevent accidents and injuries. You can have your pet neutered or spayed, and you can also have other cats in your household. However, a cat with cerebellar hypoplasia should be kept indoors at all times. Work with your vet to determine the severity of your pet’s symptoms and to figure out what measures can be taken to ensure your kitty can live a happy and comfortable life. CH Cats: Special Needs Pets That Are Full of Love In the end, kitties with cerebellar hypoplasia are just special needs pets that are full of love and deserving of homes. So if you’re willing to adopt a kitten or adult cat with CH, consider checking shelters and foster networks to find your new furry best friend.

All the Facts About Glaucoma in Cats

A condition that can affect your cat’s vision, glaucoma can be treated and managed. Here’s what you need to know about glaucoma in cats.Your cat has stunning eyes. They’re bright and vibrant, always on the alert, and when your pet looks at you with a penetrating gaze, it is impossible not to notice just how amazing your furry little companion really is. But whether your kitty has gorgeous blue eyes, golden eyes, or emerald green eyes, the truth is that they’re delicate and can be injured or develop health problems—just like your eyes. So, being aware of at least some of the eye conditions that can affect cats, and what you can do about them, is yet another step you can take to care for your companion. Glaucoma in cats is a condition that affects the eyes, just like it can affect the eyes of humans. Knowing what it is and what its symptoms are could help you recognize it so that you can give your pet the appropriate treatments. Below is an overview of feline glaucoma, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. What Is Feline Glaucoma?Glaucoma, which could occur in one eye or both, develops when the fluid within the eye doesn’t drain as it should. Basically, the fluid starts to accumulate and it puts pressure on the optic nerve. The pressure ultimately causes nerve damage, adversely affecting vision. As the disease progresses without any form of treatment, it could result in your cat becoming partially or completely blind. Therefore, if you begin to notice any signs that your kitty is having trouble seeing well or you note changes in the way your pet’s eyes look, it is best to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. That way, you can get the answers you need, including an accurate diagnosis that will give you the ability to move forward with an appropriate treatment plan. The Two Types of GlaucomaAlthough you might think of glaucoma as a single condition, it is important to be aware that there is more than one type of glaucoma that could impact kitties. More specifically, a cat could be diagnosed with primary glaucoma or secondary glaucoma.Primary glaucoma is inherited, and it is often associated with certain breeds, such as Siamese and Burmese kitties. It is considered relatively rare, but cats who have it will typically have symptoms in both eyes.Secondary glaucoma, on the other hand, is more common, and it could occur in either one eye or both eyes. It also isn’t as predictable, as a kitty might end up developing severe glaucoma in one eye but never have problems with the other eye.Related: A Short Guide to Feline Eye CareThe Causes of Glaucoma in CatsGlaucoma could be caused by uveitis, which is a serious inflammation of the eye that forms protein and debris, which then block the eye’s drainage ducts. This causes the fluid to build up, resulting in the excess pressure. Uveitis could be caused by conditions that include FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus), FeLV (feline leukemia virus), toxoplasmosis, and FIP (feline infectious peritonitis).Uveitis is just one of several potential causes of glaucoma in cats. For example, glaucoma could also be caused by a dislocation of the lens of the eye, particularly when it falls forward and prevents proper drainage of fluid, as well as tumors, a ruptured lens, and bleeding in the eye.Your veterinarian will be able to check your cat’s eyes and determine what is causing the glaucoma. Again, this is important because it can help lead you to the treatment that your pet needs. What Are the Symptoms of Feline Glaucoma?There are several signs that your cat might have glaucoma. But it could be difficult to recognize the signs that your cat is suffering from glaucoma because symptoms might not be obvious and the progression of the disease could take place slowly. Here are some of the possible symptoms you might pick up on:You might notice that your cat is in pain. She might keep an eye partially closed or she might rub her eye or avoid being petted in the area around the eye.You might also notice that your cat’s eye has gotten cloudier or larger. More specifically, the cornea (which is the clear part of your cat’s eye) might appear bluish or cloudy. One eye might start to appear bigger than the other, particularly as the pressure within the eye increases, and the white of the eye might appear bloodshot/red or swollen.Related: 7 Common Cat Health ProblemsOther symptoms might include a dilated pupil that doesn’t react to light, squinting, behavioral changes, or a clear, watery discharge. And as your cat’s vision decreases, you may also pick up on signs that she is going blind.Once symptoms do become apparent, it is imperative that you have your cat examined by a vet to receive care immediately. The disease might have been affecting your pet longer than you think. So, the sooner your kitty can be treated, the better, as doing so may help reduce the amount of damage caused by glaucoma, and might also help stop your pet from going blind. In other words, as soon as you notice any of the symptoms above, or if you think there might be something wrong with your cat’s eye(s) for any reason, head to the vet right away. How Is Glaucoma in Cats Diagnosed? Based on the symptoms that you’ve noticed in your cat, you might assume that glaucoma is to blame, but your veterinarian will need to determine if glaucoma is indeed the cause of your pet’s eye problems. Also, glaucoma is not something that you should try diagnosing and treating on your own. This is a serious problem that needs to be addressed with the help of a vet who has experience in diagnosing and treating feline eye problems.  What can you expect? Well, to diagnose this disease, your vet will likely perform a thorough examination and use a tonometer to check for glaucoma in the eyes. A tonometer will use a puff of air to measure the pressure within each eye. If your vet finds that the pressure is too high and your cat is showing signs of vision loss, they may diagnose your cat with glaucoma, and may even order more tests using gonioscopy to figure out how well the fluid is draining from the eye.What Are the Treatments for Glaucoma in Cats?Once your cat is diagnosed with glaucoma, it can’t be reversed or cured. Instead, the goal will be to reduce the eye pressure as efficiently as possible. Your vet may provide you with treatments to help alleviate symptoms, such as pain and inflammation, so your kitty can feel better. And if your vet is able to figure out the underlying cause, treating that will also be necessary.For example, your vet might prescribe remedies to reduce pain, as well as eye drops that contain ingredients like timolol or dorzolamide to help reduce pressure in the eye. They might also recommend steroids to reduce inflammation, or medications that could decrease the production of fluid while promoting drainage. And these treatments might slow down the vision loss.In some cases, a vet might suggest surgery to reduce eye pressure. Also, removing the affected eye(s) might be recommended if other treatments are ineffective.Long-term treatments might be necessary, and prognosis will ultimately depend upon the underlying cause of the glaucoma and the effectiveness of the treatments that are provided by your vet.Don’t Wait, See Your Vet for Advice on Feline GlaucomaGlaucoma is not a problem that can be taken lightly. Instead, getting your cat the necessary treatment is imperative. So, don’t hesitate to seek help from a veterinarian you trust. You can also consider consulting with a veterinary ophthalmologist for more specialized care. Again, if you notice that your cat’s behavior has changed, her eyes look different, or her vision seems impaired, it’s strongly recommended that you seek help from your vet to figure out what’s wrong. Then, with proper treatment, you could help your cat feel better if she is diagnosed with glaucoma.

Tosh.O Shows How Crowdsourcing is a Pain in the Butt for a Cute Kitten

Crowdsourcing for worthy causes is a common occurrence. Comedian Daniel Tosh recently highlighted one of the most worthy we’ve seen, and frankly, if you don’t donate, you’re a real butt-hole. So you’ll have to pardon the pun, but honestly, we can’t help it. Even though it makes us giggle like middle-schoolers, it’s actually a serious thing. Related: 7 Common Cat Health Problems A poor little kitten being housed at the Kitty Bungalow Charm School for Wayward Cats needs a butt-hole. No, really. She does. Kitty Bungalow is a feral cat rescue and socialization facility in California, and they shelter feral cats to help end overpopulation in shelters. They socialize cats to find homes for ferals, and they believe that every cat has the unalienable right to a pooper. The specific cat in question is a sweet little furball named Cluck, who is only 10 days old. Cluck was born with a condition called Imperforate Anus and it is literally the absence of a way for Cluck to poop. Pooping is pretty important; you may have heard every one does it, and it’s imperative to survive, and without a risky and expensive surgery, Cluck will not live. Tosh Talks Tushies Look who made it on to Tosh.0! Apparently he wants to help little Cluck get her butthole. You can also help her to get her butthole by going here: https://www.crowdrise.com/o/en/campaign/kitty-needs-a-butt-hole Posted by Kitty Bungalow-Charm School for Wayward Cats on Thursday, November 9, 2017 The Kitty Bungalow is dedicated to rescuing the street and stray cats alike, and they’ve started a Crowdrise Fund for this sweet little baby. It’s gaining steam, as Comedy Central funnyman Daniel Tosh suggested viewers raise enough money to give Cluck at least twenty buttholes, but the folks at Kitty Bungalow would be completely content with just one to give this baby a chance. Doesn’t everybody deserve the ability to poop?

Scientists Finally Identify Mystery Dog Illness Sweeping America

If you are a dog owner in the United States, you have likely already seen the news reports about the mystery illness responsible for the deaths of several dogs, prompting veterinary professionals to caution pet parents about taking their pets out to public spaces. But we may finally be able to spot the light at the end of the tunnel… Dr. David Needle, pathology section chief at the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture at the University of New Hampshire, reported that scientists have finally identified the cause of the illness. While this doesn’t mean that life for our dogs can return to normal immediately, it does mean that they are one step closer to finding a cure and moving past this nightmare. The research article has yet to be published, but the team is sharing their initial findings to provide hope for pet parents and the veterinary community. The pathogen responsible for the mystery respiratory illness is described as “a funky bacterium.” “It’s smaller than a normal bacterium in its size and in the size of its genome,” explained Needle. “Long story short, it’s a weird bacterium that can be tough to find and sequence.” Searching for the cause of this illness wasn’t easy for researchers. Initially, there were no known bacterial, viral, or fungal pathogens, meaning they were searching blind. However, after testing 30 samples from New Hampshire, genetic material from an atypical bacterial species was discovered. The next step in understanding the cause of the illness and working towards a cure (and possible preventative) is to compare these findings to samples from dogs in other states to verify that it is, in fact, the same pathogen in all reported instances. States with possible cases of the disease include: CaliforniaColoradoFlorida Georgia IdahoIllinois IndianaMarylandMassachusettsNew HampshireOregonPennsylvania Rhode IslandVermontWashingtonOne challenge faced by veterinarians is the fact there is no test to confirm that all reported cases are, in fact, the same illness. What Are the Warning Signs?Common symptoms resemble respiratory infections like canine influenza and kennel cough, conditions usually seen in higher numbers at this time of year. Luckily for the human members of our family, there are currently no reports of the illness being transferred to humans. Veterinarians recommend watching out for the following symptoms: Coughing or sneezing WheezingDifficulty breathingNasal or eye dischargeDehydration Loss of appetite Weight loss FeverLethargyHow Can You Keep Your Dog Safe? Until a cure has been identified, dog parents are encouraged to focus on preventative measures. Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are current, protecting them against known respiratory problems. Avoid public spaces like dog parks, doggy daycare, and grooming establishments where dogs may be exposed to the illness. If you must go to a public space, steer clear of shared food and water dishes. Your dog will be just as happy to spend this time playing with you as they would with another dog!If you notice any signs of respiratory trouble or illness, don’t panic. Contact your veterinarian to share your concerns and make an appointment.

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How Do I Teach My Cat to Play Fetch?

Unlike dogs, cats aren’t exactly known for their love of fetch. If you dream of tossing a toy with your furry best friend for hours, fear note – with a bit of time, patience, and positive reinforcement, you may just inspire a new love for the game in your kitty. This post will discuss why some cats take to fetch so naturally and how play can benefit your cat’s overall health and well-being. Plus, we’ll share how to teach your cat to play fetch step-by-step with tips for success! So, grab your cat’s favorite toy and get ready for a fun game of fetch…Why Do Cats Love Playing Fetch? There are many theories about why cats enjoy this game. The most accepted theory is that the action triggers natural hunting instincts. When an object is thrown, it mimics their prey moving across the room. The cat then chases the toy, stalking and hunting it. Retrieving the toy and bringing it back to you is similar to cats bringing their freshly killed prey to their owners as a gift. Other experts see the game of fetch as an attempt to spend quality time playing together, bonding like we do with our dogs. However, no research confirms either theory. What Toy Do Cats Love Most? Finding the best toy for your fetch-loving cat can be a fun process. Why? There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. Instead, you’ll have to set aside time to play and test which toys your cat connects with most. Think of it as a fun game of trial and error. We have two cats at home, one of whom is absolutely in love with playing fetch. Pippen, our Maine Coon mix, will bring toys to us randomly throughout the day. She drops them at our feet and meows loudly while pawing at our pant legs, begging us to throw whatever she has brought us. Here are a few of her favorite toys to play fetch with: SmartyKat Skitter Critters Catnip Cat Toys: These little mice are not only the perfect size and weight for cats to carry around, but the fact they include catnip makes them even more enticing. If the theory about hunting is correct, they are a great example of mock prey. Catit Eco Cat Toy: Another prey-like toy, this is arguably the top choice in our house. Pippen loves anything with feathers. If you have a tiny kitten, this is a little harder to carry, but Pippen is relatively small, and she has never had a problem. Andiker Cat Crinkle Balls: This is another one I have heard other cat parents raving about. The balls make a fun crinkling sound while the foil-like mylar material reflects the light, making them a fun visual spectacle to hunt down. SPOT Colorful Springs: These toys may not seem special, but the spring design causes them to bounce around the room unpredictably. This keeps your cat on their toes as they hunt them down with each throw. Cat Tube Spring Toys: These toys are made of lightweight mesh material, making them easy to carry around. If you fold them or push down the ends, then let go, they fly through the air. The goal is to find something your cat loves, wants to retrieve, and can comfortably carry back to you to continue the game. Is It Normal for a Cat to Never Play? While you can expect a range of playfulness from cats, with some cats being very playful and others only playing occasionally when they “feel like it,” it’s not normal for a cat to never play at all. A healthy adult cat should get at least 30 to 60 minutes of playtime daily. This can be in one large play session or, ideally, split into shorter play sessions of 10 to 15 minutes. If you have a cat who appears lazy or unmotivated, you should prioritize turning this around and encouraging them to play more. Otherwise, they will be at a higher risk of potential health complications, including obesity, diabetes, urinary tract diseases, arthritis and other joint-related issues, and fatty liver disease.

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Blue Ridge Beef, one of the foremost pet food companies in North Carolina, decided to recall their 2-pound kitten and puppy food because of a serious potential threat of listeria and salmonella in their kibble. The pet food in question was distributed to locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.Unfortunately, North Carolina Department of Agriculture discovered a serious issue when analyzing their product, realizing that one lot of each of the food products was positive for salmonella and listeria, on December 15th. This included kitten food lots “N24 1114-N24 1224”, of 2-lb logs of “Kitten Grind” (UPC 8 54298 00101 6), and “Kitten Mix” (UPC UPC 8 54298 00143 6). Also included was the “Puppy Mix” (UPC 8 54298 00169 6).The action was swift to pull these products from the shelves, as both listeria and salmonella can be very dangerous to pets who consume the contaminated food. It can also be harmful to humans who touch the food as well, especially pregnant women and children. Pets who get infected can suffer from vomiting, fever, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite, so if you notice any of these symptoms and your pet has been eating the food that is now recalled, make sure to take them to a vet for treatment ASAP.Luckily, the Blue Ridge Beef company announced that so far it has not received any reports of illnesses that are connected to this recall of food. Likewise, the company is not facing any legal action because of the recall. Pet owners who purchased this food are encouraged to contact Blue Ridge Beef company at  blueridgebeefnc@yahoo.com for a full refund. Consumers can also get in touch with Steven Lea, from 8 am. to 5:30 pm. ET Monday-Friday at (704) 880-4500. 

Dog Finds A Forever Home After Spending 1,007 Days at Delaware Shelter

Tessy, now a 5-year-old black Labrador retriever mix, spent 1,007 days at a Delaware animal shelter before being adopted into a forever home. This cute pooch arrived at Humane Animal Partners (formerly Delaware Humane Association and Delaware SPCA) on January 17, 2021, hoping to be adopted in no time.Unfortunately, finding her people proved challenging for Tessy. Days, weeks, months, and years went by, and Tessy was still living at the shelter with no prospective adopters in sight. “Tessy is loyal, goofy, snuggly, and remarkably smart,” said Leigh McKinley, a director at the Humane Animal Partners, according to PEOPLE. Like many other shelter dogs, Tessy had some trust issues and was wary of new people and experiences. These problems were the reasons for Tessy’s longer stay at the Humane Animal Partners shelter. “Tessy exhibited fear-reactive behaviors in the form of lunging, barking, and growling towards unfamiliar stimuli. Our goal was to help her overcome those fears and learn to trust humans and her surrounding environment, essentially changing her emotional response from a negative to a positive,” McKinley explained.The shelter used a behavioral modification plan, which consisted of positive reinforcement training techniques to help Tessy overcome her fears. Fixing a problematic behavior takes a lot of time, patience, and effort, but the shelter’s staff didn’t give up on Tessy.“Changing an involuntary physiological behavior takes dedication and consistency to be successful, and while we were determined to see this through, the nature of being in a shelter, with different staff members working with her on any given day, and for varying amounts of time, means the change would take time,” said McKinley. “We also needed to make sure her adopters were the right fit for her. We took a very thoughtful and careful approach to introducing her to people, and it took time for the right family to find her.”Then, almost three years later, all of Tessy’s hard work paid off! After 1,007 days at the shelter, this cute pooch has finally found her forever home. The family who adopted Tessy, met her several times to help her feel at ease. For the adopters, it was love at first sight, and Tessy instantly felt safe around them. “When her adopters Jeanine and Jeff first met her, we all tried to keep a level head about it, not getting our hopes up too high. After their third meeting, though, we could tell Tessy had already established a level of trust with them that we had never seen so quickly before,” said McKinley. Jeff and Jeanine adopted the pooch shortly after the third visit, and the shelter’s staff was ecstatic that Tessy had found a loving home.“It was a rollercoaster of emotions leading up to the adoption day, everything from celebrations to disbelief to sadness, excitement, a bit of anxiety, and everything in between. Mostly, though, we felt proud. Proud of her, proud of everyone who helped get her to this point, and proud of the results,” McKinley shared.  “We all know she’d do okay, we are also quite aware that going from three years in the shelter into a loving home is a big adjustment, and it will take her a while to fully acclimate. We tried to instill in her adopters to be confident and patient but never to be complacent.” the shelter’s director added.It’s important to know that not every visit to an animal shelter ends with ‘love at first sight.’ A lot of adoptable dogs have experienced some level of trauma and neglect, and are generally more anxious inside the shelter. Keep an open mind when visiting your local shelter and remember that each of these pups deserves a loving family and a forever home. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Researchers Find Genetic Links Between Human and Canine Brain Tumors

In a groundbreaking study, researchers have discovered striking similarities between the most common type of brain tumor in dogs and humans - meningioma. These findings were published in the scientific journal Acta Neuropathologica. Until now, scientists struggled to find reliable experimental models to understand the biology of and develop effective treatments for these tumors. But thanks to these newly discovered similarities, doctors will be able to use a classification system that identifies these aggressive tumors in humans and pooches.“The discovery that naturally occurring canine tumors closely resemble their human counterparts opens numerous avenues of exploring the biology of these challenging tumors,” said Dr. Akash Patel, an associate professor of neurosurgery at Baylor College of Medicine and principal investigator at the Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute (Duncan NRI) at Texas Children’s Hospital. “It also provides opportunities for developing and studying novel treatments applicable to both humans and dogs,” he added.During the study, researchers analyzed 62 dog meningiomas from 27 breeds and found that the tumors were remarkably similar to the same kinds of tumors in humans. To this date, this is the largest study of the gene expression profiles of the canine meningioma. Others, including Dr. Jonathan Levine, a VMBS professor and the head of the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences (VSCS), and Dr. Tiemo Klisch, assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine and Principal Investigator at Duncan NRI, were involved in the study along Dr. Patel. Meanwhile, assistant professor Dr. Beth Boudreau was a key collaborator. Previous work done by Levine, Boudreau, and others at VMBS, which found similarities between gliomas - the second most common type of brain tumors - in humans and dogs, was instrumental for Patel’s study. “We ended up agreeing to provide Patel with canine tumor samples we had worked years and years to achieve, to see if he could isolate the RNA, which is not always easy to do,” said Levine, in a statement. “He was able to produce this very robust data set that showed a similar pattern structure to human tumors. Our team also provided Dr. Patel with key clinical outcome data, including responses to certain treatments.”Now that the researchers have found a link between brain tumors in humans and dogs they hope to establish clinical trials to continue their research. Setting up this type of clinical trial can take several years of planning and requires funding.“We are really interested in creating wins for both human and animal medicine,” said Levine. “For example, we hope to give dog owners access to therapy that’s not available anywhere else in the world through clinical trials. At the same time, that information will also inform the next step of human trials.”As it happens, another group of researchers from the University of California, Davis, conducted a similar study with matching results about meningioma in humans and dogs. This study was also published in the scientific journal Acta Neuropathologica.Now, the two research groups plan to collaborate in the future and share their findings to develop treatment options for both human and canine brain tumors. “If we do one trial, we’d be able to enroll patients a lot more quickly, which would make it easier to get larger data sets resulting in stronger findings. So we have a lot of interest in doing a collaborative trial,” added Levine. “We really see the team out in California as potential partners.” Thanks to this groundbreaking research, scientists now have a better understanding of brain tumors and are one step closer to developing life-saving treatments for both humans and dogs. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Cats: The Basics

Like humans, cats can develop a vitamin B12 deficiency. This water-soluble vitamin is needed for a variety of functions, affecting everything from their digestion to cognitive function, so it’s important to address a deficiency in your pet.Here’s some information on the symptoms and causes of vitamin B12 deficiency, along with what you can do to address it.

New Study Shows Surprising Effect of Pet Ownership on Seniors

You’ve probably noticed how your four-legged bestie influences your mood for the better, but did you know that your pet might be beneficial to your brain? That’s right! The latest studies show that your pet and their company could be just the thing to lower the risk of dementia in your golden years. These findings are especially important for single senior pet owners who are at risk of this troubling illness as they reveal that having a pet can make a drastic change. A recent study that involved adults over the age of 50 who lived alone revealed that those living in the company of a loved pet will have considerably less decline in their verbal fluency and verbal memory - compared to those who lived without a pet. This research was published in the  journal JAMA Network Open and was based on data taken from 7,945 people in the mentioned age group.This study, however, only reflects on people who live alone and does not involve participants who lived with other persons in the household. Still, while the results reinforce the fact that loneliness is a major risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia in old age, they also reveal something new – that the company of a pet counts as much as the company of human family members, if not more so.The early signs of cognitive decline can be fluency, verbal issues, cognition, and memory problems, and so on. But if you have the company of a pet, whom you can address and care for, can greatly reduce the feelings of loneliness and keep these cognitive issues at bay. This study and its results are very important in today’s day and age and for many Americans in particular. Recent U.S. Census Bureau insights revealed that almost 28 percent of all households in the United States were “one-person households” in 2020. This is an alarmingly large number and shows us that many people aged 50 and older will face lonely senior years. Of course, even though the results of this study show that older people can maintain their mental health through the company of a pet, the research team emphasized that more advanced studies and clinical trials will be required to fully confirm the results. Yet even so, the lack of an effective therapy that can reverse or slow cognitive decline and treat dementia means that these results are a small but very important benefit for the understanding of these issues. And, needless to say, all those who are entering their senior years and want to spend them in a healthier and more beneficial way now know that their next station should probably be a local pet shelter. Find a pet you can love and cherish - and keep your brain healthy while showering them with affection.

Bella the Cat Breaks the Guinness World Record for Loudest Purr

A 14-year-old cat from Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, UK has broken the Guinness World Record for the loudest purr by a domestic cat (living). Bella produced a purr measuring 54.59 decibels. To give you a better picture, Bella’s purr was as loud as the sound of a boiling kettle and almost as loud as the sound of a washing machine.Bella’s owner, Nicole Spink, explained to Guinness World Records that her cat’s special talent comes naturally: “She purrs all day long. If there’s food around or cuddles, she always purrs.”“Also when watching TV - she likes to be loud with television. My late husband used to always moan about the sound of her purr blocking the sound of the TV in the evenings.”The Spink family has always known that there’s something special about Bella’s purr. “Friends and family always notice Bella’s loud purr, everyone comments ‘what’s that loud noise? Oh, it’s the cat’. It’s just Bella being happy!”One day, while leafing through the Guinness World Record book, Ms Spink and her daughter decided to perform a test. They downloaded a phone app that recorded and measured Bella’s purr, confirming their suspicions.An app can be a good indicator of a purr’s sound level, but a sound engineer is the only person who can measure it correctly. When the day of the official attempt came, Ms Spink was nervous that Bella wouldn’t want to purr. “She’s a stubborn little old lady and she does how she pleases. It’s very much Queen Bella’s world.”Bella’s record-breaking attempt was overseen by Dave Willson, the Official Guinness World Records adjudicator. “It’s always an exciting day when there is the potential for a new record, so we waited in anticipation to see whether Bella would be able to do it.”Mr Wilson and an independent sound engineer prepared the room in Spink’s family home to block out external noises and set up recording devices. The sound level meter used was kept at a one-meter distance from Bella, as well as a one-meter distance from the ground, following certified instructions. To beat the previous world record, Bella had to purr louder than 50 decibels. According to Mr Wilson, “the results were immediately obvious.”It seems that food might be the reason Bella purrs so loudly. When talking about the record-breaking attempt Ms. Spink said: “I fed her a bowl of Whiskas and then brought her into the room, laid her in her bed and she started purring, just like that!”As you can see, Bella is extremely motivated by food. According to her owner, Bella purrs loudly every time there’s a bowl of food in front of her. Despite her advanced age, Bella sprints to her bowl as soon as she sees a package of her food. A typical day in Bella’s life revolves around three things - food, sleep, and cuddles. Bella will wake up in my bed, she always wakes me up early and asks for her food. Then she’ll ask my kids or anyone else who comes into the house for more food. Then she will sleep, and then she’ll want more food and cuddles. Food and sleep is pretty much her life!”And that’s what you call a purrfect life!While Bella’s 54.59-decibel purr was loud enough to break the world record for a living cat, the record for the loudest purr ever belongs to two other cats - Merlin and Smokey. In 2011, a Northampton cat, Smokey, owned by Lucinda Ruth Adams, was recorded purring at a shocking noise level of 67 decibels. That’s more than 13 decibels louder than Bella’s record-breaking purr. Five years later, Smokey’s record was equated by Merlin, owned by Tracy Westwood in Devon. Smokey and Merlin are still co-holders of the record for the loudest purr by a domestic cat. 

Poll Reveals Biggest Pet Peeves of Dog Owners in the U.S.

We love our dogs endlessly, but that doesn’t mean they don’t occasionally get under our skin. Even the most beloved pets come with a little “extra baggage,” introducing unique challenges and hurdles in our lives.If you have ever had to cancel plans because you couldn’t find a pet sitter or call into work to take your pet to the emergency vet because they ate something they shouldn’t, you understand.Of course, they are worth the effort!But what is the biggest annoyance faced by pet parents? This is the question that Forbes Advisor set out to answer with a recent nationwide poll. They surveyed 10,000 dog parents to uncover their biggest pet peeves, both nationally and state-by-state.Dog parents across the country revealed their biggest frustration was finding a dog sitter when traveling, as shared by 37.3% of those surveyed. This was also the top in 43 states and ranked among the top three responses in all 50.This was followed by:Finding dog-friendly hotels (23.6%)Having to walk/exercise their dog (23.3%)The cost of owning a dog (22.9%)Excessive barking (19.8%)Excessive shedding (17.5%)The answer highlights the importance of finding and creating a list of trusted pet sitters before you need one. This ensures that you’re covered not only when making travel plans but also in the event of an emergency.There are many ways to find a trusted pet sitter. Consider asking your veterinarian, groomer, or friends/family for recommendations. You can also check websites like Fetch and Rover for pet sitters in your area or browse marketplace-style listings on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Kijiji.Just make sure you are doing your due diligence. Don’t leave your beloved pet with a complete stranger. Instead, take time to ask questions, check reviews, and verify credentials.At the bottom of the list, the least reported annoyance was “when my dog jumps up on/lays on furniture or beds,” reported by only 5.32% of dog owners. Delaware and Missouri were the states where this was most often listed as one of their top annoyances, while those in New Hampshire, North Carolina, and Rhode Island reported it the least.Additionally, the following answers were at the bottom of the list:Having to take their dog to the groomer (7.55%)Excessive drooling/slobber (7.56%)Checking their dog for ticks (7.58%)Their dog taking over the bed (7.72%)Are you interested in a state-by-state breakdown? Forbes Advisor also shared a chart highlighting the top three pet peeves for each state, giving you a more detailed look at the opinions of other dog parents in your area.Overall, the survey provides a fascinating insight into the struggles faced by dog parents. For many, it may serve as a reminder that pet ownership isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Adding a dog to your family is a commitment, one that requires a willingness to make changes or sacrifices to meet their needs.If you occasionally struggle with frustration related to these changes, you’re not alone. Thousands of pet parents across the country also feel this way!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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