What You Don’t Know About Ringworm in Cats

by Lisa Selvaggio

Published: September 23rd, 2021

what you dont know about ringworm in cats

Ringworm can pass from animals to humans, and make both extremely ill. Take the necessary precautions to ensure it stays away from your cat.

If you’ve worked in pet rescue, you’re probably already pretty familiar with ringworm. But if you’re new to rescuing cats and kittens or you’re a pet owner who wants to be more informed about the various ailments that might impact a cat, you may not know a lot about ringworm. Well, we’re here to help, whether you’ve never heard of ringworm before or you want to know more about it.

Below is some information on what ringworm is, the symptoms that it can cause, and the treatments that are available to get rid of it. Armed with more information about this fungal infection, you can take the appropriate precautions to prevent it, as well as implement the best strategies to combat it right away.

What Is Ringworm?

Ringworm is a fungal infection that can occur in both people and pets, including cats. Even though “worm” is in the name, it is not caused by a worm; instead, a group of fungi called dermatophytes is to blame.

Knowing what ringworm looks like will help you spot it sooner rather than later so you can get your kitty the treatment she needs to get better, and so you can reduce the odds of the fungus spreading to the humans in your family and your other pets.

The Symptoms and Appearance of Ringworm

Ringworm is usually detected when cat owners notice skin lesions, typically occurring on the forelimbs, ears, and head, or bald, flaky patches of skin that could be red in appearance.

Mild cases could result in dandruff or localized redness of the skin. Severe cases could spread to multiple areas of the pet’s body.

Other symptoms include rounded, knotty, raised lesions that can ooze, and there could also be inflammation within the folds of the skin. However, some kitties might carry the ringworm spores without showing any symptoms.

In terms of the length of time it typically takes to see symptoms after a cat has been infected with ringworm, the incubation period might be anywhere from one week to two weeks, but it might even take as long as three weeks before you start to notice any signs on your kitty’s body that she has ringworm.

How Ringworm Is Spread

Coming into direct contact with ringworm can cause it to spread from one animal to another. This can occur by petting a cat with ringworm or by touching objects or surfaces that have been contaminated with ringworm spores. The spores can remain on objects and surfaces for as long as 18 months, but you can kill them with a mix of water and chlorine bleach.

Related: What Is Toxoplasmosis?

It’s important to note that contact with the fungus doesn’t always cause infection, as the amount of contamination is a factor in the development of an infection. Also, healthy adults are typically resistant unless there’s a break in their skin. Young children, adults with skin sensitivities or compromised immune systems, and the elderly are more susceptible.

A cat with ringworm will be contagious for roughly three weeks, provided that aggressive treatment is pursued. If treatment is not administered properly, the fungus could remain contagious for longer and the infection will likely last longer.

How Ringworm Is Diagnosed

If you notice symptoms of ringworm on your cat, bring her to the vet right away. Your vet may use a Wood’s lamp, which is a UV light, to see if the ringworm glows under the light in a dark room. This might be all it takes to diagnose ringworm, but it may not work every time at providing accurate answers.

Another method that your vet may use to diagnose ringworm involves taking a culture and sending it to a lab for testing. Your vet might take a sample of your cat’s skin or fur to test it and see if ringworm is indeed the problem.

Note: Other tests might also be used to be sure that other conditions aren’t to blame for your kitty’s symptoms.

Treatments for Ringworm

Once diagnosed, your vet will likely prescribe topical treatments and/or oral medications that will kill the fungus. It is also necessary to thoroughly clean the environment that your cat spends time in in order to remove the spores there.

To prevent the spread of ringworm to the people and other pets in your household, your vet may also recommend quarantining your infected cat for a period of time while she is being treated.

Treated properly, your cat may recover from this fungal infection in a few weeks. In the event that it does not clear, your vet might try other antifungal prescriptions.

Also note that the lesions might not change in appearance too much during the first week of treatment, but within two or three weeks, you should notice improvement. Just be sure to continue the treatment for as long as your vet prescribed, as stopping it too soon could cause the symptoms to recur. The symptoms might also recur if the prescription wasn’t aggressive enough or your cat is suffering from an underlying condition that is compromising her immune system.

After you have started treating the infection, your vet should see your cat again to determine if the ringworm has been completely eliminated.

Again, knowing what ringworm looks like is your first step in being able to recognize it as soon as possible. And because this fungus can spread to humans, it’s important to get treatment right away, follow your vet’s advice closely, and practice good hygiene and environmental disinfection until your cat recovers.

How to Keep Your Home Clean During a Ringworm Infection

As mentioned above, thoroughly cleaning the environment that an animal is in is part of the strategy of getting rid of ringworm and preventing it from spreading. Your vet can guide you when it comes to what you should be doing to keep your home as clean as possible until the ringworm is gone.

If your cat has spent time on anything that can be washed, such as bedding, you can put those materials in your washing machine. You might want to run them on a long cycle before drying them in the dryer.

When it comes to floors, furniture, and surfaces, it’s best to work on removing hair and other debris by using a vacuum and/or damp mop. And you can use a disinfecting cleaner that could get rid of fungus too (just read the directions on a cleaning product to use it properly and safely).

A Ringworm Diagnosis Isn’t as Bad as You Might Think

A lot of people get frazzled when they learn their fur baby or a kitty that they’re rescuing has been diagnosed with ringworm. But this is something that’s treatable, so there’s no need to feel like you don’t have any control over the situation. Working closely with your veterinarian, and taking steps to treat your pet and clean their environment to avoid the spread of ringworm, can make a big difference in how quickly you can tackle this problem.

Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

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What You Don’t Know About Addison’s Disease In Dogs

Get all the info you need to know regarding Addison’s Disease in dogs You’ve just been handed a diagnosis from the vet – your dog has Addison’s Disease. Don’t panic! We’re going to go over Addison’s Disease in dogs, so you can better understand it and help your dog live a normal, active life. What is Addison’s Disease in Dogs? Also known as hypoadrenocorticism or adrenal insufficiency, Addison’s Disease in dogs comes with a host of symptoms that can also be similar to other illnesses. This can make diagnosis difficult, but once it has been singled out, your dog can get back to living his life. This is an endocrine system disorder that is caused when the adrenal glands can’t produce enough hormones for normal function. There is one adrenal on each kidney and each is comprised of two layers: the cortex and the medulla. The cortex is the outer area and it secretes corticosteriod hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone. The medulla, which is part of the sympathetic nervous system, secretes adrenaline (epinephrine), which is usually not affected by Addison’s Disease. These hormones are critical to your dog’s health. If there is an increase or decrease of these hormones, it can lead to serious health problems if not addressed in time. There are three types of Addison’s disease: primary, secondary and atypical. In the cases of primary and atypical Addison’s Disease, these are generally the cause of immune related damage to the glands. The secondary type is the result of the pituitary not being able to stimulate the adrenals with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). What Dogs are Susceptible to Addison’s Disease? Addison’s Disease is rare in dogs. However, it is most often seen in young to middle-aged dogs and female dogs. Breeds that are more susceptible to Addison’s include Rottweilers, Wheaten Terriers, Bearded Collies, Standard Poodles, Portuguese Water Dogs and West Highland White Terriers. Symptoms of Addison’s Disease in Dogs The following is a list of common symptoms of Addison’s Disease: Lack of appetiteWeight lossLethargyVomiting and diarrheaShakingIncreased thirst and frequency of urinationDehydrationWeak pulseLow temperatureBlood in fecesHair lossAbdomen pain Treating and Living with Addison’s Disease in Dogs Addison’s must be treated immediately upon discovery. Depending on the type and severity of symptoms, the treatment for this disease will vary. If your dog is dehydrated, he will need to be given intravenous fluids. As well, a diagnosed dog will need hormone injections for the rest of his life. Once your dog has recovered from his initial treatments, management of Addison’s Disease will begin. You will have to visit your vet on a weekly basis for at least four weeks for hormone therapy. After that, you’ll only have to go in once a month for injections. As long as you follow the vet’s orders and follow up with treatment, there’s no reason why your dog can live a happy life.

What You Should Know About Heartworm in Cats

When the mosquitos wake up from their winter sleep, it signals the start of when you need to prepare for heartworm in cats. Just like dogs, cats can become infected with heartworm. But cats are affected differently than dogs, so it’s important to be aware of what heartworm is, what causes it, and what symptoms can occur so you can protect your kitty as best as possible. What Is Heartworm? A cat develops heartworm when Dirofilaria immitis, a parasitic worm, get into his body through a mosquito bite. A mosquito can pick up heartworm larvae from an animal, such as a dog infected with heartworm, and then transfer those larvae into a cat’s bloodstream. It typically takes roughly eight months for heartworm larvae to develop within an infected cat’s body. The cycle starts within the subcutaneous tissues right under the cat’s skin, but then moves to the muscle tissues and eventually into the right ventricle of the heart, as well as the lungs and within arteries. Related: 3 Veterinary Tests That Every New Cat Should Get When the parasite matures, it remains, for the most part, within the pulmonary arteries rather than in the heart itself. These arteries carry blood from the heart into the lungs, so heartworm infection will also affect the lungs. What Are the Symptoms of Heartworm? Even before the worms are completely grown, they can begin causing problems, anywhere between 60-100 days after infection. When the worms enter the small arteries within the lungs, a severe inflammatory response occurs, causing damage to the arteries, alveoli, and brochioles. Some infected cats will clear the disease spontaneously, but the infection can steadily progress in many cases, causing nonspecific symptoms that could be very similar to other diseases. Seeing a vet promptly if symptoms occur is the best way to prevent damage and stop this potentially life-threatening infection before it’s too late. Symptoms of heartworm disease in cats include: CoughingAsthma-like attacks, difficulty breathingLack of appetiteWeight lossDiarrheaBlindnessRapid heart rateLethargyVomitingFainting, convulsions, difficulty walkingFluid accumulation within the abdomen, chylothorax These signs could be quite dramatic or very subtle. Also, for some cats, sudden collapse or death is the first sign that there was a problem all along. How Is Heartworm Diagnosed and Treated? A vet will typically use blood tests, including a heartworm antibody test and a heartworm antigen test, as well as x-rays and ultrasound imaging, to determine if heartworm infection is present. Related: What You Should Know About Feline Pancreatitis Unfortunately, the same treatments that can be used in dogs who are infected with heartworm can’t be used in cats. Currently, there is no medication available that has been approved for treating feline heartworm disease. In terms of treatment options, if a cat is diagnosed with heartworm but is not exhibiting severe symptoms, he can be monitored closely to see whether the disease will resolve spontaneously. In instances when a vet has found signs that the disease is within the lungs and blood vessels, the cat could be monitored using x-rays. Also, in felines with clinically confirmed lung disease, supportive therapy with prednisone may be used. In felines that show apparent symptoms of heartworm, more supportive therapy, such as oxygen therapy, antibiotics, cardiovascular drugs, and fluids, might be prescribed. The hope is that, by treating the symptoms, the cat could outlive the worms, which can survive in the pet’s body for roughly two to three years. Therefore, long-term treatment is necessary. Is There a Way to Prevent Heartworm in Cats? Pet owners can routinely apply medications that are specifically designed for preventing heartworm infection in felines. You can also decrease the risk of a cat becoming infected with heartworm by keeping him indoors at all times, as this will reduce his exposure to mosquitoes. Because heartworm is such a serious disease, not only in dogs, but also in cats, it’s important to take steps to prevent infection, as well as get prompt treatment if symptoms occur. Talk to your vet to determine which heartworm prevention medication is best for your pet.

What You Need to Know About Feline Anemia

Just like the human affliction, feline anemia needs to be treated by a veterinarian. Look for these symptoms if you think your cat suffers from anemia. Anemia in cats occurs when there’s a reduction in the number of circulating hemoglobin, red blood cells, or both. Rather than being a specific disease, anemia is the result of other medical conditions. Severe anemia will need to be treated by a veterinarian immediately, as it is life threatening. But if your cat is diagnosed with mild anemia, it can be managed with the proper treatment and care. The first step in keeping your cat healthy is understanding what feline anemia is caused by, as well as its symptoms. In this way, you can get your cat the right treatment as soon as possible. Related: What Is Toxoplasmosis? The Causes of Feline Anemia There are several diseases that can result in anemia, and they can be grouped into those that cause hemolysis (breakdown and destruction of red blood cells), those that cause blood loss, and those that reduce the production of red blood cells. More specifically, some of the many causes of anemia are: Severe flea infestation, particularly in kittensCancerKidney diseaseViruses, such as FeLV or FIVParasitic infectionImmune-mediated diseaseExposure to toxins The Symptoms of Feline Anemia Being aware of the potential causes of feline anemia is one thing, but knowing what the symptoms of anemia are is the best way to catch it as early as possible. The most common symptom of anemia is the development of pale gums. If you were to check your cat’s gums, you would notice that the healthy pink color is no longer there and that the gums range in color from white to pale pink. Another common symptom of an anemic cat is lethargy. Your kitty may have low amounts of energy and stamina, and may appear listless and also get tired more easily than usual. Your cat may also have a decreased appetite. Related: What You Don’t Know About Ringworm in Cats Treatment Options If the symptoms above are present, your cat’s vet will perform tests that may include blood tests, urinalysis, imaging, tests for parasites and bacteria, biopsy, and tests for viruses. The results of these tests, along with a physical examination, will be used to determine if anemia is to blame for your kitty’s symptoms. And, based upon the results, your vet will then come up with the appropriate treatment plan. If the anemia is severe, to the point that it is threatening your cat’s life, your vet will likely order a blood transfusion so that the body can be stabilized until your vet can figure out exactly what is causing the anemia. If treatments have already been administered, the blood transfusion will also provide stability until those treatments start taking effect. After the underlying cause of your cat’s anemia has been determined, your vet will prescribe the appropriate remedies. These could range from corticosteroids and de-worming medications, to other medications and surgery. Prognosis In terms of prognosis, if your kitty has suffered from severe trauma, has cancer or an autoimmune disease, or is anemic due to exposure to toxins, the prognosis may be less favorable. On the other hand, if your cat is diagnosed early enough and is in relatively good health despite the anemia, the prognosis may be more favorable. Preventing Anemia There are some steps that you can take to reduce the risk of your cat becoming anemic. For example, to prevent viruses like FIV and FeLV, you should keep your cat indoors, and have all of the kitties in your family tested for these viruses. Keeping your pet safely inside your home will also reduce the risk of her contracting parasites and fleas that could lead to anemia. And regular checkups with your vet will help you catch early signs of anemia before the condition progresses. As an informed pet parent, you can recognize the symptoms of anemia sooner rather than later, and you’ll be able to get your cat the treatment that she needs without wasting any time.

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5 Feline Skin Conditions You Should Know About

Have you noticed any changes in your cat’s skin and coat? These five common skin conditions can signal health problems in your kitty. Your cat’s skin could tell you a lot about his overall health, so it’s important to take note if you see your kitty constantly licking, biting, or scratching himself in an attempt to get relief, or if you notice that your cat’s skin looks inflamed, has scabs, or has patches without fur. Below are a few of the many skin diseases that can affect felines so you can recognize a problem as early on as possible and get your kitty the veterinary treatment he needs to get better. Alopecia (Hair Loss) While it’s normal for your kitty to shed some fur, it isn’t normal when he begins losing more hair than what’s normal for him, and it’s especially abnormal if he develops bald spots. Alopecia, also known as hair loss, should be examined by a veterinarian, as it could be a symptom of illness, as well as a sign of poor nutrition, allergies, stress or anxiety, or parasites. Related: How to Choose the Right Scratching Post for Your Cat Flaky Skin If you start noticing that your kitty has persistent dandruff, or flaky skin that’s appearing on his fur, it’s a good idea to have him examined by a vet to determine the cause. Some cats will end up getting dry and flaky skin during the winter, in particular, so knowing what’s normal for your pet is also helpful. But if the dandruff doesn’t go away, it could be a sign that your cat isn’t grooming himself enough, that there is an underlying condition that needs to be treated, or that he isn’t getting adequate nutrition. A diet change or supplementation with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids may be all that’s needed, or your vet may recommend specialized shampoos or other remedies, depending upon the cause. Related: What You Don’t Know About Ringworm in Cats Bacterial Skin Infections Bacterial skin infections can occur because of another skin problem. So, for example, if your kitty has feline acne, the hair follicles on his chin could become susceptible to infection, leading to folliculitis. Symptoms of bacterial skin infections include itchiness, alopecia, lesions, crusted skin, pustules, and dried discharge. The good news is that, should you notice any signs of bacterial skin infections, your vet will be able to provide you with antibiotics that will help clear the condition, and you’ll also be given the right guidance to address the underlying cause(s) of the bacterial infection so that a recurrence can be prevented. Allergic Dermatitis Allergic dermatitis could be the result of your kitty being allergic to anything from environmental irritants like pollen, to flea bites, food, or grooming products. Your vet will help you find the cause of your cat’s discomfort. For example, if your pet is always scratching his neck or head, he may be suffering with food allergies. If he’s always chewing on the base of his tail or on his paws, on the other hand, there might be other allergies to blame. Allergic dermatitis could result in skin lesions or hair loss, and this could occur anywhere on your pet’s body, including his belly. It may be difficult to determine the cause, but working with your vet could help, and the doctor can prescribe soothing remedies in the meantime. Once the culprit is found, avoiding exposure to the allergen(s) could prevent problems from recurring. Ringworm Ringworm is a fungus that can affect kitties, causing circular lesions, usually on the ears, forelimbs, and head. The skin surrounding the lesions is typically bald and flaky. If you notice signs of ringworm on your cat, bring him to the vet right away, as this fungus is contagious and could spread to the people and pets in your family. Your vet will prescribe the treatment, which could include ointments, oral medications, and shampoos, to remove the fungus as soon as possible. These are just a few of the many feline skin conditions that can occur. If you ever notice any changes in your cat’s skin and coat, have him examined by your vet to determine the cause and get the right treatment plan to bring your kitty’s skin back to a healthy state.

Working Dog Gets Stolen and Dropped in a Shelter 700 Miles From Home

We all love our pooches, don’t we? It’s impossible to imagine that someone would be capable of stealing your four-legged companion. But, sadly many dogs get stolen every day. That’s exactly what happened to Hank, a 12-year-old McNab mix, who was working on a ranch in Oregon.The woman who brought Hank to the St. George Animal Shelter told the staff that she had found the dog locally. However, Hank was more than 700 miles away from home!“He was a working dog,” said Animal Service Officer Supervisor Cathy Freitas to St. George News. The pooch was found on a ranch in Oregon and driven to St. George by a woman who lied to the shelter staff and said that she found the dog in the local area. “The dog was absolutely well cared for and happy,” Freitas added. “And the person who saw it assumed otherwise and thought rather than going to the authorities and saying ‘I found a dog,’ she intentionally drove the dog from that area because she didn’t want it to go back to the owner thinking that it wasn’t well taken care of because it was outside… Not every dog is going to be happy lying on your couch and eating snacks.”The shelter posted a photo of Hank on social media, hoping someone would recognize him. Luckily, the post reached the right people, and a person in Idaho recognized the pooch. Soon, everything became much clearer.As it happens, Hanks was with his family for a long time, and they missed him terribly. Unfortunately, Hank’s owners didn’t know where to start looking for him because the people who took him had driven so far away. When the shelter got ahold of the owners, they immediately got into their vehicle and drove 700 miles to get their dog. That’s 1,400 miles round trip - a sure proof of the love and dedication that they have for their pooch.The owners explained that Hank is in the fifth generation of McNab dogs bred to work on the family’s ranch. People should know that there are working dogs, Freitas explained. These dogs are bred and trained to work and that’s where they feel the most comfortable and happy. If you happen to find a dog near livestock, there’s a good chance that it’s a working dog, and it’s best not to approach it. If the dog seems neglected or injured, contact Animal Services or nonemergency dispatch. This way the local authorities can check on the dog and get a hold of its owner. When it comes to Hank, the St. George Animal Shelter wouldn’t be able to hold his owners accountable if he had been neglected or abused because they are outside of the St. George Police Department’s jurisdiction.  The police from the dog’s hometown wouldn’t have been notified, giving the family a chance to adopt another dog.Taking a dog like this is extremely stressful for them and their family, but it can also put their herd at risk, as they would be without a guardian and more likely to become prey. Luckily, this story has a happy ending and Hank is back on the ranch, helping his owners with livestock. His family could press charges against the woman who took him, even though she might have had the dog’s best interest at heart. At the end of the day, she stole Hank and transported him across state lines. If you come across a dog herding livestock, stay a safe distance away and don’t offer any treats or food. According to Freitas, most working dogs aren’t aggressive towards people, but they can be if they sense their herd is at risk. Let’s not forget that working dogs aren’t house pets. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What You Need to Know About XL Bully Ban

American XL Bully dogs will be banned by the end of the year after numerous attacks were reported across the United Kingdom. The term "XL Bully" typically refers to a type of  American Bully breed known for its muscular build and larger size compared to standard American Bullies. These dogs are often selectively bred for their size, strength, and temperament, so while they are not inherently aggressive, they have the means to do some damage if they are reared to be dangerous.The ban has owners of bully breeds across the UK scared and confused, so here’s what you need to know about the details of this edict. Starting from December 31st, all XL Bullies will have to be kept on a lead and have a muzzle while in public. What is more, from this date it will be completely illegal to advertise, breed, sell, exchange, gift, or abandon or let stray any XL Bullies. In short – it is a decisive strike against this breed, as announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, earlier this year.Furthermore, a complete ban on people owning XL Bullies will come into force in the UK from February 1st, 2023. This had owners scared that their pets would have to be put down just because of their breed, but, luckily, that’s not the case. If the owner applies before the end of January, with the wish to keep their pet. With that, the household will receive an exemption certificate, but it will also have to comply with a very strict set of rules related to the breed. UK government department Defra has announced that it received more than 4,000 exemption applications so far and that a “majority” were approved. Their spokesperson said that “ "The majority of applications are successful and the majority of successful applicants are receiving their certificates in less than a week."This only supports the assurances that there will be no “forced” euthanization of these dogs. However, those people that do not apply for an exemption by the end of the deadline, will have to put their XL Bullies down. They will be granted £200 to cover the costs of a vet euthanizing their dog. Rescue and rehoming organizations can claim £100 per animal for the same purpose. The government's website states "the euthanasia must be performed by 31 January 2024" for these financial claims to be successful. Sadly, because of this new law, at least 246 XL Bullies will be put down in the coming period, as their owners did not apply for an exemption, or were not granted one. American XL Bullies are not the first dogs to be banned in the UK. Several breeds were banned in the past, and owning them is now completely illegal. These breeds include the  Pitbull terrier,  Japanese Tosa,  Dogo Argentino, and  Fila Brasileiro. Owning a banned dog breed can get you in plenty of trouble, specifically an unlimited fine and a six-month prison sentence. 

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What Is Scent Enrichment for Cats?

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Blue Ridge Beef Recalls Kitten and Puppy Food Due to Bacteria

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. 

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What Is Pyoderma In Dogs?

The sight of an itchy dog often raises concerns among pet parents. From parasites, like fleas and ticks, to uncomfortable skin issues and irritation, the explanation is rarely a positive one. In some cases, even finding a cause is an uphill battle. One condition you may have read about or heard your veterinarian mention is pyoderma. But what is pyoderma, and what does this mean for your best friend? In this article, we will dive deep into the world of dog skin issues, uncovering not only the warning signs and possible causes of pyoderma in dogs but also the steps you can take to offer some much-needed relief from the itch and irritation. Let’s get started… What is Pyoderma? Pyoderma is a term used to refer to a bacterial skin infection, with the word literally translating to “pus (pyo) in the skin (derma).” It is one of the most common dog skin conditions. Luckily, it is also often easy to treat once it has been diagnosed. Most dogs recover fully with the proper medication. The condition is classified into one of three types based on its location in or on the skin. They include: Surface Pyoderma: infections on top of the skin’s surfaceSuperficial Pyoderma: infections in the outermost layer of the skin, including in the hair follicles (which may be referred to as superficial bacterial folliculitis)Deep Pyoderma: infections in the deeper layers of the skinThe condition itself isn’t always visible, making it sometimes difficult to spot. This is why it is so important for dog parents to familiarize themselves with the warning signs of skin irritation and seek veterinary help. They can do the tests necessary to look beyond what is visible to the naked eye. What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs? Every healthy dog has bacteria on the surface of their skin. When a dog’s skin becomes irritated for any reason, they respond by scratching at the spot. This creates openings in the layers of the skin where the bacteria can move deeper, creating the perfect environment for them to grow and thrive. There are several potential triggers for the initial irritation, including: Environmental or seasonal allergies Food allergies Flea allergy dermatitis Chronic exposure to moisture (like skin folds)Seborrhea Impaired blood flow to the skin Endocrine disorders (Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease) It can also start when the skin is damaged due to an injury. Even a minor injury could cause just enough of an opening into the skin’s layers to begin the cycle. Is Dog Pyoderma Contagious to Humans? As this is a bacterial infection, it isn’t a risk of transmission like an airborne virus would be. Some strains of the bacteria can occasionally lead to an infection in humans or other dogs. However, the risk is incredibly low unless you have a compromised immune system. You can minimize the risk of transmission by focusing on keeping your home clean as your dog fights the infection. This includes regularly cleaning their food and water dishes as well as any bedding your dog sleeps on regularly. If you have an open wound, keep it covered when spending time with your infected dog.

A Pennsylvania Dog Shocked Its Owners After Eating $4000 in Cash

A Pittsburg couple was shocked to discover that their dog Cecil decided to have the most expensive snack of his life, after wolfing down $4,000 in cash. According to Cecil’s owners, Clayton and Carrie Law, the seven-year-old goldendoodle is a well-behaved boy who has never really done anything bad before. The couple had withdrawn cash to do a home improvement project, but Cecil had other plans for the envelope full of money. Less than 30 minutes later, Cecil was caught devouring thousands of dollars. “I walked back into the room and then all this cash was on the ground. He’s just like this, standing there, and I’m like oh my gosh, he ate some of this money and was in shock. I yelled to Carrie ‘He ate the money, he ate the $4,000,’” said Clayton Law to CBS News. After the initial shock, the couple discovered that Cecil ate a lot of the bills, but that some were still on the floor, albeit torn up and chewed into pieces. Carrie and Clayton describe their pooch as laid back, weird, funny, and almost human-like, and say that he is typically more of a snuggly couch potato. “He doesn’t do many dog things, he doesn’t chew furniture or clothing, that’s why we were extra shocked when he decided to do this,” said Clayton Law. “He has never in his life tried to get anything from the counter, even coffee table. We could leave dinner and go to the kitchen and grab wine, and he would not touch the food, and he just doesn’t care. He just took this opportunity and ran with it,” said Carrie Law. Once the initial shock passed, the couple contacted their vet to see if the dog needed any treatment. Given the goldendoodle’s size, there was no risk of bowel obstruction and he only needed to be monitored at home. At first, Cecil seemed fine, but in the middle of the night, the Laws were awoken by the sound every dog owner knows - the retching of their dog about to vomit. “When you hear that, you immediately just react, so I jumped out of bed and just made sure that he didn’t throw up anywhere,” said Clayton. “And then I went to pick it up… and I realized there’s a lot of like half eaten and $100 bills and $50 bills here.”That night marked the start of the Law’s unfortunate mission of sifting through their dog’s vomit and poop in an attempt to recover some of their money. Luckily, the couple was able to piece together most of the bills after carefully washing and sorting all the pieces back together. “There we are at the utility sink washing this shitty money, yelling ‘Yay! Yes! We got one!’ It smelled so bad,” Carries confessed. After piecing together as many bills as they could salvage, the couple managed to recoup $3,550. According to Carrie, the bank was really nice about it and told them that these things happen all the time. “They said it actually happens quite a bit because money just picks up so many scents, especially if it’s used in the food industry. I guess dogs pick up on that - they have such a good sense of smell - and something about it just drove him crazy.”Almost a month after the incident, Cecil is doing fine and is still a good boy. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Lost Service Dog Survived 2 Months Alone in the Colorado Mountains

It’s every dog parent’s nightmare. 14-month-old service dog in training Nova Riley slipped out of her harness and bolted out of a Safeway parking lot in a panic. After several sightings by the community as they searched tirelessly alongside owner Robynne Simons-Sealy, Nova continued to run in fear from anyone who attempted to catch her. After two long months of worrying and searching, Simons-Sealy was reunited with her beloved Bernese Mountain Dog. Nova was discovered injured in the woods of Meyers Ranch Park by two hikers on November 19th. The hikers recognized that she was injured, frightened, and needed help. They tried to carry her out to safely, but due to her high anxiety (understandable, given the situation), she bit one of her rescuers. Refusing to leave the poor dog behind, they decided to bring in help. One hiker stayed with Nova to keep her calm and assure her they weren’t giving up on her. The other hiker descended the trail to ask the park rangers for help and guide them, along with Animal Control Officer Kylie Rupe, three miles back to her position. “When we first got up there, I had brought treats and food up with me, knowing she would probably be very food-motivated at that point,” explained Rupe. “I used food to make friends, and she was very friendly but skittish.” With the help of both the rangers and animal control, Nova was carried to safety on a tarp. One of the rangers had recognized Nova from a lost dog poster, allowing her to be reunited with her worried and ever-grateful owner.

Lost Tortoise Found After 3 Years

A story about a lost tortoise in Florida proves that reunions can happen even years after losing a pet, and that social media can play a huge role in reconnecting people with their lost pets.

Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?

Final Thoughts - Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?Excessive barking can be frustrating and, if left unaddressed, can put you, as the owner, in a difficult situation. In some places, this can lead to fines or even eviction due to noise complaints. Unfortunately, the process of training a dog to stop barking isn’t one that is usually solved overnight – but it can be done! While you might have seen it recommended to use an “anti-bark” muzzle to stop your dog’s barking, it is not recommended for anything more than a 10 to 15-minute quick fix. Not only does it not teach your dog not to bark in the future, but the muzzle's design could create a dangerous situation. Instead, start by identifying the cause. Is your dog overly excited? Is there a trigger that makes them feel fearful and stressed? Are they trying to protect you when someone walks onto your property? Knowing the trigger will help you not only stop it but also manage your dog’s barking in the short term. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a professional trainer or certified behaviorist to offer guidance and direction. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Senior Leaves $2.8 Million Estate to Pets, Not Kids

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How Do I Choose the Best Muzzle for My Dog?

With the news of the recent American Bully XL ban in the UK, conversations around dog muzzles have been popping up all over social media. The growing discussion has opened the door for dog owners in the United States to consider the benefits of using a muzzle for their own dogs for many reasons, including scavenging, reactivity, and even short-term use for veterinary and grooming appointments. But with so many different styles of muzzle on the market, how do you choose the best muzzle for your dog? We have you covered! In this guide, we will discuss the different muzzle types available, what each type is best suited for, and the proper fit of a dog muzzle. Plus, I will share which muzzle we currently use with our reactive dog, Lucifer, and why. Let’s get started… Things to Consider When Shopping for a Muzzle for Your Dog When selecting a muzzle for your dog, there is no singular “best option” that will work for every dog and situation. On one hand, this can be frustrating as it leaves you feeling overwhelmed navigating the wide assortment of options. On the other hand, it means you can purchase a muzzle uniquely suited for your dog’s needs. Here are a few key factors to consider when making your decision: MaterialThere are several materials to consider when shopping for a muzzle, including metal, plastic, rubber, vinyl, leather, Biothane, fabric, silicone, and more. To determine the best option for your dog, there are a few critical deciding factors: Do you need a muzzle that can prevent a determined dog from biting? Will your dog be wearing the muzzle outdoors in the elements? Is weight a factor for your dog? Does your dog engage in “muzzle punching” when wearing a muzzle (ramming into people with the muzzle)? Will your dog likely shove the muzzle into the dirt while trying to smell the ground? It is important to note that most muzzles are not considered “bite-proof.” This means they shouldn’t be relied on to prevent a bite from occurring. If you are muzzling as a safety precaution due to a bite risk, the best options are vinyl or wire basket muzzles. Ease of Use Like harnesses and collars, some dogs make fastening a muzzle easy, while others can make the process a challenge. This doesn’t necessarily mean they dislike the muzzle or aren’t properly conditioned to the muzzle. For example, if our boy Lucifer is overly excited about going somewhere, he sometimes gets the zoomies. He usually will stand still to let us buckle his muzzle, but it’s hard to control the zoomies when they hit! A muzzle with a quick-release buckle will be your best option if that sounds familiar. This is faster to secure than a traditional threaded buckle. Airflow One primary concern for those considering muzzling their dogs is the airflow that they will offer, and for good reason! This is especially important if your dog is going to be active while wearing the muzzle. Wire basket muzzles are often a favorite for high-energy dogs, allowing for uninterrupted airflow and making it easy for your dog to drink while wearing it. In comparison, leather and Biothane muzzles, especially those designed to prevent scavengers from being able to pick up “goodies” on their walks, generally limit airflow. Carefully consider your dog’s lifestyle and the situations where a muzzle may be needed.

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