Cat Vomiting Bile: A Cause for Concern?

by Lisa Selvaggio

Published: August 21st, 2019

It’s gross, but is it a cause for concern? When your cat vomits bile, you need to know what it means and what you should do.

If your cat is vomiting bile—the yellow-green liquid that the liver produces in order to aid digestion—you might be wondering if it’s normal or if you should take your pet to the vet. We’ve compiled a bit of information below to help you better understand what might be to blame when your kitty vomits bile, but it’s always a great idea to consult with your veterinarian for personalized guidance whenever you have questions about your cat’s symptoms.

Why a Cat Would Vomit Bile

Experts aren’t entirely sure if there’s an exact cause that leads to a cat vomiting up bile, but this symptom may develop when a kitty has gastrointestinal motility issues. Basically, the bile gets into the stomach even though it isn’t supposed to be there, so it ends up irritating the stomach, which results in the body getting rid of the bile through vomiting.

Related: Home Remedies for Cat Vomiting

Your vet can also examine your kitty to figure out if there is an underlying condition causing inflammation of the stomach or intestine that’s affecting motility.

What Are Some Symptoms to Look Out For?

You might notice that your cat vomits bile late at night or early in the morning, and it might happen right before it’s time for her to eat. This is more common in kitties that are only fed one time per day.

In addition to the vomiting, there might also be other signs that your pet isn’t feeling well. For example, you might notice that your cat doesn’t have much of an appetite, and she might even be losing weight. There might be nausea, along with abdominal discomfort, and the intermittent vomiting of bile might become increasingly more common.

What Can Be Done for a Cat That’s Vomiting Bile?

Dietary changes may be a good place to start if your cat is vomiting bile. Your vet might recommend feeding your kitty wet food, as well as foods that contain the right balance of nutrients, such as fiber and fat, in an effort to improve digestion.

Also, feeding smaller meals more frequently throughout the day might be a good idea to help reduce or eliminate the vomiting. Doing so could help prevent your pet’s stomach from being left empty for too long, and that may help improve motility as well.

Remember, your veterinarian can check your pet to figure out if there’s an underlying health condition that’s causing your pet to vomit bile. If that’s the case, treating the problem will be where you’ll start. But, if nothing serious is to blame, your vet might prescribe treatments that can help support your cat’s digestive health, such as medications that improve motility or medicines that help reduce the amount of acid that’s secreted.

Bottom line: your vet will be able to determine what medications and dietary changes, if any, would be appropriate for your unique kitty’s condition.

Remember, It’s Always Best to Ask a Vet

It’s wise to take vomiting, especially of bile, seriously. Whenever your cat is exhibiting symptoms that are worrisome, such as throwing up bile, it’s best to talk to your vet about what could be causing this problem, as well as what you can do to resolve it. That way, you can give your kitty what she needs to improve her digestion and feel better.

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 Causes Diarrhea in Cats?

Diarrhea in cats can signal a host of health or diet issues. To ensure your kitty gets the help she needs, here’s what you need to know about diarrhea in cats. Your cat’s stool can reveal a lot about her health, so keeping an eye on what’s going on in the litter box could be helpful when it comes to keeping your kitty healthy and happy. One problem that you might notice is diarrhea. What can cause diarrhea to occur? Below are a few of the many culprits that might be to blame, but keep in mind that if your pet is experiencing diarrhea that won’t go away, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian, who can examine your cat, diagnose the problem, and provide the appropriate treatment to help your furry friend feel better. Related: Cat Vomiting Bile: A Cause for Concern? A Change in Diet or a Food Allergy Your cat’s diarrhea might be caused by a change in her diet. Have you switched to a different food recently? If the change was too abrupt, your pet’s body might not have had enough time to adjust, resulting in loose stools. For this reason, experts recommend slowly transitioning from one food to another over the course of several days, as doing so gives your cat’s body time to get used to the new food. Also, if your kitty is allergic or has an intolerance to certain ingredients in her food, she might have diarrhea as a side effect. Working with your vet can help you figure out if there are any food allergies causing your pet’s digestive ailments. Eliminating those allergens might be all that you need to do to resolve the problem. And it’s worth mentioning that a cat might have diarrhea if she ate something she wasn’t supposed to, so if you know there aren’t any allergens in her food and you haven’t switched her diet, consider whether or not she might’ve eaten something she shouldn’t have. Dairy products, for example, might lead to digestive upset, but toxic substances and foreign objects might also cause diarrhea. Parasites or Infections Parasites, worms, viral infections, and bacterial infections might also be the cause of diarrhea. Your vet can test your pet’s stool to see if any parasites or worms are present, and then provide the right treatment to get rid of them. In the same way, your vet can diagnose an infection and give you the correct medications to help your kitty’s body get back to a state of balance. Medical Disorders There are various medical disorders that can cause diarrhea as a symptom. These include, but are not limited to, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatic disease, hyperthyroidism, colitis, and cancer. For this reason, if your cat is having diarrhea frequently or it isn’t going away, it’s smart to have a chat with your vet to figure out the exact cause. When to See the Vet It’s wise to give your vet a call for advice if your cat has diarrhea that lasts more than one or two days, or if the diarrhea recurs. Also, call the vet right away if other symptoms, such as loss of appetite, vomiting, fever, or sluggishness, are present along with the diarrhea. And if the diarrhea is bloody or black, contact your vet right away to make an appointment for your cat. Don’t Take It Lightly Diarrhea in cats might only last for a short amount of time and resolve on its own, such as when it’s caused by stress, or it might point to a more serious underlying issue. No matter what, keep a close eye on your cat’s litter box to see if she’s having diarrhea. And if it’s happening frequently or for an extended period of time, be sure to make an appointment with your veterinarian to get answers.

How to Make a Cat Poop When Constipated

When your cat’s all bunged up, what do you do to unplug the blockage? Here’s how to make a cat poop when constipated. Just like people, cats can get constipated every now and then. And we all know how uncomfortable that can be! Thankfully, there are several things that you can do to help your kitty go to the litter box when she’s blocked up. Check out the tips below to help gets things moving again, but keep in mind that, if your kitty is having a lot of trouble passing stool, a chat with your veterinarian is necessary for your pet’s wellbeing. Related: What Causes Diarrhea in Cats? Diet and Hydration Boosting the amount of water in your kitty’s diet is one of the first steps that you can consider taking when she’s constipated. You could, for example, add some water to the food that you’re feeding, or you could switch to canned food. If your kitty deals with constipation often, and she’s on a dry food diet, transitioning to moisture-rich canned food might be just what she needs. Do so gradually—perhaps even over the course of months—to get your pet used to the change if she isn’t too keen on eating wet food at first. Related: Cat Vomiting Bile: A Cause for Concern? You might even try adding more water bowls throughout your home, such as in areas where your pet spends a lot of time, to help ensure that she’s properly hydrated. And you could even add some extra flavor to your pet’s water by mixing in some juice from a can of cat food. Doing so might encourage your kitty to drink more water. Some felines even prefer drinking out of a source of moving water, such as fountain designed for cats. Movement Through Play Another way to encourage your kitty to have a bowel movement is by giving her new toys that she can play with. Spending more time playing with your cat is mutually beneficial, as it’s fun to watch your pet’s acrobatics, and it also helps ensure that your pet is getting some much-needed exercise. Plus, helping your kitty maintain a healthy weight might also reduce or prevent constipation. In addition to giving your furry friend a variety of toys that encourage stalking, jumping, and running, you might also consider adding a cat tree or two to your home, as that will give her the chance to climb as well. Supplements to Consider There are some supplements that you could add to your cat’s food when she’s constipated, but it really is best to consult with your vet before doing so. You want to be absolutely sure that a supplement will be safe, and that you will be providing the appropriate dosage for safety and effectiveness. On top of that, it’s highly recommended that you use the highest quality supplements, and it’s wise to find out if a new supplement will interact with any other supplements or medications that your pet is currently taking. A couple of examples of supplements that may help with constipation in felines are coconut fiber and psyllium. Another good option might be coconut oil, particularly if hairballs are playing a role in the constipation. Other that that, natural laxatives, such as aloe vera juice, might be recommended by your vet as well. And some vets might even recommend wheat bran or canned pumpkin. In addition to natural supplements, there are also products that you can purchase over-the-counter to help your kitty go to the bathroom. A couple of examples include Miralax and Metamucil. Again, you should talk to your veterinarian first to be absolutely sure a product will be appropriate for your unique cat. Professional Treatments from a Vet Professional treatments, such as intravenous fluids or enemas, might be prescribed by your vet to get things moving. (Note: you should never administer an enema yourself.) Beyond that, your vet might prescribe a product like lactulose to help soften your pet’s stool, or you might need to switch your pet’s diet to one that has the right amount of fiber to support your cat’s digestive system. Remember: treating your kitty for constipation at home is best done under the guidance of your veterinarian. If home remedies don’t help your cat go, or it’s been over 48 hours since your pet had a bowel movement, it’s time to have her examined to figure out if there are any underlying conditions that might be to blame. And if there are underlying medical problems causing the constipation, the treatment will depend on the diagnosis.

How to Exercise Your Dog Indoors

Your dog needs daily exercise, but when it’s too cold, snowing, or raining, you shouldn’t let them spend too much time outside; instead, it’s best to bring the fun indoors. Whether you live in an apartment or a large house, there are simple and creative ways to help your canine companion get the physical exercise and mental stimulation they want and need.If you’re stumped when it comes to how to exercise your dog indoors, here are a few ideas to help you get started, along with some product recommendations that are worth considering.Indoor FetchWho says you can’t play fetch with your dog indoors? As long as you have a decent amount of space, you can toss a ball or toy for your pet to chase, grab, and bring back to you. Some people will use a hallway to give their dog enough room to run and grab their toy, but it really depends on your home and its layout. If you don’t have a large room with enough open space, you might need to move some furniture around temporarily, but it will be worth it.A good toy to consider for this is the Chuckit! Indoor Ball. It’s designed specifically for indoor use, and features textured chenille that’s soft and lightweight so you can toss it and let it bounce softly to entice your dog to grab it. Puppies and adult dogs of all sizes are sure to love it, and the multi-layered construction helps it withstand your pet’s teeth so this toy can last.

Do Dogs Cry Tears?

Perhaps you spotted tears streaming from your pet’s eyes and wondered: do dogs cry tears as an emotional response? Or is there a different explanation for this phenomenon? Well, the answer is pretty straightforward – dogs don’t produce tears because of their emotions like we humans do. They produce tears primarily to lubricate their eyes, and remove dust and other irritants. But, this does not mean that they don’t express emotions in other ways – here’s what you need to know about your teary-eyed furball.Do Dogs Cry Real Tears?If you spot tears running from your dog’s eyes, you are not deceived – they are real. However, they are not tears of sadness or emotion, as dogs simply don’t express feelings the same way as we do. The role of those tears is more of a bodily function. They are there to lubricate the eye, making sure it functions as it should. After all, dogs can just rub their eyes or place a few drops inside when needed. So, their body does the job for them, and hence the tears. Of course, an excessive amount of tears is not natural. And neither are dry and tearless eyes. So, in either one of these cases, you should schedule a visit with your vet. Dry eyes in dogs are also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) or "dry eye syndrome," and can lead to discomfort, irritation, and potential complications if left untreated. In many cases of dry eyes, veterinarians prescribe artificial tears or  lubricating eye drops to help moisturize the eyes and relieve discomfort. These drops can help supplement the natural tear production and provide relief from dryness. 

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How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?

Spending time outside is very important for overall physical and mental health, both for humans and animals alike. Our pets, dogs especially, can be quite dependent on the time they spend outdoors. It helps stimulate them, keep them mobile and active, and also helps them spend all that extra energy they have stored which in turn impacts their behavior for the better. But as it is with everything in life, there is always too little and too much of a good thing. So in the end, it does make you wonder – just how much outdoor time does your dog need? And, can you really overdo it? Let’s find out!How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?The amount of outdoor time your dog needs can vary based on factors such as their breed, age, health, and individual preferences of your dog. It can’t really be the exact same for all dogs out there. Just like humans, some pooches have preferences of their own. Some love to snooze and relax, and aren’t really fans of going outside and zooming about. Others, however, can’t get enough of adventures in the great outdoors. Still, in general, all dogs require at least a small amount of daily outdoor exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. With that in mind, these are some main factors that could influence the amount of time your pet needs to spend outside of the house:BreedDifferent breeds have different energy levels and exercise requirements. High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Labrador Retrievers may need more outdoor time compared to lower-energy breeds like Bulldogs or Basset Hounds. As you get to know your pet and the specifics of their breed, this too will become apparent. AgeAge plays a major role in dog energy levels. Puppies generally have more energy and may require several short play and exercise sessions throughout the day. Adult dogs on the other hand usually need at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise per day, depending on the breed and individual needs, whereas seniors usually don’t have as much energy so one walk a day will do just fine for a pooch in his golden years.HealthDogs with certain health issues may have specific exercise restrictions. Consult with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate exercise plan for a dog with health concerns. Don’t overdo it with your dog, if the vet prohibits it. The same goes for seniors, who can’t really play all that much outside. SizeDog size is a big factor in determining energy levels and the need for outdoor fun. Smaller breeds may get sufficient exercise with a shorter walk or playtime, while larger breeds might need longer and more vigorous activities.Individual PreferencesSome dogs are more active and enjoy activities like fetching, running, or hiking, while others may be content with a shorter walk or playtime in the yard. On the other hand, some breeds, due to their inherent traits, might love relaxing outside, even when it's chilly. Others, though, will love the warmth and coziness found indoors. 

Does Your Dog Have What it Takes to Be a B.A.R.K. Ranger?

Is your dog your favorite adventure buddy? Do you dream of exploring America’s National Parks system with your furry best friend by your side? While many parks have limitations on where dogs are allowed, the popularity of pet-friendly travel is on the rise. In response, the U.S. National Park Service introduced a program to teach dog parents how to travel with their pups responsibly – the B.A.R.K. Ranger Program. But does your dog have what it takes to be a B.A.R.K. Ranger? What is involved in earning that title anyway? In this article, we will break down the B.A.R.K. principles and why they are so important for responsible outdoor travel. We will also share tips for helping your dog become a certified B.A.R.K. ranger. What Does the Acronym “B.A.R.K.” Stand For? Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is the B.A.R.K. Ranger program, and what does the acronym “B.A.R.K.” stand for? Recognizing that a growing number of dog parents wanted to bring their pups with them when visiting the parks, the U.S. National Park Service recognized a need for education on how to travel with dogs responsibly. This means focusing on the importance of respecting the environment, local wildlife, and other visitors to the park. This program is a partnership between the National Park Service (NPS) and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). It is part of the Healthy Parks Healthy People Initiative, which is focused on the idea that “parks can be gateways to good health – for people and the planet.” The B.A.R.K. acronym stands for: B – Bag your pet’s wasteA – Always leash your petR – Respect wildlife K – Know where you can goThe concept is similar to the traditional Leave No Trace principles but focuses on how a dog may impact the environment and the overall park experience. What Are the Qualifications to Become a B.A.R.K. Ranger? The good news is that the requirements to become a B.A.R.K. Ranger are very broad. The program is open to dogs of all ages, breeds, sizes, and activity levels. From the senior chihuahua who prefers to be carried along the trail while still enjoying the fresh air to the high-energy Border Collie who could hike for days without stopping, all are welcome! So, does your dog meet the qualifications? As long as they are dog – YES!What is the Process of Getting Your Dog’s B.A.R.K. Ranger Certification? This is where the conversation becomes a little more complicated. While the B.A.R.K. Ranger program is a National Park Service program, the exact requirements to be named a B.A.R.K. Ranger vary from park to park. This allows each park to customize the program to best suit its area and the needs of those who visit each park specifically. At some parks, you will be asked to take a booklet and fill it out. Once you have completed the booklet, you will receive your commemorative leash tag. At other parks, a program is offered that you will attend to learn more about the B.A.R.K. principles and how they can be applied in your travels. Finally, some parks make it incredibly easy. They ask those interested to learn about the B.A.R.K. principles at home before coming to the park. Upon arrival, the dog's parents are asked if they understand and agree with them. They then take a pledge to follow these principles before their dog is given the coveted title.

Staff Sergeant Reunites With His Former K-9 Colleague

A retired military dog named Blek, got reunited with his former colleague Staff Sergeant Thomas Watkins, who used to be his handler at a duty station. Blek, who was named after the old English term for “black” or “inky” had quite a reputation among the handlers. Trainers who worked with the canine described him as challenging and tough to manage. But everything changed when Blek met Watkins. In an interview, Watkins told Good Morning America about his experience meeting Blek for the first time.“That was the issue that they were having,” said Watkins. “And so my kettle master pulled me in his office and was like, ‘Hey, man, I know you’re a new handler. But I feel like you’re up to this challenge.’”As the master predicted, Watkins and Blek bonded immediately.“We just connected right off the bat,” Watkins told the Good Morning America. “We truly understood each other… Another handler was out there with me, and he was like man like, ‘I just never seen this dog be so affectionate towards someone.’”Since the day they met, their relationship has grown stronger, making them suitable to carry out missions as a team at the station. “It’s such a beautiful experience, especially when you get a dog that has issues…And then you connect with that dog, and you get that dog to where they need to be. It’s such an awesome and rewarding experience,” explained Watkins. “The rest of the two and a half years that I worked [with] him from deployment to secret service missions all over the world, we had no issues whatsoever,” he added. Unfortunately, the time Blek spent with his handle ended when Watkins got transferred to another station. Blek was left behind to work with other handlers who found the task challenging. According to Carlton Isaacson, a former military dog trainer, things weren’t looking good for Blek.That’s when Project K-9 Hero got interested in Blek’s case. According to their site, this non-profit organization wants to honor military working dogs and police K-9s in retirement. The organization’s purpose is to provide assistance with medical costs, adoption, rehabilitation, food, and end of duty services to provide the best quality of life and to give these four-legged heroes the retirement they deserve. Speaking highly of the non-profit, Isaacson said the project “was a game changer” adding, “They were able to provide him everything that he needed to be safe.”Thanks to Project K-9 Hero, Watkins was able to adopt his old four-legged friend.“I’m so thankful for those guys out there that they were able to take him and hold him until I got to a place where I can truly take care of him and allow him to just be a dog on his retirement,” said Watkins.In addition to allowing him to adopt Blek, Project K-9 Hero had another surprise for Watkins - the organization will cover all of Blek’s food and veterinary care costs for the entirety of the dog’s life. Talking about his feelings about this special reunion, Watkins said: “I am overwhelmed with happiness. That dog is dear to my heart and he made me the handler and trainer that I am today…It looks like [Blek] hasn’t skipped a beat. He’s happy. He looks healthy and I am just glad to be here right now.”“I’m so thankful for that dog, and that’s why I’m excited to actually bring him home with me to live out his life.”It’s heartwarming to see these two heroes reunited and ready to face new adventures together, as a team. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Lost Dog Rescued After Surviving Six Years Alone in the Woods

A senior dog found living in the woods in the U.K. has been rescued and is now looking for a loving home.The dog, named Rose, was first spotted near Crawley Down in West Sussex, England. The Lost Dog Recovery UK South shared in a social media post that they’ve received a message from a concerned member of the public about a small black dog running in the road.The person who saw the dog “stopped the traffic” and let the pooch disappear into the woods, knowing it’s best not to follow. After visiting the nearest property, the person learned that locals were familiar with the dog and that drivers often stopped by saying that the pooch had been on the road. The locals explained that the dog was a stray fed by people.The individual who spotted the dog was troubled by the idea of a dog living in the woods and contacted the Lost Dog Recovery rescue organization with this information. Knowing that this could be a case of an “owned dog allowed to roam” the organization decided to investigate by setting out food for the pooch along with cameras to track its movements. The dog was caught on camera five times in two days and by the third day appeared to be waiting for meals.The organization also talked with residents in the area about the dog and were told that the dog was a stray who lived locally for about ten years. The residents also said that the dog should be left alone because was in good condition, fed, and cared for. After talking about this situation with another household, which has been leaving food for wildlife and were allegedly responsible for the dog’s care, the rescue decided to help the dog. Over the following week, the organization established a feeding schedule and confirmed that the pooch was indeed a senior dog. They set a trap for the dog by serving a warm roast chicken and managed to catch her.“Understandably she was shocked and scared, but very gentle, and was taken immediately to the warmth and safety of kennels,” the organization shared.  After taking her to the kennels, the organization made a shocking discovery - the dog was microchipped! Her name was Rose and she had gone missing from her owners less than 24 hours after they adopted her in 2017! A now 12-year-old Patterdale terrier, Rose, has gone missing from Ashurst Woods, located only six miles away from Crawley Down, where the organization found her. Unfortunately, there was no happy reunion for Rose. The organization managed to contact Rose’s registered owners, but they explained that they were in no position to take her back since their circumstances had changed dramatically and they had moved away. “After the initial shock, our absolute joy at finding a long-lost dog is tinged with sadness as there is no happy reunion for Rose; she never got the chance to know the love of her family,” the organization said in a post. They added that Rose is going to need time, patience, and rehabilitation, and being a senior dog she’ll likely need ongoing vet care and medication. Rose is going to be cared for by Last Chance Animal Rescue in Edenbridge, U.K. After sharing Rose’s story, the rescue received several inquiries about her from families willing to adopt her and give her a safe, warm, and loving home.“Please don’t leave a dog straying for longer than they have to be...not only for them and their wellbeing but also for the sake of humans who love them,” the organization added. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Squeaky Toys Safe for Dogs?

When it comes to dog toys that engage and entertain – squeaky toys are a tried and true classic that fits the bill perfectly. While most dogs love the high-pitched tones these chewable and squeezable toys produce, some owners are not as thrilled and are wondering if there are any potential dangers when it comes to squeaky toys. Could the squeaker come off and pose a choking hazard, or can mold build up inside the hollow center, etc? These are all valid questions, so let’s see what the answers are. Are Squeaky Toys Safe for Dogs? Safety Concerns To Have In MindSafety should always be paramount when it comes to choosing toys for your furry friend, especially when it comes to squeaky toys. Not every squeaky toy is created equal, and some may pose risks to your canine companion. Before selecting a squeaky toy, it's crucial to consider several safety factors.Firstly, pay close attention to the material of the toy. Opt for squeaky toys made from durable, non-toxic materials. Avoid toys with small parts that could be easily chewed off and swallowed, as this could lead to potential choking hazards. Ideally, the squeaker should be highly inaccessible, such as is the case in these  Multipet Loofa Dog Toys with a hidden internal squeaker. The long tubular body of the toy concealed the squeaker and is also super fun for pooches to carry and toss around.

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Rover Releases the Most Popular Pet Names of 2023

Whether you’re stumped for a name for your new dog or cat, or you’re just curious to know what people are naming their pets these days, Rover has some answers for you. The company released a list of the most popular pet names of 2023, and the 11th annual Top Pet Names Report also sheds light on the inspiration behind the names.Here are some of the interesting findings that Rover shared.

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Urine Tests Could Now Provide Early Detection of Cancer in Dogs

Cancer doesn’t discriminate – it affects all creatures around the world, including our cherished pets. Learning that your  dog has cancer can be such a devastating thing, but sadly, it is so common nowadays. John Robertson, research professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics at Virginia Tech says in his interview for  WTOP News  that “one in four dogs will be diagnosed with cancer,” and that “by the time they’re middle-aged, 50% of dogs will die of cancer after the age of 10 years.”Professor Robertson is part of a vast research team that has developed an innovative new noninvasive rapid test that utilizes a dog’s urine and allows potential early detection of cancer. “Usually, when a dog gets diagnosed with cancer, it’s usually quite advanced, with visible signs — we’re trying to detect cancer before these physical symptoms appear,” said fellow researcher Ryan Senger, associate professor in the Department of Biological Systems Engineering. “Cancer is going to change overall metabolism inside the body, and it’s going to change the way the kidneys function, which can be observed in the urine screening process,” Senger added.Through samples of dog urine, the research team discovered that cancerous subjects amongst the observed molecules had a unique “fingerprint” that could be used to indicate the presence of cancer. “We would like to be able to have dogs screened earlier, before cancer develops, throughout their lifetime, perhaps a once-a-year urine specimen,” said Robertson. “That tells us what the molecular fingerprint of the urine is, so if it changes and falls into that realm of fingerprints that define cancer, we’d be able to pay more attention to figure out what’s going on with the dog.”Robertson also added that there are 12 breeds of purebred dogs that have a much higher incidence of cancer. “We’re going to focus on being able to institute early, regular screening that’s going to help pick up earlier when they’re developing cancer, in the hopes that we can get better outcomes.”However, veterinary care is typically subsidized by the owner, Robertson emphasized, which is opposite to medical care, which is often paid for by insurance. “So, we intend to make our tests readily available at a price point that everyone can afford to regularly have their dog examined and screened.”, the professor added. Robertson said that urine screening is currently being researched, to determine whether it could be applied to humans as well, potentially bringing great changes to the discovery of cancer cells. The team’s findings were published in  Frontiers in Veterinary Science and make us very optimistic for the future of preventive veterinary medicine – an inexpensive, accurate way to screen for a potentially fatal illness could be life-changing for so many pets and their owners. Not to mention the implications if such a test could be adapted to be used on humans, as well! 

Latest Studies Find That Aging in Dogs Can Mirror Aging in Humans

In the United States alone, pet owners spend around $1,500 a year on  veterinary care. To be precise, people tend to spend more on dogs than on any other pets – up to 41% of Americans spend $2,000 per year caring about their cherished canine friends. Of course, this is all in the hopes that their pet reaches their senior age with minimal issues and that they get to spend as many years enjoying their company. While providing veterinary care is an important factor that contributes to a pet’s longevity, it’s not always easy to determine when a certain procedure or treatment will help prolong your pet’s life and not their suffering. By comparing the concept they labeled “frailty” in humans and in dogs, a team of researchers hopes that they can help owners make better decisions about their pet’s care.Scientists behind the “ Dog Aging Project” are studying how they could improve your dog’s quality of life for many years to come. The team from the University of Washington is conducting extensive research, based on dogs of all ages, in their attempts to determine how their quality of life is impacted as they age. Dr. Anya Gambino, one of the chief veterinarians working on the project, says: “There's a quantity of life. It's amazing to have a long life, but you always want to have quality of life." The team’s UW Biologist and the Co-Director of the Project, Daniel Promislow, quickly drew a parallel with humans. "Dogs get the same kinds of diseases that humans get. They also show the same kinds of frailty that we see in humans," he said.The so-called “frailty” of dogs, which is the object of the study, is already studied in humans. Dr. Promislow firmly believes that through this study, researchers can gain a much better understanding of life expectancies in dogs and potential disease risks as well. "We hope we'll be able to figure out the relationship between frailty and the disease," Promislow says. But what exactly is this “frailty”? Researchers describe it as "a complex syndrome associated with aging. Because it considers physical, mental and emotional changes associated with aging, it is a better indicator of the body’s condition and overall health than age alone.""If we can do that, we can help vets treat dogs earlier before those diseases are apparent and can also help dogs enjoy their later years to the best degree possible," said Promislow.The study is on a very grand scale and already enrolls over 46,000 dogs across the United States. What is best, researchers believe that humans can also benefit from this extensive study. "The other thing about aging in dogs is that aging in dogs looks a lot like aging in people," said Promislow. "What we learn about aging in dogs is going to help us learn about aging in people, as well."Hopefully, this would mean that many more dogs would get a chance to enjoy their golden years, right by their owner's side. "They provide us with so much unconditional love, joy, and humor," said Dr. Gambino. "We can do something for them that gives them the best chance for living a very happy life with us."

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