Can My Cat Get an Ear Infection?

by Britt

Published: August 2nd, 2023

Photo credit: Silarock / Shutterstock.com

I’ve you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Can my cat get an ear infection?” – You’re not alone! As loving cat parents, we strive to provide our feline friends with the best possible quality of life, including staying informed about their health.

Yes, ear infections in cats can indeed occur, and they can cause our cats a lot of discomfort and distress. If left untreated, they can even lead to permanent hearing problems.

In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of feline ear infections, shedding light on the possible causes, common symptoms to watch out for, and how to best protect your cat’s delicate ears. You’ll walk away feeling empowered to ensure your cat can enjoy a cozy, comfortable, and infection-free life.

What is the Most Common Ear Infection in Cats?

The good news is that ear infections are far less common in cats than dogs. But this doesn’t mean they don’t occur or shouldn’t be taken seriously. The types of ear infections a cat may suffer from can be sorted into three categories based on the location in the ear where they occur. This includes outer ear infections, middle ear infections, and inner ear infections.

The most common type of outer ear infection is ear mites. These tiny parasites live on the skin's surface and inside the ear canal. These microscopic pests are uncomfortable and irritating, often causing cats to scratch at their ears until the outer ear is inflamed. They also leave behind debris that can build up within the ear, adding to the irritation.

Inner ear infections are often the result of a bacterial infection. There are several different causes that can lead to the introduction of bacteria to your dog’s ears, including a less serious outer ear infection left untreated. These infections are far less common but are the most damaging if left unaddressed, as they can permanently alter your cat’s hearing.

What Causes Ear Infections in Cats?

While ear mites are one of the most common causes of an ear infection or irritation in a cat, they aren’t the only cause. There are many reasons why your cat’s ears may be bothering them. For some cats, this could result from thick fur in and around the ear. While this fur grows in that area to protect the ear from debris, it can also trap excess wax.

Regular ear cleaning is the best way to prevent wax buildup, but it can lead to problems when done improperly.

An ear infection may also result from a more significant medical problem. Some ear-specific concerns that an infection could indicate include the presence of polyps or tumors in the ear canal, excess bacteria or yeast in the ear, or a ruptured eardrum.

Looking at the bigger picture, an ear infection could also result from environmental allergies, food allergies, immune system diseases (FLV or FIV), or diabetes. As these conditions are often experienced over an extended period, they can result in prolonged or chronic ear infections. You will need to address the underlying cause to stop the infections from returning.

How Do You Tell if a Cat Has an Ear Infection?

Treatment is essential to prevent your cat’s ear infection from having long-term consequences. Of course, that means you need to know what warning signs to watch out for. How do you tell if your cat has an ear problem?

Here are some of the more common signs to be aware of:

Pawing and itching at the ears
Shaking their head
Black or yellowish ear discharge
Ear discharge that looks like coffee grounds
Excess ear wax
Red, swollen ears
Foul odor from the ear
Head tilting
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of balance
Disorientation
Hearing loss

Of course, many of these signs could point to other ailments, making it difficult to identify an ear infection in the early stages. If you’re unsure, contact your veterinarian to discuss your concerns. They will be able to talk you through what to look out for and the next best steps to take care of your kitty promptly.

Is a Cat Ear Infection an Emergency?

While your cat’s ear infection may not be a life-or-death emergency, it’s not a condition that should be ignored or left untreated. Any issue that impacts your cat’s ears is uncomfortable and painful as this is a sensitive area. Over time, these conditions can cause long-term damage to your cat’s ear leading to permanent hearing loss.

So, while an ear infection doesn’t necessarily warrant rushing to the nearest emergency clinic, it is something that should be addressed in a timely matter.

How Do You Treat an Ear Infection in a Cat?

Treatment of your cat’s ear infection starts with a visit to the veterinarian. They will be able to examine their ear and test a sample of any debris to determine the cause of the problem. This diagnosis will dictate the treatment that is required.

If your cat is suffering from wax build-up, your vet can help to clean out any excess debris carefully and provide medication to relieve any pain your cat may be experiencing. If you have been cleaning your cat’s ears, but they still suffer from build-up, your veterinarian can walk you through the ear cleaning process and any aspect you may be missing. This may also indicate that your cat produces more wax than usual and will require a change in your cleaning routine.

For ear infections caused by bacteria, yeast, or ear mites, your vet will provide you with a prescription to address the problem. This could include anti-parasitics, corticosteroids, antibiotics, or antifungals. You may be given medication that your cat has to take orally or eardrops to administer directly to the area of concern. In cases of severe infection, your vet may administer an injectable antibiotic to provide them with faster relief.

When a cause isn’t quickly evident or an underlying cause is identified, your vet will discuss the treatment or management options available.

Can a Cat’s Ear Infection Go Away On its Own?

No, your cat’s ear infection likely will not go away on its own. Instead, left untreated, it will be allowed to progress and become a more serious condition. If you suspect your cat is suffering from an ear infection, contact your veterinarian. The earlier you address the problem, the easier (and more cost-effective) it will be to clear it up.

Photo credit: frantic00 / Shutterstock.com

5 Tips to Prevent Ear Infections in Cats

Keep Your Cat Safely Indoors

Allowing your cat to roam outdoors can introduce them to many risks, including potential injuries from vehicles or local predators, bite or scratch wounds from cat fights, or exposure to poisons that may be present in the area. But a risk that is often overlooked is the fact that your cat will also have an increased risk of parasites, including ear mites.

By keeping your cat indoors and only allowing them out when they are safely on a leash, you significantly reduce the risk of them spending time in close quarters with cats suffering from ear mites and other transmissible conditions.

Conduct a Regular Ear Check

As cat parents, we often enjoy time curled up with our cats. But did you know you can use this time to prioritize your cat’s health and well-being? While you are snuggled up together, take a moment to check out their ears. Look for signs of irritation like swelling or redness. Peek inside to see if you spot any buildup of wax or debris that could indicate a problem. Feel their ear if they allow you, and check if it feels overly warm. Finally, give a quick smell check to see if there is any sign of unpleasant odors.

If your cat is uncomfortable having their ears checked, this is also a great time to work on that (as well as handling paws, the abdomen, and other areas). The more you practice handling your cat at home, the less stressful it will be when addressing injuries or during vet exams.

Stay on Top of Your Cat’s Annual Exams

Experts recommend you take your cat to the vet at least once a year for a checkup. This is essential as it allows your vet to check for any signs of illness, address any concerns early, and keep your cat healthy. This is also your opportunity to bring up any concerns you may have that your vet may not be able to see with a quick exam, like changes in behavior at home.

Why is this important in terms of ear infections? Your veterinarian will check your cat’s ears as part of a standard exam. This may mean realizing a problem is starting to develop long before it starts to cause your kitty unnecessary pain and discomfort.

Avoid Sticking Cleaning Devices or Tools in Your Cat’s Ear

One mistake many well-meaning cat parents make when cleaning their cat’s ears is using cleaning devices like Q-Tips and ear cleaning kits on their cat. Not only does this risk causing trauma to the ear canal or the ear drum, but you may also be pushing excess wax and debris further into the canal. This means you could be contributing to making a minor outer ear infection worse. Special tools like these aren’t needed for a standard ear cleaning.

Clean Your Cat’s Ears Regularly

While your veterinarian would be happy to hear that you’re leaving the Q-tips and special tools safely stored in the cupboard, that doesn’t mean you should skip out on routine ear cleaning. Excess wax can add up, causing or contributing to your cat’s ear infection.

You should clean your cat’s ears once every 2-3 months, checking them periodically between cleanings for any signs of trouble. But avoid overcleaning, which can cause irritation and lead to trouble too!

How to Clean Your Cat’s Ears Step-By-Step

Does the idea of cleaning your cat’s ears intimidate you? Are you worried about whether you’re doing it right or if there is a better way to approach the task? We’re here to help! Let’s break down how to clean your cat’s ears quickly and easily.

You Will Need:

A high-quality cat ear cleaning solution (We use Oxyfresh Advanced Pet Ear Cleaner)
Cotton Balls or Gauze
Your cat’s favorite treats
Small blanket to contain your cat if needed

Step One: Get Comfortable

Before you get started, focus on getting you and your cat settled comfortably. Find a comfortable place to sit and get your cat settled in your lap. Talk to them calmly, offering treats, until you can see that they are relaxed.

If your cat is overly anxious, this is the point where you will use the small blanket. Wrap your cat’s body in the blanket, with their head exposed, like swaddling a baby. Not only will the pressure of being swaddled help to calm them and soothe any feelings of stress and anxiety, but it will also keep their claws safely contained where they can’t lash out and cause any damage.

Step Two: Pull Out the Ear Cleaner

This step can be approached in 2 ways. If your cat is comfortable with having their ears cleaned, you can pour a little ear cleaner directly into the ear. If not, pour it onto the cotton ball or gauze and introduce it that way. This can be easier for a cat to accept than the feeling of pouring the liquid into their ear directly.

Step Three: Massage Time

After pouring the ear cleaner directly into your cat’s ear or placing the saturated gauze or cotton ball in their ear, gently massage around the base for at least 30 seconds. This is going to help move the cleaning solution around, loosening debris. You should hear a squishing sound, regardless of your chosen option. If not, add a little more cleaning solution.

Step Four: Allow Your Cat to Shake

If you are using a cotton ball or gauze, remove it from your cat’s ear at this point. Allow your cat to shake their ear. But be warned, this will mean any ear cleaner, debris, and ear wax will be thrown loose. You may need to clean up a little afterward!

Step Five: Rinse and Repeat

Repeat steps two to four in the second ear.

Final Thoughts: Ear Infections in Cats

While ear infections are not overly common in cats compared to our canine companions, it is still a risk that we should be familiar with as loving cat parents. Learn the warning signs and conduct regular ear exams when cuddling your cat to catch an infection in the earliest stages. Don’t wait to see if your cat’s ear problems will clear up on their own – they are painful and uncomfortable. Instead, make an appointment with your veterinarian to get it addressed properly. Your cat will thank you for it!

Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Indiana and Lucifer – and their 2 cats – Pippen and Jinx. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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A Dog is Adopted After 7 Years in Shelter After An Emotional Discovery

One pet shelter in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, has been the home of a darling rescue dog named Ella for 7 long years. But the long wait for a happy ending is finally over – as Ella was recently adopted, and under very special circumstances at that. The staff at  Bloomsburg Animal Resource Center have titled this “an extremely special adoption”, and advised readers that “they might want to grab a tissue real quick for this one”.Ella had been at the shelter for the last seven years, making her the center’s longest resident. But recently, things took a turn for the better, when Ella was spotted by Kaitlyn, a resident who quickly fell in love with the rescue pooch. When coming to the center, Kaitlyn said that her long-time furry friend, Jo, recently passed away, and now she was ready to meet a new dog.And as soon as the two met, the match was made. It was obvious that they were meant for each other. Ella quickly made everyone know that Kaitlyn was her “human”. Usually, it wasn’t so. Ella was a victim of abuse and had a long history of fear and aggression. It would take several visits for her to get relaxed around strangers. But with Kaitlyn, this was not the case. The bond was near-instant. “She immediately walked over to Kaitlyn with no hesitation, allowing her to give Ella scratches and pets right away,” the staff of the adoption center said.At the end of the adoption meeting, when Kaitlyn was about to leave, she suddenly noticed something that made her overwhelmingly emotional. What she spotted was the bandana that Ella was wearing around her neck. Her eyes welling with tears, Kaitlyn said to the staff that it was the exact bandana that belonged to her recently passed away dog, Jo. She said that after the passing, she donated all the bandanas to the center. “This bandana that Ella is wearing, it’s Jo’s. I donated them all here when he passed,” Kaitlyn said, quickly showing a picture of Jo wearing it. The symbolism and the connection were incredible. It was a sign that the two were meant to be together. When they realized what happened, the staff was moved to tears: “Out of the 20 dogs in our shelter right now, this bandana. This specific bandana. Jo’s bandana. It was on Ella.”Later, Kaitlyn said that the bandana is a sign: “I like to think of it as Jo’s stamp of approval.”And so it was, that after 7 long years of waiting, the kind and gentle Ella found her new forever home, and a human friend who would treat her right.“Every morning, Ella used to pop up off her bed and greet you at the door of her kennel right away,” the staff at the Animal Resource Center said. “We’ll miss that tomorrow, it’ll be such a bittersweet moment realizing that as we pause to reflect on a few of our favorites times with Ella — but my goodness the amount of pure happiness we will feel every day knowing Ella finally got what she deserved: ELLA GOT ADOPTED.”

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Cat Learns to Turn on the Sink Faucet, Causing Cat-astrophic Flood

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How To Tell if a Cat Is Cold

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Golden Retriever Nurses African Painted Dog Pups Rejected by Their Mom

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New technology helps us find our pets when they wander into trouble.

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. 

What Is Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) dates back thousands of years, and both humans and animals can benefit from it. When applied to pets, it’s referred to as Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM).Veterinarians trained in TCM are able to go beyond the use of pharmaceuticals to also incorporate natural remedies like herbs and acupuncture. If you’re interested in learning more about what TCM is and how it can benefit pets, continue reading.Traditional Chinese Medicine for PetsBased on Daoist philosophy, Chinese Medicine takes a holistic approach and views an animal’s body as a part of the universe. Energy, referred to as Qi, flows through individuals and through the universe, so TCM practitioners look at more than just physical symptoms. They will consider what imbalances are occurring in the body, and how those imbalances can be fixed to restore the body to a state of harmony.Each pet is viewed as a unique individual who can be affected by various factors beyond the physical body. A veterinarian will ask about their daily life and their home environment. They’ll also consider the pet’s personality and behavior, including the things they enjoy, to figure out what may be causing their ailment and choose the right remedy.In addition, this healing system focuses on five elements of earth, water, fire, wood, and metal, as well as five seasons of autumn, winter, spring, summer, and late summer, to diagnose and treat patients. Each season is linked to an element, and an animal moves through the seasons throughout their life (e.g., spring phase when they’re young and winter phase when they’re old). Also, the organs throughout the body are associated with these seasons and elements, and they affect each other, so all of this is taken into consideration when diagnosing and treating patients.For someone just learning about TCM, it can all be quite complicated. But a practitioner with a lot of knowledge and experience in this area will be able to understand how the body works as a whole and how it is influenced by the external world as well.What Types of Treatments Are Included in TCM?Veterinarians who practice TCM use several types of treatments to address a variety of pet health concerns. Those include:Herbs: A variety of herbs are used in TCVM, and your veterinarian will determine which ones are best for your pet. Your furry friend might need a single herb or a combination of herbs to feel better. Herbs can be potent, and it’s wise to discuss potential side effects with your vet. Also, if your pet is taking other supplements or medications, your vet will determine if adding certain herbs to the mix is safe.Food Therapy: Providing your pet with the right nutrition can be helpful in maintaining and improving their health, and you can receive personalized guidance in this area from a vet who practices TCVM. Certain ingredients, diets, and/or supplements might be recommended based on your companion’s specific needs. Options like Herbsmith Smiling Dog Treats and Herbsmith Sassy Cat Treats can be used to provide warming, cooling, or neutral foods to rebalance your pet’s constitution.

Why Are Labradors Fat? Scientists Have the Answer

The friendly, playful, and trainable Labrador is one of the most popular dog breeds around the world. But, few canines are as obsessed with food as Labrador retrievers - and now scientists think they have discovered why. According to new research, a quarter of labs are predisposed to obesity due to a genetic mutation.Approximately 25 percent of Labradors face a double-whammy of burning fewer calories and feeling hungry all the time because of an anomaly. Scientists explain that this obesity-causing combination means dog owners must be strict when feeding and exercising their labs to keep them fit.The mutation is found in the gene called POMC, which plays an important role in energy use and hunger, and affects how dogs behave around food. Around 25 percent of Labradors and 66 percent of flat-coated retrievers are affected by POMC mutation, which puts these dogs at risk of obesity and causes increased interest in food.Researchers found that although these dogs don’t need to eat more to feel full, they are hungrier in between meals. The study also showed that dogs with the POMC mutation use around 25 percent less energy when resting than dogs without it. As a result, these pooches don’t need to eat as many calories to maintain a healthy weight. “We found that a mutation in the POMC gene seems to make dogs hungrier. Affected dogs tend to overeat because they get hungry between meals more quickly than dogs without the mutation,” said Dr. Eleanor Raffan, a researcher in the University of Cambridge’s Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience who led the study. “All owners of Labradors and flat-coated retrievers need to watch what they’re feeding these highly food-motivated dogs to keep them a healthy weight. But dogs with this genetic mutation face a double whammy: they not only want to eat more, but also need fewer calories because they’re not burning them off as fast,” she added.The study found that the POMC mutation alters a pathway in dogs’ brains associated with body weight regulation. The mutated genes trigger the starvation signal that sends a message to the body to increase food intake and conserve energy.The study involved 87 adult pet Labradors, all at a healthy weight or moderately obese. The dogs were subjected to several tests, including ‘the sausage in the box’ test. The dogs were first given a can of wet dog food every 20 minutes until they couldn’t eat any more. All labs eat huge amounts of food, but what’s interesting is that dogs with POMC didn’t eat more food than the dogs without it.On a different day, all dogs were given the same breakfast. Three hours later they were offered a sausage in a box made of clear plastic and a perforated lid, so the dogs could see and smell the sausage but not eat it.Scientists discovered that labs with POMC mutation tried harder to get the sausage than the dogs without it, showing greater hunger. In another test, the dogs were allowed to sleep in a special chamber that measured the gases they breathed out. This test showed that labs with POMC mutation burn 25 percent fewer calories than dogs without it. According to researchers, people are often rude to owners of fat dogs, criticizing them for not feeding and exercising their dogs properly. However, this study has shown that labs with POMC are trying to increase their energy intake by looking for food all the time. Keeping these dogs slim is challenging, but possible. Spreading out daily food rations, by using puzzle feeders to slow down feeding or scattering the food around the yard so it takes longer to eat are ways owners can keep their Labradors distracted from constant hunger. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Dog Bars the New Dog Park?

Socializing with other pet parents over a cold one, just got easier!

What to Do If Your Dog Ingested Something They Shouldn't?

It’s no secret dogs are nosy – especially when they suspect food is involved. They’ll have no problem jumping on the counter, digging through trash, or “sneakily” stealing stuff off your coffee table if given a chance. Not only that this type of behavior can be really irritating for the owner, but it is also downright dangerous. Dogs can easily swallow something that could cause serious health issues – a tiny object that can cause choking, a hazardous chemical, or some human food that is poisonous to them. In either of these cases, the owner should be prepared and alert as acting quickly is crucial when your pet eats something that they shouldn’t have. But what exactly do you need to do if this happens? What is the course of action to help a dog who ingested something they simply should not? Let’s go over it.What to Do If Your Dog Ingested Something They Shouldn't: Step By Step ExplainedIf your dog has ingested something they shouldn't have, it's important to act quickly. Every second counts in this case so don’t panic even if that’s your first instinct. Going into panic mode never helps and can only make things worse. Instead, try to assess the situation and figure out what has been ingested so you can act accordingly. Here are some general guidelines to follow, but keep in mind that you should always consult with your veterinarian for advice tailored to your specific situation.It is imperative to stay calm. It's understandable to feel scared and panicked, but it's crucial to stay composed. Panicking can make it difficult to think clearly and take appropriate action. Take a deep breath, strengthen your resolve and act.Always try to identify the substance or item ingested, if it’s possible to do so very quickly. This information can be helpful for your veterinarian to provide accurate advice. Do you notice any small objects missing? Any open containers or something similar? Quickly try to find the clues.It goes without saying that it is always crucial to call your veterinarian immediately. Provide them with details about what your dog ingested, the amount, and any symptoms your dog is experiencing. After all, they are professionals who know how to deal with these situations in an efficient manner and will give you the guidelines suited to your situation.Keep in mind not to induce vomiting. Inducing vomiting can be dangerous in some situations and should only be done under the guidance of a veterinarian. Certain substances or items can cause more harm if brought back up. Unless instructed otherwise, don’t do it.Disperse with the panic and fears, and follow the advice of your veterinarian to the letter. Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions based on the substance ingested. Follow their advice carefully, whether it involves inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, or other measures.It is important to monitor your dog and their behavior. Keep a close eye on them for any changes in behavior, signs of distress, or dangerous symptoms. Be prepared to provide this information to your veterinarian. Sometimes, nothing will show at first, but could later on. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend immediate action, such as going to an emergency veterinary clinic. Follow their advice promptly, or if you see that your dog is in danger, do so as fast as possible.

TikTok "Cheese Tax" Video Seriously Resonates with Pet Owners

Viral TikTok video spills the beans on sharing with our pooches!

After 11 Long Years, a Cat That Was Presumed Dead Returns Home

Sometimes, miracles can truly happen when you least expect it! And if a pet story can be considered a real life miracle, it’s the one about Toby, a family cat that - it would seem - lived a life of great adventure. In 2012, Toby, the now 14-year-old cat of the Allan family from Warwickshire, suddenly disappeared after the family moved to a new house. It was a heartbreaking event for the entire family, but their pet was nowhere to be found. After many attempts to locate their cat, they simply had to come to terms with the fact that old Toby was lost, and presumably dead. But this week, after 11 long years, Toby was returned to the Allan family by a local woman. The lady checked the cat’s microchip and was quick to get in touch with Coventry Cats Protection."I never thought in a million years I’d see him again," said owner Justine Allan. "Toby was collected and will no longer have to scavenge for food and sleep in a cold bin store," added the Coventry charity co-ordinator Wendy Harris.Toby suddenly went missing in a chilly December in 2012, after the Allan family moved from Galley Common in Nuneaton, to their new residence at Long Shoot."[My son Charlie] was about 12 when Toby went missing, and he was heartbroken when we realized he probably wasn’t coming back," said Mrs Allan for  Yahoo "The Long Shoot is a notoriously busy road, we just assumed the worst had happened and thought he had been run over.”But almost a decade later, just 5 miles away a local Bedworth lady got in touch with Cats Protection, believing that a stray cat she was feeding was pregnant. A volunteer with the charity went out to investigate, a microchip scanner in tow. "It turned out, not only did it have a chip, but that he was a neutered male named Toby, rather than female as originally believed," said Ms. Harris.Blazingly fast, the charity managed to trace the details of the Allan family on their database, and got in touch to share the splendid news – their missing feline friend was re-discovered!Initially in complete shock, after 11 years, the Allan family rejoiced and celebrated and quickly went out to pick up their long-lost pet. During those 11 years, the family welcomed another pet into their home, a King Charles Cavalier named Bernie. But even so, Toby fits right back into the family dynamic. As if he wasn’t missing for more than a decade!

New Bill Will Eliminate Housing Barriers for Pet Owners In California

California tenants with pets rejoice - a new bill that stops landlords from denying housing to pet owners is in the works!The chair of the California Legislative Renters Caucus, Matt Haney, has introduced legislation that would compel landlords to accept tenants with pets. The bill, AB 2216, will insist that landlords have reasonable reason(s) for not allowing a pet in the rental unit. The biggest change, however, is that the bill prevents property owners from asking about pet ownership before the tenant’s application has been approved.The new bill, which is sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States, aims to solve a big problem in the rental world - a surplus of tenants with pets and a lack of landlords willing to rent to them.California has one of the highest number of tenants in the country, and close to 70% of them are pet owners. Alas, under current law, only around 30% of all rentals are pet-friendly. The lack of pet-friendly housing is causing almost a million tenants to keep pets in their rentals hidden from their landlords. This solves nothing. On one hand, landlords are left without adequate coverage for potential damages. On the other hand, pet owners are left living in constant fear of being kicked out of their homes. Andrea Amavisca, a senior legislative advocate at the California Immigration Policy Center, told the LA Times that she and her partner spent over a month looking for a two-bedroom rental in Sacramento that would allow for a small cattle dog mix.“Landlords that initially liked our application would suddenly stop answering our calls once they found out we had a dog. Or others would require a pet deposit close to $1,000 that would put the unit totally out of our budget.”Amavisca added it felt unfair that almost every landlord had a different pet policy with varying fees they could change as they pleased. Some landlords charged only $20 a month while others asked for four-figure cleaning deposits. The new bill doesn’t address fees and doesn’t prevent landlords from excluding certain types of pets. Haney’s legislation defines a common household pet as a domesticated animal, such as a cat or dog, that is kept in the home for pleasure rather than commercial uses. While pet owners are relieved to hear about the legislation, property owners are already expressing their concerns. The biggest issue is that landlords will be forced to take on pets, and the increased risk of potential property damage that comes with pets, without a pet deposit as a safeguard. Haney explained that exceptions would be made for landlords with reasonable excuses for not allowing pets on their property. “What we see too often is just these blanket prohibitions of pets with no good reason for it, with no required justification for it and no protection of pet owners, who represent the majority of California’s renters, to be able to access housing just like anyone else,” said Haney.According to Jenny Berg, California director for the Humane Society of the United States, extra fees and bans add to the overcrowding crisis in animal shelters nationwide. “One of the reasons why people relinquish their pets is because they can’t find affordable housing or housing at all that can accommodate their pets,” she said. Haney’s bill could make a massive change, as it would remove the barriers tenants face when looking for housing for them and their four-legged companions.“We want a renter to be considered first and decision made about whether they meet the requirements for the apartment,” said Haney. “And then, after that fact, they disclose that they have a pet. And only if there’s a reasonable rationale to deny them, that would be allowed.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Do You Need to Clean A Cat's Teeth?

Cats are known and adored for their free spirit, their stubborn nature, their agility, and their cute and cuddly side as well. They are skilled hunters, and as such they have sharp and perfected teeth. But while a cat roaming the outdoors would gnaw and eat prey she previously caught when you have a pet cat, those same teeth are used to eat a very different kind of food. Naturally, this can have a big impact on your cat’s dental health, as the same principles that were true in nature are not applicable for indoor-only cats anymore – which brings up an important question: do you need to clean a cat’s teeth? How important is this for their hygiene? And most importantly, how do you do it? Let’s take a closer look at this question.Do You Need to Clean A Cat's Teeth?Just like for us humans, dental care is important for kitties too. Of course, human and feline teeth are totally different, so dental hygiene is not exactly the same for both. Cat teeth are not brushed as often as our own, but nevertheless, you should provide some level of dental hygiene to your four-legged friend, as it can be a great benefit for their health. Neglect their little chompers for a long time, and their teeth could deteriorate over the years. This can lead to great discomfort, pain, loss of appetite, and from there – many other problems as well. So, in short, keeping your cat’s teeth clean and maintained is an essential aspect of caring for them. Of course, regular vet checkups will give you a good insight into their dental health and will allow you to spot problems early on and tackle them more easily. But it also goes a long way to know the tips and tricks that help maintain a cat’s dental hygiene. Here are just a few:Regular Brushing