Search Results
2372 results for “pet health”
Is Your Dog Always Tearful? Watch Out for Ingrown Eyelashes
An ingrown eyelash (distichiasis) curves inward and constantly rubs the cornea and conjunctiva. It's common in flat-faced breeds (Pekingese, Pug, Bulldog), long-haired breeds (Maltese, Shih Tzu), and seniors, causing chronic tearing, tear stains, conjunctivitis, keratitis, and even corneal perforation and vision loss. A few lashes can be plucked; many need electrolysis, cryotherapy, or entropion surgery.
Winter Dog Care: The ‘Five Do’s and Five Don’ts’ to Save
In winter, keep dogs warm by breed/age (short-haired, small, puppy, and senior dogs need coats outdoors; long-haired breeds don't), add nutritious cooked meats, watch electric-heater safety, groom coats, and protect paws from salt. The five don'ts: no all-day clothing (weakens the coat's insulation), no staying indoors (winter blues), no skipping deworming (every 2–3 months), no drinking snow melt (gut irritation), and no frequent baths (monthly is enough).
What to Do About Postpartum Depression in Cats
Postpartum depression in cats is common—signs include low appetite, withdrawal, and anxiety. Help with a quiet rest space, a steady diet and gentle exercise, regular petting and play, close behavior monitoring, engaging toys, and a vet visit if it lingers (medication may be needed). A new companion or environment change can also lift mood.
Can dogs use human shampoo?
No. A dog's skin pH differs from ours; human shampoo damages the skin barrier, causing itch, dandruff, hair loss, and redness. Use pet shampoo, dry the coat thoroughly, and feed eggs, vitamins, and fish oil for coat health.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Eggs? Stop Following the Trend Blindly
Raw eggs are best avoided: shells and yolks can carry Salmonella, Toxoplasma, and roundworms (diarrhea, appetite loss, weight loss; toxoplasma can deform or abort puppies), and raw egg white contains avidin that binds biotin and hurts skin, coat, and nerves. If you must, use sushi-grade eggs and start with a quarter. Also keep chocolate, grapes, onion, alcohol, xylitol, caffeine, salty/sugary food, dairy, and bones off the menu.
Common Guinea Pig Diseases and Their Symptoms
Guinea pigs commonly suffer digestive troubles (diarrhea, constipation, gut parasites), respiratory infections (pneumonia, bronchitis), skin disease from bacteria, fungus, or external parasites, and urinary issues (cystitis, nephritis). Good diet, clean housing, checkups, and prevention keep them healthy.
The Hidden Cost of Ignoring Your Dog’s Tartar
Tartar causes more than bad breath — it harbors bacteria that trigger gingivitis and periodontitis, erode the alveolar bone, and loosen teeth. Bacteria entering the bloodstream via gum wounds can cause sepsis, nephritis, or myocarditis, shortening a dog's life by 2–3 years. Treat with professional cleaning (and extraction if severe), and prevent daily with brushing, dental wipes/gel, and chews.
Why Is Your Dog Scooting (Dragging Its Bottom) on the Floor?
A dog dragging its bottom usually means anal itching or pain — most often impacted or infected anal glands, intestinal parasites (tapeworms), perianal skin infection, or allergies. Signs like frequent licking, straining to defecate, or a red swollen anus point to anal-gland disease (express and apply an antibiotic ointment). White rice-like segments mean tapeworms (use a praziquantel dewormer). Rule out health causes before blaming boredom or anxiety.
Which Dogs Need Calcium Supplements? Don’t Overdo It
Healthy dogs rarely need extra calcium, but growing large-breed puppies on low-calcium diets, pregnant or nursing mothers (risk of eclampsia), and seniors with weak digestion may need some. Get a vet check first, then choose the right form (calcium carbonate, citrate, or lactate) and food sources, plus sunlight and exercise. Too much calcium harms bone development and can cause kidney stones.
When is a cat’s breeding season, or heat period?
Cats come into heat in spring and autumn. Females start around 6 months with 3 to 7 day cycles; males around 6 to 8 months with 7 to 10 day cycles, and can be triggered by a nearby female. Heat brings clinginess, appetite loss, and spraying, so spay if you do not plan to breed.