Search Results
1093 results for “tick”
Treatment for Corneal Ulcers in Cats
A vet diagnoses a cat's corneal ulcer with a full eye exam and fluorescein staining, though finding the cause can be tricky. Possible triggers include abnormal lashes, eyelid faults, dry eye, feline herpesvirus, and uveitis as a complication. A thorough exam, stain test, tear test, and cultures pin down size, depth, and infection so the right treatment can start.
What Is Storage Disease in Dogs?
Storage disease is a hereditary metabolic disorder where certain substances build up abnormally in the body's tissues. The two most reported forms in veterinary medicine are lysosomal storage disease and glycogen storage disease. It strikes dogs and cats, is very rare, and appears early in puppies and kittens because it is inherited. Nerve-related signs include poor growth, ataxia, seizures, exercise intolerance, behavior changes, and vision loss. Diagnosis uses blood, urine, imaging, biopsy, and enzyme tests; care is supportive, and affected dogs should never be bred.
Reading a Cat’s Mood from Its Posture
A cat broadcasts its feelings through posture. A relaxed cat stands straight with a low tail and forward ears; a threatening one lifts its head and rump to look bigger; a terrified cat curls small with folded ears and a tucked tail; a cat bluffing bravado puffs up its fur while still afraid. Learn the poses to understand your cat.
Common Oral Diseases in Dogs
Many owners struggle with their dog's bad breath and the distress of dental pain. This article shares the common oral diseases behind that odor and how to prevent and treat them. From tartar and gingivitis to periodontal disease, cavities, broken teeth, and malocclusion, understanding the causes is the first step to a healthier mouth.
Key Things to Know About Dog Deworming
Parasites split into external (fleas, lice, ticks, mites) and internal (coccidia, tapeworm, roundworm, hookworm, giardia). Suspect worms if: scratching and scooting rise; black specks on the coat; a non-pregnant dog with a swollen belly but thin frame and bigger appetite (heavy load); cough, fast breathing, low energy, or sleepiness without other illness; or worms in the stool (bring a sample to the vet). Start around 1 month old (mothers pass parasites on). Frequency: puppies internal every 3 months, external monthly; adults every 6 months. Dose by weight/age per label or vet; give 3 hours after meals (mild gut irritation). Vaccines aren't dewormers—wait 7 days post-vaccine. No single drug kills all types, so target the parasite with your vet; keep the environment clean.
What You Must Never Feed a Dog
Two clear poisons: grapes cause acute kidney failure, and chocolate's theobromine hits the central nervous system and heart, spiking the pulse to over double and risking coma or death. Also avoid sticky glutinous-rice foods—they cling to teeth and, because dogs bolt their food, can lodge in the throat and softly block the airway, causing choking. To stay safe, just feed formulated dog food, whose recipe is scientifically built for dogs.
Labrador Retriever Breed Standard
The Labrador is a strongly built, medium, short-coupled gundog with great endurance and a kind, friendly, intelligent temperament—equally a stable hunter and a family companion. Hallmarks: a short dense weather-resistant coat, an 'otter' tail, a clean head with a broad skull and moderate stop, and a powerful jaw. Males stand 22.5–24.5 in and weigh 65–80 lb; females 21.5–23.5 in, 55–70 lb (not for under-12-month dogs). The nose should be wide and well-pigmented (pink/none is a disqualification); eyes kindly brown; a balanced body with muscle, not fat, defines the working type.
Are Dog Treats a Blessing or a Poison?
Treats come in many types. Meat jerky (chicken/duck/beef, dry or moist) suits most dogs—buy branded, dated, labeled ones. Functional treats include dental biscuits and chews (rawhide, pork/beef skin, plant protein) that clean teeth and pass time; size to the dog to avoid swallowing. Dairy treats need lactose-free choices for lactose-intolerant dogs. Natural chews (bones, rabbit ears) are popular but unpreserved, so buy small. Pick known brands with clear labels, check dates, and remember: staple food sustains alone; treats alone do not—and too many treats breed pickiness.
What to Do When Your Cat Has a Sensitive Stomach
Vomiting has clear causes: regurgitated kibble means eating too fast or too much (slow it with set meals; soften for kittens); hairballs need daily brushing and cat grass; bile from an empty stomach needs small frequent meals; blood means inflammation or a sharp object—go to the vet. For soft stool, withhold food and water a day and give probiotics. Underlying causes include skipped deworming (internal every 3 months, external monthly) and bad habits: too many salty snacks, abrupt food changes (transition over 7 days), and mixing new food into old.
How to Avoid Getting Scratched by Your Cat
The core idea is status: if the cat knows you rank above it, it accepts your rules. Trim nails to avoid accidental scratches—do it while the cat is calm, in a quiet room, ideally with a second person offering treats. Keep respect through feeding (don't overfill) and immediate, non-hand punishment for bad behavior. Keep physical and emotional distance during play, use a laser pointer, and train obedience so the cat follows your lead instead of attacking.