S. Fontana is a LifeLearn author.
With the unusual weather patterns we have seen this year alot of people are wondering about Heartworm Season. Should we test early? Should we start preventive medication early. One of the best responses we have seen is on the “Worms & Germs Blog” through the University of Guelph. Please read the link below and contact us if you have any questions.
http://www.wormsandgermsblog.com/2012/03/articles/animals/dogs/early-spring-and-heartworm-questions/
by Anne Klepp, RVT
Although a large percentage of owners want to give the best care to their feline family members, many cats, particularly seniors, do not receive annual physical exams. Cats are complex creatures. They stress easily, don’t travel well and have learned through the hierarchy of the animal kingdom that it is not ok to show signs of disease or weakness. So they hide! They hide under the bed, they don’t go willingly into a carrier and they certainly do not easily show us when something hurts or is wrong with them. Let us help you make this transition from home to the veterinary clinic easier on you and them.
Cats should receive a physical exam at least once yearly. At this visit your veterinarian and their staff will discuss with you topics important to preventive care. This would include:
As your cat ages, it is important to consider wellness bloodwork. This blood profile will look for parameters for diseases such as hyperthyroidism, kidney or liver disease, anemia, infection or cancer. Many diseases only show symptoms once the disease process has progressed to the end stages. If detected early, there are many things that can be done with some conditions to help slow down the progression of the disease.
We look forward to seeing you and your cat soon as Brantford Vet Clinic celebrates cats!
You want me to go where?
Brantford Veterinary Clinic supports Dental Health Month
by Jennifer Church, R.V.T.
Did you know February is dental health month?
80% of dogs and 70% of cats over age 3 suffer from periodontal disease.
How do you know if your dog or cat has dental disease? Here are signs you can look for:
« Yellow or brown discolouration of the teeth
« Persistant bad breath
« Bleeding or inflamed gums
« Loose teeth
« Missing or broken teeth
« Trouble chewing or eating food
« Sensitivity around the mouth
« Unusual drooling
« Loss of appetite
« Lethargy
What should you do if you notice your dog or cat has these symptoms/signs?
Call your veterinarian and book a dental consultation.
Once your veterinarian has assessed the severity of your pets’ dental disease, they may make recommendations. Some options would be:
« Dental scale and polish
« Brushing your pets teeth
« Dental diets
« Dental chews and toys
« Additives for their water
Parts of teeth and gums:
Peridontium – structures that support the teeth
Gingiva – soft tissue that surrounds the teeth and cover the bone
Cementum – tissue that attaches the root to the ligament
Factors in dental disease:
Plaque – bacterial film that forms on teeth daily. Can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Calculus – also known as tartar
– mineralized, crusty deposits that irritate the gums when plaque is removed
Gingivitis – inflammation of the gingiva or gums
Periodontal disease – painful oral disease that can lead to tooth loss and organ disease.
Periodontitis – inflammation and disease of the tooth supportive tissue.
Stages of oral health:
Health – minimal plaque and tartar on the tooth surface
Gingivitis – plaque, tartar and mild bad breath
Early periodontal disease – inflammation and swelling of the gums with moderate bad breath
Established periodontal disease – bleeding gums, pustular discharge with severe bad breath
Advanced periodontal disease – loose teeth, bleeding gums, inflammation of the gums and severe bad breath.
Diagnosing the problem is the first step. Call your veterinarian to book a consult today!
The health of our pets is important to all of us. I’m sure that we would never knowingly feed our pets something harmful to them. The article below regarding Chicken Jerky Treats (also sold as chicken tenders, strips or treats) has been shared to veterinarians in Canada and the U.S. we would like to share it with you. Please click on the following link for more information.
http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/NewsEvents/CVMUpdates/ucm280586.htm
