Tag Archive for: cats

The Pros & Cons Of A Raw Food Diet For Your Dog

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The Pros & Cons Of A Raw Food Diet For Your Dog

You might have heard your friends talking about feeding a raw diet, but what exactly is a raw diet? Is it giving your dog a raw steak from the local butcher? Not quite! Raw food for pets is still relatively new on store shelves but this raw food isn’t the same as ours. Raw food for pets is made to be a complete meal that provides everything your pet needs to live a happy, healthy life. But what are the pros and cons of feeding a raw diet?

Pros:

  1. Increased excitement for meal time: Some pet parents think their pets are picky eaters but in reality they’re just bored of what they’ve been getting. A raw diet can increase meal time excitement.
  2. Maintain weight or lose weight: Raw diets are deal for maintaining or loosing weight as they mimic what they would eat in the wild.
  3. Improved health: Raw diets can provide many health benefits such as: improved digestion, better skin and coat health, and increased energy.
  4. Less poop or less frequent: On an all raw diet ideally feces will turn grey and flake away after a few days. That means less pooper scooping. Some owners report their dog is still wanting going out as much but often times bowel movements are smaller.
  5. Better odor and breath: Raw diets can help with pet odor including eliminating that corn chip smell some dogs paws have from a diet too high in carbohydrates. It can also help make breath fresher as raw diets can naturally clean teeth.

Cons:

  1. Cost: Raw diets can be more expensive than kibble (dry food) depending on the size of your dog and what you currently are feeding.
  2. Bacteria in raw meat: While raw diets are tested to be safe, you are handling raw meat which means if handled improperly could lead to pathogens such as salmonella and E. coli infecting humans.
  3. Unbalanced diet: It’s important to do research before feeding your dog an all raw diet to ensure they are getting all the proper nutrients they need. Many owners are tempted to give their dogs only raw meat. This not only could lead to pathogens but it could also lead to a sick pet.
  4. Time consuming: For those owners preparing their dogs food, time can be a huge factor. Is your pet food frozen? You will still have to remember to let the food thaw in the fridge before serving (unless your pet likes it frozen solid).
  5. Less convenient: Raw diets do not travel well. Many hotels do not have a freezer large enough to accommodate the amount of raw you may need to bring. Certain brands of raw may not be available to purchase at your destination either.

Raw diets aren’t for everybody and that’s ok. Some pet parents feed all raw, others only do a meal or two each week, and some don’t do any raw. Perhaps you can make it one of your New Years resolutions to incorporate more raw into your pets diet. If you’re thinking about raw there are many different brands on the market to suit every need. Here are a few of the top raw commercial dog food brands on the market:

Benefits of Raw Feeding InfographicWhat do you feed your pet? Let us know in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting. Curious about cats? This information applies to cats too.

What To Include In A Pet First Aid Kit

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You never want to have to use a first aid kit but it’s important to keep one on hand. Not just for your human children but for your pets as well. You can purchase first aid kits for pets you might already have some of the items on hand or want to add to yours. Here’s what we recommend having in your first aid kit.

What to include in your pets aid kit?

Basics:

  • Gauze Pads
  • Adhesive Tape
  • Cotton Balls or Swabs
  • Disposable Gloves
  • Ice Pack
  • Alcohol Wipes
  • Styptic Powder
  • Saline Eye Solution
  • Antibiotic Ointment
  • Tweezers or tick key
  • Scissors with rounded tip
  • Oral syringe or turkey baster

Additional Pet First Aid Kit Equipment:

  • Towels or blankets
  • Vaseline
  • Leash

Always include contact details of your veterinarian and a list of medications & dosages taken by your pets.

Pet First Aid Checklist

Did we miss something? Let us know in the comments what you have in your pets kit.

What Mushrooms are Toxic to Pets?

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What Mushrooms are Toxic to Pets?

The wet season is here which means, mushrooms! Mushrooms might be great on pizza for us, many curious pets consume mushrooms that are toxic while out on walks. It’s important to be diligent and to avoid any mushrooms you may see. This also includes inspecting your yard, especially after it has rained, for any mushrooms that may have sprouted up. We’ve compiled a list of a few of the more common mushrooms that are toxic to pets you may encounter.

1. Ivory Funnel

Ivory Funnel Mushroom
Archenzo, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

2. Fly Amanita/Fly Agaric

Fly Amanita/Fly Agaric Mushroom
Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

3. Panther Cap

Panther Cap Mushroom
George Chernilevsky, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

4. Gemmed Amanita

Gemmed Amanita Mushroom
Scott Darbey from Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

5. Death Cap

Death Cap Mushroom
George Chernilevsky, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

6. Gyromitra Esculenta (False Morels)

Gyromitra Esculenta (False Morels)
Jason Hollinger, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

7. Smith’s Amanita

Smith's Amanita Mushroom
Colin Smith / Fungi on Pound Common

8. Death Angel

Death Angel Mushroom
This image was created by user Ryane Snow (snowman) at Mushroom Observer, a source for mycological images.You can contact this user here, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

9. Hongo’s False Death Cap

Hongo's False Death Cap Mushroom
The High Fin Sperm Whale, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Want a handy infographic to keep on the fridge? We have one for you below!

Mushrooms Toxic to Pets Infographic

If you fear your pet has eaten a poisonous or unknown mushroom, seek veterinary help immediately. If possible, try to get a sample of the same mushroom from where they were found to help aid in identification. You can learn more about what plants are poisonous to pets on our blog as well as common household products that are toxic to pets.

Did you learn something from our list? Let us know in the comments below.

What Plants are Poisonous to Cats?

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What Plants are Poisonous to Cats?

As pet parents we know that our cats get into a lot of things including things they shouldn’t eat. But what about plants? Most of us know lilies are deadly but are there others? Here’s 12 plants you may have that are poisonous to your cat.

1. Autumn Crocus

Crocus vernus with bee
Generalrelative, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

2. Azaleas

Azalea Flower
Marianafloresocampo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

3. Cyclamen

Cyclamen hederifolium. Locatie, Tuinreservaat Jonker vallei 03
Dominicus Johannes Bergsma, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

4. Daffodils

Daffodils, 2021-03-23, Beechview, 03
Cbaile19, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

5. Dieffenbachia

Dieffenbachia cultivar
Tomáš Kebert & umimeto.org, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

6. Hyacinth

HyacinthPink
Elf – [1], CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

7. Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Plant 09
Sabina Bajracharya, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

8. Lilies

Easter Lily.
Halder97Sudipto, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

9. Oleander

Nerium oleander pink
Challiyan at Malayalam Wikipedia, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

10. Rhododendrons

Rhododendron ponticum actm 04
Agnes Monkelbaan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

11. Sago Palm

12. Tulips

Tulipa suaveolens floriade to Canberra
John O’Neill, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Want a handy infographic to put on the fridge? We have one for you below.

Poisonous Plants for Cats Infographic

Do you have any of these plants in your home? If so, make sure to remove them or place them into a room where your cat cannot get to them. If you believe you pet has ingested any of these plants, call the Pet Poison Helpline and seek veterinary help immediately. Want to know more? See our previous post on Houseplants That Are Toxic to Pets.

Amigo Animal Hospital - Veterinarian In Westminster, CA USA :: Pet Poison Helpline

Were any of these plants that are poisonous to cats new to you? Let us know in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting. We’d love to hear your feedback.

Did you know mushrooms can also be toxic to cats? See our blog post here to learn more about what mushrooms are toxic to pets.

 

The Importance Of Keeping Your Pets Hydrated

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The Importance Of Keeping Your Pets Hydrated

We all know the importance of drinking water daily. But did you know it’s just as important for your pets to stay hydrated as you?

  • Water maintains healthy cell function: Just like in humans, water makes up the majority of our pets cells and is essential to keeping healthy cell function.
  • Helps aid in digestion: Water plays a function in helping your pet digest food. Not enough water means they may have digestive issues.
  • Helps aid in nutrient absorption:  Similar to digestion, water helps your pet absorb nutrients from their food.
  • Makes movement easier: Water helps to lubricate your pets joints and helps to cushion them. Without enough water your pet may have trouble moving and may be in pain.

As you can see, water provides essential functions for life. Make sure your pet is getting between .05-1 ounce of water per pound of body weight each day to help maintain healthy functions.

Here’s some of our favorite ways to help keep your pet hydrated!

  • Add more water bowls: Want to change it up? Try out a fountain with your pet or add ice discs to keep the water cool.
  • Freeze wet dog food to create a pupsicle: Stock up on wet food that comes in a pouch this season. Cut a small hole into the pouch, add a bit of water (ideal for pâté food), and insert a popsicle stick. Let freeze until solid.
  • Add water to your pets food: A simple trick to get more water into your pets diet, add a few teaspoons or tablespoons of water to their food.
  • Fresh fruit as a treat: Blueberries, apple slices, seedless watermelon, and cantaloupe are all hydrating and healthy treats for your dog.Pet Hydration Ideas Infographic

Have you tried any of these ways to keep your pet hydrated? Let us know your favorite methods in the comments!

Heartworm In Dogs: The Facts and What To Do About It

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Heartworm In Dogs: The Facts and What To Do About It

What is heartworm?

Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) is a worm that lives in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of pets that have been infected by mosquitos. These worms get their name from where the adults live in the body: the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels of an infected animal. Dogs are most susceptible to infection but cats and ferrets can also become infected.

Can heartworm be treated?

Yes! But treatment costs 10-15x more than preventatives and treatment can take months. It is not always 100% successful. Treatment usually involves Melarsomine dihydrochloride which is an FDA-approved drug used to kill adult heartworms in dogs. The medication is injected deep into the back muscles. This treatment is often only used for Class 1, 2, and 3 cases of heartworm. Class 4 of heartworm is risky and often fatal as the blood is being blocked by a mass of worms. Surgery is the only option for class 4 cases. There is no FDA-approved drug to treat heartworm in cats and ferrets.

Is my pet at risk?

Heartworm is found in all 50 states. Even if your pet is indoors, a stray infected mosquito that finds its way into your house can infect your pet.

Is heartworm in dogs deadly?

Potentially. Heartworm can cause: severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage of other organs especially if left untreated. There are 4 classes of heartworm with class 1, 2, and 3 being treatable with medication. Class 4 requires surgery that may not be successful.

Can I do anything to prevent heartworm in dogs?

Yes! Pets should be on year-round preventatives and get regular testing for early detection. Preventative care costs less than treatment and only takes a few minutes. If you have cats and ferrets, keep them indoors to help reduce their risk of being infected. For dogs, make sure to mosquito-proof your yard as much as possible. This includes removing any standing water, regular yard maintenance, and using fans when outside.

 

Heartworm Disease in Pets Infographic

Want to learn more about heartworm in dogs and facts? See the FDA’s page on heartworm that goes into more depth.

How Do I Figure Out Which Pet to Adopt?

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If you are looking for a new pet, figuring out the right one to adopt can be a hard choice. Here I walk you through the questions you need to consider in order to make the right decision for you!

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Getting a Pet

  • What is your lifestyle like?
  • Do you have allergies to fur/dander?
  • Do you travel often?
  • Are you looking for a low maintenance or high maintenance pet?
  • What is your personality like?
  • How small/big of a pet would you like?
  • What can you realistically afford in terms of animal care?

We discuss details on each aspect and what to consider in the video. Once you have had time to think about all of these questions you will have a much better idea of what type of pet is a good fit for your household!

 

More Ideas When Adding a New Pet

Why You Should Adopt 2 Kittens

Getting a Dog – Complete Checklist for New Dog Owners

Getting a Cat – Complete Checklist for New Cat Owners

What is a Trap Neuter Release (TNR) program?

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Today is Feral Cat Day! In honor of our feral feline friends, we wanted to highlight some of our local TNR programs.

What does TNR stand for?

TNR stands for Trap-Neuter-Release or Trap-Neuter-Return.

What is a Trap Neuter Release program?

Sometimes, feral cats cannot be homed. TNR programs provide a humane and effective approach to helping to control the feral cat population. There also are Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) programs that administer rabies and FVRCP vaccines. TNR programs provide more than just a way to stabilize a cat colony. They also help take off the added stress of mating & pregnancy, improve physical health and reduce mating behaviors that humans find disruptive (yowling, spraying).

Can you visually identify cats that are part of TNR programs?

If you ever see a cat with a tipped ear they most likely have been part of a TNR program (like the one in this blogs header image).

What are some rescues in our area that are participating in TNR programs?

  1. Northern Colorado Friends of Ferals
  2. Animal Friends Alliance
  3. Duncan’s Place

For more information on TNR programs visit alleycat.org to learn how TNR programs are beneficial to a community and how TNVR programs work.

Did you learn what a trap neuter release program is? Let us know if you have a cat that’s ever been a part of one in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting.

What Color Should Your Dog’s Toys Be?

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Did you know that dogs are not completely color blind? They can actually see some colors, which makes it hard for dogs to see some toys in the grass. Watch the video to learn more!

 

 

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Fireworks Pet Safety Tips

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Pet Fireworks Safety Tips

Holidays like the 4th of July, New Year, and others are great fun with lots of fireworks but are maybe not as fun for our pets. If you want to keep your dogs and cats happy and healthy, here are all your Fireworks Pet Safety Tips!

1. Fireworks are fun for us, but are scary for pets!

We might love the pretty lights but for many dogs and cats, fireworks can feel like the end of the world. If you keep that in mind it can make it easier to plan for your pets.

2. Make sure all tags and microchips are up-to-date.

If you have moved recently then your information might be out of date. Making sure it is all current will be a life-saver if one of your pets gets out.

3. Have a current picture of your pets, just in case.

If your pet is picked up by animal control you might need to prove ownership. Or if you need to make flyers you will need a current, clear picture ready to go.

4. Set up a safe and quiet place at home.

If your pet does get nervous with the loud noises, it helps to have a quiet area for them to rest. This is also helpful during any festivities like parties and barbecues.

5. Make sure all windows and doors are closed.

If your dog or cat were to get really nervous, jumping out an open window can look like an easy escape. Even screens might not stop a determined pet, so be safe and keep them securely latched.

6. Do not let dogs out loose in the yard.

Your dog may never have shown an interest in jumping a fence before, but scary noises can push a dog to new limits. I have even heard of dogs that jumped the fence while their person was in the yard with them, so be overly cautious.

7. Try calming items like music and ThunderShirts.

For pets that are extra nervous, you can try all sorts of calming items. Loud music that drowns out the sound of the fireworks may help and so may calming music for dogs. So can ThunderShirts, essential oils, and CBD oil (check with experts on these first as some can be toxic to pets).

Fireworks Pet Safety Tips Infographic

 

Be safe and have fun this holiday!