General Archives - Birnam Veterinary Clinic

Your pets and the holidays

Silly season has arrived, which means the end of the year is in sight. Some of you will be going away on holiday, some will have friends and family over to visit, while others may take time off work, stay in and get some much-needed ‘me-time’. Whatever your plans are for the holidays, they spell a change for your pet/s.

In this article, we offer a friendly reminder to be mindful of how the holidays may affect your pet’s emotional and physical wellbeing, and what you can do about it.

When pet parents go on holiday

Thankfully, there’s more and more pet-friendly accommodation available in South Africa, which means that your furry family can accompany you on holiday. While many pets prefer the comfort of the home and routine they’re used to, going on holiday with you is by far the preferred option to being boarded at kennels.

If your pets can’t go with you, ask a reliable friend or family member to pet-sit for you in your own home. Another option is to ask the vet to refer a reliable pet-sitter in your area and interview them well in advance of your travel plans. Introduce the pet-sitter to your pets and allow them to spend time together in your presence so your pets feel (quite literally) at home with them.

Tips for travelling with pets

Get a car seat (for small dogs) or a car seat hammock (for larger dogs) to keep them comfortable and safe during the car ride. Pets should not have free access to the entire vehicle – this can be very distracting to the driver, which makes it dangerous on the road.
Never drive with a dog on your lap – for the safety of you, your dog, and other road users.
A cat should travel in a carrier or crate to help them feel safe. Make sure they are comfortable in the crate long before they need to travel in it for the first time.
Make frequent stops to give your pet/s a pee break and let them stretch their legs. Always put them on a leash before you exit the vehicle.
If they take the opportunity for a poop break, pick up and dispose of their waste responsibly.
Keep a water bowl and fresh water in your vehicle to keep pets hydrated.
Feed your pets a yummy treat a few times throughout the trip to positively reinforce their experience, especially if they are calm and well-behaved.
Make sure your pets are microchipped and wearing a collar with an ID tag clearly showing your contact details. Make it as easy as possible for your pets to find their way back to you should they go missing in an unfamiliar environment.

Tips for your pet’s routine at your holiday destination

Pet-friendly accommodation comes with conditions – for instance, that pets are calm and well-trained, and don’t cause any damage to property. Your pet must be under your control at all times, especially on someone else’s property.
Take your pet’s bedding, grooming tools, food and water bowls, and any other necessities with you. This will give your pet a feeling of familiarity in an unfamiliar environment.
Try to keep your pet’s routine as consistent as possible. Keep their feeding times, playtimes and nap times consistent – this reinforces your pets’ confidence and reduces any fear or anxiety. Even if his environment is unfamiliar, just knowing he will be fed, walked and played with consistently is enough to keep him calm.
Make sure you take enough pet food and treats along with you to last the whole holiday. If you run out of food while away from home, it might be difficult to find the same food brand and variety in an emergency.
Make a note of the nearest veterinarian at your holiday destination and save their contact details and emergency/after-hours phone number in your phone. Just in case.

When pet parents have friends and family over

Most pets prefer the comfort of their own home and thrive on the consistency of a daily routine. If you’re going to enjoy the holidays at home and host friends and family, keep the following in mind for your pets:

There will be more people around, which can either be very exciting or very scary for your pet – depending on how well-socialised they are or whether they prefer a quieter environment.
Advocate for your pets – if they become distressed with too many people around, remove them to a quiet space while the humans are socialising.
Visiting adults and children should respect your pet’s space and need for proper handling. Do not tolerate teasing or indiscriminate feeding of your pet/s.
Let your guests know that some foods are poisonous for dogs and cats, and that to ensure your pets are safe, they must not offer table scraps or any other treats to your pets (to avoid this, teach your pets to not beg for food at the dinner table). The only one who should feed your pet anything is you.
Fireworks are dangerous to pets and people. Do not allow your guests to light fireworks on your property. Not only could they be contravening municipal bylaws, but they could injure and traumatise your pets.
Under normal circumstances, household cleaners, medications, alcohol and other toxic substances should be kept away from your pets. When guests are staying temporarily in your house, it increases the risk of your pets getting hold of something they shouldn’t. Make sure your guests understand these risks and keep their belongings safely stored away.
Ask your guests to be mindful of small objects like Christmas tree decorations, children’s toys, deflated balloons and other objects that may be dangerous should pets swallow them. It’s also a good idea to train your pets to leave non-food objects alone and to not eat anything unless it’s in their food bowl.
If fireworks shows are unavoidable on New Year’s Eve, ask the vet about which calming medications are best suited to your pet’s needs. Calming sprays, gels and collars containing pheromones can be given in the week or two leading up to a stressful event, to help keep pets calm on the evening of the fireworks.
If your guests want to bring their own pets to your property, it’s crucial that both parties’ animals are suitably socialised. Trying to keep pets separated on the same property for the duration of your guests’ stay could be unpleasant and stressful.

Tips regarding ‘holiday food’

The festive season is about rest and relaxation, but mostly it’s about enjoying festive food. Many Christmas foods are highly toxic to our pets, so while it’s a treat to have these on our table, they must be kept far away from pets at this time of year:

chocolate
alcohol
raisins/sultanas
garlic/onion
citrus fruits
xylitol
bones
avocado
macadamia nuts

When pet parents stay in for the holidays

If you’re staying at home and getting some high-quality downtime at the end of this year, your pets may be overjoyed at this prospect. They may take full advantage of you spending more time at home and obviously you’ll enjoy all the benefits of being around them more during the holiday (lowered blood pressure, reduced stress levels, slower heartrate and deeper breathing, muscle relaxation, etc. – all documented effects of petting your furry friend for just 10 minutes).

Having more time available for your pets means more playtime and opportunities for training; but their companionship in general offers huge benefits and can make your holiday at home absolutely worth it. Keep in mind, however, that any new routines that get established while you’re spending more time at home will need to be maintained in the new year. What happens to your pet’s wellbeing and expectations when you return to work? Most pets are highly adaptive, but they thrive on a consistent routine, so be mindful of any changes implemented during the holidays and how they may affect your pets in the long run.

Tips for keeping pets safe during fireworks

Many pets become extremely frightened and traumatised during fireworks displays and thunderstorms. Some pets will go to extremes to escape this experience – jumping through windows, escaping their yards, getting stuck in fences, running into traffic, etc. There are a number of ways to try to keep your pets calm during fireworks and thunderstorms:

‘ThunderShirts’ or anti-anxiety wraps
calming pheromones (which need to be administered in the lead-up to an event to reduce anxiety)
prescription medications
desensitisation training
distracting your pet with music and/or playtime and treats before, during and after a stressful event

Each pet will respond differently to noise and lights stressors, and therefore will respond differently to the above calming methods. If you are concerned about your pet’s safety during fireworks displays and thunderstorms, speak to the vet about the most appropriate solution for your pet’s wellbeing.

Managing your pets’ anxiety

The holiday season is fast approaching and while for many people that means spending more time at home with your furry friends, it also means that your and your pets’ routine is about to change. Perhaps extended family are coming to visit (or you and your pets are going away to visit them). If so, more people (potentially strangers) will be in your pets’ space; there will be more noise and longer days of visiting. Your pets are even sensitive enough to detect any changes in family dynamics – especially around holiday time!

All of this, as well as the danger of the loud noises and bright lights of fireworks and thunderstorms, mean that your pets may get anxious. Mild anxiety may be easily overcome with reassurance from you, but for many pets, anxiety can feel like the end of their world. Here’s what you can do when pets are suffering from anxiety.

What are the signs your pets are anxious?

Dogs are quick to explicitly show how they are feeling. If you have an anxious dog, you will immediately notice some or all of the signs:

panting
yawning
trembling
drooling
whale eyes with their ears pressed back
irritability
snappiness or even aggression
urination or defecation in the house
tucked tail

Different dogs will display different types of anxious behaviour. It’s important to notice whether your dog’s behaviour is out of the ordinary during an anxious episode. Is your normally indifferent dog now very needy and unable to leave you alone? Maybe they are hypervigilant and sensitive to even the smallest changes or movement in the room. You’ll notice when your pup is acting out of sorts.

Cats may show similar signs of anxiety and will display behaviours such as:

hiding
excessive grooming
vocalising (mewling or growling)
trembling
drooling
dilated pupils/hypervigilance
excessive licking of the nose
rapid breathing
pica (eating things that are not food)
diarrhoea/vomiting

What causes pets to become anxious?

When your pet has a consistent routine and a predictable environment, they are calm and confident because they know what to expect. When new variables are introduced to their comfortable routine, they may become anxious because suddenly they don’t know what to expect. Things feel unpredictable and scary, which can be perceived as physically threatening.

If your quiet home is filled with new people during holiday time, your cat may feel like she’s lost control of her environment, or your dog may feel unsure of how to behave, who needs protecting, and how to deal with new people. Pets may feel overwhelmed by new stimuli, especially if they are approached by pet-friendly strangers who want to pet and engage with them. Sometimes even the most socialised pets will become anxious by this.

Loud noises – whether from fireworks, Christmas crackers, or jovial socialising – can be very scary to your extra sound-sensitive pet. Pets can be photosensitive too, which, coupled with loud noises, can be particularly fear-inducing for your dog or cat.

How do you calm a fearful dog?

From as early on as possible, puppies need to be socialised with as many different people and animals as possible in a range of different environments. Ultimately, this will help them to build confidence and not be so fearful of new situations, people and other pets. That being said, even the most well-socialised animals can still experience anxiety in unpredictable situations. The following solutions can help to decrease their anxiety levels:

Take them out of the stressful environment

If you’re having a dinner party, remove your dog to another room, away from the noise and lights, and give him a chew toy or a comforting plushie. If he’s trained, give him the ‘place’ command and reward him with some treats for going to his bed.

Do a quick training routine

With a handful of treats, give your dog the ‘sit’ command and reward him. ‘Down’, ‘stay’ and other behavioural commands with rewards for obedience can completely change your dog’s demeanour and bring him out of his anxious state.

Don’t reward the stress

It’s important to give your dog a job to do (‘sit’, ‘down’, ‘paw’) before giving him treats as a comfort for his anxiety. By giving him treats or a toy without a command, it could be seen as rewarding the anxiety, which can become problematic in the long run.

Exercise and play

If you’re anticipating your pup getting anxious around the guests and noise, spend some time exercising and playing with him earlier in the day. Pent-up energy can worsen the effects of anxiety, so tire him out first. The serotonin from the enjoyment of playtime can help your dog to relax. If your dog is nervous and withdrawn while your guests are around, spend time playing with him afterwards to get rid of his anxious energy.

Pheromones in the environment

Calming collars, diffusers, sprays, gels and tablets can help to regulate your dog’s anxiety with the distribution of pheromones. If you’re anticipating a large dinner party, family members coming to stay, or a fireworks display, start giving your dog pheromone therapy for a week or two in advance. This can help to keep him calm when these holiday events arise.

Calming music

Dogs respond well to calming music – classical music works exceptionally well and can be used to calm a dog down ahead of time or during an anxiety-inducing event.

Desensitisation

If you’re anticipating a thunderstorm or fireworks and you know your dog is going to be terrified, try a desensitisation strategy a few weeks in advance. Play the sounds of a thunderstorm – quietly at first and gradually increase the volume over time (hours or days) as your dog does not display signs of anxiety. If he becomes aware of the sounds, reward him with a treat or playtime – this will help to change his response to the noise. Done thoughtfully and consistently, desensitisation can offer your dog relief from the anxiety associated with loud noises.

Veterinary assistance

If your dog is extremely anxious and shuts down completely or is uncontrollably stressed, arrange a visit with the vet to address the problem. Make a note of all the strategies you’ve adopted that have not been effective. The vet may prescribe anti-anxiety medication and suggest behaviour therapy and counter-conditioning with a behavioural specialist.

How can you help your cat with anxiety?

Cats can do equally well with socialisation and exposure to different people and animals. However, cats – more so than dogs – are either sociable or more independent and will choose when they prefer the company of others (or not). If your cat is anxious when there are lots of people around and especially lots of noise, try some or all of the following to relieve her anxiety:

Take her to a safe space

If you often find your cat hiding in the linen cupboard or behind the couch when you have company over, it should give you an indication that she needs a safe space away from the crowds and the noise. Provide a comfy cat ‘cave’ if your cat likes to hide; or a tall cat tree or window perch if she likes to be away from the party, but to still observe her surrounds.

Exercise and play

Engage your cat’s hunting instincts with a feather toy, laser pointer, wind-up mouse or catnip toy. This will encourage engagement with reward-based behaviours, which help to reduce her anxiety.

Keep the litterbox clean

Some cats’ anxiety is elevated by a soiled litterbox. Double up on the frequency of scooping the litterbox or even put out another litterbox just in case.

Pheromone therapy

As with dogs, cats may respond well to the relaxing effect of pheromone diffusers, sprays, food additives and tablets.

Natural remedies

From catnip to CBD oil and valerian herbal remedies – there are a range of natural remedies that can help to calm down anxious cats. Speak to the vet about which remedy could be most effective for your cat. Be very careful of essential oil diffusers, as these may release fumes that are toxic to pets.

Calming music

Like dogs, cats also have super-sensitive hearing, and respond positively to soft, calming music. When playing music to counter the effects of thunderstorms or fireworks, also close the curtains and make sure your cat’s environment is safe and muted.

Veterinary assistance

If your cat does not seem to be responding positively to your anti-anxiety efforts, schedule a visit to the veterinarian to discuss possible solutions. The vet may prescribe anti-anxiety medication, but a long-term strategy will need to be devised to reduce your cat’s anxiety in a healthy way, and increase your cat’s quality of life in the long run.

Allergies to cats

What are allergies?

Allergies are your body’s immune system over-reacting to a substance or material that is innocuous and shouldn’t cause a reaction (referred to as an allergen). When the body then encounters this allergen it launches an excessive immune response resulting in symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, wheezing, itchy or swollen eyes, and rashes or hives.

How do cats cause allergies?

Allergies to pets are very common and allergies to cats are twice as common as to dogs. There are 8 allergens produced by cats of which secretoglobulin Fel d 1 is the most important. This substance is produced by sebaceous glands, anal glands and salivary glands in cats. It is found in the saliva and in cat dander and fur.

Which cat breeds are hypoallergenic?

These Fel d 1 allergens are present in all cats which means that unfortunately there is no such thing as a “hypoallergenic cat”. We do know however, that certain breeds of cats produce less Fel d 1, which means that they tend to elicit less severe symptoms in individuals allergic to cats.

It may seem counterintuitive, but many of the breeds that are considered less allergenic are long-haired cats. The theory is that the gene governing the production of Fel d 1 is associated with the gene for medium to long hair.

Studies have also found that female cats produce less allergens that males and that neutered males produce less than intact males.
Based on studies and owner experiences the following cat breeds are considered to be less allergenic:

Siberian
Balinese
Devon Rex
Cornish Rex
Abyssinian

How can I decrease my allergy symptoms with a cat in my household?

Apart from the breed you choose to own, there are also other methods to ameliorate symptoms of cat allergies.

Ensure that your cat is fed a high quality diet, particularly one high in Omega 3-and 6 fatty acids. These fatty acids help to promote healthy skin and coat and decrease dander being shed.
Ensure that your cats are treated against external parasites such as ticks, fleas and mites at all times to minimize scratching, which will release more dander into the air.
Consider choosing smooth flooring instead of carpeting and furnishings such as blinds instead of curtains. Carpets and soft furnishings, particularly those with a thick pile, are far more inclined to accumulate dander.
Vacuum clean your home regularly with a vacuum cleaner that filters fine particles (so that they are not simply recycled back into the air).
Clean hard furnishings and furniture with damp cloths, avoid feather dusters which will simply lift all the dust and dander back up into the air.
Air filters with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters will help to decrease allergens in the air.
Ensure good ventilation in the home.
Bathing your cat will decrease the amount of dander on their body and in the air. However the levels of dander will return back to normal on your cat within two days and the effect in the home is less than 24 hours. Bathing your cat every week or two may decrease the amount of allergens in your home over time.

Depending on the severity of your allergies, you can take antihistamines to treat the symptoms. Should you be planning on visiting a household with cats in, it would be beneficial to start taking antihistamines a few weeks before your visit.

If your symptoms are very severe, speak to your primary health care practitioner about allergen specific immunotherapy. This consists of periodic injections to gradually desensitize your body to a particular allergen. This type of gradual desensitization may explain why certain people with mild symptoms may develop tolerance to the cats in their household.

Nutritional Supplements for Pets

I’m concerned that my pet’s diet may be deficient in vitamins and omega-3s. Can I give her supplements?

High-quality nutrition

We know that people who eat healthily and have an active lifestyle have a longer life expectancy than those who do not. The same is true for our pets. If you want your furry friend to live a longer, healthier life, it’s crucial that you feed them a high-quality, veterinary-approved diet. These diets have been scientifically formulated and balanced to meet each type of pet’s specific needs. Choose the right diet for your dog’s breed, size, age and activity levels to give them optimal nutrition. Cats need feline-specific nutrition designed to meet their needs based on age, breed, activity levels and other explicit conditions (obesity, sensitive tummy, dental health, hairball-prone, etc.). When purchasing pet food, you get what you pay for. There is no degree of nutritional supplementation that can compensate for feeding a cheap, poor-quality diet.

Supplements are available for various conditions

Nutritional supplements are vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that are added to your pet’s diet to balance and enhance it. Various nutrients serve specific functions in the body, and these may be incorporated directly into the food or may be given as tablets, powders or liquids.

General health and condition supplements

If you are feeding your pet a high-quality commercially produced diet that is appropriate for their condition, you should not need to add any supplements, provided that your pet is healthy. Home-cooked diets may be provided with the best intentions towards your pet’s health, but they can, however, be deficient in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients for overall good health. These diets may need to be supplemented, in which case it’s very important to use a species-specific supplement to avoid deficiencies or toxicities.

Joint supplements

These supplements are prescribed for pets that are predisposed to and/or suffering from osteoarthritis (a chronic inflammatory condition of the joints, which causes pain and loss of mobility). Joint supplements contain ingredients that have anti-inflammatory effects in the joint, protect cells from free radical damage, and provide building blocks for cartilage and joint fluid. Important ingredients to look out for in joint supplements are glucosamine, chondroitin, EPA and DHA (omega-3 fatty acids), vitamins E and C, and green-lipped mussel extract.

Skin supplements

Skin supplements are typically prescribed for pets with skin allergies or dry, flaky, itchy skin. These supplements are designed to provide nutrients essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. They also have an anti-inflammatory effect. Important ingredients include omega-3 and 6 fatty acids (found in flaxseed, evening primrose and marine fish oils), vitamins A, C and E, biotin, nicotinamide and zinc. Humans and animals have different requirements for omega-3 and 6 fatty acids; therefore, you should not use a human supplement for your pets.

Geriatric supplements

As our pets age they may start to experience deteriorating eyesight, a decline in cognitive function, decreased mobility and a deterioration in general body condition. They can also become deficient in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients as they tend to eat less due to their decreasing appetite. Supplements for geriatric animals contain ingredients that aid brain function, provide joint support and help maintain lean muscle mass. Important ingredients include omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, carotenoids and flavonoids, vitamin E, L-carnitine, antioxidants and taurine.

Calming supplements

Anxiety in dogs and cats can manifest as behavioural problems as well as medical conditions. Some dogs are prone to stress-induced tummy upsets, where cats are prone to urinary tract problems. Ingredients in calming aids that are useful include theanine, tryptophan, vitamins B1, B3, B6 and B12, and milk hydrolysates such as alpha casozepine.

Liver supplements

Liver supplements are used for liver failure, hepatitis and damage to the liver as result of toxin exposure. They contain ingredients that support liver function, decrease inflammation and provide nutrients that the liver may struggle to produce if it’s under strain. Important ingredients are milk thistle, thioctic acid, pangamic acid, L-carnitine, vitamins E and K, and B-complex vitamins.

Kidney supplements

Kidney supplements are used for pets at risk of and/or suffering from chronic kidney failure. They contain ingredients that bind phosphate in the intestine (as excess phosphate levels worsen kidney failure) and have protective effects on the kidneys (anti-inflammatories and antioxidants). Ingredients to look out for are omega-3 fatty acids, co-enzyme Q10, chitosan, vitamin C, B-complex vitamins and vitamin E. Interestingly, the addition of omega-6 fatty acids to the diet has been shown to be detrimental to patients suffering from kidney disease. Be very careful when selecting any supplements for patients with kidney failure as they have very specific nutrient requirements and restrictions. Giving an inappropriate supplement may negatively affect your pet.

Digestive supplements

Most digestive supplements are given to patients suffering from gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea. Important ingredients are prebiotics, probiotics, glutamine, gastrointestinal adsorbents, vitamins and minerals. Probiotics are live healthy bacteria, whereas prebiotics are special fibres that feed those healthy bacteria. Glutamine is an amino acid that is used by the intestinal lining cells to regenerate. Kaolin, pectin and diosmectite are intestinal adsorbents that help to mop up toxins from the intestine (such as those produced by bacteria during infections). Vitamins and minerals are added to replace those lost during vomiting or diarrhoea.

Calcium supplements

Calcium supplements are to be used with extreme caution and only under instruction from the veterinarian. They may be prescribed to lactating bitches and queens showing symptoms of inadequate calcium levels. However, if these supplements are fed to animals that do not have a calcium deficiency, the body’s natural processes that balance calcium are disrupted, which may lead to more severe signs of hypocalcaemia (low calcium levels) when the body’s need is at its highest. Supplementing calcium in especially large breed puppies can lead to growth abnormalities.

Quality and safety of supplements

There is no legal requirement for the quality control of supplements. Studies have shown that a large proportion of supplements do not contain the ingredients they claim to on the packaging. Some products have even been found to contain toxic substances. This is why you should always only use products that have been recommended by the veterinarian.

Conclusion

Good nutrition is a cornerstone of your pet’s health. Speak to the veterinary team about which diets they would recommend for your individual pet’s needs. The veterinarian can recommend any additional supplements that they feel are necessary for your pet’s wellbeing. Only use products from reputable companies and never use human supplements for your pets.

How to manage a pet that is having seizures

It’s a frightening experience to witness your dog or cat having a seizure. In everyday life, pets are conscious and aware of their owners, responding to your words and actions, but during a seizure, a dog or cat may be standing up or lying on their side, staring blankly, twitching, convulsing and drooling, or making some seemingly terrifying sounds. You may feel scared and helpless, not knowing what’s happening to your pet or what you can do to ease their seeming discomfort.

In this article, we’ll explore what pet seizures are, what the symptoms are, what triggers them, how they are diagnosed and what you can do to manage your pet’s seizures.

What is a pet seizure?

A seizure in a pet is a burst of abnormal brain activity or a temporary disruption of normal brain function. It results in the loss of control of an animal’s motor function, which is why their muscles stiffen and/or twitch or they experience convulsions. Having a seizure is fairly common in dogs, but rarer in cats. Seizures can be a once-off or they can happen fairly regularly, depending on the cause.

What causes seizures in pets?

Epilepsy is the most common cause of seizures in pets. When all other causes are ruled out, your pet may be diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy. ‘Idiopathic’ refers to the nature of the condition in that it happens spontaneously with an unknown cause. Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common cause of seizures in dogs younger than eight years old, but there may be other causes of seizures such as:

blood abnormalities: anaemia; low blood sugar; stroke; poor blood circulation in the brain; high or low blood pressure
head trauma
calcium deficiency
infectious disease
kidney or liver disease
brain tumour
poisoning/ingesting toxins

Most dog seizure conditions have genetic causes, while in cats, seizures are more commonly caused by disease, tumours, or traumatic head injury. Cat diseases that can cause seizures include feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), toxoplasmosis, and cryptococcus. Cats can also experience seizures when they’ve ingested toxins – such as pesticides or being given tick and flea medication that’s indicated for dogs – or due to metabolic disorders like diabetes.

What are the symptoms of pet seizures?

There may be different symptoms with different seizures, as no two experiences will be the same. Pets having a seizure may include some or most of the following signs and symptoms:

trembling, convulsing
standing motionless
running in circles
falling down
stiff legs/legs sticking straight out
paddling of limbs
staring/glazed look
drooling
persistent/rhythmic barking
loud vocalisation in cats
unprompted aggression
losing bowel control

What can trigger a seizure?

Seizures can be triggered by conditions that change the pet’s brain activity. From a drop in blood pressure or blood sugar, to the effect of liver and kidney function on the brain, to a pet’s excitement, reaction to feeding time, or falling asleep – there are many situations that may trigger a seizure.

Seizures caused by poisoning or an acute condition may be a once-off, while epileptic seizures can occur regularly, but with no warning signs.

Are seizures painful for pets?

Pet seizures are generally not painful for pets, even though it may look or sound like it. Seizures may be potentially harmful if they cause the pet to fall down a flight of stairs, run into something, or knock something over that can cause injury, but the seizure itself is not painful. Your pet may get confused or panic, but rest assured that they are not in pain.

What to do during a seizure

As a pet owner, you may want to do everything you can to prevent your pet’s discomfort during a seizure, but we recommend the following:

remain calm
keep your hands and face away from your pet’s mouth – they may bite
sit near your pet, but don’t try to touch or comfort them – they may be confused or panicked when they ‘come to’ and accidentally bite you
speak in a low, calm tone if you need to offer comfort
don’t worry about your pet swallowing their tongue – this won’t happen
do not touch your pet unless this is required to move them away from stairs or any objects with which they might injure themselves
time the seizure – this will give the vet important information with which to diagnose or monitor your pet’s condition
film the seizure – it may be difficult to re-experience, but filming your pet’s condition during the seizure will once again offer the vet critical information that will help with a diagnosis or monitoring your pet’s condition

If your pet has not yet been diagnosed with epilepsy or you have not seen the vet regarding their condition, it’s time for a veterinary appointment. Your pet’s seizure may last a few minutes, after which they will need some time for recovery. If they experience a seizure cluster, one seizure will follow another with a short recovery period in between. They may appear confused or exhausted afterwards. Once they have recovered enough to be transported, make an appointment with the vet for a thorough examination.

How are pet seizures diagnosed?

It is vital that you give the veterinarian as much information as possible about your pet’s seizure/s as well as their history, diet and lifestyle leading up to their first seizure. The vet may ask questions such as:

When did your pet experience their first seizure?
How long did it last?
Do the seizures occur frequently?
Have you noticed a pattern in the seizures, such as they occur only when your pet is excited, or after a meal, etc.?
Is your pet’s parasite medication up to date?
Do you think your pet has ingested something toxic (such as a poisoned rodent, rotten food, another animal’s faeces, etc.)?
Has your pet shown any other signs of illness or poorliness?

The vet will perform a physical examination of your pet and may do a full panel of blood tests to rule out any other possible illnesses that may be causing the seizures. X-rays and other imaging tests may be necessary, depending on each individual case.

How are pet seizures treated?

Treatment options will depend on the diagnosis reached. In the case of idiopathic epilepsy – the most commonly diagnosed cause of seizures in pets – treatment will focus on the underlying condition and reducing the risk of triggering seizures as well as reducing their severity. It is vital to follow the vet’s instructions for medicating and treating your pet. Any sudden changes to medication may worsen your pet’s condition or trigger more severe seizures.

Keep the vet up to date with your pet’s condition and record their symptoms and any information relating to their illness/seizures that would be relevant at your next visit to the vet.

Adverse Food Reaction in Pets

As logic would go, feeding your dog or cat a high-quality, premium pet food would ensure their nutritional needs are met and they would thrive and live a long and healthy life. This is every pet owner’s objective for their beloved pet. However, some pets – both dogs and cats – can experience what is called an adverse food reaction. In this article, we’ll explore what adverse food reactions are, what causes them, when to take your pet to the vet, and how adverse food reactions are diagnosed and treated.

If you think your pet is experiencing an adverse food reaction, this article may offer clarity on your pet’s condition.

What is an adverse food reaction?

When your pet eats their food and it causes an abnormal response in their body, we call this adverse food reaction (AFR). One or more of the ingredients in their food causes uncomfortable symptoms indicating that something is wrong. The two most common sets of symptoms show up on their skin (dermatological symptoms) and in their tummies (gastrointestinal symptoms).

What are the symptoms of adverse food reaction?

Dogs and cats present the symptoms of AFR a little differently.

Symptoms in dogs

In dogs, their skin symptoms can include:
•   itching
•   rashes
•   skin infections
•   thickening and pigmentation of the skin
•   alopecia (hair loss)

Dogs’ gastrointestinal symptoms can include:
•   abdominal pain
•   diarrhoea
•   vomiting
•   borborygmi (tummy gurgling)

Rare symptoms may include the following:
•   head and neck swelling
•   hives (itchy, raised welts on the skin)
•   life-threatening anaphylaxis (drop in blood pressure; narrowed airways, which affect breathing)

Symptoms in cats

Cats’ skin symptoms can include:
•   itchiness (especially around the head, ears and on the neck)
•   pulling out their hair (due to itchiness)
•   bald spots
•   rashes
•   skin infections

Cats’ gastrointestinal symptoms can include:
•   abdominal pain
•   diarrhoea
•   vomiting
•   borborygmi (tummy gurgling)

Rarer symptoms in cats can include:
•   ear infections
•   eosinophilic plaques (raised wounds on the skin, nose or lips)
•   wheals
•   conjunctivitis

What causes adverse food reactions?

There are two different conditions that can cause your pet to have an adverse food reaction:
• food allergies
• food intolerance

The symptoms for both conditions are the same, but the mechanisms by which they develop are different. When your pet has a food allergy, their own immune system is triggered by an ingredient or protein (or many of them), which then reacts in a way that causes their physical symptoms. Instead of seeing the ingredient as beneficial, their immune system sees it as an invasive threat and subsequently attacks it, resulting in any of the above dermatological or gastrointestinal symptoms.

Common food allergens in dogs include beef, gluten and dairy; while cats are most commonly allergic to beef, dairy and fish. Food allergies in pets can pop up at any time in their lives – even if they’ve been healthy all along. If they’ve been diagnosed with one food allergy, they can also suddenly develop a different food allergy at any time.

If your pet has a food intolerance, it’s an abnormal reaction to a variety of ingredients or even contaminants in the food. Many dogs and especially cats are lactose intolerant, so giving them any dairy can cause mild to severe tummy trouble – this is a good example of food intolerance as an AFR. They may have food intolerances to various proteins and carbohydrates, but also to contaminants like fungi and bacteria, as well as to food preservatives, colourants and flavouring that may be added to pet food.

How are adverse food reactions identified?

Unfortunately for pets and pet owners, testing methods like blood tests, serology and intradermal skin prick tests cannot accurately detect a food allergy, so your best bet is with a food elimination trial. The vet will recommend a prescription diet consisting of one protein and one carbohydrate. Hydrolysed proteins may also be present, which are proteins that have been reduced into particles too small to cause the body to react. A prescription diet also does not contain many of the preservatives and additives in commercial pet food, known to cause a reaction.

Your pet will need to be fed exclusively on the prescription diet for eight to 12 weeks. It is critically important to the diagnosis that there be no deviation from the prescription diet – no snacks, table scraps, treats or supplements. After this time, the vet will be able to see if the symptoms have cleared up. When you reintroduce your pet’s original food and they have a flare-up of symptoms again, your vet will confirm that your pet’s symptoms are indeed from an AFR.

How are adverse food reactions treated?

When the vet has confirmed that your pet does indeed have an adverse food reaction, your pet’s best bet for living a healthy life is to avoid the food that is making them sick. Fortunately, there are many pet food options on the market that cater to pets with AFRs, such as protein diets with carefully selected ingredients that don’t contain any of the common allergens. There are also those diets that contain hydrolysed proteins, which are distilled down to a form that should not cause any adverse reactions.

A word on nutritional treatments for AFR pets

Home-cooked meals

Some pet owners are prepared to serve up home-cooked meals comprising novel proteins. While this may seem like the healthiest option and could technically not trigger an AFR, this type of diet does not offer your pet balanced, complete nutrition. Home-cooked meals – while filled with love and good intentions – are often too low in essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. If you want to feed your pet home-cooked meals, this must be done in consultation with a veterinary nutritionist who can determine the right levels of vitamins, minerals, omegas 3 and 6, and other nutrients required for your pet’s health and wellbeing.

Commercial prescription diets

Commercial pet food diets are designed to meet all of your pet’s nutritional needs; and for those pets with AFRs, there are scientifically developed diets containing the right blend of additional or alternative ingredients to meet their needs and avoid allergic or intolerant reactions.

Commercial pet shop diets

Some commercial over-the-counter pet diets make claims about being hypoallergenic, yet traces of allergens can still be found in their food. This happens when the pet food factories don’t have measures in place to prevent contamination from regular pet food, which is made in the same facility.

Based on your pet’s needs, the vet will recommend a prescription diet for your food-sensitive pet, and it’s in your pet’s best interest to follow the vet’s recommendation.

The long road to health

The food elimination trial can be a tricky process – just one step in the long road to correctly identifying, isolating and treating your pet’s adverse food reaction. No pet owner wants to see their pet in distress or decline, so it’s best to work closely with the vet, keep an eye on your pet’s diet, symptoms and progress, and follow the vet’s advice and guidance on your pet’s health and wellbeing.

Pancreatitis in dogs

The pancreas is an organ located near the stomach and alongside the small intestine. It is responsible for producing most digestive enzymes as well as hormones (such as insulin) that regulate blood glucose. Pancreatitis in dogs is the condition we see when the pancreas becomes inflamed, leading to vomiting and abdominal pain. This disease can be life-threatening and have long-term effects. In this article we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of pancreatitis.

Pancreatitis presents in two forms, namely acute pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. Acute pancreatitis has a rapid onset with severe symptoms that may be life-threatening. Chronic pancreatitis results from long-standing, low-grade inflammation in the pancreas. This can lead to irreversible changes such as fibrosis (normal tissue being replaced with scar tissue). This condition can be either subclinical (symptoms are not seen), low-grade recurrent (regular bouts of non-specific symptoms such as fussy eating) or occur as flare-ups of acute pancreatitis symptoms.

What causes pancreatitis?

The development of pancreatitis is considered idiopathic, which means that we do not always know exactly what causes it. However, certain risk factors have been identified.

Certain breeds are predisposed to pancreatitis. Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire and other terriers have been shown to be at increased risk for developing acute pancreatitis, while chronic pancreatitis is more common in Cavalier King Charles spaniels, English cocker spaniels, boxers and collies.

Hypertriglyceridaemia (high blood fat levels) and obesity have both been shown to be common in patients presenting with pancreatitis. Dietary indiscretion is the term used to describe dogs eating things they shouldn’t be eating, such as table scraps, large amounts of treats, or digging in the dustbin for discarded foods. This is also very common in patients with pancreatitis. Other possible risk factors include infectious diseases such as biliary, certain drugs, trauma to the abdomen (such as surgery or blunt force trauma) and various endocrine diseases such as hyperadrenocorticism, diabetes mellitus and hypothyroidism.

How does pancreatitis develop?

During acute pancreatitis, the pancreas becomes inflamed when digestive enzymes are activated inside the pancreas instead of in the intestine, there is an accumulation of cellular waste products, and a decrease in blood flow. If this inflammation is very severe it can lead to multiple organ failure and death.

Chronic pancreatitis occurs as a long-standing inflammation of the pancreas that may not be detected. It can also develop after a bout of acute pancreatitis. This ongoing inflammation damages the cells of the pancreas, which can lead to them not performing their functions properly. Dogs can develop diabetes mellitus if the cells aren’t producing enough insulin or they can develop exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) if they aren’t producing adequate digestive enzymes. These diseases are discussed in more detail in other articles.

What are the symptoms of pancreatitis?

The most common symptoms of acute pancreatitis are:

vomiting
abdominal pain
listlessness
weakness
dehydration
diarrhoea
fever

Chronic pancreatitis is more difficult to identify as the symptoms will often be mild and non-specific, such as dogs being fussy with their food, occasionally vomiting or just having an ‘off’ day. Owners may not even really notice that their dog is not well. Chronic pancreatitis can have severe consequences if left untreated, so dogs with chronic mild symptoms of illness should have a full panel of blood and urine tests done. Identifying and managing chronic pancreatitis early on may prevent the development of diabetes mellitus and EPI.

How is pancreatitis diagnosed?

Patients that present with acute pancreatitis will need various tests as no single test can accurately identify pancreatitis. X-rays of the abdomen will help the veterinarian to rule out a foreign object in the GI tract, which also commonly presents as abdominal pain and vomiting. Abdominal ultrasound can help to identify markers of pancreatitis as well as exclude other causes of the symptoms. A specific blood test called canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (cPLi) is a good indicator of the presence or absence of pancreatic disease. A full blood panel can also help to identify any other organ dysfunction possibly associated with pancreatitis. The presence of other organ dysfunction indicates more severe disease with a poorer prognosis.

Chronic pancreatitis is more challenging to identify. The findings on an abdominal ultrasound are oftentimes more subtle than in cases of acute pancreatitis. The cPLi test can also be ambiguous as the levels are often not as high as with acute pancreatitis cases. Repeat blood samples may be needed to correctly identify the problem. Full blood and urine panels are also recommended to exclude other conditions that may mimic chronic pancreatitis.

How is pancreatitis treated?

Aggressive treatment of acute pancreatitis is necessary to prevent full organ failure, which is fatal. The dog will need to be put on a drip, which means they will have to stay in hospital until they have recovered. Depending on the severity of the disease, the dog can be in hospital for three to 10 days or even longer. They will be treated for nausea and pain. Feeding these patients is key to their recovery, but since they are usually unwilling to eat, they may need to be fed with a syringe or have a feeding tube inserted. An ultra-low-fat diet is recommended. Pancreatitis is seldom associated with bacterial infections, so antibiotics are not used unless specifically indicated.
Chronic pancreatitis is often not as severe and may be treated on an outpatient basis. These patients will be given a painkiller if they are experiencing abdominal pain, and an anti-nausea treatment if they are vomiting or not eating.

How is pancreatitis managed in the long term?

Risk factors such as the use of certain drugs or existing endocrine diseases need to be identified and addressed. All dogs that have pancreatitis need to be permanently put on a low-fat diet. Various prescription diets are available that have been specifically formulated for this reason. It is very important that these diets be strictly adhered to because eating fatty foods can trigger pancreatitis. These patients may only receive low-fat treats such as vegetables and fruits and most certainly no human food! If your dog has had pancreatitis, ask the vet to recommend the best low-fat treats for your dog.

Conclusion

Pancreatitis in both its acute and chronic form is a common disease. It is vital to identify and treat it early on to prevent severe consequences. If your dog has pancreatitis, the veterinarian will recommend the treatment they believe is best. It is better to treat the problem aggressively than to treat conservatively and ‘see what happens’. It is important that dog owners strictly adhere to the vet’s instructions to treat and manage their pet’s pancreatitis, and to minimise the risk of severe complications or even shortening their dog’s life.

Your new puppy

Adopting and bringing home a new puppy is a very exciting time. Everything is brand-new for your puppy and for you too. It may feel a bit overwhelming to start afresh with this new life in your home, but here are some very important parts of puppy care that you absolutely should not skip. The over-arching reason for ensuring you check all these care boxes is to keep your puppy as healthy as possible and to be a responsible pet parent.

Keep up your puppy’s vaccinations

Vaccinations are injections given to your puppy to help them produce immunity against some of the most common and dangerous dog diseases. Your puppy will get immunity from various diseases from their mommy, but this immunity starts to decrease when your puppy turns six weeks old. Until your puppy is about 16 weeks old, their immune system is not yet strong enough to fully protect them from these diseases, which is why the vet gives puppies multiple vaccinations at two- to four-week intervals during this time. It is important that their last vaccine against canine parvovirus is given at 16 weeks or later.

The vaccinations given to your puppy will protect them against canine parvovirus (also called cat flu), canine distemper virus, canine adenovirus type 1 and type 2, canine parainfluenza virus and rabies. Be sure to keep your puppy’s vaccinations up to date.

Remember that your puppy will not have full immunity against diseases until two to three weeks after their 16-week vaccination. For this reason it is important to keep them at home (i.e. do not take them to the park or let them play with other dogs) until they have completed their vaccinations. The only exception to this rule is going to puppy school, where all puppies attending are required to have been vaccinated.

Keep the worms away

Worms have evolved to very successfully transmit themselves from mommy dogs to puppies. Vets consider all young animals to be born with worms, so they deworm puppies at each vaccination. After worms in the intestine have been killed, immature worms from the tissues will move into the intestine. By repeatedly deworming them the vet can kill each new infection that forms. After puppy vaccinations and deworming, dogs should be dewormed once every three months. If your dog is diagnosed with worms, they may be treated more often. Remember that all places where other dogs can be found – like dog parks and walkways – are high-risk areas for your dogs to contract worms.

Test for these parasites before they become a problem

Worms are not the only parasites that can infect your puppy. Giardia and coccidia are common intestinal parasites contracted from the mommy dog that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and a poor appetite (from the infections giardiasis and coccidiosis). The vet should test your new puppy for these parasites as soon as you’ve adopted them. If these parasites are found, the vet will be able to treat your puppy before they become very ill.

Always prevent ticks and fleas

Ticks and fleas are parasites that live on your dog’s skin. They suck blood, which can cause anaemia (low red blood cell levels) and make your puppy or dog weak and lethargic. Fleas cause itchiness and ticks can transmit diseases such as tick bite fever. These parasites can be as small as the head of a pin, so not being able to see them does not mean your pet doesn’t carry them. Your puppy can pick up these parasites when going for walks in the park, from the garden or from your home and other pets. The best way to control ticks and fleas is to preventatively treat your puppy against these parasites. The vet will help you to choose the best product for your needs. A common misconception is that these treatments are only necessary in the warm months of the year, but that’s not necessarily true. Although ticks and fleas will decrease during the cooler months, they will never go away entirely, which is why all vets recommend maintaining parasite treatments throughout the year.

Your puppy’s nutritional needs

We already know that people who eat a nutritious diet are healthier and live longer lives than people who eat an unhealthy diet. The same is true for our pets. Good nutrition is particularly important in puppies as their bodies are growing and developing at a very rapid rate. The vet will recommend a scientifically balanced diet that has been designed to meet all of your puppies’ nutritional requirements to grow up strong and healthy. Your puppy should be able to chew pelleted or kibble foods from six weeks of age, so from this time, it is important to feed your puppy only the recommended diet with occasional dog treats. This means that your puppy should not be getting any human food. Our food can be too rich for their little tummies and some of the ingredients we use can be toxic to dogs. Bones are an absolute no-no for any dog. They carry various health risks and much healthier options for chewing and gnawing are available for your pet. The vet will advise you on the best diet for your new puppy.

Be puppy-wise and sterilise your pet!

Sterilisation describes the surgical procedure of removing a pet’s reproductive organs so that they are not able to reproduce. In female dogs we call this procedure a spay or ovariohysterectomy. In male dogs we refer to it as neutering or castration. Another familiar term is ‘having them fixed’.

Sterilisation is recommended for many reasons. There is a major pet overpopulation problem in South Africa, with thousands of homeless dogs and cats in shelters, waiting to be adopted. The primary reason for this is indiscriminate breeding and unintended litters from pets that have not been spayed. By having your pet sterilised before they can reproduce, you ensure that fewer animals are abandoned.

There are also important health benefits to sterilisation. Spaying female dogs significantly decreases the chances of them getting mammary gland cancer (like breast cancer) later in life. Pyometra is a life-threatening condition where female dogs get an infection in their uterus. A spay involves the removal of the uterus, so spayed females will never develop that illness. Male dogs that are neutered cannot develop testicular cancer. There are also behavioural benefits: dogs that are sterilised tend to be less aggressive. They are also less inclined to wander the streets, getting lost or injured.

Vets recommend sterilisation of female and small breed male dogs at five to six months of age. Large and giant breed male dogs can benefit from not being sterilised until 12 to 18 months of age, due to the effect of testosterone on bone development. However, this will depend on their behaviour. If the vet starts to see problems in your dog’s behaviour that are related to them not being neutered, they recommend that it be done before those behaviours become permanent.

Pet parents are often concerned about their pet’s personality changing after sterilisation or their pet gaining a lot of weight. It is true that sterilised animals are more prone to being overweight, but simple management of their food intake and ensuring they exercise regularly will keep them in tip top condition. Rest assured that sterilisation will not change your pet’s personality. Each dog is individual, so speak to the vet to get the best advice based on your own dog’s needs.

Microchipping – Never lose your dog

If your pet does not already have a microchip implanted, it is strongly recommended that you do so. The microchip is as small as a grain of rice. It is implanted by injection into the area between the shoulder blades. The procedure is fast and no more painful than a vaccination injection. The microchip transmits a signal with a unique number that is registered to you. Should your pet go missing and be taken to a vet or a shelter, they will be scanned for a microchip. You will then be contacted and your pet can be returned to you. Unfortunately, many animals in South Africa do not have microchips. This leads to large numbers of animals ending up in shelters with their owners never being able to find them. With a microchip, your pet can always find their way back home should they go missing.

Financial peace of mind with pet insurance

Pet insurance is medical cover for your pet. Unfortunately, pet illness and injury are a part of life and veterinary care is necessary and sometimes expensive. Having pet insurance means that you are able to make the best decisions for your pet’s medical care, rather than cutting corners. There are various products available and the vet will advise you on the best one for your pet’s needs. It’s important to consider a plan that provides at least accidental and illness cover, so that you can get care for your pet if they are unwell or have a medical emergency.

Some plans will include a wellness benefit, which will make a contribution to routine care treatments such as annual health checks, vaccinations, deworming, tick and flea treatments and dental procedures. Hereditary illnesses are those that are inherited from the parents and are not often covered in pet insurance policies. Should you have a breed of dog that is known to have hereditary problems, it would be beneficial to include this cover in your policy. When you take out an insurance policy for your pet, make sure that you fully understand the benefits, terms and conditions of your policy, to avoid unwelcome surprises later on.

Socialise your puppy so that they fit right in

The first few months of your puppy’s life are critical to their healthy social and behavioural development. If your puppy has a positive experience getting to know new animals, people and places, it will make them happier and more confident. Puppy socialisation classes are crucial for not only teaching your puppy good behaviour, but also for teaching you how to effectively communicate with them. This will help you to have a well-behaved dog that is not fearful or aggressive.

It is strongly recommended that all puppies attend socialisation classes. It’s also wise to take larger breed and giant breed dogs for obedience training. If your puppy is going to grow into a large and strong dog, it is vital that they are trained to obey your commands so that you are able to handle them on outings such as to the park or to the vet. It is very difficult for the veterinarian to provide good care for your dog if they are aggressive and do not allow the vet to examine or treat them.

Aside from having good manners, going to socialisation and training classes is an important time for you to bond with your new puppy. This will teach them that you are their family and they can trust you.

Socialisation and training classes are not only for puppies. Newly introduced adult dogs, in particular rescues who may have had a rough start in life, will also benefit tremendously from attending socialisation or training classes.

In conclusion

Your new puppy’s life just got so much better, but it’s important that you consider all aspects of their wellbeing and make sure these are met. From medical (vaccination, deworming, parasite control and sterilisation), nutritional, financial and social requirements, to physical exercise and mental stimulation – puppy care is more than just a walk in the park. If you need any help with the care of your new furry family member, please reach out to the vet for a consultation.

Your new kitten

Important things to know about new kitten care

Adopting and bringing home a new kitten is a very exciting time. Everything is brand-new for your kitten and for you too. It may feel a bit overwhelming to start afresh with this new life in your home, but here are some very important parts of kitten care that you absolutely should not skip. The over-arching reason for ensuring you check all these care boxes is to keep your kitten as healthy as possible and to be a responsible pet parent.

Keep up your kitten’s vaccinations

Vaccinations are injections given to your kitten to help them produce immunity against some of the most common and dangerous feline diseases. Your kitten will get immunity against various diseases from the mommy cat, but this immunity starts to decrease when your kitten turns six weeks old. Until your kitten is about 16 weeks old, their immune system is not yet strong enough to fully protect them from these diseases, which is why we give kittens multiple vaccinations at two- to four-week intervals during this time. It is important that their last kitten vaccinations are given at 16 weeks or later.

The vaccinations given to your kitten will provide protection against feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, feline panleukopaenia virus and rabies. Some vaccines have an additional component against Chlamydia conjunctivitis infections. Take note that unfortunately vaccination does not provide 100% protection against all diseases, so it’s vital to limit your kitten’s exposure to potential disease-carrying cats.

What are FIV and FeLV?

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) are common viral infections in cats and can have potentially life-threatening consequences. Kittens can contract these viruses from infected cats that they come into contact with, including the mother cat. They can cause a subclinical infection, meaning that your cat may be infected and not show any symptoms for months or even years. During this time, your cat is a risk for transmitting the virus to other cats.

In the initial stages both viruses can cause a fever, poor appetite and lethargy. If cats recover from this, they can develop a long-standing infection that eventually leads to increased susceptibility to infectious diseases, anaemia, formation of tumours (such as lymphoma) and chronic mouth inflammation, to name a few.

All cats should be tested for FIV and FeLV. Knowing the status of your cats will help you to make informed decisions about allowing your cats to have contact with other cats both in your household and outside (i.e. whether your cat should be kept an indoor-only cat). Cats that carry either or both of these viruses should always be kept separate from other cats. This is to prevent them from infecting other cats, but also to protect them from contracting any infections other cats may be carrying.

The test is performed at the veterinary practice after collection of a blood sample, and the results are usually available within an hour. It’s best to keep your new kitten or cat separate from your other cats (if any) until the statuses of all cats in the household are known.

Keep the worms away

Worms have evolved to very successfully transmit themselves from mommy cats to kittens. Vets consider all young animals to be born with worms, so kittens are dewormed at each vaccination. After worms in the intestine have been killed, immature worms from the tissues will move into the intestine. By repeatedly deworming them the vet can kill each new infection that forms. After kitten vaccinations and deworming, all cats should be dewormed once every three months.

Test for these parasites before they become a problem

Worms are not the only parasites that can infect your kitten. Giardia and coccidia are common intestinal parasites that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and a poor appetite. The vet should test your new kitten for these parasites as soon as you’ve adopted them. If these parasites are found, the vet will be able to treat your kitten before they become very ill.

Always prevent ticks and fleas

Ticks and fleas are parasites that live on your pet’s skin. They suck blood, which can cause anaemia (low red blood cell levels), itching and skin wounds, and transmit diseases. These parasites can be as small as the head of a pin, so not being able to see them does not mean your pet doesn’t carry them. Your kitten can pick them up from your home, your garden, or stray cats that come into your yard. The best means of control is to preventatively treat against these parasites. The vet will help you to choose the best product for your needs. A common misconception is that these treatments are only necessary in the warm months of the year. Although ticks and fleas will decrease during the cooler months, they will never go away entirely, which is why all vets recommend maintaining parasite treatments throughout the year.

Your kitten’s nutritional needs

We already know that people who eat a nutritious diet are healthier and live longer lives than people who eat an unhealthy diet. The same is true for our pets. Good nutrition is particularly important in kittens as their bodies are growing and developing. The vet will recommend a scientifically balanced diet that has been designed to meet all of your kitten’s nutritional requirements to grow up strong and healthy. Your kitten should be able to chew pelleted or kibble foods from six weeks of age, so from this time, it is important to feed your kitten only the recommended diet with occasional cat treats. This means that your kitten should not be getting any human food. Our food can be too rich for their little tummies and some of the ingredients we use can be toxic to cats. The vet will advise you on the best diet for your new kitten.

Be kitten-wise and sterilise your pet!

Sterilisation describes the surgical procedure of removing a pet’s reproductive organs so that they are not be able to reproduce. In female cats we call this procedure a spay or ovariohysterectomy. In male cats we refer to it as neutering or castration. Another familiar term is ‘having them fixed'.

Sterilisation is recommended for many reasons. There is a major pet overpopulation problem in South Africa, with thousands of homeless dogs and cats in shelters waiting to be adopted. The primary reason for this is indiscriminate breeding and unintended litters from pets that have not been spayed. By having your pet sterilised before they can reproduce, you ensure that fewer animals are abandoned.

There are also important health benefits to sterilisation. Spaying female cats decreases the chances of them getting mammary gland cancer (like breast cancer) later in life. Pyometra is a life-threatening uterus infection, which can be avoided altogether by having your cat spayed as the uterus will be removed. Sterilised cats are less likely to roam far and fight with other cats. This means they are less likely to be hit by cars, mauled by dogs, get into cat fights and contract infections such as FIV and FeLV. Additionally, male cats are very inclined to mark their territory by urinating (referred to as ‘spraying’) on walls, doors and other upright objects. This behaviour is lessened in male cats neutered at a young age.

Vets recommend sterilisation at an age of five to six months old, as cats are mature enough to mate and produce kittens at this age already. It is better to have this procedure done sooner rather than later.

Pet parents are often concerned about their pet’s personality changing after sterilisation or them gaining weight. It is true that sterilised animals are more prone to being overweight, but simple management of their food intake and ensuring they get enough daily exercise will keep them in tip top condition. Rest assured that sterilisation will not change your pet’s personality.

Microchipping – Never lose your cat

If your pet does not already have a microchip implanted, it is strongly recommend that you do so. The microchip is as small as a grain of rice and gets implanted by injection into the area between the shoulder blades. The procedure is fast and no more painful than a vaccination injection. The microchip transmits a signal with a unique number that is registered to you. Should your pet go missing and be taken to a vet or a shelter, they will be scanned for a microchip. You will then be contacted and your pet can be returned to you. Unfortunately, many animals in South Africa do not have microchips. This leads to large numbers of animals ending up in shelters with their owners never being able to find them. By having a microchip your pet can always find their way back home should they go missing.

Financial peace of mind with pet insurance

Pet insurance is medical cover for your pet. Unfortunately, pet illness and injury are a part of life and veterinary care is necessary and sometimes expensive. Having pet insurance means that you are able to make the best decisions for your pet’s medical care, rather than cutting corners. There are various products available and the vet will advise you on the best one for your needs. It’s important to consider a plan that provides at least accidental and illness cover, so that you can get care for your pet if they are unwell or have a medical emergency.

Some plans will include a wellness benefit, which will make a contribution to routine care treatments such as annual health checks, vaccinations, deworming, tick and flea treatments and dental procedures. Hereditary illnesses are those that are inherited from the parents and are not often covered in pet insurance policies. Should you have a breed of cat that is known to have hereditary problems, it would be beneficial to include this cover in your policy. When you take out an insurance policy for your pet, make sure that you fully understand the benefits, terms and conditions of your policy, to avoid unwelcome surprises later on.

In conclusion

Your new kitten’s life just improved ten-fold, but it’s important that you consider all aspects of their wellbeing and make sure these are met. From medical (vaccination, deworming, parasite control and sterilisation), nutritional, financial and social requirements, to physical exercise and mental stimulation – kitten care involves many more facets than simply play, feed and sleep. If you need any help with the care of your new furry family member, please reach out to the vet for a consultation.

Administering oral, topical, ear and eye medication to cats and dogs

At some point in every pet’s life, they will need at-home treatment for a chronic or an acute illness, recurring infection, parasite control, wound care, etc. This is why it’s important for every pet parent to know how to give pets medication at home to complete their treatment. These are basic methods that are generally applicable to dogs and cats under average circumstances – we understand that some pets may be easier to handle or more relaxed than others, but we hope these tips will help most pet parents to better administer their pets’ medicines.

Tips for giving pets a pill

Most pet medications the vet will send home with you are given in pill format, and the easiest way to give your pet a pill is to disguise it in something yummy. You could wrap a dog treat around the pill, stick it in a piece of cheese or cold meat, or cover it with peanut butter or yoghurt – anything to make your dog think he’s getting a treat rather than his medication. Cats may be more difficult to fool because they tend to chew their food and treats more thoroughly, and if they find a hidden pill, they will most likely just spit it out. Avoid giving your pets human foods like avocado, anything containing xylitol, chocolate, and grapes/raisins. If there’s a risk of your pet realising they’re being duped, prepare three treats: feed them the first one, pill the second one, and follow it up straight away with the third one. In their anticipation of the third treat, your pet will swallow the pilled treat without noticing something 'a little different' in it.

If your pet is relaxed and used to being handled, you could simply open their mouth (gently opening their lower jaw instead of trying to raise their top jaw) and push the pill towards the back of their throat. If it’s far back enough, the animal’s natural reflex will be to swallow. To ensure it goes down the hatch, you could push the pill in, then quickly but gently hold their mouth closed and blow a little puff of air at their nose, which will stimulate their reflex to swallow.

If you’re nervous of putting your fingers in your pet’s mouth, the next best option is to use a pill popper, which is available from any vet shop or online pet store. It looks like a peashooter and is designed to be placed into the pet’s mouth, ejecting the pill far enough towards the back of the throat without your fingers getting in the way.

If you need to give a pill to a difficult cat or small dog, gently wrap a blanket or towel around them to keep their paws and claws out of the way. Hold the wrapped pet against your body with your non-dominant arm and administer the pill with your dominant hand. If your pet gets angry or shows any signs of being in pain, rather stop and wait until they are calm and/or sleepy before trying again.

Do not assume you can simply crush the pill and mix it in with your pet’s food. There are two risks associated with this: Some medication is designed to be absorbed further along the digestive tract, so crushing the pill will result in premature absorption, which will lower or eliminate the efficacy of the function of the medication – i.e. it won’t work. Also, if your pet doesn’t eat all their food, they won’t take in the required dosage of medication.

Tips for giving pets liquid medication

Similarly, ensure your pet is calm or sleepy before giving them liquid medication. The medication will usually be in a syringe, which can be inserted into your pet’s mouth from the side and squirted across the tongue. Don’t tilt your pet’s head back and aim the syringe directly into the back of the throat – there is a risk that it can enter your pet’s airway. Their head should be level and their lower jaw should be the ‘moving part’. Once you have squirted the liquid medication, gently keep their mouth closed and stroke their throat to stimulate them to swallow.

Liquid medication can also be mixed into a palatable treat like peanut butter, cream cheese or a pet food topper (sauce). Once again, the risk is that your pet won’t consume the whole dosage of medication, but this is an effective way to administer a liquid medication if your pet’s mouth is difficult to handle.

Tips for administering topical medication on pets

Topical medication is usually prescribed for wound care or skin infections and is quite simple to apply. The tricky part is ensuring your pet doesn’t groom immediately after application or try to lick off the medication. Since a lot of topical medications contain steroids, always use latex gloves when applying the ointment. Steroidal creams should never be administered by pregnant women.

To stop your pet from trying to lick the ointment off the treated area, apply it immediately before their dinner time or have a play session with your cat or take your dog for a walk afterwards. This will give the ointment time to absorb and get to work while your pet is distracted. If all else fails, it’s time to use an Elizabethan collar (or ‘cone of shame’) to discourage your pet from licking at their topical medication.

Tips for administering eye medication to dogs and cats

Dust, pollen, genetics or traumatic injury may make it necessary for your pet to get eyedrops. Before using the eyedrops on your pet, first clean the area around the eye with warm water and a ball of cottonwool. Make sure your pet is calm or sleepy – administering eyedrops to an excitable dog or to a cat who wants to be anywhere but there will make it all the more difficult.

Position yourself behind your calm, relaxed pet and keep the bottle of eye medication out of their sight. Hold your non-dominant hand under your pet’s lower jaw and tilt their head slightly upwards – this opens their eyes naturally. Holding the bottle of eyedrops/medication in your dominant hand, place the side of your palm on the top of your dog or cat’s head, which will give you some leverage to also gently pull the scalp back, opening their eyes even more. The position of your hands means that if your pet’s head moves, your hands move with it. Try not to force their head to stay in one place as this will make them anxious. Gently squeeze the recommended dosage of drops from about 2cm above – do not hold the nozzle too close to the eye as there is a risk of injury if your pet suddenly jerks their head. To prevent your pet from rubbing at their eye, hold your hand over their closed eye for a few moments, allowing the medication to get to work.

Tips for administering ear medication to dogs and cats

Some dogs are more susceptible to ear infections than others and will need their ears to be cleaned regularly. When they are used to this treatment, it becomes easier and quicker to clean their ears. All that’s required is a cotton ball and some ear cleaner. Do not use earbuds to try to clean inside the ear canal, and do not force the cotton ball into the ear. To apply the ear cleaner, hold your pet’s ear flap open and carefully insert the nozzle of the bottle into the external ear canal. Squeeze some liquid into the ear and gently massage the base of the ear to help the liquid penetrate into the canal. Be warned: Your pet may shake their head vigorously, which may send excess ear liquid flying. Have a towel and some cotton wool ready, and don’t medicate your pet’s ears near any expensive décor or furniture.

Prescribed medication for ear infections can be applied in the same way, but always read the instructions to ensure you administer it correctly.

General tips for administering pet medication

Keep calm. Your pet can sense your emotions and will respond accordingly. Approach the process calmly and confidently to ensure the correct application of the medication.
Speak to your pet in a soothing manner and give them verbal praise for being a ‘good boy’ or ‘good girl’ throughout the process. If they become agitated; stop. Rather try again later.
If you are really struggling to administer your pet’s medication, ask the vet for advice, as each individual pet may have a different reaction to receiving their treatment.
Make sure your pet receives the full required dosage of medication as prescribed.
When your pet has received their pill, liquid medication, eye or ear treatment, or the topical medication has been applied and they are suitably distracted, lavish animated praise on your pet. This positive reinforcement will help them to associate receiving medication with feeling good.
Do not share medications amongst pets.
Always finish the full course of medication as prescribed by your vet.