As pet owners in Tucson, we cherish the companionship and joy our furry friends bring into our lives. However, just like us, our pets can face health challenges. In this guide, we will explore the 5 common pet health issues affecting animals in Tucson and provide you with actionable tips on preventing them. By understanding these potential problems and taking preventive measures, you can ensure your pets lead long, happy, and healthy lives.
1. Obesity and Overweight Pets
Obesity is a prevalent health issue among pets in Tucson, just as it is among humans. Many factors contribute to this problem, such as overfeeding, lack of exercise, and high-calorie treats. The consequences of obesity in pets can be severe, leading to joint problems, heart disease, and a reduced lifespan.
To prevent obesity in your pets, follow these tips:
Proper Diet: Consult with a veterinarian to determine the right portion sizes and the best diet for your pet’s age, size, and breed.
Regular Exercise: Engage your pets in daily physical activities to keep them active and maintain a healthy weight.
Limit Treats: Be mindful of treat consumption and opt for healthier options like carrots or low-calorie treats.
2. Dental Health Issues
Dental problems are common in pets, and they can lead to discomfort, bad breath, and even more severe health issues. Regular dental care is essential to prevent dental diseases in your furry companions.
Here’s how to maintain your pet’s dental health:
Regular Brushing: Brush your pet’s teeth regularly using a pet-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste.
Chew Toys: Provide chew toys designed to promote dental health and reduce plaque buildup.
Annual Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to detect any dental issues early.
3. Fleas, Ticks, and Parasites
Tucson’s warm climate makes it an ideal breeding ground for fleas, ticks, and parasites. These pesky creatures can cause discomfort, transmit diseases, and even lead to severe health problems if left untreated.
To protect your pets from fleas, ticks, and parasites:
Regular Grooming: Groom your pets regularly and check for signs of fleas or ticks.
Flea Preventatives: Use veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventatives.
Indoor Cleanliness: Keep your living spaces clean and vacuum regularly to prevent infestations.
4. Heatstroke and Dehydration
The scorching Tucson summers can be particularly challenging for our furry friends. Heatstroke and dehydration are significant concerns for pets in hot weather.
To keep your pets safe during hot weather:
Ample Water Supply: Ensure your pets have access to fresh water at all times.
Shade and Rest: Provide shaded areas and encourage your pets to rest during the hottest parts of the day.
Avoid Overexertion: Limit outdoor activities in extreme heat, especially during peak sun hours.
5. Allergies
Pets can develop allergies, just like humans. Allergies may be triggered by food, environmental factors, or even certain grooming products.
To manage pet allergies:
Identify Allergens: Work with your veterinarian to identify and eliminate potential allergens.
Hypoallergenic Diet: Consider a hypoallergenic diet if food allergies are suspected.
Medication and Treatment: Follow your veterinarian’s advice on allergy medications or treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I tell if my pet is overweight?
A: You can check if your pet is overweight by feeling their ribs; they should be easily felt without excess fat covering them.
2. Can dental issues cause other health problems in pets?
A: Yes, untreated dental problems can lead to more severe health issues, affecting the heart, kidneys, and overall well-being of your pet.
3. Are natural flea preventatives effective?
A: Some natural flea preventatives can be effective, but it’s best to consult with your veterinarian for the most reliable solutions.
4. Can I leave my pet outside during the summer?
A: While pets can enjoy outdoor time, make sure they have access to shade, water, and are not left outside during the hottest parts of the day.
5. What are the common signs of pet allergies?
A: Common signs of pet allergies include itching, redness, skin rashes, sneezing, and gastrointestinal issues.
Conclusion
Being aware of the 5 common pet health issues in Tucson and taking preventive measures is crucial for ensuring the well-being of your beloved pets. By following the tips provided in this guide and working closely with your veterinarian, you can provide the best care and support to keep your furry companions healthy and happy. Remember, a healthy pet is a happy pet! Contact us if your pet is feeling sick and need professional help!
As a pet owner, it is essential to be aware of the foods toxic to dogs and cats. Some foods that are perfectly safe for humans can be very harmful to dogs and cats. Pets are like family members; as responsible pet owners, we are responsible for keeping them safe and healthy. One way to ensure their safety is to avoid feeding them foods that harm their health. Even though we may enjoy these foods, they can cause severe damage to our pets’ health. In this article, we will discuss ten common foods that can be toxic to your pets and explain why they should be avoided.
Below are ten common foods that are toxic to dogs and cats.
Chocolate
Chocolate is a popular treat for humans but is one of the most dangerous foods for dogs and cats. Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death in pets. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is for your pet.
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs and cats. The exact toxic substance in grapes and raisins is unknown, but even small amounts can harm pets. Grape and raisin toxicity symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and dehydration.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage your pet’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Onion and garlic toxicity symptoms include weakness, lethargy, vomiting, and breathing difficulties.
Avocado
Avocado contains a toxin called persin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs and cats. The pit of the avocado can also be a choking hazard, and it can cause an intestinal obstruction if ingested.
Alcohol
Alcohol can be very harmful to pets. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and even coma or death. Even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous to pets, so it is important to keep it away from them at all times.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia in dogs. The exact cause of macadamia nut toxicity is unknown, but even small amounts can harm pets.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in many sugar-free gums and candies. It can cause a rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in dogs. Symptoms of xylitol toxicity include vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures.
Fat Trimmings and Bones
Feeding your pets fat trimmings and bones can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and pancreatitis (pancreas inflammation). Bones can also splinter and cause intestinal blockages or puncture the digestive tract.
Raw Meat and Fish
Raw meat and fish can contain bacteria and parasites that can cause pet food poisoning. Symptoms of food poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
FAQs
1. What should I do if my pet has ingested toxic food?
If you suspect that your pet has eaten toxic food, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. They can advise you on what to do next, which may include inducing vomiting or providing other treatments.
2. How can I prevent my pet from eating toxic foods?
The best way to prevent your pet from eating toxic foods is to keep these foods out of reach. Store foods in secure containers or cabinets, and dispose of any leftovers properly.
3. Can cats and dogs eat the same foods?
No, cats and dogs have different nutritional needs and digestive systems. Some foods safe for dogs can be toxic to cats, so it is essential to research what is safe for your pet.
4. Can I give my pet any safe human foods?
Some human foods, such as cooked lean meat, vegetables, and fruits, are safe for pets. However, you should always check with your veterinarian before introducing any new foods to your pet’s diet.
5. Can my pet develop a tolerance for toxic foods?
No, foods will always be toxic to your pet, regardless of how much they eat or how often they are exposed. It is essential to always keep toxic foods out of reach to prevent accidental poisoning.
Conclusion
As pet owners, we are responsible for keeping our furry friends safe and healthy. Knowing which foods are toxic to your pets can help prevent accidental poisoning. If you suspect your pet has ingested any of these toxic foods, seek veterinary care immediately.
Your cat’s kidneys play a vital role in its health. The kidneys create red blood cells, produce hormones, regulate blood pressure, and filter waste. When these organs fail, your cat may have few treatment options.
So what causes kidney failure in cats? As Tucson’s trusted veterinarian, our team at Santa Cruz Veterinary Clinic explains the types of kidney disease in cats, their causes, and the common symptoms of renal failure. Call us at (520) 889-9643 for an examination and to learn how to care for your feline companion if its kidneys fail.
Types of Kidney Failure
Cats can suffer from two types of kidney failure, also called renal failure: acute and chronic:
Acute kidney failure stems from sudden damage to the organs. Veterinarians can treat acute kidney failure with some success, but this illness ends up being terminal in half of all cases.
Chronic kidney disease causes cats to lose their kidney tissue gradually. Over time, this leads to end-stage renal failure with limited treatment options. Chronic kidney failure can occur depending on your cat’s age, genetics, and underlying medical conditions.
What Causes Kidney Failure in Cats?
There are different causes of kidney disease in cats. Sudden trauma to the system can damage kidney functions and lead to acute kidney failure. Common causes of acute kidney failure in cats include ingesting poison or contracting bacterial infections that spread throughout a cat’s system.
Chronic kidney disease can stem from cancer, urinary tract blockages, congestive heart failure, tick-borne illnesses, and parasitic infections, among other medical conditions. Your cat’s kidneys deteriorate with age, so senior cats are at a higher risk for chronic kidney disease. Acute renal failure can progress into chronic kidney failure.
Symptoms of Kidney Failure
Kidney failure can present several symptoms in cats. These include:
Dehydration
Decreased appetite
Vomiting
Lethargy
Seizures
Diarrhea
Uncontrollable urination
Ammonia-like odor in the breath
If your cat exhibits any of these symptoms, bring them to a veterinarian for testing. Doctors will perform bloodwork, urine tests, and imaging to diagnose your cat.
How to Treat Kidney Disease in Cats
The treatment options available to cats with renal failure depend on the type of kidney disease and its severity. Acute kidney failure can be reversible if you identify it and treat it early enough. Alterations to your cat’s diet, medications, IV fluids, and surgery are common treatment options.
If your cat suffers from chronic kidney disease, your veterinarian will come up with a kidney disease treatment plan depending on its medical history. Your vet will target the underlying cause of kidney disease, treat symptoms, and try to slow the loss of kidney function. Treatment cannot stop the progression towards end-stage renal failure but instead slow it down so your cat can enjoy more time with you.
Seek Treatment for Cats With Kidney Failure
Now that you understand what causes kidney failure in cats and the symptoms, monitor your pet for any sudden health changes. Whether your feline companion suffers from kidney failure or other common cat illnesses, bring them to Tucson’s most trusted veterinarian. Contact Santa Cruz Veterinary Clinic at (520) 889-9643 to schedule an appointment.
Are you wondering, “why do cats scratch furniture?” We have a few answers that may be able to help. Contact a skilled veterinarian in Tucson, AZ, today to learn more about how you can deter this undesirable feline behavior.
Why Do Cats Scratch Furniture – Natural Behaviors
There are many reasons why your cat might be scratching your furniture. As a caring cat owner, you want to understand these actions to learn how to work with your cat to protect your favorite furnishings. Let’s explore the various feline instincts that motivate this behavior.
Exercise
After every catnap, you probably see your cat release their claws into the nearest surface within reach while they shake off the sleep. Cats often combine scratching and stretching as part of their typical routine. These actions keep their bodies healthy and ready to perform at a moment’s notice.
Excitement and Anxiety
Why do cats scratch furniture? As natural hunters, cats often become physically excited when they see potential prey, including birds, mice, and cat toys. In most cases, your cat can easily expend that energy by stalking or playing with its target.
Sometimes, your cat may see a bird through a window. They may scratch furniture because they’re experiencing excitement, anxiety, or frustration at seeing the out-of-reach bird. In some instances, your cat is simply working out some pent-up energy.
Territorial Marking
Cats have a strong urge to mark the territory they consider their own. The feline paw provides two methods of marking territory: their claws and hidden scent glands within their paws. When they scratch an item, they leave visible marks and a scent that lets other cats know they are intruding.
Claw Health
Unlike human nails, feline claws peel away in layers as the outer layer ages and deteriorates. Scratching is a natural behavior that helps remove old keratin layers and expose the fresher, sharper layer beneath them.
Claw care is vital for cats because the claw is essentially the first knuckle of their hands and feet. Their retractable nails help cats balance and walk normally. Therefore, declawing is a painful and excessively damaging form of amputation.
Provide Appropriate Alternatives for Healthy Scratching Behavior
So, why do cats leave scratch marks on your favorite surfaces? This behavior essentially boils down to instincts that you can’t fully train away. Thankfully, cat owners like you can offer your feline friend alternative options to avoid the destruction of your nice furniture.
You might not be able to stop the scratching behavior entirely. However, you can redirect it to more appropriate objects. Consider purchasing and placing the following items around your home near nap zones, windows, and doors:
Vertical scratching posts
Horizontal scratching pads
Now that you know “why do cats scratch furniture,” you might want to discover more helpful information for your pet. For instance, learn more about treating and preventingtick infestation in dogs. You can also call (520) 889-9643 to make an appointment with Santa Cruz Veterinary Clinic in Tucson, AZ.
Pet lovers would do almost anything to rescue an animal in distress, but not everybody has the experience to care for abandoned animals safely. What would you do if you saw a litter of abandoned kittens on your property?
If you find an animal in distress and need advice, the Santa Cruz Veterinary Clinic is here to help. Dr. Neal is a caring veterinarian in Tucson, AZ and a proud member of the community. She founded a charitable organization that provides spay and neuter services and support for pet owners in need.
Dr. Neal has the following advice for anyone who finds abandoned kittens on their property.
Evaluate the Situation
Assessing the condition of the kittens and the environment is a crucial first step in deciding how best to help them:
Do you see just one or two, or is there an entire litter of kittens?
Do the kittens seem to be in any immediate danger?
Are the kittens ill or injured? Can they move on their own and hide from predators?
If the kittens are safe as they are, your best bet might be to watch the kittens but not intervene directly.
Look for Signs of the Mother
If kittens are too young to hunt for themselves, they might fall prey to hunger and disease without their mother to look after them. If you don’t see any signs of the mother around after several hours, the kittens might need someone to take care of them.
Keep in mind that mother cats who live on their own learn to hide from humans who might want to do them harm. If the kittens do not seem deprived, the mother might have come by to check on them without you noticing.
Prepare to Take Care of the Kittens Yourself
Abandoned kittens will need warmth, water, protection from the elements, and a source of nutrition.
Unweaned kittens require round-the-clock care. You can care for them yourself in a box covered with a blanket. One of the most important things you can do for kittens is to keep their body temperature high.
Local animal shelters do not take kittens, but they often provide resources to pet owners who are fostering kittens. After the kittens are eight weeks old, have them spayed and neutered before bringing them to a shelter.
Finding Foster Parents
If you are new to pet ownership or don’t have much experience caring for kittens, consider asking a friend or family member to take care of them. Local animal aid groups or neighborhood organizations might be able to spread the word about kittens who need a good home.
Get Help Taking Care of Abandoned Kittens from the Santa Cruz Veterinary Clinic
When you commit to taking care of animals, including newborn kittens, you need access to any help you can get.Learn how to spot common cat illnessesand more information about proper pet care by calling Santa Cruz Veterinary Clinic at 520-889-9643.
Common causes of cat diarrhea include intestinal parasites, allergies, ingested spoiled cat food, infections, and life-threatening conditions like cancer and liver disease.
A cat dealing with diarrhea will eject loose or watery stool. The condition may last a few days or weeks, depending on the cause. Provide fresh, clean water to prevent dehydration. You should also ensure the cat doesn’t go more than 12 hours without food.
If diarrhea lasts longer than a day, bring your cat to our office immediately.
Feline Leukemia
This infectious disease causes death in 85% of persistently infected felines within three years of diagnosis. The feline leukemia virus (FLV) causes lymphoma and anemia. It can also predispose your cat to other infections.
Symptoms of FLV infection include:
Fever
Breathing difficulty
Stomatitis
Yellowing in the white part of the eyes
Pale gums
Poor coat condition
Wet loss
Loss of appetite
More than 70% of infected cats resist the infection and make a full recovery. However, it’s best to bring the cat for a professional diagnosis if you notice these symptoms.
Diabetes Mellitus
Lack of insulin or an inadequate response to insulin causes diabetes in cats. The inability to produce or utilize insulin causes elevated blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). Untreated hyperglycemia can cause a myriad of health problems for your cat.
Some signs of diabetes in a cat include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and increased appetite. Diabetes isn’t one of the most common cat illnesses, but you should watch out for it nonetheless.
Respiratory Infections
Your cat’s upper respiratory tract is susceptible to infections caused by different viruses and bacteria.
Some signs of upper respiratory tract infections in cats include discharge from the eyes, sneezing, conjunctivitis, lethargy, mouth ulcers, and breathing difficulties.
Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites can plague your cat. For example, tapeworms in the small intestine can grow up to two feet in length. They break off in segments when expelled.
Common signs of feline intestinal parasite problems include weight loss and vomiting.
You can also do a visual check by looking at the cat’s feces, the bedding, and the anus. Tapeworms will come out of the cat’s anus during rest or naps. If you notice small white worms or seed-like droplets, it’s a sign of an intestinal parasite problem.
Be sure to tackle all flea problems while treating your cat for tapeworm infestation. Cats often get tapeworm infections by swallowing fleas.
Find Out More About Cat Illnesses
Do you need more information on cat illnesses? Get in touch with us to discuss all other possible ailments that may plague your furry companion. Call Santa Cruz Veterinary Clinic today at 520-889-9643 for an appointment in Tucson, AZ.
Most people associate roundworms with dogs, but cats can also get this harmful parasite. Did you know that roundworms are extremely common parasitic worms found inside cats, dogs, and other animals? They can be a significant cause of illness, even death in kittens. Most cats become infected with them at some time in their life, generally as kittens.
Infection can be spread through direct contact or ingestion. Cats can get roundworms from contact with an animal carrying the worm.
This article will discuss everything you need to know about roundworms in cats. Keep reading to know more about clinical signs, treatment options, and prevention methods!
Roundworms in Cats
Roundworms are the most common internal parasites found inside a cat. The two species that infect cats are Toxocara Cati and Toxascara Leonina. Of these, the Toxocara Cati can cause health problems in human beings. In the case of dogs, it is Toxocara Canis that causes a parasitic infection. Toxocara Canis (dogs) and Toxocara Cati (cats) can also infect people.
As the name indicates, they are round, white to light brown, and up to 4 inches long, much like spaghetti noodles. They are intestinal parasites found in all animals. Adult worms live in your pet’s intestines and feed off the nutrient in their diet.
Roundworms can be contracted in many ways, making them easy to spread and hard to control. Cats contract with roundworms often through contact with another animal carrying the worm. The worms are often found in soil. Your cat (or dog) can contract roundworms while playing or eating grass.
How Contagious Are Roundworms?
Yes! Roundworms are contagious. If your cat comes into contact with another animal with roundworms, it can also get the same. They are also present in cats’ feces and can remain infective for months. And when a cat or a dog comes into contact with the feces, they can get infected.
What’s the Prognosis for Cats Diagnosed with Roundworms?
The prognosis for cats with roundworm infection is pretty good. However, it’s essential to treat the roundworm early on before your cat becomes ill or dies.
If your cat has roundworms, take them to see their vet as soon as you can! Cats are very good at hiding illness until they become pretty sick. And by then, it may be too late for treatment to be effective.
Types of Roundworms
There are various types of roundworms that cause infections in cats. Though they look and behave in a similar manner, they have different life cycles.
Toxocara Cati is generally seen in kittens. It is transmitted from an infected mother to the baby via mother’s milk. However, the roundworm can also be a result of ingesting eggs. Generally, animals such as rodents, beetles, or earthworms act as carriers of the parasitic worm. The eggs then hatch into roundworm larvae in the digestive system of the cat.
Toxascara Leonina is quite less common and is seen in older cats and dogs. It has a pretty straightforward life cycle than the Toxocara Cati. The eggs of this type are found in the cat (or dog)feces. And when ingested, they hatch into adult roundworms in the digestive system.
Toxocara Canis is the most common type of roundworm seen in dogs. They can grow up to 7 inches long and can be transmitted to humans too. When the infective eggs are ingested, the resulting larvae can invade the gut wall and migrate. The migrating larvae can invade the body tissues where it encysts if the dog is older than five weeks of age.
How Do Cats Get Roundworms?
The most common way cats contract roundworms is by ingesting the eggs. This can happen when they play with contaminated soil and grass, or if they come into contact with rodents carrying the roundworm larvae.
A milk-borne infection is the primary mode of roundworm transmission in kittens. Immature worms called larvae are present in the mammary glands of an infected mother. Later on, it passes on to the kittens via her milk.
Both cats and kittens can get roundworms through an accidental host. An accidental host can be any animal where the roundworm eggs can be found. In most cases, the host stays unaffected. Instead, the eggs are transported to the cat through the feces. It can happen when your pet eats the tissue of an affected animal, thereby completing the life cycle.
When the cat (or dog) eats the host, the eggs hatch in the gastrointestinal tract. And the larvae migrate to various organs such as the liver and lungs through the tissue. They then return to the intestines to lay eggs that pass out through the cat’s (or dog’s) stool.
There is no direct contact between cats and roundworms. However, the infection can be contracted by ingesting feces, contaminated soil, or another animal.
Clinical Signs of Roundworm Infection in Cats
Adult roundworms live in the affected cat’s intestines. They show clinical signs of roundworm in various ways. Some may not show any sign at all and can be asymptomatic carriers for a long time. They pass out the eggs through their stool every once in a while.
But, others who have heavy infections may become ill and show the following symptoms:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Loss of Appetite
Inability to Gain Weight / Weight Loss
Decreased Energy
Lethargy
Dehydration
Dull Hair Coat
Potbellied Appearance
Anemia
Adult Worms in Stool or Vomit
The most common sign is the flat segments with tapering ends and grain-like appearance in the stool of infected pets. These are the larvae of parasitic roundworms, which are passed out along with the feces.
Some cats may also show signs of coughing due to pneumonia caused by the larvae. These larvae push into the respiratory system, causing breathing difficulty.
Treatment for Roundworm Infections
Roundworms are pretty easy to treat. Start by giving your cat a deworming medication regularly every month or two.
The medications work only on adult roundworms and not on larvae or eggs. Hence they need to be repeated every 2-3 weeks for it to be effective. The treatment goes on until to treat the residual roundworms as they mature. The number of treatments depends on the situation and the age of the cat.
The companion animal parasite council recommends deworming a kitten every two weeks of age until four months. Pregnant dogs should also be dewormed in late pregnancy or after six weeks of pregnancy. This will help reduce the chances of it passing to the puppies. On the other hand, Puppies should be dewormed starting at two weeks of age and repeated as long as the pet needs.
You can give this as part of routine care, even if you do not see signs anymore – it will keep them away for sure! Roundworms can cause serious health problems in cats – even death! Therefore, it is vital to get your cat treated for roundworms as soon as possible.
Roundworm Prevention for Dogs and Cats
Treatment and prevention is by far the best way to control roundworms.
One way to prevent roundworms is to give your pet medication every month for two weeks. They need the medication until they are four months old. This medicine will protect your kitten from roundworms and other worms such as hookworms and tapeworms.
Here are a few steps you should follow to prevent roundworm infections:
First, keep your cat indoors, as it will limit exposure to a variety of animals.
Keep cats and dogs away from areas with a high rodent population.
Maintain a clean yard free of cat feces. The presence of feces can attract rodents carrying roundworm eggs onto your property.
Clean up your dog’s feces immediately. Use gloves to avoid contact with fecal matter.
Do not feed your cat raw meat as this may increase the risk of roundworms.
Once you have a kitten, make sure to keep it indoors until it is at least four months old.
Take your cat to the vet for regular checkups.
Wash hands after handling pets that might carry roundworm eggs on their fur (kittens).
Ensure your cat’s vaccinations are up to date.
Maintain your cat’s living area clean and free from feces.
Keep the cat’s litter box away from children and other pets.
How Long Does It Take to Kill Roundworms in Cats?
The medications take as long as three days to destroy the roundworms in the body. However, the medicine works on adult roundworms and not the larvae. Therefore, you may have to repeat the treatment until the eggs are hatched, and the larvae are killed.
Is It Normal for Roundworms to Come Out After Deworming?
Yes! It is pretty common to see live and dead roundworms in the stool of your cat (or dog) after deworming. While it is unpleasant, it means that your pets no longer carry roundworms.
The roundworms in the stool will look like small and long pieces of spaghetti (or rice). If you see them, then it means that your pet still has roundworms.
You need to deworm again after a week if this happens even though there is no sign of roundworms! And make sure to give regular deworming treatment every month.
What if My Cat Vomits Worms?
If you see roundworms in the vomit, this is a sign that they have a severe infection. You will need to get them checked by their vet immediately and dewormed!
It also means that other organs like the liver or lungs are also infected (or damaged). In addition, the larvae often result in vomiting up of the roundworms.
When this happens, consult veterinary professionals as they may suggest tests and treatment. They will also be able to recommend an effective deworming medication for use at home!
Can I Deworm My Cat Myself?
You cannot deworm your cat by yourself since you may not know which medicines to use. Also, if it is a kitten, you need an adult who can hold the animal during treatment!
You should consult with a vet or take them along when giving their deworming medication. If you want to deworm your cat at home, make sure that the treatment is safe for kittens (if this applies) and gentle on their stomachs.
Conclusion
Roundworms are nasty parasites that can make your cat feel pretty bad. If you notice your kitten has been dragging its butt or looking like it’s got the flu, roundworms could be to blame.
You need to get treatment before it gets worse and causes serious problems! Cats contract roundworms often through contact with another animal carrying the worm.
The prognosis for cats with roundworm infection is pretty good (most will recover without any complications). However, you need to treat the infection early on before your cat becomes ill or dies. The most common way cats contract roundworms are by ingesting the eggs when they come into contact with rodents.
With such an easy way for cats to contract these worms, we need all pet owners to be vigilant about prevention measures. Keep your pets indoors and away from areas that rodents might congregate.
In Tucson, Santa Cruz Pet Clinic is a world-renowned and trusted veterinarian that you will want for keeping up with your pet’s vaccinations at the proper time, deworming, and other services to ensure its health. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s vaccinations and check-ups.
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