Posts Tagged: cat

Adoptng a new pet is an exciting time! Whether you get a young puppy or kitten, or an older dog or cat, there are a variety of things to consider before you bring your new furry family member home. Here is a list of some important considerations before your first day home with a new pet

Veterinary Costs

To keep a new pet healthy, you should take them to the veterinarian at least once a year. During this visit, they will get necessary vaccinations against illness, and make sure there are no signs of health issues. You will need to set up an appointment for your pet to discuss being spayed/neutered if it hasn’t been done already. Fun fact: Getting your pet “Fixed” can have several health benefits! In addition to preventing unexpected puppies or kittens, you also can decrease the chance of your pet developing illnesses, including certain cancers!

Pet Insurance

Some veterinary costs are unexpected. Your pet may get hurt accidentally, hit by a car, or some other possible illness or injury that needs costly veterinary care to treat. To offset these greater costs, you can invest in pet insurance. Pet insurance works as a reimbursement program, and typically you can choose what you want to pay for monthly or annually, and how much coverage your pet gets. It’s good to shop around for the best options to fit your needs, and to get pet insurance early in your pets life.

The Commitment

Thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, nutrition, and the quality of care of our pets, they are living longer than ever, depending on size, dogs can live anywhere from 7 years to 16 years, with cats living from 12 to 18 years, and many may even live into their 20’s.

Pet Care

The biggest consideration before adopting a new pet, is the care that goes into it. Who will be feeding the pet? Who will be helping it get exercise through walks or play time? Will the pet need grooming? All of these factors add up in both time and money, and should be discussed thoroughly with your family before adopting a new cat or dog.

Lifestyle

You will need to think about your lifestyle before adopting a new pet. Are you a very active, outdoorsy person? Or do you prefer to be a homebody and read a good book? Different pets have different needs, and could either fit well or clash greatly with your lifestyle. An active person should consider an active breed of dog that enjoys exercise and time outdoors. Someone who is more of a homebody, should consider a cat, or a dog breed with lower energy levels.

Bringing a new pet home is a life changing thing, but it can be life changing in a good way. Make sure your ready for a new ball of fur and sunshine in your life! You can find additional information on preparing for a new pet here. For information on introducing a new puppy, you can check out our blog!

Disclaimer: This written content is meant to be educational and is not medical advice. Always consult a veterinarian about medical advice for your pet.

By Katie Meneses, HR Manager

Thanksgiving is a mark that the year is almost over, when you get together to have food with your family, enjoy the big game, and relax over a long weekend. Our pets can enjoy the holidays too, especially the foods and family. But, there are risks they face that don’t affect us, especially when it comes to food. Here are risks to your pets health, as well as tips to keep things safe for your pet.

Dinner and Dessert Dangers for your Pet

There are a lot of delicious foods at every holiday get together. From the Turkey, to the pies, everyone gets excited for dinner. However. our pet can be harmed by eating the same foods we enjoy, as they pose a danger for your pet.

• Fatty foods like turkey can lead to a life-threatening condition known as pancreatitis. The bones, although tasty, are dangerous too. They can cause GI obstruction, oral trauma from sharp shards, or even fracture teeth as the pet chews on them
• Common cooking ingredients during the holidays are also dangerous to your pet. Dangerous foods include: onions, garlic, raisins, and grapes.
• Yeast Dough is common in many households that bake bread during the holidays. If ingested, it can lead to painful gas and dangerous bloating in pets.
• Chocolate is dangerous for your pet, and is often found in desserts during the holidays.
• Artificial Sweeteners, like Xylitol used in sugar-free baking, are dangerous too. It can be deadly if consumed by cats and dogs.

Safe Foods for Your Pet

While there are dangerous foods during Thanksgiving, there are also some great pet-friendly treats you can give your pets. There are many healthy, safe foods for your pet, including raw fruits and vegetables you can share with your furry friend.

Safe options include:

• Baby carrots
• Green beans
• Apples
• Chunks of sweet potato
• Plain pumpkin puree (unsweetened, and not spiced)

Clean Up to Keep it Safe for Your Pet

Make sure to keep the trash far away. The turkey carcass is dangerous for pets. If it is left sitting out on a counter, table, or even in the trash, is a deadly temptation. Make sure to dispose of it, including bags, strings, bones, and packaging, in a secure trash bag, in an outdoor container. Alternatively, make sure it is tucked safely behind a closed and locked door.

Know the Signs

It is important to know the signs that your pet has ingested something dangerous.

 Signs include:

• Abdominal Pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Hypersalivation
• Depression
• Muscle twitching or seizures
• Changes in behavior that occur suddenly, such as increased agitation or restlessness

If you notice any of these symptoms, move quickly to help save your pets life. Call an emergency veterinary clinic immediately. You may also choose to call the Pet Poison Hotline (855-764-7661) for assistance.

Prepare for Visitors

The holidays bring family and friends together. If you plan to have a full house Thanksgiving weekend, you will need to prepare to keep your cats and dogs from finding their way through the front door. Gates are a great way to keep your front door separate from your pets as people come and go. Alternatively, you can keep them on a leash, or in another room while the door is open, to prevent daring escapes.

Another precaution is to ensure your pets identity tags and microchip are up-to-date. If they do get out of your home, they are more likely to be returned to you. If your pet isn’t microchipped yet, contact your veterinarian about the simple procedure to get it done.

For more information on food safety for your pet, check out the Pet Poison Hotline for ways to keep your pet safe from toxins. If you plan to go hunting this season, you should also check out tips for keeping your pets safe, and how to Get Your Dog Ready for Hunting Season.

Disclaimer:  This written content is meant to be educational and is not medical advice.  Always consult a veterinarian about medical advice for your pet.