ITCHY SCRATCHY!

Itchy scratchy dogs and cats abound.  They make themselves bald or raw and they drive you crazy with their licking and slurping.  It’s a common problem but not always a simple one.

The causes of skin disorders are many and varied.  They range from allergy, parasites, bacterial infections and cancers all the way through to hormonal and psychological.

Fleas, of course, are the number one trouble makers.  Fleas wriggle and bite but many animals also have an allergy to them (Flea Allergy Dermatitis) and for these, a single flea bite is enough to send them around the twist.  Dogs will show a bald tail base from all the chewing while cats will get multiple scabs around their face and neck (military dermatitis).  These animals need a good vet-recommended flea product which will be safer and more effective than some cheaper products.  Sometimes an anti-inflammatory is also needed.

Some more sinister diseases including bacterial infections, generalised conditions and cancers can also be the cause.  If you see an unusual lump or lesion that doesn’t heal normally, have it checked out promptly.

Anxiety is also a major cause of hair loss.  It’s not itchy but the animal is not happy.  In cats this shows up as over-grooming where they’ll groom until they’re bald, particularly on the tummy.  The so-called closet groomer won’t even be seen doing it.  Dogs will show stress by continually licking their wrists until they form a big callus which can then become infected.  Stressed critters can be helped by environmental changes, medications and feline hormone sprays.

FELINE OBESITY

Obesity!  Even cats are not exempt this current epidemic.  And it’s no better for our feline friends than it is for us.

Obesity in cats is a known risk factor for diabetes, cystitis, skin problems, exacerbation of arthritis, some liver disorders, impaired immune function, anaesthetic complications and difficulty in breathing.

A substantial risk factor for cats becoming obese is their human friends underestimating their body weight.  If their person has an unrealistic idea of the ideal weight they might not even realise Puss is overweight.

Obesity is far easier to prevent than cure (don’t we know it!) so when Puss has his vet check-ups ask to have his weight assessed too.  If he’s overweight, your vet can put him on a weight reduction programme and, with your help, get him back to his healthy active self.  Your vet will record his weight, then calculate how much weight Puss needs to lose, how fast and how much to feed him to do so safely.  Regular weigh ins will help keep weight reduction on track.

A diet should be balanced and the right amount of calories must deliver the right amount of protein, vitamins and minerals.  Fortunately there are special veterinary weight loss diets available to help both lose and maintain weight.  Your vet can recommend one that will suit.

Exercise will help too.  Play with Puss with a butterfly (a rolled up piece of paper tied to a string), throw her a ball or screwed up piece of paper, shine a torch around the floor, give her a catnip toy (some cats go crazy for these).  Also, for the older arthritic cat, pain relief medication may help immensely.

TOOTHACHE – A REAL MISERY!

Toothache is miserable and so are sore gums. 

Periodontal disease is a painful inflammatory condition of the gums, bone and ligaments that surround the teeth.  When plaque builds up under the gum line, it causes irritation and redness of the gums (gingivitis) and the bacteria attack the tissues that hold the teeth in place.  Those bacteria then have access to the bloodstream and can spread to internal organs, potentially causing further problems.

Periodontal disease is extremely common, especially in cats and small breed dogs, and left untreated it just gets worse.

The signs of periodontal disease include: bad breath, red gums, tartar, pain or bleeding, change in eating habits such as refusal of dry food or looking hungry and then shying away from food, rubbing or pawing at the mouth, dribbling, loose teeth and subdued behaviour.  Remember, cats and dogs are good at hiding pain and the fact that they are eating doesn’t mean they aren’t suffering.

If you think your furry friend may have dental disease, a vet examination is warranted.  If necessary, your vet will de-scale and polish the teeth, usually under general anaesthesia.  Extractions of loose or damaged teeth (such as those with painful neck lesions) may be necessary.

For those dogs that are prone to dental disease there is now a vaccination that protects against the primary causal bacteria.  Cats can also get a specific type of gingivitis, a severe life-long gum condition that can be improved with regular dentals and medication.

To reduce dental problems, make a large portion of the diet a dry food.  Also provide dental treats, such as Greenies, and toys to chew on.  Specific foods designed to minimize tartar, such as Hills T/d, are invaluable.  And if you’re keen, there are toothbrushes and pastes available. (Don’t use your mint toothpaste – they won’t thank you and it’ll get messy!)