Irritable Bowel Syndrome is not only common among humans but also among animals particularly cats. Basically, the IBS that is experienced by people is the same type that cats also feel.
The Irritable Bowel Syndrome among cats is the same gastrointestinal disorder that is also felt by human. The large and/or small intestines are also affected. IBS in cats usually affects the contractions of the digestive tract resulting to irregular bowel movement. Aside from that, IBS also interferes with the normal distribution of food and waste material inside the cat's body resulting to the accumulation of toxins and mucus in the cat's intestines.
These accumulated toxins often obstruct the normal function of the digestive tract. In the process gas and stool are trapped causing bloating, constipation and distention. It is also surprising to note that the same IBS factors in human have been identified to cause the same effects among cats. Factors causing IBS such as stress, overuse of antibiotics, poor eating habits, bacterial, and viral infection, parasites and food allergies were found to affect cats as well.
Likewise, a blockage is also very common among cats since they love to chew as well as swallow objects. This too can trigger IBS symptoms.
Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Cats
It would be surprising to note that cats and humans exhibit the same Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms. And here are some of them:
- Constipation among cats is just like in humans. It is also exhibited by hard, small, pebble-like stools, which make bowel movement very difficult.
- Diarrhea is a more frequent bowel movement wherein the stool is often soft and watery. Cats with IBS usually experience successive loose bowel movement alternating with constipation.
- Abdominal pain is also common among cats with IBS. The pain can range from mild to severe.
- The presence of mucus in the stool is also a common sign of IBS.
- Another symptom of IBS that may be observed in cats is vomiting and nausea.
- Gas pain or flatulence is also an indication of IBS in cats
- Bloating
- Intolerance to certain types of foods
- Anorexia which most of you may think is only common to us human but surprisingly is also exhibited by our feline friends.
Treating Your Cat's Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Since Irritable Bowel Syndrome involves many factors, it is very important that you have your cats examined by a veterinarian. This way you will know what's triggering IBS symptoms in your pet cats. In case you prefer to apply natural methods in controlling your pet's IBS symptoms still it is better to consult first a veterinarian before applying any type of IBS treatment to your cat to avoid further complications.
A change in your cat's diet is also a good way to control Irritable Bowel syndrome. However make sure that you consult a veterinarian or a nutritionist to provide your cat with a personalized diet and program.
Feeding your cat with the right type of food is still the best way to control your cat's Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Cats like humans prefer different types of foods. There are some cats that like eating raw food while there are some that prefers home cooking or canned food.
It is very important that you try to experiment with foods that work for your cat. If you can keep a food journal in which you can jot down foods that your cat needs to avoid then so much the better. This will guide you on the proper food to give your cat and in turn keeps IBS symptoms in control.
2008年8月24日星期日
2008年8月19日星期二
Tips In Purchasing Dog Ramps
Dog ramps are definitely useful implements that you could buy for your pet's use. Reality wise, you should buy one for your pet more so if its is having a hard time climbing the stairs of your house, jumping into your USV, or getting onto your couch. Such things happen when your pooch is already old, has an injury, is physically-challenged, is too big or heavy to climb on any surface, or too small to reach a high place.
Dog ramps don't just help your dog pass from one point to another -- either climbing up or going down -- they also prevent injuries resulting from constant or habitual running or jumping up and down on any high surface. This is because dog ramps require your dog to exert less energy and effort in climbing or walking toward their point of direction. The said concept is governed by the law of physics. Take a quick read of the following rundown to help you understand the importance of dog ramps:
1. Durability and quality of materials
The rule is that the materials should possess the following: durability, quality, sturdiness, and excellent support.
2. The dog ramp should be washable.
You should have a breeze cleaning and washing the ramp, so you'll have more time to spend with your dear pet. Besides, the easy-clean feature of the ramp will aid you in keeping it safe from any harmful bacteria from the dirt and other refuse left on its surface whenever your dog walk on it.
3. Ease of use and assembly
Never buy a ramp that will require you to do magic just to get it ready for use. You would, of course, never want to be bothered by something that will make you go nuts and drain your energy without an immediate benefit.
4. In all ways, the dog ramp should prove to be safe and stable.
It should have excellent traction so as to avoid slips or accidents.
5. It should provide for easy storage and carrying.
The issue here is whether the ramp can be taken anywhere possible or not. Hence, the ramp should allow you to carry it to different places. Never allow yourself to be burdened by a ramp that is too big and too difficult to store. In such case, a telescopic ramp is the best option.
6. The dog ramp must be lightweight.
You are buying a dog ramp so as not to be burdened anymore by backaches as a result of having to move your pooch into different places. Hence, go for the logical lightweight ones.
Ideally, there's a wide array of dog ramps to choose from. You can choose from either of the following: plastic, aluminum, wood, PVC-framed, or combination types. All you have to consider, besides the above-mentioned points, is the place wherein the ramp will be mostly used.
Dog ramps don't just help your dog pass from one point to another -- either climbing up or going down -- they also prevent injuries resulting from constant or habitual running or jumping up and down on any high surface. This is because dog ramps require your dog to exert less energy and effort in climbing or walking toward their point of direction. The said concept is governed by the law of physics. Take a quick read of the following rundown to help you understand the importance of dog ramps:
1. Durability and quality of materials
The rule is that the materials should possess the following: durability, quality, sturdiness, and excellent support.
2. The dog ramp should be washable.
You should have a breeze cleaning and washing the ramp, so you'll have more time to spend with your dear pet. Besides, the easy-clean feature of the ramp will aid you in keeping it safe from any harmful bacteria from the dirt and other refuse left on its surface whenever your dog walk on it.
3. Ease of use and assembly
Never buy a ramp that will require you to do magic just to get it ready for use. You would, of course, never want to be bothered by something that will make you go nuts and drain your energy without an immediate benefit.
4. In all ways, the dog ramp should prove to be safe and stable.
It should have excellent traction so as to avoid slips or accidents.
5. It should provide for easy storage and carrying.
The issue here is whether the ramp can be taken anywhere possible or not. Hence, the ramp should allow you to carry it to different places. Never allow yourself to be burdened by a ramp that is too big and too difficult to store. In such case, a telescopic ramp is the best option.
6. The dog ramp must be lightweight.
You are buying a dog ramp so as not to be burdened anymore by backaches as a result of having to move your pooch into different places. Hence, go for the logical lightweight ones.
Ideally, there's a wide array of dog ramps to choose from. You can choose from either of the following: plastic, aluminum, wood, PVC-framed, or combination types. All you have to consider, besides the above-mentioned points, is the place wherein the ramp will be mostly used.
2008年8月12日星期二
Dog Training – Dealing With Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety, also known in the dog training world as owner absent misbehavior, is one of the most frequently encountered problems in the world of dog training. Separation anxiety can manifest itself in many different ways, including chewing, destroying the owner’s property, excessive barking, self destructive behavior and inappropriate urination and defecation.
Dogs suffering from separation anxiety often whine, bark, cry, howl, dig, chew and scratch at the door the entire time their family members are away. Well meaning owners often unwittingly encourage this misbehavior by rushing home to reassure the dog, but it is important for the well being of both dog and owner that the dog learn to deal with extended periods of separation.
How the owner leaves the house can often contribute to separation anxiety issues. A long and drawn out period of farewell can make matters worse by making the dog feel even more isolated when the owner finally leaves. These long types of farewells can get the dog excited, and then leave him with lots of excess energy and no way to work it off. These excited, isolated dogs often work off their excess energy in the most destructive of ways, such as chewing up a favorite rug or piece of furniture.
Excess energy is often mistaken for separation anxiety, since results are often the same. If you think that excess amounts of energy may be the problem, try giving your dog more exercise to see if that eliminates the problem.
If separation anxiety is truly the problem, it is important to address the root causes of that anxiety. In order to prevent separation anxiety from occurring, it is important for the dog to feel happy, safe, secure and comfortable while the owner is away for the day. It is important, for instance, to give the dog plenty of things to keep it busy while you are away. This means providing it with lots of toys, such as balls or chew toys. A pet companion is often effective at relieving separation anxiety as well. Giving the dog a playmate, such as another dog or a cat, is a great way for busy pet parents and pets alike to cope with the stress of being left alone.
Setting aside scheduled play times, during which the pet is given your undivided attention, is another great way to alleviate boredom and separation anxiety. Playing with the dog, and providing it with sufficient attention and exercise, is a proven way to avoid a stressed and anxious dog. A happy dog that has been well exercised and well conditioned will generally sleep the day away happily and patiently wait for the return of its owner.
It is important to schedule one of these daily play sessions before you leave the house each day. It is important to give the dog a few minutes to settle down after playtime before you leave.
For dogs that are already experiencing separation anxiety and associated misbehaviors, it is important to get him accustomed to your leaving gradually. Be sure to practice leaving and returning at irregular intervals, several times during the day. Doing so will get your dog accustomed to your deparartures and help him realize that you are not leaving him forever. Dogs that have been previously lost, or those that have been surrendered to shelters and readopted, often have the worst problems with separation anxiety. Part of treating this problem is teaching the dog that your leaving is not permanent.
Dogs suffering from separation anxiety often whine, bark, cry, howl, dig, chew and scratch at the door the entire time their family members are away. Well meaning owners often unwittingly encourage this misbehavior by rushing home to reassure the dog, but it is important for the well being of both dog and owner that the dog learn to deal with extended periods of separation.
How the owner leaves the house can often contribute to separation anxiety issues. A long and drawn out period of farewell can make matters worse by making the dog feel even more isolated when the owner finally leaves. These long types of farewells can get the dog excited, and then leave him with lots of excess energy and no way to work it off. These excited, isolated dogs often work off their excess energy in the most destructive of ways, such as chewing up a favorite rug or piece of furniture.
Excess energy is often mistaken for separation anxiety, since results are often the same. If you think that excess amounts of energy may be the problem, try giving your dog more exercise to see if that eliminates the problem.
If separation anxiety is truly the problem, it is important to address the root causes of that anxiety. In order to prevent separation anxiety from occurring, it is important for the dog to feel happy, safe, secure and comfortable while the owner is away for the day. It is important, for instance, to give the dog plenty of things to keep it busy while you are away. This means providing it with lots of toys, such as balls or chew toys. A pet companion is often effective at relieving separation anxiety as well. Giving the dog a playmate, such as another dog or a cat, is a great way for busy pet parents and pets alike to cope with the stress of being left alone.
Setting aside scheduled play times, during which the pet is given your undivided attention, is another great way to alleviate boredom and separation anxiety. Playing with the dog, and providing it with sufficient attention and exercise, is a proven way to avoid a stressed and anxious dog. A happy dog that has been well exercised and well conditioned will generally sleep the day away happily and patiently wait for the return of its owner.
It is important to schedule one of these daily play sessions before you leave the house each day. It is important to give the dog a few minutes to settle down after playtime before you leave.
For dogs that are already experiencing separation anxiety and associated misbehaviors, it is important to get him accustomed to your leaving gradually. Be sure to practice leaving and returning at irregular intervals, several times during the day. Doing so will get your dog accustomed to your deparartures and help him realize that you are not leaving him forever. Dogs that have been previously lost, or those that have been surrendered to shelters and readopted, often have the worst problems with separation anxiety. Part of treating this problem is teaching the dog that your leaving is not permanent.
2008年8月11日星期一
The Pomeranian Species
The Pomeranian is a huge dog packed into a little tiny package of fluff that tend to be very yappy and bossy. Some have wondered how such a big dog can walk around in a little dog's body but the Pomeranian sure does it well. It is a small watchdog in the way that they are very alert and bark at strangers excessively. It is said that the Pomeranian is temperamental and needs to be put in his place by way of a firm hand.
If you let the little thing do as it wishes, it won't ever listen. This is in part due to the fact that they are incredibly intelligent and loves to learn new things. The Pomeranian gets along well with other household pets and animals but can sometimes be aggressive to any animal, large or small. The Pomeranian dogs have a great disposition and are very good at learning new tricks so get your new dog some treats and you both will be pleasantly pleased.
Features of The Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is as noted earlier quite small and is known to be in the group of 'toy' dogs because of it's size. You may have seen the Pomeranian dogs at a dog show or at the park that have the mask in the face and look slightly like a fox or those that look like a baby doll face. They differ in facial features just like humans do but all of them have one distinctive feature in common and that is of the triangle shaped ears that they adorn. The Pomeranian ears are pointy and stand straight up.
However, the feature that best sets these dogs apart from other small dogs is the tail that they carry around, feathered and pointed towards the back of the dogs head and they usually have a matching collar and fluff on the chest. They are very fashionable dogs and have a smart smile that shows the intelligence in the Pomeranian's expression.
The Pomeranian Roots
If you can believe this, the Pomeranian were once used and bred mainly for sheep herding and were brought to Europe from the far northern country of Prussia for just this reason, for selling to the sheep farmers. The Pomeranian descended from the Spitz breeds that and weighed anywhere up to thirty pounds.
An entertaining endnote on the Pomeranian, many old celebrities have owned them like Mozart and Marie Antoinette and even Emile Zola was known to own the Pomeranian.
If you let the little thing do as it wishes, it won't ever listen. This is in part due to the fact that they are incredibly intelligent and loves to learn new things. The Pomeranian gets along well with other household pets and animals but can sometimes be aggressive to any animal, large or small. The Pomeranian dogs have a great disposition and are very good at learning new tricks so get your new dog some treats and you both will be pleasantly pleased.
Features of The Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is as noted earlier quite small and is known to be in the group of 'toy' dogs because of it's size. You may have seen the Pomeranian dogs at a dog show or at the park that have the mask in the face and look slightly like a fox or those that look like a baby doll face. They differ in facial features just like humans do but all of them have one distinctive feature in common and that is of the triangle shaped ears that they adorn. The Pomeranian ears are pointy and stand straight up.
However, the feature that best sets these dogs apart from other small dogs is the tail that they carry around, feathered and pointed towards the back of the dogs head and they usually have a matching collar and fluff on the chest. They are very fashionable dogs and have a smart smile that shows the intelligence in the Pomeranian's expression.
The Pomeranian Roots
If you can believe this, the Pomeranian were once used and bred mainly for sheep herding and were brought to Europe from the far northern country of Prussia for just this reason, for selling to the sheep farmers. The Pomeranian descended from the Spitz breeds that and weighed anywhere up to thirty pounds.
An entertaining endnote on the Pomeranian, many old celebrities have owned them like Mozart and Marie Antoinette and even Emile Zola was known to own the Pomeranian.
2008年8月7日星期四
Pointer Puppy And Dog Information
The Pointer is a dog on the go. She has a lot of energy and needs plenty of exercise. She keeps herself clean and does not require much coat maintenance. She generally gets along well with other dogs and can be socialized early with other pets. She generally likes children, being a playful and happy dog. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Pointer is 24 to 27 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 44 to 66 pounds..
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Pointer is no exception. Be on the look out for Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), epilepsy (common in dogs) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Pointer has a short, smooth, dense coat. She should be brushed regularly and wiped down with a cloth to bring out her natural sheen. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
*Life Span. The Pointer can live between 12 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Pointer comes from Great Britain where they were developed to hunt game. They are not water dogs and they like warm weather better than cold. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1879.
Some Registries:
*American Pointer Club
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 5 to 6 Pointer puppies
Category: Sporting Group, Gundog
Terms To Describe: Power, agility, grace, noble, loyalty, devotion,
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Makes a good watch dog.
Make a medium guard dog.
Keeps itself clean.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Needs a ton of exercise.
Has a strong will, needs early obedience.
*Other Names Known By: English Pointer, Spanish Pointer
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Pointer is 24 to 27 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 44 to 66 pounds..
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Pointer is no exception. Be on the look out for Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), epilepsy (common in dogs) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Pointer has a short, smooth, dense coat. She should be brushed regularly and wiped down with a cloth to bring out her natural sheen. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
*Life Span. The Pointer can live between 12 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Pointer comes from Great Britain where they were developed to hunt game. They are not water dogs and they like warm weather better than cold. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1879.
Some Registries:
*American Pointer Club
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 5 to 6 Pointer puppies
Category: Sporting Group, Gundog
Terms To Describe: Power, agility, grace, noble, loyalty, devotion,
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Makes a good watch dog.
Make a medium guard dog.
Keeps itself clean.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Needs a ton of exercise.
Has a strong will, needs early obedience.
*Other Names Known By: English Pointer, Spanish Pointer
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
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