Archive for September, 2009

Is It All Right to Put Cats’ Meds in Food or Water?

September 28, 2009 — by Jane Wangersky
Cats, General Animals, Veterinarians
Last time, we looked at the difficult task of giving liquid medicine, in a syringe or eyedropper, to a cat. Some cat owners find this so close to impossible that they prefer to put the meds into food, water, or milk in the hope that their cat will consume the whole mixture without noticing. However, some vets caution against giving cats medicine in food or drink. Dr. Bernadine Cruz, a Laguna Hills vet who hosts PetCareTV, tells us, “I would not recommend putting medication into a bowl of water or into food. Cats are much more fastidious when it...

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How To Make Veterinary Visits Easier

September 24, 2009 — by Anna P.
Cats, Dogs, General Animals, Veterinarians
When owning a pet, you know that making the occasional trip to the veterinary office is inevitable. Taking your cat or dog to the vet is never an easy thing to do. Even if you’re fortunate enough just to bring your pet for a regular check-up, going to the vet can be quite a stressful experience for some animals (particularly cats).  So, just how do you make this visit and subsequent checkups stress free? Here are some ideas to consider. If this is your pet’s first visit, it's important to know that your pet will, no doubt, be a little frightened....

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“Take your medicine like a good kitty”

September 21, 2009 — by Jane Wangersky
Cats, General Animals, Veterinarians
“There is nothing worse than trying to give a liquid medication to a cat that does not want it,” says Dr. Loretta Potts, a veterinary expert on JustAnswer.com with over 25 years’ experience. “All you can see is all four feet and teeth coming at your hands as you try to medicate your furry friend.” But don’t panic when the vet gives your cat a prescription. If you possibly can get the medicine in gel or capsule form to mix with food, go for it. If not, there are two general ways vets and cat owners recommend: Hide the medicine...

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Hiking with Dogs

September 18, 2009 — by Jane Wangersky
Dogs, General Animals
Summer activities may be winding down, but walking your dog knows no season. Hiking – or just long walks in the woods – can go on almost year round, so why not combine the two and hit the trail with your dog? Just do it safely. Daniel Boone National Forest gives these tips and a lot of other good advice for taking your dog to the wilderness: · Make sure he’s physically ready. · Get him vaccinated – ask your vet about a Lyme disease shot in case of contact with ticks. · Bring a leash. Yes, it’s nice to let dogs run free, but...

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Crested Gecko Care

September 16, 2009 — by Jacob P.
Baby Animals, General Animals, Insects, Reptiles, Veterinarians
I have now had Gonzo (my New Caledonian Crested Gecko) for more than a year. I've found caring for him is a little tricky (sometimes!), so I've made a care sheet for new owners of Crested Geckos. Listed below are some of what I consider important elements of care for Crested Geckos:
  1. Housing: Because Crested Geckos are so versatile and hardy, they can be kept in a number of different types of enclosures.  First, a single adult Crestie needs a tank of at least twenty gallons.  It is better if the tank is longer than tall, as Cresties are arboreal.  If you...

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