Fleas need to flee.... let’s see how!

The most common cause of skin disease in cats is generally caused by fleas. Often skin diseases are seasonal and fleas are most active in summer and autumn. Here’s how to take care of fleas in your felines.

Watch out for...

The moment you see your cat scratching and chewing at her coat, immediately check, thoroughly, for fleas or flea dirt. If you see a cat who has sores or damp areas, then eczema is very often the cause of the problem. Go over every inch of the cat from the top coat, side and belly and down and inside the legs and tail. Fleas hide all over the coat and in the cat’s bedding. Many cats are not really troubled by fleas but 60 percent can have major problems that can cause serious health risks to your cat. If you are a pet parent of a dog as well, check him as well as they can jump from dogs on to cats and vice versa. Loss of hair is also a good indicator that there may be a problem with fleas.

Fleas management...

Place some clean newspaper on a table and then pick up your cat and stand her on the paper. Start combing and go over the entire body. You will soon see flea dirt drop on to the paper and probably a few fleas as well. Have ready some good quality flea powder that is listed safe for cats. Pick up small amounts in your fingers and starting at the under tail, gently massaging it into the coat. Gradually work through the whole body of the cat taking special care of the eyes and ears.

When finished, roll up the newspaper and burn it – if you just toss it into the bin, the fleas can escape and continue to cause trouble. Make sure you thoroughly wash your hands.

Gently brush and/or comb all the powder out. This takes time but is extremely important because if the cat licks the powder she will get sick. If you have more than one cat, they must all be treated in the same way to eradicate the fleas totally. If you have treated your cat for tapeworm, you should also use the flea powder as fleas can carry tapeworm. A rinse through with nice warm water will leave your cat feeling well loved and much happier. Dry her off well and she will, indeed, be a happy cat. You need to do this every 3-4 months.

Preventive tip...

Pet parents who brush and comb their cats at least three times a week are usually able to avoid flea problems because they pay close attention to their cat’s coat.

(Joan E Henderson is based in Australia and she has judged furry felines in many other countries including USA, Bermuda, Malaysia, South Africa, Hong Kong, Philippines and New Zealand).

Precious purring hearts!

In the last issue, we learnt about the various heart diseases in cats. Here are few FAQs about the same.

Mark D Kittleson, DVM, PhD, one of the foremost researchers on Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), was asked a series of questions trying to sort out this disease and what it means for breeders. Excerpts:

Q: At what age in males and females can this disease 'actually' be diagnosed?

Mark: In Maine Coons, most males have evidence of the disease by two years of age and females by three years of age but we have seen it developed as late as seven years of age in females and have seen it developed as young as six months of age in kittens from mating two affected cats.

Q: Is there scientific proof that this genetic disease is 100 percent NOT diet related?

Mark: In Maine Coons, American Shorthairs and humans, HCM is inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. There has been no evidence of a nutritional cause in any species.

Q: Can two parents 'test' negative throughout their lives and still produce some kittens who may have HCM?

Mark: Yes. This means that either one of the parents had whatever mutation but did not manifest the disease or the affected offspring had a mutation developed spontaneously in-utero.

Q: Does the word 'genetic' mean the kittens are born with it or just predisposed? As soon as the cat reaches adulthood, should it show at that time, since the organs are fully mature?

Mark: Genetic means there is an abnormality in the genome. This may be the form of one base pair mutation or may take the form of multiple abnormalities. The word for a disease that is present at birth is 'congenital'. For HCM, for example, in Maine Coons the disease is not present at birth but develops over time and so it is not a congenital disease in the classic sense.

Q. If a cat tests 'negative' for a number of years, and then reaches say 10-12 years of age, is there a 100 percent chance that she will never have HCM?

Mark: I suspect that there are a fair number of cats who have mild to moderate HCM all their life and then develop something like hyperthyroidism or high blood pressure when they are older and this exacerbates the HCM to become severe. So, it's theoretically possible to have a cat with mild disease (which would be difficult to detect on an echocardiogram) that developed hyperthyroidism when she was 15 years of age and all of a sudden showed up with what appears to be severe HCM.

Q. Is this an all breed cat condition in general or is it more towards specific breeds of cats?

Mark: It's a strange phenomenon. HCM is very common in cats, whether they are mixed breed or purebred, yet it's a rare condition in dogs. And it seems as things progress, more and more purebreds are recognised as having the disease. However, the disease is still most commonly seen in mixed breed cats. If the disease is inherited as an autosomal dominant trait in all cats it would be passed on to 50 percent of all offspring, whether they were purebred or mixed so she would be easy to disseminate a mutation throughout a large population.

Q. Is this condition a game of Russian Roulette?

Mark: You're correct, echocardiographic screening is a bit of a game of Russian Roulette. If not all cats with a mutation manifest the disease, then it isn't seen in all cats on an echocardiogram that can pass on the disease. That's why I always tell people that echocardiographic screening is not going to rid a breed of the disease.

Breeding protocols

HCM can be treated if diagnosed early. There are various medications available to extend the life of our cats. It would be a much better solution to not breed cats who are HCM positive to begin with. To avoid HCM, breeders should note the following:

• A breeding male should be tested every six months if at all possible. Testing should begin when the male is about one year of age and before he is used in a breeding programme.


• A breeding female should be tested prior to each breeding or at least annually. As with a male, the first testing should be done when the cat is about one year old.


• All breeding cats should be tested as long as they are in a breeding programme.


• An affected cat should immediately be removed from a breeding programme, altered (unless clinically contraindicated), and treatment started as ordered by the breeder's veterinary specialist.


• Should HCM be diagnosed in a cat, the breeder of that cat should inform *all* pet parents of near relatives of that cat, including offspring of the affected cat, whether they were sold for pet or breeding purposes.


• Breeders are encouraged to maintain contact at least annually with the pet parents of all cats produced by their cattery. Such continued contact should include a report of any health changes in these cats. This information will assist the breeder when making decisions regarding his/her breeding programme.


• Breeders should make every effort to work with breeding cats who are as free as possible of this disease. Furthermore, it encourages breeders of cats to stress the importance of health for their breeding cats as well as type when breeding animals are selected and mating decisions are made.


• It is recommended that breeders include a warranty statement in their sales contract so both parties are informed of what will be expected should the cat or kitten develop HCM.

(Cánie V Brooks is a TICA All Breed Judge. Breeding and showing Bengals for 14 years, she is currently on the TICA Bengal Breed Committee, TICA Mentoring Committee, Past Officer for seven years in The International Bengal Cat Society.)

Preventing dehydration…

Even cats can be dehydrated, especially in the summer season. Here's how to prevent dehydration in kitties.

Some facts…

A healthy cat should be sufficiently hydrated. Water replaces fluid lost through urine, faeces and respiration and is essential to maintain appropriate health. It is interesting to know that 80 percent of a cat's body weight is made up of water. The amount of water your cat should drink depends on factors like the size of your cat, health condition, weather, food, etc.

Dehydration & its causes...

Dehydration occurs when the fluid levels are less than normal. During summer, your cat will drink more water to replace fluids lost due to heat. Senior cats, nursing cats, and cats suffering from kidney problem, cancer, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism are especially at risk for dehydration. Cats having fever, vomiting or diarrhoea are also prone to dehydration.

Symptoms…

You can know if your cat is dehydrated by lifting the skin on the back of your cat's neck or between the shoulder blades. For a well- hydrated cat, the skin should be extremely elastic and should immediately bounce back. If the cat is dehydrated, the skin will take a longer time to return to normal. If you suspect that your cat is dehydrated, immediately take her to your veterinarian.

Tips to follow…

• Always keep a fresh bowl of water everyday.


• Clean the water bowl daily to prevent from bacteria forming.


• Keep several water bowls around the house so that your cat can have easy access.


• Cats being fed dry food should drink adequate amounts of water.


• If you notice your cat is drinking water more or less than normal, take her to the veterinarian immediately.


• Keep your kitty indoors during hot days.


• If you are feeding outdoor cats, provide them some shade.

(Sudhersena is volunteer at the Blue Cross since 1998 and an avid animal lover, owns nine cats and three dogs. She is associated with a number of animal welfare campaigns and programmes.)

E-mail your cat's adorable pictures and stories at: info@dogsandpups.net or post it to: Dogs & Pups, 406, Sant Nagar, East of Kailash, New Delhi-110065.

Don’t break my heart!

Yes, cats can also suffer from heart disease. Some can be caused by nutrition, but most have a genetic basis. Here’s more on heart disease in cats.

Heart diseases…

The most common heart diseases are known as Cardiomyopathy. There are often no signs that there is anything wrong with the cat. There are three basic forms of Cardiomyopathies: Dilated, Restrictive and Hypertrophic.

Dialated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a thinning and weakening of the heart muscle. There is also enlargement of the heart. Often this condition can be caused by an improper diet and can be reversed if proper nutrition is given to the cat. Lack of the amino acid taurine is often the cause.

Restrictive Cardiomyopathy (RCM) is when there is scarring on the heart muscle and it can no longer pump blood efficiently due to the heart chamber’s loss of elasticity.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is when the heart walls thicken in the left ventricle and impede proper pumping function.

Both HCM and RCM have a genetic basis. Cats with these conditions should not be bred as this condition is a dominant trait. HCM is the most common form of heart disease in all cats. The prognosis for such a disease is always guarded. Blood clots may be thrown which cause paralysis of the limbs or strokes. Death usually occurs from Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), with fluid buildup in the lungs and body tissues or can be due to a blood clot causing massive stroke or heart attack.

How is heart disease diagnosed?

Heart screening should be done by a Board Certified Veterinary Cardiologist or other equally qualified, trained and experienced veterinary professional. Early stages of HCM are usually not detectable via ECG or auscultation. At minimum, HCM screening should include a thorough physical examination and a two-dimensional cardiac ultrasound (echocardiogram). Additional tests such as Colour Flow Doppler Ultrasonography may be done at the discretion of the breeder and/or veterinary professional.

DNA tests are available for some breeds such as Maine Coon and Ragdolls, but these do not cover all possible causes of HCM in the cats. These same tests are not valid in other breeds. So, even though there are some tools available using DNA for testing, the echocardiograms still need to be performed.

Breeding protocols

HCM can be treated if diagnosed early. There are various medications available to extend the life of our cats. It would be a much better solution to not breed cats who are HCM positive to begin with. Given that this disease may not appear until later in a cat’s breeding career, it is imperative to test older cats who have been used in a breeding programme to see if it is being bred into the lines, as well as testing the cats currently being used.

(To be continued in the next issue)

(Cánie V Brooks is a TICA All Breed Judge. Breeding and showing Bengals for 14 years, she is currently on the TICA Bengal Breed Committee, TICA Mentoring Committee, past officer for seven years in The International Bengal Cat Society.)

The purrfect play session…

All work and no play make Jack a dull boy… same is with our kitties who need play not just for fun, but for bonding with their littermates and pet parents.

Importance of play…

Play comes natural to kittens. Kittens start to play when they are four weeks of age and this continues up to 10-14 weeks of age. During this period, kittens engage in social play with their littermates. Social play teaches kittens good social skills, improves motor communication and hunting skills. Play is also a stress buster and keeps your kitty physically fit. It is important to keep littermates together for 8-10 weeks so that kittens can learn acceptable social behaviour and also learn to bond with each other. Aggression in play may be seen more in kittens who have been raised solitarily since these kittens miss out on the chance of learning proper social behaviour from their littermates. The mother disciplines kittens who engage in rough play by hissing, whereas, littermates might just stop playing with the erring kitten. Between 12-14 weeks of age, social play begins to phase out and object play begins. Kittens stalk, chase, bite, pounce and learn hunting skills during this stage.

Here are a few tips to play with your kitty:

• You need not spend a lot of money on toys for your kitty. Cardboard boxes, ping-pong balls, paper bags, balls, fish-poles with a toy dangling on one end, stuffed soft toys, etc can provide lots of fun and amusement.


• Do not let your kitten play with chewable toys that could be potentially harmful.


• Do not play with your hands, feet or any other body part. It may be fun when your kitty is small but will soon become painful and dangerous when your kitten becomes an adult.


• Set aside short and fixed playtime sessions for your kitty.


• Kittens enjoy playing with a fish pole with a toy dangling at the end of it. Never dangle the toy right in front of the kitten’s face. Move the toy side to side and do not make it hard for the kitten to catch the toy otherwise the kitten will be frustrated. Allow a ‘cool down period’ after the play. This will again not discourage the kitten.


• If your family can handle another kitten, get one with the same age as your kitten. Kittens love companions and can provide fun and excitement for one another.


• Provide a variety of toys. This will keep the kitten interested and curious.


• Never hit the kitten in case he shows signs of rough play. He will start to fear your hands. Say a definite No.


• Reward the kitten for good behaviour during play.

Keep in mind that the play sessions are meant to provide fun for you and your kitty. So have fun!

(Sudhersena is volunteer at the Blue Cross since 1998 and an avid animal lover, owns nine cats and three dogs. She is associated with a number of animal welfare campaigns and programmes.)

Dealing with bad breath in cats

Bad breath or Halitosis in cats is rarely seen but if you do become aware of a bad smell in your cat’s mouth then you should attend to it immediately as problems of a lasting nature can occur.

There are certain breeds of cats who are inclined to suffer from Gingivitis and this is a problem that your veterinarian can keep a regular check on. It can be very unpleasant and painful for the animal and if allowed to be untreated, chronic gum problems will develop.

Cats live mainly on fish and meat and as a result their breath can often have a strong smell. That is not to say the cat has a real problem but if it continues, then gums and teeth should be checked either by the pet parent, if they are able to handle the cat with ease, or your veterinarian to make sure that there is no infection. The difference between breath that is merely due to the diet they are fed and a breath that is foul smelling is very obvious.

Bad breath: Bad breath or Halitosis is not normal in domestic animals and this generally indicates the possibility of dental problems. Broken teeth and swelling of the face are a fair guide that your cat needs attention so she can be returned to good health and continue to live a happy life.

Tooth problem: On opening the cat’s mouth, you will quickly detect a tooth that is badly decayed and rotting. Sometimes if the teeth are in a healthy condition, the really bad breath may be caused by kidney problems or poor digestion that can go with flu or gastroenteritis. Seek veterinary advice immediately.

Gum problem: Gums that are unhealthy and there is a lack of dental care can be due to plaque build up. Plaque should be removed on a regular basis as once it begins to surround the cat’s teeth, the mouth can become very painful and your cat will begin to reject her food. As plaque builds up on the tooth, the gum surface can be pushed away from the tooth and in many cases the tooth decays so badly and it has to be removed. If available, raw chicken necks are very good for a cat to chew as this will help to keep the teeth clean and the gums pink and healthy and free from bad odour. Gums will soon become very red and inflamed and unhealthy if the diet is too soft. Unhealthy gums and teeth make for an unhealthy cat with very unpleasant breath.

Take care of the diet: A cat who lives on soft, mushy food will soon suffer from bad breath and poor oral hygiene. Feeding larger pieces of raw meat and a serving of cat biscuits allows the cat to chew on their food rather than lap it up. Some tinned food is acceptable but not as a permanent diet.

Check the teeth and gums: It is a good idea to gently roll the lip up to show the lower teeth and the upper cheek teeth. Gums should be smooth and pink in colour and the teeth white and firmly fixed in position. Do this on a regular basis so you are fully aware of the health of your cat’s teeth and gums and free from very unpleasant odour.

(Joan E Henderson is based in Australia and she has judged furry felines in many other countries including USA, Bermuda, Malaysia, South Africa, Hong Kong, Philippines and New Zealand).

Do cats and kittens need to drink cow’s milk?

Many pet parents feed only cow’s milk to their cats and kittens. This causes diarrhoea, especially in kittens. People in general think that cow’s milk provides sufficient nutrition for their cats and do not give cat food but it is not so. Let’s shun this myth.

Let mother cat feed the kittens…

Mother’s milk which contains essential nutrients and antibodies is essential for the healthy growth of kittens till they are four weeks of age. After the kittens are four weeks, they can be weaned gradually and fed moist kitten food and later dry kitten food.

There’s more than cow’s milk…

Never give cow’s milk to orphaned kittens as this will cause diarrhoea as cow’s milk does not form an essential part of a cat’s nutritional requirement. The reason is that many cats are lactose intolerant and this may cause stomach upset and diarrhoea. Feral cats survive without drinking cow’s milk.

Food for your cat...

Kittens need good nutrition which can be found in commercial cat food. If your cat is lactose tolerant, you can give her milk occasionally. If your cat develops diarrhoea after drinking cow’s milk, immediately stop giving her milk.

Water is an essential nutrient…

Always provide them a bowl of fresh water. Cats who eat dry cat food require more water than those eating moist cat food.

Kitty first-aid tips

Sometimes, your cat gets hurt and his ear bleeds...or he can have a broken nail. Here’s how to handle these situations.

First-aid for bleeding ears…

• Cut ears may bleed profusely. Carefully approach the cat and restrain him if necessary.


• Cover the wound with a clean cloth, sterile dressing or pad.


• Place dressing material on both sides of the ear flap and hold firmly to control the bleeding.


• Take him to the vet to make sure there is no damage to the inner ear.

First-aid for broken nails…

• If your cat has broken a nail, do not try to cut or remove the nail.


• Place your thumb on top of the paw, close to the nails, and your index finger on the large pad on the bottom of the paw.


• Press your thumb and the finger together. This will expose the nail for examination.


• When the nail is exposed, hold a clean cloth or sterile dressing against the nail. Bleeding should stop in a few minutes.


• If the cat seems to be in severe pain or bleeding does not stop, rush to the vet immediately.


• It is very important to use the right type of nail clipper to avoid problems when cutting cat’s nails. If you do not feel confident cutting your cat’s nails yourself it is wise to have your veterinarian do it for you.

(Joan Henderson is based in Australia and she has judged furry felines in many other countries including USA, Bermuda, Malaysia, South Africa, Hong Kong, Philippines and New Zealand)

Caring for the pearly whites!

We are responsible for the health and welfare of our cats and good mouth and tooth management is just as important as all other care factors with our animals. Let’s see why.

Importance of teeth...

Teeth are used to chew bones and larger pieces of meat and it must be clean and free from any infection. A cat with sore teeth only wants to eat soft food and this is not good for her. They use their teeth to fight and bite and generally for chewing, although some cats just swallow large chunks of food to get it down quickly.

A kitty’s teeth...

A kitten has twenty-six teeth and all adult teeth are in by six months. An adult cat has a total of thirty teeth. Situated in the cat’s mouth like this:

Importance of tooth care...

A healthy cat has firm gums that are closely attached to the teeth. When we see healthy, pink gums we feel sure that our cat has clean, healthy teeth. If we see any blood around the teeth and gums we should have this checked to make sure that the cat is not anaemic and that there is no sign of gingivitis which is an unpleasant and often painful inflammation of the gums.

Ulcerated gums can cause dental problems and often you will notice that your cat is not interested in her food and just prefers to drink either water or milk. If a cat has really sore teeth and gums she will not groom herself and this can make for a very unkempt and unhappy cat.

Just like humans, cats can develop tooth decay or abscesses. More often than not, this is caused by a poor diet. Tooth ache is unpleasant for humans and cats and caring for their teeth on a regular basis makes for a happy cat.

Tooth care...

Here’s how to take care of your cat’s teeth:

• It is wise to check your cat’s teeth on a regular basis.


• Do not feed your cat only soft, sloppy food as her teeth will not be cleaned and will develop plaque or tartar which, in turn, can cause decay.


• Never give any cat/kitten cooked chicken necks or bones as these can splinter and cause serious problems.


• Hard cat biscuits are also very helpful to keep cat’s teeth clean.


• A small, soft toothbrush is often useful for pet parents to clean the cat’s teeth. You must start to do this when the animal is quite young so that, as they get older, they will be used to this procedure and accept it quite willingly.


• Use the smallest amount of mild toothpaste for cats.


• If you are not sure that you can do this yourself please take your cat to the veterinarian every six months so that her teeth can be checked and cleaned.


• As your cat gets older, it is important to keep a check on the teeth so that any problem can be remedied and prevent your cat becoming distressed.

(Joan Henderson is based in Australia and she has judged furry felines in many other countries including USA, Bermuda, Malaysia, South Africa, Hong Kong, Philippines and New Zealand)

Feline mammary tumours

Know some facts about feline mammary tumours, which are the third most common tumours in female cats.

• Around 80-90 percent mammary gland tumours in cats are malignant (serious).


• Size of the tumour is probably the best prognostic indicator, whereas factors like age of the patient, tumour number and location have less prognostic value.


• Tumour size larger than two cm is considered to be serious.


• Risk of feline mammary tumours is similar for spayed and non-spayed cats.


• Chemotherapy may have minimal anti-tumour activity. But adjunct chemotherapy may be used together with surgery to remove the tumours.

Therapy

Mammary neoplasms in the cat have been treated in a variety of ways. Surgery is the most widely used treatment. It may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy or other modes of cancer therapy.

Surgery

The success of surgery is hindered by the invasive nature of the disease and its tendency for early metastasis. Radical mastectomy (i.e., removal of all glands on the affected side) is the surgical method of choice because it significantly reduces the chance of local tumour recurrence. This procedure is frequently utilised, regardless of the size of the tumour.

The surgeon’s knowledge of the anatomy of the area is critical for local control of the tumour. The cat, unlike the dog, usually has four pairs of mammary glands. The two cranial glands on each side have a common lymphatic system and drain into the axillary lymph nodes and then to sternal nodes. The two caudal glands tend to drain to inguinal lymph nodes.

Several surgical principles are observed when performing a mastectomy on feline mammary tumour patients. As opposed to the dog, in which more conservative resections may be appropriate in carefully selected cases, most cats require a complete unilateral or bilateral mastectomy. Tumour fixation to the skin or abdominal fascia necessitates en bloc removal of these structures. Complete unilateral mastectomy is usually performed if the tumours are confined to one side. Staged mastectomy (two weeks apart) or simultaneous bilateral mastectomy is done when the tumours are bilateral. The inguinal lymph node is virtually always removed with gland, while the axillary lymph nodes are removed only if enlarged and cytologically positive for tumour. Aggressive or prophylactic removal of axillary nodes, whether positive or negative, probably has little therapeutic benefit.

Although ovariohysterectorny has been shown not to decrease the incidence of recurrence, some believe that it is warranted because of the occasionally seen coexisting ovarian and uterine disease. If the mammary mass is due to a benign condition such as fibroepithelial hyperplasia, ovariohysterectorny often results in regression of the hyperplastic tissue. This condition often resolves spontaneously within a few weeks of diagnosis; in some cases, without performing an ovariohysterectorny.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is not used routinely to treat feline mammary tumours. Currently, there are no major claims that radiation increases the survival rate of feline mammary tumour patients.

Chemotherapy

Combination chemotherapy has been shown to induce short-term responses in about half of the cats with metastatic or nonresectable local disease. In one study, 7 of 14 (50 percent) had a partial response (>50 percent regression). The chemotherapy protocol can be repeated every 3 to 4 weeks. We have found that the major side effect with this protocol has been profound anorexia and mild myelosuppression. Reducing the dose may limit toxicity to an acceptable level. Prospective studies using combined adjuvant chemotherapy and mastectomy in the cat have yet to be performed.

(Dr M Chandrasekar is Associate Professor at the Department of Veterinary Medicine, Ethics and Jurisprudence, Madras Veterinary College, Chennai).

When it’s time to call a vet…

Your proud sweet feline is losing weight or is unusually lethargic…he is throwing up or is showing an abnormal behaviour…do not wait, call your vet immediately…your feline is probably sick. Here’s how to know if your kitty needs a professional care.

Kitties can’t talk but as a pet parent, you can analyse when your kitty needs a professional veterinary care. Here’s a list to make it easier for you to know when to call a vet:

• Hiding in a quiet, dark place


• Is lethargic, sleeping more than usual


• Yowling or crying


• Has become quiet all of a sudden


• Unexplained weight loss or gain


• Unusual aggressiveness


• Breathing problem


• Sneezing or coughing


• Has ticks or fleas


• Has ear mites


• Suffering from mange


• Has yellow skin


• Has bad breath


• Cannot digest anything, throwing up


• Has diarrhoea


• Loss of appetite


• Very thirsty or not drinking water


• Showing abnormal behaviour


• Does not react when you touch or pick her up


• Change in physical appearance


• Cannot move easily


• Lumps on the body


• Taking more time to heal wounds, blemishes, etc


• Has stopped grooming herself


• Discharge from any body opening


• Not urinating at all or blood in urine


• Excessive urination


• Excessive licking of genitals


• Litterbox issues – change in colour or consistency of poop

…there may be many more. You know your kitty best, observe her regularly and contact your vet immediately if you find any abnormalities. Remember, early detection of cat illness symptoms increases the likelihood that treatment will be successful, besides cutting down on the vet bills.

Wool sucking: feline obsessive-compulsive disorder

We all love cuddling our balls of fur, giving them warm hugs, showing how much we care for them. But imagine if they start chewing our sweaters while we are expressing our love...well, a bit inconvenient. This strange behavior when they chew on sweaters, towels, blankets or even carpets is commonly called wool sucking... here’s more info about the same.

Cravings to chew...

• The causes of this behavior are not well understood, but it is mostly seen in oriental breeds (Siamese and Burmese cats).


• Some kittens are weaned early resulting in suckling deprivation and such cats when grow up mostly exhibit this habit.


• It has also found that odor of lanolin in wool is similar to the odor of the fur around the nipples of the kitten’s mother, which contributes to this inappropriate behaviour.


• Anxiety and stress also contributes to this behaviour to some extent.

Remediation...a better solution

• The best solution is to keep ‘Chews’ out of reach, keep sweaters etc in closet or at a place, where kitties cannot reach...to chew on.


• If there’s a favourite spot to chew on...spray it with a bitter spray or apply anxious-tasting substances such as cologne, pepper sauce or a commercial repellant to these objects...once bitten twice shy...this will work wonders.


• Leave kittens with mother for at least twelve weeks.


• Provide other things for the cat to chew on, such as a sock with a ball in it or a cat toy.


• Keep a vigil on your cat and if found sucking, immediately use trusty water pistol to shoo her way.


• Consult your veterinarian for a solution and medication...if required.

Respond...straightaway

In some cats, the sucking begins with wool, but then progresses to other available materials such as cotton or even plastic. The behaviour most often begins at puberty; if it is not cured at the initial stages, sometimes it might prove fatal, as they may swallow non-food items, such as plastic or fabric, which could lead to an intestinal obstruction or serious digestive illness. It is therefore essential to get rid of the habit at its earliest.

(Dr. Deepa Katyal, MVSC (Mumbai), MVSt (Australia) is a veterinary practitioner at Chembur, Mumbai. She is CEO of K-9 Klub for dog lovers. She can be contacted at 9819742557.)

Preventing common kitty problems

We all know that prevention is better than cure. Here are a few ways to prevent common problems in your furry felines.

We cannot keep our cats safe and well all the time, but a little forethought can help minimise the risks to which they are exposed. Our cats cannot understand what these are. So, it is up to us to think about how we take care of them and to keep them as healthy and well protected as we possibly can.

Acute renal failure

Some cases of acute renal failure can be prevented by removing the causes from your home. Easter lilies and some other similar plants are toxic to cats and even a sprinkling of pollen licked off the fur can be enough to cause problems. Make it known to your loved ones that you prefer to be given other types of flowers. Antifreeze can also cause renal failure and some cats seem attracted to its smell, so avoid having it in your house or garage if possible, or at least keep it safely shut away. If any antifreeze is spilled, then clean it up properly.

Urinary tract obstruction and bladder stones

These conditions may be triggered and can certainly be exacerbated by cats having an insufficient intake of liquids. So, ensure that there is always a plentiful supply of fresh, clean drinking water for your kitty. You can encourage cats to drink by putting additional water bowls around the house, using drinking fountains and adding ice cubes to the water bowls. Providing drinks other than water as occasional treats can also help increase the liquids intake, but these should only be suitable drinks, such as cat milk, spring water from a can of tuna (not brine as it is too salty), or a little homemade meat or fish stock with no salt. Adding water to their food can also be useful with cats who seem to dislike drinking.

Foreign body ingestion

Many cats become seriously ill or die each year from this but it can be avoided. Sharp objects may stick in the throat, but it is more common to find foreign bodies stuck in the stomach or small intestine. If an object such as a toy of teat from a baby’s bottle is swallowed and cannot pass through the cat’s digestive system, it can cause a blockage. Also pieces of thread, string or shoelaces can cause problems if they trail through the intestines and cause them to fold over or knot up. Be aware of such kind of things that could cause problems and do not allow them to be left lying around. Make sure sewing kits and small objects are not left in accessible places, especially when playful kittens are running about. Keep an eye on your cats’ behaviour and if they enjoy chewing toys, make sure you throw away any that come apart. If you see a cat swallow anything and then start vomiting, rush to a vet immediately.

Gingivitis and tooth loss

It is known that gingivitis in cats can be significantly exacerbated by other conditions, so keeping your cat generally healthy is a good first step in preventing it. However, any cat can be affected and avoiding dental plaque and tartar is an important preventative measure. Too much soft sticky food can lead to the development of plaque and tartar and this can be minimised by feeding dry food, especially large kibbles which need to be bitten before the cat swallows them. There are also treat foods available to help keep teeth clean, including special cat treats as well as foods such as jerky, or dried (unsalted) fish. Large chunks of meat such as ‘ham ends’ can also be given. Some owners give raw chicken wings, but cooked bones should never be given as they can splinter.

(Anthony Nichols has been showing cats for about 20 years, starting with non-pedigrees, and breeding for about ten years. He has bred Devon Rex and Singapuras, but mainly focuses on breeding LaPerms in a range of colours, particularly the reds, creams, torties, chocolates and colourpoints).

Caring for Your Cat: The Top Ten Essentials

Although your cat may act independent and be litter-trained, he still counts on you to provide him with food, water, safe shelter, regular veterinary care, companionship, and more. Take care of these ten essentials, and you’ll be guaranteed to develop a rewarding relationship with your feline companion.

1. Outfit your cat with a collar and ID tag that includes your name, address, and telephone number. No matter how careful you are, there’s a chance your companion may slip out the door—an ID tag greatly increases the chance that your cat will be returned home safely. 
   
   


2. Follow local cat registration laws. Licensing, a registration and identification system administered by some local governments protects both cats and people in the community. 
   
   


3. Keep your cat indoors. Keeping your cat safely confined at all times is best for you, your pet, and your community. 
   
   


4. Take your cat to the veterinarian for regular check-ups. If you do not have a veterinarian, ask your local animal shelter or a pet-owning friend for a referral. 
   
   


5. Spay or neuter your pet. This will keep her healthier and will reduce the problem of cat overpopulation. 
   
   


6. Give your cat a nutritionally balanced diet, including constant access to fresh water. Ask your veterinarian for advice on what and how often to feed your pet. 
   
   


7. Train your cat to refrain from undesirable behaviours such as scratching furniture and jumping on countertops. Contrary to popular belief, cats can be trained with a bit of patience, effort, and understanding on your part. 
   
   


8. Groom your cat often to keep her coat healthy, soft, and shiny. Although it is especially important to brush long-haired cats to prevent their hair from matting, even short-haired felines need to be groomed to remove as much loose hair as possible. When cats groom themselves, they ingest a great deal of hair, which often leads to hairballs. 
   
   


9. Set aside time to play with your cat. While cats do not need the same level of exercise that dogs do, enjoying regular play sessions with your pet will provide him with the physical exercise and mental stimulation he needs, as well as strengthen the bond you share. 
   
   


10. Be loyal to and patient with your cat. Make sure the expectations you have of your companion are reasonable and remember that the vast majority of behaviour problems can be solved. If you are struggling with your pet’s behaviour, contact your veterinarian or local animal shelter for advice, and check out the HSUS’s Pets for Life campaign information.

(This article is contributed by Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), the nation’s largest and most effective animal protection organization. Established in 1954, HSUS seeks a humane and sustainable world for all animals; www.hsus.org)

When’s the time to seek a vet?

As a pet parent, we should learn to observe in detail and know when to take the cat to the vet. How do you decide?

• Know how much your cat eats. If this amount changes significantly (except in a growing kitten), know what the reason is. See the veterinarian in the absence of a good reason.


• Cats should have good habits, including keeping their fur and anus clean. If you still find your cat does not look as clean as she should be or if she stops grooming herself, seek a vet as chances are that she might not be physically fit to groom herself.


• New problems deserve an answer. Fleas could signal their presence by black flecks and scabs. Excessive matting may indicate a need for better quality fatty acid balance in the diet. If you notice any such abnormalities, seek your vet immediately.


• Lift the cat’s tail and look at the anus. If there are rice like objects, light tan in colour hanging on the anus, they are probably tapeworm eggs. Take your kitty to the vet who will set a proper deworming schedule for your cat. Beginning four months of age, your cat should be dewormed every three months. But, if you have a kitten, she would need to be dewormed every three weeks.


• If the cat (particularly a long haired cat) has faeces clinging to the perianal area, ask your vet to trim the fur in that area. This can prevent infection from having the faeces trapped next to the skin.


• Although you provide an excellent diet, and the cat appears to be in the best health, a yearly veterinary visit is recommended much like a yearly doctor’s visit for humans.

(Kit Humphrey, featured columnist of Cats & Kittens, is a retired physician from Siberian Gatos Cattery in the US)

Watch out for fever!

It is very important to monitor your kitty’s body temperature to ensure she is healthy. Let’s see why.

Case file…

Tiger, my tripod feline pal, is usually active, naughty and playful. One day I noticed that he seemed to be in a lot of pain and was finding it difficult to walk or run. I took him immediately to the veterinarian. Tiger’s body temperature was taken and it was 104oF and rising fast. Normal body temperatures in cats range between 100-102.5°F. Immediately, the fever was brought down and Tiger was prescribed some antibiotics. I was also advised to take Tiger’s temperature at different times during the next day. The next day, Tiger’s temperature was 104.5oF and was once again rising. By the time I reached the pet clinic with Tiger, the temperature was above 105oF. Blood tests were done but the results were normal. Over the next three weeks, Tiger was treated with antibiotics to which he responded well and his temperature returned to normal. Tiger continues to be in good health. It is very important to monitor your feline’s body temperature.

What is fever…

A fever (also known as pyrexia) is defined as an abnormally high body temperature which is generated by the body to fight disease. Its purpose is to raise the internal body temperature to levels which will kill bacteria.

Symptoms of fever…

Loss of appetite, lethargy, listlessness, dehydration, shivering, rapid breathing are some of the symptoms of fever.

First aid for fever…

First aid for a cat having high temperature includes using fans and offering cool fresh water to cool the cat. You can also wrap some wet cloth around your cat to temporarily bring down the temperature, but never bathe your cat. You should then take your cat immediately to the veterinarian. If your cat has temperature over 105oF for more than a day or two, it can lead to dehydration, loss of appetite, listlessness, and even brain damage.

Measuring temperature…

Feeling the ears, body or nose is not the accurate way of telling if your cat has fever. The only reliable way to determine if your cat has fever is by taking her temperature. This is done rectally using a thermometer, either digital or mercury. If you are using a mercury thermometer, shake down the mercury to a level below 96ºF (35.6ºC). Lubricate the bulb with a small amount of petroleum or K-Y jelly. Lift your cat’s tail and insert the tip of the thermometer, about one inch, into the rectum. Normal thermometers should be left in there for two minutes. Digital thermometers should be left in until they beep.

You should exercise caution while taking the temperature of your cat. If your cat is not cooperative, seek the help of another person. Your helper can hold the cat while you take the temperature. Also rush your cat to the vet.

When to call a vet…

If the temperature of your cat is above 104°F, you should be concerned and a visit to the veterinarian would be called for. But if the temperature crosses 105oF, it requires immediate attention of the veterinarian.

Besides, very low body temperatures for cats are usually a serious sign and require immediate medical attention.

(Sudhersena is volunteer at the Blue Cross since 1998 and an avid animal lover, owns nine cats and three dogs. She is associated with a number of animal welfare campaigns and programmes)

Abscess in felines

Abscesses developed due to puncture wounds inflicted during fights among male cats are very common. Here are some symptoms and protection measures of abscesses.

At the Blue Cross animal shelter, we very often come across several tomcats with abscesses. Abscesses contain pus that usually occur as a result of puncture wounds inflicted during cat fights. Fight abscesses, especially among male cats, are very common in felines. When cats bite each other during fights the skin is punctured, infecting the tissues inside with bacteria. The wound heals over while trapping the bacteria inside. Pus accumulates in that area as the cat tries to fight off infection.

Identification of abscesses

All wounds do not develop into an abscess. It depends on the depth of the bite, the number and type of bacteria present in the wound and the ability of the cat to fight off the infection. The abscess will be a soft, painful swelling under the skin.

Signs of abscesses

If your cat develops an abscess, he may show the following symptoms:

• Fever


• Loss of appetite


• Lethargy


• He may sit in a ‘hunched over’ position


• He may limp if the abscess is located on a leg or foot


• Pus and blood may ooze from the abscesses

Protection measures

You can protect your cat by following these simple tips:

• If you suspect your cat has been bitten, take him to the vet immediately. The vet can thoroughly examine your cat for any serious wounds. Preventive action can protect your feline friend from developing abscesses.


• If you know your cat has been in a fight, examine him for any puncture wounds or abscesses. The vulnerable areas are head, neck, forelegs and lower back the base of the spine.


• Keeping your cat indoors will prevent fighting and abscesses.


• Male cats fight more than female cats. Neutering your male cat will go a long way in preventing fight and abscesses.

Abscesses are painful and can make the cat ill. Abscesses also make a cat at risk to FIV. Treatment for abscess is through draining of the pus and administering antibiotics. Early action will protect your cat from pain and discomfort.

(Sudhersena is volunteer at the Blue Cross since 1998 and an avid animal lover, owns nine cats and three dogs. She is associated with a number of animal welfare campaigns and programmes.)

What to do when your kitty throws up?

Your kitty vomits, don’t get anxious, try to find out the cause…. Here are a few tips to know when to call a vet.

Vomiting or regurgitation is common in the cat and happens for a variety of reasons – worms, hairball, obstruction, tumour, poisoning, constipation, illness, overfeeding, over-excitement or eating food that is too cold or too hot. In general, vomiting long after a meal is a more serious sign than vomiting immediately afterwards.

In fact, a cat’s stomach tends to reject anything that is indigestible. Examine the vomit to get an idea of what is wrong. Do you see matted hair, worms or a foreign object? Does the cat also act sick or feverish? In the latter case, call a veterinarian right away. Otherwise, give the cat a mild, recommended motion sickness or stomach settling tablet or a teaspoon of milk of magnesia.

If he continues to vomit or refuses cat food, call the vet immediately.

(Joan Henderson is based in Australia and she has judged furry felines in many other countries including USA, Bermuda, Malaysia, South Africa, Hong Kong, Philippines and New Zealand)

Feline AIDS: what you should know about it?

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in felines, first identified in 1986, is similar to the AIDS virus in humans. Let’s know more about this deadly disease.

Like HIV, FIV is referred as ‘Feline AIDS’ and it may lay dormant for years before symptoms occur. The cat can live a normal and healthy life, even up to 10 years, without developing any symptoms of the disease.

Transmission of FIV

The virus is transmitted from cat to cat through deep bite wounds (major route), blood transfusions, sexually, but not through urine, bowl sharing and snuggling. The virus is shed through saliva. The disease can also be passed on by the mother cat to her kittens, but this is rare. The intact male cats who roam and fight are at a greatest risk. The virus is not transmitted to humans or dogs.

Problems associated with FIV

If the virus becomes active, it attacks the cat’s immune system, making it ineffective in combating infections and diseases. Eventually, the cat succumbs to the secondary diseases. FIV-infected cats may show nonspecific signs such as lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) and weight loss.

Shun the disease!

There is no cure for this deadly disease for now but a vaccine has recently become available to help reduce the risk of acquiring this deadly disease. Meanwhile, the best method to protect your furry friend would be to keep him indoors and have him neutered.

(Sudhersena is volunteer at the Blue Cross since 1998 and an avid animal lover, owns nine cats and three dogs. She is associated with a number of animal welfare campaigns and programmes.)

Keeping your Kitty in good health

Our kitties can also have problems like constipation or some urinary problems. Here’s how to help him out.

Constipation…

A cat’s stools should be moist but firm; most have one movement a day but this varies from cat to cat. Constipation is caused by lack of exercise, hairballs, lack of liquids in the diet, disease or psychic trauma such as moving to a new home. Constipation can be a symptom of a tumour or serious disease.

Cure: If the constipation is mild and the cat is eating and otherwise healthy, give him a small amount of raw liver, greens, white petroleum jelly on the roof of his mouth or any other remedy suggested by your veterinarian (certainly not all the above suggestions at one time). If the condition does not correct itself in a day or two, seek the advice of your vet.

Urinary disorders…

Cats who don’t get enough exercise, particularly males, are prone to bladder trouble. The two most common kinds of disorders are: cystisis, which is an inflammation of the bladder, causing painful, strained urination (symptoms include blood-tinged urine, stiff hindquarters and a pronounced ammonia odour) and bladder stones which block the urinary passage (symptoms are a distended bladder and an inability to urinate).

Cure: Consult with a veterinarian without delay before there are secondary complications.

(Joan Henderson is based in Australia and she has judged furry felines in many other countries including USA, Bermuda, Malaysia, South Africa, Hong Kong, Philippines and New Zealand)