The Nature of Neutering: Benefits of Spaying Your Cat

 

In recent decades, the campaign for spaying and neutering dogs and cats has embedded itself into communities. Many shelters require animals which are adopted from its facility to undergo the procedure, and there are often discount prices given to those looking for the service. Many owners only see this as a way to keep pet overpopulation from occurring. However, there are several additional benefits to spaying and neutering your feline friends:

• Reduced chance for uterus infections and breast cancer in females as well as urinary tract infections.
• Reduced hormonal changes in both sexes which can cause behaviors to become unstable or negative.
• Male cats which are neutered cannot get testicular cancer.
• Male cats which undergo this procedure live on average 40 percent longer than unneutered males.
• Helps male cats to remain mellow. This treatment will reduce the likelihood of them wandering away from home or engaging in fights with other felines which could result in contraction an infection or disease.

While overpopulation certainly is a problem, the above benefits of spaying and neutering should be enough to convince any cat owner that this is the correct choice for their pet’s safety and happiness in future years. To learn more about this process and locate a neuter clinic in Santa Cruz, visit this website.

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3 Signs of Developing Gum Disease in Dogs

Many dog owners love their pets as if they were children. They feed them well, play with them, purchase them toys and even sometimes dress them up. However, many well-meaning owners forget one of the most important aspects of having a pet – keeping them healthy. One of the most common ailments which dogs experience is deterioration of the gums that can negatively impact many aspects of their lives, including simple tasks such as eating or drinking. Almost eighty percent of dogs above the age of three experience issues in his area. There are three main signs which indicate that your dog could be developing gum problems.

Bad breath is common for many dogs. However, abnormally bad breath can be a sign of the beginnings of gum decay. Like with humans, the bacteria left behind in a dog’s mouth can cause bad breath. However, dogs lack the ability to rid themselves of excess food and bacteria, leading to a buildup that turns to plaque and tartar which is harmful to the gums as well as the teeth.

Another common symptom is difficulty chewing or mouth sensitivity. This may often be exhibited alongside red, inflamed gums, the result from a buildup of bacteria and other harmful debris over long periods of time. At this stage of the gum deterioration, preventative care is no longer an option and a dog will often need to visit a veterinarian in order to get the issue under control. This can be extremely uncomfortable for the pet, and should be dealt with right away, lest the pet begun losing its appetite or develop behavioral problems associated with the pain.

A third sign of deteriorating gums is the loss of teeth. Bacterial infections which cause damage to the gums can also interfere with the roots of teeth, causing them to loosen and eventually fall out. A dog’s teeth are essential to their leading a happy and healthy life, and therefore a gum cleaning should be performed far before this stage of decay has been reached. Veterinarians can oftentimes perform this procedure in their offices.

Maintaining the health of a dog’s teeth and gums are paramount to keeping the pet happy and healthy throughout its life with a family. However, many owners do not know the signs which mark the beginnings of gum deterioration, or do not grasp the implications of these symptoms and their possible results. To learn more about how to keep a dog’s gums healthy and pet dental care in Santa Cruz, visit this website.

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The Importance of Microchipping Your Dog

 

Your love your dog and treat it like part of your family. It’s impossible for your four-legged friend to call home when it’s lost, however. That’s where microchipping comes in. There are many benefits to microchipping your dog including:

• Not bulky
• Can’t be damaged or lost
• Quick and easy

Small and Discreet

Collars are bulky and can be easily removed by strangers, or even your dog. When you have a microchip implanted you are choosing a reliable method to find your pet. They are approximately the size of a grain of rice and can’t be damaged or lost, making them a better option than a dog collar and tags alone.

Fast and Painless

Microchipping is not only a cost-effective way of protecting your pet, it’s also a safe one. The chip is implanted between your dog’s shoulder blades and carries a digital code to identify your pet. There are minimal side effects to the procedure and it is fast and painless. The outpatient surgery is a great way to protect your pet if it is stolen or becomes lost.

Whether you have just brought home a new puppy or you want to protect your old companion, microchipping is a great way to keep your pet safe. For those who want more information on microchipping dogs in Santa Cruz, visit this website.

Caring for Your Pet

 

Your pets are part of your family and deserve the best possible care when they are sick, injured or need any type of surgery or treatment. Finding a veterinarian that meets the needs of you and your pet is key.

Three Most Common Cat Problems

When you bring home a new furry friend, the first thing you want to do is schedule a veterinary appointment Your cat’s doctor can check for a wide array of issues as well as vaccinate against feline diseases. Your cat can live a longer and healthier life if you bring them to a veterinary clinic each year for check-ups and seek treatment whenever a new problem arises. A veterinarian can also ensure that your cat is well nourished and ready to thrive in your home.

One of the most common medical issues for cats is eye problems. Infections, trauma, inflammation and certain diseases can all cause issues with your pet’s eyes. Your cat may experience cloudy or watery eyes, build-up and squinting. Veterinarians can perform physical exams and certain tests to help diagnose and treat the cause of eye problems. Your cat’s eyesight is an important part of its overall health and well-being. Catching the issue early and seeking treatment at a veterinary clinic is the key to keeping your cat healthy and seeing well.

Tapeworm is another issue that plagues your feline friends. Cats may vomit or experience weight loss and the worms may be visible in your pet’s stools. This is one of the most common ailments in cats but also one of the most treatable and preventable. Veterinarians can deliver treatment via injection, topical ointments or oral medication. It is important to make a veterinarian appointment for your cat at the first sign of a tapeworm infection.

A third major medical issue for cats is fleas. The tiny bugs are hard to see but can cause major itching for your pet, among other problems. Fleas can also lead to tapeworms and anemia. Your cat may exhibit symptoms like constant scratching or licking, hair loss and irritated skin. There are many options available for flea control and your cat’s doctor can explain them all to you. Flea prevention and control is an important way to ensure your cat, other pets and family members are all comfortable, safe and healthy.

Whether you have adopted a new four-legged friend or your long-term pet is exhibiting symptoms of a medical illness or infection, seeking proper treatment is vital. Many of the most common feline illnesses are preventable and treatable. The right veterinary clinic will help you by answering any questions you have about vaccinations, medications and other treatment options. Those in need of feline medical care in Soquel should visit this website for more information.