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Busting the Myth About Heartworm Disease in Cats

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Busting the Myth About Heartworm Disease in Cats

Heartworm disease in cats is often neglected because many people have the misconception that they are not likely to get infected with the disease or have a very low chance of infection and that it can be easily treated at home, like other illnesses. However, all of these are not true.

Heartworm disease in cats requires much awareness, as many household cats have fallen victim to this negligence and lack of information. Thus, with this blog, we are here to bust some myths about heartworm disease in cats and bring to your knowledge the truth about heartworms in cats.

Heartworm disease in Cats?

Heartworm disease is a serious disease that may result in severe lung disease, heart failure, other organ damage, and death in pets, mainly dogs, cats, and ferrets. It is caused by a parasitic worm called Dirofilaria immitis.

The only way heartworm is spread is through a mosquito bite. Mosquitoes carry larvae from an infected animal and transmit larvae to another animal, making it a victim of heartworm.

Heartworm infection is different in cats than in dogs. In cats, heartworms grow long and the parasite burden is also lower. Only a few worms can heavily infect a feline. Respiratory symptoms are easily seen in cats which indicates the possibility of heartworm disease. There are two instances when cats display symptoms of heartworm disease: when the immature heartworms enter their heart and lung arteries, and the second is when adult heartworms perish.

Busting Common Myths Around Heartworms in Cats


Myth 1: Heartworm is a dog disease. Heartworm affects furry animals, including dogs, cats, and ferrets.

Cats are likely to get infected with heartworms in the same manner as dogs, through mosquito bites. Scientific studies have found that heartworm infection in cats is more common than other infections like FeLV FIV. Research shows that over 26% of cats get infected with heartworm larvae at some point in their lives, out of which 10% result in adult heartworm.

Myth 2: Heartworm Disease Primarily Affects a Cat’s Heart

Heartworm infection not only affects the heart but also the lungs and other organs. The term is a misnomer when it comes to infection. It affects respiratory organs and other cardiovascular diseases.

Myth 3: There’s a Treatment for Heartworm Disease in Cats.

For cats, there is no treatment that kills heartworms the treatments available, only focus on reducing the inflammation in any organs or the symptoms of the disease until the worms die on their own. Since there is no reliable treatment for heartworm in cats, preventive treatment is vital and should be administered to cats at the recommended intervals.

Myth 4: My Kitten is Too Young for Me to Worry about Heartworm Disease.

Age has nothing to do with heartworm infection. Kittens or cats of any age can be infected by mosquitoes carrying the disease and thus are likely to get infected with the worm.

Myth 5: I can stop giving my pet heartworm prevention during the winter.

Mosquitos in winters are less compared to summers, but the chances of heartworm still prevail. It will only take one mosquito bite to transmit heartworm larvae to your feline. Therefore, veterinarians recommend administering heartworm preventive treatment to cats every month, all year long.

Myth 6: Skipping a dose or two of my pet’s heartworm preventive is not a big deal.

Heartworm prevention works retroactively. Whether you administer a pill, spot-on solution, or injectable to your pet, every treatment has a specific period of its effectiveness. As soon as it passes its efficacy duration, it may expose your cat to infection and disease. Thus, it’s critical to repeat heartworm prevention treatment on the same date every month or as per the recommended duration mentioned on the product label.

Bottom Line

As you may already know, heartworm prevention is crucial in safeguarding your cat’s health against this deadly disease. The best way to protect your cat from heartworm is prevention. It’s essential to consult with your veterinarian and explore the available options for heartworm preventives that are suitable for your cat. Administer the appropriate dosage every month or as advised by your veterinarian. Remember, prevention is the key to keeping your feline friend healthy and happy.

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Popular Dog & Cat Treats-2023

As a pet owner, finding the perfect treat for your furry friend can be a challenging task. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which treats are both tasty and healthy for your pet. Here, we will discuss the top picks for dog and cat treats.

Why Give Your Pet Treats?
                      
Giving your pet treats is a common way to show them love and affection. However, treats are more than just a way to indulge your furry friend. They also offer plenty of benefits to your pet’s health and behaviour, such as:

  • Positive reinforcement: You can give treats as a reward for good behaviour and as a way to reinforce positive behaviour in your pet.
  • Training: You can reward your pets with treats while training them or teaching them tricks.
  • Bonding: Sharing treats with your pet is a way to strengthen your relationship with them.
  • Health benefits: Some treats provide health benefits- such as dental chews to keep your pet’s teeth and gums clean.

How To Choose The Right Pet Treats?

Selecting the best pet treats can be confusing, especially when you have so many choices. However, the following pointers can assist you in making the best decision:

  • Read the ingredients: It’s essential to check the ingredients to ensure that the pet treats you choose are made with ingredients that are safe for your pet.
  • Consider your pet’s age and health: Choose treats that are appropriate for your pet’s age and health. For example, if your pet has dental issues, choose treats that promote dental health. If your pet is older, look for treats that are easy to digest.
  • Choose the right size and texture: Look for treats that are appropriate in size and texture for your pet’s size and chewing style.
  • Look for treats with added benefits: Consider treats that offer additional benefits, such as treats that aid digestion, joint condition, or skin and coat health. Look for treats that contain added vitamins and minerals or probiotics to support your pet’s health.
  • Choose treats your pet loves: Finally, choose treats your pet enjoys. If your pet doesn’t like the taste or texture of a particular treat, avoid buying it, as it will be a waste of money.

Popular Dog and Cat Treats 2023

Pure Life Healthy Gut Mackerel Dog Treats

Pure Life Treats is a popular choice for your pet with high-quality, natural treats made with 100% natural ingredients. The brand prides itself on using only natural ingredients like chicken, turkey, and beef, ensuring that the pet gets the best nutrition.

Flavor:

  • Mackerel

About The Product:

  • Single-source protein and GMO-free
  • Good source of Vitamin A, calcium, probiotics, and fiber
  • Contains natural anti-inflammatory Omega 3’s.

Treat Benefits:

  • Supports digestive health
  • Improves bowel function
  • Promotes intestinal health
  • Boosts immune system

Manufacturer:

  • Pure Life Pet Foods

Pure Life also offers treats for joint health, mental well-being, glossy fur, skin & nails. You will also find products like Shiny Coat & Skin Turkey Dog Treats, Hypoallergenic Crocodile Dog Treats, and Zen and Relaxed Duck Dog Treats.

Love’em Beef Joint Care Cookie Treats

Love’em Treat is an Australian brand that offers a wide range of treats made with high-quality, natural ingredients free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. The brand offers treats made from real meat, fish, vegetables, and other low-fat and hypoallergenic ingredients.

Flavor:

  • Australian-beef liver

About The Product:

  • 100% Australian made
  • All-natural ingredients

Treat Benefits:

  • Supports joint health
  • Useful as a reward, post-training.

Manufacturer:

  • Real Pet Food Co.

They are available in different varieties and textures to suit the dietary needs and preferences of your pet. You will find more products such as Beef Liver Brownies Treats, Beef Liver Training Treats & Chicken Training Treats.

Greenies Dental Treats Catnip Flavor

Greenies is a brand that promotes your pet’s dental health by offering a variety of dental chews and treats. They are made with natural and wholesome ingredients with unique textures that help in cleaning teeth and gums while chewing.

Flavor:

  • Catnip

About The Product:

  • 100% nutritionally balanced
  • Contain vitamins, minerals, taurine, and chlorophyll
  • Only for cats.

Treat Benefits:

  • Clean and strengthen teeth
  • Encourages chewing
  • Leaves breath fresh
  • Reduce plaque and tartar build-up

Manufacturer:

  • Nutro

DiscountPetCare provides products like Blueberry Dental Treats & Dental Treats Salmon Flavor in different sizes to suit dogs and cats of all breeds and ages.

Whimzees Hedgehog Dental Chew

Whimzees offers a range of treats that takes care of your pet’s oral hygiene. They come in different shapes, sizes, and textures, including sticks, brushes, and  alligators designed for dental cleaning.

Flavor:

  • Natural

About The Product:

  • GMO-free and grain free
  • Designed in unique knobby shapes
  • Low fat and rich in vitamins and antioxidants

Treat Benefits:

  • Removes plaque and tartar build-up
  • Freshens breath
  • Promotes proper blood flow through the gums

Manufacturer:

  • WellPet

A few other products from Whimzees that you must try are- Alligator Dental Treat, Veggie Sausage Treat, & Veggie Strip Dental Treat.

Yours Droolly Chicken and Fish Sticks

Yours Droolly is an Australian brand that offers a variety of products for dogs and cats including treats such as dental treats, jerky treats, training treats, and more. The treats are made with high-quality, easy-to-digest ingredients.

Flavor:

  • Chicken and Codfish

About The Product:

  • Ideal source of protein
  • Soft, crunchy, and chewy textured

Treat Benefits:

  • Enhance muscle strength
  • Used as a training aid

Manufacturer:

  • Master pet

To cater to specific dietary needs, Yours Droolly comes in different varieties, such as Chicken Sticks Treat, and Chicken & Sweet Potato. In conclusion, there are plenty of options for dog and cat treats on the market. If you are not sure, consult a veterinarian for choosing the best treats for your furry friend. Just remember to use treats in moderation and as part of a balanced diet along with appropriate pet food to ensure your pet stays happy and healthy.

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Learn Healthy Dental Practices for Your Pet

One of the most common reasons for dental diseases in pets is poor oral hygiene. To maintain their overall health, a good oral care must be taken into consideration. Hence, a lot of emphasis is placed on promoting good dental health in pets. So today we will have a look at some common causes and symptoms of dental problems, and learn about ways to keep your pet’s mouth, teeth, and gums clean and healthy. 
 
Signs of dental problems
 
Poor dental hygiene can lead to tartar and plaque buildup and may result in an infection in the long run. Here are a few signs that may indicate an onset of a dental problem:
 
• Red and swollen gums 
• Brown or grey teeth 
• Broken or loose teeth  
• Pawing the face or rubbing on objects 
• Abnormal drooling
• Dropping things from the mouth        
• Reduced grooming in cats  
• Swelling in areas surrounding the mouth 
• Bad Breath 
• Bleeding gums 
• Avoiding hard foods or chew toys 
 
Due to the constant pain or irritation in mouth, some pets may experience behavioural changes like being agitated or going completely tranquil. Such symptoms should prompt an immediate visit to the vet.
  
Causes of dental issues
 
There can be many reasons for dental problems in your pet, such as:
 
• Injury 
• Periodontal disease 
• Dental abscess or infected teeth
• Oral cysts or tumours 
• Misaligned teeth or jaw
• Cleft Palate
 
Periodontal disease is a common dental condition in dogs and cats, caused by infections and inflammation of gums and bones that support teeth. During the early stages, gums become swollen and red, and may even bleed. Early detection of such diseases is crucial for pet parents to introduce effective preventive measures; else, the disease may advance and become a serious problem for your pet, causing tooth loss, bleeding, swollen, and painful gums, and abscesses. Sometimes, it can also contribute to kidney, liver, and heart problems.
 
Keep your pet’s teeth clean 
 
Pets may suffer from dental problems from a young age, and if left untreated such oral issues can cause a serious damage. Here is a list of some dental care practices you should follow to prevent such problems:
 
• Regular brushing 
 
Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly is one of the most important and effective ways to prevent tartar and plaque buildup. If you don’t want your pet to have bad breath, red gums or loose teeth, investing time into brushing their teeth regularly. Choosing good quality dental care products like Petosan Double Headed Toothbrush and Petosan Toothpaste would be a smart choice.  It is recommended to brush your pets teeth thrice a week to maintain healthy teeth, but if they are suffering from any infection or periodontal disease, they might need brushing daily.
 
• Oral hygiene solutions 
 
Dogs can cats can be finicky while getting their teeth brushed. Using oral rinse is a great way to maintain dental hygiene in pets. To prevent infections and have pleasant-smelling mouth of your pet, try using PlaqueAway.
 
• Dental treats 
 
Dental treats are uniquely shaped and textured chews that are designed to prevent tartar or plaque buildup. The active ingredients in these treats aid in the prevention of potential dental issues. There are many dental treats available in the market like- Prozym Dental Sticks, Earth Bites, and Greenies. Whimzees dental treats are for pets with an aversion to meat.
 
• Chew toys 
 
Chew toys are a great way to keep your pet’s dental health in check without creating a mess from the crumbs of the treats. They are also good for pets that finish dental treats quickly.
 
• Regular Vet checks 
 
Along with everything listed above, a regular visit to your vet for a thorough dental check is also important. Visiting a vet regularly will help diagnose and treat any underlying dental issues beforehand. 
  
Dos and Don’ts of brushing your pet’s teeth:
 
• Don’t use a human-grade toothpaste for your pet 
• Make them familiar with the toothbrush before trying to brush their teeth 
• Perform a dental care regime at least once a week at home 
• Don’t force your pet for brushing their teeth if they resist 
• Don’t miss out on their regular teeth cleaning visits 
 
Bottom Line,
 
It is easy to avoid serious dental problems by following a consistent dental cleaning routine discussed here. Healthy dental practices will ensure a healthy and happy life for your pet.
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Save More With The Easter Special Supersaver Sale!

It is time to decorate Easter eggs, Easter bakes, Easter egg hunts, bunny hopping, and saving with our Easter Special Supersaver Sale!

Easter is a time for celebration and it is even more meaningful with your furry family members. Discountpetcare has a wide range of products, from flea & tick preventives to all pet care supplies including dietary supplements, grooming products, joint care, dental care, toys and treats for your pets are available with us. To add to this happiness we are offering discounts on various products.

Avail Discounts with the Easter Special Supersaver Sale!

On Discountpetcare, promotions are not reserved only for Christmas; we are dedicated to providing you and your pet with all the essential supplies at any time of the year! So, while you’re excited to decorate the Easter eggs, make sure to visit Discountpetcare so you don’t miss out on the fantastic deals! 

  • The Easter Special Supersaver Sale will be live on April 7, 2023.
  • The sale will only be available for purchases made on DiscountPetCare.
  • Get a 5% off on selected products only.
  • Free Shipping.

Subscribe to Discountpetcare’s newsletters to remain updated on such incredible deals and special offers. Discountpetcare’s Easter Special Supersaver Sale is a marvellous chance for pet parents to stock up on regular treatments and buy their pet a gift; everything while saving big! This will surely make your pet happy and healthy!

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10 Helpful Tips On Caring For Your Heartworm Positive Dog

“Heartworm-positive” is something a dog owner would never want to hear about their dog. Fortunately, a majority of heartworm-positive dogs can be treated successfully with advances in pet medicine. And, with additional love and care, you can help your pet feel better and recover better during this fight.

This blog covers useful tips on caring for a dog with heartworms during and after the treatment to help them deal with this devastating disease.

1. Strictly Limit Physical Activity

The most difficult yet important requirement for heartworm-positive dogs is to strictly implement restrictions on their exercise or other strenuous activities. Dogs infected with heartworms have compromised heart and lungs, and hence, they are at a high risk of serious and fatal complications, including heart failure

2. Keep Your Dog on Leash

Physical exercise is absolutely not recommended for dogs with heartworm, but even if you take them in your backyard, keeping them on a leash is one effective way of making sure they don’t exert themselves physically. You must also keep them on a leash while taking them to urinate or defecate.

3. Battle Boredom Indoors

Confining your dog indoors and restricting their physical activity may leave them bored and irritated. Therefore, you must look for ways to fight indoor boredom. You can consider giving them chew toys to keep them busy and replace their outdoor time with affection by keeping them close to you while you read or watch TV. You can also make their mealtime fun with slow-feeder toys.

4. Encourage Maximum Rest

We definitely don’t want a heartworm-infected dog to run out in response to a quick stimulus like a bird or squirrel. Avoid distractions like human and pet visitors to prevent them too excited or physical. Moreover, encourage maximum rest to keep your dog calm and to help them recover faster.

5. Manage Your Space

Dogs may have those impulsive zoomies at any time, which increases their heart rate and blood pressure. To restrain them from running around and reduce those zoomies, cover up the extra space in your house to stop them from getting into a sprint. You can make such areas inaccessible to your dog with the help of baby gates.

6. Use Calming Supplements

One of the most crucial duties a pet owner has during heartworm treatment is to keep their treated dog calm and quiet. Consider using calming supplements for your dog to deal with these challenging times, as these supplements help deal with anxiety and keep them restful.

7. Provide a Safe Environment

Keeping your dog’s environment in check is very important when they are going through this rough patch in life. Maintain a dry, stable, and clean environment for them. This will also reduce the chances of further infestations. Do not take your dog out when it’s hot. Keep fresh drinking water and food available for them at all times.

8. Watch For Symptoms of Complications

When your dog is going through a heartworm treatment, it is necessary to be vigilant of any cautioning signs. Watch out for symptoms like frequent coughing, inappetence, fever, nose bleeds, lameness, blood in the urine, heavy panting, or anything that you think is unusual. Notify your veterinarian as soon as possible to prevent complications.       

9. Stablize Your Dog with Regular Treatment

Once a dog is diagnosed with heartworm disease, they need extra care from you and your veterinarian. During these times, help your dog stabilize with regular treatments, therapies, and other medications as directed by the vet. Dogs with heartworms may be prescribed antibiotics to prevent secondary infections and supplements to help the liver tolerate medicines and dead worms.

10. Post Heartworm Treatment Care

Critical care is extremely important even if your dog has been successfully treated. Dogs treated with heartworm disease must be kept on strict rest for at least a month or till the vet suggests. It is better to be overly concerned and to closely monitor any post-treatment complications.  Also, remember that successful heartworm treatment does not deny the possibility of future infestations. Therefore, it is essential to keep your dog on a good heartworm-preventative treatment like Heartgard Plus or NexGard Spectra.

Bottom Line

Most dogs respond well to heartworm treatment. Although it seems like a long journey, it goes by quickly with extra care and compassion. The heartworms will vanish quickly, allowing your dog to have a healthy, active life once again. And, most importantly, do not forget to keep your dog active on an effective heartworm-preventative treatment!

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Parvovirus In Dogs: Everything You Need To Know

Canine Parvovirus is an extremely contagious virus which can affect dogs of all age groups. Among those, puppies younger than four months of age and unvaccinated dogs are at the highest risk. Canine parvovirus, commonly known as “parvo” is one of the most serious diseases dogs can get. However, it is preventable with proper vaccination.

This blog will provide you with everything you need to know about parvovirus in canines, how you can detect illness, signs of the disease, and things you need to do if your dog is infected with the virus. Read the blog to know more.

What is Parvovirus?

Parvo in dogs and puppies is caused by the canine parvovirus. The virus is extremely contagious, which spreads either by direct contact with an infected dog or by a contaminated object. Your canine is exposed to the virus every time it encounters other dogs, consumes infected feces, or even when it sniffs or licks.

Your dog can indirectly get the transmission when someone who has been in contact with an infected dog meets your puppy, or your dog touches a contaminated object like a bowl, collar, leashes, or food.

This virus infects a dog’s small intestine destroying the cells and hampering the absorption and disrupting the gut. It also affects the bone marrow and sometimes affects the canine heart as well.

Causes of Parvo

Parvo is one of the most contagious diseases in dogs which spreads rapidly. It is not an airborne disease. The virus can be found on various surfaces.

 

Canine Parvovirus is escalated by contaminated objects like feces, bowls, collars, and leashes. The virus can survive on the ground surface, on clothes, in kennels and on many other objects. Moreover, your puppy can carry the virus on their fur and paws after encountering an infected dog or an infected object.

Common Signs of Parvo in Dogs

A dog infected with parvo is a sick dog that shows a variety of symptoms. It is vital that you detect these symptoms and get your canine to a vet. Here’s a list of possible signs of a parvo-infected dog:

  • Fever
  • Lethargy
  • Vomiting
  • Weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Blood in feces
  • Diarrhea
  • Dehydration

If you see one or more of these symptoms, rush to a veterinarian. Be sure to inform the vet clinic staff about the possible illness so they can follow precautionary measures and prevent the disease from spreading to other dogs.

Diagnosis

A dog’s history of illness, physical examination and laboratory tests can help suspect the Parvovirus infection in dogs. Fecal tests of suspected dogs can help confirm the diagnosis of canine parvovirus.

Treatment

There is no specific drug or a determined line of treatment for parvo-infected dogs. However, your veterinarian can provide supportive treatment until your dog’s immune system fights the virus.

Early treatment should be able to combat dehydration by electrolyte infusion to cover up fluid and nutrition loss, controlling diarrhea and vomiting and preventing secondary infection with antibiotics at the same time.

Once your dog reaches the recovery phase, talk to your veterinarian and ask for the appropriate post-treatment steps you need to follow in your household.

Prevention of Parvo in Dogs

Parvo virus infection can be prevented. All adult dogs, puppies and breeding dogs should receive their parvo vaccinations. It is necessary to ensure that all the dogs in your household receive their parvo vaccines.

Practice precaution while socializing puppies and not allow puppies to meet unvaccinated dogs.

In the End

Canine parvovirus is a serious illness. But with appropriate attention, care and treatment, you can help your dog overcome the disease. Be sure that you follow your veterinarian’s instructions all the time; vaccinate your puppy against parvo and all other serious illnesses.

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Kitten Teething: What Every Cat Lover Needs to Know

While young people must wait years to lose all of their baby teeth and have their adult teeth emerge, kittens go through the teething process much more swiftly. Before they reach their sixth month of age, cats really go through two sets of teeth.

As a result, kittens experience teething twice throughout their lives: once for their set of 26 baby teeth and once more when their 30 adult teeth erupt. While a kitten may experience some soreness as their sharp new teeth erupt from their gums during the teething process, most kittens do not experience pain. As they go through the teething phase, kittens will not chew as haphazardly as puppies do.

Do you think your kitten has started chomping on everything in sight—including your arm? She is teething, and her adult teeth are beginning to appear. Here are all the answers to your questions regarding the developing pains of your young tiger.

When do kittens start teething?

Your kitten’s first stage of teething begins when she gets her deciduous teeth between the ages of two and six weeks. Although the eruption of the baby teeth is typically quite uneventful, you might notice the kittens nibbling on their toys more than normal.

When the adult teeth erupt, it is when teething really gets going. This typically begins at three months of age, and by six or seven months, all of the adult teeth are in place.

How to determine if your kitty is teething?

The following are some indications that your kitty has started the teething process:

Signs Your Kitten Is Teething

Missing teeth: You might find missing teeth on your floor or you might never find them at all. Fear not; swallowing baby teeth is typical in cats and poses no health risks.

Pawing at Mouth: Your kitten may be trying to remove a loose tooth by shaking its head and pawing at the mouth.

Excessive Chewing: The strain from the teeth erupting is relieved to some extent by increased chewing.

Irritating Behaviour: Due to their painful mouth and gums, kittens are sometimes more irritable and grouchy.

Appetite suppression: If your kitten’s hunger has decreased, try feeding them canned food, which is much simpler for them to chew.

Gum Bleeding: You can notice blood specks in their food or drink bowls due to slight gum bleeding.

Sensitive Face: It refers to how sensitive their face is to touch.

Less Grooming: Reduced grooming behaviour is a common indicator that your cat’s mouth hurts.

How you can help your teething kitten feel better?

Fortunately, you have a range of solutions for relieving your teething kitten’s discomfort. You might try to:

  • Offer soft food, like as kibble soaked in warm water or a tinned diet.
  • Make sure she has a lot of interactive playtime with you so that she can be entertained and worn out.
  • Prepare some low-sodium chicken broth or diluted tuna juice in the form of ice cubes for her to play with and chew on. The ice will calm the gums’ irritation. This is particularly well-liked when it’s scorching outside!
  • Give your pet safe chew toys and cat grass for snacking.

The majority of pain is mild and should go away on its own. Make sure to call your veterinarian in case of severe pain. Never administer drugs intended for adult cats or other animals to your kitten! Always speak with your veterinarian before administering any cat dental care products.

When is it necessary to see the vet?

When adult teeth begin to erupt and baby teeth are still present, it can result in issues including fractured teeth and alignment issues. Watch out for signs of dental crowding, such as the presence of two rows, in their mouths.

Red, swollen gums with discharge are one sign of an infection in your kitten’s mouth, and this condition has to be treated by a veterinarian.

Bottom Line

Make sure to shower your cat with lots of affection, support, and patience when these new teeth erupt because they might not manage the teething process well. In general, trust your instincts, and if you have any concerns as a pet parent, call to make an appointment at your local veterinary clinic.

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Sunburn in Dogs & How to Prevent it

Yes! Dogs are also susceptible to sunburns. If you are planning beach days or hiking trips with your dog, sunburn is not something to ignore. Sunburn in dogs can be very painful, and it may increase the risk of skin cancer.

Protecting your dog from sunburns and treating them promptly will reduce their discomfort and make sure that appropriate care is being taken.

Can Fur Protect Dogs From Sunburn?

Generally, it is believed that dogs cannot be sunburnt as they have protective fur. However, the fur isn’t impenetrable, and the skin beneath it is very sensitive, and some areas on the dog’s body are vulnerable to sunburn, like their:

  • Nose
  • Ears
  • Eyelids
  • Belly
  • Lips
  • Tip of the tail

Furthermore, certain dog breeds are prone to sunburn. If you have any of these types of dogs, you must stay alert during the summer.

Short-haired breeds: Dogs with naturally thin coats are more exposed to the sun than those with thick furs. Dog breeds with thin coats, such as Dalmatians, Boxers, and Greyhounds, are therefore, more exposed to sunburn.

Hairless dog breeds: Dogs without a coat are unguarded from sunburns as their skin is directly exposed to the sun. Hairless dog breeds such as Chinese Crested, Peruvian Hairless Dogs, and Xolos are unsheltered from the sun.

Dogs with fair skin: Any dog breed with white, light, or ginger-colored coats tends to have fair or pink skin underneath. Such skin makes dogs like Australian Sheepdogs, Samoyeds, and Maltese must be protected from getting sunburned.

What Are the Symptoms of Sunburn in Dogs?

If you are aware of the signs of sunburn in dogs, you can provide prompt treatment to your dog if the scenario occurs. Be watchful of the following signs:

  • Pink or red irritated skin
  • Dry or flaky skin
  • Painful blisters
  • Curling up of the edges of ears
  • Hair loss/bald patches
  • Skin ulcers/skin infections
  • Whimpering or shrinking away while touching
  • Fever in severe cases

How to Protect Your Dog from Sunburn?

If you’re planning to head out with your pooch on sunny days, here are some easy tips to prevent your dog from getting sunburned.

  • Avoid taking your dog out during the hottest times of the day.
  • Use a dog sunscreen cream or spray and reapply it every few hours.
  • Cover up your dog with protective goggles, a sun hat, and UV wear for dogs.
  • Protect your dog’s paws with dog boots.
  • Do not shave completely as the fur serves as insulation to stop the heat from getting in.
  • Do not leave your dog outdoors. If necessary, ensure that they have access to shade.

Do not let the Australian summers take a toll on your pooch’s well-being. Taking care of these simple things can help you make the best memories with your dog this holiday season. So, go on and enjoy good times, sunshine, and summertime with your furry friend!

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Tips On What To Do When Your Cat Won’t Eat

Cats are known to have finicky behavior, which is seen in their feeding habits. Rejecting food, smelling it before eating, or nibbling it before consuming is a normal reaction you get from a cat. Sometimes cats can even reject food that they have been eating for a while; this is because as they age their tastes change. All of these behavioral patterns are normal till your cat is eventually eating. Skipping multiple meals, or refusing to eat at all, is a sign of trouble.

Refusing to eat for a long time can lead to weight loss, weakness, kidney, liver, or other organ damage, and cause other health issues. It becomes important to recognize why your cat has stopped eating and figure out ways to fix the problems to ensure normal feeding behavior.

Why won’t your cat eat?

There can be many reasons why your cat refuses to eat. Let’s understand the reasons after which we can figure out how to make them eat more-

Illness: Various illnesses, especially the ones related to the digestive system can make your feline lose their appetite.

Territoriality or Bullying: Cats are aggressively territorial, so if you introduce a new feline to the ones already living in a space, they might scare the newcomer. Sometimes a more docile cat can get intimidated and is unable to eat in the presence of a more hostile feline.
 
Oral Problems: Injuries in the mouth, broken teeth or damaged gums, tongue or lip can make your cat refuse to eat as they might be in pain.
 
Food Changes or Spoilage: Cats have sensitive senses; they can notice the change in their meals or recognize if the food is spoilt. Some cats are pickier than others and may refuse new food or take time to adjust to unfamiliar textures, smells, and tastes.

Change in routine: Cats are accustomed to their routines and even a small change in those can trigger them. Any change like traveling, moving to a new house, remodeling an old house, or even changing the feeding location can cause anxiety in your cat, and they might refuse to eat for a while.

What can you do?

As we’ve seen there can be many reasons why your cat might refuse to eat. So as cat parents it’s our responsibility to figure out ways to make them eat. Here are some steps you can take to make sure that your feline is eating properly.

  • The first step is making sure that your cat is not ill. If they seem weak, nauseous, or show other symptoms of some disease, the best option is to get them checked by a veterinarian.
  • When an illness is not the culprit you can move to other options, like offering their favorite food to prompt eating. Mixing a few cat special treats can make your cat more eager to eat.
  • Add more flavor to their food with a splash of anchovy, tuna, or salmon juice. Cats can be avoiding eating simply because they don’t like it, so make sure to give them food from different cat food brands and of other flavors to circle out a favorite.
  • If you have recently changed their feeding area, restore the original one, so that your cat can return to a normal feeding pattern.
  • Help to calm your cat in anxious situations. While introducing to a new clutter, keep your cat’s feeding station in a different place, until everyone is used to being around each other.
  • Similarly, take steps to alleviate other stresses that could be affecting their feeding.

Take measures to ensure proper feeding if your cat misses more than two consecutive meals. If you see any signs of illness, discomfort, stress, or abrupt changes take action or consult a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. With proper affection and care, you can encourage better mealtime habits and give your cat a healthy and nutritious diet.

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Christmas Sale On Pet Supplies

Christmas is just around the corner; finally, the best time of the year is here! It is a festival that is celebrated with friends and family, and each family has their traditions. Being home with a furry- family member, Christmas is more fun and enjoyable with feasts, ugly sweaters, putting up Christmas trees, opening gifts, and many more such things.
 
The time right before Christmas is dedicated to preparing for it all, buying presents and decorating trees take the topmost priorities. This also makes it the perfect time to get something special for the extra-special family member; your fur-baby will surely love the lovely gift you would get them. 
 
There are many things that you can do or buy for your pet; some of them are listed below;
 
Buy delightful treats like tasty chicken sticks and the healthy dental treats.
Buy new toys like chew toys or plushes.
Get them their regular treatments for heartworms, intestinal worms, fleas and ticks.
Wish your pet a healthy life by gifting them great supplements, these will provide your pet with all the necessary nutrients.
Grooming is an essential part of keeping hygiene health, buy shampoos that helps in cleaning and smell amazing.

If you’re confused about what to gift your pet, look no further; we understand your dilemma and have put out special offers and beautiful discounts at DiscountPetCare. Just for you!
 
Get 10% Off on selected products + free shipping and Up to 40% on pet food and treats from 16th December to 25th December; use the coupon SANTAPAW

Other ways you can celebrate this holiday with your pets is, by bringing into your home pet-friendly Christmas trees and enjoying decorating them with your pet. You can also prepare customized Christmas cards that make your pet’s friends also feel included in this fun holiday tradition. Moreover, as we all know that pets are susceptible to loud noises; this is why making loud noises or comforting your pet during fireworks should be a precaution you must take during Christmas. 

With Christmas approaching fast, you can get all the excellent pet care supplies at the lowest prices. Buy them now! Let this Christmas leave you with a stronger relationship with your pet.

Wish you and your pet Merry Christmas from DiscountPetCare Family!

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