My Pet Ate Chocolate...What Now?

Most pet parents are aware that chocolate is toxic, but did you know that it's the amount and type of chocolate that determine the toxicity? While one small chocolate chip from one cookie is not a problem for your pet, certain types of chocolate are very toxic - this includes everything from a pure chocolate bar to chocolate-flavored sweets.

Why is chocolate toxic to my pet?

Chocolate is a mixture of cocoa beans and cocoa butter. In its various forms, chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are both classified as methylxanthines. While humans have the ability to metabolize methylxanthines quickly, our pets ability to metabolize methylxanthines can be 20 times slower - which can result in a toxic overdose.

The amount of methylxanthines present in chocolate varies with the type of chocolate. One key fact to remember is the darker and/or more bitter the chocolate, the more toxic it could be. 

What types of chocolate are toxic?

The simple answer is all types of chocolate can be toxic to a pet. However, certain types of chocolate carry a higher toxicity

than others. 

Baker's chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and gourmet dark chocolates are more dangerous than milk chocolate. White chocolate has very little theobromine and is least likely to cause chocolate poisoning in pets.

Signs of Chocolate Poisoning

When small amounts of chocolate are ingested, common symptoms may include mild vomiting and diarrhea in pets. However, when larger amounts of chocolate are ingested, common symptoms may include:

• hyperactivity
• restlessness
• lethargy
• increased thirst
• increased urination
• tachycardia (elevated heart rate)
• tremors
• seizures
• collapse

What should I do if I suspect my dog ate chocolate?

If you know your pet has ingested chocolate, or if your pet is showing any of the listed symptoms of chocolate poisoning, contact a veterinarian, or the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-800-213-6680 right away!

How to Keep Your Cat Calm during Fireworks

When it comes to fireworks festivities, we often think about how fearful and sensitive dogs are to the loud noises – but we rarely think that cats share this same noise phobia. If your cat has ever hid, vocalized, or acted strange at the sound of fireworks, thunder, or any other loud noise, here are some great ways you can help alleviate their noise phobia.

• If you find that your cat has taken cover on top of a cupboard or underneath a piece of furniture – leave him or her alone! Your cat has deemed this ‘bolthole’ a secure zone and coaxing him or her out will only make the experience more stressful.

• On the evenings you expect fireworks, ensure your cat is safely inside and away from all excitement areas. Remember to secure all doors, windows, and cat flaps; and draw curtains to reduce the noise from outside. If you can, periodically check on your cat to make sure he or she is safely tucked in.

• Try plugging a Feliway^® Diffuser in the room where the cat spends most of their time, at least 48 hours before the festivities. This pheromone therapy will increase his or her sense of security.

• Make sure your cat is microchipped. Cats have a tendency of running when they become frightened or confused. If your cat is already microchipped, make sure all of your information is up to date by contacting your pet’s microchip provider.

• Ensure your cat is provided with a litter tray both before and during the firework season. Like humans, increased anxiety can cause pets to urinate and defecate more frequently. 

Photo Courtesy of Petfleas.co.uk

Resource: http://www.catbehaviorassociates.com/seven-safety-tips-for-memorial-weekend/

6 Ways To Celebrate Earth Day With Your Pet

Happy Earth Day!  Across the nation, people everywhere are pitching in to help celebrate Mother Nature by creating a more sustainable planet. But no celebration is complete without sharing it with your best friend. Here are some fun ways you can celebrate Earth Day (or any day!) with your pet:

Spring Cleaning: Declutter, clean, and organize all those dark corners of your home; and consider giving your local shelters and rescues a call, to see if they are in need of any of your pet’s old bedding, leashes, or toys.

Cook an Eco-Friendly Meal: If you have space, consider growing your own garden of fresh fruits and veggies to add to your pet’s diet. Before using insecticides, research mulching and other garden practices to reduce the amount of chemicals used in your garden. Click here for a list of pet-friendly fruits and vegetables; and remember to always consult with your veterinarian before trying a new recipe for your pet.

Boycott Bottles: Give your pet filtered tap water instead of buying plastic bottled water. For commuting - opt for a BPA-free water bottle to refill; and if you must use a plastic bottle, always recycle!

Go for a Hike: Dogs love being outdoors! Hit the trails with your pup and enjoy nature's beauty together. Click here for a list of dog-friendly trails in your neighborhood.

Cut Back: Make small changes to reduce your and your pet’s carbon footprints. Walk your dog to the park instead of driving there. Towel dry or air dry your freshly bathed pet, instead of reaching for the blow dryer. Or cut down on paper products by cleaning small messes with rags or recycled paper towels.

Are you and your pet doing something special for Earth Day?

Tell us about it in the comments!

Safe Hallowe'en for your Pets

Halloween can be a really fun holiday for humans, especially for youngsters. In all the busyness of putting up decorations, buying candy, and making costumes, do you think about how this holiday affects your pets? It can be a major upheaval and stressor in their lives. Here are some tips to make it a little easier for them.

Dangerous Ingestion
Keep the candy locked away. Many types of candy can be fatal to pets. Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, raisins, and artificial sweeteners can cause things like low blood glucose levels, liver damage and kidney failure. Foil wrappers can cause tears in the intestinal tract when ingested. If you're having an adult party, make sure alcohol is far away from your pets because just a little bit can kill. Put decorative items such as corn cobs and pumpkins out of reach, due to the high risk of intestinal obstruction when ingested.

Decoration Catastrophe
Pumpkins also can pose a fire risk, so it's a good idea to use artificial candles. I purchase mine at the dollar store. Wires and cords can be a problem if a pet becomes entangled, smoke machines can cause irritated eyes or even burns if you are using dry ice.

Uncomfortable Costumes
Some pets ham it up and love wearing their doggie Halloween costume (I'm assuming cats hate being dressed up). Unfortunately, they definitely don't all like the capes, hats, antlers and what-have-you that accompany the holiday, so don't force them to wear them. The first danger of a costume is the possibility of eating it. Eating a large piece or even a small piece of fabric can cause a blockage, and strings or tassels on costumes can get caught in intestines. A few days before Halloween, put the costume on your pet. See how he or she reacts. Doing it a couple days ahead of time will get the pet used to the costume before the excitement of the big day. Animals really can read our moods, and if you have some really excited children in the house, it may make things very scary.
Another danger of costumes comes from a HUMAN wearing a costume, even a human that the pet knows. The animal may attack or run away. Pursuing your retreating pet while wearing a costume may elicit a fight-or-flight response that can pose danger to human and animal alike.

Anxiety
The excitement of the holiday can translate to anxiety and confusion for your pet. Animals can dart out the front door when it's opened to greet trick-or-treaters. Doorbells being rung every 3 minutes make noise and are not a normal part of everyday life. One thing I do is put a note on the doorbell that says "Zombies ate the doorbell. Please knock." It dissuades people from ringing the bell. Taking your pet out on the town on Halloween can be especially dangerous, not only because of the high anxiety, but because sometimes people do not act like themselves hidden behind their costumes and may do careless things or drive when they shouldn't be driving. Keep your cats indoors, ESPECIALLY black cats. Black cats are at greater risk at this time of year to be harmed.

Don't forget clear and up-to-date ID tags. If your pet does run out the door and get lost, the ID on your pet will help make sure you are reunited. Take those extra precautions and keep your furry babies safe!

Rough Day?

You can't go wrong with this video.

Kitty Links

China: "Cat Army" being used to control rodent population.

It's sad to think about perfectly healthy, older kittens being passed over for younger ones. Yet it happens all the time. Go ahead and look for an older kitten the next time you want to adopt. Teenage kittens need love too

Did you know there are more cats as pets than dogs in the United States, yet there are fewer cat visits? Take your cat to the vet week!

It's difficult dealing with a cat that sprays or urinates outside their litterbox. More than the smell, it can put a tremendous strain on the people and other pets in the house. However, your kitty may be trying to tell you something. Kitty sending a message

This is the largest animal hoarding case I have ever heard of. The Humane Society of the United States went into a Florida home that portrayed itself as a country club sanctuary for cats. The owners were in way over their heads. Nearly 700 cats were seized

A Creative Solution

Check out Woody, who figured out a unique way to slow down the water from the faucet so he could take a drink. My favorite moment is at 1:57.

21st Century Cat Toys

Check out this silliness. On your iPad or Android you can download 3 free games for your CATS to play! Here's a video of them in action.

Thumbs and Toes

Dr. Wilson at our Willow Grove office saw 2 cats on Wednesday called “Thumbs” and “Toes”. They are 15 weeks old, came from a farm in New York, and were born polydactyl (poly- “many”, -dactyl “toed”), with extra toes. “Thumbs” has 22 toes and “Toes” has 25 toes. A normal amount of toes is 18 for a cat, 5 on each front paw and 4 on each back paw.

Why do these cats have extra toes? It’s really just a mutation, called a cat body-type mutation, and probably is caused by multiple genes, not just one. Usually, the mutation is not harmful in any way. Sometimes, kittens have some difficulty learning to walk, but when they get bigger they can learn to use their extra toes as thumbs, and they’ll open latches or catch objects with one paw. It is important to pay attention to how their claws grow, and make sure they stay trimmed so their claws do not grow into their skin.

Look at those crazy toes!

The most famous polydactyl cats belonged to Ernest Hemingway, who, while living in Key West, received a 6-toed cat from a sailor. He collected polydactyl cats and these days the Ernest Hemingway Home in Key West has been converted to a museum, where as many as 60 cats live and roam free, with the help and safety of Purr..fect Fence.

Polydactyl cats are excellent climbers due to their extra claws, and were common on ships because of their excellent rodent-control abilities. They were also considered good luck by the sailors. These cats are most common along the US East Coast, and in SW England and Wales.

Quick Tips from Esther

We have a groomer here at Rau named Esther Cheeves. She grooms any dogs up 85 pounds, and she gave me some quick tips for maintaining your dog's hair coat. All of these tips work for cats as well.

Get a Comb Use a quality metal pet comb to untangle fur. Pull it through slowly, making sure the comb touches the skin lightly, so you will be able to find any hair mats if they are there. Pay attention to behind the ears, under the collar, and under the armpits. You may also use a slicker-type brush, but it is not nearly as effective at catching mats. Esther uses a comb like the one pictured.Make Combing/Brushing a Regular Routine At least once a week, do a full-coat brushout. Place your dog on a non-skid mat on top of a table, bench, or any other flat surface. Stay next to them the whole time so they don't fall. Handle your dog's feet and touch its face, and make sure your comb touches the skin lightly as you brush. Be firm and gentle, and give treats and praise when the task is done. The younger you start, the easier it will all be, and a dog of any age can learn. For cats, many of them really enjoy being petted already, so moving to a comb from a hand will be only a small step for you.

Trim Nails For Healthy Feet When a pet's nails grow too long, not only can they catch on carpets, but they can change the way the paw hits the ground, and also grow into the paw pads. Use a sharp nail trimmer. If your pet's nail tips appear to be getting crushed when you attempt to cut, you need a sharper nail trimmer.

Keep Combing When it's Cold In the wintertime, it's fine to leave the coat long for insulation against the cold. However, the haircoat must be combed as regularly as in the other seasons. Matted fur is poor insulation and can even trap moisture, causing chills, and hair mats are also extremely uncomfortable, due to the pulling of the skin by the matted fur. If you want, it IS ok to bathe your pet in the winter. Just make sure he or she is dried off afterwards.

If you find any mats on your pet, the best bet is to take him or her to the groomer. Some people try to cut out mats and end up cutting their pet's skin. Once the mats are removed, you can maintain it much more easily.

Kitten vs. a scary thing

How spastically kittens move, and with a super cool modern soundtrack to boot!

Pets come with a price tag

Getting a new pet is such an exciting time in one’s life.  There’s so much joy added to your family when you add on.  Sometimes, though, people don’t think about the costs involved.  Even a “free” animal will not be free. 

If you had never had a pet before, there are quite a lot of things they need to stay healthy.  First of all, they need vaccines, bloodwork, flea and tick protection, and intact pets will need to spayed or neutered.  If you are interested in having your pet microchipped, that is an additional cost.  Add in the food you will be feeding, and it comes down to quite a bit. 

ASPCA has a handy chart to estimate costs (the food per year seems a bit low to me) and checkout Dogtime to compare various pet health insurance policies. Make sure you are prepared for the commitment of a new pet!

Amy S.

Your Aging Pet

"Why are you waking me up?"

The cat in the picture above was named Clyde. He was left in a box in the parking lot one July night in 2006, and we took him in. We didn’t know his age for sure, but he was probably about 15 years old. Our very first move for Clyde was to do blood work. We discovered that he was severely hyperthyroid, a disease that affects the thyroid glands in the neck. When the glands produce too much thyroxine hormone, the pet’s metabolism goes up too much and you will start to see weight loss, increased appetite, poor hair coat and frequent vomiting or diarrhea. Clyde was started on medication, and he had to have his blood work checked frequently. His thyroid went to a normal range, and he lived here for 3 ½ very happy and comfortable years.

Many people have heard the phrase “dog years”, and understand that their dog or cat ages faster than people. One thing to keep in mind when bringing your pet for their yearly visit is that they have aged approximately 4-7 animal years between veterinary visits. When they’re older, that can cause a lot of problems, which is why we recommend a checkup every 6 months. If we can check them every half year as opposed to every year, we can diagnose problems sooner.

One important aspect of caring for an older pet is remembering that they need a special diet, different from the one they ate as a younger adult or kitten. Senior pets have a tendency to gain weight, which can cause heart, lung, and joint problems to name a few. Weight gain also can lead to a shorter life span, and with cats especially, it can lead to diabetes. Some folks think they can feed their older pet less of the regular adult diet so they don’t gain weight, but this deprives them of vitamins, minerals and protein, which are vital. A general senior pet diet should be lower in calories and fat, and higher in fiber. All diet changes must be discussed with your veterinarian.

Some pets will start to eliminate waste in the house. Animals don’t know the concept ‘revenge’. If your pet is urinating right on the kitchen floor and looking at you, they are not saying, “I’m upset with you and this is payment for it.” They’re trying to tell you that something is wrong and since they can’t talk, they do things they normally wouldn’t do. The best thing to do is bring them in for a physical exam with blood work and urine test. The physical exam and blood work are equally important. The veterinarian will do the full physical and determine if there are any parts that hurt, while the blood work and urinalysis let us know what’s going on inside the body systems.

Pain really can be a cause of inappropriate elimination. If a pet has pain in their joints, especially their hips, they will avoid squatting, and hold in their bowel movement until they can’t hold it in anymore. For cats, sometimes the litter box sides are too high and they can’t get in and out. If their litter box is in the basement and they are too painful to walk down the stairs, they will find somewhere else to go.

Behavior changes can be common during the aging process, and some small changes can mean a lot, so always write down your concerns as you think of them, and bring them along to the visit with your veterinarian. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, because we are here to help.