Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” sequence, the place each Monday we carry skilled recommendation straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to assist our readers higher perceive their cat’s well being and well-being.
Whether or not you’re a brand new pet dad or mum or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is right here to supply solutions to your most urgent questions. From vitamin ideas and preventive care to troubleshooting widespread behavioral points, Dr. Paola is able to provide insights that may hold your kitty joyful, wholesome, and feline high-quality. Keep tuned for skilled steerage on a spread of subjects that matter most to you and your cat, so you may make knowledgeable selections and supply the absolute best care in your furry companion.
Have a query? Ship it in right here!
Assist! My Cat Has Bumps & Scabs!
“Pricey Dr. Paola,
Daisy is a 4-year-old, indoor cat and by no means goes exterior, she is a bit obese however not overweight. She has some bumps on her again close to the bottom of her tail which can be like pimples with scabs and has began to have dandruff. She doesn’t appear to be itching them however I can see that they irritate some as a result of I’ve seen her take a look at the world and transfer prefer it bothers her. I believe it’s a weight loss plan downside however I don’t know. She solely eats dry meals however good high quality, Blue Buffalo, Iams, and so on. Would a complement be so as? What may she be lacking?” – William
Hello William! Daisy’s bumps, scabs, and dandruff close to the bottom of her tail might have a number of causes. Flea allergy is a standard situation, even for indoor cats, as fleas can discover their method inside. If she isn’t on flea prevention, I’d suggest discussing this along with your vet.
Her weight loss plan may play a job. Dry-only diets can lack hydration and omega-3 fatty acids, each necessary for pores and skin well being. Your vet might suggest including a cat-safe omega-3 fish oil complement and incorporating moisture-rich, species-appropriate meals may help enhance her pores and skin and coat. It’s finest to have your vet verify her to rule out allergy symptoms, infections, or different points. You’re doing nice by paying shut consideration to her indicators!
Finest needs!
Dr. Paola
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Assist! My Cats Fur is Thinning!
“Pricey Dr. Paola,
We’ve been caring for a feral cat (Oscar) for a number of years. He’s gotten pleasant solely with us for the previous yr. We observed skinny areas on his fur, totally on the perimeters close to the backbone. We thought it was from him rubbing alongside brick steps. We’ve noticed him utilizing his tooth to tug fur out after grooming the world. We don’t suppose there’s any fungus or mites that’s inflicting this as he doesn’t trouble the world as soon as the fur is pulled out. Might he have nervousness? What could be achieved about it if he does have that? Thanks” – Susie
Hello Susie, it’s heartwarming to listen to how a lot care you’ve given to Oscar. Ferals are wild creatures and don’t typically get pleasant to people, congratulations on profitable him over. You’re prone to be the one ones of our species he realized to not run away from. Congratulations in your persistence and persistence.
The fur thinning and pulling you’ve observed may very well be stress-related, nevertheless it’s necessary to rule out different causes, similar to allergy symptoms, pores and skin irritations, or ache from underlying points like arthritis. Cats typically overgroom as a method to deal with discomfort, whether or not bodily or emotional.
If nervousness is the trigger, environmental components like a constant routine, secure areas, and calming pheromone diffusers (e.g., Feliway) which you would need to put as a collar might assist, though it can probably be a problem to place and monitor. I’m assuming you’re feeding him so guaranteeing he’s on a high-quality weight loss plan with omega-3 fatty acids may help his pores and skin well being. A vet go to could be key to rule out different medical issues and discover choices like dietary supplements or nervousness treatment if wanted. Nevertheless, that might contain a transport field. Your attentive care is making an actual distinction for him!
Sincerely,
Dr. Paola
Assist! My Cat Is Constipated!
“Pricey Dr. Paola,
My (senior) cat Meeshu will get constipated once in a while, and I give her a small quantity of Miralax. Sure, I learn about Lax-a-tone, however she gained’t have something to do with it—whether or not I put it on her paw or combine it in her meals. My query is, how a lot Miralax ought to I give her? She’s 19 years previous and doesn’t weigh a lot. Thanks!”
– Vicki
Congratulations on the unimaginable care you’ve given Meeshu! At 19 years previous, she’s surpassed the common cat’s lifespan, which really displays your dedication and love.
Constipation in senior cats, like Meeshu, typically outcomes from points similar to dehydration, arthritis making it onerous for her to posture, or age-related slowing of her digestive system. Consider her gastrointestinal tract like an older automotive engine, it wants a bit further care and the appropriate “gas” to maintain issues working easily. Whereas Miralax is usually used to handle constipation in cats, I can’t safely suggest a dosage, since we don’t have a direct doctor-patient relationship. A veterinarian who is aware of her well being historical past is the very best particular person to find out the most secure and best method, and with senior cats, this tailor-made care is particularly necessary.
Within the meantime, there are steps you may take to help her digestion. Hydration is vital, very similar to conserving oil in that engine. Strive providing a number of water stations, including low-sodium broth to her meals, or specializing in moist meals to spice up her water consumption. Introducing a small quantity of plain canned pumpkin (with out components) is like including fiber to her system, serving to issues transfer extra effectively. Simply you’ll want to introduce any modifications regularly to keep away from upsetting her abdomen.
You’re doing an unimaginable job, and Meeshu is so fortunate to have you ever championing her well being and happiness in her golden years!
This text is part of our weekly Ask Dr. Paola sequence
