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 father or mother or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is right here to supply solutions to your most urgent questions. From diet suggestions and preventive care to troubleshooting widespread behavioral points, Dr. Paola is able to supply insights that can maintain your kitty completely happy, wholesome, and feline nice. Keep tuned for skilled steering on a spread of subjects that matter most to you and your cat, so you can also make knowledgeable choices and supply the very best care to your furry companion.
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Assist! My Cat Has Bumps & Scabs!
“Pricey Dr. Paola,
Daisy is a 4-year-old, indoor cat and by no means goes outdoors, she is a bit of chubby however not overweight. She has some bumps on her again close to the bottom of her tail which might 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 have 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 would possibly 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 concern, even for indoor cats, as fleas can discover their manner inside. If she isn’t on flea prevention, I’d advocate discussing this together with your vet.
Her weight loss plan can also play a task. Dry-only diets can lack hydration and omega-3 fatty acids, each necessary for pores and skin well being. Your vet might advocate including a cat-safe omega-3 fish oil complement and incorporating moisture-rich, species-appropriate meals might help enhance her pores and skin and coat. It’s greatest to have your vet test her to rule out allergic reactions, infections, or different points. You’re doing nice by paying shut consideration to her indicators!
Greatest 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 12 months. We seen skinny areas on his fur, totally on the edges 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 hassle the world as soon as the fur is pulled out. Might he have nervousness? What will be finished 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 more likely to be the one ones of our species he discovered to not run away from. Congratulations in your persistence and persistence.
The fur thinning and pulling you’ve seen could possibly be stress-related, but it surely’s necessary to rule out different causes, corresponding to allergic reactions, pores and skin irritations, or ache from underlying points like arthritis. Cats typically overgroom as a manner to deal with discomfort, whether or not bodily or emotional.
If nervousness is the trigger, environmental components like a constant routine, protected areas, and calming pheromone diffusers (e.g., Feliway) which you would need to put as a collar might assist, though it is going to doubtless be a problem to place and monitor. I’m assuming you might be feeding him so guaranteeing he’s on a high-quality weight loss plan with omega-3 fatty acids can also assist his pores and skin well being. A vet go to can be key to rule out different medical issues and discover choices like dietary supplements or nervousness medicine 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 now and again, and I give her a small quantity of Miralax. Sure, I find out about Lax-a-tone, however she received’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 outdated and doesn’t weigh a lot. Thanks!”
– Vicki
Congratulations on the unimaginable care you’ve given Meeshu! At 19 years outdated, she’s surpassed the common cat’s lifespan, which actually displays your dedication and love.
Constipation in senior cats, like Meeshu, typically outcomes from points corresponding 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 of further care and the precise “fuel” to maintain issues working easily. Whereas Miralax is often used to handle constipation in cats, I can’t safely advocate 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 only strategy, and with senior cats, this tailor-made care is particularly necessary.
Within the meantime, there are steps you’ll be able to take to assist her digestion. Hydration is essential, 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 remember to introduce any adjustments step by step 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
