Health and Wellness

29 Aug

The Importance of Cat Guardianship: Benefits and Responsibilities.

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By Janet Wormitt
2,065 Comments

Most cats are unplanned acquisitions, leading to a perception of a devalued pet compared to dogs. However, there are significant benefits to cat guardianship.

Good Intentions

Over 50% of cat owners unintentionally acquire their cats, with up to 70% not paying for them. This casual nature of adoption often results in a lack of planning, education and investment in proper care for the new long-term responsibility. New cat owners start with good intentions, but statistics show that despite 83% visiting the vet in the first year, over half never return. This could be due to a lack of awareness regarding the importance of regular maintenance check-ups or reluctance to spend on a bargain-acquired pet.

Pet ownership is a luxury, not a right. If unable to afford proper care, a person should reconsider having a pet in order to prevent possible neglect and suffering later. The average cost of owning a cat over a 15-year lifespan is estimated to be $25,000, excluding emergency care.

Unfortunately, we do see willful neglect by owners. Willful neglect is the conscious choice of ignoring a bad situation. Occasionally groomers will start to groom an already bad situation only to uncover something much, much worst. Neglecting a cat’s well-being and living conditions can lead to dire consequences. Regular grooming helps control shedding, hairballs, and uncovers suspicious changes for prompt veterinarian attention. Attempts at educating and professional advice are unfortunately often met with suspicion, resulting in repeated cycle of grooming emergencies.

Thriving Healthy Relationships

The importance of interaction, play, love, and grooming in cat ownership cannot be overstated. Interaction with your cat promotes a thriving, healthy relationship and prevents obesity, depression, and various ailments. In return, cats contribute to our health and well-being by reducing stress, anxiety, and the risk of stroke or heart disease. They also boost immunity, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and enhance sociability.

Despite cats being mostly unplanned additions to our households, they hold significant value. They provide companionship, love, entertainment, and numerous health benefits. The benefit of cats give us far exceed any possible monetary value.

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04 Nov

Understanding Feline Anal Gland Problems: Signs, Symptoms, and Solutions

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By Janet Wormitt
7,626 Comments

Introduction

Feline anal glands may be a gross topic, but recognizing the signs of potential problems early can save your cat from a trip to the vet.

Can Cats Have Anal Gland Issues?

While anal gland problems are commonly associated with dogs, cats can experience them too. All predators have oil sacs located at 4 and 8 o’clock around the anus. Skunks use them for defense, while cats and dogs use them for identification. Each time a stool passes, a small amount of oil is deposited, leaving a unique signature. This is why cats and dogs sniff each other’s rear ends in greeting.

What Causes Anal Gland Problems in Cats?

Sometimes these glands become clogged, leading to impaction. This can be due to a lack of fiber in the diet, dehydration, poor fitness, or genetic predisposition. Symptoms of a problem include:

  • “Scooting” (rubbing the bottom along the ground) often leaving a smelly smear on carpets
  • A pungent “fishy” smell
  • Biting or licking at the anus
  • Frequent, unproductive trips to the litter box

Recognizing and Treating Infections

If bacteria enter the glands, they can become swollen, red, and sore. Cats might avoid the litter box due to the pain. Often, what seems like a urinary problem can actually be an anal gland issue. If left untreated, the infection can develop into a painful abscess. The gland swells with pus and can burst, causing significant discomfort.

Professional Care and Prevention

An accredited cat groomer will check the anal glands during a bath. If there are signs of swelling or difficulty in draining the glands, the cat will be referred to a vet. It’s crucial to avoid attempting this yourself, as excessive force can cause damage or infection. Vets can drain infected glands and prescribe antibiotics. In chronic cases, surgery may be needed to remove the glands

Conclusion

Thanks for wading through this pungent but important topic about your cat’s health. Be thankful I didn’t include pictures!

If you found this article enlightening, be sure to check out Fat Cats Can’t Groom