OK, I have some time this afternoon...give me your vet questions...

[Soph the vet]

I can probably respond to 4 or 5 per day. I love to answer medically related pet/livestock questions. Keeps my mind active.:001_smile:

[Laura R (FL)]

OK, sure! I have a new iguana rescue, but I have an exotics vet working with him right now. If you'd like to check that out, from a rescue story viewpoint, I have pics on my blog. He had the worst dermatitis I've ever seen on top of thermal burns. Maybe dry gangrene of the tail, and a broken toe (beginnings of MBD?) Anyway, the link is here:
http://zoo-momscience.blogspot.com/

Here's my question for you:
I have a 16yo cat and an 7yo cat, both with kidney disease. The older cat was diagnosed last year, and the younger cat was diagnosed 3-4 years ago. They both eat K/D and do fine on it. I've been thinking a lot about the holistic diet from Blue Buffalo, especially since the older cat has a cyst or tumor were his testicles used to be. In your opinion, what would be a better choice for these cats, staying on their prescription diet, or switching to a holistic diet with fresher enzymes and vitamins and that claims to be "kidney friendly"?

[Kelli in TN]

Mine is more behavior stuff.

Henry the Psycho Dog is a rescued stray. We don't know how he spent the first year of his life, but it probably was not good. We have worked hard to socialize him properly and he is for the most part a good dog.

Except when we have company over. When the doorbell rings he gets aggressive and territorial. We have to put him out or lock him up before we can answer the door.

What can we do to help him get over this? We have eliminated all of his other bad habits, how can we get rid of this problem?

Also, why do dogs get a mouthful of food from their dish, carry it to the dining room and eat it under the table?

[RoughCollie]

Is Flint River Ranch dog food as great as it sounds? We have a Rough Collie and I would like to maximize the quality of his diet. He won't eat raw meat, so the BARF diet is out of the question, and that's a good thing because I don't have time to deal with that.

Here's a link, in case you haven't heard of it:

http://www.flintriver.com/default.asp?gg=Y

Thanks,
RC

[PrairieAir]

Yeah! Here's the deal. We've got these "farm" cats, and dh says you don't take cats to the vet. After all, they're free. :thumbdown: One of the cats has patchy fur. At first it was just a few patches, and we thought he'd just gotten into a fight. Now the thinner patches of fur are all over, but they don't go clear down to the skin or look crusty or nasty. He does look a little smaller than some of his siblings. What might this be? How can I convince dh to let me take him to the vet? Or is there some kind of treatment I can try at home first? If it's mange, wouldn't the other cats be showing some signs of this? It's been about 3-4 weeks since he first started looking this way. Thanks for any advice you can give!

[Remudamom]

Oh boy, here's one I posted a while ago that I don't think you ever saw.

How long will it take my bottle baby foal to catch up with her half sisters? She's healthy, but just doesn't look as good as the others. And it's not weight either, I think she's where she should be weight wise. She is the smallest of all the 2007 crop, (except the Welsh foal) but then her dam was the smallest mare too.

It's more her coat, it just doesn't look as shiny as the others, and she still looks like a mountain goat with her winter coat. I wonder if it's just that she's out there without a momma to look after her. I have been bringing her in lately for some hay and feed to eat by herself, but she hates that, and won't eat unless I stay with her.

I was hoping she'd blend in with the crowd by the time they were all yearlings, but she's a sore thumb.

[JudoMom]

9 & 8 year old dogs of peeing on the corners in the house and the couch?

They have been cleaned thoroughly (the corners/couch). The dogs did this at the old house and our new house, and on the old couch and attempted to mark the new couch. They are fixed--one boy, one girl.

It's only the bedrooms/couch they mark, and it seems territorial. The older dog started after our first son was born and started with our bedroom.

They can't be in the house without being tied up because they sneak off and do this :banghead:. They are American Eskimos.

[Soph the vet]

OK, sure! I have a new iguana rescue, but I have an exotics vet working with him right now. If you'd like to check that out, from a rescue story viewpoint, I have pics on my blog. He had the worst dermatitis I've ever seen on top of thermal burns. Maybe dry gangrene of the tail, and a broken toe (beginnings of MBD?) Anyway, the link is here:
http://zoo-momscience.blogspot.com/

Here's my question for you:
I have a 16yo cat and an 7yo cat, both with kidney disease. The older cat was diagnosed last year, and the younger cat was diagnosed 3-4 years ago. They both eat K/D and do fine on it. I've been thinking a lot about the holistic diet from Blue Buffalo, especially since the older cat has a cyst or tumor were his testicles used to be. In your opinion, what would be a better choice for these cats, staying on their prescription diet, or switching to a holistic diet with fresher enzymes and vitamins and that claims to be "kidney friendly"?
I won't touch the iguana, thanks for not asking me to:ohmy:.
K/D is a great diet for kidney cats. Blue Buffalo may be fine too. I would compare the protein and sodium content of the diets. Kidneys that are in fragile health cannot handle a large amount of either. If you do decide to switch, do it gradually over a week's time. Once they are on the new diet for a month or so I would have their BUN and creatinine checked to see how their kidney function is comparing on the new diet.

[Ottakee]

Last week we adopted a 26 year old 15.3hh Quarter Horse gelding for my girls. He was used for therapeutic riding but needs more care than that facility can provide at this time.

He has only 7 viable teeth and needs about 300 pounds on him. Here is a picture of his body the day after we got him. Hard to tell his exact condition as he is very fuzzy--but should start shedding soon.

My question is, how fast should we be putting weight on him? What is the best method? He was being fed only once a day there. Now we are giving him a mixture of senior pellets, senior powder, beet pulp, and oils in a mash twice a day. Then at least 2 more times a day he is getting a mash of alfalfa pellets and beet pulp. So, he is getting fed 4 times a day. He has loose hay to nibble at as well but he mostly just quids that.

Any other hints for us?




I can probably respond to 4 or 5 per day. I love to answer medically related pet/livestock questions. Keeps my mind active.:001_smile:

[GothicGyrl]

Alright, I do have a question for you..

Pit Bull rescue--he's roughly 8-10 years old (was roughly 2 when we rescued him)--not abused by former owner, but abused by her dogs. Vet seen by her vet several times, taken care of as much as she was willing(dog actually belonged to her brother and he was the negligent one).

Had to have his right ear removed due to some type of tumor. I declined the tests due to cost, but DR though it was some sort of cystic tumor. He actually had two--one on his ear that caused the removal and one on the top of his head that the Vet said was "feeding" into the one on his ear (I'm serious, this thing looked like something straight out of a zombie flick)..He's not fixed and never been bred either.

Here is what the Vet did:
Total Bill:
6 month Heartguard: 42.30
Tumor Removal (gr. 2): 217.12 (that's his ear)
Anesthetic Package/Induction: 28.52
Intubation/General Anesthesia: 68.19
Biohazard Fee: 2.30
Pre-Surgical labs: 35.90
Heartworm, Lyme, Ehrlichia Test: 33.40
Some Drugs: 12.96
Home Pain Meds: 26.84
Home Antibiotics: 14.75
Tumor Removal (gr. 1): 115.35 (his head)

Total Dama....I mean Love Offering: $$$$597.63

Backstory--the night I got him, he was attacked by the former owner's bigger dog--AGAIN. He was chained, this dog wasn't. She was already treating him for a previous attack by this dog (incidentally, on that ear). He's been attacked twice after this by 2 other big dogs (he did not provoke, got the police report to prove it). He's NEVER attacked anyone, never bit anyone and honestly, if you saw him, he is the most stupidiest, thick headed, dumb blonde dog I have ever had. He is afraid of everything. BUT--he's also the best **** dog I've ever had :)

So we get the tumors removed. He recovers nicely. And now, just since his surgery (and whew! Here comes my question), he has started tearing up my trash and the crotches out of my clothes.

he has never done this before, ever! we've had him almost 8 years and he's never done this

It is only the small trash can under MY desk and only MY jeans crotches and underwear. He has chewed DH's shorts legs once. He touches nothing else!! Not even the kitchen trash that might have food in it.

He is self-regulated, in that we have one of those doggie feeders left out all the time for him and he eats only when he's hungry (good helping in the morning, a few minor nibbles in the afternoon and a good helping around our bed time). He's only 70lbs (vet told me he's still underweight, but I don't think so, this boy is stock solid. His tail WILL bruise you).

He loves Old Roy dog food but we just bought him Pedigree Adult Nutrition(which he loves, so it isn't dietary change--this dog loves fresh veggies and turkey). He is very active (OMG!) and gets lots of outdoor time and play time (he has his "babies" (stuffed animals) and loves to play with empty soda bottles).

Help? Why is he chewing just those things???

Help? I'm at my wits end here.

Mucho rep for helping.

[Soph the vet]

Mine is more behavior stuff.

Henry the Psycho Dog is a rescued stray. We don't know how he spent the first year of his life, but it probably was not good. We have worked hard to socialize him properly and he is for the most part a good dog.

Except when we have company over. When the doorbell rings he gets aggressive and territorial. We have to put him out or lock him up before we can answer the door.

What can we do to help him get over this? We have eliminated all of his other bad habits, how can we get rid of this problem?

Also, why do dogs get a mouthful of food from their dish, carry it to the dining room and eat it under the table?
The easier part of your question, taking food and eating elsewhere, I think is just idiosycrasy of many dogs. May be related to the "need to bury things" or maybe he had to compete for food prior to living at your home.
As for the company calling. Arrange for all of your expected company to bring a dog treat with them. When the doorbell rings have your dog on a leash where you can control him well. This may take two people for awhile, one to hold the dog and one to get the door. Once the company is inside and he is hopefully sitting next to the holder, have the company offer the treat if you feel it is safe to do so. Behavior modification takes many many weeks! Once he associates the doorbell and company with treats he may treat the company better. Some dogs will remain hopeless and need to be locked up for your company's sake.

[st_claire]

Cool. That's very nice of you to answer questions :)

Here's a few for you if you have time.

There seems to be a lot of controversy over raw food diets (also called BARF diets) for dogs. What are your thoughts?

Also, what sort of preventative care should a dog have ever year, and what items are not really needed unless there is a problem?

I've also heard of some people not getting their dogs vaccinated every year, saying they are healthier without the shots. Again, what are your thoughts on this practice?

Thanks so much :)

[Kelli in TN]

As for the company calling. Arrange for all of your expected company to bring a dog treat with them. When the doorbell rings have your dog on a leash where you can control him well. This may take two people for awhile, one to hold the dog and one to get the door. Once the company is inside and he is hopefully sitting next to the holder, have the company offer the treat if you feel it is safe to do so. Behavior modification takes many many weeks! Once he associates the doorbell and company with treats he may treat the company better. Some dogs will remain hopeless and need to be locked up for your company's sake.


What a great idea! I could purchase a bucket of treats for just that purpose!

Check your rep! I slung some to you!

[Soph the vet]

Is Flint River Ranch dog food as great as it sounds? We have a Rough Collie and I would like to maximize the quality of his diet. He won't eat raw meat, so the BARF diet is out of the question, and that's a good thing because I don't have time to deal with that.

Here's a link, in case you haven't heard of it:

http://www.flintriver.com/default.asp?gg=Y

Thanks,
RC
I looked at the ingredient list. Corn is not there which is a good thing. However wheat and chicken are main ingredients which can be allergens for some dogs. If your dog has no known allergies then I would say try this diet. I do not endorse raw diets as animals can contract salmonella and e. coli just as we can from raw meat so glad your dog won't eat it:001_smile:.

[Doran]

I can probably respond to 4 or 5 per day. I love to answer medically related pet/livestock questions. Keeps my mind active.:001_smile:


Thanks for such a sweet offer, Soph. You are very kind to share your knowledge with us.

What about a cat that licks his fur to the point of creating bald patches. His tummy is mostly bare now, and there are thinned spots all along his back, from about mid-torso (do cats have torsos?) to tail. I'm not keen on steroid shots and would like to try some other possibilities first. Diet perhaps? Also, I will do a better job of keeping up with flea treatments as I've been told it is likely an allergy to flea bites. Anything else I can try. What foods would you recommend?

Doran

[Soph the vet]

Yeah! Here's the deal. We've got these "farm" cats, and dh says you don't take cats to the vet. After all, they're free. :thumbdown: One of the cats has patchy fur. At first it was just a few patches, and we thought he'd just gotten into a fight. Now the thinner patches of fur are all over, but they don't go clear down to the skin or look crusty or nasty. He does look a little smaller than some of his siblings. What might this be? How can I convince dh to let me take him to the vet? Or is there some kind of treatment I can try at home first? If it's mange, wouldn't the other cats be showing some signs of this? It's been about 3-4 weeks since he first started looking this way. Thanks for any advice you can give!
If they are not crusty it might be pychogenic alopecia, fancy name for "hair-pulling neurotic cat". Usually these cats are stressed about something which causes self-trauma. Another possibility is fungus. Some cats will be subclinical carriers and never show signs, others may have what you are describing. A skin scrape and fungal culture would be good tests to do. Could be allergies to food or inhalant allergens. If it were mange, yes, the other cats should be getting it depending on the type.

[Soph the vet]

Oh boy, here's one I posted a while ago that I don't think you ever saw.

How long will it take my bottle baby foal to catch up with her half sisters? She's healthy, but just doesn't look as good as the others. And it's not weight either, I think she's where she should be weight wise. She is the smallest of all the 2007 crop, (except the Welsh foal) but then her dam was the smallest mare too.

It's more her coat, it just doesn't look as shiny as the others, and she still looks like a mountain goat with her winter coat. I wonder if it's just that she's out there without a momma to look after her. I have been bringing her in lately for some hay and feed to eat by herself, but she hates that, and won't eat unless I stay with her.

I was hoping she'd blend in with the crowd by the time they were all yearlings, but she's a sore thumb.
Actually, I did see your earlier post and I posted a reply but maybe you were off the boards for awhile. Why was she bottle fed? Was she premature or dysmature? Did she have any perinatal health issues? How many horses do you have on your place? What is your deworming schedule and do you take periodic fecal egg counts to see if there is resistance in the herd? I would definitely look at a fecal and see if there is a parasitic problem given the coat you are describing. Are you adding any supplements to her?

[Soph the vet]

9 & 8 year old dogs of peeing on the corners in the house and the couch?

They have been cleaned thoroughly (the corners/couch). The dogs did this at the old house and our new house, and on the old couch and attempted to mark the new couch. They are fixed--one boy, one girl.

It's only the bedrooms/couch they mark, and it seems territorial. The older dog started after our first son was born and started with our bedroom.

They can't be in the house without being tied up because they sneak off and do this :banghead:. They are American Eskimos.
It probably is territorial and who knows which one started it. I would probably do a urinalysis on both of them though to rule out any medical reason for one of them starting this and the other following alone, so to speak. American Eskimos, IMO, can be somewhat neurotic and entrenched in behaviors. I know of plug-in products for cats to inhibit urine marking and there may be some for dogs, I would google urine marking in dogs and see if there is some kind of repellant that is either applied to surfaces or a plug-in (like a room deodorizer).

[Soph the vet]

Cool. That's very nice of you to answer questions :)

Here's a few for you if you have time.

There seems to be a lot of controversy over raw food diets (also called BARF diets) for dogs. What are your thoughts?

Also, what sort of preventative care should a dog have ever year, and what items are not really needed unless there is a problem?

I've also heard of some people not getting their dogs vaccinated every year, saying they are healthier without the shots. Again, what are your thoughts on this practice?

Thanks so much :)
I am not a fan of BARF. I know many out there who use it and like it. My bias is that raw meat can harbor salmonella, e. coli, and other bacteria that dogs and cats are just as susceptible to as we are.
Preventative care: yearly physical exam, after the age of seven may want to consider routine bloodwork and urinalysis to assess organ function and get a heads-up on any metabolic problem related to aging. Core vaccines would be DHLPP(Distemper, hepatitis, lepto, parainfluenza, and parvo) one combo shot, and Rabies. DHLPP is given yearly although there is a 3yr. vax on the market which my clinic has not used yet. Rabies is anywhere from every 1-3 yrs. depending on your state. Vaccines above and beyond this are Lymes (I don't recommend this for house dogs, lousy vax IMO) and Bordatella vax if you are boarding your dog (kennel cough). Yearly testing for heartworm disease is recommended. Depending on where you live monthly heartworm preventative should be given during your mosquito season, that means year-round in the South!
There is a shift from yearly vax to checking antibody titers to see if your dog needs a booster for certain diseases. Titers require a blood test and can be expensive. For older patients I often tell the owner to just keep them current on Rabies for legal reasons. If their dog was not current on Rabies and bit someone, that person could demand the dog be euthanized and tested. If they are current they only need to be quarantined.

[KAR120C]

We actually have an appointment next week for this cat but as a public service I'll ask you here too ;)

He's 12, indoor/outdoor (due to long term relationship with litter box as a place to poop NEXT to), very mild-mannered, fixed male. Good pet and all that. Has asthma, and heartworm positive but without symptoms (unless you count the asthma - one vet thought they might be related, another didn't.)

Lately he's gotten really really stupid. He was never the smartest cat in the world, but it's like he can't do anything without huge numbers of cues -- can't find his food bowl until you go through pulling out the bin, getting a scoop of food, putting it in the (already full) bowl, scoop back in bin, lid on bin, bin back to the corner and Oh My GOSH... THERE'S my bowl! He doesn't seem to be blind or deaf, but just acts like it... And he's started missing his target when he jumps. He sleeps on the arm of the sofa, and a week ago launched himself up there only to smack right into the adjacent window. And he has suddenly started jumping on the kitchen counters in search of butter, after 12 years of no interest in people food (or counters). If he finds it he'll eat about half a stick (eewwww!) And he spent two weeks last month insisting that my pillow was in fact his bed. He gave up on that, but it was weird.

I can't imagine any of these are good signs, but are they really bad signs or just generic elderly cat things?

[Soph the vet]

Thanks for such a sweet offer, Soph. You are very kind to share your knowledge with us.

What about a cat that licks his fur to the point of creating bald patches. His tummy is mostly bare now, and there are thinned spots all along his back, from about mid-torso (do cats have torsos?) to tail. I'm not keen on steroid shots and would like to try some other possibilities first. Diet perhaps? Also, I will do a better job of keeping up with flea treatments as I've been told it is likely an allergy to flea bites. Anything else I can try. What foods would you recommend?

Doran
If you know your cat has fleas then putting him on a monthly flea treatment like Frontline is a good idea. If there are no fleas, it could be selftrauma from stress resulting in pychogenic alopecia. Has there been a change in his routine? addition or subtraction in the family? Change in diet? It is a neuroses and can be controlled with antidepressants or valium in some cats....yes , you read that correctly...antidepressants. If you know there is a stressor that can be removed, remove it and have him wear a kitty t-shirt (like a premie onesie ,cut the flap off) and see if it keeps him from licking. Valium could be used in the short term to " break the cycle".

[GothicGyrl]

No help for me? :(

[Soph the vet]

We actually have an appointment next week for this cat but as a public service I'll ask you here too ;)

He's 12, indoor/outdoor (due to long term relationship with litter box as a place to poop NEXT to), very mild-mannered, fixed male. Good pet and all that. Has asthma, and heartworm positive but without symptoms (unless you count the asthma - one vet thought they might be related, another didn't.)

Lately he's gotten really really stupid. He was never the smartest cat in the world, but it's like he can't do anything without huge numbers of cues -- can't find his food bowl until you go through pulling out the bin, getting a scoop of food, putting it in the (already full) bowl, scoop back in bin, lid on bin, bin back to the corner and Oh My GOSH... THERE'S my bowl! He doesn't seem to be blind or deaf, but just acts like it... And he's started missing his target when he jumps. He sleeps on the arm of the sofa, and a week ago launched himself up there only to smack right into the adjacent window. And he has suddenly started jumping on the kitchen counters in search of butter, after 12 years of no interest in people food (or counters). If he finds it he'll eat about half a stick (eewwww!) And he spent two weeks last month insisting that my pillow was in fact his bed. He gave up on that, but it was weird.

I can't imagine any of these are good signs, but are they really bad signs or just generic elderly cat things?
OK, first of all I agree with the vet who thinks the heartworm and asthma are related, just FYI.
Have him tested for hyperthyroidism. Cats with increased levels of T4 can start acting how you are describing. The vet may even be able to palpate a thyroid nodule on his neck during the physical exam, not always but maybe. Hyperthyroidism can lead to hypertension and incoordination, also vision problems, cardiac disease, many things. It is treatable if he has it.
Heartworm, depending on the worm burden (number of adult worms) can lead to emboli, this is a stretch, maybe causing mini-strokes in your cat?
I would definitely check the T4. Other rule-outs would include kidney disease and diabetes.

[Soph the vet]

No help for me? :(
Sorry, Toni, I took an oath to alleviate animal suffering, not human suffering. No pets?

[Soph the vet]

[quote=Ottakee;98798]Last week we adopted a 26 year old 15.3hh Quarter Horse gelding for my girls. He was used for therapeutic riding but needs more care than that facility can provide at this time.

He has only 7 viable teeth and needs about 300 pounds on him. Here is a picture of his body the day after we got him. Hard to tell his exact condition as he is very fuzzy--but should start shedding soon.

My question is, how fast should we be putting weight on him? What is the best method? He was being fed only once a day there. Now we are giving him a mixture of senior pellets, senior powder, beet pulp, and oils in a mash twice a day. Then at least 2 more times a day he is getting a mash of alfalfa pellets and beet pulp. So, he is getting fed 4 times a day. He has loose hay to nibble at as well but he mostly just quids that.

Any other hints for us?[/quote
Sounds like a great diet that you have him one. I would expect him to gain weight back slowly though given his age and those teeth. Maybe 50# per month? Make sure there are no other preexisting conditions like Cushings or parasites.

[Soph the vet]

Alright, I do have a question for you..

Pit Bull rescue--he's roughly 8-10 years old (was roughly 2 when we rescued him)--not abused by former owner, but abused by her dogs. Vet seen by her vet several times, taken care of as much as she was willing(dog actually belonged to her brother and he was the negligent one).

Had to have his right ear removed due to some type of tumor. I declined the tests due to cost, but DR though it was some sort of cystic tumor. He actually had two--one on his ear that caused the removal and one on the top of his head that the Vet said was "feeding" into the one on his ear (I'm serious, this thing looked like something straight out of a zombie flick)..He's not fixed and never been bred either.

Here is what the Vet did:


Backstory--the night I got him, he was attacked by the former owner's bigger dog--AGAIN. He was chained, this dog wasn't. She was already treating him for a previous attack by this dog (incidentally, on that ear). He's been attacked twice after this by 2 other big dogs (he did not provoke, got the police report to prove it). He's NEVER attacked anyone, never bit anyone and honestly, if you saw him, he is the most stupidiest, thick headed, dumb blonde dog I have ever had. He is afraid of everything. BUT--he's also the best **** dog I've ever had :)

So we get the tumors removed. He recovers nicely. And now, just since his surgery (and whew! Here comes my question), he has started tearing up my trash and the crotches out of my clothes.

he has never done this before, ever! we've had him almost 8 years and he's never done this

It is only the small trash can under MY desk and only MY jeans crotches and underwear. He has chewed DH's shorts legs once. He touches nothing else!! Not even the kitchen trash that might have food in it.

He is self-regulated, in that we have one of those doggie feeders left out all the time for him and he eats only when he's hungry (good helping in the morning, a few minor nibbles in the afternoon and a good helping around our bed time). He's only 70lbs (vet told me he's still underweight, but I don't think so, this boy is stock solid. His tail WILL bruise you).

He loves Old Roy dog food but we just bought him Pedigree Adult Nutrition(which he loves, so it isn't dietary change--this dog loves fresh veggies and turkey). He is very active (OMG!) and gets lots of outdoor time and play time (he has his "babies" (stuffed animals) and loves to play with empty soda bottles).

Help? Why is he chewing just those things???

Help? I'm at my wits end here.

Mucho rep for helping.
OK, is he an intact male or neutered? If he is intact and given his age, he may have some hormonal increase due to testicular issue causing this increase in interest in crotches?? It is actually a very common behavior in both male and female dogs to go after underwear, etc. ( I realize he was not doing this previously). If he is neutered no need to worry about feeling his testicles for abnormalities or getting hormone tests:001_smile:. I have removed many underwear, pantyhose (hips to toes), tampons, etc. from the intestines of dogs so definitely keep the laundry and trash out of his reach. I don't think the anesthesia or meds would've caused this change in him. Could be that he feels more like a puppy now that the nasty ear was removed and is acting like one, or is he associating you with being taken to the vet and waking up as Van Gogh?

[KAR120C]

OK, first of all I agree with the vet who thinks the heartworm and asthma are related, just FYI.
Have him tested for hyperthyroidism. Cats with increased levels of T4 can start acting how you are describing. The vet may even be able to palpate a thyroid nodule on his neck during the physical exam, not always but maybe. Hyperthyroidism can lead to hypertension and incoordination, also vision problems, cardiac disease, many things. It is treatable if he has it.
Heartworm, depending on the worm burden (number of adult worms) can lead to emboli, this is a stretch, maybe causing mini-strokes in your cat?
I would definitely check the T4. Other rule-outs would include kidney disease and diabetes.
Ooh - actually that would fit! Wow! Especially since I forgot to mention the weight loss... :blushing: Thank you thank you!

[Soph the vet]

Sorry, didn't see this one right away, I posted a reply!

[Soph the vet]

This is fun but I have to go take a shower and start school!:smilielol5:

[MaryM]

My ds's pooch has lupus and aspirates blood, scaly and raw nose where the black snoot has disappeared. Is there any alternative to steroids? We are trying massive doses of vitamin C and Salmon oil and vitamin E to build up his immune system and it seems to be working but it may just be temporary, I fear. AND, do you agree with the recent research that over vaccinating can cause lupus? It is my understanding that vet schools, some, today are teaching that dogs do not need yearly vaccinations and that the early life vaccinations are more powerful than was previously know. Kinda like with our kids! Thanks for any comments and I am not trying to polarize with regard to vaccinations; just curious.

Mary

[Jean too]

Our female Schnauzer has been treated on two different occasions for the skin infection that this condition can result in. After the last round of antibiotics she still has one comedome on her shoulder. My question to you is, do you think it would be safe for me to put tea tree oil on the remaining comedome? Thanks for your help.

[GothicGyrl]

OK, is he an intact male or neutered? If he is intact and given his age, he may have some hormonal increase due to testicular issue causing this increase in interest in crotches?? It is actually a very common behavior in both male and female dogs to go after underwear, etc. ( I realize he was not doing this previously). If he is neutered no need to worry about feeling his testicles for abnormalities or getting hormone tests. I have removed many underwear, pantyhose (hips to toes), tampons, etc. from the intestines of dogs so definitely keep the laundry and trash out of his reach. I don't think the anesthesia or meds would've caused this change in him. Could be that he feels more like a puppy now that the nasty ear was removed and is acting like one, or is he associating you with being taken to the vet and waking up as Van Gogh?

He is intact and never been bred(that I know of and certainly not by us). If you cut him open, you would find jean material, paper material (he tore up an entire letter the other day) and whatever else is in my trash. We have picked things up off the floor (he actually took DH's boy scout manual OFF the shelf once)...

How do I re-train this "puppy" then? It is getting very annoying. I've started "locking" my computer chair under the desk (slid it under so it doesn't move and I have to "pop" it out when I need to use it) at night, so that he can't get to this trash can. So I have started taking some type of training approach with him. On the odd night I forget though--watch out, my trash can has been demolished.

And what is this hormonal increase? Is it a bad thing? I mean he really is too old to get fixed (and I just cannot afford it), so what do we do for him if his diet is still good, he is still active, and nothing major has changed about him--but it appears he's going through a "teenage boy hormone rush"?

(and thank you!! I've repped you mucho kudos for all your help)

[PrairieAir]

If they are not crusty it might be pychogenic alopecia, fancy name for "hair-pulling neurotic cat". Usually these cats are stressed about something which causes self-trauma. Another possibility is fungus. Some cats will be subclinical carriers and never show signs, others may have what you are describing. A skin scrape and fungal culture would be good tests to do. Could be allergies to food or inhalant allergens. If it were mange, yes, the other cats should be getting it depending on the type.

Thank you so much! I think I will call the local vet and ask how much it would cost for a visit to do the skin scrape and fungal culture. Then maybe I can talk dh into it.

Dh was never a cat person, but they're growing on him. He often picks up a cat or two and brings it inside to pet it or sits on the front porch letting them climb all over him. He won't admit it, but I think he really likes them. BUT this is how he was raised. Cats are free. Cats are not as good as dogs. We don't take cats to the vet. I think part of it is also thinking that we may take this cat in to the vet and ring up a huge bill. Knowing how much it might cost could help.

Thanks again!

[Cadam]

My house cat has no frount claws. Would it be ok to transition him to being an outdoor cat? Would it be wise to get him a tag and collar if we do this and how do I keep him from pulling it off or getting a foot stuck in the collar (this has happened in the past)

He is spraying and defecating in all corners of the house and we have been dealing with it, trying to prevent it exc. for the last 2 years and it is just getting worse.
editing to add that he was neutered as a kitten and we have had him since he left his mama. He is about 9 yo.

[RoughCollie]

Thanks, Soph. I've been eager to try this food, so now I will (or he will).

I looked at the ingredient list. Corn is not there which is a good thing. However wheat and chicken are main ingredients which can be allergens for some dogs. If your dog has no known allergies then I would say try this diet. I do not endorse raw diets as animals can contract salmonella and e. coli just as we can from raw meat so glad your dog won't eat it:001_smile:.

[BritAnnia]

Dying cat?
My cat won't eat. She's had bloodwork done that came back normal. Every few days I can temp her with a teaspoon or two of watered down babyfood (meat). She's also willingly eaten a small piece of deli-ham twice.
This has been going on for weeks and she's basically bone and fur now, with no signs of pain.
She's got some weird behaviour going on as well, like wanting to drink water from the bath and actually dozing (spacing out?) laying in the water.
Also, a weird tongue/mouth thing which is similar to when she'd get some fur stuck on her tongue while grooming (she no longer grooms).
Should I force-feed or not? If so, what? Dd and I have been doing a little force feeding but I just wonder if we're making her worse.
I feel so guilty not doing more for her and not knowing what the problem is in the first place.

[Mekanamom]

Ooh, ooh, I have a question!

My 8.5 year old lab is getting arthritis in the last two vertebrae in his spine (closest to his pelvis.) He's on Deramaxx right now, which helps manage the pain.

On a walk last week, another family with a dog said it's a lot less expensive to just give your dog baby aspirin instead.

Do you agree, and if so, what dosage should I give my dog? He's between 65-70 lbs.

Thanks!! (Hee hee, I wasn't going to ask you, until I saw the invitation. I figured you must want to get away from the work stuff and just hang out with the other homeschooling moms sometimes. My cousin, who is also a vet, can't go anywhere without getting cornered by a relative who needs vet advice. My mom is the worst about it. :rolleyes: So I always try not to do that.)

[Soph the vet]

My ds's pooch has lupus and aspirates blood, scaly and raw nose where the black snoot has disappeared. Is there any alternative to steroids? We are trying massive doses of vitamin C and Salmon oil and vitamin E to build up his immune system and it seems to be working but it may just be temporary, I fear. AND, do you agree with the recent research that over vaccinating can cause lupus? It is my understanding that vet schools, some, today are teaching that dogs do not need yearly vaccinations and that the early life vaccinations are more powerful than was previously know. Kinda like with our kids! Thanks for any comments and I am not trying to polarize with regard to vaccinations; just curious.

Mary
I did post earlier about a movement toward titers vs. vaccinating yearly. I think there is definitely a link between vaccinations and autoimmune disease. As for Lupus, steroids are still going to be an evil necessity for most dogs. There are immunostimulants out there that your vet can recommend what has worked in their clinic. Some are injectables requiring serial vet visits. I think the supplements you are trying are a great idea too.

[Soph the vet]

Our female Schnauzer has been treated on two different occasions for the skin infection that this condition can result in. After the last round of antibiotics she still has one comedome on her shoulder. My question to you is, do you think it would be safe for me to put tea tree oil on the remaining comedome? Thanks for your help.
Tea tree oil is safe as far as I know. Because it is a naturipathic remedy it has not undergone rigorous testing like licensed pharmaceuticals. I would say try it in small amounts first to make sure he does not have a reaction.

[Soph the vet]

He is intact and never been bred(that I know of and certainly not by us). If you cut him open, you would find jean material, paper material (he tore up an entire letter the other day) and whatever else is in my trash. We have picked things up off the floor (he actually took DH's boy scout manual OFF the shelf once)...

How do I re-train this "puppy" then? It is getting very annoying. I've started "locking" my computer chair under the desk (slid it under so it doesn't move and I have to "pop" it out when I need to use it) at night, so that he can't get to this trash can. So I have started taking some type of training approach with him. On the odd night I forget though--watch out, my trash can has been demolished.

And what is this hormonal increase? Is it a bad thing? I mean he really is too old to get fixed (and I just cannot afford it), so what do we do for him if his diet is still good, he is still active, and nothing major has changed about him--but it appears he's going through a "teenage boy hormone rush"?

(and thank you!! I've repped you mucho kudos for all your help)
They are never too old to be neutered:001_smile:!! Many older males get neutered for medical reasons, testicular tumors, benign prostatic hyperplasia, anal tumors that correct when castrated (because they are under hormonal influence). If his testes are symmetrical you're probably not dealing with a tumor. Neutering him at this point would only be if you suspected a medical reason for behavior. If just behaviora, neutering probably won't make a bit of difference. Hate to sound hopeless but it may just be that the laundry and trash need to stay out of his way indefinitely. A last ditch method would be to cover your desk trash with tabasco sauce, let him eat it and he may decide to never go near it again! Works with dogs that eat poop piles anyway!

[Soph the vet]

My house cat has no frount claws. Would it be ok to transition him to being an outdoor cat? Would it be wise to get him a tag and collar if we do this and how do I keep him from pulling it off or getting a foot stuck in the collar (this has happened in the past)

He is spraying and defecating in all corners of the house and we have been dealing with it, trying to prevent it exc. for the last 2 years and it is just getting worse.
editing to add that he was neutered as a kitten and we have had him since he left his mama. He is about 9 yo.
Believe it or not cats can still climb trees with just their rear claws. They cannot fight so well, however. I would say in your case that to save the house put the cat outside. There are some who will disagree with me on this but a cat who soils the house is bound to be euthanized. The collar idea is good but need to have proper fit to prevent accidents. Maybe one with a "quick release" if it gets caught on something.

[Soph the vet]

Dying cat?
My cat won't eat. She's had bloodwork done that came back normal. Every few days I can temp her with a teaspoon or two of watered down babyfood (meat). She's also willingly eaten a small piece of deli-ham twice.
This has been going on for weeks and she's basically bone and fur now, with no signs of pain.
She's got some weird behaviour going on as well, like wanting to drink water from the bath and actually dozing (spacing out?) laying in the water.
Also, a weird tongue/mouth thing which is similar to when she'd get some fur stuck on her tongue while grooming (she no longer grooms).
Should I force-feed or not? If so, what? Dd and I have been doing a little force feeding but I just wonder if we're making her worse.
I feel so guilty not doing more for her and not knowing what the problem is in the first place.
Need a little more info. How old is your cat? If bloodwork is normal, I would do an x-ray to look for tumors, obstruction, that kind of thing. Some cancers will have normal bloodwork. Any other signs? Was she tested for Feline Leukemia?

[GothicGyrl]

I can't believe I am admitting to this in public, but I just gave my dog a "testicle check".. They are round, warm to the touch, no obvious abrasions, bumps, or anything that I would think odd if I were doing something similar on myself--like a breast exam. There is no odd smell, nothing. I know most of what you mentioned is probably internal and I am so not going there ;).. but outwardly I see nothing wrong with his testicles.

sigh... I love this dog, I really do... grrrrr

[Soph the vet]

Ooh, ooh, I have a question!

My 8.5 year old lab is getting arthritis in the last two vertebrae in his spine (closest to his pelvis.) He's on Deramaxx right now, which helps manage the pain.

On a walk last week, another family with a dog said it's a lot less expensive to just give your dog baby aspirin instead.

Do you agree, and if so, what dosage should I give my dog? He's between 65-70 lbs.

Thanks!! (Hee hee, I wasn't going to ask you, until I saw the invitation. I figured you must want to get away from the work stuff and just hang out with the other homeschooling moms sometimes. My cousin, who is also a vet, can't go anywhere without getting cornered by a relative who needs vet advice. My mom is the worst about it. :rolleyes: So I always try not to do that.)
I don't mind the questions at all. Deramaxx or Rimadyl are your best bet. Aspirin is fine in the short run. It cannot be given long term due to GI ulceration and GI bleeding. Ibuprofen and Tylenol can NEVER be given to dogs and cats, just FYI. I would stick with the Deramaxx. You could also add joint supplements to diet like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. There are also arthritis diets out there. Also, if your dog is overweight getting the excess pounds off saves the joints. Lastly, steroid injections can help the extremely painful or debilitated dog.

[Soph the vet]

I can't believe I am admitting to this in public, but I just gave my dog a "testicle check".. They are round, warm to the touch, no obvious abrasions, bumps, or anything that I would think odd if I were doing something similar on myself--like a breast exam. There is no odd smell, nothing. I know most of what you mentioned is probably internal and I am so not going there ;).. but outwardly I see nothing wrong with his testicles.

sigh... I love this dog, I really do... grrrrr
You go gyrl!:ohmy:

[BritAnnia]

We think she's about 10 or 11. She was fully grown when we adopted her from the local animal shelter and we've had her 9 years.
The testing she had was all bloodwork, would that have covered a test for feline leukemia?
I'm not sure what other signs might indicate cancer. No obvious growths or lumps.
*When* she eats, her digestion seems to be working properly so no signs of blockage internally. The vet didn't feel anything when he massaged(?) her abdomen.
I just offered her some food. She made the odd motion with her mouth again. I wish I were able to explain it more clearly. It's like a tic, she makes a clicking sort of swallow/lick and usually jerks her face a little to the left as she does it. She's doing this mostly when she's presented with food, whether she then goes on to actually eat the food or not.

I want to add that what you are offering here, in answering our questions is absolutely invaluable. Thankyou!

I just googled feline leukemia. We've had kitty 9 years and she's an only cat, strictly indoors. She has none of the other symtoms listed for FeLV aside from loss of appetite and consequent weight loss.
Another thing though, when she *does* eat, it tends to be more liquidy food rather than solid. She did eat the ham I menioned before but that was a rare occurance. I've mostly only gotten her to eat when the food is smooth and watered to a thick gravy like consistency. We've also been using this same liquidy food mixture when forcing the food into her via a syringe.
Are there better choices than babyfood for this? Should I add something else?

[LisaNY]

Thanks so much for offering your time to help w/vet questions. Bless your heart!

I have a 6yo. Pomeranian female - spayed. I used to clip her hair real close, but I read somewhere that it was not good for their coat, so I stopped. Now, her hair is not growing back nicely at all. It is thinning out around her neck and hind legs. The guard hairs are short, and the softer outer fur is growing in random patches. I took her to the vet, and he gave me shampoo and told me to wash her once per week. It has been almost two months, and there has been no change.

She is on Wellness, and a little chicken stew w/dinner. I also put a little safflower oil on her food.

I am at my wits end. Do you have any ideas as to why this could be happening?

Thanks!

[Soph the vet]

We think she's about 10 or 11. She was fully grown when we adopted her from the local animal shelter and we've had her 9 years.
The testing she had was all bloodwork, would that have covered a test for feline leukemia?
I'm not sure what other signs might indicate cancer. No obvious growths or lumps.
*When* she eats, her digestion seems to be working properly so no signs of blockage internally. The vet didn't feel anything when he massaged(?) her abdomen.
I just offered her some food. She made the odd motion with her mouth again. I wish I were able to explain it more clearly. It's like a tic, she makes a clicking sort of swallow/lick and usually jerks her face a little to the left as she does it. She's doing this mostly when she's presented with food, whether she then goes on to actually eat the food or not.

I want to add that what you are offering here, in answering our questions is absolutely invaluable. Thankyou!
The licking/jerking thing concerns me. Is she able to close her mouth completely? I have had cats dislocate their jaws and be unable to eat. Another more common problem is bad teeth. This would explain mouth issues, weight loss, and reluctance to eat. The blood test for leukemia is usually a separate test, not expensive and takes ten minutes for results. She may have been tested as a kitten. Has your vet looked under tongue for string? More common than you think, then it winds its way through the gut and does a lot of damage. Other thoughts would include some kind of neurologic disease causing both the jaw/mouth stuff and the inappetance.

[Soph the vet]

Thanks so much for offering your time to help w/vet questions. Bless your heart!

I have a 6yo. Pomeranian female - spayed. I used to clip her hair real close, but I read somewhere that it was not good for their coat, so I stopped. Now, her hair is not growing back nicely at all. It is thinning out around her neck and hind legs. The guard hairs are short, and the softer outer fur is growing in random patches. I took her to the vet, and he gave me shampoo and told me to wash her once per week. It has been almost two months, and there has been no change.

She is on Wellness, and a little chicken stew w/dinner. I also put a little safflower oil on her food.

I am at my wits end. Do you have any ideas as to why this could be happening?

Thanks!
If your vet is thinking it is allergies maybe he has already talked with you about changing her diet. If she has been on the same food for two years or longer she could have an allergy to the protein, corn, or wheat in it. Switching her to a new protein (i.e. if she has never had lamb, try lamb) and skipping any human food, may improve her coat. If it is related to the grooming, I don't quite know what to say. There are veterinary dermatologists...believe it or not....and one would be able to probably give you a detailed analysis of what is going on with her coat.

[Daisy]

I'd just like to know if you have any suggestions for getting a stray cat spayed cheaply. It isn't my cat but it thinks it lives in my backyard (we don't feed it, etc.). The cat was obviously in heat. I called around to all the shelters, animal control, etc. I was able to get a $15 off coupon but will still have to pay $70 to get the spay and all the vets said I'd also have to pay $40 for them to check the cat first for feline leukemia and they said it would have to have a rabies shot. So it's looking more and more like my bill for this cat to be spayed and not have kittens in my backyard is going to be over $150. I called animal control and the SPCA and they would CHARGE me if I dropped the cat off, just to be rid of it. ????? So either way, I'm paying. Do you have any ideas? I'm beginning to understand why folks drop stray cats off at the local park (not that we would do that).

[BritAnnia]

Have you checked to see if there is a low-cost spay/neuter clinic nearby? We have one locally and it's only for spay/neuter and required vaccines such as rabies. Also, local vets or petstores sponsor cheap vaccinations during certain times of the year.
I'm in NC, not sure if this sort of pet-aid is a countrywide thing or just local.

[astrid]

We're driving from CT to CO for our National Specialty (dog show) and I"m worried that she'll go start to cycle before then, or during the trip. I honestly do not know what I'd do with a ***** in peak heat in a nice room at The Stanley Hotel (or locked in the Suburban, for that matter!) around all those intact males.

Just wondering.....is there?

[Soph the vet]

I'd just like to know if you have any suggestions for getting a stray cat spayed cheaply. It isn't my cat but it thinks it lives in my backyard (we don't feed it, etc.). The cat was obviously in heat. I called around to all the shelters, animal control, etc. I was able to get a $15 off coupon but will still have to pay $70 to get the spay and all the vets said I'd also have to pay $40 for them to check the cat first for feline leukemia and they said it would have to have a rabies shot. So it's looking more and more like my bill for this cat to be spayed and not have kittens in my backyard is going to be over $150. I called animal control and the SPCA and they would CHARGE me if I dropped the cat off, just to be rid of it. ????? So either way, I'm paying. Do you have any ideas? I'm beginning to understand why folks drop stray cats off at the local park (not that we would do that).
Some metropolitan areas have lowcost spay/neuter clinics. You could check with a local vet on that. $150 sounds about right for a spay and vaccines. Some clinics do not require the feline leukemia test, we do not.
Animal control should come out and gather a stray animal without cost to you so I would pursue that option further.

[BritAnnia]

Her mouth seems fine, she drinks, she purrs, normal behaviour except for obvious weakness due to lack of food.
I don't think I'm explaining well exactly what this mouth motion looks like, as if she's got something on her tongue and is trying to get it off. One or two quick movements is all it is, and it's not a constant thing.
Looks like I need to get her back to the local vet office for more tests.
THanks so much for your advice today. :)

[Soph the vet]

We're driving from CT to CO for our National Specialty (dog show) and I"m worried that she'll go start to cycle before then, or during the trip. I honestly do not know what I'd do with a ***** in peak heat in a nice room at The Stanley Hotel (or locked in the Suburban, for that matter!) around all those intact males.

Just wondering.....is there?
There are hormones you can give to a dog to mimic pregnancy thereby delaying estrus but I would not advise it. Hormone therapy may lead to a condition called pyometra down the road (pus filled uterus, requires emergency spay in some cases). I think to alter the natural cycle of a ***** is asking for trouble if you want to be able to breed her again too.

[Ellie]

we *think* he might be deaf. We've only noticed it within the last couple of weeks, 'cuz after all, he's a cat, and who can tell if a cat really hears you or not? Nevertheless, we've noticed in the last couple of weeks that he really does seem not to hear. He is otherwise healthy (has a chronic-but-not-currently-bad bladder problem), doesn't mess with his ears, doesn't seem to behave any differently...except for the hearing. I've pondered taking him to the vet, but I don't want to spend a bundle of money for the vet to tell me what I already know, and that there's nothing that can be done except rilly expensive surgery or something.

Whaddaya think?

[astrid]

we show her, but have no plans to breed her, but "m getting heavy pressure from friends of ours in the breed! ;-) She's doing quite well, and is very nicely put together with a PERFECT temperament, but I've been in dogs for years (showing and training) and I know what a lot of work a litter is....just not something we have time for now.

Pyo is a nasty condition, that's for sure. The problem with Danika is that she has very irregular cycles (so does her mom; I understand those things are very heritable) and it's just my luck that the unpredictablility of her cycles will impact our nationals. Ah well. I can always send dh hiking in the Rockies with he!

Thanks for your advice! :bored:

[Mekanamom]

I don't mind the questions at all. Deramaxx or Rimadyl are your best bet. Aspirin is fine in the short run. It cannot be given long term due to GI ulceration and GI bleeding. Ibuprofen and Tylenol can NEVER be given to dogs and cats, just FYI. I would stick with the Deramaxx. You could also add joint supplements to diet like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. There are also arthritis diets out there. Also, if your dog is overweight getting the excess pounds off saves the joints. Lastly, steroid injections can help the extremely painful or debilitated dog.

Thanks! Yep, he's also supplemented with Ceytl-M (http://www.cetylm.com/content/dogs.asp). He has lost some excess weight (our older dog was just put down a few weeks ago, so he can no longer eat the extra food she had been leaving in her bowl.) He's looking pretty good now; I'm estimating he's lost about 5 lbs and seems to be staying there.

Ok, so I'll stick with the Deremaxx for now! I surely don't want to risk ulcers!

Yes, our vet said that steroids might be in the future for him... whatever keeps him comfortable... I'd like to delay that as much as I can, though!

Thanks very much!!

[LisaNY]

If your vet is thinking it is allergies maybe he has already talked with you about changing her diet. If she has been on the same food for two years or longer she could have an allergy to the protein, corn, or wheat in it. Switching her to a new protein (i.e. if she has never had lamb, try lamb) and skipping any human food, may improve her coat. If it is related to the grooming, I don't quite know what to say. There are veterinary dermatologists...believe it or not....and one would be able to probably give you a detailed analysis of what is going on with her coat.

Thank you - no, he doesn't think it is related to her food. There is no wheat in Wellness - just barley, oats, and brown rice. It is a lamb-based food.

I think I will ask my vet for a referral to a dermatologist.

Thanks again for your time!

[jail warden]

She got a rash on her belly that cleared up by itself, but she still seems to itch all the time. I wondered could it be that she lays on the heaters and her skin dries out? If that's it, what should I do to keep her off.:cursing: Or I read somewhere that a dog had to get off of soy in dogfood and then he got better. So what's you opinion, or do you need more info?!

TIA!:thumbup:

[Soph the vet]

we *think* he might be deaf. We've only noticed it within the last couple of weeks, 'cuz after all, he's a cat, and who can tell if a cat really hears you or not? Nevertheless, we've noticed in the last couple of weeks that he really does seem not to hear. He is otherwise healthy (has a chronic-but-not-currently-bad bladder problem), doesn't mess with his ears, doesn't seem to behave any differently...except for the hearing. I've pondered taking him to the vet, but I don't want to spend a bundle of money for the vet to tell me what I already know, and that there's nothing that can be done except rilly expensive surgery or something.

Whaddaya think?
You are best off not bringing him in for this problem. He is either deaf as you suspect or dementia is setting in. You can do expensive tests to see if there is a brain lesion (like a CTscan) but I would not recommend this in a 17yr. old kitty. I would say if he is eating/drinking, peeing, defecating all normally and does not seem like he is in pain then just enjoy him like he is.

[Soph the vet]

She got a rash on her belly that cleared up by itself, but she still seems to itch all the time. I wondered could it be that she lays on the heaters and her skin dries out? If that's it, what should I do to keep her off.:cursing: Or I read somewhere that a dog had to get off of soy in dogfood and then he got better. So what's you opinion, or do you need more info?!

TIA!:thumbup:
I love your avatar! Itchy Jack Russells make me think of allergies, as long as you have not seen any fleas. Sure, it could just be dry skin in the winter. You could add omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to his diet and see if that makes a difference. If she has been on the same food for a couple of years she might be allergic to the protein in the food, or corn or wheat. Allergy testing is available but most owners opt to try a new food first. Two kinds I really like are Nature's Recipe and Sensitive Skin and Stomach. Cut out table scraps and replace dog treats with carrots which are hypoallergenic. Your terrier may need a dose of steroids to squash the allergic reaction while you are making diet changes.

[Remudamom]

Whoops, I'm finally back.

The foal wouldn't accept her mama. Mare was willing to nurse her but the foal just wouldn't nurse. So we milked out the colostrum and got it in her. We kept trying to get them together but it just never worked out. For a few days we milked mom and fed it to the baby, but eventually we just bought a starter and mom dried up.

We have 16 horses right now. Most of the time they run together, but sometimes I stick them in different pastures. It is time to worm everyone.
I guess I'll have a fecal done. She's not on any supplements right now, she actually looked pretty good until around Jan. and now just isn't shedding out like everyone else.

[Michelle T]

We have a two-year-old cat, who was adopted from a rescue. They told us she had severe respiratory illness when they got her, but had been treated and was supposedly better.

For the 1.5 years we have had her, she has fairly frequent (a few times per day) "attacks" of loud, honking sounding breathing. Sometimes just one or two breaths are like this, sometimes it goes on for half a minute or so. Sometimes she crouches down with her head forward while doing this. She does NOT throw up a hairball, although the sound is somewhat like that retching sound. She often gets these attacks while playing. She is otherwise perfectly healthy, there has never been any runny nose, no runny eyes, ears are clean, she is entirely indoor. All three of our cats eat Wellness cat food.

Could this honking sound be an asthma attack of some kind? Is there anything that can be done? Does anything NEED to be done? The attacks are very short, and she is perfectly fine otherwise.

Thanks so much for your time! Bet you didn't think you'd get THIS many questions! :laugh:

[Ellie]

You are best off not bringing him in for this problem. He is either deaf as you suspect or dementia is setting in. You can do expensive tests to see if there is a brain lesion (like a CTscan) but I would not recommend this in a 17yr. old kitty. I would say if he is eating/drinking, peeing, defecating all normally and does not seem like he is in pain then just enjoy him like he is.

Thank you so much for your time. Yes, he does everything else normally. We'll just continue to love on him :-)

FTR, raw food is BAD for Hobbes. He lost weight, and his coat (which is slightly long) became all matted and nasty. We went back to his normal food, Innova, and his weight and coat are back to normal.

[CalicoKat]

especially if she gets into the cat's dry food or if she has cheap dog food or treats.

So she's eating leftovers. Her seizures are only happening monthly now. Is she getting enough nutrition eating our leftovers?

Her pom buddy is also eating leftovers because they "share" a bowl. :) He's always been a bit chunky and now he seems to be just the right weight.

[Soph the vet]

We have a two-year-old cat, who was adopted from a rescue. They told us she had severe respiratory illness when they got her, but had been treated and was supposedly better.

For the 1.5 years we have had her, she has fairly frequent (a few times per day) "attacks" of loud, honking sounding breathing. Sometimes just one or two breaths are like this, sometimes it goes on for half a minute or so. Sometimes she crouches down with her head forward while doing this. She does NOT throw up a hairball, although the sound is somewhat like that retching sound. She often gets these attacks while playing. She is otherwise perfectly healthy, there has never been any runny nose, no runny eyes, ears are clean, she is entirely indoor. All three of our cats eat Wellness cat food.

Could this honking sound be an asthma attack of some kind? Is there anything that can be done? Does anything NEED to be done? The attacks are very short, and she is perfectly fine otherwise.

Thanks so much for your time! Bet you didn't think you'd get THIS many questions! :laugh:
It could possibly be an asthmatic reaction. Hairballs don't always come up they just get swallowed back down, could still be that. If so add canned pumpkin to her diet as a natural laxative. Another thought is heartworm. Cats can get heartworm (there is preventative available) and it can cause respiratory problems, cardiac problems, mimics asthma in some cases. Not treatable in cats like it is in dogs but you can test for it and at least know what is causing this. A collapsing trachea can also cause the sound you are describing but it is rare in cats compared to dogs. Not usually treated. Hope the info helps. I don't see any "wretching smilies" to add to the end of this!

[Soph the vet]

especially if she gets into the cat's dry food or if she has cheap dog food or treats.

So she's eating leftovers. Her seizures are only happening monthly now. Is she getting enough nutrition eating our leftovers?

Her pom buddy is also eating leftovers because they "share" a bowl. :) He's always been a bit chunky and now he seems to be just the right weight.
As long as the Basenji's weight looks ok she is probably getting enough calories. If she is middle age monthly seizures could be due to idiopathic epilepsy. Most lab tests will be normal if it is epilepsy (unlike a liver shunt causing seizures in a younger animal). I encourage owners to journal the seizures. Frequency, length of duration, what the dog is doing during the seizure, etc. Once the seizure activity becomes too frequent for the owner's life, we discuss medication options. All antiseizure meds are hard on the liver so it is best to put off medicating as long as possible. If she is an old dog then something like a brain tumor or a degenerative brain lesion could be causing the seizures in which case you could diagnose with a CTscan. Basenjis also have that risk of an enzyme deficiency involving clotting I think but now my memory banks are really being taxed, it is not something that would cause seizures as far as I can remember.

[CalicoKat]

As long as the Basenji's weight looks ok she is probably getting enough calories. If she is middle age monthly seizures could be due to idiopathic epilepsy. Most lab tests will be normal if it is epilepsy (unlike a liver shunt causing seizures in a younger animal). I encourage owners to journal the seizures. Frequency, length of duration, what the dog is doing during the seizure, etc. Once the seizure activity becomes too frequent for the owner's life, we discuss medication options. All antiseizure meds are hard on the liver so it is best to put off medicating as long as possible. If she is an old dog then something like a brain tumor or a degenerative brain lesion could be causing the seizures in which case you could diagnose with a CTscan. Basenjis also have that risk of an enzyme deficiency involving clotting I think but now my memory banks are really being taxed, it is not something that would cause seizures as far as I can remember.

Thanks! I'll start keeping a journal. Sometimes she has them in the middle of the night. She calls me just before it happens with this really weird, loud, groan. If I'm not visible she doesn't make that noise so I'm fairly sure she's talking to me.

[MaryM]

I did post earlier about a movement toward titers vs. vaccinating yearly. I think there is definitely a link between vaccinations and autoimmune disease. As for Lupus, steroids are still going to be an evil necessity for most dogs. There are immunostimulants out there that your vet can recommend what has worked in their clinic. Some are injectables requiring serial vet visits. I think the supplements you are trying are a great idea too.

Thanks so much for your help. And thankas for taking the time to do this for all of us!

Mary