Is Your Cat Missing the Litter Box?

You have a problem. Your cat is thinking outside the box, and not in a good way. You may be wondering what you did to inspire so much “creative expression.” Is your cat punishing you? Is Fluffy just “bad”? No, and no. House soiling and missing the litter box is a sign that your cat needs some help.

According to the Winn Feline Foundation, house soiling is the number one complaint among cat owners. The good news is that it is very treatable.

An accredited veterinarian can help you determine if the problem is medical or related to social or environmental stressors. In addition to a complete physical exam, the doctor will ask you specific “where and when” questions.

Health factors

Tony Buffington, DVM, PhD, a specialist in feline urinary disorders at The Ohio State University, and founder of the Indoor Cat Initiative says that many veterinarians recommend a urine test for every cat with a house soiling problem. The urinalysis will determine if blood, bacteria, or urinary crystals are present — signs that your cat might have feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD).

FLUTD is very common and can cause painful urination. Cats that begin to associate the litter box with pain will avoid it. Other medical possibilities include hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, diabetes, and arthritis and muscle or nerve disorders that might prevent your cat from getting to the litter box in time.

Environmental factors
If there is no medical cause, the next step is to look at environmental factors. Start with the litter box. Your cat might be avoiding the litter box because it is not cleaned well enough, you’ve changed the type of litter you use, or there is only one box for multiple cats.

Another possibility is that your cat is “marking” — spraying urine, typically on vertical objects such as walls and furniture, or in “socially significant” areas near doors or windows. Both male and female cats mark. The most common offenders are cats that have not been spayed or neutered.

Buffington says that stress can cause elimination problems too. For example, subtle aggression or harassment by other house cats or neighborhood cats may be an issue.

Indoor Cat Initiative

Even unremarkable changes in your home can make your cat anxious or fearful. Look around. Did anything change right before your cat started having problems? Did you get a new pet? A new couch? Maybe you just moved the old couch to a different part of the room, or had a dinner party. Cats are sensitive creatures and changes that seem small to you can throw your cat off his game. Check with your veterinarian about finding solutions that work for both you and your cat.

Source: http://www.aaha.org/pet_owner/pet_health_library/cat_care/behavior/missing_the_litter_box.aspx

Car Sickness In Pets

Does your dog throw up in the car when you go for rides? He may be experiencing typical motion sickness, just like some people do. Motion sickness usually begins very shortly after starting the car ride. The dog will begin to drool and then vomit. It’s not serious, but certainly not something that we like to clean up! To solve the problem, first try acclimating the dog to car rides. Do this by simply putting him in the car for a few minutes each day without going anywhere. Then try just going down the driveway and back, and the next day going around the block. Gradually build up the distance and time the dog rides in the car. 

 Sometimes this will help to decrease the dog’s anxiety over riding in the car and may help to decrease vomiting. If that doesn’t work, there are some over-the-counter medications you can try. The medication will need to be given about an hour before the car ride. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation as to what drug to try and the dosage for your pet.

(Never give any medications to your pet without your veterinarian’s advice!) These drugs are safe, with drowsiness usually the only major side effect. But since your dog isn’t driving the car, that shouldn’t be a problem! If over-the-counter drugs don’t work, your veterinarian may be able to suggest another method for curing the car sickness.

Source: http://www.aaha.org/pet_owner/pet_health_library/dog_care/general_health/car_sickness.aspx

Is your dog at risk for heartworm?

MAY 07, 2014 | BY JEB MORTIMER, DVM, SEATTLE VETERINARY ASSOCIATES

One of the advantages of our temperate Seattle weather is that it does not foster the development of particular parasites that are endemic to the warmer climates. One parasite of those parasites is Dirofilaria immitis otherwise known as heartworm. 

Heartworm is a parasite that is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito. Up until a few years ago, we had no concerns about this parasite threatening pets in the Pacific Northwest. However, we are now seeing the incidence of heartworm creeping northward through the Willamette Valley of Oregon and it could some day be a threat in Eastern Washington.

When a mosquito carrying the heartworm parasite bites an animal and transmits the infection, the larvae develop and migrate through the host’s circulatory system over a period of several months to become sexually mature adult worms. These adults will eventually end up in the heart, lungs and associated blood vessels.

After reproduction, they release their offspring, (microfilaria), into the blood stream.  The microfilaria can then be transmitted back to another mosquito through a blood meal. Once ingested by the mosquito, the immature parasite has to develop within the insect’s abdomen to become infective.This specific part of the life cycle is climate dependent and requires a minimum ambient temperature of 57° F to continue. The warmer the climate, the more efficient the maturation process is.  

Microfilaria can be detected in the blood about six to seven months after the infective larvae from the mosquito enter the dog. Male heartworms (four to six inches in length) and females (10-12 inches) fully mature about one year after infection, and their life span in dogs appears to average up to five to seven years. Detection of Heartworm disease can be accomplished through numerous means but the most common method of diagnosis is through a simple blood test that identifies the adult form of the parasite.

Most dogs with deartworm disease show no clinical signs. As the disease progresses, the most common early signs are coughing and respiratory changes. The severity of the clinical signs usually corresponds to the number of adult heartworms present, the timeline of the infection, and the activity of the dog.  

Dogs with higher numbers of worms are generally found to have more severe heart and lung disease due to inflammation that occurs in and around the arteries of the lungs. Later, the heart may enlarge and weaken due to an increased workload and congestive heart failure may occur. This can manifest further in more severe respiratory changes, weight loss, collapse, abdominal swelling (ascites) and exercise intolerance. 

Heartworm disease is treatable; however treatment is not always successful. And depending upon the worm burden it can prove to be deadly.Occasionally, a dog with a large number of heartworms may not only have worms in the heart, but also in the caudal vena cava (the large primary vein running from the body back to the heart).  If these worms are not removed surgically, this syndrome causes sudden collapse and death within two to three days.      

Prevention is the key and there are many options available – most of which are a monthly treatment. All treatments are prescription medications and a discussion with your veterinarian is important to determine your pet’s level of exposure and the timing of treatment.

Cats are also susceptible to heartworm infection and although their worm burden is usually lower, it can prove quite deadly and there is no real safe treatment for infected felines. Prevention is the absolute key with cats and it is recommended to treat indoor and outdoor cats if you live in an endemic area.

Dr. Mortimer earned his degree from Iowa State University. He received a B.A. in Biology from Baylor University, and completed an internship in Small Animal Emergency Medicine and Surgery in Rochester, New York. His interests include internal medicine and surgery, including minimally invasive surgery (endoscopy and laparoscopy).

“Above all, I have a strong interest in people and animals. The relationship between my patients and their owners is the reason I am in this profession.”

When away from the practice, he spends most of his time having fun with his family (his wife Kristie, three children, three cats and one “Labrador non-retriever”. Personal interests include fly-fishing, hiking, gardening and travel.

Seattle Veterinary Associates was founded in 1971 by Dr. Sanford Olson, Dr. Donald Canfield, and Dr. Stephen Jones. In 1971, the original practice opened its doors at the current location of Queen Anne Animal Clinic. Coupled with our considerate expansion and the advancement of our medical capabilities at all our hospitals, we are proud to be providing the highest quality veterinary care to pets and their families. SVA is comprised of four locations: Queen Anne Animal Clinic, Green Lake Animal Hospital, Ravenna Animal Hospital, and Northwest Veterinary Hospital.

With respect to the State of Washington, we currently do not see an incidence rate that justifies routine use of preventatives. However, if you are traveling out of state or live in the southern part of the state a conversation with your veterinarian is strongly advised.

For more information on Heartworm, please visit the Companion Animal Parasite Council website  or the American Heartworm Society’s website.

Jeb Mortimer, DVM

Hiking with your dog in and around Seattle

One of the benefits of living in Seattle is our incredible access to the great outdoors. Hiking with your dog can be a great experience for both you and your pet. Dogs enjoy the excitement of exploring new smells and terrain and the exercise is not only good for their health, but can also help reduce behavioral disorders that result from boredom and inactivity.
There are numerous places to hike with dogs in the greater Seattle area.  Below are several resources to help you find dog-friendly hikes in the region.

• Explorer Dog
• Washington Trails Association
• Best Hikes with Dogs:  Western Washington by Dan Nelson
• Best Hikes with Dogs:  Inland Northwest by Craig Romano

Here are some tips to make sure that both you and your four-legged friend are safe while hiking.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Research your trail before heading out. Make sure that dogs are allowed on the trail and check requirements for leashing.
National Parks: Rules at individual parks may vary, but in general, pets are only allowed in U.S. National Parks along roadways, in developed areas and in campgrounds, and must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet in length, caged or crated at all times. Pets are not permitted inside buildings, on most trails, on beaches, or in the backcountry.
National Forests: Pets are allowed in U.S. National Forests, but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times while in developed recreation areas and on interpretive trails. Most other areas within the National Forests do not require your dog to be on a leash, but they should be under your control at all times. Pets are not permitted in swimming areas or sanitary facilities.
State Parks: Rules vary for State Parks, so it is important to check the regulations for the individual park before heading out. Per the Washington State Park website, pets are allowed in most state parks but must be under physical control at all times on a leash no more than eight feet long. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.

CHOOSE YOUR TRAIL

Research the terrain and potential hazards of the trail. Make sure that your pet is in appropriate physical condition for the hike. Just like you wouldn’t run a marathon without training, don’t expect your couch potato pooch to be ready for10-mile hike without adequate training.

TRAIL ETIQUETTE

Be considerate and maintain control of your pet at all times. Even if the trail does not require a leash, other hikers or mountain bikers may not share your enthusiasm for an unleashed pet. An unleashed pet can be frightening and could potentially cause injuries to other users of the trail. Control of your dog is also important for the safety of your pet.  Wild animal encounters, traumatic injuries or loss of your dog can be avoided by keeping your pet on a leash or under strict voice control. Rattlesnakes, bears and coyotes have all been seen in this area – a surprise encounter with one of these critters could be deadly for your pet.

DOG POOP

Yes, dog poop is biodegradable, but nobody wants to be the next one along the trail to step in it. In addition, even well cared for pets can carry parasites such as giardia that can be transmitted to humans or other animals.  Pet waste should be disposed of in the same way that you dispose of human waste. Either pick it up and pack it out or bury it at least 200 feet from any trail, campsite or water source.

IDENTIFY YOUR PET

Proper identification of a pet is the most effective tool we have to ensure that a lost pet can make it home safely. Ideally, all pets should wear a collar tag AND be microchipped.   Before you leave, make sure that the phone number on the tag is correct. Also, check the registration on your microchip – make sure that your contact information is up-to-date.  You may also want to list your veterinarian as a secondary contact – most veterinary offices keep the chip ID number as part of the medical record and may be able to assist you in getting a lost pet home safely.

WATER AND OTHER SUPPLIES

Dogs need water too!  Make sure that you bring enough clean water both for you and your pet. A source for water may not be available on the trail. If it is, please consider that many of our water sources are often contaminated by parasites such as giardia or by overgrowth of algal organisms that can cause toxicity to your pet.  Treat or purify the water for your pet in the same way that you would for yourself.  Bring a collapsible water bowl to make sure that your pet has a clean, safe place from which to drink.

FIRST AID AND OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

Pad/foot injuries and lacerations are two of the most common injuries we see in pets out on the trail. First aid supplies, such as bandaging supplies or butterfly band-aids may be helpful as temporary first aid for minor wounds. Very serious injuries such as heat stroke and exertional rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown resulting from excessive activity) can also occur out on the trail. 
The best treatment for these is prevention – use common sense when deciding how far and how fast to push your pet.  Dogs cannot sweat to remove heat – the main way that dogs cool down is by panting. If your pet does seem to be overheating (rectal temperature > 103.5), have your pet stop to rest in a shady spot. Make sure your pet has plenty of water to drink.  If possible, apply cool water to the pet, paying special attention to the feet (dogs only sweat through their footpads) and to the groin area. Take your pet to the nearest emergency clinic as soon as possible – the potential side effects that result from overheating can be deadly to your pet!

DOGGIE BOOTS

If you will be hiking over very rocky or icy terrain, you may want to get your dog used to wearing booties before the trip. This may help to prevent cuts and injuries to the pads and can be very helpful in snow, which tends to clump in the hair between the pads, causing discomfort and cold feet. It is typical for dogs not to seem terribly appreciative of their new footwear at first, but start with very short sessions, gradually increasing the time that your pet is wearing the booties. There are many different styles and options available – look for a set with a thicker, waterproof sole that can be fastened comfortably, but securely around the dog’s legs.

DOGGIE PACKS

Depending on the size and fitness of your four-legged friend, he or she may be able to help carry some of the load by wearing a doggie pack. Make sure that the pack is fitted properly and that your pet has had the opportunity to become accustomed to carrying the pack before you go. Dogs can generally carry between 10-25% of their body weight, but this will vary greatly based on the conditioning and strength of your pet. When selecting a pack, consider the potential weather conditions – if rain is a possibility, a waterproof pack would be useful.

HAVE FUN!

Lastly, have fun with your pet! Hiking with your pet can be fun and rewarding!

Dr. Julie Irwin, VMD was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. She attended Cornell University, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree with a dual major in Mathematics and Biology. She then attended the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 1998. Julie and Steve met in veterinary school and were married shortly after graduation. Julie’s other interests include rowing, cross-country skiing and hiking. She and Steve, along with their three children, have recently relocated to Seattle and are enjoying exploring the Pacific Northwest.
Seattle Veterinary Associates was founded in 1971 by Dr. Sanford Olson, Dr. Donald Canfield, and Dr. Stephen Jones. In 1971, the original practice opened its doors at the current location of Queen Anne Animal Clinic. Coupled with our considerate expansion and the advancement of our medical capabilities at all our hospitals, we are proud to be providing the highest quality veterinary care to pets and their families. SVA is comprised of four locations: Queen Anne Animal Clinic, Green Lake Animal Hospital, Ravenna Animal Hospital, and Northwest Veterinary Hospital.

Source: Seattle Dog Spot 
http://www.seattledogspot.com/blog/dog-blog/post/hiking-with-your-dog-in-and-around-seattle