Signs Your Cat Has Anxiety and How to Treat It

Posted on January 4, 2023 at 5:00 pm.

Cats can be mysterious, so it can be difficult to spot changes in their behavior. Cat anxiety takes many forms, and can stem from a variety of triggers and situations. At the same time, it’s important to rule out physical illness when a new behavior presents.

The qualified veterinary staff at West Park Animal Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio, can examine your cat and determine whether anxious behaviors have a physical cause or require behavioral interventions. Here, we discuss some telltale signs of cat anxiety and possible treatment options.

What Are the Signs of Cat Anxiety?

Anxiety is related to fear. Similarly to humans, cats and other pets can develop anxieties based on experiences. If your cat is stressed, it may be remembering incidents or situations that caused discomfort or alarm. And corresponding incidents may re-trigger those memories and reactions. Cats will take action to express their anxiety, or they may adopt unusual behaviors in an attempt to calm themselves.

Once you become aware of these types of changes in your cats, you should note when they started, plus any incident that may have elicited the behavior. All of this information will be helpful when meeting with your veterinarian. Here are some behaviors that may signal cat anxiety, stress, or illness:

Change in normal mood
Aggressiveness
Destructive scratching
Guarded body posture
Hiding
Avoiding certain areas and/or people
Following owners more often
Elimination outside the litter box
Excessive grooming
Loss of fur
Vocalization
Changes in appetite
Lethargy
Vomiting
Diarrhea

Determining the Cause of Cat Anxiety

When you notice these changes, your primary concern will likely be fixing your cat’s behavioral problems. Taking your cat to an appointment at West Park Animal Hospital for veterinary services is a good first step to rule out any potential health concerns. The doctor will carefully examine your pet and gather information about the behavior and any recent changes in their environment. Depending on the behaviors displayed, tests may be recommended by their veterinarian.

If your cat is physically healthy, it’s time to determine the cause of its anxiety. Finding out exactly what the behavior entails will help our veterinarians understand the cause. For example, if your cat is hiding more than usual, it may need a quieter environment. If it’s grooming itself to the point of harm, it may need more exercise or fresh air.

Treatments for Cat Anxiety

When looking for the best treatment for anxiety, start by seeing if the environment can be altered to help calm your cat. If a new piece of furniture or room layout is causing cat anxiety, perhaps the cat will adjust over time. Other solutions might be providing a vertical space for the cat to climb and get a different, more fun perspective on the room. Play activities in the area may help with familiarization, as well.

If a change in human schedules triggers stress, the cat may need more stimulation during the times you are at home, helping them to rest when the house is empty. You may also want to try treat puzzles or games that are safe to leave out unattended while you are away.

Prescription Medications

However, some cat anxiety behaviors are dangerous, such as aggressive fighting or biting. While others, such as constant vocalization or elimination outside of the litterbox, are just disruptive to our daily routine. Depending on the case, these symptoms can be treated with prescription medications, such as anti-anxiety drugs or tricyclic antidepressants.

These medications may take some time to start working, or for the cat to become accustomed to them. Dosages often need to be adjusted, sometimes more than once. Drugs can also have side effects, including changes to appetite, nausea, restlessness, constipation, dry eyes, excessive thirst, and dizziness.

Over-the-Counter Aids

There are other types of treatments for cat anxiety, including calming collars that utilize pheromones to affect your pet’s mood. Diffusers, herbal supplements, flower essences, and other aids are also available. Ask your veterinarian for advice before using any medication or supplement for your cat.

Expert Veterinary Guidance Is Available

Pet owners have excellent resources for diagnosing and treating cat anxiety in West Park, North Olmsted, Berea, Rocky River, Lakewood, Fairview Park, and Cleveland, OH, as well as the surrounding areas. The compassionate, experienced staff members at West Park Animal Hospital offer your pet continuous care, from kittenhood to senior status. Additionally, our in-house laboratory is available for any necessary testing. If your pet needs care or is experiencing cat anxiety, contact us today.

What Is the Best Age to Neuter or Spay Your Dog?

Posted on December 4, 2022 at 3:38 pm.

Written by seoaccounts@advance.net

In the U.S., it is common practice to have your dogs spayed or neutered if you’re not looking to breed them. In fact, according to a 2021-2022 survey by the American Pet Products Association, 78% of dog owners have spayed or neutered their dogs.

This routine practice was due to animal shelters and veterinarians, like West Park Animal Hospital in Cleveland, OH, coming together to help decrease the number of unwanted animals that would wind up being euthanized.

If you have a dog, you may be wondering when it is time to spay or neuter them.

When to Neuter a Dog

In male dogs, the signs of sexual maturity include humping, lifting the leg to mark their territory with urine, and overprotectiveness. They can start certain behaviors like these at an early age and the behaviors can become worse as they mature up until 12 months of age or longer for larger breeds. During this time, they are building more muscle while their growth plates are closing. Waiting for musculoskeletal system maturation helps prevent some types of orthopedic injuries later in their life, particularly in larger breeds.

Smaller breeds do not have as many orthopedic problems, so it’s ok to have them neutered earlier at 6 months of age. With larger dogs that are more vulnerable to orthopedic diseases or injuries, it is recommended that you wait to have them neutered until they are 12 to 18 months of age.

When to Spay a Dog

Signs of sexual maturity in female dogs are often like those found in male dogs, but they’ll also start their first heat. This could mean a couple weeks of dripping blood that also comes with unwanted male dog attention (even from miles away) and moodiness. This tends to occur in female dogs around 9 to 10 months of age or older. Smaller breeds can show their first heat signs around 6 months of age. Larger breeds sometimes do not start their first heat until they’re closer to 12 months of age or beyond.

It is recommended that you spay your female dog between 6 to 9 months of age, preferably before a heat cycle to reduce the future risk of mammary cancer.

Benefits of Spaying or Neutering Your Dogs

Many individuals who own dogs feel like their female dogs should be able to experience motherhood at least once or that neutering their male dog will leave them feeling less masculine. Others decide not to spay or neuter their dogs for various other reasons, including:

Fear of anesthesia
Financial constraints
They breed or show their dogs
Not understanding the benefits

Concerns like these may seem valid, but the benefits of having your dog spayed or neutered outweigh the risks of not. For instance, older and breeding dogs that are neutered or spayed can avoid different infections and cancers. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) outlines other benefits, including:

Neutering your male dog helps to eliminate its risk of testicular cancer
Spaying your female dog before heat cycles dramatically reduces its risk of mammary cancer, which is fatal in about 50% of dogs diagnosed
Neutering your male dog can decrease erratic behaviors, such as marking inside your house, roaming to find a mate, or fighting with other males
Spaying your female dog helps to prevent heat cycles and eliminates erratic behavior, crying, yowling, and bloody vaginal discharge

To help tackle pet overpopulation, spaying and neutering young pets once you can do it safely, is recommended.

Have West Park Animal Hospital Spay or Neuter Your Dog

At West Park Animal Hospital in Cleveland, OH, we know how important your dog is to you. We’re committed to helping you keep your dog as healthy as possible. We are AAHA accredited and strive to exceed the highest possible pet care standards there are today. We proudly serve West Park, Rocky River, North Olmsted, Fairview Park, Berea, Cleveland, Lakewood, and surrounding areas. Contact us today to give your beloved dog the proper love and attention it deserves.

Does My Dog Need a Winter Coat? What You Need to Know to Keep Your Pet Warm

Posted on November 4, 2022 at 3:22 pm.

Written by seoaccounts@advance.net

As temperatures drop, people who have dogs may wonder if they should put their precious pet in a dog winter coat to keep them warm and safe during the cold season. If you are one of them, while your heart may be in the right place, you must know that not all dogs require dog jackets and vests.

In some instances, you could actually be doing more harm than good by putting that extra layer on your dog. However, many dogs will benefit from the extra layer under the right conditions. West Park Animal Hospital in Cleveland, OH wants to ensure your dog stays comfortable and safe. Below you’ll learn when it’s necessary and safe to put a dog coat on your canine friend.

Should You Put a Winter Coat on a Dog?

When deciding if you should or shouldn’t put your canine in a winter coat, several factors come into play. For instance, you’ll need to take into account things like:

The temperatures outside
Wind chill
How sunny it is
If your dog can get wet
How long you plan to have them outside (quick potty break vs. winter walk)

When you’re outdoors, the best thing you can do is to always play it safe. While it’s easy to put a dog coat on, sometimes it’s just easier to bring your dog indoors if you see them shivering, acting anxious, or becoming distressed. You should also consider your dog’s health status, age, and acclimation to colder temperatures.

At What Temperatures Should You Use a Dog Coat?

A winter jacket for your dog may be a good idea if there are persistent chilly winds or ice and snow on the ground. Thin-furred, small breeds, senior dogs, and puppies will typically benefit from winter coats when outdoor temperatures get below 32°F (0°C). You must pay close attention to your dog, no matter what breed they are, for signs that they’re cold, when outdoor temperatures drop below 20°F (-6.6°C). If you need to put a winter jacket on, that may be a good sign that your dog should wear one too.

Which Breeds Should Have Dog Jackets and Vests?

As a general rule of thumb, larger breeds with dense, thick coats are already protected fairly well from the cold. This is especially true of Northern breeds, such as Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes, with fur coats that are genetically designed for warmth. However, other types of dogs will require extra protection in extreme weather, including:

Dogs with bellies that sit low to the ground. Even though certain breeds have thick coats, like the Pembroke Welsh Corgis, their bellies sit low to the ground and come in contact with the ice and snow.
Small, miniature, and toy-short-haired breeds. Examples of these breeds are French Bulldogs and Chihuahuas. These types of breeds can’t create and retain sufficient body heat easily which makes it harder to keep themselves warm. A dog coat may be ideal for them.
Lean-bodied, short-haired breeds. These include Whippets and Greyhounds. They will also require extra protection from the cold.
Breeds that have short or clipped hair. Poodles are a good example of this type of breed. They would typically have long hair, but often owners will have them clipped and groomed which can alter their coats’ natural protection.
Senior dogs. Older dogs are more vulnerable to conditions such as a weakened immune system or arthritis that may require them to wear a dog winter coat. Their heat regulation declines as they get older. This makes even thick-coated dogs susceptible and uncomfortable in the cold.

Once you’ve determined if you should put a jacket on your dog, you’ll want to look for a dog coat that will protect their belly and neck. The coat should fit snugly, but not too tight where it restricts your dog’s movement.

Let West Park Animal Hospital Take Care of Your Dog

West Park Animal Hospital in Cleveland, OH is AAHA certified and provides veterinary care that meets or exceeds the absolute highest pet care standards today. We provide expert guidance and services to pet owners to extend their relationship with their beloved pets. Our caring team understands you have questions, including whether or not your beloved pet should wear a dog winter coat, and we are happy to help!

West Park Animal Hospital proudly serves West Park, Berea, Fairview Park, North Olmsted, Rocky River, Cleveland, and Lakewood, as well as other surrounding areas. We offer continuity of care — you can receive emergency care at the same location as the general doctor. Call us at (216) 252-4500 or visit our website to learn how we can help you with all of your dog’s needs.

Is My Cat Fat? Reasons You Should Be Worried About Weight

Posted on October 4, 2022 at 1:12 pm.

Written by Anna

When people have a feline pet in the home, it’s only natural to think of them as a beloved member of the family. Of course, it’s common for people to want to express the love they have for their cat in the form of extra treats and a food bowl that’s always filled with their cat’s favorite food. Over time, however, with the 24/7 availability of food, coupled with extra treats and a lack of consistent exercise, more than a few cats will begin to put on weight, to the point where they’re considered obese. If you’re concerned that your furry feline has developed issues with obesity, the West Park Animal Hospital in Cleveland (also serving the North Olmsted, Berea, Rocky River, Lakewood, and Fairview Park areas) wants to help.

Obese Cats Have Grooming Difficulties

Cats are fastidious animals, and their ability to regularly clean and groom their skin and fur is especially important to them. Normally, healthy cats can keep their fur and skin in good condition through their instinct for self-grooming. With obese cats, however, this may not necessarily be the case. The more excess weight cats carry, the more difficult it is for them to perform their daily grooming.

A particularly troublesome issue may arise in obese cats because they often have difficulty grooming themselves after using the litter box. Over time, dried feces can build up on the fur around the rectum area, making it difficult, or even impossible, for a cat to maintain the high levels of cleanliness that help it feel healthy, happy, and relaxed. In particular, obese long-haired cats may have great difficulty in grooming themselves after elimination. Eventually, they may develop matted fur that emits a strong odor due to the dried feces tangled in their fur.

Cat Obesity and Joint Issues

Much like people, cats who are overweight for a long time may begin to develop joint issues. The excess weight they must carry with every step eventually takes its toll on their joints. Over time, an obese cat is much more likely to develop joint problems such as arthritis and other degenerative issues. The inability to move quickly, jump, and otherwise move their body normally only exacerbates the problem, making it likely they’ll gain even more weight.

Obese Cats and Diabetes

It may come as a surprise, but like humans, cats can also develop diabetes. Overweight cats are susceptible to developing insulin resistance, which can eventually lead to the development of diabetes. Feline diabetes is a serious illness. Left untreated, it can lead to life-threatening complications or even early death. A diagnosis of feline diabetes may also mean the cat’s owner will need to give their cat regular insulin injections.

Liver Issues and the Obese Cat

Obesity can also lead cats to develop fatty liver (hepatic lipidosis). This is a serious condition that may occur after an overweight cat has a reduced appetite, perhaps because of encountering a stressful situation such as moving to a different home, or the introduction of another pet. If an overweight cat abruptly stops eating, its excess fat is brought to the liver for nourishment. This excess fat can become trapped within the liver, which in turn causes damage and, in some cases, liver failure.

How to Help Your Overweight Cat

If you think your furry feline is overweight, it’s not a good idea to severely decrease the amount of food they eat every day. If you suspect your cat may be carrying extra weight, the best way to start them on the road back to good health and vitality is a visit with a professional veterinarian.

Having your cat evaluated by one of our caring staff members can help you determine whether your cat is truly overweight. If one of our staff decides your cat needs to lose weight, they can provide you with a measurable weight-loss plan to help you set healthy, obtainable weight goals for your cat. Our highly-trained staff can also evaluate your cat’s skin and fur to determine if they’re still able to groom themselves properly, or if they need additional assistance.

Our veterinarians can also provide suggestions on how to encourage your cat to become more active. Sometimes encouraging a cat to play is as simple as putting a little stimulating catnip in a large paper bag and letting them bat the outside of the bag, so they can pretend they’re catching a mouse or some other type of prey. Cats also love to play with strings and toys filled or rubbed with catnip. Another way to encourage play is to put some of their food inside a special food ball that encourages a cat to put forth effort to obtain the food.

Beyond increasing your cat’s activity levels, the other key to combatting cat obesity is to reduce the amount of food they eat or perhaps try different food. Our veterinarians can provide you with expert guidance on the optimal food that will help your cat lose excess weight. We also offer tips and suggestions on how much and how often you should be feeding your cat.

Have Your Cat Evaluated at West Park Animal Hospital

Here at West Park Animal Hospital, we understand the importance of the relationship between people and their pets. We want to do our part to extend that relationship as long as possible by providing expert guidance and the best possible services for pets and their owners. Our practice is AAHA certified, which means our veterinary care meets or exceeds the highest possible standards available in pet care today. We proudly serve West Park, North Olmsted, Berea, Rocky River, Lakewood, Fairview Park, Cleveland, and surrounding areas.

To schedule an obesity evaluation for your furry feline, please contact us today.

Male Cat Urinary Blockage: Everything You Need to Know and How to Prevent the Condition

Posted on September 4, 2022 at 7:36 pm.

Written by seoaccounts@advance.net

Any cat parent with a male cat can tell you that a urinary blockage is a serious thing that should be dealt with immediately. But how can you tell when a blockage occurs? There are certain symptoms and signs that might indicate your male cat is experiencing this condition. Whether you need treatment or want to prevent it altogether, a trip to West Park Animal Hospital may be a good idea either way. If you are uncertain how this condition manifests, there are certain symptoms to be aware of. Here is what you need to know about urinary issues in your male cat.

What Causes Urinary Blockage in Male Cats?

Neutered male felines are more likely to experience urinary blockage since their urethras are narrower. Their urethras may be extremely thin to the point where muscle spasms in the urethra can prevent proper urine flow.

The urethra of a male cat can also become blocked by urethral plugs, sludge, or by tiny urethral stones. Additionally, urinary blockage in cats can be caused by consuming foods with a high magnesium content or an underlying disease known as feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC).

What Are Some Symptoms of Urinary Blockage in Male Cats?

A common sign of a urinary blockage in male cats is constant trips to the litter box where no urination occurs. You may also notice that your cat is more irritable than usual or is making noises that are out of the ordinary when trying to urinate. If the urinary blockage persists, an electrolyte discrepancy in your cat’s body will lead to a depressed state, decreased appetite, and vomiting. You may also notice that your cat is hiding or trying to avoid human interaction as much as possible.

Treating Urinary Blockage in Male Cats

Treatment can be successful if this is caught early enough. Your male cat will need to be hospitalized if it has a complete urinary blockage. The cat will receive intravenous fluids to remedy the electrolyte disparity, and a urinary catheter will be placed under general anesthesia to remove the blockage and allow effective bladder emptying. The catheter will be left for a couple of days, allowing the urethra to heal and your cat to recover.

Once your feline is urinating well on his own, you can take him home. Most cats are usually in the hospital for multiple days. Depending on what was causing the blockage, the doctor may prescribe several medications for your cat. These medications may include painkillers, antibiotics, and medicine to help the urethra relax.

Preventing Urinary Blockage in Male Cats

Regrettably, if your male cat has experienced a urethral blockage, there is a high chance that this will happen again. The good news is that there are certain steps that a cat parent can take to minimize this risk.

First and foremost, water intake is essential to preventing urinary blockage and flushing debris out of your cat’s system. You can try installing a drinking fountain for your cats to encourage water intake. You can also add a little tuna juice to a bowl of water to give it some flavor that your cats are sure to enjoy. Consider switching to canned food if your cat’s diet primarily consists of dry food.

Proper nutrition can help to prevent urinary blockage in male cats. If your feline has already experienced urethra health issues, a therapeutic diet may be vital in helping dissolve the crystals or reduce the chances of forming new crystals, leading to better urinary health. You can buy therapeutic food from a veterinarian. Ensure you strictly adhere to the doctor’s instructions regarding this therapeutic diet.

Does Stress Play a Role in Male Cat Urinary Blockage?

Stress plays a significant role in male cat urinary blockage. Thus, you must ensure you keep your cat as stress-free as possible. Cats are prone to stress-induced urinary health issues, including urethral spasms and cystitis, which can lead to urinary blockage. Creating a stress-free environment for your cat can reduce its chances of developing urinary health issues, including blockage.

Stress may be caused by:

Boredom
The presence of many cats in your household leads to competition for resources (for instance, competition for water and food or time at a litter box).
Bullying from other cats
A dirty litter box
A shift in the environment (for instance, the shift that occurred during the covid-19 lockdown when cat owners were now constantly indoors)
Other things such as visitors or renovations may cause your cat to become stressed out.

What can you do to prevent stress? Here are some tips that should help reduce stress levels in your cat.

Buy your cat some toys to keep them happy
Ensure you have more than enough litter boxes around the house so your cats are not competing for one litter box and keep these litter boxes as clean as possible.
Ensure you have at least one more water or food bowl than your cats. After all, no one likes sharing a plate with other people.
Give your feline a cat condo or perch. Place these condos up high so your cat has privacy and can see everything happening in your home
Speak to your veterinarian about therapeutic food that can help to reduce your cat’s stress levels

Bring Your Cat to West Park Animal Hospital

For cat parents in West Park, North Olmsted, Berea, Rocky River, Lakewood, Fairview Park, and Cleveland, seeing your kitty in anguish caused by a urinary blockage can be heartbreaking. Fortunately, a urinary blockage can be treatable, and the staff here at West Park Animal Hospital will take good care of your beloved cat. Contact us today and let us determine the best treatment plan for your feline friend.

Thunder Jacket for Dogs: Everything You Need to Know

Posted on August 4, 2022 at 11:26 am.

Written by seoaccounts@advance.net

Many dogs are impacted by thunderstorms, fireworks, and other noisy events. These loud booms and scary sounds may make your dog feel nervous and sometimes lead to shaking, panting, hiding, and whining. Pet owners with dogs who are sensitive to these loud sounds may want a non-medication solution to help soothe their dog’s anxiety during storms and other stressful events. Here, we’ll explain how the thunder jacket for dogs can help calm your anxious canine.

Understanding the Thunder Jacket for Dogs

Thunder jackets for dogs, also sometimes referred to as thundershirts and thunder vests, are basically a swaddle for your pup. They are typically made of a soft and thick material that wraps tightly around your dog’s torso with snaps, buckles, or Velcro on the sides. Their purpose is to apply gentle pressure on your dog, providing a feeling of security and relieving their anxiety. The idea is similar to people using compression or weighted blankets to calm and de-stress. Thunder jackets come in an assortment of styles, but they all accomplish the same thing for your pup.

When to Use a Thunder Jacket on Your Dog

Contrary to their name, thunder jackets aren’t only used for stress brought on by thunderstorms. They work great for any stressful event and can relieve dog anxiety in many scenarios. For example, you may want to put a thunder jacket on your dog if they become easily stressed or express fear in the following situations:

Trips to the vet
Going to the groomer
Fireworks
Construction or loud road work near your home
Large crowds in the home (parties, holidays)
Separation anxiety
Windstorms

Some ways your dog may exhibit stress during situations like these include heavy panting, pacing back and forth, barking non-stop, hiding or trying to get into small spaces, and shaking. If you notice your dog displaying any of these behaviors and believe it may be due to fear or anxiety from noises or events, you can gently approach them with a treat to gain their trust, and then calmly place the thunder vest around them. If you aren’t sure whether your dog is nervous due to an event like the ones stated above, or you think it may be something more serious, you should always reach out to your veterinarian.

Familiarizing Your Dog with the Thunder Jacket

Although thunder jackets can be extremely beneficial and successful in calming a dog’s nerves, adjusting to the vest comes with time and practice. As with anything new, it will take time for your pet to get accustomed to the clothing. Instead of suiting up your already-anxious dog in a thunder vest during a storm or stressful event, try the following:

Test it during non-stressful situations: Put the jacket on your dog for a few minutes when they are relaxed. This will help get them used to the jacket and make it more familiar and comfortable when they need it.
Don’t force it: If your dog seems uncomfortable in the jacket, you shouldn’t force it on them. Take it off for a few moments and try it again later. You don’t want to amplify their stress.
Utilize positive reinforcement methods: Offer your dog treats or pets when you take the vest out. This strategy allows them to associate the thunder jacket with rewards.

Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy with West Park Animal Hospital

Pet owners in West Park, North Olmsted, Berea, Rocky River, Lakewood, Fairview Park, Cleveland, and the surrounding areas in Northeast Ohio who want to know more about thunder jackets and vests for their dogs can turn to West Park Animal Hospital for help. You can also visit our new clients page to learn all about getting care for your pets at our facility. For more information on thunder jackets for dogs, additional pet resources, or any other questions, contact us today.

Weed Killers and Pets: How to Safely Manage Your Lawn

Posted on July 5, 2022 at 10:20 am.

Written by Anna

Herbicides and weed killers are great for ridding your yard of nuisance plants. However, pet owners must consider the risks of using these products. Some herbicides can be extremely harmful to your precious pup and may even become deadly if used incorrectly. Here, West Park Animal Hospital walks you through some of the weed killers that are safe for animals and the key things to look for when it comes to herbicides and pets.

Is Weed Killer Safe for Dogs and Cats?

Today, it may not seem too difficult to find herbicides labeled “pet safe.” However, it’s important to note that even if a chemical may say it’s safe or gentle on pets, there should be more specific details to support that claim. Some things to consider when using a weed killer in your yard include:

Over-Calculate Wait Times

Any type of chemical can leave particles behind that may stick around for longer than you think. Studies show that even though most weed killer bottles say that you and your pets should keep off sprayed lawns for only 6 to 24 hours, chemical residue can linger on surfaces for up to 48 hours after application. This study was noted to be true even if it rained. Regardless of whether a product claims to be pet safe, it doesn’t hurt to overestimate the wait time after application.

Organic or All Natural Doesn’t Always Mean Pet Safe

As briefly stated, the labels on many herbicides and lawn chemicals should be closely examined. It’s tricky to know what products are truly “safe” and which ones may be misleading. According to the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC), even some products that claim to be “organic” or “all-natural” still may contain harmful ingredients, such as permethrin. This is a commonly used chemical in products labeled “all-natural”. NPIC’s permethrin fact sheet explains the risks of using products with this ingredient.

While there are a variety of things to think about when searching for pet-safe herbicides, the bottom line is that there is more research to be done than what may be in front of you. We understand that this can be overwhelming for many pet parents, which is why West Park Animal Hospital is happy to assist and share helpful pet resources online.

Choosing Herbicides That Are Safe For Pets

Although the most pet-safe way to rid your property of weeds is to remove them by hand, we understand that it may not be very practical, especially on large yards. For a totally chemical-free route, the American Kennel Club recommends trying to control weeds by planting native grasses. It has been found that many native grasses are more likely to resist weeds since they are bred to be suitable for the region. However, if this is not a plausible choice for you or you prefer a quicker solution, some types of pet-safe weed killer include:

Bonide BurnOut Fast-Acting Weed and Grass Killer: This weed killer is a good choice because it contains few ingredients, all of which are considered safe for pets when used as directed. This formula is made using citric acid and clove oil.
Green Gobbler Vinegar Weed and Grass Killer: This vinegar-based herbicide is a safe choice when used as directed. It is derived from USA-grown corn, OMRI-certified for organic use, and contains no dyes or chemicals.
ECO Garden Pro Organic Weed Killer: This formula is made with organic white vinegar and Himalayan rock salt. Not only is this one safe for dogs and cats when used as directed, but it is also safe for bees, fish, and livestock.

These are just a few choices that have received positive feedback from animal owners, but some pets have different sensitivities. It is always a good idea to consult a veterinarian if you are hesitant about a product.

Manage Your Lawn While Keeping Your Pets Safe

By carefully selecting a weed killer that’s safe for dogs and cats, you can enjoy a weed-free lawn and a healthy pet. Leave it to the knowledgeable crew at West Park Animal Hospital to provide you with the reassurance and information you need to keep your pets safe. We proudly serve pet owners in Ohio, including West Park, North Olmsted, Berea, Rocky River, Lakewood, Fairview Park, and Cleveland, as well as other areas.

If you would like to make your furry friend a patient at our hospital, we’re accepting new clients. For more information, contact us today.

What to Do When Your Pet Has an Emergency

Posted on June 13, 2022 at 3:00 am.

Written by seoaccounts@advance.net

From allergic reactions to sudden injuries, you just never know when your faithful companion may need urgent care. While pet owners hope an emergency never arises, it’s always best to be prepared just in case. At West Park Animal Hospital, we provide critical care to dogs and cats. Here, we’ll detail some of the things you should do in the event of a pet emergency.

Stop and Assess the Situation

The first thing to remember is to stay calm. Pets often take cues from their owners, and outward panic may cause them to become fearful, as well. The calmer your pet is, the easier they’ll be for you to handle in situations like this. Also, it will make it easier for you to pick up on subtle symptoms that may be important for your veterinarian to know.

Next, do a quick assessment of your pet. Something like a laceration or broken bone may be easier to see, but an internal illness may be harder to pick up on. Paying attention to your animal’s cues and behavior changes will give your veterinarian a general basis for testing or diagnosis when you arrive.

Call Your Pet’s Veterinarian

True pet emergencies require immediate intervention. No matter what’s wrong with your dog or cat, their veterinarian will know how to handle the situation. They’re familiar with your pet’s medical history and can make informed recommendations. When you call, be ready to communicate any obvious or possible symptoms to the veterinarian or assistant on the line.

If your pet has swallowed something potentially dangerous, make sure to call your veterinarian very quickly. If you can’t reach the veterinarian your animal usually sees, there may be other options, such as a local emergency animal hospital or an animal poison control center, such as:

The sooner your pet receives the help they need, the easier they’ll be to treat. It increases the likelihood of a more positive outcome and reduces the risk of complications. It’s also important to know that pets under stress may be more aggressive toward people, so take care when getting them ready to go to the clinic.

Signs of a Pet Emergency

Your pet could exhibit any number of telltale signs in an emergency. For many pet owners, the cause might be obvious, such as eating something harmful. In other cases, symptoms can seemingly arise out of nowhere. They widely vary based on the cause and range from subtle to severe. Common signs to look for in your dog or cat include:

Choking
Excessive bleeding
Vomiting
Blood in diarrhea
Obvious pain or limping
Seizures
Eye injury
Fluid refusal for more than 24 hours
Unconsciousness
Anxious behavior
Excessive coughing
Rapid or difficulty breathing
Inability to deliver offspring

For pet owners familiar with basic first aid, it may help stabilize your animal before they reach the clinic. However, this should not replace emergency care from a qualified professional. Pet owners should still call their vet right away and follow any instructions provided. When you arrive, your vet will assess the issue and may use pain management techniques to help control your pet’s discomfort.

After your pet is stable, your veterinarian will review their treatment plan. This may involve temporary medication or long-term rehab/orthopedics, depending on the extent of the condition.

Being a Prepared Pet Owner

As your pet’s primary caregiver and preferred companion, they rely on you to know what to do when they need help. A big part of owning a pet is being prepared in the event of a true medical emergency. Here are some important phone numbers to remember:

- Pet’s veterinarian (they should be your first call)

Local emergency vet clinic
Animal poison control

Some pet owners learn pet CPR from organizations like American Red Cross, how to stop bleeding, and other basic first aid techniques. Pet owners may also want a muzzle on hand to help prevent their pet from biting others on the way to the clinic or while there. That way, your vet can effectively treat them as soon as you arrive.

Your veterinarian can offer emergency information during any wellness visit, so you have an idea of what to expect at the clinic under these circumstances.

Emergency Care at West Park Animal Hospital

The team at West Park Animal Hospital is prepared to handle a pet emergency. Our state-of-the-art facility uses leading technology to diagnose urgent ailments. We proudly serve the residents of West Park, North Olmsted, Berea, Rocky River, Lakewood, Fairview Park, and Cleveland, Ohio, as well as the surrounding areas. For more information, contact us today.

The Dangers of Ignoring Your Pet’s Pain

Posted on January 4, 2022 at 5:01 pm.

Written by seoaccounts@advance.net

For many pet owners, it can be difficult to spot when a pet is in pain at first and realize that their quality of life has deteriorated. Fortunately for concerned pet owners, West Park Animal Hospital, serving Cleveland, Ohio, specializes in understanding pet behaviors that may indicate problems. Here, we discuss some indicators to help pet owners better understand pet pain management and the risks associated with waiting too long to seek care.

Why Pet Owners Should Never Overlook Their Pet’s Pain

Ignoring your pet’s pain, whether it is on purpose or by accident, can lead to more serious outcomes for your pet. Reasons you should look for warning signs include:

Relieving the pain your pet feels: If your pet is showing constant signs of pain, there is a reason. By paying attention to these signs, you can get your pet the proper treatment to help ease their discomfort and ensure overall wellness.
Dismissal won’t make your pet’s pain go away: Assuming the issue it will heal on its own can be dangerous. Your pet’s well-being is important, and pain may be a sign medical attention is needed.
Additional medical conditions may arise: Untreated pain can cause other severe medical conditions to occur. For example, an untreated ligament injury in your pet can be extremely painful and may lead to joint disease over time.

Signs to Be Mindful of When Your Pet Is In Pain

As a survival instinct, your pet may be prone to concealing signs of pain, injury, or disease. They apply this tactic to prevent themselves from being perceived as weak and an easy target for predators. However, even though some pets are conditioned to hide their pain, there are still some signs pet owners can watch for, such as:

Antisocial Behavior

If your pet starts showing signs of antisocial or aggressive behavior, it may be due to the pain your pet is feeling. Your pet may be trying to avoid any contact. An easy way to notice this is if your pet no longer runs to greet you at the door. This change in behavior, much like any other change in your pet’s usual behavior, may be a cause for concern for pet owners.

Changes in Typical Habits

Pets that are experiencing pain often sleep more. This may be their attempt to heal or, in extreme cases, a result of them not being able to get up. Pet owners also should monitor their pet’s food and water intake, as difficulty eating can be a result of stomach or dental pain.

Trembling or Shaking

Trembling or shaking is a clear indication that something isn’t right with your pet. These signs may be caused by pain from a very serious condition that will require immediate medical attention. Conditions often associated with these symptoms include kidney disease, poisoning, and pancreatitis.

Trouble with Mobility

If you notice your pet isn’t getting around as well as they used to, it may be more than just the symptoms of old age. Limping and stiffness in your pet may be a sign that pain is occurring and could be the result of an injury or arthritis.

Treat Your Pet’s Pain at West Park Animal Hospital

Whether it’s to treat an acute injury or a chronic condition, the professionals at West Park Animal Hospital specialize in pet pain management. We provide to clients living in West Park, Berea, Fairview Park, Lakewood, North Olmsted, Rocky River, Cleveland, and the surrounding areas exceptional veterinary services. For more information, contact us online or schedule an appointment today.

Grain-Free diets and possible life-threatening complications

Posted on August 9, 2019 at 3:02 pm.

Written by Anna

Choosing the right diet for your pet is a hard decision since there are so many choices, but it is key to their short and long term health. We want to assist pet owners with choosing a diet as best we can by educating them with current research and so, we advise that you review the following article regarding grain-free diets and possible life-threatening consequences.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today, for the first time, publicly identified the pet food brands most frequently associated with cases of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious and potentially fatal heart disease. The vast majority of cases involve dogs, but a few cases involving cats have been reported, as well.

In an update on its investigation into the potential link between certain diets and canine DCM, the FDA listed 16 pet food brands that have been named in 10 or more reports of the disease.

The top three brands are Acana, named in 67 reports; Zignature, named in 64 reports; and Taste of the Wild, named in 53 reports.

Starting in 2014 and through April 30, 2019, the FDA has received reports of 560 dogs and 14 cats diagnosed by veterinarians to have DCM. Of those, 119 dogs and five cats have died.

Not included in the figures are counts from “the many general cardiac reports” the agency received that did not involve a diagnosis of DCM. “However,” the FDA said, “this case information is still valuable, as it may show heart changes that occur before a dog develops symptomatic DCM.”

DCM is a condition resulting in an enlarged, weak heart that cannot pump blood efficiently. Dogs with DCM may tire easily, cough and have trouble breathing. More dramatically, they might exhibit sudden weakness, collapse, faint or die with no warning.

The large majority of reports received by the FDA were made in 2018 and 2019. The agency has been investigating the problem since last year. It announced in July that it had learned of cases of DCM in dogs eating certain pet foods, many labeled as “grain-free” and containing as main ingredients peas, lentils, other legume seeds (known as pulses) and/or potatoes.

While particular dog breeds are known to be genetically predisposed to DCM — breeds such as Doberman pinscher, Great Dane, Newfoundland, boxer, Irish wolfhound and cocker spaniel — many of the affected dogs were not of those breeds. That is what caught veterinary cardiologists’ attention early on.

The cause of the problem is unknown, and most researchers investigating the problem suspect the answer won’t be easy to identify. The FDA cannot say with certainty that diet is the culprit, although in an investigation update posted in February, the agency reported that some dogs diagnosed with DCM improved simply by changing their diet. Other investigators have reported similar observations.

At that time and again today, the FDA said: “Based on the data collected and analyzed thus far, the agency believes that the potential association between diet and DCM in dogs is a complex scientific issue that may involve multiple factors.”

Because of the uncertainty, the agency has not asked the companies behind the implicated brands to recall them. “We have shared case report information with these firms so they can make informed decisions about the marketing and formulation of their products,” the FDA wrote in a Q&A on its canine DCM investigation.

The agency added, “We are also sharing this information with the public, but encourage pet owners to work with their veterinarians, who may consult with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist, prior to making diet changes.”

In analyzing ingredients and ingredient proportions of the identified diets eaten by affected animals, FDA researchers have found that more than 90% of implicated products were “grain-free,” meaning they did not contain corn, soy, wheat, rice, barley or other grains. Ninety-three percent contained peas and/or lentils.

Early on, some veterinarians investigating the problem posited that novel animal protein sources in diets, such as kangaroo, bison or duck, might be a factor. But in its latest update, the FDA reported: “The most common proteins in the reported diets were chicken, lamb and fish; however, some diets contain atypical protein sources such as kangaroo, duck and bison. No one animal protein source was predominant.”

The FDA said most of the identified foods in the canine cases are dry formulations, but not all. There also are raw food, semi-moist food and wet foods reported.

Although the subject or grain-free diets is still being researched, we recommend avoiding any grain-free diets until more information is discovered. There are special protein and limited ingredient diets, with grain, available for pets with allergies. Talk to your veterinarian about your concerns and the accessible options for your pet before making a decision. As always, make sure to transition your pets to a new diet slowly, over the course of 7-10 days.

*Information from https://news.vin.com/VINNews.aspx?articleId=53973