OrganizedWisdom Health - Pet Health

Borna Virus

SScroggins — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 20:05:42 GMT

First described in horses in 1660 and 1900, the Borna virus was isolated in 1970 and appeared in humans in 2000. German researchers found that a small but significant number of patients suffering from depression and other mental illnesses had antibodies to the Borna virus, indicating that they had been exposed to and infected with the virus. Some researchers have claimed that up to 50% of depression cases could be attributed to infection with the Borna virus.

Fast Facts:

Although researchers speculate that Borna virus may be responsible for some mental illnesses, it has not yet been proven.
Borna virus has been suggested as a potential cause for some cases of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
In animals, the Borna vius is known to cause behavioral disturbances which resemble human affective disorders.

Visit http://organizedwisdom.com/Borna_Virus

Can Pets Contract the Swine Flu

Jillian884 — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 16:52:29 GMT

You may be worried about your pets contracting swine flu (also known as swine influenza or H1N1), since there has been an increase in the number of people infected lately. To date, there have been no reports of cats or dogs being infected with the flu. Although, it is rare for a virus to cross between different species, the swine flu virus has shown itself to be extremely adaptable and it is possible that it will infect domestic animals in the future. If you own a pot-bellied pig, this animal is at risk for contracting the swine flu. Signs of swine flu in pigs include: coughing, sneezing, discharge from the nose and eyes, and fever.

Fast Facts:

Swine flu is mild in pigs and most will recover without any major complications.
There have been no documented flu transmissions between people and their pets.
In theory, pets could get H1N1, since both H5N1 and H1N1 have avian genes and in the past cats were able to get the avian flu.
It is best to keep your pets indoors to avoid them becoming sick.

Visit http://organizedwisdom.com/Can_Pets_Contract_the_Swine_Flu

Praziquantel

SScroggins — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 20:41:16 GMT

Praziquantel is a medication that is used in both humans and animals to treat parasitic infections. It is commonly used to treat flatworms and intestinal tapeworms. Because the tablets are bitter tasting, it is typically advised that you swallow them quickly with water during a meal. Common side effects associated with praziquantel use include dizziness, headaches, fatigue, nausea, and loss of appetite.

Fast Facts:

Praziquantel may have negative interactions with medications such as nevirapine, efavirenz, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, and corticosteroids.
Alcohol can intensify the side effects of praziquantel, and you should be very careful performing tasks which require altertness while using praziquantel.
Sold under brand name Biltricide.

Visit http://organizedwisdom.com/Praziquantel

Skin Allergies in Cats

KenyottaE — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 02:50:58 GMT

Excessive scratching, licking, and chewing are symptoms of a skin allergy in a cat. Also known as allergic dermatitis, these allergies can be the result of several factors including reactions to food and fleas. To determine if a cat has an allergy, a veterinarian might perform a blood test or skin test on the cat. Once determining the source of the allergy, cats may be given an allergy shot or prescribed antihistamines.

Fast Facts:

Cats are not born with allergies.
Most skin allergies are concentrated around the head and front quarter of the cat.
Skin allergies may result in alopecia, rashes, and swelling.

Visit http://organizedwisdom.com/Skin_Allergies_in_Cats

How to Avoid Holiday Pet Hazards

Jfjkkj — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 01:13:33 GMT

Precaution and prevention are key to helping pets avoid holiday safety hazards. Common holiday hazards include bones, holiday plants, electrical cords, candles, pine needles, and ornaments.

 In addition, festivities and company can be stressful to pets.  Providing a special retreat to escape the commotion can reduce stress and safety risks. With planning and care, both pets and their owners can enjoy a safe holiday season.

Fast Facts:

Cats are especially attracted to tinsel and ingestion can be deadly.
Check electrical cords for any signs of bite marks, or loose or frayed wires, and replace as needed.
Chemicals used to extend the life of a fresh Christmas tree must be safe for pets.
Poisonous holiday plants like mistletoe, holly, ornamental pepper, and Christmas rose must be kept away from pets.
Turkey and other poultry bones can easily splinter and should not be fed to pets.

Visit http://organizedwisdom.com/How_to_Avoid_Holiday_Pet_Hazards

Obesity in Pets

Lmusilek — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 16:47:39 GMT

Obesity is a growing health concern for our pets. Over 48% of all pets in U.S. households are overweight, and 15% are considered obese. Obesity in pets causes many health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and respiratory problems. The best way to prevent or cure obesity is to limit pet treats and exercise your pet daily.

Fast Facts:

In early 2008 Slentrol, the first and only FDA-approved canine weight loss medication, was introduced.
You can increase your pet's health by 50% by decreasing excess weight by 20%.
Pets that maintain an ideal weight live on average 2 years longer than those that are overweight or obese.

Visit http://organizedwisdom.com/Obesity_in_Pets

How to Pick the Best Vet

JRafferty — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 18:19:36 GMT

Choosing the right vet is something that every pet owner should do before they actually need their services. It is common to choose a facility based on location or cost. This may not be best reason for the pet or the owner.

Fast Facts:

Visit the facility and meet the staff.
Inspect the facility, it should be clean.
Ask for references of current customers.
Observe how the pet and veterinarian interact.
Inquire about emergency situations and if the facility provides care when closed.

Visit http://organizedwisdom.com/How_to_Pick_the_Best_Vet

Cherry Eye in Dogs

Mindy6197 — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 14:49:42 GMT

Cherry eye in dogs is caused by a prolapsed gland of the third eyelid. It is most often seen in young dogs, but can affect dogs of all ages. The most common sign is redness and swelling in the infected eye.

Fast Facts:

Can affect all dog breeds.
Usually requires surgery.
Can also be caused by a genetic disorder.

Visit http://organizedwisdom.com/Cherry_Eye_in_Dogs

Small and Exotic Animals Not Recommended for Young Children

AmyS — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 22:52:15 GMT

A new report suggests that young children should not have exotic or small animals as pets. Baby chicks, hamsters, lizard, turtles, and hedgehogs can cause scratches and biting problems, along with carrying diseases. Reptiles and amphibians cause approximately 74,000 causes of salmonella each year. In the wild, rodent like pets are natural carriers of the plague.

Visit http://organizedwisdom.com/Small_and_Exotic_Animals_Not_Recommended_for_Young_Children

Cat Bites and Infections

JRafferty — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 11:53:57 GMT

A cat's mouth is full of germs and bacteria. A bite from a cat is frequently prone to becoming infected. Infections can be transported through the blood to other areas of the body.

Fast Facts:

5-15 percent of total animal bites are received from cats.
Bites to the hand are more likely to become infected.
People who have had their spleens removed are at a higher risk for a type of infection known as capnocytophaga.

Visit http://organizedwisdom.com/Cat_Bites_and_Infections