Answer your pet's questions on National Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day!

7 Questions Your Cat Might Ask 

Cats are great at body language, and you’re probably clear on your cat’s desires…most of the time. But what about those times when you’re just not communicating? Here are a few questions we think a lot of cats have about life with humans.

Question 1: Why do you keep petting me after I’ve told you to stop?

I like being petted, but I have my limits. Or in case you didn’t understand my body language, a twitching tail and sideways ears means, “I’m done. Please stop.” I can’t be blamed if there’s a scratch or bite that follows my warning!

A Good Answer from You

Sorry, kitty. I know now! I’ll keep an eye out for those signs that you’d like your space.

Question 2: Why can’t I have fish at every meal?

I appreciate the occasional tuna juice you give me, but I want my own piece. Fish oil is good for me. It makes my coat soft and improves my brain functions. Plus, I like fish. Like, a lot!

A Good Answer from You

Oh kitty, too much can make you sick! Let’s talk with the veterinarian about treats and snacks that are good for you and can keep you happy.

Question 3: Why do you get upset about me jumping on the counter (or table?)

First off, let’s look at facts. I can jump up there, and I like having the advantage of height. It keeps me out of reach of the dog, plus, you have tasty food there (like fish.) If you really don’t want me on the counter, then give me another high place where I can retreat but still be close to you.

A Good Answer from You

OK. We don’t want your fur in our food. Why don’t we make another place where you can sit, like this shelf or a new cat tree?

Question 4: Why do you yell at me when I sharpen my claws on the big fluffy scratching post you call a couch?

I like to stretch my paws wide, and sometimes my claws catch. Then, I realize it feels so good to stretch. And I can do it while sitting next to you, so that’s a win. Confession: sometimes, when you’re not around, I scratch it to relieve stress. Sorry. Not sorry.

A Good Answer from You

The furniture is expensive. When you scratch it, you ruin it. Here’s proper a scratching post. I’ll even put some treats on it to encourage you to use the post instead of the furniture!

Question 5: Why do you insist on combing me?

I don’t like it, and I can groom myself. Do you see my tail twitching?

A Good Answer from You

Do you see how much fur comes off of you when I comb you? That’s fur that doesn’t coat the furniture, or my clothes, or the floor. I’ll try to keep brushing sessions a bit shorter, and I’ll reward you with chin scratches or treats!

Question 6: Why do you take so many pictures of me?

Sleeping, stretching, playing, cleaning my toes...all of these are all photo opportunities to you. But I’m just living my life. Why so many pictures?

A Good Answer from You

Kitty, you’re cute. And we need to have our own cat photos to post on #catsofinstagram. Do you know you’re up 150 followers? How about I turn off the camera flash and sounds?

Question 7: Why do I have to split your love and attention with the dog?

Actually, why do we have a dog?

A Good Answer from You

We like the dog. You’ll have to learn to get along. But as a family, we pledge to keep an eye out for signs of stress and make sure that you have plenty of space. If need be, we’ll talk with the vet about ways to help you two share the household happily.

You and your cat might have many, many more questions, and you’re always welcome to ask us! Please feel free to reach out on Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day -- or any day!

 

Based on an article that first appeared at GeniusVets

  

Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) What you need to know about CIV!!!

Canine Influenza Virus (CIV)What you need to know about CIV!!! 

Dog Flu is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by two different canine influenza viruses. Unless a dog has already had the illness and recovered, almost every dog exposed to the virus will become infected. Two different strains of canine influenza virus (CIV)  have been isolated in the US. CIV, H3N8 was first reported in 2003, and CIV, H3N2 emerged in March 2015.  Dogs have no natural immunity to canine influenza virus. Therefore, dogs at risk should be vaccinated against both strains. 

What is Canine Influenza Virus?

Dog Flu Outbreak Map
Click to see CIV's outbreak path. 

Canine influenza virus is a very contagious respiratory disease that infects dogs. This virus emerged in the US in early 2004 in the form of the viral strains- H3N8. Vaccinations were created for this strain. In 2015 a new strain developed, H3N2. Today, confirmed cases of H3N8 & H3N2 have been found in all but 4 of our United States. This highly contagious disease began as an isolated episode of respiratory disease in one state, and has now become a nationwide health concern for all dogs. In Florida we have seen cases of both strain since 2016.

The current vaccine available protects again both CIV strands. 

What does CIV cause?

CIV causes a respiratory infection in dogs that is also known as “dog flu”. Common symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge, and frequent coughing that can last for 2 weeks or more. Many dogs have a fever, decreased appetite, and lethargy during the first few days of illness. Some dogs have more serious disease and pneumonia that requires hospital care

How do dogs get CIV infection?

CIV is spread by direct contact with a sick dog and by contact with an environment or people that are contaminated with the virus. Coughing dogs produce invisible virus‐containing mists that travel more than 20 feet in the air, facilitating rapid spread of virus over distances. This type of virus transmission contributes to a rapid increase in coughing dogs in a kennel situation. The virus can survive in the environment (kennel surfaces, food/water bowls, collars/ leashes, toys, beds) or on people’s clothing and hands for 12 to 24 hours before it dies. It is easily killed by hand washing with soap and water, normal laundering of clothing and bedding, and washing food/water bowls and toys with soap and water.

 

What dogs are at risk for CIV?

Most dogs do not have immunity to CIV. This means that dogs of any breed, age or health status will likely be infected if they are exposed to the virus. Dogs at most risk for exposure are those with a social lifestyle and participate in group events or are housed in communal facilities, especially in communities where CIV is circulating. This includes dogs in boarding kennels, day care centers, shelters, dog shows, veterinary clinics, pet stores, grooming parlors, etc. 

What if my dog is diagnosed with CIV?

Dog Flu infection should be suspected in dogs with persistent cough, those with nasal discharge, fever, pneumonia or other clinical signs of more severe respiratory illness.

Most dogs recover at home without any complications. However, because of the increasing prevalence of Dog Flu, the rapid spread of the infection among dogs, and the potential for up to 20% of dogs to have a severe disease course, the most important aspect of care is to keep your dog isolated from all other dogs for 4 weeks. While dogs recover from illness in about 2 weeks, they can remain contagious to other dogs for up to 4 weeks. If you have other dogs or cats in the house, then all of them must be isolated in the home for 4 weeks. Your veterinarian will provide instructions on how to monitor the health of all the pets and when to call about concerns.

The 20% of dogs that progress to a more severe disease course like pneumonia typically have decreased appetite, are very lethargic, and may have labored breathing. These dogs likely need special hospital care for recovery. The mortality rate of canine influenza has been reported to range from 1% to 8% in puppies and older dogs.

What can I do to protect my dog against CIV?

The most important step is to vaccinate your dog against the canine influenza viruses. Just like human flu vaccines, the CIV vaccine may not completely prevent infection but will make it less likely. Additionally, if a vaccinated dog does get infected, the disease is likely to be more mild and of shorter duration. The vaccine can also protect against pneumonia. Talk to your veterinarian about vaccination against CIV and other canine influenza viruses.

Be careful about exposing your dog to events or facilities with other dogs. Knowledge and common sense are your best defenses against canine influenza.

 

February Team Member of the Month- Samantha!!

This month we recognize a team member that shows her commitment to the VCA HAH through her sincere dedication to the care of animals.

Samantha J. joined our team officially in June of last year but was a regular volunteer for many months prior. Coming to us by way of the Humane Society of Broward County-were she still volunteers- she stands out in her role as a part time HAH Vet Assistant.

Always bustling around helping clients and -frankly, anyone that asks- she is depended on greatly by each department. She is forever with a smile and always able to stay above any work place drama!

Her attention to details is appreciated here and we are confident it will help her in her academic pursuit to be a  Zoo Veterinarian. Samantha is someone we believe will continue to make a large impact on the animal world for years to come and it is our pleasure to recognize  her as our February Team Member of the Month!! 


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