Flea Allergy Dermatitis

Summer is approaching! While this is great news to our pets and us as we get to enjoy the outdoors, this also means that summer heralds a pest we all hate - fleas!

Dogs and cats commonly get a skin condition known as flea allergy dermatitis (FAD). This means that our pets get an allergic reaction to the saliva that is produced by fleas when it feeds on their blood.

What are the signs that my pet has FAD?

Our pets have an allergic reaction to flea saliva because their immune system reacts with an inflammatory response - this can cause our pets intense itchiness and discomfort. Dogs tend to bite and scratch excessively, and this can lead to redness, hair loss, secondary bacterial infections, and a scaly coat. Most dogs tend to be affected along the back near their tail base, but signs can still occur all over their bodies. Cats tend to be more agile and so can bite and scratch all over the body as well.

I don't see fleas on my pets...does this mean I don't have them?

Definitely not! Adult fleas do not breed on our pets - they instead deposit their eggs in the environment like on our pets' bedding and carpeted floors. This means that while you may not actually see adult fleas on your pet, they may still be in your house and your pet may still have FAD. Up to 95% of fleas exist as larval and pupal stages in the environment, while only 5% are adults. While you may not see flea adults in your pet's coat, this does not mean that fleas aren't bugging them!

What can I do to get rid of fleas?

If you suspect your pet has FAD, seek veterinary attention appropriately. Depending on the severity of lesions, our veterinarians may prescribe medicated shampoos, antibiotics, steroids, or antihistamines, and advise you on the use of flea preventatives for your pets.

The only real long term 'treatment' however, is to keep our pets flea-free as much as possible. This requires attacking fleas at all stages of their life cycle.

 

We first need to pick flea-killing agents which work directly on our pets. Products such as Frontline, Advocate, Advantage, Comfortis, Capstar, and Advantix are examples of these. Using these regularly all throughout the year will ensure our pets are covered. Our veterinarians and nurses can assist you in choosing a product which will best suit your needs.

We then also need to treat the environment. Regular vacuuming of carpets, washing and replacing pet bedding, yard sprays and house fogging can all help keep the flea population in check. The use of insecticide sprays which say 'egg stoppers' on them will also work on eliminating flea eggs - remember to spray under furniture and in quiet, dark corners of the house.

And remember...

Follow all manufacturers' instructions properly! Avoid using permethrin-based flea preventative products on cats, or on dogs which co-habit with cats, as permethrin is highly toxic to them. These products will often say 'Not for use on cats'. When in doubt - please call us and our nurses will be happy to help you! 

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) and Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC)

FLUTD or FIC is one of the most common conditions seen in cats. This condition is very common but always a challenge to determine a definitive cause in each case. Thus, the term 'idiopathic cystitis', meaning bladder inflammation of unknown origin is used to describe this condition. Potential causes include environmental stress, bladder stone, urinary tract infection and crystals. Urine testing and abdominal imaging is usually necessary to help determine the cause of the problem in each case. Urethral blockage (by urethral plugs or crystals) is a common consequence seen in male cats with FLUTD/FIC. It is an emergency if a cat has urethral blockage or commonly called 'blocked bladder'. The blockage could cause damage to kidneys and it is a life- threatening situation if the blockage is not relieved soon. Recurrence of the condition is very common. Early recognition of clinical signs and preventative measures are very important to reduce incident and severity of condition.

Clinical signs of these conditions include: 

-    Blood in urine

-    Increase frequency of urination with small volume of urine produced

-    Pain when urinating

-    Straining to urinate (can sometimes look like the cat is constipated)

-    Urinating in unusual places
If your cat is showing any of the above signs, be sure to call us immediately.

  

Prevention:

-    Increase water intake (drinking fountains, fresh water bowl, wet food diet, special diet)

-    Encourage urination (provide multiple litter trays :  rule of thumb is number of litter trays=     number of cats plus one , provide clean litter trays at all time, place litter trays in quiet places)

-    Reduce stress 

-    Environmental enrichment (regular play time each day)

Pet Health Insurance

Unlike human medicine, there is no 'Medicare' for pets. When our pets become ill, we are worried enough about our pets' health without needing the added stress of finances.

Vets today can offer treatments that were unheard of just a few years ago. Cats and dogs can now receive major surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and even stem cell therapy- just like people. Increasingly sophisticated and costly diagnostic tools, such as CTs and MRIs, are also becoming more popular. These tools not only detect problems that once would have gone unnoticed and untreated, but often boost the cost of the veterinary bills.

         

No one plans for their pet getting sick or being injured in an accident. With pet insurance, you don't have to worry about being faced with unexpected medical bills and you will be able to concentrate on the best possible care for your pet if the unexpected happens.

Many pet insurance companies are beginning to offer more flexibility to customize your coverage, to control your monthly premium and the level of coverage that suits you the best.

Petplan is exclusively offering Casula Veterinary Hospital and Elizabeth Drive Animal Hospital to sign up your puppies and kittens (from 8 weeks 12 months of age) for 4 weeks FREE Pet Health Insurance. Please talk to one of our friendly staff about signing up a pet insurance for your precious pets

Pet Dental Health Month Does your pet have bad breath?

Contrary to popular opinion, bad breath in dogs and cats is not normal but is in fact an early warning sign of dental disease. Just like humans, pets that don't receive regular dental care will collect plaque and tartar on their teeth that will, in turn cause gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Dental disease can cause significant tooth and nerve root pain. Although we often race off to the dentist for any pain associated with our own teeth, often our pet's teeth can go unnoticed for months or years. Meanwhile, ongoing dental pain affects a pet's appetite, their ability to chew and ultimately, results in a poorer quality of life.

Dental disease may even become so serious that your pet may need extended medical treatment. Ongoing periodontal disease may allow large amounts of bacteria to enter the bloodstream and damage internal organs. Dental disease has been linked to numerous health problems in dogs, including liver, kidney and heart disease.

Luckily, dental disease can be easily prevented but a combination of good dental care at home and regular dental health checks are required. Pets should be given dental chews at home 2-3 times a week. For older animals, placing them on a prescription diet specifically designed to prevent tartar build up, such as Royal Canin Dental Diet, may also aid in the prevention of dental disease.

Did you know that dogs and cats can have their teeth brushed as well? Just as in humans, this is the gold standard of dental care and if you can start early with your puppy or kitten, it becomes a normal part of their routine, just as for kids. Dental packs are inexpensive and come with a toothbrush that slips on your finger and a chicken or beef flavoured toothpaste which dogs and cats love!

For all dogs and cats, it is still important to have regular dental checks with your veterinarian. Even with the best of care, some plaque and tartar will build up over time but this can be easily removed with a scale and polish at your vet. If you catch plaque early, before it becomes calculus and causes gingivitis and periodontal disease, you can save your pet from dental pain and yourself from expensive dental care in the future

Euthanasia and Grieving

Anyone who has shared their life with a pet knows that eventually the time comes when your paths must part. Sometimes events happen that take this decision out of our hands although sometimes we, as compassionate pet owners, have to decide what is best for our pet. No matter whether it is expected, anticipated or out-of-the-blue, the decision to euthanase your pet is never an easy one.

The most frequently asked question we hear when people are considering euthanasia is 'how do we know when it is time?'

Owners faced with this decision often suffer a high level of anxiety, caused by not wanting to end their pet's life prematurely but also being concerned that leaving the decision too long may cause undue pain and discomfort to their animal. Depending on your pet's individual situation, timelines and specific prognoses may be discussed with the veterinarian. However, sometimes there is no clear-cut answer. I have found the best advice is to assure each owner that they know their pet the best. Once you notice your pet's behaviour starting to change, whether their appetite is diminishing or perhaps they don't find enjoyment in the things they used to, then the time may be approaching to discuss options with the veterinarian.

It has been my experience that owners can be 'frightened' to come in for a consultation and discussion about their pets quality of life, for fear that they will be 'forced' into euthanasia, or chastised for 'letting their pet deteriorate'. Do not assume your pet's condition is untreatable - call us first and discuss the situation before you are too far into this emotional process to turn back. Be assured that our vets and nurses are here for your support and that we will sensitively discuss your concerns. Remember that we are pet owners too, and as such we have all faced this and other difficult decisions with our own animals.

Once the decision to euthanase has been made, owners have the choice whether or not to stay with their pet during the euthanasia. This is a very personal decision, and there is no 'right or wrong' choice. The procedure is fast, painless and is the most humane option when euthanasia is required. It is most commonly performed by injecting a drug directly into the bloodstream, although sometimes alternative routes may be used.

Some owners feel strongly that they want to stay with their pet through the whole procedure, whereas others prefer not to be present for this final moment. If you would like to discuss your options before making this decision, please let us know before your appointment time and we will answer your questions sensitively. In addition, generally we recommend against children being present at the euthanasia, and can provide information about grief management in children where required.  

Once the pet has been euthanased, you need to decide how you would like to care for the remains. There are several options - home burial (check council regulations first), general burial with other animals through the hospital or individual cremation with return of ashes. We find it easiest for clients to make these decisions before the time of euthanasia, when possible - please discuss your concerns with the hospital staff.

Grief is a very normal process after the loss of a pet. Each person in the family will grieve in a different way, and will feel the effects of grief for a different length of time. It is important to surround yourself with people who are supportive, and empathetic to your loss. Make sure you are kind to yourself and give yourself permission to grieve. Feel free to contact our staff if you want to talk about things during your time of grieving. We also have information about websites for self-help in grief and may be able to give you information about suitable counseling, if desired.

Any remaining pets in the household may also show signs of grief. Generally these are transient, but please discuss any concerns you have with our staff. We also have a handout about pet grief if you require information.

Sometimes, the depth of grief felt after the loss of an animal results in wanting to 'fill the void' immediately with another pet. To welcome another animal into your family is a big decision, and must be done only when all are ready to receive it - the new pet cannot be seen as a 'replacement' for the lost one. It is always best to wait until all the family members are ready to discuss bringing a new life into the household before getting a new pet.

Physiotherapy & Canine Osteoarthritis

Did you know that 1 in 5 dogs will develop osteoarthritis? Even worse, many owners don't know how to recognise the early signs of osteoarthritis. If your dog has become less active, is stiff early in the morning or following exercise, has limited movement or trouble jumping or getting up and down stairs, chances are, they're not just "getting old" but have the beginnings of degenerative joint disease.

Osteoarthritis primarily occurs in dogs over 7 years. Overuse, obesity, conformational problems or old injuries can all cause degeneration of cartilage within joints, the build of fluid and growth of abnormal bony spurs. All these signs of osteoarthritis lead to a loss of mobility and pain in our doggy friends.

So What Can You Do?

Traditionally, treatment for osteoarthritis has revolved around anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain. Dietary supplements, weight control and Synovan (anti-arthritic) injections can also aid in supporting joint function and give your dog some relief. For many years, research in humans has demonstrated the importance of exercise in maintaining strength and joint movement to decrease pain, often known as "Move it or Lose It".   More and more, veterinarians are discovering the importance of applying these same principles to our canine companions and at Casula and Elizabeth Drive hospitals, we now offer a physiotherapy service.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy starts off with a complete assessment, often some hands on therapy such as massage and all animals leave with 'homework', a program of fun, treat-rewarded exercises aimed at developing strength, mobility and ultimately improving your dog's quality of life. Since we teach owners how to do the exercises themselves and provide ongoing support via email, physiotherapy is a very cost effective way to help manage your dogs arthritis throughout their autumn years. If your best friend has slowed down in the last few years, please look out for our upcoming Arthritis evening on June 14th or have a chat with one of our veterinarians about what you can do to manage this debilitating disease.

The Facts About Feline AIDS: Is Your Cat at Risk?

The Feline Immunodeficiency Virus is a major cause of disease world wide. Unfortunately, here in Australia we have a higher incidence of the disease than anywhere else in the world. In fact, the research of one of our veterinarians here at Casula, Dr Betty Liem, found that 1 in 6 cats are infected with FIV in Sydney's western suburbs.

FIV causes disease similar to that of the human immunodeficiency virus and eventually develops into an AIDS-like disease.  However, FIV can not spread to humans or vice versa.  The virus replicates within the immune system, killing white cells and leaving our feline friends vulnerable to opportunistic diseases.   Early signs of FIV will vary depending on what other infections are present but you may see a loss of appetite, vomiting or diarrhoea, weight loss or anaemia. Affected cats usually die of opportunistic infections.

As there is currently no cure for FIV, prevention is very important. Also, signs of FIV are rarely present immediately after infection and many cats can live years before their immune system has been affected enough to cause disease. Unfortunately, during this time they are still able to infect other cats and you may not realise how often your cat is at risk of catching FIV. For this reason, here at Casula and Elizabeth Drive hospitals we recommend that all cats, (unless exclusively indoors) are vaccinated for FIV as part of their kitten vaccinations.

If you have an adult cat that has not been vaccinated for FIV or if you are not sure, a quick test can be done in the clinic which will tell us if your new cat has ever been infected or vaccinated for FIV previously. A DNA test can also be performed which allows us to differentiate between vaccinated and infected cats. As FIV is most commonly spread by biting during cat fights, it is important to keep your cat indoors until we have the results of these tests.

         

Although there is no cure for FIV, the good news is that we can help to prevent infection and avoid the spread of this deadly disease in our feline companions. If you have any questions on vaccination or FIV tests, the staff at Casula and Elizabeth Drive Animal Hospitals are happy to answer them.