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Govind Kumar
India
獣医師, BVSc & AH

Professional Highlights, Credentials
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Veterinarian
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Lives in US

12 Answers
Dog / Mix - Answered 1024 days ago
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hello. so my dog is an almost 2 years old, chihuahua mixed breed. he doesn't have worms or any health problems at least according to 4 vets i took him to. the problem is that he is very skinny (4kg). he doesn't eat a lot but on most days he eats all of his 3 meals (i give him cheese, a mix of chicken thighs + pumpkin + rice or boiled potato, sometimes i give him human food because he is a picky eater and gets fed up with the same taste) the problem is that he never gains weight and i'm worried about him. i keep thinking maybe his body is not able to digest nutrients? for the past week or so i started giving him supplements for dogs (calcium in the morning then a multivitamin + iron later on) but i see no progress and i'm very worried. please help me
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My Dog Is Eating, But Not Gaining Weight — Why? If your dog seems to be eating normally, but they’re still underweight and not gaining anything, there’s usually one of two things happening: you aren’t feeding them enough, or there’s an underlying issue not letting them gain weight. You can try feeding them more at mealtime, but if they seem to not gain weight no matter what you do, you’ll want to take your pup to the vet to make sure nothing else is and causing their weight issues. What Else Can I Add to My Dog’s Food to Help Them Gain Weight? Other than peanut butter, eggs, and rice, are there other human foods you can feed your pup to help them gain weight? Fatten up your dog and share these treats with them (they’re sure to gobble up all of the human food you have to offer!): Cottage cheese — full fat Lean meat — raw or cooked depending on your dog’s regular diet Quinoa — it provides usable energy and contains amino acids for muscle building Other Tips to Fatten Up Your Dog Talk to your vet before you make drastic changes to your dog’s eating habits. Create a journal and keep track of their meals, treats, exercise, and weight changes. Weigh your dog weekly to keep an eye on their weight changes and how your new routine is working. Try feeding them smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. Proper exercise is still important even when you’re trying to fatten up your dog. High-quality food and treats and adequate amounts of playtime are some of the most important things to keep your dog happy and at a healthy weight.
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Cat / Himalayan - Answered 1078 days ago
It's been 2 days. My cat suddenly stopped eating and drinking water. She seemed really tired and just kept on sleeping. She also stopped grooming herself when it's her favourite thing to do everyday. She kept on avoiding food and water. I think there's something wrong with her mouth/throat. Is it possible that it's an issue of hairball? Or there might be another issue? Thank you.
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Hii!! A common sign of illness in cats is a reluctance to eat, eating less, or refusing to eat at all. A loss of appetite is termed ‘inappetence’. Inappetence refers to a lack of appetite, whereas anorexia refers to a complete lack of food intake, where a cat consistently refuses to eat and weight loss occurs. It is very stressful for carers when a cat won’t eat, and it’s a worry when cats refuse food. There are many reasons why a cat may go off its food. Cats can be notoriously fussy eaters, and a change in their diet may lead to food avoidance. Therefore, always introduce a new diet to your cat in gradual stages, adding the new food as a small proportion of its existing diet and increasing this gradually. This may be done by offering the new food next to the old food and gradually reducing the amount of the new food. However, a cat going off its food can indicate that it’s feeling unwell. Many diseases depress a cat’s desire to eat; therefore, it’s always important to monitor your cat’s eating, and remember that periods without food can be very serious to cats. As a species they can develop liver problems if they go without food even for a short time. Conditions such as dental disease, liver problems, intestinal problems, infections, and cancerous processes are just a few that can affect a cat’s appetite.If your cat is eating less than usual, or worse, not at all, you should take it to see a vet as soon as possible. It’s important to get the cause diagnosed and treatment started to minimise weight loss, which can lead to further health problems. If no physical health issues causing inappetence can be identified, then the cause of appetite loss may be psychological. Inappetence can be caused by stress, in which case it’s important to identify the cause of stress and try to reduce it. There may be a trained member of the veterinary team at the clinic who can assess your cat’s environment and routine to identify any causes of stress, or seek the help of a trained behaviourist. See our advice page on stress in cats. In conclusion, it’s important to take your cat to a vet for a health check if you notice a change in appetite, to get to the root of the problem and for appropriate treatment.
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Dog / Mix - Answered 1176 days ago
I was just wondering. Coco happens to vomit every morning yellowish liquid around 20cc. Seems like bile to me. Not sure if is only because of hunger or cold cos he sleeps with me in the room with ac. It happens quite often now. Like 3x/week maybe? I'm starting to worry. But other than that he's still playful.
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While cats have a reputation for vomiting frequently, it’s a little more alarming when it happens to your dog. As a pet parent, it’s important to know why dogs vomit and when you should seek medical attention. In many cases, it comes down to your dog eating food too quickly or ingesting a foreign object. Keep reading to understand why your dog may be sick, and how you can help the next time he or she gets into something she shouldn’t. Vomiting Yellow Foam Dogs sometimes vomit up yellow foam. This yellow foam is a form of bile, or digestive fluid, that is produced in the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and released into the small intestine, just below the stomach. This yellow foam usually means that its stomach is empty and the bile is causing stomach irritation. Infrequent projectile bile from your dog may be due to Bilious Vomiting Syndrome. In addition to lack of food, this syndrome may be caused by a lack of fiber in the dog’s diet, drinking a lot of water, certain medications, allergies, eating fatty foods, or eating grass. To help combat Bilious Vomiting Syndrome in dogs, try breaking up meal time into multiple smaller meals and feed your dog a low-fat, high-fiber diet. If your dog is on medication and you suspect this may be the cause, discuss it with your vet for advice. Gastrointestinal Disorders If your dog is frequently vomiting up this yellow bile, there is a cause for concern. If your pup’s vomit is white, meringue-like and foamy, it’s urgent. Make an appointment with your regular vet as soon as possible if in any doubt. There are multiple conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract, or digestive system, and can be an underlying cause. These conditions include: Inflammatory Disease Parasites Ulcers Cancer Foreign bodies lodged in the tract (like pieces of bones or chew toys) Toxic substances Bacterial or viral infections Pancreatitis Pancreatitis usually occurs because a dog has eaten a very fatty or oily meal. The fatty food will inflame the pancreas in dogs and cause vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. This will occur a day or two after eating the fatty meal. Bile is an acidic liquid that can eat away at a dog’s esophagus if left untreated. Your dog will need to be diagnosed and treated by a veterinarian as soon as symptoms are observed. Allergies Allergies may be a cause of vomiting in dogs. Your dog may be allergic to their food and you don’t even realize it. Many people think, “I’ve fed my dog the same food for years, so how can that be the cause?” Dogs can develop allergies at any point in their lives, which adds to the confusion. The most common food allergies for dogs include chicken and wheat, which also happen to be ingredients in most dog foods. Even a simple change in a dog’s environment, like moving to a new home, can trigger allergies. In addition to food allergies, skin and coat conditions can be a symptom as well. Try switching your dog’s diet to a limited ingredient food, like one containing salmon and potato. Allergies Allergies may be a cause of vomiting in dogs. Your dog may be allergic to their food and you don’t even realize it. Many people think, “I’ve fed my dog the same food for years, so how can that be the cause?” Dogs can develop allergies at any point in their lives, which adds to the confusion. The most common food allergies for dogs include chicken and wheat, which also happen to be ingredients in most dog foods. Even a simple change in a dog’s environment, like moving to a new home, can trigger allergies. In addition to food allergies, skin and coat conditions can be a symptom as well. Try switching your dog’s diet to a limited ingredient food, like one containing salmon and potato. Eating Grass It’s an age-old question: Why do dogs eat grass only to then vomit? It is commonly thought that if a dog has an upset stomach, he or she will eat grass to cause itself to vomit, thus relieving the discomfort. This topic is up for debate since science has not proven that dogs are self-aware to that extent. (But we know how smart dogs are, right pet parents? If you can, try to prevent your dog from eating grass, especially the stuff that’s not growing on your own property. Grass is sometimes treated with fertilizers, chemicals and other substances that can potentially make your dog extremely ill. Vomiting Combined with Other Symptoms As we mentioned earlier, if your dog is vomiting frequently, take them to the vet. Observe your dog for other symptoms so that you can report these. Other symptoms will help your vet pinpoint what the underlying cause is. Be on the lookout for: Diarrhea Blood in the vomit Increased or decreased drinking and urination Lethargy Lack of appetite It’s normal for your dog to get sick occasionally, especially after eating too fast. But when dogs vomit frequently, that’s cause for concern. Err on the side of caution and take your furry family if this happens and/or if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above. Diagnosing and treating the problem will get your dog feeling better and back to his or her normal, active, lovable self!
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Cat / Mix - Answered 1202 days ago
My pet vomits food that looks partially digested once in every three to five months. When she vomits she keeps vomiting bile even after her stomach gets empty, and it takes about 5-6 hours for it to subside. She looks a little down on those days. Her appetite and energy comes back after 2-3 days, but we don't know what might be causing it. Ever since we had her neutered we've been seeing hematuria from an unknown cause (idiopathic cystitis?), and we've been treating it with stress-relieving food suggested by our vet. We take her to the vet regularly, but should we do something about the vomiting?
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There’s nothing that can get a pet parent moving quite like the sound of a dog vomiting or about to vomit. It’s a sound that all pet parents recognize and hate to hear. So, what causes dog vomiting? Dogs vomit for many reasons. Some of the reasons are nothing to worry about, but sometimes, vomiting is a sign of a serious health problem that needs immediate veterinary care. Learning to tell the difference can be tricky, but it’s important to know why dogs vomit, when you should be concerned, and what you can do to help. This guide will break down the causes of dog vomiting, help you identify dog vomit types, and explain what you should do and when it’s time to call a vet. Jump to a section here: Is It Dog Vomiting or Regurgitation? What Does Your Dog’s Vomit Look Like? Yellow Vomit White, Foamy Vomit Clear, Liquid Vomit Mucus-Like, Slimy Vomit Bloody Vomit (red or pink) Brown Vomit Green Vomit Worms in Vomit Grass in Vomit Why Is My Dog Throwing Up? Do You Need to Go to the Vet if Your Dog Is Vomiting? What Can You Give a Dog to Stop Vomiting at Home? Dog Vomiting Treatment at the Vet’s Office How to Prevent Some Cases of Dog Vomiting. How to Prevent Some Cases of Dog Vomiting Many causes of dog vomiting cannot be prevented, but some can be if you follow these rules: Don’t change your dog’s diet suddenly. Always use a gradual approach. Sudden dietary changes are a common cause of intestinal upset in dogs. Don’t give your dog toys that can be swallowed or chewed into pieces, thereby causing GI irritation or blockage. Don’t give your dog bones. These, too, are routinely implicated in vomiting episodes. Avoid table scraps. Some human foods are downright dangerous for dogs (e.g., grapes, raisins, chocolate, xylitol, onions, garlic, chives, macadamia nuts, and high-fat items), but individuals with sensitive stomachs may not even be able to eat “safe” human foods without vomiting. Don’t let your dog scavenge for food on walks or by having access to garbage cans. “Garbage gut” is what veterinarians commonly call the gastroenteritis caused by consuming scavenged items. Scavenging also increases the risk of foreign-body ingestion and toxin exposure. Watch overly inquisitive dogs carefully. You might even want to try to use a muzzle to keep them from eating anything they might find along your walks.
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Cat / Mix - Answered 1208 days ago
I've been giving my pet therapeutic food from Royal Canine because we'd been seeing urine crystals and the pH had been high at 7 to 8. However the symptoms didn't improve, so our vet recommended we switch to food from Hills. The problem is that our pet won't eat the new food - all he does is smell it. We don't feed him any other food, but he will only eat 3 pebbles at the most. He won't eat even if we crush or soften the pebbles with water, and I'm concerned that he might have increased risks of developing fatty liver if he keeps this up. The vet is telling me to see how it goes for two days, but will he be okay for that long, even if he's only eating three pebbles of food? Or should we switch back to food from Royal Canine even though it won't be effective, just so he keeps eating? He's full of energy so I think he just doesn't like the food but is there any way that I might be able to make him eat?
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Hii see it is not advisable to compare brands here but you have to know the scientific knowledge about kidney stone diet. Stones form in an animal’s urinary tract when minerals are concentrated in the urine, then crystallize. The diet you feed your companion plays a pivotal role in the treatment and prevention of stones. “What you need to do is try to alter the balance that is contributing to the high concentration of certain minerals,” says Dr. Anthony Ishak, a veterinarian with BluePearl Veterinary Partners in Tampa, Florida. The type of stone that forms depends on which minerals are present in high concentrations. “For example, excess magnesium and phosphorus can contribute to struvite formation,” says Dr. Dan Su, a veterinary clinical nutrition resident at University of Tennessee, Knoxville. “Another, more complicated example is that while excess calcium can contribute to calcium oxalate stones, insufficient calcium leads to decreased binding of oxalate in the intestines and subsequently more oxalate excreted in urine.” In other words, both too much and too little calcium can lead to the formation of stones. Pets need just the right amount of calcium to prevent stone formation. Diagnosing the precise type of stone afflicting your companion—and tailoring a diet to treat it—should be left to your veterinarian. The following vet-recommended tips can help you better understand your pet’s special nutritional needs—and put you in a better position to provide optimal care. Work Closely with Your Veterinarian Bladder stone management isn’t a one-size-fits-all model. It requires the expertise of someone who understands how food impacts stone development. Your vet is your pet’s first line of defense. “Overall, this is not a condition that a pet owner can reliably fix by changing dog foods,” says Ishak, who is board-certified in internal medicine. “This is one problem that does call for professional help to solve most expeditiously. There are some stones that form with certain medical conditions (infections, liver problems, etc.), complicating diagnosis and management further.” Other factors add to the complexity. “Sometimes the urine may need to become more acidic but other times it may need to become more basic,” he says. “In addition, different stones require different mineral or protein reductions.” Mineral concentration and pH can potentially be manipulated with diet, says Dr. Jonathan Stockman, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. “However, it can be complicated when management of one type of crystal increases the risk for the formation of a different type of crystal.” Focus on Water Intake Keeping an animal well-hydrated is a strategy vets often recommend for keeping bladder stones in check. “Diluting the urine (and thus the concentration of minerals) by increasing water intake is typically the most critical component of dietary management, and the part that seems to be done the least,” says Dr. Cailin Heinze, a veterinarian at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University in North Grafton, Massachusetts. If your pet doesn’t readily drink water from his bowl, Stockman has advice to offer. “This may be done by feeding a high moisture diet [canned food], adding flavor to the water, increasing the number of water bowls, and some cats and dogs may like water fountains that provide running water,” he says. Adding water to canned food and making water more enticing by using ice cubes or small amounts of flavoring, like chicken broth, are strategies recommended by Dr. Jennifer Larsen, associate professor of clinical nutrition at the University of California-Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine. If you’re concerned about over-hydrating your pet, keep in mind that “it’s hard to give your pet too much water as long as they are voluntarily drinking,” Ishak says. “But don’t force water into a pet.” Feed Your Companion a Therapeutic Diet Commercial therapeutic diets are the best option for reducing the development of most types of stones, says Heinze, who is board-certified in veterinary nutrition. “Home-cooked diets are usually a second choice for dogs that can’t eat a commercial diet, rather than the first choice for stone prevention, because they can’t undergo the kinds of testing that commercial therapeutic diets do to ensure that the urine produced has the greatest chance of reducing stone risk,” she says. Therapeutic diets work by providing less of the substances that form the stones, Su says. “Some of these diets are designed for prevention of stones, and some for dissolution of stones (and are therefore more depleted in stone formation ingredients), so make sure the pet is monitored by a veterinarian while on these diets.” The type of diet your vet prescribes will depend on the stone. For example, “for dogs with urate and cysteine bladder stones, your vet will recommend specific lower protein therapeutic diets that promote alkaline pH and reduce intake of stone precursors,” says Larsen, who is board-certified in veterinary nutrition. To prevent calcium oxalate stones, the prescribed diet will likely have moderate levels of protein, calcium, and phosphorous. “And it may have increased sodium chloride (to induce dilute urine) or higher fiber,” explains Dr. Joe Bartges, professor of medicine and nutrition at the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Georgia in Athens. Be Careful with Added Ingredients A cat or dog on a therapeutic diet shouldn’t be allowed to eat other foods without the permission of your vet. Dr. Susan Jeffrey, a veterinarian with Truesdell Animal Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin, had a client who had been mixing a therapeutic diet with an over-the-counter diet. “The cat's stones returned and he needed another surgical procedure to remove them,” she recalls. Although your vet has the final say about which foods are appropriate, there are some general guidelines. “Avoid rawhide, pig ears, bully sticks, and other collagen-rich treats,” Larsen says. “They are not only not high enough in moisture but also provide compounds converted to oxalate by the body,” which is an obvious no-no for pets with calcium oxalate stones. Su adds, “For patients with calcium oxalate stones, make sure to avoid excess calcium (avoid dairy products, extra supplementation), and high oxalate ingredients (like spinach).” Animals with urate and cysteine stones should avoid added protein (especially from seafood and organ meat for those with urate), Larsen says. And continued, close monitoring for symptoms of stone recurrence is vital. Dietary manipulation does not work in all cases. “Recurrence of stones, especially calcium oxalates, can occur in some patients even if they are strictly fed the appropriate therapeutic diets,” Su says. Don’t Use DIY Treatments Without Consulting a Vet Some pet parents reach for apple cider vinegar in hopes of acidifying their companion’s urine. But this is not necessarily a good idea. “I wouldn't add anything to increase the acidity of a diet without the supervision of a veterinarian,” says Jeffrey, whose professional interests include preventative care. “If the urine becomes too acidic, calcium oxalate crystals/stones can develop.” Cranberry-based products are touted for urinary tract health. “It may help with recurrent urinary tract infections because of compounds that cranberries contain (called proanthocyanidins, a class of polyphenols found in plants),” says Bartges, who is board-certified in veterinary internal medicine and veterinary nutrition. However, cranberry juice doesn’t acidify urine, he says, so it’s not considered helpful for dissolving stones. Running supplements past your vet is a golden rule, even more so if your pet has a bladder condition. “There are supplements that can be added to food to modify urinary pH like potassium citrate and methionine, but those should only be used as directed by a veterinarian,” Su explains. Some supplements can actually increase the risk of stones in susceptible animals, Heinze says. “Examples include brewer’s yeast for dogs with urate stones, vitamin C or calcium for dogs with calcium oxalate stones, or products that alkalinize the urine for struvite stones.” A specially-formulated diet is a powerful tool that can prevent and treat some types of bladder stones in cats and dogs. The wrong foods, however, have the potential to worsen your pet’s condition. Following your vet’s dietary guidelines, ensuring adequate water intake, and being mindful of added ingredients can restore your companion to optimal health.
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Cat / Mix - Answered 1209 days ago
Our pet had her ear cleaned at the vet a week ago. After we came back from the vet she was shaking her head and kept her ears flat for a while, and has lost her appetite since that day. There's a lot of liquid coming out of the ear, and the hair around it is all wet. Should I take her to the vet again?
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Dog Ear Discharge: Common Causes and Treatments Ear Discharge in Dogs: Why You Should Talk to Your Vet 3 Steps for Applying Your Dog's Ear Medication Preventing Ear Problems in Dogs Ear discharge in dogs isn't really a specific condition; it's actually a symptom of an underlying issue, like mites or an ear infection. Because problems like these can be extremely painful, there's no reason to let your dog suffer needlessly. Know the signs and symptoms of dog ear problems, how to prevent them, and what you can do when they happen. Dog Ear Discharge: Common Causes and Treatments Along with ear discharge, if your dog's ears seem painful when they're touched, if your dog is tilting its head to one side, stumbling or circling to one side, pawing or scratching its ears, shaking its head, if the ear or ears seem inflamed, or if there's ear odor, it could be a sign of these common dog ear problems: Ear mites. Though extremely tiny, ear mites can be a big problem for dogs, especially younger ones. One sign your dog may have mites is a crusty, blackish-brown ear discharge, which often looks like dried shoe polish. Other signs include scratching and head shaking. There are several treatments for ear mites; some options only kill the adult mites but newer products also eliminate the eggs and the immature forms. Treatment with these products is much easier, so talk to your vet to find the best choice for your dog. Outer ear infection (otitis externa). A waxy, yellow, or reddish-brown ear discharge can also be a sign your dog has an ear infection, which can be a result of allergies, mites, polyps, overproduction of ear wax, excessive bathing or swimming (which can leave too much moisture in the ears), or other problems. Additional signs your dog might have an ear infection are a bad or fruity odor from the ears; pain; hot or inflamed ears; scratching; or head shaking. A problem like this requires prompt attention from your veterinarian. Treating an external ear infection may require an antibiotic as well as an antifungal lotion, oral medication, an ear-cleaning solution, or an ear-drying solution. Chronic issues sometimes need surgery. Inner ear infection (otitis interna) or middle ear infection (otitis media). An untreated external ear infection can easily lead to a very painful middle or inner ear infection, both of which have similar signs to otitis externa, along with reluctance to open the mouth or problems with balance. Some dogs may walk in circles or become nauseous. Treatment for middle or inner ear infections may require antibiotics, flushing the ear by your vet, or surgery if the infection is serious. Ear Discharge in Dogs: Why You Should Talk to Your Vet Gently pull back your dog's ears and have a quick look inside. What you should see is a clean, pink ear canal. If you notice discharge, redness, swelling, or odor, it's time to talk to the vet. Left untreated, ear problems in dogs can result in severe pain, hematomas (the ear flap fills up with blood), balance problems, and even deafness. Because ear discharge in dogs can be the result of several causes and can have all kinds of smells, colors, and consistencies, don't try to guess what's causing your dog's ear discharge. Find out by making an appointment with your vet, who can diagnose the cause of your dog's ear discharge and prescribe the best treatment. 3 Steps for Applying Your Dog's Ear Medication If your vet prescribes ear drops to clear up your dog's ear discharge, you may need to apply them for a few weeks. These quick tips make that a little easier: Make sure you have the ear drops close by. Then, hold your dog's head still, thumb between eyes and nose, fingers wrapped under your dog's jaw. Lift your dog's ear and clean away easy-to-reach wax with a cotton ball and ear cleaning solution. Don't dig deep and don't use cotton swabs, which can damage the ear canal or pack wax or debris against the eardrum. Keeping your grip steady, place the nozzle of the ear drops at the opening of your dog's ear canal, angled toward their nose. Squirt in the prescribed number of drops. Keep hold of your dog's head so it can't shake out the medication, then spread the drops by folding your dog's ear down and gently massaging the cartilage at the base of the ear for 30 seconds. Make sure you follow the veterinarian’s directions: Cleaning the ear canal may not optimize certain medications, and others may require more frequent dosing. Preventing Ear Problems in Dogs Dogs with drooping ears -- basset hounds, Irish setters, spaniels -- are more prone to ear problems, but any dog can have ear mites, develop an infection, or get an irritant like burrs or seeds stuck in their ears. Preventing ear problems before they start can help your dog have a full and happy noisy life. Each time your dog's ears get inflamed, the wax glands inside become bigger and more active, while the ear canal scars and narrows, making it more likely to have problems in the future. Help your dog's ears stay healthy by taking these steps:
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Dog / Mix - Answered 1212 days ago
I don't know if this is an injury, but I found black stripes in two of the claws of the front right leg after taking my pet to get his nails clipped about a month ago. He doesn't seem to be feeling any pain. What do you think this is? Is it just some pigment coming out?
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What are Claw and Nail Disorders? The study of the nails is called onychology and has recently become more of a focus in the veterinary field. Research is extensively underway in order for those in the veterinary field to understand more about the complexities of the claws, their function, and how to treat injury and disease. Claw and nail disorders are not often seen in veterinary clinics as a single disorder. For example, a bacterial infection of the nail can run concurrently with a skin condition as it is a continuation of the epidermis and dermis. Other conditions may be an abnormal growth formation or an infection. Systemic diseases can also affect the claws and nails. Diseases and abnormalities of the nail and claw are quite numerous in nature and often accompany skin disorders. Nail and claw dystrophy can occur as the result of a trauma, infection, or abnormal formation, to name a few. Because the nail is such an important part of movement, grasping, and defense, any nail or claw problem should be examined by your veterinarian as these conditions can become very uncomfortable for your dog. Treatment of Claw and Nail Disorders in Dogs The type of treatment that your pet may have to undergo in order to rectify the nail disorder will depend on the cause; the range of reasons for a claw problem are many. Before your veterinarian does begin treatment, however, he will take some considerations into account. Is one paw affected, or all four? Has the deterioration of the nail been a slow progression or is it an acute situation? Is there a breed disposition? Is there a systemic disease that needs to be treated concurrently? What is your pet’s age? Because canine claws take six to nine months to completely regrow, many of the therapies (and the results from them) will be seen only after 6 to 8 months of the regimen. Parasitic effects on a claw can be resolved by eliminating the parasite and then repairing the nail. A bacterial infection will be eradicated with antibiotics; the course of the medication may be required for several months. A nail damaged by trauma could see a treatment of daily antiseptic soaks, along with a removal of the cracked or broken claw. A dog with an immuno-suppressive disorder will need a prescription for oral prednisone. The dose is usually tapered off as the nail heals. Topical creams, Omega 3, and vitamin A and E supplementation could be recommended in addition to other therapy
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Cat / Mix - Answered 1227 days ago
The vet pointed out bad breath in the kitten we adopted from a shelter at 6 months. We'd been giving him gum massages using Oratene gel with our fingers once daily, but we forgot after a while since we got busy with adopting a new cat. After two months the smell got worse so we restarted the massaging. It’s been a month since then but it hasn't been very effective. The vet told us that we should get medication to improve his constitution (twice a year, 10 doses a time, $100 per 10 doses ($200 per year)) if the massages won't work. He also told us that if this continues, our cat might lose the ability to eat food at an early age. I'd like to avoid having to use the medications - is there anything we can do other than that? By the way, we feed him dry food, and we don't give him treats very often (1-2 times a month). *Also, I don't know if this helps, but his lower front teeth are crooked. The vet said that it isn't really a problem since he has all six teeth.
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Here are some of the reasons for bad breath in your cat By far the most common problem in cats (as well as dogs, and dare we say it humans too!) is lack of mouth hygiene. In short this means that bacteria builds up on the teeth and mixes with food and saliva to cause a smelly substance called plaque. This turns in to tartar and more and more bacteria get trapped around the teeth and gums as age progresses. Without cleaning – either regular brushing or scaling and polishing by a veterinary professional, the mouth will get smellier! Cats that hunt regularly may have cleaner mouths than those that don't, as eating the prey can act a bit like a tooth brush! There are some other things that will cause bad breath in your cat and our advice would always be to get them checked out at the vets as soon as possible. Especially if the smell comes on suddenly as this could indicate something even more serious. Things stuck in the mouth: Cats often scavenge. They are particularly prone to getting bits of chicken bone stuck in their mouths or in between their teeth – even if you didn't give it to them! Upper respiratory tract infections: Cats are prone to viruses which cause colds and snuffly noses. These are often accompanied by smelly breath with or without mouth ulcers. Vomiting and regurgitation: This can be quite normal in cats - so long as it is not too frequent - and can be associated with smelly breath. Mouth tumours: Sadly these are quite common in old cats. They often go unnoticed, until they start to bleed when the cat eats. Kidney disease: Renal disease is common in old cats. One of the symptoms is really smelly breath and sore gums. This disease is often accompanied with drinking and urinating a lot. Gingivostomatitis: Inflammation of the gums and mouth can cause the breath to smell unpleasant. It is often very painful for the cat to open their mouth or eat. To find out more about dental disease in cats > Fish based diets: As with dogs, any diet based on fish protein may give rise to fishy breath. Not nice to cuddle up to! Kittens teething – When kittens start to lose their baby teeth at around 4 months + of age and the adult ones are coming through, they do get very smelly breath. You do not need to worry about it as it will pass within a few weeks. You can do a lot to prevent or improve your cat’s breath – Regular dental check ups are essential Buy your cat a toothbrush and tooth paste. Watch a video on how to do it! Feed prescription veterinary diets specially designed to keep teeth clean. Veterinary chews can also be useful and your cat will enjoy them. Especially those with cat nip in! You can buy these at your local veterinary practice > Allow access to the outdoors for hunting if your cat wishes to. Have a scale and polish when your vet suggest it.
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Dog / Poodles - Answered 1261 days ago
I have a Toy Poodle that turns 5 years old this year. What kind of dog food do you recommend?
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Thanks to their prominence in the dog show ring, Poodles have a reputation for being regal and proper. In reality, the distinct breed has a playful and mischievous attitude. They're fiercely loyal to their families, sociable, and one of the most intelligent dog breeds out there. How Much Food Do They Need? The exact amount of food a Poodle will need depends on a few different factors. The first thing to consider is the size and weight classification of the Poodle. These pooches can be as small as 6 pounds and as heavy as 70. Another thing to consider is their lifestyle. Active dogs will always need more food to get through the day than a pup that lounges around. Senior dogs will also need less food than when they were young. poodle waiting to be fed It's important to monitor your canine companion's activity levels and food consumption throughout their lives. You need to adjust their daily intake to match their needs as they grow and develop. Because nutritional content is different with each food product, kibble should be measured by calories rather than volume. * Calorie requirements include all meals and treats throughout the day. 300cal Toy Poodles 490cal Miniature Poodles 1230cal Standard Poodles Toy Poodles The smallest of the dog breed, Toy Poodles can weigh anywhere between 6 and 9 pounds. As an adult, they're a mere 10 inches in height. With their small stature, average Toy Poodles will only need around 300 calories each day. If your furry friend is less active, that calorie requirement drops down to 240 per day. Very active and energetic Toy Poodles will need up to 465. Miniature Poodles Dogs in the next size class up are still relatively small. Average adult Minature Poodles weigh somewhere between 15 and 17 pounds. They have a height of 11 to 15 inches. A moderately active dog will require about 490 calories each day. Dogs that don't get a ton of exercise may need as little as 400. On the other end of the spectrum, highly active dogs will need upwards of 775 calories to make it through the day. Standard Poodles The largest size class of this furry breed is the Standard Poodle. Adult dogs will fit somewhere within the 45 to 70-pound weight range. Fully grown, they have an average height of 22 inches. Average dogs that get a fair amount of exercise will need roughly 1,230 calories a day to stay healthy. Less-active pups can thrive on as little as 1,000 calories. If your dog works and exercises constantly, they'll require up to 2,000 calories. Due to the wide weight range of Standard Poodles, it's crucial that you monitor their needs and supply them with the appropriate amount of food. Top 5 Recommended Dog Foods for Poodles 1. ROYAL CANIN Breed Health Nutrition Poodle Adult Dry Dog Food ROYAL CANIN BREED HEALTH NUTRITION Poodle Adult dry dog food Specifically made for Poodles this kibble from Royal Canin is filled with beneficial ingredients. It has a high protein content of 28% to ensure strong muscle development. The formula also contains DHA to help strengthen their minds at an early age. To make your dog's skin and coat soft, the dog food also includes fish oil. The formula also contains ingredients like Vitamin B12, Vitamin D3, Vitamin E, Biotin, and more for additional support. The unique kibble shape is designed to help keep your dog's teeth healthy throughout their lives. 2. Wells Earthborn Holistic Primitive Natural Grain-Free Dog Food Wells Earthborn Holistic Primitive Natural Grain-Free Dog Food - 5 lb. Bag This high-quality dog food from Earthborn Holistic doesn't contain grain or gluten. It's designed for easy digestion and health support. It has a high amount of protein that comes from turkey meal, chicken meal, and whitefish meal. To add flavor, the manufacturers added natural chicken fat. A variety of vegetables like carrots, peas, and spinach can provide your pooch with all the vitamins and nutrients they need. Additional fruits like apples and blueberries incorporate antioxidants into their diet. 3. Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Active Longevity Chicken Meal, Rice & Barley Dry Dog Food Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Active Longevity Chicken Meal, Rice & Barley Dry Dog Food Made for dogs that are over the age of 7, this dog food[ provides a balanced diet that's designed to keep your canine companion healthy. One way it does this is by providing your dog with plenty of antioxidants and vitamins to keep the immune system strong. These include Vitamin E, Vitamin T, and more. Chicken meal is used as the main protein source. The formula is comprised of many natural and high-quality ingredients. There are no artificial dyes, synthetic flavors, or chemical preservatives. 4. Orijen 6 Fish Grain-Free Formula Dry Dog Food Orijen 6 Fish Grain-Free Formula Dry Dog Food 28.6 lb. Bag As the name implies, ]this dog food from Orijen is made from six different types of fish. In total, 11 pounds of fresh, dried, and raw fish are used. These include mackerel, herring, flounder, redfish, monk, and silver hake. For carbohydrates, the formula utilizes whole peas, lentils, and pinto beans. A healthy dose of greens like mustard, kale, and spinach provide plenty of vitamins and minerals while improving the food's digestibility. The formula is natural and utilizes mixed Tocopherols as the preservative rather than chemical alternatives. 5. EUKANUBA Adult Dry Dog Food EUKANUBA Adult Dry Dog Food This formula from Eukanuba provides a balanced diet and plenty of additional health benefits. The main source of protein is lamb. It also contains chicken meal. To help promote strong joints and bones, the formula has naturally-sourced glucosamine and chondroitin. Ingredients like beet pulp and prebiotic FOS are used to create a healthy fiber system. It can help your dog digest the food properly and improve the process of nutrient absorption into the body. The food also contains Omega Fatty Acids to keep your dog's coat brilliant.
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Cat / local Philippine cat - Answered 1274 days ago
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My cat started vomitting 4 days ago and his bowel is also soft. He has lost his voice due to vomitting but he would still eat continously. I stopped giving him food but gave him water with dextrose powder instead. He started feeling better, he would only poop once but still vomits what he intake. I realized he got some terrible colds and I think he might have sore throat since he lost his voice. Now, I gave him erceflora orally, lots of water with dextrose powder and cold syrup. He is still vomitting when he eats but he was still eating a lot than before. Is it really colds or should I be alarm and need to turn him over to the vet? What are the other home remedies that I can do. Since,it's pandemic, we are only allowed to go out following the curfew.
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Well since you are aware about the depth of the condition, I would like to give you some important instructions. Step 1: Remove all food for at least 12 to 24 hours. Don't remove your cat's water, though. He should always have access to fresh water. Step 2: If the cat's vomit contains blood or is frequent, contact the veterinarian immediately. If not, proceed to Step 3. Step 3: After 12 to 24 hours, feed the cat a mixture of small quantities of boiled chicken breasts, skinned and boned, with rice (50:50 mixture). Alternately, chicken baby food may be substituted. If this is held down, a transition to a regular diet should take place over the next two days by mixing in regular cat food, reducing the chicken and rice amounts and increasing the regular cat food amounts. Step 4: Vomiting can be a sign of many diseases. Do not be fooled into thinking that it is just fur balls. If vomiting continues on a frequent basis, professional help must be sought. Try to follow this protocol.
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Dog / Mix - Answered 1324 days ago
My dog vomited after we changed his food. We gave him the Science diet from Hill's. Did we do something wrong?
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Hi Jonathan, Well this happens almost every time when there is transition in food. So, let me tell you some practical deals How to Change Your Dog’s Food Switching your dog’s food abruptly can cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, and a decreased appetite. Any time you decide to change your dog’s food, you should transition to the new diet gradually in order to give your dog’s system time to adjust to the change. Ideally, these transitions should happen over 5-7 days. During this transition, you will gradually incorporate more and more of the new food by mixing it with your dog’s current diet. For most dogs, a good diet transition will look like this: Day 1: 25% new diet and 75% old diet. Day 3: 50% new diet and 50% old diet. Day 5: 75% new diet and 25% old diet. Day 7: 100% new diet. Some dogs with sensitive stomachs, food allergies, or other gastrointestinal diseases may need an even longer transition period. The key to a good diet transition is monitoring your dog’s individual response. If, at any point during the diet transition, your dog displays concerning signs such as changes in appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea, you should proceed more slowly. And if you have transitioned gradually and your dog is still experiencing stomach upset, it is best to consult with your veterinarian. In some cases, it may be necessary to choose a different diet.
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Cat / Mix - Answered 1333 days ago
I have an 8-month-old female kitten; I had her neutered a month ago. She still can't get out of the habit of biting things. I've been using this lotion that's said to help with the biting, but it hasn't been working at all - I'm covered in wounds everyday. Is there a way to stop the biting?
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Well, Joanne, there are a couple of reasons your cat might be aggressive after her spay. It will take a couple of weeks for her hormones to calm down, but cats don’t typically become aggressive just because of hormonal changes. I suspect that what you’re dealing with is a case of redirected aggression. But before we get into the whole discussion of how to treat redirected aggression, I do recommend that you get in touch with your vet and ask about your cat’s behaviour change. You want to rule out any lingering medical problems before you assume the issue is behavioural. You should also take the older cat to the vet and see if he has any medical problems like arthritis that might be causing him to feel less confident. If she gets a clean bill of health, then you can start treating the redirected aggression issue. The first thing you’ll want to do is get some feline pheromone plug-in diffusers. These are sold under the brand names of Feliway or Comfort Zone. You can find them in most pet stores or online. Use the diffuser in the room(s) where the cats hang out most.These diffusers release “happy cat” pheromones,” which can help calm down aggressive kitties and shore up the bravery of the victim cats. So you can try with that. Hope She will be fine soon. Best regards.
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