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Pet Health Tip #20- Cystitis (bladder infection)
Cystitis refers to inflammation of the bladder wall. Several underlying medical issues can cause cystitis. The most common cause of cystitis is a bacterial infection. This is especially true for female dogs and cats. Bacterial infections in dogs and cats happen the same way they do in people, and pets will show similar symptoms. These symptoms include: increased frequency of urination, straining to void the bladder, and blood in the urine. Antibiotics are used to treat bladder infections.
Bladder stones (uroliths) can also cause cystitis. Bladder stones are mineral deposits that form into rock-like substances. These stones can be as large as golf balls! The symptoms are exactly the same as with bladder infections. Occasionally, a small stone may become trapped in a male dog’s or cat’s urethra causing a blockage. This is a serious condition that requires emergency treatment.
During the early stages of stone development, the pet will have crystals in the urine. Dogs may or may not develop symptoms of cystitis during the crystal phase. Cats will typically start to show symptoms during this phase. As I stated earlier, these crystals and stones are caused by mineral deposits. These deposits are created by the urine either being too acidic or too alkaline. The treatment is a change in diet, which will either raise or lower the pH of the urine. Some bladder stones will dissolve in response to the diet change. However, surgery is usually needed to remove the stones.
A less common cause of cystitis is a bladder tumor. These usually develop in older female dogs. The tumors are typically benign.
There are other less common causes of cystitis. All causes create the same symptoms. Therefore, if your pet is showing symptoms of cystitis, you should take him or her to a veterinarian in order to get an accurate diagnosis.
Five Tips for Selecting the Best Cat Tree By Petar Petrov
One of the best ways to satisfy your cat?s curiosity and keep in shape is to provide her with a cat tree. Since there are many such trees offered in the market, you should spend enough time understanding a few things before purchasing one for your beloved pet. Many pets need enough amount of stimulation to prevent them from getting bored, and cat trees are definitely one among best cat furniture that will keep your cat active through the day. But before making decision which tree is best for your feline friend you should consider some things.Safety Matters a Lot!
It should be the very first thing that you need to consider, when shopping for a cat tree. Not only should you provide safety for your cat, but also for you or anyone who comes close to that tree. Cat owner should know what their cats can do, and if there are risky areas in your home, the pets are going to explore it for sure.
The manufacturer is responsible for making a well-constructed cat trees, but the owners are equally responsible for making good judgment in terms of selection. Ensure that the design of the tree does not compromise on safety. Some of them could be made of cheap materials and could collapse under the weight of your pet. You may also want to buy a tree, which will not trip over when your cat takes a flying leap, lands on side or top of the cat tree. The lighter and smaller trees are not the best option if you have big or heavy cats at home. Check the stability of tree before making the purchase. Some of the manufacturers use toxic chemicals, glues, and dyes in the making process, and it is strictly not recommended to go for such ones.
Accessibility
Ensure that the kitty cat tree you intend to buy is accessible to your cat or kitty. Cats should be able to climb tree in all situations. You pets many be overweight, old, have health problems, or declawed. If you?ve bigger cats, take trees that can accommodate properly. The cats should be able to get down or up the tree very easily.
Durability
Some cat trees at local stores are made with cheap materials, so stability should always be checked. Many use cardboard as the main support, which is not that safe, especially when the cat is climbing the tree.
Don?t Overlook the Visual Appeal
The cat tree not only should appeal to your pet, but it should also be great addition to your home d?cor. If you?ve spent $2000 on a new sofa or furniture, you wouldn?t of course want to see ugly tree placed in the middle of living room. So, make it a point to choose something that complements your furniture, design, and style of the room.
Price
It is not about buying some cheap or expensive kitty tree, but purchasing something that offers great value for money. Have some budget in your mind and buy a tree that will satisfy both you and your cat.
Keeping all these things in mind, now you can choose a secure, well-balanced, and stable cat tree, and keep your pets happy.