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Cat Health & Care

Cats and misunderstanding myths

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That adorable kitten you just adopted depends on you to keep them happy and healthy, which means providing a friendly home for cats, a healthy diet and a lot of love. Another vital aspect of this attention is vaccination. However, it is not unusual for cat guardians to misunderstand which cats need what vaccines and when, more what protection offers vaccination. Then, let’s explore some common myths and misunderstandings to leave the record about cat vaccination.

Myth: kitten vaccines protect life

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There is a broad misunderstanding that vaccinating a kitten gives them immunity to life. This is false. Many parents of perfectly well -intentioned cats do not get their cat reinforcement shots because they do not realize immunity decreases over time.

Reinforcement shots are important to maintain cat protection against the disease. We know this by observing the titles of blood antibodies, which show that the levels fall over time to the point where they are no longer detectable.

Once this happens, if the CAT finds infection, it is potentially at risk because the immune system can no longer remember how to fight the error.

The time that a cat remains protected varies among individuals, and there are many variable factors that influence this. Then, instead of putting the cat through blood analysis every year, manufacturers investigated a lot to see the average protection time and when a reinforcement dose is needed.

It is this data that the veterinarian uses by advising a father cat that his cat needs another shot.

Myth: Major cats no longer need vaccination

Your older cat has been vaccinated all your life. Surely, in their old age, have they accumulated enough immunity to jump reinforcement?

Actually, no. While this is a logical argument, unfortunately this is not the case.

First, even with a healthy and strong immune system, protection falls over time and needs “impulse.”

Second, older animals have weaker immune systems. This means that they are less capable of fighting infections and depend more on vaccine protection, instead. Therefore, it becomes more important, no less, for older people receive their reinforcement shot.

Myth: Interior cats do not need to be vaccinated

Mistaken! (Well, above all).

Some of the most unpleasant viruses, such as the Feline Panleuchopenia virus, are equivalent to a super villain in terms of hardness. They can survive on sidewalks on all climates for long periods of time. If you walk on the virus, you can bring it inside your shoes, so not even the interior cats are safe.

There is the crunch. An inner cat is in low Risk but no No risk. However, its veterinarian will risk the cat and can choose not to be vaccinated against conditions that require close contact to spread, such as the virus of feline leukemia.

Myth: We vaccinate cats

Many people care about over-vacunation in pets. It is a concern that veterinarians take very seriously. This is the reason why veterinarians avoid unnecessary vaccines by adapting vaccine protocols to meet the risk factor of each individual cat and how much immunity lasts to a particular virus.

To do this, veterinarians divide the components of the vaccine into the nucleus and not es-core. This simply means essential and not essential. For example, rage vaccination is the nucleus, while protection against feline leukemia virus is not coreal for an inner cat.

In terms of how often repeat a dose with a reinforcement, this is decided by how much protection lasts. For example, protection against feline leukemia lasts a year and requires an annual reinforcement, while protection against cat influenza lasts three years.

Myth: Vaccines do more harm than good

veterinary that gave the cat a vaccination
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All parents of responsible cats must make an informed decision about what is best for their pet as an individual. However, when weighing the pros and cons of vaccination, it is relevant to know that the benefits far exceed the risks.

Diseases such as cat influenza, moquillo and feline leukemia are still out there and have consequences that change life. It balances this against the risks of vaccination that can be divided into common but damn but serious reactions, as described below.

Swelling

After a vaccine, about one in 10 cats experience soft swelling on the injection site. This is a temporary lump that disappears after a couple of weeks and nothing to worry about.

Lame

This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually in their first vaccination. It is believed that it is due to the ingredient of the Calici virus, part of the cat influenza, and the immune system that records the vaccine.

Affected kittens can have mild fever, limp and get out of their food. The effect lasts two or three days and then resolved on its own.

It is usually a unique event and is not repeated with subsequent vaccines.

Sarcomas of the feline injection site (FISS)

It cannot be denied that these injection -related tumors are serious. Studies show that this is a rare injection complication, which affects approximately one to four out of every 100,000 cats.

Since vaccines are one of the most frequently administered injections, FISS has been related to vaccination, but can occasionally occur with other injections, such as prolonged antibiotics or steroids.

To reduce this risk, veterinarians are careful to adapt vaccine protocols to the individual to reduce unnecessary vaccines. They also give vaccines in a limb, like a rear leg, and every year they register where the injection was placed, so any suspicious swelling can be bound back to injection and monitor.

When everything is said and done, it depends on each cat’s father to make an informed decision about what is best for their pet. But just be sure to base that decision on the facts, instead of fiction, cat vaccines.

Cat Health & Care

Lentigo in cats: symptoms, causes and treatments

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The lentigo in cats is a common dermatological condition characterized by the presence of small, flat and brownish spots on the skin, particularly around the lips, nose and margins of the eyelid. Unlike humans, where lentiginos can generate concerns about skin health, in cats, these spots are typically harmless and purely a cosmetic problem. They are more commonly observed in cats with lighter layer colors, but they can occur in cats of any type of fur.

This is what you should know about the symptoms, causes and treatments for the condition.

Lentigo symptoms in cats

The lentigo manifests mainly as small and darkly pigmented spots, similar to pecsas in humans. These spots are usually circular or irregularly and can vary in size from a point point to several millimeters in diameter. The most common areas in which they can notice that these points include around the lips, in the nose and along the edges of the ears. Although less common, they can also appear in gums, eyelids or even in the skin of the abdomen.

In cats, the lentigo generally begins to appear in adulthood and can increase in number as his cat ages. Unlike other skin conditions, lentigo spots are flat and do not cause any discomfort, such as itching, pain or irritation, to cats. They simply present themselves as a cosmetic difference, which should not affect the quality of life of their pet. However, it is crucial to observe any change in the points, including rapid growth or development of texture, since it could indicate a differently and potentially more serious condition that requires veterinary attention.

Causes of Lentigo in Cats

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The exact cause of the lentigo in cats is not well understood, but it is believed that it is linked to genetics. As a result, the condition is more frequent in certain colors or cat patterns. Orange, ginger, calicó and Tortoisehell cats seem to be more predisposed to develop these points. In addition, the condition tends to occur more frequently in cats with light or thin coats, possibly because pigmentation is more visible against its skin.

Despite its appearance, the lentigo does not result from sun exposure, a common erroneous idea due to its similarity with the freckles induced by humans in humans. However, Some researchers He believes that the genetic composition of ginger cats and their descendants can be unstable, leading to genetic alterations that cause greater melanin production. Melanin, produced by melanocyte cells, plays a fundamental role in determining skin and hair color.

To diagnose lentigo, his veterinarian will closely inspect the pigmented spots on his cat’s skin. They could use a dermatoscope, a special increase tool, to examine the points more closely. In addition, your veterinarian may ask about your cat’s medical history, exposure to sunlight and any recent change in the appearance of the points. To rule out other conditions, such as skin infections, fungal infections or skin cancer, the veterinarian can perform a biopsy, taking a small sample of the affected area for laboratory analysis. This step is crucial to ensure that dark spots are lentigo and do not indicate a more serious health problem.

Treatments for lentigo in cats

Since the lentigo in cats is a benign condition, treatment is not typically necessary. The main approach must be to monitor the points for any change that deviates from its original appearance. If you notice any rapid growth, changes in color or shape, or if the spots rise or irritate, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian. These changes could be indicative of a skin condition as melanoma. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are key to successful management.

For cosmetic reasons, some owners may ask about treatment options to lighten or eliminate points. However, most veterinarians advise against the search for such measures due to the unnecessary risk of discomfort or complications of cosmetic procedures in animals. Instead, the best course of action is to adopt the unique appearance of its kitten. That said, remember to schedule regular well -being controls with your veterinarian to catch any potential health problem from the beginning.

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Cat Health & Care

Cat penicillin: uses, doses and side effects

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Cat penicillin is an antibiotic medicine derived from Penicillium fungi. It is under the kind of beta-lactam antibiotics and is mainly used to treat bacterial infections. The medicine interrupts the process of construction of the bacterial cell wall, which finally kills bacteria. Being one of the oldest types of available antibiotics, penicillin has played a vital role in veterinary medicine due to its effectiveness and general safety when used correctly.

This is what you should know about the uses, dose and side effects of cat penicillin.

Cat penicillin uses

Penicillin is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections in cats. It is particularly effective against gram-positive bacteria, such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus and Clostridium species, but can also treat some gram-negative bacterial infections. Common infections treated with penicillin include skin infections, respiratory infections, urinary tract infections and some types of gastrointestinal infections. It is also used to prevent feline infection with wounds or after surgery. In addition to these common uses, veterinarians can use penicillin as part of the treatment for more serious infections, including septicemia (blood poisoning and peritonitis, inflammation of the abdominal lining.

It is worth noting that penicillin V, the approved version for oral use in humans, has not received the approval of the FDA for use in animals. However, in Certain circumstancesVeterinarians have the authority to prescribe medications approved by humans for pets. This is known as “extra labeling use” or “out of label”, indicating that the medication is used in a way not described in its official label. The decision to use this medicine for the specific condition of your pet falls to your veterinarian.

Cat penicillin dose

The next is a guide for the typical drug use in cats and should not replace the advice of your veterinarian for your individual pet.

The dose of cat penicillin depends on several factors, including the type and severity of the infection, the weight of your cat and general health. Penicillin comes in several forms, including injectable solutions and oral tablets or liquid suspensions. A commonly used injectable form – Penicillin G – It can be prescribed In a range of between 10,000 and 25,000 units per pound of body weight, administered two to six times a day. Penicillin G is available in the market with brands such as “Crystacillin®”, “Flo-Cillin®”, “Crystiben®” and “Dual -pen®”. The recommended dose for oral penicillin is 5 to 10 mg per pound of body weight, once a day.

The duration of treatment generally varies from seven to 14 days, but in some cases, longer treatments may be necessary. It is crucial to complete the complete course of antibiotics as prescribed by its veterinarian, even if your cat seems to have recovered. Not doing so can lead to antibiotic resistance, which makes bacteria more difficult to treat in the future.

The proper storage of penicillin is important. Oral tablets must be kept in a cool and dry place, far from sunlight, preferably at a controlled temperature between 68-77 ° F. Injectable solutions may require refrigeration. Always verify the storage requirements on the medication label or consult with your veterinarian.

Side effects of penicillin for cats

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While penicillin is generally safe for cats, some may experience side effects. These side effects are usually mild, but in rare cases, more serious reactions can occur. Side effects may include:

In case of an allergic reaction, it is essential to seek veterinary attention immediately. Other less common side effects may include changes in behavior or seizures, although these are extremely rare. Long -term or repeated use of penicillin can also lead to a secondary infection due to the alteration of normal intestinal flora.

Penicillin can interact with some medications, including certain antibiotics, as well as medications such as methotrexate and probenecid. Before starting penicillin treatment, be sure to reveal your cat’s full medical history to your veterinarian. This includes any allergic reaction to penicillin or other antibiotics, since this can significantly influence the choice of medication. In addition, it is important to exercise additional caution when administering antibiotics to pregnant or breastfeeding cats.

If you lose a dose of penicillin for your cat, talk to your veterinarian to obtain guidance. In general, they could advise you to manage the lost dose as soon as you remember. However, if the time is close to the next scheduled dose of your pet, it is possible to be indicated to jump to the regular dosing regime. It is important to avoid giving additional or double doses.

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Cat Health & Care

Cat for cats: uses, doses and side effects

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Apoquel is a prescribed pet medication – particularly dogs – To relieve symptoms associated with allergic dermatitis, such as itching and inflammation. The FDA has not officially approved the use of apoquel in cats. However, since its introduction to the market in 2013, the effectiveness of the medication in cats has been subject to an extensive study. The reports have indicated various degrees of success and safety in the out of the medication label.

This is what you should know about the uses, dose and side effects of Cat for cats.

Case for cats

The active ingredient in apoquel is oclacitinib. It works by inhibiting the function of certain proteins, Jak enzymes, involved in itching and inflammation. For cats that suffer conditions such as allergic dermatitis or atopia, Apoquel could provide significant relief. The medicine is especially beneficial for felines who have not responded well to traditional antihistamine or corticosteroids. However, it is essential to keep in mind that these uses are outside label, and you should only consider apoquel for your cat under the direct supervision of an experienced veterinarian in its use in cats.

That said, apoquel only its use in dogs that are more than 12 months old is recommended. This is because smaller dogs, lower than one year, have not yet developed mature immune systems. Although mainly focuses on dogs, this caution is also advisable for cats.

Cydos dose for cats

The following information is understood as a guide for the typical drug use in cats. You should not replace your veterinarian’s advice for your individual pet.

The appropriate dose of Catos for cats is not officially established. Dosage recommendations currently in use are derived from dermatology research that involves cats, along with the practical experience of the veterinary community with medicines in recent years. Apoquel is available in oral tablet in different strengths: 3.6 mg, 5.4 mg and 16 mg. It is possible that you should hide the medication in food or a pill pocket to facilitate the easiest ingestion of your cat.

For many cats, a Common initial dose of apoquel is typically 2.7 mg. This is equivalent to half of a 5.4 mg tablet. Depending on the size of your cat and your specific condition, your veterinarian could adjust this dose accordingly.

When it comes to dog doses with apos, the initial regime implies managing the medication every 12 hours during the first 14 days. After this period, the frequency is reduced once a day, every 24 hours. If a dog, which is well administered in a dose once a day, experiences a sudden outbreak of allergy, the dose can be temporarily increased to twice for up to 14 days.

Most veterinarians prescribe a similar dosing schedule for cats. However, long -term or excessive dose can raise the risk of immune suppression in both cats and dogs

The management of atopic dermatitis in cats often requires a nuanced approach, and apoquel may not always be the only or first line of treatment. Your veterinarian can incorporate other medications into the treatment plan. These may include glucocorticoids such as prednisolone, specific allergy, antibiotics and cyclosporine immunotherapy. In addition, your veterinarian could advise you to consult with a veterinary dermatologist to effectively administer the allergic conditions of your cat’s skin.

Side Effects for Cat

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Apuequel has changed the game for many dogs. However, the side effects experienced by cats could differ, and research in this area is still emerging. Some of the possible side effects include:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy
  • Appetite changes
  • Possible susceptibility to infections due to immunosuppressive effects

Apoquel should be used with caution in pets that have been diagnosed with cancer. The medicine can inhibit certain cytokines, which play a fundamental role in the body’s immune response against various types of cancer. By suppressing these cytokines, there is a potential risk that the medication can trigger the development of cancer or exacerbate existing conditions. In addition, you should use cautious aposla in pets that experience an active infection not related to allergic skin diseases, such as urinary tract infections or pneumonia.

There have been no interactions reported between Apuequel and other drugs. However, its effects have not been thoroughly evaluated when used together with corticosteroids, cyclosporine or other medications that are known to significantly suppress the immune system.

The manufacturer, ZoetíHe points out that Apoquel has been used successfully with vaccines, non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), anticonvulsive, antibiotics, parasiticides and immunotherapy with allergens. While these findings are based on studies carried out in dogs, it is likely that they can also be applied to cats. However, specific interactions in cats have not been studied widely.

It is essential to monitor your cat closely for any adverse reaction after starting apoquel and informing them to your veterinarian immediately. The decision to continue or adjust the medicine will depend on the severity of the side effects compared to the benefits observed in the management of the allergic condition.

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