Pet Health

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Category: Pet Health

Advice, tips and reviews – Everything you should know about keeping your pets fit and healthy.
Coronavirus in pets 2021

CORONAVIRUS – Can my pets catch it

by Pet Insurance UK

Can pets get Coronavirus?

It is unlikely that your pets will pick up or pass on Coronavirus, however recent studies have shown cats, dogs, ferrets, fruit bats, and hamsters can become infected with the virus. Research suggest cats, ferrets and hamsters can spread the infection to other animals within the same species in a laboratory setting and news reports of outbreaks amongst farmed animals like recent outbreaks in Danish Mink farms show the virus can spread quickly if it takes hold in a species.

We know that it is likely that Coronavirus jumped species in order to become a problem for humans. Once a virus mutates and becomes readily transmissible within a species it can quickly spread and this is what we have seen in the human population pandemic. The CDC in America suggests transmission can occur from a humans to pets but it is not clear if there is transmission the other way around from a pet to their owner. 

One important thing to note is that your pets are unlikely to become seriously unwell from Coronavirus, but if you have had the virus and your pet/s seem unwell you should consult vets advice on treatment. It is advisable to call your vet and explain the issues before taking your pet to the vet surgery (to protect other animals catching anything off your pet/s).

General precautions you can take to keep your pets safe

Ensure your cats or dogs are not allowed out to roam freely.
Limit close contact with other cats and dogs that are not in your household. When on walks only let your dog or cat off a lead when no other dogs or cats are around. Try not to let your pets share water and food bowls with other pets and especially not with other animals outside of your own household.

What should you do if you have the virus or recently tested positive?

Guidance recommends you treat your pets similar to people, therefore you  should take some basic precautions including: 

Don’t get too close to your pets, leave others to care for your pets while you isolate. 
Don’t feed or share food you have eaten or licked with pets
Don’t allow your pets to sleep in your bed, don’t cuddle or have your pets in close proximity to you while you are sick/isolating. 
Wear a mask if you need to have close contact with your pets when you are sick or isolating.  

What you shouldn't do

As there is no evidence that coronavirus can spread to people from the skin, fur, or hair of pets. You should not wipe or bath your pet with disinfectants, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other products. Hand sanitiser, cleaning wipes and other chemical based products can be more damaging to your pets skin and health. 

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Magnetic Collars – Magnotherapy For Dogs & Cats

by Pet Insurance UK

Magno therapy for pets

Magnetic collars are all the rage with pet owners!

Magnetic therapy or ‘magnotherapy for pets’ has a large and growing following. Pet owners have experienced how the power of magnets in wristbands and bracelets, can help reduce their own aches and pains. Because of this many pet owners are more willing to try out magnetic collars for dogs and cats.

How do magnetic collars for pets work?

t is not conclusive but it is thought that when magnets are built into a collar, the magnets could aid circulation, thus increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery via the lungs. It is this oxygen enriched blood that flows to your pets organs and around their bodies, enhancing internal health and helping to maintain strong bones and healthy joints.

It is thought that magnetic fields help to increase the adherence of calcium ions to a blood clot, speeding up the healing process. Magnets can be effective treatment for periods of lameness caused by growth spurts in young and developing animals helping to heal and promote healthy growth.

In animal medicine, magnet therapy could be implemented to help fractures heal faster. Magnets can work in unison with conventional treatments for conditions including: arthritis, hip and joint pain relief and disorders effecting the vertebra and spine. and could complement

It is important to understand magnetic collars should not be used as a treatment for infectious diseases or cancers – Pet owners should always seek vetinary advice to rule out underlying illness. Your vet will be able to discuss treatment options, including the suitability of using a magnetic pet collar with you.

Pet owners who have cardiac pacemakers should be aware that use of magnetic collars & magnetic therapy can effect how their pacemaker  functions, especially when close to items with magnets built in them.

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Arthritis - Pets can get arthritis too

Arthritis – Dogs & Pets Can Get Arthritis

by p3tsadmin

Dogs and pets can get arthritis

Stiff joints and aches and pains are problems that many of us suffer from as we age. Dogs and other pets also suffer similar effects of ageing.

Arthritis is the name given to swelling or inflammation of the joints. Dogs in particular can suffer badly with aches and pains, common problem areas for dogs are legs, hips and back. Also swollen paws and ankle joints can make walking and running painful.

What causes arthritis in dogs and other pets?

Arthritis in dogs and other pets is largely the result of ageing and wear and tear on bones, joints and cartilage. It can be made worse by things like damp and cold weather, issues with food intolerances and in some cases as a symptom of other underlying illness.

What treatments are available for pets with arthritis?

There are numerous treatments for arthritis and rheumatism in pets. Dogs with arthritis can be prescribed NSAIDs (Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs), in the same way these are prescribed for humans, these drugs can reduce inflammation, swelling and reduce pain levels. However as with humans prolonged use of NSAIDs can cause issues with the stomach and gut which can lead to other complications.

Are there natural treatments for pets with Arthritis or rheumatism?

There are a number of natural and plant based treatments specially developed for treating pets with  arthritis and rheumatism, it is important to remember some supplements are unsuitable for some pets, typically dogs and cats can take many supplements humans can but other pets these can be extremely harmful so it is always important to check suitability with your vet!

Also dosage in pets is usually dependent on their weight so it is vitally important you check and adhere to the guidance on the recommended dosage instructions. Natural treatments for inflammation and arthritis in pets include:

  •  HEMP Oil – CBD oils is the hot new natural supplement for humans. It is thought that hemp oils have beneficial effects for pets with inflammation and joint pain.
  • Turmeric Curcumin & Ginger – These two root herbs are extremely popular, they  are used daily by a growing number of humans, the anti inflammatory effects of turmeric and ginger are also likely to have an effect in naturally lowering the inflammation in pets.
  • Glucosamine & Chondroitin – Are natural complex sugars, the two are powerful anti-inflammatories. It is thought that they play an essential role in the maintenance and regeneration of healthy cartilage. Lower doses can be given to dogs and sometimes cats to combat the effects of rheumatic disorders and arthritis. Together they can help prolong the life of joints and cartilage, thus reducing inflammation.
  • Fatty Acids (OMEGA Oils) – 3, 6, 9 OMEGA oils are known to have inflammation fighting properties.

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Pet Health - Diabetes in pets

Diabetes – Dogs & Pets Can Get Diabetes

by p3tsadmin

Diabetes - Steps to prevent diabetes in pets

Diabetes in pets is a growing problem for pet owners. Dogs, cats and other pets age at a much faster rate than people. Typically for every human year, your dog or cat ages between 6 to 8 years. As your pets age their nutritional needs change. All pet’s require suitable food to provide an overall balanced diet. Foods containing sugar, salt and excessive fat are much more harmful to pets, and feeding pets snacks and food meant for human consumption is extremely bad for pet health and can lead to diseases like diabetes and even cholesterol.

Most quality ‘complete’ pet foods are manufactured to provide a balanced diet with enough protein, fibre, fats, vitamins, and minerals required for a healthy diet. Occasional pet treats are fine as long as they are produced as treats for pets (NOT human snacks, sweets or candy). As your pets ages, switching to a mature animal feed is recommended (especially dogs and cats), mature complex food can ensure your pets get extra essential nutrients but with reduced fats.

Diabetes is common in pets that are overweight. If your pet/s are over weight, constantly thirsty or drinking, there is a good chance they have developed diabetes. A urine test or blood test by your vet can provide confirmation. The best way to prevent diabetes is to ensure your pets are at a healthy weight and have a healthy diet. It is possible, if caught early to reverse diabetes or manage it with diet, exercise and food. However in many cases where it is not possible your pets will require medication to manage their diabetes, this is usually in the form of tablets however in some cases pets will require insulin injections.

 

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  • Urinating More – Pet needs to urinate more often. Your pets urine is dark &/or strong smelling. Your pet may be having accidents indoors.
  • Always Thirsty – Pet seems to be constantly thirsty. They are drinking more than usual and you are having to refill their water more often.
  • Loosing/Gaining Weight – Pet has lost weight or gained a lot of weight. 
  • Always Hungry – Pet is always hungry and never satisfied, begging for more food.
  • Pet Looks Less Healthy – Pets coat or skin looks dull or dry, fur is shedding or patchy / Pets eyes are watery or cloudy. 
  • Lacks Energy / Always Tired – Pet wants to sleep more, less keen or able to exercise & walk.
  • Maintain A Healthy Weight – Ensure your pets are a healthy weight.
  • Switch Food – Switch to a weight loss or diabetes control food like Virbac W1 or similar specialist food.
  • Limit treats – Only feed your pets ‘Pet Treats’, no candy or fatty human snacks. Sugary/salty/fatty snacks are not good for pets. 
  • Daily Exercise – Ensure your pets, especially dogs, get daily exercise. A walk has great health benefits for owners as well as dogs.

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