Category Archives: Cats

Pets and Poison

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In 2013, there were nearly 180,000 cases of pets that had been exposed to toxic substances. Many of those were everyday household items! http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

The top offender for the sixth year in a row were prescription human medications: medication for heart conditions, pain medications, and antidepressants.

Nearly 16% of all calls to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) were insecticide related.

Tylenol, Advil and herbal supplements accounted for 15% of calls.

What Foods Can Make Pets Sick

Ingesting onions, garlic, raisins and grapes are among the common food items that are dangerous for pets. People food clocked in as the 5th most common pet poison in 2013.

If you think that your pet has ingested something poisonous, please contact your veterinarian. You can also call the Animal Poison Control Center 24-hour hotline at 888-426-4435.

Peace and Love are present in my world now,

Why You Should Have Your Pet Spayed or Neutered

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With many people still struggling financially in the current economy, the decision to spay or neuter a pet may be difficult.

A number of states have proposed mandatory spay/neuter laws. However there are currently no state laws requiring pet owners to sterilize their animals.

Fortunately, there are lots of affordable spay/neuter programs available, and you may be surprised just how beneficial it is to your pet:: www.aspca.org/pet-care/spayneuter.

Finally, spaying and neutering helps control the pet population, so I highly recommend you have your pet altered.

Please contact us if we can assist you in any way with this important decision!

Peace and Love are present in my world now,

Lovin Pet Care

Melanie Lovett

Peace and Love are present in my world now,

Does Your Cat Have Allergies?

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What are the General Symptoms of Cats who Have Allergies?

Sneezing and coughing if she has asthma, wheezing
Increased scratching/itchy skin
Runny, itchy eyes
Itchy base of tail and back (although this is most commonly seen in flea allergies)
Ear infections and itchy ears
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Snoring due to an inflamed throat
Swollen paws/paw chewing

What Are Some Things Cats are Allergic to?

  • Dust pollens, tree, weed, mold mildew and grass
  • Food
  •  Flea-control products and fleas
  • Prescription drugs
  • Perfumes
  • Cleaning products
  • Cigarette smoke
  • Fabrics
  • Plastic materials and rubber

Note: A flea allergy only requires the bite of a single flea to trigger intense itching for 2 to up to 3 weeks!

If you suspect your cat has allergies, visit your veterinarian. If she/he is unable to determine the source of the allergic reaction, a skin or blood tests and/or a special elimination diet will probably be recommended.

Removing offending allergens from the environment is the best way to treat allergies.

Are There Allergy Medications for Cats?

Your vet may prescribe cortisone or steroids to help control the allergy. However, allergy injections are the best way to treat airborne injections, because they treat the allergy itself instead of just masking the itch.

Antihistamines such as Benadryl may be used, but they work best preventatively, before your cat is exposed to the allergen.  There are several flea-prevention products that can be applied monthly to the skin.

Please remember to never give your cat medications unless prescribed by a veterinarian!

Peace and Love are present in my world now,

Lovin Pet Care

Melanie Lovett

Tips for Finding the Perfect Pet Sitter

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cat sitters in naplesIf you’re like me, your pets are like your children and the thought of leaving them with just anyone is unacceptable. It can be quite stressful to find the right person; no matter what someone says you simply never know who you are entrusting with the care of your beloved furry family member(s).

Being a mom of several cats and an experienced pet sitter myself, I know how difficult the process can be. If you are trying to find your first pet sitter, or a replacement pet care giver, here are some tips that I would like to share with you.

First impressions are everything! You may have a wonderful conversation on the phone with your potential care giver, but she/he will be interacting with your pet 95% of the time. Pay close attention to how your pet reacts when first meeting this person: animals are a VERY good judge of character.

References of course are a must. You should request as many as you feel necessary.

While the reasons for being licensed and insured are obvious, bonding helps give my clients peace of mind, especially since I am sometimes staying in their home.

If you would like some more advice on finding that perfect pet sitter, please contact me and I would love to discuss some other ways to ensure you find that perfect match for your fur baby.

Peace and Love are present in my world now,

Lovin Pet Care

Melanie Lovett

Have You Considered Fostering a Dog or a Cat

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Animal abandonment is a growing problem.

Because there is no reporting requirement, it is estimated that 6-8 million animals enter shelters every year. They include animals that have been surrendered by their owners for a variety of reasons, and animals found abandoned on the streets, and those left behind in homes.

Animal abandonment is unlawful in most states, and the consequence vary nationwide. Cruelty charges may also be appropriate if the animal is found to be injured, sick or dead.

What can I do to help?

If adopting an animal is not realistic for you, than you may want to consider becoming a foster parent. Being released from a shelter may mean the difference between life and death for a homeless dog. Animal shelters are often filled to capacity and can’t keep dogs for very long. Even in a no-kill shelter dogs are kept in kennels.

Peace and Love are present in my world now,

Lovin Pet Care

Melanie Lovett