Our Top Pet Health Tips for Autumn

Ahhh, Fall! This time of year means football, crisp air, colorful foliage, and even, depending on where you live, a little bit of snow. It’s a great time to get outside with your pet; for a dog, there’s nothing like a romp in the leaves, while for cats, midday sunbeams have never felt better as the days get shorter and the nights get colder. When it comes to keeping your pet healthy and helping him enjoy fall to the fullest, there are some things to keep in mind. Read on for our top fall pet tips.

#1. Watch out for ticks in fall

Just because fall is here doesn’t mean that ticks aren’t still lurking. In fact, according to the University of Rhode Island, many species of ticks are active even into the winter and can survive the first frost. Here are some tips to keep your pet tick-free this fall:

• Don’t let ticks cozy up. Eliminate their favorite environments, such as leaf and garden litter, where ticks can sometimes survive even into winter.
• Check for ticks frequently.
• Continue using tick control and repellent products, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors with your pet enjoying activities like hiking, camping, or hunting.
• Ask your veterinarian about regular screening for tick-borne infections. (The Companion Animal Parasite Council recommends screening annually for tick-borne infections.)

[Learn about tick disease in your area.]

#2. Beware rat poison and other rodenticides

Fall is the time of year when mice, rats, and other rodents start to scurry for warmth. And where do they find it? You guessed it – you're home!

Be careful when it comes to mouse traps and rodenticides like rat and mouse poison. Nobody wants an infestation of mice, but many poisons that are currently on the market can be very harmful to dogs and cats. Direct ingestion can be deadly.  Make sure you talk to your veterinarian about methods of pest control that are safe for your pets.

Even if you don’t have a rodent problem or choose to deal with mice and rats humanely using live traps, you never know what methods your neighbors are using. The carcasses of rodents that have been killed by rodenticides can also be dangerous, so if you see the telltale tail dangling from your pet’s mouth, make sure he drops it and keep an eye on him, and if you think your pet has eaten any of the rodents, contact your veterinarian immediately.

#3. There is a fungus among us!

In some regions of the country, fall is just as wet as spring. That means that more mushrooms dot backyards and forest floors. While most mushrooms are perfectly safe, there’s a small percentage that are highly toxic to our furry friends (and to us!). Check out this handy guide from the ASPCA to stay informed about toxic mushrooms, and if you think your pet has gobbled up a toxic mushroom, contact the ASCPA  Animal Poison Control Center immediately!

#4. Feed your pet right

It’s getting colder out there, and cool temperatures mean more energy is needed to stay warm. You’ll probably need to feed your pet a bit more food – food generates body heat, so pets who spend a lot of time exercising outdoors need to eat more than in the summer. However, don’t start dishing out more food just yet – make sure you talk to your veterinarian first, as every pet’s needs are different.

#5. Watch out for antifreeze toxicity

In preparing for the winter months ahead, people tend to use fall to winterize their cars. This often involves changing fluids such as antifreeze, which can be deadly for pets. Consider this: one to two teaspoons of the stuff can kill a 10-pound dog! Less can kill a 10-pound cat.1

Part of the problem is ethylene glycol, a substance in antifreeze that has a sickly-sweet smell that entices pets to lap it up. That’s why it’s important to clean up spills immediately and make sure your pets steer clear of the garage while you’re working on your vehicle. Read our in-depth article to learn more about the dangers of antifreeze and other automotive fluids.

#6. Beware chocolate and hearty foods

The fall and winter parallel our holiday seasons when we ramp up our intake of hearty, heavy foods and sweets. It’s important to make sure your pets don’t get into any foods that can make them sick; for dogs, this means chocolate, grapes, and raisins are off-limits because they are toxic.

Just because some foods aren’t technically considered toxic to pets doesn’t mean they’re safe. Rich, high-fat foods can cause stomach problems such as diarrhea and gastroenteritis and even more serious conditions like pancreatitis. Also, think about small food items that can be choking hazards, like turkey bones around Thanksgiving.  Talk to your veterinarian to make sure you know what’s safe and what’s not.  

#7. Be careful with decorations

Holidays mean decorations! But be careful about leaving irregularly shaped objects and trinkets around the house. While you might like to get into the seasonal spirit, dogs and cats do too – in the form of sampling, say, decorative gourds or other fall props. Eating strange objects can be dangerous and lead to foreign body obstruction. Learn what to watch for, including symptoms, in our in-depth article about foreign body ingestion.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian – they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

Top tips for pet owners during autumn

With the change in seasons and the start of colder weather, it’s important for a pet owner to be aware of some of the hazards that autumn can bring.

Many pets may prefer to spend more time indoors. Maintaining your pet’s health during this time can ensure that they lead a happy life. As a pet owner, you don’t like to see your cat or dog stressed or unwell, keeping a check on their health and being aware of any dangers during the autumn season can be important.

To maintain your pet’s health and ensure they enjoy autumn with you, there are some positive things you can do, which include:

Keep up with exercise

Although the weather may be colder, it’s important to keep walking your dog. This will help to prevent any weight gain, as well as stop your dog from getting bored. As the weather changes, you could reduce the length of their walks. Your cat may also go out less so be sure to play with them to keep them active in the house. You can support your pet’s joints and mobility through the colder months with nutraquin+, a fast-acting extra-strength joint supplement for pets with signs of joint stiffness.

Diet

If your pet is spending less time outside or on walks, be sure to adjust their diet to match this. Speak to your vet if you are unsure about how much your pet should be eating at this time.

Halloween treats

Keep any Halloween chocolate and sweets away from your dog or cat, as they are poisonous and could result in a trip to the vet. Some sweets contain an artificial sweetener called Xylitol, which is poisonous to your pet.

Pumpkins

Although they are not poisonous, if consumed in large quantities, they could lead to your pet having a sensitive tummy. Also, if using candles in your pumpkins, make sure these are out of reach from your pet and can’t be knocked over.

Reduce stress

During Halloween, your pet may become stressed with people knocking on the door for trick or treat or if you have guests around. Consider using nutracalm, which is specifically formulated to naturally reduce stress and anxiety in cats and dogs. Read more tips here.

Fireworks

Autumn can be the start of fireworks season, which can cause stress for some pets. Make your pet a den to retreat to during the fireworks and closing curtains and playing music can help to block out the noise. For more advice, read our top tips to reduce anxiety during fireworks for pets.

Fleas and ticks

Parasites such as fleas and ticks are still prominent over the autumn. Speak to your vet about an appropriate solution for your pet. Be sure to check your dog and cat for ticks regularly. Be sure to check your dog after walks.  

Safety on walks

As the darker nights approach if you are walking your dog early in the morning or late at night make sure you wear reflective clothing. You could also use a reflective collar and coat for your dog, in case they get lost.

Antifreeze

As the weather gets colder, be sure to keep antifreeze locked away, as it can be attractive to your cat. It is poisonous to pets if swallowed.

Provide shelter

If your pet spends a lot of time outside, be sure to provide shelter for them for when the weather gets colder or if it rains. As the weather gets colder bring smaller pets indoors.

Acorns and conkers

These can be poisonous to your dog. Be sure to keep an eye out on walks to make sure that your dog doesn’t pick anything they shouldn’t up. If ingested conkers can also cause intestinal blockages. Speak to your vet if you think your dog may have eaten something like this.

 

If you are concerned about the health of your cat or dog, speak to your vet who is best placed to monitor their health and ensure that they are receiving the best possible care. Ask your vet about how nutravet can support your pet during this time. nutraquin+, nutracalm, nutrabio and nutramega can all aid your pet during the autumn season.

Other

Autumn Health Tips for Your Pet

There is nothing quite like a crisp autumn breeze, beautiful foliage, and the smell of warm spices baking in the kitchen. Do beware though--fall ushers in a bushel of dangers for our furry companions. Here’s how to keep your pets safe and healthy this season.

Should you increase your pet’s food?

Some pet owners believe there is an increased need for food once the summer heat dies down. Is this necessary? Several decades ago, your veterinarian may have recommended a slight increase in your pet's food consumption as the weather cooled and your pet required slightly more caloric intake to regulate his system.

Today, however, things have changed. With a shocking number of pets categorized as obese and most dogs and cats are primarily house pets, this isn't a concern for most pet parents. If you do have a very fit working dog, a small increase may be a wise idea; with this said, an increase of around 10% is probably all that is necessary. This does not mean an extra meal or an unlimited pass to treats.

The Risk of School Supplies

Many curious cats and dogs love the school and home project supplies left lying around the house. While kids may be dedicated to keeping their school supplies tidy for the first week or so, at this point in the season, school supplies may be holding living rooms hostage. School glues, permanent markers, and pencils can all cause upset stomachs. Heavy-duty glues can cause serious blockages in the GI tract and even require surgery to remove them—and part of your pet’s GI system. Make sure your children's projects stay covered up and are not accessible to your pets. Dogs in particular seem to like the flavor of glue.

This also goes for adults if you’re doing home improvement projects now that the weather has cooled off. I once had to remove over 12” of the small intestine from a dog when his owner ran to Lowe's in the middle of a flooring project. His dog “helped” in the owner’s absence by ripping up the remaining linoleum and ingesting all the remaining glue. These accidents are easily avoided but repairing the damage is never as simple.

What dangers lurk when the autumn weather sets in?

Fall brings a plethora of fun opportunities and events; however, a lot of autumn-themed food and the accompanying wildlife can be dangerous for our beloved cats and dogs.

Apple Picking – Not Apple Grazing

As it turns out, apples are not the cure to health for Fido or Fluffy. If your dog likes to graze the ground for food, consider leaving Fido at home during your stroll of the apple orchards. While the flesh of ripe apples doesn’t pose a problem for dogs or cats, apple stems, leaves, and seeds are not so gentle. They can cause GI upset, decreased oxygen in the blood, decreased heart rate, difficulty breathing, seizures, coma, and even death. With reasonable preparation, the flesh of apples can make a suitable treat for dogs but cats are unlikely to enjoy the flavor of this fruit.

Keep the Rich Foods to Yourself

Sharing human treats can be dangerous and even deadly. Stay away from desserts, candies, fatty meat and trimmings, bones, gravies, calorie-dense casseroles, and seasoned sides. Don't forget garlic and onions are toxic! Many pet parents aren't aware of the many dangerous things that can happen, such as acute and life-threatening pancreatitis, a condition brought on when a pet ingests highly fatty foods.

A note for any season: Do you know the most popular flavor of dog medication? It's CHOCOLATE! Turns out we aren't the only ones that enjoy the rich flavor of cocoa beans. Dogs will go to great lengths, or counter-top heights, to indulge in this deadly vice so don't leave the candy bowl or kitchen counter unsupervised and within a paw's reach for a moment!

Mushrooms Flourish in the Fall

While most are non-toxic, dogs are highly susceptible to mushroom poisoning because of their wandering and scavenging behavior. Unfortunately, dogs are unable to sniff out the toxic ones, so the best way to avoid trouble is to keep pets away from areas where any mushrooms are growing. Dogs should be prevented from consuming mushrooms when they are being exercised. Profuse bloody diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dehydration, fever, and elevated heart rates characterize the initial phase of mushroom toxicity. Without treatment, the pet will succumb to liver and kidney failure within 3-7 days. As with most poisonings, prompt upper gastrointestinal decontamination and supportive care are critical elements of treatment.

Snakebite Season is Here

Autumn is the season when snakes prepare for hibernation and are more likely to strike, increasing the possibility of bites on naive and curious pets. Be aware of what kinds of venomous snakes are in your area and practice snakebite prevention by avoiding the areas they most often inhabit.

What fall activities are safe for my pet?

While apple orchards may not be the best option for dogs who like to snack while they walk, there are plenty of other events pet owners can partake in!

Go Pumpkin Picking

Pumpkin patches are great for dogs to romp around in (if pet-friendly!). Whether you intend on carving the pumpkin, having a photo shoot, or more, it is a great time with your best pup. Also, pumpkin, both raw and canned, is safe provided your pet is not suffering from a chronic condition such as kidney disease or diabetes. As far as our healthy pets go, seeds and flesh of fresh, raw, or cooked pumpkins are safe. Fresh pumpkin is more nutritious than canned. If you choose to go with canned, make sure it doesn’t have added sugar or sweeteners. An easy way to have some handy dog treats around that will last several weeks is by roasting the seeds in the oven.

Trick–or–Treating

Dress your pet up in something they are comfortable in and join the fun! If you have friends with pets have a pet-themed Halloween party. But make sure to keep your dog away from any stray candy lying around.

Go on an Autumn Hike

The changing colors, falling leaves, and beautiful sunsets make for an amazing experience for both you and your dog. The cool autumn weather will refresh both of you and get you ready for a warm blanket later in the evening.

Pro Tip: Make sure to bring water for hydration and a car blanket in case the trail gets muddy.

 

What You Need To Know About Heartworm Disease

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What is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm disease is caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis, a type of roundworm that lives inside the heart and blood vessels of the lungs. Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes. It is a serious disease that primarily affects the heart and lungs but can also affect the liver, kidney, eye, and central nervous system, and if untreated, can cause death.

Symptoms

The symptoms of heartworm disease are subtle and can be easy to miss. As the number of heartworms increases, the symptoms of coughing, lethargy, exercise intolerance, lack of appetite, and weight loss become more apparent. However, it is best not to wait until symptoms develop since irreversible damage may have already occurred by then.

Who is at risk?

Heartworm disease has been found in all fifty states, though it is more prevalent in the southeast and along the Mississippi River. Studies by the American Heartworm Society (AHS) have found that heartworm infections are increasing across the United States. While most people know that heartworm disease affects dogs, many are unaware that it can also affect cats. It was once believed that cats were resistant to heartworm infections but recent studies have shown this is not the case. Cats, just like dogs, can get heartworm disease. The fact is any animal can be bitten by a mosquito and therefore become infected with the parasite. Speak with your veterinarian about your particular pet’s risks and how to protect them.

How is it diagnosed?

Heartworm disease is most commonly diagnosed using blood tests that detect the presence of heartworms. Many veterinarians run these fast, simple tests in the clinic and can give you results within minutes. Depending on the test results and the animal’s symptoms additional laboratory tests, radiographs, and a cardiac ultrasound may also be recommended to determine infection and severity. 

How is it treated?

The goal of treatment is to kill the heartworms without harming the patient. Fortunately, the treatment options have improved but they still have potential risks. Infected animals usually receive a series of intramuscular injections, hospitalization, and then strict confinement to limit exercise for weeks. The fact is, that treatment is expensive, time-consuming, and not without risks. For these reasons, the goal should always be prevention rather than treatment of this horrible disease.

Prevention

The best way to treat heartworm disease is to prevent it in the first place. Fortunately, there are numerous safe and effective preventative medications available. Heartworm preventative medications are available from your veterinarian in many forms: oral, topical, and injectable. In addition to protecting your pets from heartworm disease, many heartworm preventatives also protect your pet against other internal parasites. This is important because it helps prevent the spread of parasites. So not only are you getting heartworm protection for your pet but also peace of mind that your pet has not picked up parasites like roundworms that can be transmitted to other pets and even humans. Finally, before starting preventative medications on pets over 6 months of age, have your veterinarian test them for heartworm infection because serious complications can develop if an infected animal is started on certain preventatives.

Heartworm Disease – What Is It and What Causes It?

In an infected dog, adult female heartworms release their offspring, called microfilariae, into the dog’s bloodstream.  When a mosquito bites the infected dog, the mosquito becomes infected with the microfilariae.  Over the next 10 to 14 days and under the right environmental conditions, the microfilariae become infective larvae while living inside the mosquito.  Microfilariae must pass through a mosquito to become infective larvae.  When the infected mosquito bites another dog, the mosquito spreads the infective larvae to the dog through the bite wound.  In the newly infected dog, it takes about 6 to 7 months for the infective larvae to mature into adult heartworms.  The adult heartworms mate and the females release their offspring into the dog’s bloodstream, completing the lifecycle.  See a graphic of the heartworm lifecycle in dogs.

Heartworm disease is not contagious, meaning that a dog cannot catch the disease from being near an infected dog.  Heartworm disease is only spread through the bite of a mosquito.

Inside a dog, a heartworm’s lifespan is 5 to 7 years.  Adult heartworms look like strands of cooked spaghetti, with males reaching about 4 to 6 inches in length and females reaching about 10 to 12 inches in length.  The number of worms living inside an infected dog is called the worm burden.  The average worm burden in dogs is 15 worms, but that number can range from 1 to 250 worms. 

How is a Dog Tested for Heartworms?

A veterinarian uses blood tests to check a dog for heartworms. An antigen test detects specific heartworm proteins, called antigens, which are released by adult female heartworms into the dog’s bloodstream.  In most cases, antigen tests can accurately detect infections with one or more adult female heartworms. The earliest that the heartworm proteins can be detected in a dog’s bloodstream is about 5 months after it is bitten by an infected mosquito.    

Another test detects microfilariae in a dog’s bloodstream.  Microfilariae in the bloodstream indicate that the dog is infected with adult heartworms (because only adult heartworms can mate and produce microfilariae).  The earliest that microfilariae can be detected in a dog’s bloodstream is about 6 months after it is bitten by an infected mosquito (because it takes about that long for the heartworms to develop from infective larvae into adults that mate and produce microfilariae).

When Should a Dog Be Tested for Heartworms?

The timing and frequency of heartworm tests depend on many factors.  Some of these factors include:

• The dog’s age when heartworm prevention is started;
• If the owner forgot to give heartworm prevention and for how long;
• If the dog is switched from one type of heartworm prevention to another;
• If the dog recently traveled to an area where heartworm disease is more common; and
• The length of the heartworm season in the region where the dog lives. 

Dogs that are 7 months of age and older should be tested for heartworms before starting heartworm prevention.  A dog may appear healthy on the outside, but on the inside, heartworms may be living and thriving.  If a heartworm-positive dog is not tested before starting prevention, the dog will remain infected with adult heartworms until it gets sick enough to show symptoms. Heartworm preventives do not kill adult heartworms. Also, giving a heartworm preventive to a dog infected with adult heartworms may be harmful or deadly.  If microfilariae are in the dog’s bloodstream, the preventive may cause the microfilariae to suddenly die, triggering a shock-like reaction and possibly death. 

Annual testing of all dogs for heartworm prevention is recommended.  Talk to your dog’s veterinarian about the best time for your dog’s annual heartworm test.    

What are the Symptoms of Heartworm Disease in a Dog?

The severity of heartworm disease is related to how many worms are living inside the dog (the worm burden), how long the dog has been infected, and how the dog’s body is responding to the presence of the heartworms.  The dog’s activity level also plays a role in the severity of the disease and in when symptoms are first seen.  Symptoms of heartworm disease may not be obvious in dogs that have low worm burdens, have been recently infected, or are not very active.  Dogs that have heavy worm burdens, have been infected for a long time, or are very active often show obvious symptoms of heartworm disease. 

There are four classes, or stages, of heartworm disease.  The higher the class, the worse the disease and the more obvious the symptoms.

• Class 1:  No symptoms or mild symptoms such as an occasional cough.
• Class 2:  Mild to moderate symptoms such as an occasional cough and tiredness after moderate activity.
• Class 3:  More severe symptoms such as a sickly appearance, a persistent cough, and tiredness after mild activity.  Trouble breathing and signs of heart failure are common. For classes 2 and 3 heartworm disease, and heart and lung changes are usually seen on chest x-rays.
• Class 4:  Also called caval syndrome.  There is such a heavy worm burden that blood flowing back to the heart is physically blocked by a large mass of worms.  Caval syndrome is the life-threatening and quick surgical removal of the heartworms is the only treatment option.  The surgery is risky, and even with surgery, most dogs with caval syndrome die. 

Not all dogs with heartworm disease develop caval syndrome.  However, if left untreated, heartworm disease will progress and damage the dog’s heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys, eventually causing death.   

Is There a Treatment for Heartworm Disease in Dogs?

Melarsomine dihydrochloride (available under the trade names Immiticide and Diroban) is an arsenic-containing drug that is FDA-approved to kill adult heartworms in dogs. It's given by deep injection into the back muscles to treat dogs with stabilized class 1, 2, and 3 heartworm disease. Another drug, Advantage Multi for Dogs (imidacloprid and moxidectin), is FDA-approved to get rid of microfilariae in the dog’s bloodstream. Advantage Multi for Dogs is a topical solution applied to the dog’s skin.

The treatment for heartworm disease is not easy on the dog or on the owner’s pocketbook.  Treatment can be potentially toxic to the dog’s body and can cause serious complications, such as life-threatening blood clots in the dog’s lungs.  Treatment is expensive because it requires multiple visits to the veterinarian, blood tests, x-rays, hospitalization, and a series of injections.        

The Best Treatment is Prevention!

Many products are FDA-approved to prevent heartworms in dogs.  All require a veterinarian’s prescription.  Most products are given monthly, either as a topical liquid applied on the skin or as an oral tablet.  Both chewable and non-chewable oral tablets are available.  One product is injected under the skin every 6 or 12 months, and only a veterinarian can give the injection.  Some heartworm preventives contain other ingredients that are effective against certain intestinal worms (such as roundworms and hookworms) and other parasites (such as fleas, ticks, and ear mites). 

Year-round prevention is best!  Talk to your dog’s veterinarian to decide which preventive is best for your dog. 

The American Heartworm SocietyExternal Link Disclaimer advocates to “Think 12." Give dogs 12 months of heartworm prevention and get them tested for heartworms every 12 months. 

Can Cats Get Heartworm Disease?

Cats can also get heartworms after being bitten by an infected mosquito, although they are not as susceptible to infection as dogs.  A cat is not a natural host of heartworms because the worms do not thrive as well inside a cat’s body.  Both indoor and outdoor cats are at risk for heartworm disease.

Is Heartworm Disease Different in Cats?

Heartworm disease in cats is a bit different than in dogs.  Heartworms in cats do not live as long (average lifespan is only 2 to 4 years) or grow as long, and fewer of them mature into adults.  Worm burdens are lower in cats than dogs. Usually, a cat has only one or two worms. However, due to its relatively small body size, a cat with only a few worms is still considered to be heavily infected.

In cats, it takes 7 to 8 months for infective larvae to mature into adult heartworms and produce microfilariae.  This is about one month longer than in dogs.  The presence of microfilariae in a cat’s bloodstream is uncommon.  Only 20 percent of cats with heartworm disease have microfilariae in the bloodstream, compared to 80 to 90 percent of dogs with heartworm disease.  Also, the presence of microfilariae in the bloodstream is inconsistent and short-lived in cats.   

It is harder to detect heartworm infections in cats than in dogs.  Veterinarians generally use two types of blood tests in combination to check a cat for heartworms.  However, negative test results do not rule out heartworm infection, and positive test results may or may not mean that there is an active heartworm infection.  A veterinarian uses the results of both blood tests, along with the cat’s symptoms and the results of other tests such as x-rays and an ultrasound of the heart, to determine if a cat has heartworm disease.

What are the Symptoms of Heartworm Disease in Cats?

Not all cats with heartworm disease show symptoms. Some cats are able to spontaneously rid themselves of heartworms without having any symptoms. However, some infected cats die suddenly from heartworm disease without ever showing signs of being sick. Cats with heartworm disease may have very nonspecific symptoms that mimic many other cat diseases. These nonspecific symptoms include vomiting, decreased activity and appetite, and weight loss. Cats with heartworm disease rarely show signs of heart failure.

In cats that show symptoms of heartworm disease, respiratory signs are the most obvious due to the lung damage caused by the heartworms.  Cats typically show symptoms of heartworm disease at two-time points – when the immature heartworms arrive in the arteries of the heart and lungs and when the adult heartworms die.

The immature heartworms arrive in the heart and lung arteries about 3 to 4 months after a cat is bitten by an infected mosquito.  Many of these immature heartworms die, causing a strong inflammatory response in the cat’s lungs.  This response is called heartworm-associated respiratory disease (HARD) because respiratory signs, such as trouble breathing, increased respiratory rate, and cough, are the most obvious. It may be difficult to distinguish HARD from feline asthma or feline bronchitis.

When adult heartworms die, they release toxins into the cat’s bloodstream which causes lung damage, leading to respiratory problems or sudden death.  Even the death of one worm can be fatal for a cat.

There is no FDA-approved drug to treat heartworm disease in cats, although symptoms may be managed with medications.  Surgical removal of adult heartworms may be a treatment option if the heartworms can be seen by ultrasound.  But surgery is risky, and if the heartworms are not removed intact, there can be potentially serious complications, such as shock and death. 

Again, Prevention is the Best Treatment!

Several products are FDA-approved to prevent heartworms in cats.  There are both topical and oral products for cats, and all are given monthly and require a veterinarian’s prescription.  Some heartworm preventives contain other ingredients that are effective against certain intestinal worms (such as roundworms and hookworms) and other parasites (such as fleas, ticks, and ear mites).

Again, year-round prevention is best!  Talk to your cat’s veterinarian to decide which preventive is best for your cat.

Should Cats Be Tested for Heartworms?

It is recommended that cats be tested for heartworms before starting heartworm prevention, although this pre-testing is less useful than in dogs. Talk to your cat’s veterinarian about testing your cat for heartworms. 

What about Heartworm Disease in Ferrets?

Ferrets can also get heartworms from the bite of an infected mosquito.  Ferrets are similar to dogs in their susceptibility to heartworm infections, but their symptoms are more similar to those seen in cats. 

Infected ferrets typically have low worm burdens, and microfilariae are seen in the bloodstream in only 50 to 60 percent of ferrets with heartworm disease.  Symptoms of heartworm disease in ferrets include decreased activity level, coughing, trouble breathing, and overall weakness.  Heart failure can occur in severe cases.  Based on a ferret’s symptoms, a veterinarian may perform chest x-rays and an ultrasound of the heart to determine if it has heartworm disease.  Blood tests to detect heartworm infections in ferrets are generally unreliable.

No drugs are FDA-approved to treat heartworm disease in ferrets. And only one drug, Advantage Multi for Cats (imidacloprid and moxidectin), is approved to prevent heartworms in ferrets. Available only with a veterinarian’s prescription, it is a topical solution that is applied monthly. Besides preventing heartworms, Advantage Multi for Cats also treats flea infestations on ferrets by killing adult fleas.

Again, prevention is the best treatment!  Year-round prevention is recommended for all ferrets.  Talk to your ferret’s veterinarian about preventing heartworm disease in your furry friend. 

Can People Get Heartworms From Their Pets?

People cannot get heartworms from their pets.  Heartworms are only transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito.  In rare cases, people can get heartworms after being bitten by an infected mosquito.  But because people are not a natural host for heartworms, the larvae usually migrate to the arteries of the heart and lungs and die before they become adult worms.

Thyroid Tumor Surgery in Cats

 

Thyroid Tumor Surgery in Cats

Did you know that cats can have a hyperactive thyroid gland? Also known as hyperthyroidism, it’s a fairly common condition in older cats. In fact, the vast majority of affected cats are older than 10 years of age. Most of the time, the reason is either a benign tumor or benign enlargement of the thyroid gland(s).

What is hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is when thyroid glands work overtime and produce too much thyroid hormone. Because this hormone controls many organs, it can lead to multiple consequences:

• Weight loss, despite an increase in appetite
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea
• Irritable or aggressive behavior
• Increased drinking and urination
• Increased heart rate
• A heart murmur
• Poor hair coat
• Increased activity

Occasionally, a chubby couch potato kitty with gorgeous hair may turn into a skinny old cat with a rough hair coat, running around the house like a maniac.

How is hyperthyroidism diagnosed?

Since some of the signs of hyperthyroidism can be similar to other diseases, it’s important to perform a full workup. This starts with a thorough physical exam. A small nodule on the thyroid can often be felt by your veterinarian.

Blood work, including measurement of the thyroid hormone level, is the next logical step. The increased metabolic rate of hyperthyroidism can hide kidney issues and cause heart complications, so both should be monitored before and after treatment has been started. This requires blood work, X-rays, and ultrasound.

How is hyperthyroidism treated?
There are several treatment options:

• Methimazole is a medication that fights hyperthyroidism. It is usually given by mouth, every single day. Methimazole can also be compounded into a cream that is applied to the skin of the ear daily (transdermal application). This is a life-long treatment.
• I know about at least one special diet that is very low in iodine and was introduced a few years ago. If your veterinarian recommends this option, this is the only food your cat should eat for good results.
• Veterinary endocrinologists consider IV radioactive iodine treatment as the gold standard for hyperthyroidism.
• Surgery to remove the tumor is an option, although it is less and less common. It’s a delicate surgery but in good hands, it is highly successful.

What are the risks of thyroid surgery?

In addition to the risks of anesthesia [see common anesthesia myths here], one of the main risks of surgery is damage or accidental removal of the parathyroid glands. There are two parathyroid glands on each side: one inside each thyroid gland, and one just outside of each thyroid gland. When we remove the thyroid gland, we remove the “internal” parathyroid gland. If we remove both thyroid glands, then we remove both internal parathyroid glands. So there are only two external parathyroid glands left. If they are removed accidentally, along with a large thyroid mass, or if they are damaged during surgery, then three or even all four parathyroid glands might be removed.

As a consequence, the cat may have a complication called hypocalcemia, which means that the calcium levels in the bloodstream are dangerously low.

What medications are needed after thyroid surgery?
Besides the usual pain medications and antibiotics, hypocalcemia (low calcium) needs to be managed if it develops. This is typically done by giving calcium supplements and/or vitamin D. Their dosages are slowly tapered over time as the body slowly takes over. In addition, calcium is provided once the cat eats enough food.

What is the outcome of hyperthyroidism treatment?
Thyroid cancer (adenocarcinoma) is an aggressive tumor but thankfully very rare. The outcome for that is usually poor.

Benign tumors (adenomas) and benign enlargement of the thyroid gland are much more common and have a much better outcome. However, the outcome also depends on whether complications occur with the kidneys or the heart. Most cats live years after the initial diagnosis.

As with any disease, the sooner you address it, the more options you have and the better the outcome. If your cat is acting out of sorts in any way, please see your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Questions to ask your vet if your cat has a thyroid mass:

• What is the best treatment for my cat?
• What are the risks of anesthesia?
• What are the risks of surgery?

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

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Other,

Thyroidectomy in Cats

What is Thyroidectomy?

Thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing one or both thyroid glands. Thyroidectomy is used to treat hyperthyroidism, a common condition in older cats in which the thyroid glands produce extra amounts of thyroid hormones. Thyroidectomy is also used to treat select cases of thyroid cancer. The surgery has a high success rate, although postoperative complications are possible.

Thyroidectomy Procedure in Cats

There are a few different surgical techniques veterinary surgeons can use to remove the thyroid gland(s). The technique used will depend on whether or not both glands need to be removed. The procedure steps for both single (unilateral) thyroid removal and total (bilateral) thyroid removal will be discussed below. These techniques carry the lowest risk of complication and the highest rate of success.

Preoperative Preparations

1. For a few weeks prior to surgery, cats will be required to take oral medications to help them gain weight, lower their heart rate, and prepare them for the general anesthetic.
2. The surgeon may take blood tests prior to surgery to confirm kidney function.
3. The cat will first be anesthetized.

Unilateral Thyroidectomy

1. The surgeon will make the initial entry incision and identify the enlarged thyroid or tumor.
2. The thyroid capsule is then cut, and the surgeon will take care to avoid damaging the parathyroid gland.
3. The external parathyroid gland and surrounding thyroid capsule will then be dissected, or separated, from the tumor.
4. The blood supply to the tumor will be cut off using bipolar cautery.
5. Once the blood supply has been ligated, the tumor will be removed along with the surrounding thyroid capsule.
6. The thyroid capsule surrounding the parathyroid gland will be left in place to ensure proper blood flow and prevent complications from parathyroid damage.
7. The surgeon will ensure all diseased portions of the thyroid have been removed before suturing the wound closed with absorbable sutures.
8. The initial entry site will then be sutured

Bilateral Thyroidectomy

1. The surgeon will repeat the steps listed above to remove the other thyroid gland.
2. Some surgeons may suggest that the removal of the second thyroid gland take place three to four weeks following the removal of the first. However, this is may not be ideal, particularly because the disease is more common in older cats that are susceptible to complications associated with general anesthesia.

Efficacy of Thyroidectomy in Cats

The efficacy of the surgical procedure will depend on the underlying condition. While there are some valid concerns about administering general anesthesia to older cats, the surgery is short and typically cures hyperthyroidism in the majority of cats. For cases of thyroid cancer, the prognosis is usually guarded due to the condition of the heart at the time of surgery.

Thyroidectomy Recovery in Cats

Owners should ensure that cats rest during the recovery period and drink plenty of water. Cats that have undergone thyroidectomy will usually be prescribed anti-inflammatory medications and analgesics for pain management. Cats may be required to wear an Elizabethan collar to prevent them from irritating the surgery site. Owners should check the surgery site daily to ensure no bleeding, pus, or swelling has developed. Follow-up appointments will typically be scheduled for a few days following surgery, and again two to three weeks following surgery to monitor healing and remove sutures.

Cost of Thyroidectomy in Cats

The cost of thyroidectomy will vary based on other costs incurred, such as medications and supportive care. The cost of thyroidectomy on its own can range from $900 to $1,200.

Cat Thyroidectomy Considerations

Though the surgery is generally curative in most cases, complications after surgery are possible. If one thyroid gland is removed, the other thyroid gland may become diseased over time and will also have to be removed. The condition may recur in the same thyroid gland because a small amount of thyroid capsule tissue is not removed. In some cases, surgery reveals problems with kidney function, which is why surgeons will generally attempt to assess kidney function prior to surgery. 

There is also a chance that thyroidectomy will cause damage to the parathyroid gland. This can cause calcium levels to drop, which can lead to serious complications such as tremors and seizures. Damage to the parathyroid gland is generally managed with calcium and vitamin D supplementation, which is usually successful. For cases of thyroid cancer, there is a chance that the condition can recur following surgery.

Thyroidectomy Prevention in Cats

Hyperthyroidism has been linked to pollutants in the environment, such as:

• BPA: A chemical used to make certain plastics
• PBDE: A flame-retardant chemical used in foam and plastics
• Soy isoflavones: A plant derivative often found in commercial cat food 

Owners are encouraged not to use plastic food or water bowls as these may contain toxic chemicals known to cause hyperthyroidism. Certain cat litter may also contain harmful chemicals that cause hyperthyroidism. Fish-based commercial diets may also play a role in the development of hyperthyroidism. Diets that are also incredibly low or high in iodine should be avoided.

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