Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” collection, the place each Monday we carry skilled recommendation straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to assist our readers higher perceive their cat’s well being and well-being.

Whether or not you’re a brand new pet mum or dad or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is right here to offer solutions to your most urgent questions. From vitamin suggestions and preventive care to troubleshooting frequent behavioral points, Dr. Paola is able to supply insights that may hold your kitty pleased, wholesome, and feline tremendous. Keep tuned for skilled steerage on a spread of subjects that matter most to you and your cat, so you can also make knowledgeable selections and supply the absolute best care to your furry companion. ‎

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Assist! My Cat Has Bumps & Scabs!

“Expensive Dr. Paola,

Daisy is a 4-year-old, indoor cat and by no means goes exterior, she is a little bit chubby however not overweight. She has some bumps on her again close to the bottom of her tail which might be like pimples with scabs and has began to have dandruff. She doesn’t appear to be itching them however I can see that they irritate some as a result of I’ve seen her take a look at the world and transfer prefer it bothers her. I feel it’s a weight-reduction plan drawback however I don’t know. She solely eats dry meals however good high quality, Blue Buffalo, Iams, and so on. Would a complement be so as? What would possibly she be lacking?” – William

 

Hello William! Daisy’s bumps, scabs, and dandruff close to the bottom of her tail may have a number of causes. Flea allergy is a typical subject, even for indoor cats, as fleas can discover their method inside. If she isn’t on flea prevention, I’d advocate discussing this along with your vet.
Her weight-reduction plan can also play a job. Dry-only diets can lack hydration and omega-3 fatty acids, each necessary for pores and skin well being. Your vet might advocate including a cat-safe omega-3 fish oil complement and incorporating moisture-rich, species-appropriate meals can assist enhance her pores and skin and coat. It’s greatest to have your vet verify her to rule out allergic reactions, infections, or different points. You’re doing nice by paying shut consideration to her indicators!

Greatest needs!
Dr. Paola

Assist! My Cats Fur is Thinning!

“Expensive Dr. Paola,

We’ve been caring for a feral cat (Oscar) for a number of years. He’s gotten pleasant solely with us for the previous yr. We seen skinny areas on his fur, totally on the edges close to the backbone. We thought it was from him rubbing alongside brick steps. We’ve noticed him utilizing his tooth to tug fur out after grooming the world. We don’t suppose there may be any fungus or mites that’s inflicting this as he doesn’t trouble the world as soon as the fur is pulled out. Might he have anxiousness? What could be finished about it if he does have that? Thanks” – Susie

Hello Susie, it’s heartwarming to listen to how a lot care you’ve given to Oscar. Ferals are wild creatures and don’t typically get pleasant to people, congratulations on successful him over. You might be prone to be the one ones of our species he realized to not run away from. Congratulations in your endurance and persistence.

The fur thinning and pulling you’ve seen could possibly be stress-related, but it surely’s necessary to rule out different causes, akin to allergic reactions, pores and skin irritations, or ache from underlying points like arthritis. Cats typically overgroom as a method to deal with discomfort, whether or not bodily or emotional.

If anxiousness is the trigger, environmental elements like a constant routine, protected areas, and calming pheromone diffusers (e.g., Feliway) which you would need to put as a collar may assist, though it can possible be a problem to place and monitor. I’m assuming you might be feeding him so guaranteeing he’s on a high-quality weight-reduction plan with omega-3 fatty acids can also help his pores and skin well being. A vet go to could be key to rule out different medical considerations and discover choices like dietary supplements or anxiousness medicine if wanted. Nonetheless, that may contain a transport field. Your attentive care is making an actual distinction for him!

Sincerely,
Dr. Paola

Assist! My Cat Is Constipated!

“Expensive Dr. Paola,

My (senior) cat Meeshu will get constipated now and again, and I give her a small quantity of Miralax. Sure, I learn about Lax-a-tone, however she received’t have something to do with it—whether or not I put it on her paw or combine it in her meals. My query is, how a lot Miralax ought to I give her? She’s 19 years outdated and doesn’t weigh a lot. Thanks!”
– Vicki

Congratulations on the unbelievable care you’ve given Meeshu! At 19 years outdated, she’s surpassed the typical cat’s lifespan, which actually displays your dedication and love.

Constipation in senior cats, like Meeshu, typically outcomes from points akin to dehydration, arthritis making it arduous for her to posture, or age-related slowing of her digestive system. Consider her gastrointestinal tract like an older automotive engine, it wants a little bit further care and the best “gas” to maintain issues operating easily. Whereas Miralax is often used to handle constipation in cats, I can’t safely advocate a dosage, since we don’t have a direct doctor-patient relationship. A veterinarian who is aware of her well being historical past is one of the best individual to find out the most secure and simplest strategy, and with senior cats, this tailor-made care is particularly necessary.

Within the meantime, there are steps you may take to help her digestion. Hydration is essential, very like protecting oil in that engine. Attempt providing a number of water stations, including low-sodium broth to her meals, or specializing in moist meals to spice up her water consumption. Introducing a small quantity of plain canned pumpkin (with out components) is like including fiber to her system, serving to issues transfer extra effectively. Simply remember to introduce any adjustments step by step to keep away from upsetting her abdomen.

You’re doing an unbelievable job, and Meeshu is so fortunate to have you ever championing her well being and happiness in her golden years!