Click to Skip Ahead Reasons Why Cat Obesity Is Dangerous How to Determine if Your Cat Is Overweight Ways to Combat Obesity Importance of a Healthy Weight A large percentage of households in North America share their homes with a feline companion. A recent 2022 survey by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention suggests that 61% of owned cats are overweight, with 38% of those being classified as obese. 1 Obesity is defined as being more than 20% over the ideal body weight. This is a growing concern and needs to be addressed due to the undeniable health risk it poses. Below are seven ways cat obesity can be dangerous to your companion. The 7 Reasons Why Cat Obesity Is Dangerous 1. Increased risk of Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes mellitus is a condition defined as high levels of glucose found in the blood and urine. Type II diabetes typically occurs in cats due to inadequate insulin production, the hormone responsible for glucose regulation. Signs of diabetes mellitus include drastic weight loss, an increase in urination/water intake, and changes in appetite. Cats that have developed diabetes need help in controlling their blood glucose levels through a strict diet, weight loss, and glucose regulation, which is typically achieved through insulin therapy. Treatment of diabetes requires time and dedication from the pet owner, as most cats will receive twice-daily injections of insulin. Inadequate control of diabetes mellitus can lead to complications including secondary urinary tract infections, diabetic ketoacidosis, and poor quality of life. Cats can experience remission from diabetes with appropriate treatment and weight loss. Image Credit: Almi, Pixabay 2. Arthritis Obesity significantly increases the chances of arthritis and limits mobility. Cats that are considered obese carry, at minimum, 20% over their ideal body weight, putting added strain on their small frame, leading to boney changes. Additionally, fat releases different substances that cause inflammation, which further causes discomfort. As a patient becomes arthritic, weight loss becomes harder to achieve as patient discomfort increases. Supportive therapies like joint supplements and pain relief are suggested. It is recommended that you speak with your veterinarian to learn more information regarding possible interventions. 3. Increased Anesthetic Risk Like humans, obesity causes strain on the heart, which can lead to cardiac changes and hypertension. Additionally, obese patients often struggle with respirations due to the inability to fully expand their chest secondary to fat accumulation. These factors are associated with an increased risk of anesthetic complications 1. Obese patients will require respiratory support in the form of preoxygenation and ventilation during anesthesia. Drug dosing and selection must be adjusted in overweight cats and recovery time may be prolonged. Image Credit: jklugiewicz, Pixabay 4. Hepatic Lipidosis After food intake has decreased suddenly for a few days, whether due to diet restrictions or illness, the overweight cat’s body doesn’t know how to properly respond. Instead of using stored fat properly, the liver fails at trying to process fat, and fat enters the cells of the liver in a condition called hepatic lipidosis. Once this occurs, the liver is not able to function appropriately, and systemic ramifications are noted. Signs of hepatic lipidosis can include anorexia, lethargy, jaundice (accumulation of bilirubin causing skin and mucus membranes to turn yellow), sudden weight loss, vomiting, and death. 5. Lower Urinary Tract Disease Overweight cats are more likely to develop Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), a broad term used to describe conditions impacting the bladder and urethra. Examples of FLUTD include idiopathic cystitis, urinary tract infections, and bladder stones. Cats experiencing FLUTD may have difficulty urinating, have blood in their urine, or urinate in inappropriate locations. Obese cats are more prone to the development of FLUTD due to their lifestyle. Generally, overweight cats are sedentary and confined indoors. Both factors lead to stress and boredom in the cat, significantly increasing the risk of FLUTD development. Fat stimulates the release of inflammatory cells, which also contributes to the development of FLUTD. Image Credit Eveline de Bruin, Pixabay 6. Constipation Constipation may occur in patients dealing with obesity due to changes in mobility. Unfortunately, obese patients often struggle to gain access to the litter box, and the inability to hold a position makes it harder to defecate. As a result, patients may not defecate regularly or completely, leading to a backup of stool. 7. Shorter Lifespan Obesity leads to a shorter life expectancy due to the above-mentioned health concerns and a perceived decrease in quality of life. Owners do not want to see their beloved companion become sedentary or struggle with day-to-day tasks. As a result, humane euthanasia may be pursued in some severe cases. How to Determine if Your Cat Is Overweight Your veterinarian will assign your pet a body condition score during a routine physical exam based on several parameters illustrated in the WSAVA body condition score chart. You can also utilize this chart to try to determine on your own the body condition of your companion. Body condition charts typically use a nine-point scale, with the ideal body condition score falling in the middle, and obesity as being at the higher end of the scale. Ways to Combat Obesity The goal for patients suffering from obesity is weight loss. This can be achieved through two main routes: diet and exercise. Your veterinarian is an excellent resource to help guide you on weight loss for your cat. It is recommended to frequently weigh your cat to ensure weight loss is gradual and to use achieved weight loss to adjust treatment plans. Exercise The idea of exercising a cat sounds impossible; however, it can be done! Simple things like placing your cat’s food bowl far away from their preferred lounging location or 1–2 minutes of laser pointer play promote activity. There are toys designed that release a few kibbles at a time when batted around by your cat that can be a fun way to encourage activity while also providing a reward. Rehabilitation programs may also be available through your veterinarian. [sc name=”hepper-hi-lo-cat-scratcher-mention-1″][/sc] Diet Your veterinarian can help guide you on ways to adjust your cat’s diet to achieve weight loss. It is very important that weight loss is gradual. No more than 0.5–2% of body weight should be lost on a weekly basis. As mentioned above, a drastic decrease in caloric intake can result in hepatic lipidosis. A diet change from a high carbohydrate diet to a high protein diet will likely be recommended. This may be achieved by switching your feline companion from a dry food to a canned diet, as these tend to be lower in carbohydrates. There are also specific veterinary diets available through your veterinarian designed to promote weight loss. Importance of a Healthy Weight Obesity poses several health risks to your feline companion. Improving your obese cat’s body condition will drastically improve your cat’s quality of life and life expectancy. Weight loss should be a gradual process and consultation with a veterinarian can help safely achieve this goal. Sources AVMA Merck Manual Pet MD Pet Obesity Prevention Vet Info VCA Hospitals VCA Hospitals VCA Hospitals VCA Hospitals VCA Hospitals Veterinary Partners Veterinary Partners Veterinary Partners VIN VIN WSAVA Featured Image Credit: Dennis van de Water, Shutterstock The post 7 Reasons Why Cat Obesity Is Dangerous (Vet Answer) appeared first on PangoVet.

Click to Skip Ahead Tips for Preventing Poop-Eating Reasons Why Dogs Eat Poop However revolting the idea of coprophagia—poop eating—is to us humans, it’s a natural and common behavior in some dogs. To put this into perspective, a 2012 study revealed that 16% of dogs observed were seen eating poop more than six times, while 23% of the dogs observed ate poop at least once.1 Poop-eating is especially common in curious puppies and mother dogs cleaning up after their pups. All that said, though it’s a natural behavior, poop-eating is something you’ll want to nip in the bud due to the risk of bacterial infections or parasites like roundworms, hookworms, or whipworms. In this guide, we’ll share some tips on curbing your dog’s poop-eating habit and explain why dogs do this. The 9 Tips for Preventing Poop-Eating If you regularly catch your dog chowing down on unmentionables, stay calm no matter how grossed-out you feel. Avoid getting angry or punishing your dog. Remember that this behavior is normal for them, and they don’t perceive it as disgusting like we do. Instead, try out some of these tips. 1. See Your Vet Image Credit: LightField Studios, Shutterstock The first and most important thing to do is to get your serial poop eater checked out by a vet to make sure a medical issue isn’t causing the behavior. A nutritional deficiency is an example of a potential cause, and your vet may prescribe some supplements to help improve the situation if a deficiency is diagnosed. Other potential underlying triggers could include conditions related to malabsorption, dementia, certain medications, diabetes, parasites, thyroid issues, or Cushing’s disease. 2. Limit Access to Poop Pick up poop as quickly as possible—whether that’s from a cat’s litter box or your yard—to prevent your dog from getting to it. It’s wise to do a quick check of your yard before you let your dog out to play, too. If your dog is obsessed with your cat’s litter box, try putting it in a dog- inaccessible area. 3. Consider a Muzzle Image Credit: Reshetnikov_art, Shutterstock Some people muzzle their dogs to prevent unpleasant incidents from occurring when out on walks. Popular choices for this purpose include basket muzzles, which are nice and roomy but bar the dog from scavenging, and field guards, which also protect your dog’s eyes, nose, and ears from foxtails. 4. Use Distraction Techniques If you see your dog heading for some poop, call their name and distract them with their favorite toy, like a tug-of-war toy or a ball. Better yet, if your dog likes to carry items, give them a toy to carry when out on walks. Just be careful doing this if your dog is very protective of their toys, as they may not take kindly to other dogs approaching while they’re carrying their treasured possession. 5. Leash Your Dog Image Credit: N K, Shutterstock Keeping your dog on a leash when out and about is the best way to stay in control of the situation. If you’re in a park or forest, longer leashes offer your dog more room to roam while making sure you maintain an element of control. 6. Check Your Dog’s Diet Check that your dog is eating the right amount of food recommended for their body weight. You’ll find this information on the food’s packaging. If they’re not eating enough or the diet consists of low-quality food, the dog may scavenge to compensate. Feeding small, frequent meals from a quality brand may help with this. If you want to change to a more filling formula, get the green light from your vet first. 7. Mentally Stimulate Your Dog Image Credit: Masarik, Shutterstock It’s not uncommon for dogs to eat poop out of boredom or as an attention-seeking measure. If you think your dog may be doing this to get your attention, don’t react. This shows the dog that their behavior gets no response from you. Instead, make sure your dog is getting enough physical and mental exercise throughout the day, as this will tire them out, release pent-up energy, and make poop-eating a less attractive prospect. 8. Teach a “Leave It” Cue Sure, it’s not easy to condition dogs not to scavenge, as it’s an instinctive behavior for them. Nevertheless, it can help to work on a “leave it” cue you can use whenever your dog approaches something stinky or dangerous. There are various ways to teach this command, but one method is to take a treat in your hand, make sure your dog knows it’s there, put your hand out to the side, and put the arm behind your back every time the dog tries to jump for the treat. When your dog can break from trying to get the treat or staring at it in your hand to look elsewhere instead, they get rewarded with a “yes” or a click from a clicker and a treat from your other hand. After practicing this for a while, you can add the verbal cue “leave it.” Again, there isn’t only one way to teach a command, so you can always try other things if this doesn’t work for you. 9. Add Certain Foods to the Diet Image Credit: LightField Studios, Shutterstock Some theorize that adding certain foods—like pineapple—to their diet can make poop less appetizing and may work as a way to prevent poop eating. There are even supplements in chew and powder form designed specifically for dogs who engage in coprophagia. There’s no guarantee these will work, though—some dogs can be pretty persistent– but it may be worth a try. Just be sure to speak to your vet before adding any foods or supplements to your dog’s diet. Why Do Dogs Eat Poop? The most basic reason some dogs may like to eat poop is that they like how it tastes. Gross as that sounds, a dog’s idea of what tastes and smells good isn’t the same as ours. Moreover, dogs use their noses and mouths to navigate the world around them and get information about things. Other reasons your dog may be eating poop include: Puppy Behavior Puppies have an extra keen sense of curiosity and spend a lot of time exploring their big and strange new world, which may lead them to “experiment” with poop-eating. They may also do it because they’ve seen their mother doing it, and it’s normal for puppies to mimic their mom’s behaviors. Motherly Behavior One of the ways a mother dog keeps her puppies and their environment clean is by eating their poop. This behavior also stems from a dog’s wild ancestors who use it as a survival technique: If there’s no poop around, there’s a reduced risk of bacteria and parasites that could make puppies sick. Furthermore, if puppies smell poop on their mother’s breath, it can make it hard for them to tell the difference between poop and food. This is referred to as “appetitive inoculation” by Steven R. Lindsay, an animal behaviorist who wrote the Handbook of Applied Behavior and Training. Image Credit: MDV Edwards, Shutterstock Hunger or Greed Some dogs are simply greedier than others. According to the 2012 study we mentioned in the introduction, dogs reported as being particularly greedy were among the more prolific poop eaters. Likewise, a dog that’s underfed or eats low-quality food may scavenge for poop to redress the balance. Boredom or Anxiety If a dog is understimulated, they may eat poop as a way of entertaining themselves or getting attention from you. Separation anxiety is another potential cause, which, in addition to triggering a dog to eat things they shouldn’t, can also trigger destructive behaviors like chewing or scratching furniture or going to the bathroom inside the house. Illness As we touched on further up, dogs with certain medical conditions or nutritional deficiencies may be driven to eat poop. Conditions that cause an increase in appetite are particular risk factors, but various conditions could be behind the behavior. Image Credit: Renko Aleks, Shutterstock Breed, Type, or Sex One of the findings in the 2012 study into canine coprophagia was that hounds and terriers are more likely than other breeds to eat poop. As for whether sex plays a role, the study revealed that spayed female dogs are the biggest poop eaters, whereas intact males are less likely to engage in this behavior. Multiple-dog Households The same 2012 study mentioned above also found that multi-dog households are more likely to contain poop-eaters. This is most likely because there is additional feces available to them. Final Thoughts While your dog eating poop isn’t the most delightful scene to witness, the good news is that there are ways to turn things around for the better with a little patience and consistency. To reiterate, it’s wise to get a vet checkup first to rule out health conditions and pick up some expert advice on how to remedy the situation. Sources https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/dog-behavior-problems-coprophagia#:~:text=Feeding%20a%20poorly%20digestible%20diet,appetite%20and%20possibly%20stool%20eating Featured Image Credit: Monika Wisniewska, Shutterstock The post How to Stop Dogs From Eating Poop: 9 Vet-Verified Tips appeared first on PangoVet.

Whether you own a pet rabbit or you’re watching them in your garden, one of the most fascinating parts of a rabbit is their teeth. At first blush, they don’t look all that different from ours, and in many ways, they may appear the same. But while rabbit teeth are similar to ours in many ways, in others, they’re completely different. The more you learn, the more interesting they become. With that in mind, we’ve highlighted 10 of the most surprising and interesting facts about rabbit teeth for you here. The 10 Facts About Rabbit Teeth 1. They Never Stop Growing The reason you need to provide so much grass and hay for your rabbit isn’t only because they need all that food. It’s also because otherwise, their teeth will overgrow! They need grass and hay constantly to help them safely and efficiently digest food, using most of the otherwise indigestible fiber, but keeping their teeth in check is a big part of it. Image Credit: Thurid_with_th, Shutterstock 2. Rabbits Have 28 Teeth While cartoons really only highlight a rabbit’s front teeth, they have a mouthful of chompers! They have incisors, premolars, and molars to help them tear food apart and chew it up. Their front teeth are fairly sharp and help them chew through and bite off pieces of food, but once it’s torn up, the teeth in their cheek area grind it up into something smaller for them to safely swallow. 3. Rabbits Need Fiber to Wear Down Their Teeth Rabbits need food with tons of fiber. Not only is all this fiber necessary for their digestive health, but it’s also a key component in what wears down their teeth. The fibrous portion of their diet does a great job of grinding away at them, which your rabbit needs so their teeth don’t overgrow. 4. Rabbit Teeth Can Break Rabbit teeth are far from indestructible, and all it takes is for them to chew on some hard food the wrong way or get into a fight with another rabbit for one of their teeth to break. Already damaged or unhealthy teeth are more easily broken. Dental fractures in rabbits can be incidental or very serious, and if they involve the pulp, the tooth may become infected and die. Either way, they will need to be checked by a veterinary dentist, as some teeth may be removed or need adequate treatment. Image Credit: Habichtland, Shutterstock 5. Rabbits Teeth Grow Curved While you might think an overgrown rabbit tooth would grow straight down, that’s not the case. Rabbit’s teeth are cylindrical and have a natural curve. If a rabbit’s tooth starts to get too long, due to malocclusion or inability to meet the opposite tooth straight on, it starts to curve even more, which creates all kinds of problems for them. It’s kind of how human nails will curve after being too long—they don’t just keep growing straight out! This can cause sharp spurs, the tongue can become trapped, and the rabbit will be in pain and may struggle to eat. 6. Rabbits Use Their Teeth Just Like Us While rabbits have different dietary needs and unique teeth, the way they use those teeth is pretty straightforward. Their incisors in the front of their mouth tear away at the food to make it easier to fit into their mouth, and from there, the premolars and molars in the side of their mouth grind the food up into smaller bits. That’s the same way our teeth work. So really, a rabbit’s mouth isn’t all that different from ours. Or is it? 7. Rabbit’s Upper Incisors Only Have Enamel on One Side One thing that’s extremely unique, interesting, and important with a rabbit’s upper incisors is that they only have enamel on one side of them. Enamel is hard and helps protect your teeth, but a rabbit needs to ensure their front teeth always stay sharp and grind down a bit so they don’t overgrow. That’s why their incisors only have enamel on the outside. This protects the teeth from external factors, but it allows them to constantly stay sharp and wear down when they’re chewing. Image Credit: Victoria Paladiy, Shutterstock 8. You Don’t Need to Brush Rabbit Teeth One advantage of grinding their teeth down little by little each day is that there’s no good reason to brush them. And most would not really allow it, anyway. You brush your teeth so they don’t rot, but no particular part of the rabbit’s teeth will stay in their mouth for long enough for this to be a problem, as they are always growing. So, the next time you see some pet toothpaste in the pet care aisle, leave it there—your rabbit doesn’t need it! 9. You Can’t Neglect Rabbit Dental Care Just because you don’t need to brush their teeth doesn’t mean you can neglect their oral hygiene. You need to ensure their teeth stay sharp, healthy, and at the right length; otherwise, your rabbit is going to be in a world of trouble. If you suspect that your rabbit is having some sort of dental issue, you need to take them to a vet right away so they can address it. Rabbits don’t want pain in their mouth any more than the rest of us, and they are particularly sensitive to it, and it’s up to you to ensure their mouth stays pain-free day after day. Otherwise, they may get digestive issues, as they are not able to eat their food comfortably. This can lead to another serious illness called gut stasis, which may be life-threatening if not treated promptly. 10. Rabbits Chew Super Fast If you’ve ever paid attention to a rabbit eating, you’ve probably seen them chewing like crazy. That’s not a trick of the eye. A rabbit can make up to 120 jaw movements a minute, which means their mouth is going side to side and front to back in a circular kind of motion  twice a second! All that movement allows them to grind their food up into extremely small pieces and wear their teeth down, both of which are necessary for their long-term health. Image Credit: Leena Robinson, Shutterstock Conclusion While a rabbit’s teeth might look and function similarly to ours in many ways, their unique features help ensure they can have a happy and healthy life whether they’re in the wild or in your home. Now that you know a bit more about them, you can care for them a bit better if you have a pet rabbit and appreciate them a bit more if you’re always seeing them chomping on something in your garden! Sources https://www.everypaw.com/all-things-pet/everything-you-need-to-know-about-rabbit-teeth https://overlandparkfamilydental.com/blog/facts-about-bunny-teeth https://newrabbitowner.com/rabbit-teeth/ https://todaysveterinarynurse.com/dentistry/rabbit-dentistry/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6955932/ https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/what-should-i-feed-my-rabbits/ https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/gastrointestinal-stasis-in-rabbits https://www.vettimes.co.uk/app/uploads/wp-post-to-pdf-enhanced-cache/1/rabbit-nutrition-how-to-prevent-problems-through-correct-feeding.pdf https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/gastrointestinal-stasis-in-rabbits https://todaysveterinarynurse.com/dentistry/rabbit-dentistry/ Featured Image Credit: Roselynne, Shutterstock The post 10 Surprising Vet-Verified Facts About Rabbit Teeth appeared first on PangoVet.

Losing a pet is something all pet owners will eventually have to go through, and it’s always a heartbreaking time for everyone. Losing a pet before their time while they’re young and healthy is even more shocking, especially if it is a surprise. Baby rabbits are cute and fluffy, but they’re also fragile creatures susceptible to many dangers and things that could cause them to die suddenly. This article looks at why baby rabbits die suddenly and how you can help protect them against sudden death. The 13 Reasons Why Baby Rabbits Die Suddenly 1. Physical Trauma Rabbits are very fragile at any age, but newborns (neonatal) and young rabbits are particularly delicate. Many baby rabbits can die from external or internal injuries caused by falls, having things fall on them, being held too roughly, and even being hurt by their mothers. Does (female rabbit mothers) that are younger, inexperienced, and have only had one pregnancy all have a higher risk of accidentally hurting their babies. Something as simple as a mom thumping her feet in annoyance can crush baby rabbits, and careless movement in the nest can cause internal injuries to even slightly older baby rabbits. Image Credit: Raman Saurei, Shutterstock 2. Cannibalism Another unfortunate turn of events for a mother rabbit and her babies is cannibalism. Does can eat their own babies when they are stressed; this stress can be from a large event such as a party or unfamiliar people going into her nest box, but it can also be from something as simple as a predator (like a dog) or other animals meandering past her cage, especially soon after she has given birth. An insufficient diet can also cause mother rabbits to cannibalize their young; a diet deficient in calories or nutrients or lacking drinking water can cause her to turn on her own kits. 3. Infection Baby rabbits are susceptible to infections as their immune systems are not yet fully developed, similar to other pets of the same age. Gastrointestinal infections are particularly dangerous to baby rabbits, as a baby rabbit who develops diarrhea will dehydrate incredibly quickly. A condition called mucoid enteropathy is a common cause of baby rabbit deaths, and it shows as a large amount of jelly-like diarrhea that’s full of mucus.1 The causes of mucoid enteropathy are thought to be bacterial, imbalance in the cecum or environmental, but they aren’t entirely known. Baby rabbits are also susceptible to colibacillosis, a disease caused by an infection of E.coli bacteria. In non-weaned rabbits (1 to 2 weeks old), it causes yellow diarrhea. In weaned rabbits over 4 weeks old, it causes green-brown diarrhea and fluid-filled intestines. This infection can kill rabbits that appear healthy within 48 hours. Baby rabbits can also be prone to viral infections and parasitic infestations, particularly coccidiosis and protozoan cryptosporidiosis.2 4. Congenital Diseases Congenital diseases can also be the cause of sudden death in baby rabbits. Congenital diseases are diseases and malformations inherited through genes from the parent rabbits to the baby, and the most common of these is malocclusion of the incisors seen in dwarf rabbits. This is not immediately obvious in very young kits but will lead to dental issues as they grow up. Congenital heart defects, such as ventricular septal defects, can cause sudden death in baby rabbits, and rabbits are very good at hiding signs of illness and pain.3 Image Credit: QBR, Shutterstock 5. Hypothermia Baby rabbits are tiny and are at risk from hypothermia if their environment isn’t managed correctly, or if they are ill. It is a significant risk for young rabbits kept outside, as the temperatures are often much less regulated than they are for inside rabbits. Baby rabbits are hypothermic if their temperature drops below 100.4°F, which is the lowest end of the normal range of temperatures. Hairless, non-weaned rabbits are the most at risk of hypothermia, as they have no hair to help keep them warm. However, even adult rabbits can succumb to being too cold if they’re kept outside in freezing temperatures, or they are sick, so keep an eye on the temperature so you can keep your baby rabbit warm. Signs of hypothermia include: Lethargy Cold ears and feet Pale gums Rapid, shallow breathing Coma Death 6. Dehydration Dehydration is a big killer of baby rabbits, not yet weaned from their mothers, and of older babies that don’t have access to water in their environment. Dehydration can occur very quickly in rabbits, particularly baby rabbits with diarrhea. The signs of dehydration in unweaned rabbits include being restless and taking on a ‘wrinkled’ appearance, as their skin is less elastic due to dehydration. Signs of dehydration in older baby rabbits are similar to those in adults and include: Signs of dehydration include: Thickened saliva Dry sticky gums Sunken eyes Reduced appetite Small, very hard poops Reduced peeing Lethargy Collapse Common causes of dehydration in baby rabbits are inability to suckle sufficiently from the mother, illness such as diarrhea, accidental blockage of the water source, or stress leading to them not drinking. In cases of diarrhea, dehydration can occur overnight, and baby rabbits can die by morning. 7. Bloat Bloat, or gastric dilation, is the slow but progressive and very painful bloating and expansion of the stomach. In rabbits, this is usually caused by something obstructing the normal passage of gas and food through the gastrointestinal system, or by a severely reduced motility of the intestines due to gut stasis. Bloat is an extremely dangerous condition that can quickly become fatal; most often, a baby rabbit will die from bloat due to the pressure the enlarged stomach places on the body’s systems. The stomach presses on blood vessels and nerves and cuts off the blood supply. While this condition doesn’t occur rapidly, rabbits are so stoic and good at hiding the pain that owners may not notice anything is wrong until the rabbit collapses and their bloated abdomen can be seen. Image Credit: Roselynne, Shutterstock 8. Stress Stress is a significant factor in baby rabbit mortality and can affect almost all of a rabbit’s bodily systems.4 Stressful situations cause a rabbit’s body to release substances into their bloodstream, such as cortisol, which has a knock-on effect on the rest of the rabbit. Baby rabbits can die from a heart attack if stressed! Stress can cause baby rabbits to stop eating and urinating (which can cause damage to their kidneys), and can reduce the motility of their intestines, leading to life-threatening gut stasis. All of this can culminate in a rabbit suddenly passing away from any problems that stress can directly cause. 9. Poisoning There are many plants and hazardous items around the homes that can poison your baby rabbit, which is why rabbit-proofing any space they spend time in is so important. In addition, some poisons commonly found in the home can cause severe illness in rabbits and even kill them if not treated immediately. Ingestion of the following common household and garden poisons could be the reason your baby rabbit suddenly passed away: Common Poisons: Ivy: Often used as a decorative plant, ivy is very toxic to rabbits. The plant, including the leaves, stems, and berries, is poisonous if eaten. Signs of ivy toxicity include diarrhea, anorexia, and lethargy. Severe cases of ivy poisoning are often fatal and can cause seizures, paralysis, and collapse. Rat Poison: Not all rodenticides have anticoagulant (blood thinning) properties, but many do. The pellets are often very attractive to rabbits by design, and fatal internal bleeding can occur if treatment isn’t initiated immediately. Glyphosate herbicide: Rabbits that accidentally ingest herbicides can suffer various signs, such as lethargy, breathing difficulties, abdominal pain, and death. 10. Gut Stasis Gut stasis is a potentially fatal condition for all rabbits, including baby rabbits. Gut stasis is the slowing down or halt of movement inside the gastrointestinal system (ileus). Baby rabbits can experience gut stasis for various reasons, including stress and a diet rich in sugars or deficient in fiber, or as a consequence of pain and other illness. Gut stasis is painful, and rabbits will often stop eating and passing feces when it occurs. This can cause imbalance in the gastrointestinal system, dehydration, and a build-up of toxin and gas-producing bacteria. Because rabbits are excellent at hiding illness, this fatal condition is often not picked up until the rabbit is almost deceased. Image credit: Eloine Chapman, Shutterstock 11. Pneumonia Baby rabbits not yet weaned and are hand-reared are very susceptible to aspiration pneumonia, which is a lung inflammation, and secondary infection caused by irritation from inhaling milk or food into the lungs. Hand-reared rabbit kits can easily inhale milk. Signs of this kind of pneumonia include gasping, a blue tinge to the skin or tongue, milk bubbles in the nose, and milk or fluid coming from the nostrils. Older baby rabbits (and adults) can also suffer from pneumonia, often due to bacterial, viral, parasitic, or fungal infection or illness. All types of pneumonia are hazardous and quickly become fatal. They are often contagious to the other rabbits, as well. 12. They Are a “Peanut” A “Peanut” is an anecdotal, rather than a scientific, term given to baby rabbits who inherit two “dwarf” genes, which are recessive. Dwarf rabbits that are healthy receive one of these dwarf genes from one parent and express the small features and stature. If a baby rabbit receives two of these genes (one from each parent), they’re known as homozygous dwarfs and will usually die within a few days of birth. These babies are impossibly small and suffer other physical problems. Sadly, they’re not able to survive. 13. Hyperthermia Overheating is a real danger for baby rabbits, as much as hypothermia. If your baby rabbit is kept in a warm, humid, poorly ventilated cage or hutch, they can very easily develop hyperthermia. Heat stroke can kill very quickly and is a major cause of rabbit deaths in those kept outside in hot weather. Signs that your rabbit is overheating: Drooling Panting or shallow breathing Weakness and lethargy Red, warm ears (rabbits lose heat through their ears) Collapse Seizures Image Credit: Kassia Marie Ott, Shutterstock How Can I Find Out How My Baby Rabbit Died? While it is always distressing to find your rabbit dead, it can be challenging to determine the cause. The only way to determine how your baby rabbit died is by asking your veterinarian to perform an autopsy. It can sometimes reveal telling signs that your rabbit suffered from a particular problem, such as a respiratory disease or gut stasis, but autopsies cannot always determine the cause of death. How Can I Protect My Baby Rabbit From Sudden Death? Good husbandry, environmental management, and understanding of rabbits are the key to keeping them well and happy. Unfortunately, raising baby rabbits without a doe is very difficult; and mortality of kits may be high. However, keeping your older baby rabbit at the correct temperature, ensuring they have a diet high in fiber, with hay making up 85% of their daily food intake and vegetables no more than 10%, and keeping them as stress-free as possible can all help to protect them from sudden death. Vaccinations and health checks are also vital, as many diseases and bacterial infections can be avoided by providing good and preventative healthcare. Most importantly, keeping your baby rabbits calm and happy is the most important thing you can do to protect them from sudden death. Stress has a profound effect on their bodies which can cause many of the issues we’ve mentioned above. Common causes of stress in baby rabbits include: Pain Handling Transporting Unfamiliar surroundings (common in recently rehomed rabbits) Change of Food Poor husbandry Being near potential predators, e.g., cats, dogs Noise Conclusion When we look after our pets, we hope they’ll live long and happy lives with us. That is usually the case, but sometimes our pets leave us too soon, and baby rabbits are unfortunately very delicate and can easily die. Even handling a baby rabbit the wrong way can cause a heart attack, which is why it’s crucial to understand them and keep them relaxed and happy in our care. It can be challenging to read about the loss of pets, but we hope this article has informed you of possible reasons why baby rabbits die and what you can do to prevent it. If you are planning on hand-rearing a baby rabbit, speak to your vet about the best way to do this. Sources https://www.msdvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits/bacterial-and-mycotic-diseases-of-rabbits#v3306520 https://www.msdvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits/bacterial-and-mycotic-diseases-of-rabbits#:~:text=Mucoid%20Enteropathy%20in%20Rabbits&text=Clinical%20signs%20are%20gelatinous%20or,covered%20with%20mucus%20and%20feces. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/rabbits-problems http://extension.msstate.edu/content/rabbit-cannibalism https://www.nelsonroadvet.com/articles/exotics/rabbits/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26763583/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7258705/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26763583/ https://www.vetlexicon.com/treat/lapis/freeform/dental-malocclusion-overgrowth https://www.cliniciansbrief.com/article/rabbits-rectal-temperature https://www.medivet.co.uk/pet-care/pet-advice/cold-weather-care-for-rabbits/ https://www.medivet.co.uk/pet-care/pet-advice/hydration/ https://vethelpdirect.com/pet-health-library/management-rabbit-stress/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5566914/ https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rabbits/health/poisoning/common https://www.petmd.com/rabbit/emergency/poisoning-toxicity/e_rb_rat_poisoning https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/gastrointestinal-stasis-in-rabbits https://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/respiratory/c_rb_pneumonia https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5289862/ https://www.medivet.co.uk/pet-care/pet-advice/heatstroke-in-rabbits/  https://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_gastric_dilation Featured Image Credit: auenleben, Pixabay The post Why Do Baby Rabbits Die Suddenly? 13 Vet-Verified Reasons appeared first on PangoVet.

Click to Skip Ahead Purpose and Function of a Cat’s Clitoris How to Determine the Sex of Your Cat Other Ways to Determine Gender Importance of Knowing the Sex of Your Cat Determining the sex of a cat isn’t as easy as it is with dogs. How many stories have you heard in which a cat named “Jack” turns out to be a “Jill?” This is an incredibly common situation, and it shows how foreign the feline genitalia is to most humans. However, when it comes to the basics, cats have the same basic anatomy as humans; male cats are born with testes and a penis, and female cats are born with a clitoris and vagina. So, why is it such a challenge to determine a cat’s sex? In this article, we will discuss how you can figure out your cat’s sex, as well as why the information is important, beyond choosing the perfect name for your pet. The Purpose and Function of a Cat’s Clitoris All mammalian embryos essentially start out life as female (which is why males have nipples!). Shortly into development, their genetics determine whether their gonads will become ovaries or testes, and if they will have a penis or clitoris. That’s right, the clitoris is the female equivalent of the penis. In female humans, ovulation occurs on a regular cycle. As for female cats, they only ovulate when they mate with a male. This is known as induced ovulation, in which the physical act of copulation causes the ovaries to release eggs. Since female cats reproduce through induced ovulation, there must be a biological “tripwire” of sorts to tell the ovaries when to release eggs, and this “tripwire” is widely believed to be the clitoris. The feline penis is covered in tiny barbs that result in even more friction and stimulation during copulation. In humans, the clitoris is located a distance away from the vagina. For female cats, the clitoris is located inside the vestibule, making it ideally positioned for stimulation during mating. As clitoral stimulation is a natural occurrence during feline breeding, it is believed that the clitoris acts as a trigger, prompting the release of hormones that will set off ovulation. Therefore, the clitoris plays a key role in feline reproduction and breeding. Image Credit: You are welcome to use our infographic but we do require you to link back to Catster.com How to Determine the Sex of Your Cat While determining your cat’s sex can be difficult, it’s not impossible. The easiest way to discover the sex of your cat is to take them to the vet for an official examination. Otherwise, there are different methods you can use depending on your cat’s age. Unlike with dogs, the feline penis is not located on the abdomen. Instead, it is hidden from view, tucked underneath the anus. Apart from when they are having a thorough clean, you will generally not catch sight of your cat’s penis. Under 8 Weeks of Age If your kitten is less than 8 weeks old, determining their sex will be a bit more of a challenge. Like the rest of your kitten’s body, their external genitalia is tiny and difficult to see. To make sexing your kitten easier, it is ideal if you can compare them to their littermates. This will allow you to see examples of male and female kittens so that you can more easily differentiate between the two. If your kitten is no longer with their littermates, you can attempt to determine their sex the same way you would for a kitten over eight weeks of age. Over 8 Weeks of Age For cats over 8 weeks old, determining their sex is much more straightforward. Simply lift their tail and check the shape of the genital opening as well as the distance between the opening and the anus. In males, the genital opening will be circular and farther away from the anus. In females, the genital opening will be linear and closer to the anus. As most cat owners know, randomly grabbing your cat’s tail and lifting it is unlikely to yield good results. Instead, approach the situation carefully so that your cat feels comfortable. First, find a time when your cat is calm and gently hold them in your lap. Once they are relaxed, you can gently lift their tail to inspect them. It is important to note that you will likely not be able to see your cat’s penis, so determining your cat’s sex based on that structure alone is not advised. The same goes for the testes, which may have already been removed if your cat has been sterilized. Therefore, a lack of visible male sex structures does not necessarily mean your cat is female. Image Credit: You are welcome to use our infographic but we do require you to link back to Catster.com Are There Other Ways to Determine the Sex of Your Cat? The only way to guarantee the sex of your cat is to examine their genitals. If you are struggling to do so, your vet can determine your cat’s sex for you. In the meantime, there may be some other ways to get an idea of the sex of your cat. Unique to felines, the gene for the orange coat color is sex-linked, found only on the X-chromosome. Males with this gene will be either black or orange (ginger), with or without some white. Females, however, can be black, ginger, or a blend (calico or tortoiseshell). This means that virtually all calico or tortoiseshell cats are female, and around 80% of ginger cats are male. However, this method is not a guarantee. While incredibly rare, male calico cats exist. Due to genetic mutations that cause cats to have more than two sex chromosomes, male cats can develop calico colors. These cats are known as Klinefelter cats. Image Credit: You are welcome to use our infographic but we do require you to link back to Catster.com Why Is It Important to Know the Sex of Your Cat? Many people may think that knowing your cat’s sex is only important for naming purposes, but that’s not the case. There are several reasons that pet owners should know their pet’s sex. Some health issues or behavioral problems are more prevalent in one sex over another. For instance, males are at higher risk of fatal urinary tract blockages than females. Knowing which conditions your cat may be susceptible to based on their sex can allow you to catch the signs of a condition earlier and potentially save your cat a lot of discomfort and pain. If you have a brother and sister, or just a male and female kitten, you will want to know this so you can make plans for neutering before ending up with unwanted kittens, especially  from siblings! In addition, sexual development disorders can be an issue, such as gonadal disorders. Gonadal disorders impact your cat’s reproductive organs, but the signs may appear different based on your cat’s sex. For example, in females, common signs of a sexual development disorder include an abnormally large clitoris. Therefore, knowing your cat’s sex tells you not just if they are a “Jack” or a “Jill,” but it also helps you to remain informed on their health status. Image Credit: Ermolaev Alexander, Shutterstock Final Thoughts The female cat does indeed have a clitoris, and it likely plays a vital role in feline reproduction. As induced ovulators, it is important for copulation to stimulate a hormonal response in order for eggs to be released from the ovaries. The location of the clitoris, along with the anatomy of the penis, ensures this stimulation occurs. While female cats have clitorises, this won’t help you to determine a cat’s sex. Instead, focus on the shape of the genital opening as well as its distance from the anus. If you are confused, consulting your vet is the best way to go. Sources https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/article/evolution-female-orgasm-ovulation-rabbits/ https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/evr_ct_how_to_determine_the_sex_of_a_kitten https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/reproductive/c_ct_sexual_development_disorders https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/reproductive/c_ct_vaginal_abnormalities https://www.vetstreet.com/dr-marty-becker/can-calico-cats-be-male Featured Image Credit: Hanna Taniukevich, Shutterstock The post Do Cats Have a Clitoris? Vet-Reviewed Facts About Cat Genitals (With Infographics) appeared first on PangoVet.

PetKeen is excited to share the news of its integration with the innovative PangoVet website! This partnership is not just about expanding the pet health information library of PetKeen, but also about bringing you a one-stop solution for all your pet health needs. With a vast collection of health, medication, food, and exercise articles, Pet Keen has been a trusted resource for pet owners. Now, with the introduction of telehealth services, PangoVet is elevating its commitment to pet health, making it more convenient and accessible for you. What Is PangoVet? PangoVet is a newly developed veterinary telehealth site where people can communicate with one of our highly experienced veterinarians about any health or behavioral issues concerning their cat or dog. Our vet team is not meant to replace face-to-face consultations that people have with their local animal doctor and technician. It is meant to allow you to speak with one of PangoVet’s trusted veterinarians from the comfort of your home when convenient. Both video and audio calls are available. Click to Speak With a Vet How Pango Vet Works Pango Vet is designed to work simply. Here is how you can get things done: Click the “Book Now” button at the top of the page (you can also scroll to the bottom of the home page and click the “Talk to a Vet” button) Fill out the short questionnaire about your pet Select a date and time you want your call Pay the consultation fee After the call, you will receive a report summary and what was discussed during your consultation. Our vets cannot prescribe medication with this service. The Goal of PangoVet PangoVet’s goal is clear and unwavering: to help pets live longer and happier lives. As much as our team wants to help, if this is an emergency scenario (seizures, irregular breathing, lack of consciousness, severe bleeding, etc.), please visit your vet’s clinic or an emergency animal hospital. The post PetKeen Is Now a Part of PangoVet appeared first on PangoVet.

A Florida man suffered a demoralizing comeuppance when he attempted to carjack the wrong person, according to police. A car thief reportedly attempted to steal a vehicle that was parked outside a residence early Thursday morning. The owner heard a commotion outside his home and called 911 after seeing a man attempting to break into his car. The suspect – identified by police as 29-year-old Blake Robinson – was confronted by the 66-year-old owner of the vehicle before law enforcement arrived at the crime scene. Authorities said the pair got into a physical altercation and Robinson knocked the owner to the ground and then kicked him in the head. However, Robert Polk fought back and was able to incapacitate Robinson until police arrived. The Brevard County Sheriff's Office said in a post on Facebook, "Welcome to Brevard County, where we proudly support… 'Play stupid games…win stupid prizes.'"Brevard County Sheriff's Office deputies arrived at the crime scene and arrested Robinson, who allegedly had blood around his mouth and "was seemingly having a tough time getting up off of the ground, after getting his butt whipped by a 66-year-old man!"The sheriff's office wrote, "That’s right Mr. Tough Guy, Robinson, got manhandled by a 66-year-old man who thankfully only required brief medical treatment and was left without any serious injuries!"Deputies noted Polk's face was red and swollen, and one of his ears was covered in blood.Robinson needed to get medical attention after being beaten up by the owner, according to police. The Brevard County Sheriff's Office wrote, "As for Robinson, he was fortunate enough to be in Brevard County where he won a few prizes for being stupid including a chauffeured ride to a local medical facility to check his injuries before arriving at his less than luxurious accommodations at 'Ivey's Iron Bar Lodge! At the lodge he was given a freshly washed 2 piece ensemble to get comfortable in, before being shown to his sleeping area in our open floor plan."Robinson was charged with burglary of an unoccupied conveyance and felony battery on a person over the age of 65. He was booked in the Brevard County Jail on a $30,000 bond.Sheriff Wayne Ivey said the suspect "got an enhanced charge for hitting someone over the age of 65 who ended up whooping his punk butt!" Ivey added, "As we like to say here in Brevard County, 'Mess Around and Find Out!'"Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

@NRCC: 'Gas Prices Are UP 55.3% Under Biden'

Snarky Biden Fundraising Email Takes on Obama Bros turned Podcasters and It's Brutal

Biden Press Secretary Goes Full 'Baghdad Bob' Proclaiming Biden More Vigorous than Young Staffers