'Your tired‚ your poor'

What an adorable little sword‚ huh?

Our Top 10 Wendy &; Lisa Songs list looks at the music of two brilliant musicians and songwriters who got their start as members of the band Prince &; The Revolution. Both Wendy &; Lisa played a significant role in probably the most commercially successful period of Prince’s career. The two artists were featured heavily in the motion picture Purple Rain. Both Wendy Melvin and Lisa Coleman would continue to work together after Prince broke up The Revolution and hired new musicians for his future projects. Wendy Melvin and Lisa Coleman would continue with their stage name‚ Wendy &; Lisa‚ The post Top 10 Wendy &; Lisa Songs appeared first on ClassicRockHistory.com.

The post Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Cats: Causes‚ Signs‚ &; Treatments by Dr. Emma Chandley‚ BVetMed MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in cats is a specific group of disorders affecting the connective tissue. They are typically characterized by loose and stretchy skin that is very fragile. The disorder is caused by a genetic defect which means the cat doesn’t produce collagen correctly. The collagen fibers have an abnormal structure which means the skin is friable and fragile and prone to damage. The skin is weaker‚ and its structural properties are reduced. The collagen deficiency also affects other tissues in the body‚ including the heart‚ blood vessels‚ and eyes. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is diagnosed by measuring the stretch of the skin. Unfortunately‚ cats that are severely affected generally do not survive. Some cats with milder cases can live for longer although they are at high risk of skin injuries and constant management of wounds is required. What Is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome? Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (also called Feline cutaneous asthenia) is a specific group of disorders affecting the connective tissue. It is characterized by a deficiency in collagen and an abnormality in the structure of the collagen. Collagen is responsible for giving strength and elasticity to the ligaments and the skin as well as other important parts in the body. Collagen provides structural support to the extracellular space of the connective tissues. It is rigid and also resists stretching so it forms an ideal matrix for ligaments‚ tendons‚ bones‚ and skin. Normal collagen allows for some stretching of the tissue‚ but it also resists overstretching and allows for the tissue to return to its original shape. In Ehlers-Danlos syndrome‚ one of the collagen-producing enzymes called Procollagen-peptidase‚ has a genetic defect so it produces collagen with an abnormal structure. This is what causes weakened skin and makes it loose‚ stretchy‚ and easily damaged. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is one of a number of hereditary disorders that have the classic clinical signs of droopy‚ stretchy skin. The genetic mutation that causes it gets passed down from parent cat to kitten. Interestingly the condition can’t be identified by skin or other tissue samples. Diagnosis is made by observation of the stretch present in the skin. Image Credit: Maria Sbytova‚ Shutterstock What Are the Signs of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Cats? Signs of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome are usually seen from 8 weeks old. The first signs owners notice are skin wounds that appear through normal rough and tumble between litter mates. Wounds heal quickly but then leave substantial scars. Typical signs include: Sagging skin Presence of redundant folds of skin Delicate skin prone to damage Loss of elasticity of the skin Wide wounds Swelling around elbows Laxity of the joints Bruises/hematoma under the skin As well as signs relating to the skin‚ there can be clinical signs due to the lack of collagen internally as well. Sometimes internal bleeding can occur resulting from ruptured internal structures. Cats can also be more prone to infections due to open skin wounds. This condition is more commonly seen in Himalayans‚ Domestic Shorthairs‚ and Domestic Longhairs. What Are the Causes of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome? The cause of this condition is a genetic mutation. It can be passed from parent to kitten. The disease can be passed from both parents and be dominant‚ or just one parent and be recessive. In the dominant form‚ usually‚ both parents are carriers‚ so they don’t show any clinical signs themselves‚ but they pass on the genes. In the recessive form‚ one of the parents can be a carrier with no clinical signs present. If an affected animal has been identified‚ it is recommended that the parents of the individual and also the siblings are not bred. Diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Cats It can be difficult to diagnose the disease in cats. Your vet will first carry out a thorough examination of your cat. Your vet will assess the condition of the skin and how stretchy and friable the skin is. They will assess the joints and general condition of the cat and check if they are painful in any areas. The skin is stretched as far as it will go with the cat still being comfortable‚ and the skin is then measured. They use this figure to calculate the Skin Extensibility Index. This is the amount the skin has stretched by‚ divided by the length of the cat from their skull to their tail base. This number that is calculated allows your vet to assess the severity of the condition. How Do I Care for a PET with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome? Sadly‚ there is no cure for this condition‚ and it also carries a poor prognosis. Cats generally have a very poor quality of life‚ and they can be in a considerable amount of pain. They often have many wounds that need suturing and require treatment such as antibiotics if they become infected. It is important to have your cat neutered‚ firstly so that they don’t pass the disease onto their offspring‚ and also so that they do not get any injuries from mating. Housing cats with the condition along with other cats or young children increases the risks of injuries to the fragile skin. The cat’s environment needs to be adapted to reduce the risk of injuries on sharp edges or rough surfaces. The cat’s bedding needs to be chosen carefully to ensure it is padded enough so as to not cause trauma when the cat sleeps on it. It can be very difficult to handle your cat and any sort of restraint required‚ at the vet‚ for example‚ can prove to be very challenging. Close attention must be paid to any skin conditions that may develop that would cause your cat to scratch excessively such as dermatitis or flea infestation. Management can become challenging‚ and many owners opt for euthanasia as this is often the kindest option. Image Credit: larisa Stefanjuk‚ Shutterstock Frequently Asked Questions Can you tell if a cat is likely to have the syndrome? There is no genetic test available to determine if your cat has this disorder. This makes identifying which cats are affected and which aren’t very difficult. As well as this‚ the severity of the condition can vary greatly. Some cats may only have very mild clinical signs so it will be harder to spot‚ but they will still pass on the genetic defect. What is the prognosis for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome? Cats that are affected with the syndrome generally have a poor prognosis. It is a debilitating disease‚ and their quality of life is severely affected. Collagen plays an important role in lots of different areas in the body and the lack of it causes multiple issues. What can you do to help a cat with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome? Despite the fact this is a debilitating condition‚ there are a few things you can do around the home to make your cat more comfortable and less likely to injure themselves. Get your cat neutered as they should not be bred from‚ but also because they may become injured when mating. Other cats and small children should be kept away from the affected cat. This is to attempt to minimize the risk of injuries to the skin from playing and petting. Ensure there is nothing in your home that your cat can injure themselves on such as sharp pointed objects or rough surfaces. Keep your cat indoors as they are much more likely to injure themselves outside. Ensure they are up to date with parasite treatment to prevent things like flea infestations. Conclusion Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a rare condition affecting cats. It varies in severity and can be extremely debilitating. It is characterized by droopy‚ stretchy loose skin that is fragile and easily injured. There is no cure for this disease. Changes can be made in the home environment to make injury less likely but there are no treatment options. Many owners opt for euthanasia as the quality of life is compromised and the cat suffers greatly with this condition. Sources https://www.msdvetmanual.com/integumentary-system/congenital-and-inherited-anomalies-of-the-integumentary-system/defects-of-structural-integrity-in-animals https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26486982/#:~:text=An%20increased%20skin%20extensibility%20index‚Australia%2C%20New%20Zealand%20and%20Europe. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35627182/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25359116/   Featured Image Credit: Andy Gin‚ Shutterstock The post Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Cats: Causes‚ Signs‚ &; Treatments by Dr. Emma Chandley‚ BVetMed MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

The post Hyperthyroidism in Cats: Our Vet Explains the Causes‚ Signs &; Treatments by Dr. Emma Chandley‚ BVetMed MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Hyperthyroidism is a very common condition seen in cats‚ and in this condition‚ the thyroid becomes overactive. One or both of the thyroid glands can be affected. A benign swelling of the thyroid tissue is the most common cause‚ but malignant tumors do occur too. Clinical signs of hyperthyroidism in cats include weight loss‚ increased appetite‚ changes in coat quality‚ and behavioral changes to mention a few. There are many effective management and treatment options for hyperthyroidism in cats. It is a progressive disorder and if left untreated it can cause serious health issues. Diagnosis and control of the condition can be very challenging and relies heavily on good owner compliance. What Is Hyperthyroidism in Cats? The thyroid gland controls your cat’s metabolism‚ and it affects every cell in your cat’s body. Thyroid hormones influence all of the organs in your cat’s body‚ so often there are secondary problems witnessed with the disease due to organ malfunction as the disease progresses. Cats have two thyroid glands situated in the neck area. The glands are responsible for the production of two thyroid hormones called T3 and T4. The active state of hyperthyroidism occurs when one or both of the glands are overactive. The most common cause of hyperthyroidism in cats is a benign growth called an adenoma. On rare occasions‚ hyperthyroid disease can be caused by a malignant tumor such as a thyroid adenocarcinoma. Cats affected by hyperthyroidism function with a much higher metabolism than cats that have normal thyroid glands. When the thyroid gland is overactive for a long period of time‚ in the long term‚ this takes its toll on your cat’s body. If the thyroid gland is persistently overactive‚ this causes poor coat condition‚ high blood pressure‚ increased heart rate‚ and weight loss. At first‚ clinical signs of hyperthyroidism can be difficult to spot‚ but gradually‚ due to the nature of the disease‚ they get worse and more obvious. Image Credit: Irina Vasilevskaia‚ Shutterstock What Are the Signs of Hyperthyroidism in Cats? Clinical signs of hyperthyroidism in cats vary depending on the stage of the disease and how long the glands have been overactive. Early signs of hyperthyroidism include: Increase in appetite Weight loss Increase in vocalization Palpable mass in the neck Behavioral changes (more anxious/fractious/aggressive) A sudden increase in energy Increased thirst Increased urination Gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting and diarrhea Loss of coat condition Reduction in grooming activities Alopecia Lethargy Faster heartbeat Sleep disturbances Clinical signs once the disease has become well established vary slightly. The clinical signs mentioned above will progress and become more profound. As the disease affects more organs‚ conditions such as high blood pressure‚ heart disease‚ kidney disease‚ liver disease‚ respiratory issues‚ skin disorders‚ and blindness can become apparent. Clinical signs noted by owners as the disease progresses include: Seizures Incoordination Muscle tremors Muscle weakness and wastage Dilated pupils Blindness Heart arrhythmias and murmurs Diagnosis of Hyperthyroidism in Cats Diagnosis of hyperthyroidism in cats is usually straightforward. Your vet will start by performing a full physical exam and taking a detailed clinical history from you. Once your vet has a list of differential diagnoses‚ they will decide on which tests to carry out. Routine blood tests will be run to assess blood cell counts and organ function. They will also carry out a urinalysis and may request some specific blood tests to assess the level of the thyroid hormone T4 in the blood. Normally‚ this hormone is increased in cats with hyperthyroidism. If this test comes back as elevated‚ and the clinical signs fit the picture‚ your vet is likely to diagnose hyperthyroidism. There are some anomalies where a cat may be showing clinical signs but the T4 hormone hasn’t increased much or is in the normal range. If this is the case‚ other blood tests can be carried out. Your vet will discuss which tests are most appropriate for your cat. If tests are still not conclusive‚ sometimes an ultrasound scan of the thyroid glands can be carried out. Scintigraphy can be used but is usually only performed at specialist referral centers. Your vet may also suggest repeating the T4 hormone blood tests in 3–4 weeks to assess any changes. What Are the Causes of Hyperthyroidism in Cats? The physical cause of hyperthyroidism in cats is due to the increased functioning of thyroid nodules which in turn results in excessive production of thyroid hormones. The cause of these hyperfunctioning nodules is not clearly understood. It is likely to be a combination of genetic factors and environmental conditions. There are a few theories about what might cause cats to develop hyperthyroidism including thyroid cancer‚ some varieties of canned foods‚ exposure to high levels of dietary iodine‚ and flame-retardant chemicals in furniture. Older cats are more likely to be affected than kittens. Image Credit: Alena Menshikova‚ Shutterstock How Do I Care for a Cat with Hyperthyroidism? There are various options for managing and treatment of hyperthyroidism. These include: Medication Surgery Radioactive iodine Dietary management Each of the options above has pros and cons. Your vet will discuss the options in detail and work out which is the best for you and your cat. Some of the options will not be suitable or feasible so it is important to be honest with what your expectations are. Factors that may sway your decision one way or the other include: Your cat’s general health and the presence of any other diseases such as kidney disease Your cat’s temperament Financial constraints Your ability to give medication to your cat Medication: There are drugs that can be used to manage the condition‚ as opposed to curing it. A drug called methimazole can be given orally. It can be given as a tablet or liquid or transdermal gel. Methimazole works by reducing the amount of circulating thyroid hormone in your cat’s body. The drug suppresses the release of thyroid hormones from the glands. Drug therapy can be used as a short-term option to manage cases prior to surgery‚ or as a long-term management strategy. It can be difficult to determine the correct dose and frequency of dosing so owners need to be aware that they will be required to attend lots of vet visits for monitoring. The medication needs to be given daily‚ and some owners struggle with this commitment. Cats have a good quality of life once the correct dose has been determined. Surgery: The surgical option for the treatment of hyperthyroidism in cats involves the complete removal of the gland. This is called a thyroidectomy. This is a relatively straightforward operation and is done under general anesthetic. The surgery usually cures the condition. Cats must be well enough to be put under general anesthesia‚ and some are not good candidates due to concurrent health issues. There is also a risk of damage to the parathyroid glands during the surgery. Close monitoring in the postoperative period is required to ensure your cat is stable and the parathyroid glands are still working as they should be. Radioactive Iodine: This is a specialist procedure carried out at referral practices that cures the condition in most cats. An injection or pill of a radioactive iodine isotope is given to your cat—iodine is required to make the thyroid hormones. The radioactive iodine is taken via the bloodstream to the thyroid gland. Here the thyroid takes up the radioactive isotope. This releases radiation which actively destroys the abnormal thyroid tissue‚ and all other tissues are unaffected. The radioactive isotope is passed out via your cat’s urine. Your cat will remain hospitalized until the radiation levels have reduced enough for it to be safe for your cat to go home. Diet: A diet low in iodine is supposed to be helpful for cats with hyperthyroidism. There is some confusion on this as reducing iodine in the long term can have a detrimental effect on your cat. More research is required on this subject. It is always best to consult your vet before making any dramatic changes to your cat’s diet. Image Credit: Poto69‚ Shutterstock Frequently Asked Questions Are cats with hyperthyroidism in pain? Hyperthyroidism itself is not a painful condition‚ however‚ some of the clinical signs can cause your cat discomfort and distress. This is especially true if the disease has been left to progress and the vital organs in the body are affected. Can hyperthyroidism be prevented? It is not possible to prevent hyperthyroidism currently. Frequent monitoring and regular visits to your vet can aid in the detection of the disease. Early diagnosis and initiation of treatment can prevent secondary problems from developing and irreversible damage from occurring. All cats over the age of 8 years should ideally be checked over by a vet every 6 months and they should receive an annual blood and urine test to screen for health issues as routine. What is the prognosis for hyperthyroidism in cats? Generally‚ the prognosis following treatment is very good—most cats go on to live a normal life. The outcome of the management options largely depends on owner compliance. Follow-up examinations at the vets must be attended to assess response to treatment regularly. Conclusion Hyperthyroidism is a very common issue seen in the older cat population. Hyperactivity of the thyroid gland is usually caused by a benign growth known as an adenoma. The thyroid gland affects multiple organs so if it is overactive‚ there are often secondary disorders seen when these organs malfunction. There are several effective treatment options for hyperthyroidism‚ some manage the disease and others cure it. If prompt diagnosis and treatment occur‚ the prognosis is good. Sources https://www.msdvetmanual.com/endocrine-system/the-thyroid-gland/hyperthyroidism-in-animals https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/hyperthyroidism-cats#:~:text=Also%20called%20thyrotoxicosis%2C%20hyperthyroidism%20is‚cancerous%20tumor%20called%20an%20adenoma. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23087006/#:~:text=Continuous%2C%20lifelong%20exposure%20to%20environmental‚hyperplasia%2C%20thyroid%20adenoma%20and%20hyperthyroidism. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25685895/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19689668/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7337209/   Featured Image Credit: SofikoS‚ Shutterstock The post Hyperthyroidism in Cats: Our Vet Explains the Causes‚ Signs &; Treatments by Dr. Emma Chandley‚ BVetMed MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

The post National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week 2024: When It Is &; How to Help by Lorre Luther appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week takes place the first week of November‚ so the dates change every year. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) started the event to get the word out about how animal shelters contribute to their communities and improve the lives of animals. HSUS is one of the oldest and most storied animal welfare organizations in the nation; it’s been around since the 1950s and has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of all animals. It currently has initiatives to prohibit animal fighting‚ puppy mills‚ and wildlife abuse. It also works to protect wild horses and marine wildlife. How Do Animal Shelters Benefit Communities? Animal shelters provide refuge for cats and dogs in need‚ and they often play a critical role in helping abused and neglected animals get back on their feet and enjoy happy‚ healthy lives. Shelters are often the first places people turn to when they find lost pets‚ and they are the moving forces behind reuniting lost pets and their humans. Shelters also play a huge role in limiting pet overpopulation by providing free and low-cost spay and neuter surgeries. Many also provide free vaccinations for feral and stray cats. Some provide subsidized veterinary care to ensure that all animals have access to medical care regardless of their companion’s ability to pay. Image Credit: hedgehog94‚ Shutterstock How Is National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week Celebrated? There’s no one right way to celebrate National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week‚ and you have several fun options‚ including engaging with local animal welfare organizations on social media and showing them love through donations of money or time. Engage With Your Favorite Animal Welfare Organization on Social Media Liking or following animal welfare organizations with missions that resonate with your values can be a great way to show support for what they do and the people who work every day to improve the lives of animals. The week is a great time to let the world know if an animal shelter has played a role in bringing love into your world‚ either through introducing you to your companion or giving you a call to let you know that your lost pet is safe‚ sound‚ and waiting for you to come to take them home. Adopt Adopting a pet is a great way to expand your circle of love‚ and there are millions of cats and dogs in shelters just waiting to meet the right person or family. Kittens and puppies bring laughter‚ energy‚ and adventure into people’s lives‚ while older pets are sweet‚ loving companions. Kittens and puppies are a bit more expensive to adopt than older pets‚ and most shelters send animals home already spayed or neutered and microchipped to make it easy for new pet parents to get started. Image Credit: BearFotos‚ Shutterstock Foster Cats and dogs are family members that can live for several years. Giving pets a temporary home helps save lives by taking animals in when things become too crowded at shelters‚ and it also gives pets quiet‚ calm places to get ready for adoption. Fostering also provides people looking for an option other than adoption with all of the great things about hanging out with animals‚ along with a bit of flexibility. Most shelters are happy to accommodate foster parents by covering the costs of essentials such as food‚ toys‚ and medication. Make a Donation Financial donations play a huge role in keeping animal shelters running‚ particularly non-profit organizations. Cash donations are incredibly easy to set up and can often be recurring if you’re interested in providing long-term support to an organization. Some accept donations of old vehicles‚ and many work with companies to match donations made through employee-giving programs. Some shelters have wish lists you can consult if you want to purchase an item the organization needs. Volunteer Animal welfare organizations rely on volunteers to keep their facilities running. In many organizations‚ they’re responsible for important tasks such as administrative work‚ providing adoption support‚ and caring for animals. It’s also sometimes possible to partner with shelters to host fundraisers to raise cash to help support the organization’s missions. Many organizations also offer fun ways to get involved‚ such as participating in events like parades and 5-K runs to raise money for the cause. Image Credit: JW Design‚ Shutterstock Do a Bit of Emergency Preparation Animal shelters regularly provide assistance during natural disasters‚ often stepping in to help pet parents impacted by emergencies care for their companions. Being prepared for a natural disaster or sudden evacuation is a critical part of being a responsible pet parent. Consider spending time learning what to do in case of a fire or evacuation order and getting a disaster kit for your pet so you can keep them safe in case of an emergency. Do Something Nice for Your Companion If you’re lucky enough to live with a cat‚ dog‚ or other companion animal‚ you must be doing something right in life! National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week is all about love and appreciation‚ so it makes sense to give your pet extra love and appreciation for all the joy‚ happiness‚ and companionship they bring into your life. Treats‚ special meals‚ and new toys can help you show your pet how much they mean to you. Checking to make sure your pet’s microchip information is registered and that your contact information is another vital task you can complete on National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. Take a Look Inside a Shelter It can be incredibly humbling to tour your local animal shelter if you’ve never visited one! Many have regular hours during which it’s possible to drop by and visit the facility and the animals. It’s a great way to discover what the organizations do‚ how they operate‚ and the services they provide. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get a look at the inner workings of the organization if you’re interested in exploring volunteer opportunities. Image Credit: Mila Supinskaya Glashchenko‚ Shutterstock Say Thank You If you adopted a pet from a shelter‚ consider reaching out to thank the shelter workers who cared for your buddy and brought the two of you together. Send a note or an email letting them know how much joy they brought into your life by bringing you and your pet together‚ and don’t forget to include a few cute pictures so those who once took care of your companion can see the result of their hard work. Conclusion National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week occurs annually during the first week of November. HSUS created the event to call attention to the critical roles shelters play in the lives of animals and in creating and supporting strong communities. Shelters provide safe places for pets who need help finding forever homes‚ and they give love to the world by introducing animals to their forever families. They also help reunite lost pets and their owners and provide low-cost medical care‚ such as spaying and neutering services that help limit animal overpopulation. Sources https://nationaltoday.com/national-animal-shelter-appreciation-week/ https://www.humanesociety.org/our-mission#:~:text=We%20work%20to%3A‚a%20stronger%20animal%20protection%20movement. https://www.loc.gov/item/lcwaN0000209/ https://www.ddfl.org/veterinary-care/ https://www.ddfl.org/locations/metro-cat-street-team/   Featured Image Credit: Evgeniy Medvedev‚ Shutterstock The post National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week 2024: When It Is &; How to Help by Lorre Luther appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

The post Pandora’s Syndrome in Cats: Causes‚ Signs &; Treatment (Vet Answer) by Dr. Joe Mallat appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Have you ever been stressed for a long time‚ and as a result of this had a bad skin break out or picked up a head cold? In many ways‚ cats aren’t too different to us. Chronic stress leads to many illnesses in people and cats alike. Pandora’s Syndrome refers to a complex and challenging disease in cats‚ presumed to be related to chronic stress. Cats suffering from Pandora’s Syndrome have a long list of potential signs related to many different body systems. The urinary system is the most commonly involved. For this reason‚ Pandora’s Syndrome was previously referred to as “feline lower urinary tract disease” or “feline urological syndrome”‚ and stress or anxiety was believed to be one of the main causes of the urinary issues. However‚ new research suggests that many other organs in cats are affected by chronic stress‚ including the heart‚ the digestive system‚ the respiratory tract‚ and even the skin. This article will explain Pandora’s Syndrome in cats—what’s behind the name‚ why it matters‚ and what can be done to improve their overall well-being. Where Does the Name Originate? In Greek mythology‚ Pandora opened a box that led to many complicated problems. The more we research cats‚ the more it seems that stress potentially plays a role in many of the poorly understood feline health problems. Previously‚ many other names were given to the urinary issues associated with stress. Recently‚ a leading veterinarian in the field named Dr. C.A. Tony Buffington‚ proposed the name Pandora’s Syndrome‚ after years of research revealed that stress or anxiety was potentially affecting much more than just a cat’s bladder. Image Credit: Africa Studio‚ Shutterstock What Is Pandora’s Syndrome in Cats? Pandora’s Syndrome is an “umbrella” term used to describe cats with many diseases‚ potentially all stemming from chronic stress. These cats are in a constant state of “fight or flight”‚ and cannot appropriately control their stress response. This may be the result of maternal stress during pregnancy or early trauma experienced by the kitten; genetics and stressful home environments likely also play a role. As a result of chronic stress‚ these cats develop “co-morbidities”. This term describes the presence of two or more different diseases at the same time. For example‚ the cat may have respiratory illness such as cat flu‚ while also having difficulty urinating due to an inflamed bladder. Or‚ they may have early heart disease and diabetes. Whatever the situation‚ stress is believed to be a key driver for all of the problems. What Are the Signs of Pandora’s Syndrome in Cats? This depends on which body system is involved. The most commonly involved body system is the urogenital or urinary system. Signs include: Straining to urinate Passing small amounts of urine Urinating in abnormal locations Frequenting the litter tray Vocalizing while urinating Behaviorally‚ affected cats are often excessively hiding‚ showing aggression‚ eating indiscriminately‚ and over-grooming. Other body systems can be involved‚ resulting in dental disease‚ heart disease‚ upper respiratory infections‚ diabetes‚ and chin acne. It is worth mentioning that most signs of Pandora’s Syndrome “wax and wane”‚ meaning they are observed‚ then seem to subside‚ then manifest again‚ and this cycle tends to repeat itself. Regardless‚ any of the above signs warrant a trip to your veterinarian. Pandora Syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion‚ so bladder stones‚ urinary crystals‚ and infections need to be ruled out‚ first. Image Credit: New Africa‚ Shutterstock What Are the Causes of Pandora’s Syndrome in Cats? At this stage‚ no single cause has been identified. There are a few theories as to why cats develop Pandora’s Syndrome: Stress in utero. The mother of affected cats may have had illness or stress during pregnancy. Stress in early life. Affected cats may have been abandoned‚ injured‚ or sick in their early days and weeks as a kitten‚ resulting in chronic stress when mature. Genetics. Genetics may play a role‚ though more research is required. Home environment. Multi-cat households lacking routine‚ quiet‚ food bowls‚ litter trays‚ and companionship may predispose a cat to Pandora’s Syndrome. How Do I Care for a Cat with Pandora’s Syndrome? Managing Pandora’s Syndrome often involves a combination of at-home changes to give the cat more control of their space‚ and appropriate medications to lower their stress threshold. Environmental Modification A full discussion of environmental modification is beyond the scope of this article‚ however‚ in short‚ cats should feel safe and comfortable in their home environment. Some rules of thumb are included below: Every cat should have a hiding place Every cat should have adequate social time with its owners No cat should feel overly threatened by other cats or dogs in the house Every cat should be able to eat in peace There should be a food bowl and litter tray for each cat in the house‚ plus one “spare”. For example‚ a household with three cats should have four water bowls and litter trays. Every cat should have stimulation in the form of toys Similar to people‚ cats tend to like routine Medications Many affected cats benefit from anti-anxiety medications. The purpose of these is not to sedate the cat but to “take the edge off” or lower their stress threshold. Many options are available‚ such as gabapentin and alprazolam. These medications are considered off-label‚ meaning they must be discussed with‚ and prescribed by‚ a veterinarian. Image Credit: Dina Photo Stories‚ Shutterstock Frequently Asked Questions How Is Pandora’s Syndrome Diagnosed? There is no definitive test to diagnose Pandora’s Syndrome. A diagnosis may be reached based on a history of the cat’s life‚ an assessment of their home environment‚ consideration of the signs they are showing‚ and the exclusion of other diseases. What Is the Prognosis for Cats with Pandora’s Syndrome? With appropriate home modification and medication‚ most cats have a good prognosis. The bigger concern may be that cats with Pandora’s Syndrome experience a poor quality of life if left untreated. Conclusion Pandora’s Syndrome is a tricky and often frustrating feline disease driven primarily by chronic stress. Stress has many detrimental effects on the body. In cats‚ this most commonly results in urinary issues‚ though heart disease‚ skin disease‚ dental disease‚ and respiratory disease may also be linked to Pandora’s Syndrome. While more research is required‚ there are many steps that can be taken to reduce anxiety and improve affected cats’ quality of life. Sources https://fairhavenvet.com/what-is-pandora-syndrome-in-our-feline-patients/ https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/urology-renal-medicine/pandora-syndrome-in-cats/ https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&;catId=102903&;id=10780044   Featured Image Credit: New Africa‚ Shutterstock The post Pandora’s Syndrome in Cats: Causes‚ Signs &; Treatment (Vet Answer) by Dr. Joe Mallat appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. 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Pocketpair has recently disclosed its Early Access roadmap for Palworld and announced a bunch of upcoming features. In the span of approximately one year‚ we should see most‚ if not all‚ of these features implemented into Palworld‚ so let’s dive into what they are. All upcoming features announced for Palworld Early Access roadmap If you’re excited to continue playing Palworld‚ there are tons of new features coming in the future on the way to its full release. Now that Palworld recently reached five million sales‚ more and more players are fiending for what’s next. Screenshot: Pocketpair PvP/Arena mode PvP combat is on its way‚ which is essentially an Arena mode. Pocketpair hopes to implement PvP servers‚ since it’s now testing this feature internally. While players can currently play Palworld with friends‚ it’s only cooperatively‚ and not through any PvP Arena mode. Crossplay Although you can c...

Palworld incentivizes capturing multiple of each Pal for those sweet EXP gains. If you’re playing optimally‚ you could have up to 10 of every Pal you’ve encountered. While I respect any player who wants an army of Chikipis‚ let me show you what to do with extra Pals in Palworld. Related: Best Character stats to level up in Palworld – Player leveling guide How to use extra Pals in Palworld If you’re tired of your duplicate Pals clogging up your boxes‚ you can do a few things with them. You may have to level up a bit to do everything‚ but here are your options: Sell unwanted Pals to the Trader Image: PC Invasion You can quickly amass a decent amount of cash by selling your unwanted Pals. The Small Settlement‚ west of the Plateau of Beginnings‚ is the easiest place to sell‚ and it even has its own Fast Travel point. Speak to the Pal Merchant to trade your Pals for Gold. The Pal type and level greatly affec...

FIRST ON THE DAILY SIGNAL—Sen. Ted Cruz is raising the alarm about President Joe Biden’s administration partnering with a far-left group demonizing conservatives in its efforts to combat “domestic terrorism.” “The woke and weaponized bureaucracy of the Biden administration is using the Southern Poverty Law Center’s widely debunked database to target conservatives‚” the Texas Republican told The Daily Signal in an exclusive statement. Cruz was responding to The Daily Signal’s exclusive report that SPLC President Margaret Huang bragged in 2021 that the Biden administration had reached out to her organization in its efforts to combat “the domestic terrorism threat.” The Southern Poverty Law Center puts mainstream conservative and Christian groups on a “hate map” along with chapters of the Ku Klux Klan. This bias suggests the Biden administration views conservatives as a threat to domestic tranquility‚ critics say. “The SPLC is a one-trick pony‚ and its song-and-dance of labeling conservatives ‘domestic terrorists’ is tired and fraudulent‚” Cruz added. “It is incredible that the SPLC has the audacity to label conservatives ‘domestic terrorists’ while one of its own lawyers is currently being prosecuted for charges of actual domestic terrorism.” Cruz was referring to the case of Thomas Webb Jurgens‚ an SPLC lawyer who faces domestic terrorism charges for a riot involving Molotov cocktails last March. The SPLC and the National Lawyers Guild claimed Jurgens had been there as a “legal observer‚” but did not address whether he dressed in Antifa-style black bloc clothing‚ nor whether he engaged in any of the violence at the riot. While the SPLC does not‚ strictly speaking‚ label conservatives “domestic terrorists‚” it has redirected the program it used to bankrupt Ku Klux Klan organizations to target mainstream conservative and Christian groups like Alliance Defending Freedom‚ the Center for Immigration Studies‚ Moms for Liberty‚ and the Family Research Council. The SPLC insinuates that these groups pose a domestic terrorism threat similar to the 1920s Klan by putting them on a “hate map” alongside KKK chapters. “Joe Biden’s choice to associate with the SPLC is unacceptable‚ and I hope that every member of the administration associated with this extremist group is held accountable‚” Cruz concluded. SPLC Head Boasts About Advising Biden The Daily Signal exclusively reported that Huang‚ SPLC’s president‚ appears in a video bragging to donors attending a fall 2021 meeting that many agencies in Biden’s administration had approached the center to craft a domestic terrorism strategy. “I think there’s no question that we are unparalleled in our abilities to track and monitor the hate and extremist groups in the country‚ and I can tell you that we’ve had many agencies in the new Biden administration reaching out to solicit our expertise and our knowledge and information to help shape the policies that the new administration is adopting to counter the domestic terrorism threat‚” Huang said‚ according to the video. The Biden administration’s ties to the SPLC make Huang’s claim credible‚ and neither the White House nor any of the agencies involved in the administration’s domestic terrorism strategy denied Huang’s assertion. Biden and his team have hosted SPLC leaders and staff at the White House at least 11 times since Jan. 20‚ 2021‚ when Biden became president. Biden nominated an SPLC attorney‚ Nancy Abudu‚ to a federal judgeship. Last year‚ the FBI’s Richmond‚ Virginia‚ office used the SPLC’s “hate group” list to target “radical-traditional Catholics” in a now-infamous memo. According to the SPLC’s logic‚ critics say‚ the entire Roman Catholic Church arguably should be listed as a “hate group” because the SPLC cited the Catechism of the Catholic Church in branding the Ruth Institute a “hate group.” Earlier this month‚ the White House touted Vice President Kamala Harris’ meeting “with voting rights leaders.” Among the leaders highlighted: Seth Levi‚ the SPLC’s chief strategy officer. SPLC’s Lack of Credibility As I wrote in my book “Making Hate Pay: The Corruption of the Southern Poverty Law Center‚” the SPLC has faced numerous hits to its credibility‚ especially on the issue of domestic terrorism. In 2012‚ a terrorist gunman used the SPLC “hate map” to target the Christian nonprofit the Family Research Council. He planned to shoot everyone in the building‚ but the building manager successfully foiled his plan. Although the SPLC condemned the attack‚ it kept FRC on its map. The SPLC also has a long track record of carrying water for Antifa‚ the violent extremist group involved in the 2020 riots across the country. Critics on both the Right and the Left long have accused the Southern Poverty Law Center of exaggerating hate in order to scare donors into ponying up cash. In 2019‚ amid a racial discimination and sexual harassment scandal‚ a former employee called the SPLC’s “hate” accusations a “highly profitable scam.” In 2018‚ the SPLC paid $3.4 million to settle a defamation lawsuit after it branded a Muslim reformer an “anti-Muslim extremist.” The SPLC currently faces another defamation lawsuit for branding an immigration reform organization an “anti-immigrant hate group.” Have an opinion about this article? To sound off‚ please email letters@DailySignal.com‚ and we’ll consider publishing your edited remarks in our regular “We Hear You” feature. Remember to include the URL or headline of the article plus your name and town and/or state.  The post ‘UNACCEPTABLE’: Ted Cruz Slams Biden’s Association With Far-Left Group Demonizing Conservatives appeared first on The Daily Signal.