PET TALK NEWSLETTER

Volume 6

Pet Tips -------------------------------------Your Submissions

Hygiene Habits For Your Pet

Dogs and cats will shed their summer coats in the fall before putting on their winter coat. In my house where we have a long haired cat and dog this shedding is quite noticeable but other homes where pets have shorter hair it may be less noticeable. Special attention should be paid to brushings so that you and your pet will be happier.

Nail Trimming: Nail trimming is a must for all of your pets, it is especially necessary for your cat because of their tendency for scratching. Cutting your pets nails can be tricky. Try and calm pet. Get a firm hold so that your pet doesn't move and get cut. Take a paw and press under the pad so that the nail comes out. Cut nail until you see the vein (pink in cats, and dark in dogs). Do not cut further on nail will bleed. Keep styptic powder on hand to stop bleeding. Nails can be filed if you pet won't allow clipping.

Brushing: Long-haired and double-coated dogs and cats should be brushed daily. Shorter haired pets can go every two days. Brushing regularly removes the dead undercoat and prevents matting and knots. You brush in the direction of hair growth, beginning at the head, and work towards the tail and down the legs. All pets should be brushed before bathing to remove mats and tangles which hamper the bathing process.

Bathing: Bathe your pet as necessary with shampoos formulated for dogs or cats only. Frequency depends on the breed of your dog and whether you are using a general shampoo, a medicated shampoo for skin conditions or a flea shampoo or rinse. Cats need only to be bathed when fur becomes excessively oily or by accident your cat has gotten excessively dirty. Dogs need only be bathed every two to four months unless they have become stinky or dirty. Veterinarians discourage too much bathing as it drys the skin and depletes the natural oils.

Ears: About once a week keep the inside surfaces of your dog’s ears clean. Most dogs will find this unpleasant and will not be still, so get help. First, Examine the outside of the ear. Look for lesions, cuts, ticks, fleas, and anything else that is out of the ordinary. Check for any drainage or smell that might indicate an infection and tell your vet if present. Take gauze or a cottonball and wet with ear cleaning solution (available at most pet stores). Water is not recommended because it doesn't evaporate. Wipe the inside of the ear as far down as your finger will go easily, don't force.

Cat's ears are cleaned in the same manner as dogs.

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