Cat Dog Pet Forums: November 2012

Removing Airborne Pet Hair - 5 Reasons to Use an Air Purifier to Remove Airborne Pet Hair

Removing airborne pet hair is probably one of the biggest issues that comes with having a pet as part of the family. Whether your pet is a dog, cat, bird, guinea pig or some other adorable creature, pet hair can cause a lot of headache. Of all the solutions you can try, here are 5 reasons to use an air purifier to remove airborne pet hair for good.

1. Saves Time Using an air purifier whose motor is designed to run 24 hours means that airborne pet hair is never allowed to build up in your air. This means you'll spend less time cleaning up after your pets and more time enjoying them; and since the hair is removed from the air before it falls, there is less hair to send airborne from the furniture and floor as you move about the house doing normal activities.

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2. Cleans Pollutants That You Can't See Not only does an air purifier removes dog hair that may be visible, but a high efficiency particles arresting cleaner will remove airborne pollutants that you can't see such as pet dander, dust, sand, dirt that goes airborne after a romp in the yard, or the tiny pieces of kitty litter or wood chips that go airborne after your cat or guinea pig romp in their respective boxes.

Removing Airborne Pet Hair - 5 Reasons to Use an Air Purifier to Remove Airborne Pet Hair

3. Improves Your Health Pet hair and dander are often triggers of allergy, and asthma-like symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, and worse still full blown asthma attacks. By constantly reducing the level of airborne particles that your pet creates-dust, pollen, feathers, dander, kitty litter, sawdust, you create a safe space where both your family and pets can co-exist happily.

4. Economical In many cases filtering your air with a purifier costs no more to operate that a 60 watt light bulb, so operating the purifier costs minimally more in electricity each month and saves gas because you are not having to continually drive to get other products to deal with pet hair that may not provide a solution to the problem.

5. Safe to Use If you're like me, you are continually on guard about everything that you introduce into your home because of the adverse effect it may have on your family and your pet-whether it's the food, toys, treats, cleaning solutions, lawn care products-anything and everything. A well-made air purifier provides only fresh, pollutant free air as a by-product, and is safe for pets and small children because pieces are less likely to be chewed, cause choking, or other injury.

Removing Airborne Pet Hair - 5 Reasons to Use an Air Purifier to Remove Airborne Pet Hair

An excellent resource for a HEPA air purifier to remove airborne pet hair is offered by PurerAir.com-- the Austin Air HM400 at http://purerair.com/pet_dander_air_purifier.html

Cat Eye Disorders

EYE TUMORS

Seventy-five percent of eye tumors in the cat are malignant, aggressive forms of cancer (in dogs the ratio is reversed, 75 percent of tumors are benign and do not spread or become life-threatening). An Iris melanoma is the most common type of tumor affecting cat's eyes. Older cats may develop a visible brown or black spot on the iris of their eye. The Iris is the colored part of the eye. The spots may be single or multiple and are pigmented cells called Melanocytes that have overgrown. Examination involves the use of a slit-lamp biomicroscope, which determines whether or not the tumor is cancerous. If the pigmented area on the iris is flat, the lesion is referred to as an Ins Melanosis. This is considered to be pre-cancerous and is rechecked at six-month intervals.

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IRIS MELANOMA / GLAUCOMA

Cat Eye Disorders

Iris melanoma is also called Melanosis and/or Melanocytoma. Iris melanoma is the term used if the pigmented area on the iris is raised. This is a cancerous lesion. Treatment involves using a diode laser to destroy the cancer cells. Without treatment, Iris melanoma is generally result in Glaucoma. Glaucoma occurs because the cancer cells spread and obstruct the drainage angle of the eye, which is where the fluid within the eye normally drains. Since fluid can not drain from the eye, it builds up within the eye which increases pressure within the eye and causes Glaucoma. In dogs, Glaucoma rapidly results in blindness due to irreversible damage to the retina.

The only sign of Glaucoma in cats may be a slight difference in the size of the pupils which are the dark central area of the eye. Surgical removal of the eye, which is called Enucleation, is often necessary in advanced cases of Ins Melanoma. This alleviates the pain of Glaucoma and removes the cancerous mass.

RETINAL DEGENERATION

Retinal Degeneration is an inherited condition in Abyssinian cats. It occurs between four to six years of age and results in blindness. A dietary deficiency of the amino acid Taurine can also occur in cats fed primarily dog food which results in Nutritional Retinal Degeneration. This condition was first described in 1975 and was called Feline Central Retinal Degeneration (FCRD). Commercial cat foods are now fortified with Taurine to prevent this problem.

Cat Eye Disorders

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Dog Anal Gland Problems - Stop This Grooming Procedure!

Pheromones are chemical messengers that help dogs and cats identify each other in the pack. That's why dogs sniff each other's butts, or another dogs poop they come across on their walks. The pheromones are released when a dog goes poop supplying much biochemical information needed to communicate with one another. They are released via the anal glands found inside the dog or cats rectum. Dog anal gland problems are common, with the common treatment being performed unnecessarily being the cause.

Causes

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Dog Anal Gland Problems - Stop This Grooming Procedure!

The anal glands inside the rectum have a tiny duct that leads out to the anus. When the dog or cat goes poop feces enters the rectum, the colon expands, and these glands squeeze a little pheromones on the feces. When the duct that drains the gland becomes swollen shut the problem is created. In a nutshell what happens is that the muscle that does the work becomes weak from not operating on it's own, and therefor cannot perform on it's own. The area becomes agitated and swollen shut.

When your groomer provides your pet the service of excreting his anal glands he is playing with fire and your pets health and well being is on the line and so is your hard earned bucks because this procedure actually creates unnecessary trauma to the gland. Whether it's your groomer or your vet, excreting your dog or cats anal glands is a procedure you need to ensure your groomer and vet do not do.

In cases where there is an underlying inflammatory condition or low-grade infection that's already in the anal gland, sometimes gentle manipulation by an experienced veterinarian. It is extremely important that your vet knows when to stop squeezing so as to help the gland keep it's muscle tone so it can work on it's own accord preventing anal problems in your dog.

If anal gland muscle tone is lost through regular expression, do not have your veterinarian or groomer automatically express the glands. Tell your vet to check the glands regularly and to determine if the glands are of normal size, not too full, and whether the duct is working properly. In that case, it is best to leave them alone.

The GI Tract and Other Organs

Inflammation of the GI tract is the second runner up for anal gland problems in cats and dogs. It is important to remember that any disease in the gastrointestinal tract also effects these glands. For example Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Allergic Gastritis, allergies, and Allergic Colitis can all effect anal glands in your dog or cat.

Another one is anything that can cause soft stools. This could be medications, parasites or antibiotics. Firm stools are required to apply pressure against the colon wall that allows the glands to express pheromones. A pet having regular or recurrent soft stools or diarrhea can cause anal gland problems. The problem behind the soft stools needs to quickly be addressed and not left unattended.

Pet Allergies

If your pet is sensitive to allergens within his surroundings it is likely that gland problems can arise by causing tremendous itching to the anus making your dog or cat bite and scratch, causing the area to become irritated. If you think you have an allergenic pet you need to have the cause of the allergies investigated and controlled in order to eliminate the gland problem.

Ergonomic Problems

Ergonomic problem refers to anal glands set abnormally deep. When a dog or cat has anal glands placed to low inside, even healthy stools cannot suffice and effectively empty the pheromones during bowel movements. Once again, the glands in this case need to be regularly checked my the vet in order to determine if they need to be expressed manually.

Only extreme circumstances require the surgical removal of anal glands, but according to Dr. Karen Becker, Holistic Veterinarian this surgical procedure under the surgical definition of a "Salvage procedure", meaning it can host a whole other basket of complications.

The first issue at hand in treating dog anal gland problems is for the owner to identify the root problem causing the glands to swell. Determine if the problem is an inflammatory one or an allergic one, or soft stool. If your pet does not have anal gland problems make the choice to eliminate gland expression in your pets life so as to preserve the muscle and do away with anal gland problems in the future. Only in extreme circumstances of your pet needing relief, determined by a vet, should you have the glands expressed.

Dog Anal Gland Problems - Stop This Grooming Procedure!

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Why Does My Cat Pee Everywhere?

Whether your cat is old or young, male or female, anxious or mellow, he or she can get the idea that peeing anywhere but the litterbox is a good thing. Many frustrated humans in the past and present have tried nearly everything to figure out why the cat does this - and, of course, to solve the problem.

Here are the first things that you should do when your cat insists on stinking up your house. You'll have to be patient while you work your way through this list, but soon your kitty will be back to doing his or her business in an appropriate place.

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Your cat needs a full health checkup. In many cases, cats pee right in front of you when they're sick. A urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common health problems, which your vet can treat. Even if that's not what's wrong with your kitty, your vet can track down, and solve, the problem.
Cats who are older or who have health problems (joint pains, for example), can't get in and out of the litterbox like they could when they were younger. Make the litterbox more accessible so that your kitty can get in and out.
The litterbox itself might be a problem. If you have more than one cat, you might need to put out additional litterboxes. The type of litter and how much of it you use can be problems. You should also change the cat litter and thoroughly scrub the litterbox. The plastic tends to absorb urine smells, which can turn off housecats.
Sometimes cats will act out by peeing all over your favorite things. This can be a sign that they're unhappy about something. Try giving your cat more (positive) attention. Extra playtime with his favorite toy can cure the behavioral issue. You can also ask your vet about a product that will help soothe your kitty: Feliway is one example.
Tomcats often spray anything that they wish to mark as their own territory. Sterilization can improve this problem.
Elderly kitties can suffer from feline dementia. They honestly don't realize that they're doing something wrong when they pee all over your clean laundry. Buy housebreaking pads - the disposable kind that people use with puppies - and put them down where your kitty pees the most often. This won't convince her to use the litterbox, but cleanup will be much easier compared to what you're doing now.

Why Does My Cat Pee Everywhere?

You should do a few things when your kitty decides to mark something in your house.

Never hit the cat or rub her nose in the mess. Cats aren't like human children: they don't understand that what they do is wrong. You can deter behavior as the cat is doing it, but trying to teach the cat after the fact doesn't work very well. Instead of scolding kitty afterward, catch her in the act and spritz her with tap water from a spray bottle.
Completely clean the marked territory. Even if you can't smell the cat pee, the cat will. That's her sign to continue peeing there. Visit the pet store for a product that removes all of the pet odors.
Give your cat plenty of positive attention. Despite the stereotypes that surround felines, cats do bond with their humans. They want our attention and will go to great lengths to get it from us.

Don't worry: you'll track down and solve the problem soon enough. In the meantime, be as patient as possible. Your solution will come and you can resume the carefree relationship

Why Does My Cat Pee Everywhere?

Author Ian White is founder of housecarers Housesitting directory

Cats are happier in their own environment. Pet friendly alternative to catteries or cat boarding.

How to Make Pet Clothes Or Dog Apparel the Easy Way

Apparel for pets - crochet dog clothes

Do you like to dress your dog up in pet clothes? Dog apparel is a popular purchase for pet owners. From lounge wear to formal fashions, the modern day pet can be dressed to the nines limited only by the owners imagination. There are even mittens, sunglasses and beach wear available for your furry friend! There are several things to consider when dressing up your dog. Pet apparel comes in many sizes for all breeds. There are some simple measurements you can use to determine the correct size. Remember if your dog is on the border between sizes to choose the larger size to ensure fit and comfort.

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How to make dog clothes

How to Make Pet Clothes Or Dog Apparel the Easy Way

The circumference of the neck - An accurate measurement here is essential to the dogs comfort and breathing ability. You always want at least 2 fingers to fit comfortably between the clothing and the dogs neck. The broadest part of the chest - Always measure the chest at its widest point. If you have a large size dog it is recommended to select the size above your dogs measurement for comfort. The length of the backbone - This should be done from the base of the head to the base of the tail. This is from where the collar sits to the area where the tail is attached. Weight is not a good tool for determining apparel sizes as a dogs build can vary significantly even while weighing the same. If you bring to mind a Doberman and a Rottweiler they can often be in the same weight class but they have completely different body shapes.

Clothes for teacup chihuahua

You must also consider the dog breed and the climate you live in. If you have an Alaskan Malamute (or any other cold weather breed) in a hot climate it can be life-threatening to "dress-up" your dog during the summer months. Over-heating and dehydration is one of the leading causes of dog fatalities during the summer months. There are also breeds that require additional clothing during the winter months. Chihuahuas and other small breeds are notorious for suffering attacks of shivering from the cold weather even indoors. Dog pajamas can be essential for small dogs and older dogs as they lose body heat at night while sleeping. There are also numerous free knitting patterns for dogs and other ways to create clothing for your pets clothing needs are available online. Whatever your purpose for dressing your dog in pet clothes, pet apparel can be a fun way to display your dogs personality and your own creativity.

How to Make Pet Clothes Or Dog Apparel the Easy Way

Linda is the successful publisher of the site Canine-Kids. Linda provides valuable information and help for you the pet owner and your dog.You may find more information and patterns at dog clothes

The Best Thing I've Found to Clean Smelly Dogs

Ask twenty dog owners how to clean a smelly dog and you'll get twenty quirky answers. It seems everyone who has ever dealt with a stinking dog has their own special home remedy for all offending odors. Most of these dog odor cures involve tomato juice, baking soda, tomato juice mixed with baking soda, dish detergent mixed with baking soda, Guinness beer (what a waste!), vinegar, etc., etc. Of course there are the nice people who own dogs with names like Fifi, Fluffy or Mitzy who always recommend the latest flavor of the month pet store shampoo. The last time I bothered to check out dog shampoos the hot favorite was créme de oatmeal with chamomile, jasmine and the ever present aloe vera. The label claimed this aroma therapy for dogs to be "a soothing, relaxing shampoo for your pampered pet". Have you ever seen a soothed and relaxed wet poodle in a bathtub getting his or her rear end washed? I didn't think so, so let's move on.

Your Buddy Boy stinks because he's rolled in his favorite odeur du jour, swam in pond scum, laid in his own poop, or was sprayed by a skunk or tom cat. Hey, dogs will be dogs. You can't do much to change that fact (well the poop thing yes, but that's a whole other subject) so you have to wash the dog. Being the human pack leader of six dogs I would like to share with you what I've found works best to wash out the offending crud and deodorize the hair coat.

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After years of trial and error I found a wonderful, but little known, concentrated d'Limonene cleaning product called "That Orange Stuff". I've tried every home remedy and most commercial pet shampoos and none of them work as well as this product. Not only does it clean and deodorize, but it removes tangles and helps prevent matting too. It's also safe, easy to use and cheap to buy. "That Orange Stuff" is pure and concentrated so it must be diluted with water, preferably in a spray bottle. When any of my dogs registers on the stink-o-meter, aka my nose, I wash them with a dilution of 1:64 (½ oz. product per 1 quart of water) which translates to about 22 cents a quart. The next time you visit the pet store with Fido try buying a quart of pet shampoo for 22 cents. It won't happen.

The Best Thing I've Found to Clean Smelly Dogs

This dog cleaning and deodorizing solution is easy. Just put about ½ ounce (1 capful) of "That Orange Stuff" into a one-quart spray bottle, fill with water and shake until it turns milky. Spray directly on the smelly soiled area of the coat until wet, lightly spray the rest of the dog's coat, work the cleaner into the soiled areas to loosen debris, work it through the rest of the coat for several minutes, rinse away completely with tepid or cool water, dry the dog off with clean towels, then brush the coat to a nice sheen. Use a grooming comb or brush if needed on heavily soiled areas while washing. Protect the dog's eyes while spraying as it may sting them. Note that the dilute cleaning solution will not lather up like shampoos. If you must have suds, then shampoo the dog as usual after cleaning with "That Orange Stuff".

Keep in mind "That Orange Stuff" isn't a pet shampoo and doesn't make any label claims to that effect. But, tomato juice, baking soda, chamomile, jasmine, oatmeal, aloe vera, and all that other stuff you've tried aren't shampoos either. "That Orange Stuff" is registered as a concentrated d'Limonene all purpose cleaner, and it is labeled as safe for people, pets and the planet. This is a "try at your own risk" solution to a smelly dog problem. But, unless your dog is allergic to oranges, this should be a safe alternative to the chemicals, dyes and other suspicious additives found in most shampoos.

Where do you buy it? I've never seen it on a big box store shelf or at any of the pet stores that I shop. You will find it online at several estores if you Google 'That Orange Stuff'. Just click a couple of these stores and buy from the one offering the best deal that day. You'll be glad you did every time you use it. When you start using this fantastic product you'll find a hundred other cleaning uses for it too. In fact, its now the only product I buy for cleaning everything except windows. Please understand that I am not promoting or endorsing this product as a dog or pet shampoo. My sole purpose here is to share my experience using this product to safely clean and deodorize my own dogs. The next time your dog offends your stink-o-meter you might want to have a bottle of "That Orange Stuff" on hand just to give it a try. I'd love to hear back from any readers who give it a try!

I hope you found the information in this article to be useful. Please remember to spay and neuter and to support your local dog and cat rescue facility.

The Best Thing I've Found to Clean Smelly Dogs

Wayne Morrison is the pack leader of George, Buddy, Bridgette, Sadie, TommyGirl, and Smoocher. He is also an entrepreneur and freelance writer. To ask about any of the information given in this article you may email him at: wmorrison_ag@yahoo.com