It's not unusual for a cat to have an "accident" in the house.  A physical exam for your cat is the first step.  Typically the next test is a urinalysis and a stool/parasites test.  This allows us to see if it is a medical or behavioral problem.  If medical, it can be treated with appropriate medications.  If it's a behaviour problem remedies include:  one litter box per cat per household, make sure litter boxes are accessible (not behind closed doors), no covers, scooped twice daily, litter box needs to be entirely emptied and cleaned weekly, trying different types of litter, and ho harsh chemicals.  Pheromones (natural scents emitted by contented cats) can be placed within the household to lessen territorial marking.  In some cases specific drugs can be used to modify behaviour.  Do not delay in calling us for help.  The longer left unattended, the harder it is to stop!

You're not alone!  This is a very common problem this time of year.  The key is to get to the underlying problem.  Thorough patient history, exams, and tests for the most common reasons (fleas, allergies, pollens, mange, ringworm, bacterial & yeast infections and the pet's food) can lead to a diagnoses.  Once a diagnoses is made, individualized treatment can begin.

For instance, if the problem is fleas, regular use of Frontline can easily take care of the problem.  Medications for allergies and pollens can dramatically lessen scratching and itching.  Table scraps and treats may also be the culprit.  Specialized foods tailored for your pet's dietary needs could solve a skin problem.  Constant scratching and itching is as annoying for your pet as it is for you.  Relief is only an appointment away.  Call Greens Fork Animal Hospital and set up a convenient time for you and your pet.

Typically this type of behavioral problem isn't fixed by surgery.  Rarely are dogs declawed.  Steps to take include:  separate feeding areas; physical separation using leash and collar; separate rooms and pet designed cages.  Take turns having one pet penned and other pet free, allowing them to come into physical contact with one another in a safe manner.  Reward both with food, praise and petting!

Just like kids, dogs and cats need their own space from other pets and people.  Progress depends on your pets feeling safe.  Make sure each pet has its own food and water dish, toys, and sleeping area.  At Greens Fork Animal Hospital we specialize in starting puppies and kittens off on the right track and correcting unwanted behaviors in adult pets.  Our staff provides the latest medical and behavioral services for your cat or dog, helping pets enjoy safer and healthier futures.

Any condition that causes pain in people produces pain in pets.  Pets are great pretenders.  Showing pain in the wild means easy prey.  Here are typical signs to look for . . .poor appetite, limping, tenderness to touch, depression, toileting problems, and inactivity.  Diseases can also cause pain.  The top two we see at Greens Fork are arthritis and dental disease (dog or cat breath).  Routine surgeries such as spays, neuters, and declaws should only be done with proper pain medication.

Pain control is easy for pets.  At Greens Fork we provide pain control plans specifically tailored for your pet's needs.  Ask about pain management during your next visit.

I'd be happy to address your question and provide you with good information regarding your pet's oral health.  Pets require regular dental cleaning to maintain their optimal level of health.  Gingivitis and periodontal disease can lessen your pet's quality of life and longevity.  Instinctively, pets are very good at disguising pain giving only subtle signs that often go unnoticed by owners.  A thorough examination and cleaning by a veterinarian can detect problems early when treatment options are least expensive and more easily tolerated by the pet.  An added bonus is fresher breath.