Common Cat Skin Diseases-How To Care For Your Cat's Skin

The cat skin, unlike human, is very tough. Make up of numerous layers of cell tissues and skin structures like the hair follicles, sensory cells, and sebaceous glands, it has very good blood supply and has three main functions - to act as a sensory layer around the entire body, to regulate body temperature and to act as a protective layer covering for the internal structures and organs.



It is important to take note and check up on your cat's skin regularly because most of the cat breeds' skin is covered in fur. It is not uncommon for cat owner to discover that their cat has develop some skin diseases until there is hair loss or development of sores.



In order to prevent your cat from developing any serious skin conditions, you can make a little more effort during grooming to check up on your cat's skin. Run your hand gently over his body and explore the skin for any unusual patches, if you found any, part the fur by brushing it slightly, so that you can see beneath the fur and have a better look at the skin. If you do this often enough and understand your cat's body, you would be able to spot any irregularity easily.



It is common for cats to develop skin related conditions and illnesses. And listed below are the main one that affect most cat breeds.



Cheyletiellosis in cats is caused by skin mites and is particularly contagious between cats as well as humans. In cats, the symptoms are itching and it usually results in heavy scaling and flaking of the skin, which is why Cheyletiellosis in cats is popular known as "walking dandruff". This skin condition is usually not deadly and can be easily treated with the right medication once the condition has been diagnosed and confirm.



Alopecia in cats will cause hair loss due to endocrine disturbances, localized infections, or generalized illnesses. The condition can also be a result of stress. The symptoms included bald patches on the skin and can be accompanied by reddened or inflamed skin. Not a deadly skin disease, and with proper treatment, the fur would most likely grow back.



Acne in cats is a common condition and can be easily treated. Nevertheless, there are other skin conditions such as ringworm and mange whose symptoms are closely related to cat acne. Therefore it is still important to seek veterinary advice whenever you spot any cat skin problems and is unsure.



While most skin conditions are cause by allergies to food and pesticides bite, and can be easily managed and treated, early detection is still vital to ensure that your cat skin is always healthy, beautiful and prevented from suffering any serious skin conditions.

Symptoms and Treatments For UTI in Cats, Reviewed

UTI in cats is one of the leading reasons why pet owners bring their cats to their veterinarian. When your cat seem to have lost their appetite for food and water, or when you notice that they have stopped urinating in their litter box, this could mean that they have a urinary tract infection, or some kind of feline lower urinary tract disease. Other signs pointing to a possible infection include weight loss, frequent licking of the genitals and vomiting.



The cat's urinary tract is a complex system, and when one or more parts of it develop an infection it is commonly assumed that it falls under the banner or urinary tract infection. For the most part, a urinary tract infection can be treated without the involvement of a veterinarian, but there are other urinary tract infections that would require professional treatment, and sometimes even a surgical intervention.



Sometimes, pet owners fall into the trap of assuming that their cat's urinary troubles are behavioral in nature. It is always wise to rule out medical conditions first before assuming that the problem is behavioral. The prevalence, and sometimes the gravity, of UTI in cats makes it the first thing that a veterinarian will rule out during initial consult.



Sometimes the cat's urine transform into crystals in their urethra or the tube where the urine flows. These crystals also called "stones" can block the flow of urine. If left untreated, this condition can be life-threatening. This is an emergency situation, where a visit to the veterinarian is imperative. When urine is accompanied by blood, this means that your cat is suffering in serious pain and requires immediate medical attention. Note that a cat will hide their illness until it becomes severe.



The non-life threatening type of UTI in cats usually respond well to improved pet care and health supplements. One way of feline UTI treatment and prevention is the provision of plenty of fresh drinking water to your cat at all times. Switching from dry to wet food is also recommended. A homeopathic remedy consisting of the herbs cantharis, uva ursi and staphysagris is a viable option that has been proven by many to be quite effective. This remedy not only suppresses the pain and inflammation caused by the infection but it actually treats the underlying causes of cat UTI. Oftentimes it is preferred over antibiotics, which only eliminate the microbial cause of the infection, but not the cause which makes the cat susceptible to the infection. Because of this, there is a tendency for UTI to recur in cats initially treated with antibiotics alone.



Your cats need exercise as well, and this can help in fighting the infection as cat UTI is seen more in overweight cats. Choosing the right type of cat food, one that is low on carbohydrates is important in promoting urinary tract health.



UTI in cats is not a new thing, and there is a wealth of information about it. Pet owners need to educate themselves to be able to detect the symptoms of a urinary tract infection to be able to provide feline UTI treatment immediately and save their pets from this very uncomfortable and painful condition.

What is Cushing's Disease in Cats?

It is a disease named after a neurosurgeon who first described this disease in humans about 100 years ago. Cushing's disease is a disorder of the adrenal glands, a pair of bean shaped structures sitting just above the kidneys.



These glands like other glands in the feline endocrine system manufacture and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream that facilitate and regulate a bunch of bodily processes.



Of the many hormones that are secreted, one of the most important ones is a hormone called "cortisol" - a hormone that is involved with the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It also helps maintain normal blood sugar levels, muscle development and many of the other things related to tissue growth and repair.



And if that is not enough cortisol also is essential in an animal's "fight-or-flight" response. In stressful situations, the adrenal glands bring additional cortisol into the bloodstream, which in turn releases stored energy, that is in the body to help a cat cope with the situation it is in. It can also help fight infection in the case of sickness or surgery.



Since this hormone is of such importance to a cat's system, it needs to be controlled in a proper manner as is flows through the cat's system. An excess of this hormone can be very dangerous for a cat. An excess can cause the cat's body not to metabolize nutrients properly, diminish cardiovascular efficiency, reduces muscle strength, interferes with normal blood-clotting functions and hurts the body's ability to ward off infection.



What are the symptoms of Cushing's disease? A cat with Cushing's disease may show an increase in thirst, increased appetite, excessive urination, a potbelly and its skin may bruise or rupture during routine handling.



You may realize from reading the above that some of the symptoms sound like diabetes and that is true, due to the excess cortisol on the blood-sugar metabolism, up to 90 percent of cats with this disease become diabetic.



Cat's with advanced cases of Cushing's disease may also develop hair loss that tends to show up on both sides of the body or on the inside of the thighs. The areas will not itch (unless there is a skin infection, too) it is just a response to too much cortisol in the body.



This disease usually occurs when cats are middle-aged or older and is usually found more in females than males.



According to the reports that I have read, there are two types of cancers that can cause this disease, one is a small, benign, slow growing tumor in the pituitary gland. It is very small and does not cause any type of neurologic problems for the cat, the only thing it does is create an over abundance of adrenocorticotropic hormone, (ACHT) which in turn tells the adrenal glands to produce more cortisol. As a result the adrenal gland will get bigger because of all the exercise (just like a muscle will.)



This condition is called pituitary-Cushing's disease and is believed to be the cause of 80 percent of the cases of this disease.



The other 20 percent of cases are caused by cancerous growths on one or both of the adrenal glands, which causes the gland to become enlarged and thus produces excess cortisol. This type of cancer has a 50-50 chance of being benign or malignant. If it is malignant chances, are it will spread to the lymph nodes or the liver and other vital organs.



What are the treatment options? First of all the disease has to be diagnosed. This is done by having a complete blood count, a blood chemistry panel, urinalysis and a few other tests done.



If Cushing's disease is diagnosed, treatment may involve drugs that will selectively destroy part of the adrenal gland that is producing too much cortisol. Drugs seem to work much better on dogs with this condition than on cats. Unfortunately surgery is usually the answer for cats.



Since the pituitary tumors are too difficult to remove, the alternative is to remove one or both of the adrenal glands. This surgery requires extensive postoperative care. The surgery will only work if the cancer has not spread to any other parts of the body.



The prognosis for survival is quite good, although cats having this surgery will have to be on medication for the rest of their lives and must have tests several times a year to evaluate their condition. Diabetic cats must have their blood chemistry, water consumption and urine output monitored frequently.

Feline Diabetes - Is Your Pet at Risk For Diabetes in Cats?

If you're like most people who are owned by a cat, you don't even think about feline diabetes. But ignorance is not bliss, as the rate of diabetes in cats is exploding. Don't let your pet be blindsided by this disease. Learn how you can prevent a diabetic cat from becoming a reality in your future.



A Fat Cat Is The Biggest Risk Factor For Feline Diabetes



Our kitties depend on us to feed them properly to keep them healthy. Unfortunately, most people think all they have to do is leave dry food out in a bowl for their feline friend to snack on whenever they want. Although this is what the pet food companies tell us to do, feeding your kitty like this is sure to lead to a weight problem, and other health issues, including diabetes in cats and kidney problems.



What's wrong with dry food? There are three problems associated with a dry food diet for kitties:



1. The type of protein is wrong - there are too many plant-based proteins, as opposed to animal-based proteins.
2. The carbohydrate level is too high, leading to weight gain.
3. The water content is too low, which can cause kidney failure later in life. The leading cause of death in older felines is kidney failure.



You need to understand that felines are obligate carnivores. They are meant to get their nutrition from animal protein in the form of meat. They aren't meant to digest a large number of carbohydrates. Feeding your kitty a diet high in carbohydrates will only lead to feline obesity, which, in turn, opens the doors to a wide array of other health problems.



Your pet is meant to get most of his water from his diet. Cats don't normally drink a lot of water, so feeding him a dry diet can lead to kidney problems later in life.



Feeding him a high-quality canned food is the best way to prevent both diabetes in cats and feline kidney failure.



Keep Your Kitty Active



We aren't the only ones who aren't getting enough exercise. Our pets are couch potatoes, too. Your kitty needs exercise every day to keep him healthy, and to burn up extra calories. Exercise is also great for keeping blood sugar levels normal.



Try to schedule two or three exercise session every day with your kitty. You want him jumping around and getting out of breath. A cat toy that looks like a fishing rod is a great way to get him up and moving around. He just can't resist chasing it. You'll enjoy watching him act like a kitten again.



Prevent A Diabetic Cat With Natural Remedies For Cats



Good diet and lots of exercise are wonderful ways to keep your beloved kitty healthy. But wouldn't it be great if there was also a dietary supplement you could give him every day that would prevent feline diabetes? You'll be pleased to know that there is.



This remedy has been carefully formulated for companion animals. The ingredients have been well-researched, and they're safe and effective. The best part is that it's very easy to give to your pet. Just break open the capsule, and mix it with your feline friend's food. You won't have to struggle with trying to get a pill down an uncooperative kitty.



Now that you have this information, what are you waiting for? Start today to prevent your beloved kitty from ever becoming a feline diabetic.

Feline Diabetes - Important Information About Your Cat's Health

Cats have always been one of the most amazing pets in America. They have proven to be affectionate pets, suitable of giving people decades of companionship. Much like various pets, felines can at times get ill. Right now there happen to be a number of distinct varieties of health problems of which cats and kittens may pick up, one is feline diabetes. Feline diabetes is actually a truly serious disorder, despite the fact that this will be able to be managed by your vet.



Diabetic issues is considered much more prevalent with people compared with cats as well as various other animal companions. The actual contributing factor associated with diabetes is essentially rather simple. Sugar, or glucose,will be found within the bloodstream. The amount of glucose levels throughout the entire body or the cat is definitely kept under control by means of hormone insulin, that the pancreas generates. Anytime the pancreas won't manufacture a sufficient amount of blood insulin, diabetes is to blame.



The actual warning signs of feline diabetes may differ. The many typical indicators consist of an increase in urine as well as a serious increase in thirst. Additional signs or symptoms associated with feline diabetes consist of a reduction involving appetite, weight loss, together with a poor coat. A surge in thirst is simple to identify, since anyone will quickly discover the water bowl empty through the day.



In the event that you do not have your kitty taken care of for feline diabetes right away, the cat would sooner or later end up inactive, throw-up on a regular basis, as well as at some point slip into a coma. furthermore,when you get the diabetic issues dealt with in a period of time, the cat will certainly more than likely live a natural not to mention healthy and balanced life. Always keep in mind that healing will not occur right away - this usually takes time along with commitment.



Kittens and cats that get feline diabetes will certainly have to be provided with food at the same time period each day. They must be kept away from going outdoors also. Should your kitty have diabetes, you are going to want to provide him with insulin injections once or twice a day. As soon as your vet assesses your cat, they can explain to you precisely how many shots in addition to just how many insulin shots you will need to administer your cat.



Just before you decide to give your kitty their insulin injection, you will need to definitely ensure that he has a certain amount of food initially. In case he has not had his food and you give him a shot regardless, your cat might wind up with a hypoglycemic shock. That could likewise happen through an excessive amount of insulin too. A hypo could be extremely damaging, and ought to be prevented no matter what. Should the cat get a hypoglycemic shock and you are not available, he could possibly result in perishing.



Whenever you have to give insulin injections to your kitty due to feline diabetes, you must at all times maintain a careful eye on him soon after you have given the shot. Once your cat has been on insulin for a stretch of time, your veterinarian may well decrease the amount of insulin shots. Quite possibly however he might have to remain on insulin the rest of his life, your kitty will certainly live an otherwise wholesome lifespan.



Article Written By J. Foley

What's Wrong With My Cat's Legs?

Is your cat having trouble walking? Are his feet slipping out from under him? Is he walking on his hocks (the "elbows" on his back legs), or on his wrists in the front? Does he have to lie down after a short walk? These are the symptoms of feline neuropathy.



In some kitties, weak legs can be the first sign of feline diabetes. If you already know your kitty has diabetes, this condition indicates that his blood sugar is out of control. He needs an immediate trip to the vet to get to the bottom of the problem.



Feline diabetes is caused when your kitty's body can't regulate his blood sugar levels. This is because either he's not producing enough insulin (type 1), or his body isn't responding to insulin anymore (type 2). In either case, eye, nerve, and kidney cells are more vulnerable to damage from high sugar levels because, unlike other cells, they don't need insulin to absorb sugar from the blood. There's nothing to stop them from taking in too much sugar, which causes internal damage to these cells. This is why it's so important for diabetics to keep their blood sugar under control.



Damage to nerve cells is called neuropathy. You may be able to improve your kitty's leg function, but it does take time and patience.



Before you can do anything about your furry friend's leg weakness, you do need to be sure his diabetes is under control. Many kitties improve when their sugar levels are controlled. In these cases, the leg weakness may have been caused by an electrolyte imbalance. Often this is because your kitty has been urinating too much, which is his body's way of trying to get rid of excess sugar.



Uncontrolled feline diabetes can also cause muscle wasting, and your buddy's leg problems can be due to muscle weakness. Regular exercise can help rebuild muscle. Gently tug on his legs so that he has to use his muscles to pull away. You can try holding his favorite treat above him as he leans on a footstool so he has to reach up for it. "Baby-walking," where you hold up his front end and walk him between your feet, can be helpful. He's able to move around, but he's not stressing those weakened muscles by putting all his weight on his back legs.



You may be able to help your furry friend by giving him methylcobalamin, also known as methyl B-12. This form of vitamin B-12 is active in spinal fluid. It helps to heal damaged nerve cells and restore the pathways between your kitty's brain and his muscles. Be sure you get methyl B-12, not regular B-12. This supplement is available at health food stores.



Give your fur ball three to five milligrams of methyl B-12 each day. Many cats have shown improvement within a few days, but it may take months for your kitty to recover fully. This is a safe supplement, as it's water soluble. What this means is that any excess leaves your kitty's body in his urine instead of building up in his tissues. Studies have shown that there are no side effects, even at high doses.



Feline neuropathy can be an alarming problem. But with proper blood sugar control, exercise, and the use of methyl B-12, your kitty friend can regain most, if not all, of his leg function.

What are the symptoms of a block in cats?

Mucus, struvite crystals, bladder stones can bunch together to form a real thorn in the urethra narrow male cat. The opening is so small that it doesn't take a lot of totally or partially blocking the flow of urine.



Sometimes it's hard to say what are the symptoms of a block because the symptoms mimic other diseases.  Try; Pain during urination, frequent urination, small amounts or no urine, excessive grooming of the genitals and blood in the urine. If urination becomes painful your cat will begin to associate the litter with pain and will stop using his litter box and urinating outside of it. 



Toxins from a cat's urinary obstruction causes vomiting, nausea and loss of appetite.  If the blockade lasts more than three days, toxins accumulate and the result is death.  Symptoms of a cat from the bladder stones are causing severe bladder inflammation, leading to blood in the urine, pain and chronic infections.



The veterinarian will feel the bladder into the abdomen and attempt to push the urine from the bladder.  Sometimes this slight pressure will excrete the blockage, but usually the cat will require other methods to remove the block, maybe surgery. 



Cat urinary blockage is above all a problem of male cats. This is because the female urethra is shorter and wider, so it's much harder for an obstruction to the shape with small crystals or bladder stones. When urinary obstruction becomes applicant in a male cat, it's time to consider the surgical reconstruction of the genitals to create a new urinary opening that is wider so it cannot occur.



There are two main causes of this disease;



1. animals fed a diet with low-quality nutrients and in processed food for pets.



2. Overeating.



Struvite crystals, bladder stones and urinary diseases syndromes are examples of pathological conditions affected nutritionally.  Feral cats eat meat, raw diet with vitamins, minerals and enzymes.  You can feed a raw diet or treat urinary obstruction cat through a prescription diet that stabilizes the pH of urine.  Small bladder stones can be treated with a prescription diet.  Larger stones will have to be surgically removed and after a raw diet or prescription to prevent the return of stones.



There are other options to keep your cat's urinary obstruction-free cat.  Natural alternative products can be added to the diet to promote an environment in the bladder which increases the immune response, maintain the health of the bladder and urinary tract.  Bladder infection treatment homeopathic exist for your cat if you do not want to send them to dangerous side effects of prescription drugs.