vet approved - Barky.com.au

February 14, 2023

5 Eating Disorders That Can Affect Cats: Signs & Treatment

Many cat owners have dealt with kitties who are picky eaters, but did you know that cats can also suffer from other eating problems? While cat eating disorders are not the same as when the terminology is used with regard to humans they can still be serious and complicated to treat. In this article, we’ll cover five “eating disorders” that can affect cats and what to do if you suspect your cat has one of these conditions.

The 5 Eating Disorders That Can Affect Cats

1. Pica

Common signs:	Eating non-food items, vomiting
Treatment:	Medication, increased environmental enrichment, diet change

Pica is a condition defined as consuming non-food items with no nutritional value. Cats with this condition may eat all kinds of non edible objects such as wool, wood, hair bands, plastic, or string. Some will compulsively suck on or chew cloth items like blankets or even other cats. Certain cat breeds, like Siamese, are prone to this fabric-sucking behavior and it may have a genetic component in these cats. Pica may also have a medical or behavioral cause.

Medically, cats may eat inappropriate items because their usual diet lacks key nutrients, or they have worms, hyperthyroidism or other illnesses. Eating cat litter can be a sign of anemia. Boredom, stress, and anxiety are all common behavioral causes of pica. Cats that were weaned too early may also develop this condition. Your vet will need to rule out medical causes of pica before attempting to treat any behavioral concerns or compulsive disorders.

cat biting clog shoes — Image Credit: Jon Pauling, Pixabay

2. Polyphagia

Common signs:	Overeating, weight loss
Treatment:	Medication, diet change, increased mental stimulation

Cats with polyphagia display a seemingly constant desire to eat. Although they have ravenous appetites, they may not gain weight like you would expect or may lose weight. Polyphagia typically occurs due to a medical condition, although sometimes cats overeat because they are bored or stressed, these cats will however, gain weight.

Hyperthyroidism is one of the most common causes of polyphagia in cats, especially older ones. Diabetes, brain disease, and various digestive issues can also cause this eating disorder. Taking some medications, most notably steroids, can cause polyphagia, usually along with increased thirst and urination. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the polyphagia.

3. Anorexia

Common signs:	Eating less or nothing, weight loss, vomiting
Treatment:	Medication, diet change, feeding tube, surgery

On the opposite spectrum of polyphagia is anorexia, which is characterized by decreased (hyporexia) or completely lost appetite. They can also get pseudo-anorexia, where they still want to eat but can’t due to some physical limitations.

Dental disease, mouth tumors, jaw pain, and nerve diseases can cause pseudo-anorexia. True anorexia can have many causes, including stress, nausea, cancer, pain, loss of smell, or systemic diseases like diabetes and kidney disease. Cats are prone to developing a dangerous condition called hepatic lipidosis anytime they don’t eat enough for even a few days. Don’t delay in seeking help if your cat develops the sign of anorexia.

close up of sick-looking orange cat lying on wooden planks — Image Credit: estoymhrb, Pexels

4. Bolting

Common signs:	eating too fast, vomiting, regurgitation
Treatment:	feeding changes, diet change

Bolting or scoffing is where the cat eats so fast that it vomits or regurgitates immediately afterward. This can be irritating to the cat’s stomach and esophagus over time. In addition, the cat is at risk of aspirating (breathing in) food or liquids as they regurgitate.

This eating disorder usually has a behavioral cause. For example, the cat may worry that a housemate will steal their food if they don’t consume it quickly enough. Sometimes they just love the food so much they eat it very quickly. Using a slow or automatic feeder can help with bolting. If you have more than one cat, consider separating them at mealtimes.

5. Coprophagia

Common signs:	Eating poop
Treatment:	Medication, diet change, behavioral modification

Coprophagia, or eating poop, is easily the most disturbing eating behavior a cat can have, at least as far as humans are concerned! Eating poop can be normal for young kittens, but if they don’t grow out of the habit, it can become a problem. Coprophagia may have a medical cause, such as nutritional deficiencies or digestive issues.

Cats with polyphagia may also eat poop as a side effect of their ravenous appetites. More commonly, coprophagia is a behavioral problem, such as a compulsive habit that the cat can’t break. Anxiety or stress can also cause this condition. While coprophagia is much more common in dogs, it can occur in cats too. Treating it involves dealing with any underlying medical condition first. Consider investing in an automatic litter box that scoops poop as soon as your cat exits.

cat poop on plastic shovel — Image Credit: RJ22, Shutterstock

What to Do If You Suspect Your Cat Has an Eating Disorder

As we learned, disorders of eating in cats may have medical or behavioral causes. If you are concerned your cat has an eating disorder, the first step is to see your vet and rule out any medical conditions. Unfortunately, this may be complicated depending on your kitty’s condition.

If basic diagnostic tests fail to identify a problem, your vet may suggest you take your cat to a veterinary internal medicine specialist for advanced care. These specialists are best equipped to help treat rare and complicated medical conditions.

When medical conditions are ruled out, your vet can help you deal with any behavioral issues triggering your cat’s eating problem. Sometimes, small modifications or changes to your cat’s routine or environment may be all that’s needed. More complicated behavioral concerns may require medication or a referral to a feline behavior specialist.

Conclusion

If you suspect your cat has any of these disorders of eating, don’t delay in seeking care for them. Cats are excellent at hiding when anything is wrong with them and could get sicker than you realize quickly. In addition, cats don’t handle disruptions to normal eating as well as dogs, especially any condition that causes them to eat less. Hepatic lipidosis can develop in any cat, but those already overweight are most vulnerable.

Sources

Featured Image Credit: one photo, Shutterstock

The post 5 Eating Disorders That Can Affect Cats: Signs & Treatment appeared first on Pet Keen.

February 14, 2023

Can Dogs Eat Pomelo? Benefits & Risks

Pomelo is a citrus fruit native to Asia that has a lemony taste. It is large and similar to grapefruit in size and appearance. Pomelo’s similar appearance to grapefruit has people wondering if dogs can eat it. The good news is that while grapefruit is not safe for dogs, pomelo is. But although pomelo will not harm dogs if it is eaten, it is still not the best thing for dogs to eat.

This brief guide will go over the benefits, risks, and whether dogs should eat pomelo on a regular basis.

Should Dogs Eat Pomelo?

If dogs eat pomelo flesh by accident or get some scraps with pomelo included, they will usually be okay. However, it is not advisable to feed dogs pomelo on purpose. The reason being is that there are high amounts of sugar in pomelo and the other benefits provided by pomelo can easily be obtained from sources better suited for dogs.

However, pomelo is technically safe and will not cause a toxicity reaction or any acute effects if eaten by a dog.

Pomelo vs. Grapefruit

One of the reasons people are often concerned about pomelo is its similarity to grapefruit. Dogs should definitely not eat grapefruit because the acidity is very harsh on dogs’ stomachs. Pomelo is even called Chinese grapefruit in some circles. It is native to Southeast Asia. The plant material and peel of grapefruit are also toxic to dogs. However, despite the similarities to grapefruit in terms of size and shape, pomelos are much gentler and safer for dogs than grapefruit. Pomelo and grapefruit are not the same, and they carry different risks and benefits from one another.

Fresh raw grapefruit — Image Credit: Nedim Bajramovic, Shutterstock

Potential Benefits of Pomelo

Pomelo has some small benefits for dogs if they eat it. Pomelos are high in vitamin C, lycopene, and fiber. Lycopene can help reduce inflammation. Fiber is good for a healthy digestive system and gut. Vitamin C is always good for immune systems, even in dogs. Despite the benefits, pomelo should be fed in very small quantities, if fed at all.

Potential Risks of Pomelo

The high sugar content in pomelos makes it unsuitable to feed dogs. Dogs with diabetes can be severely impacted by eating too much sugar. Diabetic dogs should avoid pomelo (and other high-sugar fruits) at all costs. Feeding too much sugar too regularly can be harmful to their long-term health. Even healthy dogs can develop diarrhea and stomach pain if they eat too much pomelo. Pomelo is a sugary citrus fruit, and the sugar and citric acid can quickly upset dogs’ stomachs if they eat too much.

Conclusion

Pomelo flesh is technically safe for dogs, but it carries some risks. The marginal benefits are not worth the risks of feeding pomelo regularly. Your dog can get the same benefits from other safer sources than pomelo. If your dog gets pomelo scraps or accidentally gets into some of the fruit, they will be fine, but you shouldn’t go out of your way to feed your dog pomelo on a regular basis.

Sources

Featured Image Credit: Bigc Studio, Shutterstock

The post Can Dogs Eat Pomelo? Benefits & Risks appeared first on Pet Keen.

February 14, 2023

Pneumonia in Dogs: Signs & Care (Vet Answer)

If you have a dog that likes socializing with other dogs, be aware that these social gatherings can lead to illnesses like pneumonia. A dog can develop signs of pneumonia a few days after interacting with a dog who already has the illness. Since pneumonia can be life-threatening, it is vital to know the signs that your dog has contracted pneumonia and how to care for it.

What Is Pneumonia?

Irritation and inflammation of the delicate, gas-exchanging tissues of the respiratory tract are hallmarks of pneumonia. Pneumonia primarily affects the deep tissues of the lungs, including the small airways, air sacs or alveoli, and the tissues in between them, known as the lung interstitium. The inflammation leads to a build-up of fluid in the air sacs, known as pulmonary edema, which impairs the usual gas exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the blood and lungs.

In a healthy dog, the air sacs fill with air as the dog inhales, absorbing oxygen into the bloodstream through tiny vessels called capillaries and expelling carbon dioxide out of the lungs during exhalation. With pneumonia, the air sacs fill with inflammatory fluid instead. As a result of this disturbance, the dog is unable to ventilate, or breathe, sufficiently, meaning there is not enough oxygen in the blood to meet metabolic demands, and an excess of carbon dioxide remains in the system.

If a dog is experiencing oxygen deficiencies during gas exchange, breathing difficulties ensue, which may be life-threatening.

sick german shepherd dog lying on the floor — Image Credit: Taisya Korchak, Shutterstock

What Are the Signs of Pneumonia?

Signs of pneumonia in dogs may range from mild to severe. The most common signs include:

Coughing: dry and non-productive (no mucus) or wet and productive (mucus)
Lethargy or listlessness
Loss of appetite
Labored or rapid breathing
Wheezing
Fever
Nasal discharge
Blue gums or mucous membranes
Exercise intolerance

Complications of pneumonia include:

Inflammation of the thin lining around the lungs (pleurisy)
Susceptibility to additional organisms causing infection in the lungs

What Are the Vital Signs of a Normal Dog?

Knowing the vital signs of a dog is imperative to catching changes early. Refer to the chart below for normal parameters in dogs.

Resting Heart Rate

(bpm)

Resting Respiratory Rate (rpm)

Temperature

(F)

Mucous Membranes

(e.g., gums)

80–120

15–30

99.5–102.5

Bubble gum pink

dog check by vet — Image Credit: didesign021, Shutterstock

What Are the Causes of Pneumonia?

There are a variety of reasons why a dog might develop pneumonia. Common causes are viral or bacterial in nature. Other causes include parasites, fungi, and protozoa. Injury to the respiratory tract, inhaling an irritant such as smoke, chemicals, or foreign material, or breathing in fluids, food, or vomitus can all lead to pneumonia.

1. Viral

Infectious microbes such as canine distemper virus, canine influenza, and parainfluenza may damage the intricate tissues of the lower respiratory tract. The lesions make it easier for bacteria to enter the lungs and cause a secondary infection. Viral infections are typically contagious and can spread in dog parks and boarding facilities.

2. Bacterial

Like viral pneumonia, bacterial pneumonia is common in dogs. Immunocompromised dogs, puppies, and seniors are the most susceptible to infection. According to Dr. Lauren Jones from PetMD, this type of pneumonia is commonly seen as a secondary condition when bacteria enter the lungs through aspiration or inhalation. Common bacterial agents include Bordetella, Streptococcus, and E. coli.

3. Parasites and Protozoa

Certain parasites that invade the respiratory tract can cause pneumonia. These include lungworms and lung flukes. Single-celled eukaryotic microorganisms, known as protozoans, rarely cause pneumonia in dogs. Known infections include toxoplasmosis in dogs.

4. Fungi

Breathing in fungal spores from the environment can lead to pneumonia. This type of infection is most common in the southern and eastern regions of the United States. Dogs with compromised immune systems are most susceptible, although healthy dogs can be infected, too. Causative agents include Aspergillus species (Aspergillosis), Blastomyces dermatitidis (Blastomycosis), and Coccidioides immitis (Valley Fever or coccidioidomycosis).

5. Aspiration

Inhaling liquids or fluids into the lungs can cause aspiration pneumonia. Factors include sedation and anesthesia, excessive vomiting, esophageal abnormalities, cleft palate (e.g., neonates), neurological dysfunction, brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, etc.), or incorrectly giving liquid medications or food by mouth. Use extreme care and handling when it is medically necessary to force-feed a dog or puppy to prevent aspiration pneumonia.

6. Eosinophilic pneumonia

An irritant or foreign substance, such as pollen, spores, or a parasite, triggers an immune reaction in the body. A white blood cell known as an eosinophil migrates to the lungs to help fight the offending antigen. The accumulation of eosinophils and fluid in the air sacs and lung tissue results in inflammation and decreased gas exchange.

a border collie dog looking sick covered with blanket on couch — Image Credit: Lindsay Helms, Shutterstock

How Do I Care for a Dog With Pneumonia?

A dog exhibiting abnormal signs will need a veterinary evaluation as soon as possible. The veterinarian will gather details, including the history, to help guide testing and treatment recommendations. The doctor will also perform a complete physical examination, including listening to or auscultating the lungs with a stethoscope. Dogs with pneumonia may have crackles or wheezes in their chest, which are abnormal lung sounds.

Thoracic radiographs are helpful for evaluating the lung parenchyma for changes indicative of pneumonia, especially in the later stages of the disease. This may show as a gray, patchy, or hazy pattern on x-rays, according to Dr. Lauren Jones from PetMD. Laboratory testing, such as blood tests, respiratory fluid analysis, bacterial culture, and drug sensitivity, and evaluating cells under a microscope (cytology) may aid in the diagnosis and help direct treatment options.

Dr. Caroline Tonozzi, from the Merck Veterinary Manual, explains that treatment should focus on three main areas:

Oxygen therapy if blood oxygen levels are low (hypoxemic)
Appropriate antimicrobials
Supportive care

Oxygen is given by placing the dog in an oxygen cage or inserting a nasal catheter through which oxygen will flow. Medications, such as antibiotics, can be started and changed, if needed, once the laboratory results are back. Organisms are susceptible to different therapies, so this ensures the best medication is chosen to fight the particular organism.

Dr. Wendy Brooks supports intravenous fluid therapy to restore the hydration of the dog and the respiratory secretions. Cough suppressants are not typically indicated in treatment of pneumonia as they suppress the natural ability to remove fluid and mucus from the lungs by coughing.

Supportive care includes nebulization therapy, coupage, and bronchodilators. Nebulization delivers vaporized air in a fine mist which hydrates the lower airways of the respiratory system. Coupage helps to move fluid and secretions out of the lungs and involves firmly patting a hand around both sides of the chest to loosen mucus.

Closely monitor the dog and reassess treatment if there are no signs of improvement within 48–72 hours. Continue antimicrobials for one week after signs of pneumonia resolve and radiographs are clear. Regular check-ups and chest x-rays are monitoring tools to ensure the dog is recovering well without any recurrence of disease or complications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. My dog is coughing. Can I give him over-the-counter cough medicine?

No. Causes for coughing are vast and need to be evaluated by a veterinarian. Cough suppressants may do more harm than good. Never give your dog over-the-counter medications without consulting with your veterinarian first.

2. What is the prognosis for a dog with pneumonia?

With early and aggressive veterinary intervention, dogs generally recover well. However, complicating factors and the severity of the dog’s condition are important to consider when evaluating outcome.

Conclusion

Dogs can develop pneumonia due to a variety of reasons. Common clinical signs include coughing, lethargy, loss of appetite, and labored breathing. Prompt veterinary care is essential once signs are observed. Treatment options include oxygen therapy, medications, and supportive care. Follow-up appointments and periodic chest radiographs are necessary to monitor recovery following treatment.

Sources

Featured Image Credit: Roger costa morera, Shutterstock

The post Pneumonia in Dogs: Signs & Care (Vet Answer) appeared first on Pet Keen.