Photo by Joyful on Unsplash According to the World Health Organization, the global obesity epidemic is one of today’s most neglected public health problems, estimated to affect 300 million adults worldwide. Unfortunately, the obesity epidemic does not just affect people, it has spread to our pets as well. Recent studies estimate that 58% of all cats in the United States are overweight. While many people think fat cats are cute, overweight cats are unhealthy and at risk for a number of health issues. Just like humans, obese cats are more likely to develop skin conditions, diabetes and arthritis. A study published in the June 1998 issue of JAVMA found that obese cats are two times more likely to develop non-allergic skin conditions and five times more likely to develop arthritis than cats with ideal body weight. Obese male cats are more likely to develop diabetes than cats with normal body weight. Even more alarming is the fact that obese cats are more likely to die younger than non-obese cats.  Photo by Nika Benedictova on Unsplash   So how do you know if your cat is overweight? This can be difficult because cats come in all sizes and shapes and so we can’t rely on weight alone. The best way people can find out if their pet is a healthy weight is to ask their veterinarian. Your veterinarian will do a complete physical examination, give you an objective opinion about your cat’s weight, determine their body condition score by examining their appearance from above, from the side, and by palpating their ribs, spine, and other bony prominences. The body condition score ranges from 1 to 9, with 5 being ideal, 1 too thin, and 9 obese. Your veterinarian will set your pet’s goal weight and help you determine the best ways to decrease your cat’s weight. Most importantly, your veterinarian will ensure that your pet’s obesity is due to excess calories and not an underlying medical condition.  So how do you help your cat lose weight? The underlying principle is to intake fewer calories than you consume, creating a caloric deficit. The easiest way to do this with a cat is to restrict their caloric intake. This can be accomplished by decreasing the quantity of food they eat or by switching to a low-calorie diet. Of course, as in people, a successful weight loss program incorporates exercise to burn more calories. Photo by Piotr Musioł on Unsplash Most commercial diets are formulated for the needs of active, intact cats. To help your overweight, indoor, neutered or spayed cat lose weight, most veterinarians recommend decreasing the amount of food by 30 percent and giving it in three to five separate meals. Another option is to switch to one of the many available low-calorie weight-loss diets. Check with your veterinarian first to determine what would be best for your particular pet.  Besides restricting your cat’s caloric intake, increasing their level of activity will increase their metabolic rate and help burn more calories. Most pet parents know how to exercise their dog, but how to you exercise a cat? You can’t exactly go on a run or play fetch outside with your feline. Fortunately, there are a couple of things you can do to help get cat coach potatoes up and moving.  First, encourage active play. Laser pointers, motorized mice, and feathers toys can get your cat running and jumping. Most cats find laser pointers irresistible and they will chase the light for hours, giving you hours of free entertainment. No matter what toy your cat prefers, the goal is just to get them moving. Make them work for their food. If you live in a 2-story house, put their food and water on a different level than where your cat sleeps. This forces them to walk up and down the stairs to get to their food and water. If you live in a single-story house, try placing the food bowls up on a counter where your cat will have to jump up to get their food and water. Of course, this only applies if your cat is healthy enough to go up and down stairs or jump on a counter.  Photo by Piotr Musioł on Unsplash The key to helping your cat lose weight safely is to have a plan. Before starting a weight-loss program, have your veterinarian determine your cat’s ideal weight and develop a diet. Check your cat’s weight regularly to ensure its losing weight at an appropriate rate. Remember it takes time and patience, but weight loss can have significant benefits on your cat’s health. It can improve comfort and function in arthritic animals and some diabetic cats will go into remission with the combination of weight loss, diet changes and insulin. So, if you suspect your cat may be overweight, be sure to bring your cat in to their veterinarian for a check-up.    

Ferrets are adorable and entertaining pets. Though ferrets are generally healthy, like any other pet, they require proper care and attention to remain happy and healthy. The average lifespan of a ferret is 7-10 years. To ensure that your ferret lives a long and healthy life, you will need to provide proper housing, good nutrition, exercise, grooming, and preventative veterinary care.    1. Housing Ferrets love to play and explore, which means that they need a spacious cage with plenty of room to move around. Their cage size should be at least 24 inches long, 24 inches wide and 18 inches high. Make sure the cage is big enough to separate your ferret’s food and water, bedding and litter. Multi-leveled cages work well for young healthy ferrets. Your ferret’s cage should be made of durable materials such as metal, plastic, or wood, with secure doors and locks to prevent your ferret from escaping. Midwest makes this very nice deluxe cage that works great for ferrets.    In addition to the cage, you will need bedding to cover the cage floor. You can use recycled paper products, aspen chips, and wood pulp products, such as carefresh®. carefresh® is ideal for ferrets because it is twice more absorbent than shavings, can suppress odors for up to 10 days, is 99% dust-free, and is soft and comfortable. Newspaper is not ideal since it is not very absorbent and needs to be changed frequently. Cedar and pine shavings are not recommended because they can cause respiratory problems. Corn cob products are also not recommended as they can be ingested and lead to obstructions. No matter which bedding you ultimately chose, the bedding needs to be changed regularly to keep the cage clean and odor-free. Ferrets can be trained to use a litter box. You’ll need a corner litter boxes and a litter made from paper such as carefresh Rabbit and Ferret Litter. Finally, remember that your ferret needs a place to sleep and hide. They should have a hiding place where they can feel safe and secure. They also like to lounge in soft hammocks or slings.   2. Feeding Ferrets are obligate carnivores with high metabolisms. Ferrets require a high-protein diet that is specially formulated for them. Feed your ferret high-quality commercial ferret food that is high in protein and avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and sugar. Remember to always provide clean water and change it frequently. Treats should also consist primarily of meat. It is important to know that cat and dog food do not fulfill the nutritional needs of ferrets.   3. Exercise and Play Time Ferrets are naturally playful and social pets. They are not cage pets. To stay healthy, ferrets need regular exercise and playtime. Let your ferret go out of their cage for at least two hours per day so they can play and explore in a designated ferret-proof room or playpen. You can also take your ferret outside for walks using a special ferret harness. Purchase toys that are safe for your ferret to play with, like balls, tunnels (ferrets love tunnels), and chew toys. Make sure the toys you provide have nothing your ferret can chew off and swallow. Be sure to always supervise your ferret, as they are very curious and can get themselves into trouble if left unattended.   4. Grooming Ferrets have a sleek coat that requires little maintenance. However, they do need to be groomed occasionally to prevent hairballs and maintain healthy skin. Brush your ferret's coat with a soft-bristle brush at least once per week. Like other mustelids, ferrets normally have a slightly musky odor. Regular bathing is not required, but if done should be no more than once a month as it can strip their skin of natural and essential oils leading to dry itchy skin.    5. Veterinary Care Just like other animals, Ferrets need to see the veterinarian annually for a complete physical exam and vaccinations for canine distemper and rabies. As ferrets get older, they may require more frequent check-ups and need dental cleanings.  In conclusion, ferret are relatively low-maintenance pets. However, to stay healthy and live a long life, they need proper care. Follow these tips to ensure that your ferret lives a long healthy life.  

Besides cats and dogs, chinchillas rank behind guinea pigs as the most popular pet in the US (based on Google search data). Chinchillas are adorable rodents native to the Andes in South America. They are popular for being low-maintenance, affectionate pets that are famous for their ultra-soft, dense fur. However, like any other pet, they are susceptible to certain health problems and can become ill if not properly cared. To help keep your chinchilla healthy, you should become familiar with the following most common chinchilla health issues. Dental problems A chinchilla's teeth are consistently growing throughout the lifespan, and if their teeth do not wear down sufficiently, it can lead to dental issues. The dental problems in chinchillas commonly include overgrown incisors, malocclusion, and “slobbers” (excessive drooling). To prevent dental issues, provide your chinchilla with a balanced diet containing hay, fresh foods, and chew toys. Chinchillas need a high-fiber diet with lots of hay to help wear down their teeth. Gastrointestinal Stasis Gastrointestinal stasis or 'GI stasis' is an issue where a chinchilla's digestive system slows down, resulting in a backup of gas leading to abdominal pain, and even death. This issue may be a result of stress, pain, or a diet devoid of fiber. If you notice your chinchilla is sitting still, sitting in an unusual manner, or not grooming, visit your veterinarian since GI stasis may become a serious or even life-threatening health issue. Fur Biting Chinchillas are known to nibble on their fur due to stress, boredom, or hunger, leading to hair loss and bald patches. If you notice your chinchilla gnawing themselves excessively, provide them with plenty of toys, try to soothe them by cuddling, and make sure their diet is well-balanced. Heatstroke Chinchillas are susceptible to heatstroke in hot environments. This is because they are mammals that can't sweat like humans and have a lot of fur on their bodies to keep them warm in their frigid native environment. If your chinchilla is suffering from heatstroke, they may appear lethargic or struggle to breathe. You can prevent heatstroke by ensuring that your chinchilla's living space is air-conditioned or at least well-ventilated. Respiratory issues Respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia, rhinitis, and bronchitis can occur in chinchillas. Prolonged exposure to dust, damp living conditions, or bacterial infections may cause respiratory issues in your pet. Symptoms of respiratory infections in chinchillas include discharge from the eyes and nose, noisy breathing, and coughing.   In conclusion, chinchillas are fantastic, low-maintenance pets. However, as a pet owner, it's essential to be mindful of their unique health concerns, and if they display any of the aforementioned symptoms, consult a veterinarian promptly. Understanding the health issues that chinchillas face ensures that you can provide them with timely appropriate care, and by keeping their health in check, deter the development of serious ailments.   The makers of carefresh™ bedding are dedicated to making the best bedding and committed to helping pets live longer, healthier lives by educating pet parents about important pet health topics.

As a pet owner, it’s imperative for you to be able to identify if your pet is sick. However, as prey animals, hamsters are naturally good at hiding their illnesses. As a result, it is hard to tell if your hamster is sick, especially if you don’t know what you are looking for.  The goal of this blog is to share some of the common signs of illness in hamsters and discuss what you should do if you notice any of them. 1. Change in behavior One of the first signs of illness in hamsters is a change in behavior. If your hamster becomes more lethargic than normal, is not as active, or is sleeping more often, this may be an indication that they are not feeling well. Additionally, if they are not eating or drinking as much as usual, or are refusing to eat altogether, this is another major warning sign of illness and a reason to call your veterinarian. 2. Changes in their physical appearance Changes in your hamster’s physical appearance may be another sign your hamster is sick. Be sure to check your hamster’s appearance daily and look for any changes. Does your hamster have any discharge from their nose, eyes, or mouth? Does their coat look unkept, matted or do they have any hair loss or bald spots? Does your hamster have any lumps, bumps or swelling anywhere? How do their feet look? Are they red, irritated, scaly, swollen? Do they seem to be having any trouble walking?   3. Change in stool Stool is another indicator of your hamster’s health. Change in stool can be sign that your hamster is sick. Be on the lookout for changes in your hamster’s stool color, consistency, and amount.  If you notice any changes in their behavior, appearance, or stool, it could be a sign that your hamster is ill and needs to see a veterinarian right away. Your veterinarian will examine your hamster and may need to run some diagnostic tests to determine the problem. Then they will recommend an appropriate treatment plan for your hamster.   Signs of Illness Change in appetite Nasal or ocular discharge Lumps, bumps or swelling on the body Change in coat Red irritated feet Change in stool Prevention Is there anything you can do to help keep your hamster healthy? Yes! Providing your hamster with a healthy diet and access to fresh water at all times is crucial to their overall health. Avoid placing your hamster's cage in drafty areas and utilize a high quality, dust-free bedding, like carefresh® bedding. Carefresh® bedding is dust-free, twice more absorbent than shavings, can suppress odors for up to 10 days, and is soft and comfortable. Be sure to keep your hamster’s cage clean and free from moisture. While we can’t prevent all illnesses, taking these important steps are the best way to prevent many common medical problems seen in hamsters.   In conclusion, being aware of and looking out for changes in your hamster's behavior and physical appearance is crucial in identifying if they are sick. Prompt veterinary care and preventative measures will help keep your furry friend healthy and happy. As a responsible pet owner, it's essential to stay vigilant and take action as needed to ensure the best possible care for your hamster.  

As a cat parent, it's important to understand the importance of spaying or neutering your feline friend. Not only does it prevent unwanted litters, but it also offers numerous health benefits for your pet. However, after the surgery, your cat will require extra care and attention to ensure a speedy recovery. Below are some tips on how to care for your cat after they have had surgery: 1. Provide a comfortable and quiet space for your cat: After undergoing surgery, your cat will need a quiet and peaceful place to rest and recover. Provide a cozy bed, plenty of blankets, and a space away from any loud noises or disturbances. 2. Monitor your cat's appetite: Post-surgery, your cat may experience a decreased appetite due to pain or discomfort. Offer your cat small amounts of their favorite food and monitor their eating habits closely. If you notice a significant decrease in appetite or no eating at all, contact your veterinarian immediately. 3. Keep your cat hydrated: Encourage your cat to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. You can also add wet food to their diet to increase their fluid intake. 4. Keep the incision sites clean: The incision site or sites (if your cat is a male, they will have two small incisions) are susceptible to infection, so it's essential to keep them clean and dry. Check the area daily and make sure there's no redness, swelling, or discharge. In addition, change your cat’s litter to dust-free formulation, like ökocat’s dust free non-clumping paper pellet cat litter. Litter dust or clumping litter can stick to your cat’s surgical incisions and cause an infection. If you have any concerns, contact your veterinarian. 5. Prevent your cat from licking their wound(s): Your cat may want to lick or chew the incision sites (they can be itchy), which can lead to infection or delayed healing. Use an E-collar to prevent your cat from accessing the area. If your cat won’t tolerate an e-collar speak with your veterinarian about other options to prevent them from licking their incision(s). 6. Limit physical activity: Following the surgery, your cat will need to rest and avoid any strenuous activity to assist with healing. Make sure your cat has limited movement and doesn't jump, run or play too much. If their food is normally on a counter, move it down on the floor so they don’t have to jump. 7. Administer medication as directed:Your veterinarian will provide medication to help manage your cat's pain and discomfort. Follow the instructions carefully and give medication at the specified times. In conclusion, caring for your cat after he or she is spayed or neutered is essential to ensure a successful recovery. Keep a close eye on your cat's behavior and contact your veterinarian if you notice any concerning symptoms. By following these tips, you can help your feline friend return to her playful and lively self in no time!