Tag Archives: animal hospital Georgetown IN

Cat Care, General Care

Cute Ways to Pamper a Senior Cat

Did you know that it’s no longer uncommon for cats to live well into their late teens or even their 20’s? You won’t notice drastic changes happening quickly as your kitty ages, but Fluffy will benefit from some extra TLC in her golden years. Here, a Georgetown, IN vet offers some tips on keeping a senior cat comfy and purring.

Beds

All cats are sleepy, but senior ones are purrticularly tired. Fluffy may spend up to 20 hours a day snoozing! Make sure she has lots of comfy spots to curl up in. Your furry friend may have a hard time jumping onto things, so offer her napping spots that are easy for her to get on and off.

Stimulation

Your feline pal’s mental health is just as important as her physical well-being. If you’re leaving your kitty alone, leave a light and a TV or radio on for her. This will help her from feeling lonely.

Playtime

Fluffy won’t be as mischievous as she once was, but she’ll still have her kitten moments. Take a few minutes a day to play with your cute pet. This will be good for her both mentally and physically. It’s also a great way to get that little motor going!

Brushing

Your kitty may have a hard time bending and stretching, which can make it hard for her to groom her entire body. Brushing your furball daily will remove dead hair from her coat, and keep her from feeling itchy and uncomfortable.

Window Seat

Give your furry buddy a comfy spot with a good view. Our feline friends love to watch birds and squirrels! Fluffy may spend hours relaxing in a sunbeam and looking out the window.

Nightlights

Your furball may have trouble seeing at night. Setting out a night light or her will help her get around more easily.

Senior-Friendly Facilities

Small touches can make life much easier for Fluffy. Get her a litterbox with low sides. This will be easy for her to get in and out of. Pet ramps or stairs will help her jump off and on her favorite perches.

Love

The secret ingredient in any good pet care routine is simple TLC. Pay lots of attention to your adorable pet, and make sure she feels loved!

As your Georgetown, IN veterinary clinic, we are here to help! Please contact us anytime!

Cat Care, General Care

Ginger Cat Appreciation Day

Do you have a ginger kitty? If so, you may want to get Fluffy a special treat or a new toy. Today, September 1st, is Ginger Cat Appreciation Day! A Georgetown, IN vet discusses ginger cats in this article.

“In my head, the sky is blue, the grass is green, and cats are orange.” ― Jim Davis, creator of Garfield

About Ginger Breeds

Ginger cats—also known as orange tabbies or sometimes marmalade kitties—are not associated with any specific breed. In fact, ginger coloring is acceptable in almost all breeds. There are four different variations of coat patterns, including the classic, mackerel, striped, and ticked patterns. As you may have noticed, our redheaded feline pals can display quite a few different hues. Some are dark red, some are more cream-colored, and others look quite orange. This is because of a specific pigment, which is called pheomelanin. And, in case you were wondering, yes, this is the same pigment that is responsible for red hair in humans.

Famous Ginger Cats

There quite a few celebrity ginger cats. Morris, the famous cat food ‘spokescat,’ is one of the first ones that comes to mind. (Note: three different kitties have played Morris, and they were all adorable. They were also all rescued from shelters!) You may also have heard of the Youtube celebrikitty, Marmalade, half of the lovable Cole and Marmalade duo. Last but certainly not least, we have Garfield, the lasagna-loving, eternally unimpressed furball that has been charming readers since 1978. Beloved worldwide, this famous cartoon kitty is known for being lazy, hating Mondays, drinking coffee, and scheming against his canine roommate, Odie. What’s not to love?

Fun Facts

Kitties all have their own adorable quirks, and ginger furballs are certainly no exception. It may interest you to know that most orange kitties—about 80 purrcent, in fact—are male. Why? No one knows! It’s just one of many of Fluffy’s adorable and mysterious quirks. Another cute thing about ginger cats? They often get freckles. Ginger cats also seem to share some purrsonality traits. While all cats are unique, with their own characters, people with ginger cats often report that their furballs are lazy, affectionate, and love to eat… just like Garfield!

Do you have questions about your ginger cat’s health or care? As your Georgetown, IN vet clinic, we’re here to help. Call us today!

Behavior, Cat Care, General Care

5 Things Your Cat Can’t Resist

If you have a kitty, you’ve probably noticed that our feline pals all have their own purrsonalities. Some cats are chatty and cuddly, while others are quiet and aloof. However, all of our furry friends do have some common likes and dislikes. Read on as a local Floyds Knob, IN vet lists some of the things that Fluffy just can’t resist.

Boxes

Fluffy’s box obsession may just be one of her most adorable quirks. If you put a box down in front of your feline friend, there’s a pretty good chance that she’ll immediately hop into it. The official explanation for this cute habit is that cats feel safe and secure in small spaces. However, kitties often hop into boxes that are really just squares of tape on the floor.

Sunbeams

We’re fairly certain that cats don’t actually run on solar power. However, they certainly do love to soak up some sun. There’s a pretty good chance that your furry little buddy takes at least some of her daily naps in her favorite sunbeam.

Sheet-Changing Time

Does your kitty lend you a helping paw when it’s time to change the sheets? Cats of all ages often try to help their owners out with this chore. Fluffy may not actually be all that useful, but this funny quirk is still super cute.

Knocking Things Off Counters

Cats often just can’t seem to stop themselves from smacking small objects off tables and counters with their paws. This may be Fluffy’s way of demanding attention. Or, maybe she thinks she’s helping with the housework. (Here’s an interesting note: if your feline overlord uses her right paw to do this, she’s right-pawed. If she uses her left, then your furry pal is a lefty.)

That Little Red Dot

Fluffy has been trying to catch this elusive prey for years, without much luck. You’d think that our feline buddy would get tired of trying, but that just hasn’t happened yet. Apparently, kitties think that mysterious red spot is a truly worthy adversary! In any case, holding a laser pointer for your furball to chase is a great way to help keep your frisky pet active, and spend some quality time with her.

Please do not hesitate to contact us, your local Floyds Knob, IN pet hospital, for all of your cat’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Winter Care for Dogs

Winter is approaching fast! As the weather changes, you may need to make a few adjustments to your dog’s care routine, in order to keep Fido happy and healthy. Winter can be very dangerous for our canine pals! Here, a Georgetown, IN vet discusses winter care for dogs.

Food

Some of our furry friends need to eat a little more in cold weather. If your canine companion is a working dog, puppy, nursing mama, or just spends a lot of time outdoors, he may need bigger portion sizes in winter. Follow your vet’s nutritional recommendations.

Clothing

Fido might need doggy clothes to help him stay warm on frigid days, especially if he has thin fur. When shopping for your pooch, always take his measurements with you. (Tip: text them to yourself, so you always have them.) Avoid anything itchy, tight, or constricting. Also, stay away from items with zippers and/or small pieces that your furry pal may try to eat, such as buttons.

Activity

While you may not relish the thought of going to the doggy park on a freezing-cold day, it is important to keep Fido active. You can play Fetch or Tug-o-War with your pet inside, though you’ll of course want to choose areas without a lot of breakable objects. Stair runs will also give your furry buddy a great workout. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Paw Care

Snow, salt, sand, ice, and chemical de-icing products can all hurt your dog’s sensitive paw pads. If your canine buddy doesn’t like wearing booties, use paw balm or wax to protect his feet. Also, remember to choose pet-friendly de-icing products. Last but not least, keep Fido’s claws trimmed: this will make it easier for him to gain traction on slippery surfaces.

Walking

Since the sun sets so early in winter, you’ll probably be walking your four-legged friend after dark quite a bit. Get Fido a reflective leash and collar, and wear a reflective jacket yourself. Wear shoes with good traction, and bring a phone and flashlight with you. Keep an eye on the ground, as the snow can hide dangerous objects, like broken glass. Also, don’t bring your pooch near frozen bodies of water, riverbanks, or other dangerous areas.

Please do not hesitate to contact us, your Georgetown, IN pet hospital, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs. We are dedicated to providing excellent care!

Behavior, Dog Care, General Care

Fido’s Pet Peeves

Fido’s cute face, adorable antics, love, and loyalty have earned him a special place in our hearts, and made him part of the family. While every dog is different, there are some things that our canine pals have in common, including some very specific pet peeves. Below, a Floyds Knob, IN vet lists some things your furry buddy doesn’t like.

Hugs

Fido may not mind hugs from his owners: in fact, many of our furry friends love to cuddle with their human friends. However, dogs often become uneasy when strangers hug them. This is because hugs translate into a sign of dominance in doggy body language.

Shouting

We really can’t blame Fido for this one: after all, no one likes getting yelled at. Never shout at your pet, even if you’re reprimanding him. Dogs don’t understand the concept of punishment, so your furry pal won’t understand why you’re angry. Use positive reinforcement instead, and focus on rewarding your pup for doing well. If your pooch has a specific behavioral problem, ask your vet or a professional dog behaviorist for advice.

Being Lonely

Dogs are pack animals by nature. In the wild, Fido would rarely be alone. Our canine buddies can feel sad, lonely, and depressed if they are left alone too much. Spend plenty of time with your four-legged friend: it will be good for both of you!

Staring

We know, Fido likes to look you right in the eye, especially when he’s hoping that you’ll share your cheeseburger. But you should never stare a strange pooch in the eye; dogs see this as a signal of aggression.

Baths

No surprises here: many of our canine friends run and hide when they hear the dreaded B-word. But even if Fido hates being bathed, proper grooming is important to his health and well-being!

Change

Dogs thrive in a stable environment, with a consistent schedule. While Fido may love going for adventures, an afternoon in the park is a far cry from a major life change. Getting a new roommate (human or furry); moving; changing owners; or losing a friend can be very traumatic for Man’s Best Friend! If you and your pup are experiencing a big change, pay extra attention to your four-legged pal.

Is your canine buddy due for a trip to the vet? Contact us! As your Floyds Knob, IN animal clinic, we’re here to help.

Behavior, Cat Care, General Care

9 Ways Cats Help With Housework

Is your cat pampered? It may seem that housecats lead a pretty idyllic life. Fluffy’s schedule is chock full of naps, cuddles, and beauty treatments. Actually, our feline friends are very considerate of their human servants, and often try to lend a helping paw with ordinary household chores. A local Georgetown, IN vet lists some ways cats try to help with housework in this article.

Keeping Laundry Warm

Have you ever found your cat in a basket of fresh laundry? Fluffy is just trying to help out by keeping your laundry nice and warm. She’s also thoughtfully putting fresh cat fur on it. How sweet!

Making Beds

Kitties are always willing to help when it’s time to change your sheets. Fluffy will kindly jump and pounce on the bed.

Clearing Tables

Does your cat sometimes knock small objects off tables or counters? Fluffy is just trying to be helpful by keeping your surfaces clear!

Sleeping

Kitties often spend time every day sprawled out on your floors or carpet. By sleeping in the middle of the room, Fluffy is thoughtfully picking up dust with her fur, helping keep your floors cleaner.

Making Holes In Blinds

Has your cat ever made herself a little door in your window blinds? Your considerate feline friend is just trying to let in as much light as possible!

Furring Your Things

If you have a kitty, you’re probably somewhat accustomed to finding cat hair on your clothes and furniture. Actually, Fluffy sheds on your things deliberately, in order to spur extra rounds of vacuuming and dusting. Cats are so sweet!

Pushing Toys Under The Couch

Fluffy knows that it isn’t polite for her to leave her kitty toys scattered all over the floor. Therefore, she’ll help you out by conveniently pushing her toys under the couch. Our feline friends certainly are thoughtful little furballs!

Knocking Things Under The Stove

Just as Fluffy pushes her toys under the couch, she will also politely bat small items under the stove or fridge, helping your floor stay cleaner.

Wrapping Presents

Your thoughtful feline friend will also gladly help out when it’s time for you to wrap presents for holidays, weddings, or birthdays.

Do you have any concerns about your cat’s health or care? Call us, your Georgetown, IN animal clinic, today! We are happy to serve all of your pet’s veterinary care needs.

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Health

Valentine’s Day Pet Hazards

Valentine’s Day is only a few weeks away. Like just about any holiday, it brings with it several pet hazards that you should be aware of. Here, your Floyds Knob, IN vet tells you what to look out for and how to keep your pet safe.

Chocolate

As you probably already know, chocolate is a big no-no for pets. Chocolate of all types—milk, dark, white, semi-sweet, Baker’s, etc.—contains theobromine and caffeine, chemicals that aren’t good for animals. Without treatment, chocolate ingestion can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and worse. Never leave chocolate of any sort out on countertops or tables where pets could reach it.

Candy

Giving candy to that special someone? Make sure your pet doesn’t get their paws on it. Many candies and gums are sweetened with xylitol, an artificial sugar substitute that is highly toxic to animals. It can cause diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, and even coma if a pet doesn’t receive prompt treatment, and it only takes small amounts of xylitol to induce these symptoms.

Alcohol

If you’re going to be including alcoholic beverages in your holiday celebrations, take care to make sure your pet doesn’t imbibe. Wine, liquor, beer, champagne, and even foods cooked with alcohol can prove highly dangerous to pets—alcohol affects pets just like it does humans. The difference is, very small amounts can poison our four-legged friends. Never let your pet access alcohol, and never give an alcoholic beverage to your animal friend on purpose.

Flowers

Lilies are a common flower found in holiday bouquets, and they’re highly toxic to our feline friends. Check through any bouquets you receive—or send to anyone with a cat—for lilies, and remove them if necessary. Also beware of roses; while they are not toxic per say, the sharp thorns found on rose stems can cut a pet’s mouth or puncture the intestine if swallowed.

Candles

Lighting candles to affect a romantic mood? Use caution, as pets can accidentally burn themselves by swiping a tail through an open flame. It’s also possible for pets to knock candles over, spilling hot wax onto the floor or even starting a fire! Try placing candles where pets won’t be able to gain access to them.

We hope you have a fun, happy, and safe Valentine’s Day with your loved one—and your pet! Call your Floyds Knob, IN veterinarian’s office for more helpful holiday safety tips.

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Health

How to Keep Your Pet Safe This Fall

The temperatures are dipping, the leaves are changing… autumn has officially arrived! Make sure that your furry friend stays safe this season with these tips from your Georgetown, IN animal hospital.

Pesticide Products

Pesky insects and wild rodents tend to seek shelter from the lower temperatures inside our homes this time of year. Homeowners often combat the problem with pesticides and rodenticides. Remember that these products are toxic, and can harm our animal companions as well as the pests they’re designed to kill. Place pesticides very carefully, and consider non-toxic, pet-safe alternative options.

Holiday Hazards

Halloween and trick-or-treat arrive at the end of the month, and with them come several hazards. Don’t allow your pet access to the treat bowl, as chocolate treats and many candies can prove very dangerous for our animal companions. If your pet were to get ahold of these, a trip to the veterinary emergency room may be in your future!

Also use caution if you dress your pet up in a costume. These can be adorable, but some pets aren’t comfortable wearing clothes. In addition, costumes can have small pieces that could be choked on or swallowed.

School Supplies

Have your little ones returned to school recently? Don’t leave school supplies like pencils, pens, glue sticks, crayons, markers, or scissors lying about on the floor. Pets could choke on these, and scissors present a cutting hazard. What’s more, glue sticks could potentially poison a pet if they decide to swallow them.

Toxic Mushrooms

It’s not likely that your pet will ingest a toxic mushroom—only a very small percentage of all mushrooms are poisonous—but it’s also not worth taking the risk. Even benign mushrooms can give a pet an upset stomach if they eat too much, and they may have been sprayed with chemicals or fertilizers. Autumn is peak mushroom season, so remove any mushrooms growing in your yard.

Snakes

Autumn is prime-time for snake activity, as they’re preparing to hibernate for the winter and are extra irritable. A pet who accidentally runs across a snake is at risk for being bitten, so keep a close eye on your four-legged friend when outdoors. Ask your veterinarian about common varieties of venomous and non-venomous snakes in your area.

These aren’t the only fall-time hazards out there. If you would like further advice on keeping your family pet safe this season, call your Georgetown, IN vet.