Cat Health Guide Video and Audio Podcast Cathy Doggins

Cat skin allergies explained by Dr. Patrick McHale DVM on behalf of the Cat Health guide. When a Veterinarian examines an itchy cat, we first check for a flea problem. If we find fleas, we diagnose flea allergy dermatitis. Today's flea preventatives do a good job of preventing fleas. If there are no fleas, a cat could be allergic to inhaled allergens or a food allergy. Believe it or not, cats can even be allergic to fish. If we can't figure out what is causing the problem, their are hypoallergenic diets that can be tried. Visit the Cat Health Guide for more information on feline skin allergies.

Help for treating a cat urinary tract infrection from Dr. Patrick McHale DVM on behalf of the Cat Health Guide. Treatment starts with the owner who can encourage the cat to drink as much water as they can and a litter box that is kept clean. If the cat is reluctant to use the litter box there is an increased change that there is a urinary tract infection. The Dr. does not recommend dietary change unitl a problem is identified such as crystals in the urine. A veterinarian will do a test called a urinalysis to determine the presence of white blood cells and other factors which can indicate a problem. One of the biggest things they look for are crystals in the urine, which is one of the best indicators of what is really going on. The crystals themselves are sharp and jagged and can cause irritation. Crystals formation is often a byproduct of a particular type of diet. Based on the type and shape of the crystals, a veterinarian can suggest dietary changes that can help prevent the cystitis from happening again. A lower percentage of males than females are affected, but when it does occur in males it can be quite dangerous since where the urine exists in a male is narrower. Crystals and other debris can cause a blockage which is very painful and life threatening. With that they need to be hospitalized and catheterized.

Like people, cat eye infections are common. In this video from the Cat Health Guide, Dr. Patrick McHale suggests that when owners call with any feline eye poblem, they are encouraged to visit the office as soon as possible. If the vet finds any scratches on the cornea, he or she can determine what is going on with the use of a test called a corneal stain. If this is not the case, with a physical exam the Vet can usually tell what is going on. Most cat eye problems are uncomplicated bacterial infections that can be treated with topical eye ointments or drops. There are some other uncomplciated things that can manifest in the eye and a good physical exam will help to determine the cause of the cat eye condition.