How to Identify Early Signs of Diabetes in Cats

March 14, 2016 by admin

Feline diabetes is a common but complicated medical condition in which a cat’s body is not able to produce or use insulin, resulting in blood sugar imbalance.

Insulin refers to the hormone made in the pancreas, which is then released into the blood cells so that they can change proteins into glucose. Most of the foods that cats eat are broken down into a type of sugar called glucose, which is used by the body for energy. When insulin is not used properly or when there is not enough of it, the liver and muscles will try to get glucose from the body’s blood cells to maintain energy levels. This will wreak havoc to a cat’s bodily functions.

Why You Shouldn’t Diagnose Your Pet Yourself Online

March 7, 2016 by admin

The Internet is a wonderful and handy tool in today’s day and age that serves many purposes. That being said, it can also be quite dangerous, especially when it comes to diagnosing medical conditions for both yourself and your pets.

If you are concerned that your pet is ill or has sustained an injury, it is imperative that you contact your local vet right away and make an appointment. Simply typing in your pet’s symptoms to Google can lead to misdiagnosis and anxiety on your part, which won’t do either of you any good. Even if you think you are overreacting about something regarding your pet, call your vet. Using the Internet to figure out what is wrong with your pup or kitty is a huge problem that could result in you further leaving your pet in pain or discomfort.

How to Foster and Build Your Pet’s Relationship with our Sykesville Vet Staff

February 29, 2016 by admin

At Sykesville Veterinary Clinic, our expert veterinarians Dr. Ellen Colwell and Dr. Linda Reinhardt will work closely with both you and your pet and make their health and overall wellness a top priority. We like to check up on them regularly so that in the event a disease or other medical issue arises, we can give them the appropriate and immediate treatment needed. It’s not only important to establish a relationship between us and you, but also between us and your pet. This will make for less stress and anxiety for everyone.

Practical Tips for Brushing Your Cat’s Teeth at Home

February 22, 2016 by admin

Oral hygiene has a significant effect in your cat’s health. Preventing tartar and plaque buildup has long-term benefits for your feline friend, allowing him or her to live a happy and comfortable life. However, most cats are not too fond of this activity. Take it slowly and consider following these tips for brushing cats’ teeth so you will both find this routine enjoyable and worthwhile.

Help! What Happens if my Dog Eats Chocolate?

February 15, 2016 by admin

We’ve all heard it before: chocolate is poisonous to dogs. While this is a well-known fact, it’s safe to say that most pet owners don’t know why, exactly, chocolate is toxic to our beloved pups or what signs we need to look for.

When it comes to dogs and chocolate, it is important to keep in mind that the hazard of chocolate to your dog will depend on the type of chocolate, the amount consumed, and the size of your dog. If your dog eats enough chocolate that is high in cocoa, it can kill them. We are not saying this to scare you, but to simply make sure you are aware of the dangers associated with dogs and this delicious human treat.

What You Need to Know about Canine Distemper

February 8, 2016 by admin

Canine distemper is one of the most highly infectious diseases in dogs, next to rabies. Said to be related to human measles, this canine virus affects the gastrointestinal, respiratory and central nervous systems of dogs, as well as the nerves in the eyes. The severity of the infection varies depending on the virus strain, the dog’s health condition and immune system, and whether or not a dog has already been vaccinated. Canine distemper protection is a must for all pet dogs.

What to Do if Your Dog Has a Broken Tooth

February 1, 2016 by admin

If you have discovered that your pup has a broken tooth, it is important that you take the proper steps so they can receive the care and attention they need.

How to Tell If Your Dog is Pregnant – The Early Signs, and What to Do if She is

February 1, 2016 by admin

Sure, we all know that a protruding belly and certain behavioral changes are indicative of a pregnant dog, but are you aware of all the signs that point to this? Whether you are intentionally breeding your dog or accidentally let her out of your sight during heat and are concerned she may have come in contact with a male dog, it is important to learn how to tell if your dog is pregnant right from the get-go.

Consider these Ferret Care Factors before Getting One

January 18, 2016 by admin

While others prefer to have a pet cat or dog, perhaps you’d rather have a ferret for company. It would be no surprise to us that you would, since ferrets are curious, playful, loving and social creatures that make wonderful pets and are quite easy to care for. But of course, there are some ferret care factors to consider before you make your final decision in owning one, such as the following.