Category Archives for "Cat Q & A"

0 No Need For Check Ups, Your Fur Baby Will Do Just Fine… So They Say

Many pet parents think checkups are a waste of time and money.

This is because they hear of some pet owners having fur babies for years and never getting sick, even though they never have a checkup!

Those are the lucky ones.

They’re outliers.

There will always be that small percentage of pets that seem to never get sick.

Think about it.

Do you have that uncle or aunt who reached their 80s and 90s while smoking a pack of cigarettes daily?

And they still look like they’re healthy?

Heck, I know of an aunt who espouses smoking.

She smokes at least a pack daily and never gets sick because of it.

She’s in her 80’s and is still very healthy.

But… not everyone can be that fortunate.

She might be one of the lucky ones.

And we never know that she’s sick or suffering some disease related to smoking until it’s too late.

The same goes for our fur babies.

A lot of them may look normal.

They may even act like they’re very healthy.

But you can never be sure; you need to have them checked yearly.

For example, liver and kidney diseases are only detected when a large part of those organs are already damaged.

Some diseases like Heartworm infection may not show signs until it’s too late.

A lot of diseases could have been treated or managed if they were only detected early.

Shoulda, woulda, coulda…

Things could have gone for the better if only we had known earlier.

Like people, our fur babies need to have their annual checkups.

We have to ensure they don’t have any underlying condition we need to handle.

Call us at 0908-896-7113

8896-6386 / 8896-2860 or message us at makatidogandcathospital@gmail.com for that appointment.

We’ll check your furbaby to ensure there’s nothing to worry about!

0 Why You Should Adopt An Adult Fur Baby

Why You Should Adopt An Adult Fur Baby

It can be lots of fun to have a fur baby.

They make great companions.

Loneliness will be a rarity.

It’s proven that pets make us healthier in so many ways.

But…

Would it be easier if we could get an adult dog?

Most likely, they’re mature in temperament.

Destructive puppy behavior is unlikely.

And in addition, wouldn’t it be nice if they’re:

1) Fully vaccinated.

2) Neutered.

What if I tell you there is a way to get a fur baby with all of those above?

In return, you have to sign a contract.

Basically, it says you will love and take care of them.

And you will never give them away!

If you are interested, please send us a message at (Viber) 0908-8967-113 or email us at makatidogandcathospital@gmail.com.

We’ll tell you how to get a fur baby and help save the world!

0 Hey, It’s National Train Your Dog Month!

A lot of people think that only puppies can be trained.

They think teaching your fur baby anything new when they reach a certain age is impossible.

They believe you can’t change their habits when adopting an older pet.

Well,  that’s not true!

Adult dogs have a better attention span.

Adult dogs have more self-control.  

These traits make them easier to train than puppies.

Younger dogs may pick things more quickly, but it is still possible to train older dogs.

Sure, they may be set in their ways, but they can still be taught new things.

The Association of Professional Dog Trainers established National Train Your Dog Month, knowing that dogs can be trained at any age.

People ask, why is it important to train your dog?

Training does the following things for your fur baby:

Builds confidence.

Provides mental stimulation.

Strengthens the human-animal bond.

Training is necessary because dogs need socialization and schooling to become well-behaved companions.

Some activities you can do during Train Your Dog Month are:

Teach your pet a new trick, like rolling over or playing fetch.

Enjoy Furry Fridays by taking your dog for a walk or watching a movie together!

Post on social media your dog training accomplishments and challenges.

You can do a lot more to enjoy this month, focusing on training your fur baby.

But…there are times you feel like just giving up.

You may think that it’s impossible to train your dog to urinate in the proper place, but it doesn’t just occur.

There may be a reason why this isn’t happening.

You may need to have your fur baby checked.

They may have a urinary problem that can be solved by the family veterinarian.

That’s why it’s a great idea to have your pet checked.

Your pet may be experiencing something uncomfortable or painful.

That is why they don’t want to fetch, jump or do anything else.

Give us a call at 0908-896-7113

8896-6386 / 8896-2860 or message us at makatidogandcathospital@gmail.com.

We can help you train your fur baby better!

0 If You Are Someone Who Is Planning To Get A Pet: READ THIS FIRST!

Are you someone who is planning to get a pet?

Well,  I want to tell you that it entails a lot of responsibility.

Getting a puppy is a risky proposition.

You need to spend a lot on vaccinations and dog food.

You have to train your pet, so they don’t become destructive.

You need to socialize them with other puppies and people, so they become friendly.

All of those take a lot of work!

What if I tell you there’s a way to make it easy for you.

It’s through pet adoption.

There are animal-loving groups that rescue abandoned dogs from the streets.

They spend money on their vaccinations, food, and parasite control.

They even take care of their neutering/spaying.

All of those will cost a lot of money!

They even care for them, so they become friends with people and other dogs.

Where do you come in?

You have to promise to give them a good home.

No need to spend for all of what I mentioned above.

You save tons of money.

You give a fur baby a new home.

You get love in return.

If you are interested in giving a fur baby a forever home, call (Viber) 0908-8967-113 or send us a message in our FB Page Makati Dog And Cat Hospital.

—-

Dr. Sixto Carlos, DVM, MS, Diplomate PCCP

Makati Dog and Cat Hospital

0 What Scares Veterinarians

It’s fun to be a veterinarian!

We get to be with cute animals all day.

Kittens are so funny to watch!

You can stare at cuddly puppies the whole day.

This is one of our benefits, although there is a risk here.

We have a higher than usual possible exposure to rabid animals.

I’ve handled quite a handful of pet patients that have rabies.

The furious form is the type of rabies that people are more likely to be familiar with.

Rabid dogs with this type would bite anything!

And I MEAN ANYTHING!

These dogs bite cages, other animals, and even you!

But there is another form that is equally as dangerous.

This is called the “paralytic form.”

The patient is lucid and remains quiet.

The problem here is people are unlikely to think that the patient has rabies.

They become complacent and do risky things like touching the mouth of the patient.

In my practice, we had a case of a pet dog with the paralytic form.

Because of this, nobody thought of the patient having rabies.

Guess what?

When the patient suddenly died, we decided to have it tested.

It turned out that it had RABIES!

Too late!

Five of our hospital staff got exposed to the patient.

Luckily they all had pre-exposure vaccinations for rabies.

They also had post-exposure vaccinations to ensure they didn’t get it.

Although preventive vaccination and post-exposure treatments work, you still get some anxiety.

You keep on thinking that you might get it!

One scary feature of Rabies infection is that it is most likely fatal when you get it!

And our country is considered to be high risk for Rabies.

This is why you should get your pet dogs and cats vaccinated for this deadly disease.

Dogs make up most of the rabies infections of animals in the Philippines.

Cats make up a distant second.

Don’t endanger the lives of your pets.

Keep yourself from getting infected too.

Make sure you get your fur babies vaccinated today!

Send us a message at Makati Dog and Cat Hospital at makatidogandcathospital@gmail.com or call 09088967113 so we can schedule the rabies vaccination of your fur babies.

Make sure you, your family, and your pets are protected!

0 Are You Scared Of Vampires?

Twilight.

Interview With The Vampire.

Buffy.

Vampire Diaries

All the different stories about the legend of Dracula.

A lot of stories have been written about vampires.

People are obsessed with them.

Just check all the books, comics, movies, and TV shows that tell us stories about these bloodsuckers.

There are even documentaries about them.

But did you know that the mythology of vampires may have come from a real-world menace?

This threat to society comes from a virus-caused disease which is Rabies!

If you think about it, many of the peculiarities of vampires in legends are signs caused by rabid animals or people.

Signs like:

• Sensitivity to light
• Biting others
• Hydrophobia or an extreme fear of water

Rabies is a hazardous disease that is present in more than 150 countries!

It can virtually affect all warm-blooded animals, including humans.

Once any susceptible organism gets infected, it is most likely fatal.

According to the WHO, it kills at least 59,000 persons a year.

However, it is believed that this is an underestimation.

As veterinarians, we always think of the possibility of rabies infection on the animals that we handle.

Rabies: Should It Be Given Annually?

Especially in the Philippines, where we are considered a high-risk country for the disease.

We get regular vaccinations against Rabies to protect ourselves.

What about our pets?

Dogs comprise about 98% of the animals infected with Rabies in the Philippines.

Next in line are cats.

If they get infected with the Rabies virus, they will suffer horribly before they die.

In addition, they become dangerous for people and other animals.

That is why you must get ALL of your fur babies vaccinated against this disease.

Not only will you be protecting your pets, but you are also protecting yourself and your family from this horrible threat.

Rabies Prevention Tips: What To Do To Lower The Risk

Call us now at 0908-896-7113/  8896-6386 / 8896-2860 for an appointment so we can give you the protection your pet needs against RABIES!

Be social! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. Share your cute pet photos on our social media accounts and get featured!

Enjoy peace of mind,

Dr. Sixto Carlos, DVM, MS, Diplomate PCCP
Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Serving Pet Parents near Mandaluyong, Makati, and BGC

0 What Should A Pet Owner Do Before Neutering Or Spaying?

What should pet owners do before neutering or spaying their pets?

Responsible pet owners often decide to have their pets spayed or neutered.

Why have your pets desexed? Here’s why

So they call up their veterinarian and set a schedule for their cat or dog to get spayed or neutered. Spaying is for female pets while neutering is for male pets – just in case you still get confused with the terms.

Why Neuter or Spay?

One of the  purposes of this procedure is to prevent unwanted puppies.  Another reason is to prevent  disease conditions like testicular tumors and prostate enlargement  (in Males); pyometra and mammary tumors (for Females).  Desexed pets typically live longer than usual.

After setting everything up, you get yourself and your pet ready for the day.

But wait? What  preparations prior to  surgery should you do for your pet?

Here are the essential tips you need to know before and after your pet gets neutered or spayed:

Before Neutering or Spaying Operation:

Fasting

Like humans, pets need to go on a 12-hour fast before the appointed time. 

What should my dog fast from – just food?

Yes your dog should fast from food but also from water if possible. 

If your dog accidentally ate some food on the day of surgery,  discuss it with the staff. But if your dog ate a full meal on the  operation day,  the best option may be to re-schedule the procedure.. 

You have to understand that full meals can pose a serious concern during surgery. Under anesthesia your pet may throw up  which can lead to breathing problems.

Comfort Care

This means that you have to make your pet as comfortable as possible 12 hours before their appointment, so  they would not think of taking any food or water. Set up their sleeping area to be as cozy as possible and hide the water and food bowl. 

Cuddle up if it makes you and your pet feel better prepared for the operation.

Bathing and Grooming

You can bathe your dog prior to surgery. Have a grooming appointment if you need to, especially if your pet’s fur is long and matted or caked with mud. Remember, your pet will have no bath for at least a few days after operation.

After Neutering or Spaying Operation:

Medications

Pain medicines may be prescribed to your pet after the operation. Do not give any human pain medicines to your dog as this can cause serious problems to your pet. Ask your vet on what you should do after the surgery and what is the safest and most effective medication your dog can take.

Food and Water Monitoring

Food intake should be limited during the  first day post surgery. You have to give food and water gradually to your pet because of the side effects of anesthesia. 

When your dog arrives in your home, let it rest for a few hours. After that, you can offer a little water. An hour after that, you can offer some food. 

If your dog is able to keep  food and water down, you can feed it normally the following day. If your dog vomits, call your veterinarian.

Care of Surgical Site

Surgical sites should be given proper care and monitoring after operation. As a pet owner, you should check for bleeding, swelling, discharges or any other problems in the area. If you observe anything out of the ordinary, please contact your veterinarian. 

Make sure that your pet will not lick or chew the surgical site. Cones can help in preventing your dog from doing any of these.

The incision usually takes 10-14 days to heal fully and is the same time that stitches are removed.

Bathing and Grooming

Your dog will not be allowed to have a bath 10-14 days post operation. Do not let them swim or bathe until the  stitches have been removed. Get clearance from your vet to ensure that it is safe for your dog to do so.

If you have concerns or questions, you can always discuss this with your dog’s veterinarian. Do not assume anything as this can lead to misconceptions and wrong actions. Be open with your vet to understand more about neutering and spaying.

Learn more on Neutering and Spaying here:
Quick Facts Of Neutering and Spaying 

If you are a responsible pet parent you will choose to go to an expert veterinarian.

Contact us at (02) 8896-6386 / 8896-2860 / 0908-896-7113 to set an appointment for your pet’s neutering or spaying.  

Do take note that Makati Dog and Cat Hospital serves you and your pet from 8AM to 3PM, Mondays to Saturdays.

Be social! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. Share your cute pet photos on our social media accounts and get featured!

Enjoy peace of mind,

Dr. Sixto Carlos, DVM, MS
Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Serving Pet Parents near Mandaluyong, Makati, and BGC

0 Not All Pet Tags Are Made The Same

Not All Pet Tags Are Made The Same

Not all pet tags are made the same.  Some are pretty,  some are just okay.  Rarely do you find those that are worth collecting.

MyFamily has produced pet tags since 2010 in Italy.  It is found in almost all continents and is now available in the Philippines at ETC Drugstore.

Each MyFamily pet tag is meticulously manufactured using high quality materials with a beautiful finish.  Each one is pleasing to look at.

From a wide array of designs, for sure several of these you will find delightful.

In addition, you can have your pet’s name and your contact details engraved on each Pet Tag in two minutes – yes, just 2 Minutes!

Contact us at  0977-804-4455 or PM us at ETC Drugstore FB to order your collectible pet tags.

0 Cat Scratch Disease: Are Humans Affected By It?

Cat Scratch disease is actually a disease transmitted to humans from cats.  It is caused by the Bartonella henselae bacteria.

Infection in cats is typically mild. 

Strays are more likely to harbor Bartonella than pet cats.  It also has a predisposition for cats less than a year old.

There is a wide clinical spectrum in cats.  Eye and heart problems, fever, anemia, neurologic problems and lymphadenitis have been observed.

The use of antibiotics is a possible treatment, but may not be necessary. 

While this is not considered as a serious disease in cats, this may be transmitted to people (hence the term zoonotic disease). 

How is Cat Scratch Disease to Humans?

A person can get this if he gets bitten, scratched or licked by a cat with the bacteria Bartonella henselae. 

Swollen lymph nodes may be the only symptom for most people.  More serious cases may cause abdominal pain, loss of appetite, joint pain, fever, weakness and headache.

You have to keep your cat(s) healthy to prevent yourself from getting infected with Cat Scratch Disease.

Fleas play a major role in its transmission between cats. You should always have some ectoparasite preventive used on your pets.

P.S. My parents (who are both veterinarians) and I have assisted on researching information regarding Bartonella.    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32035056/

Get to Know The Infectious Cat Diseases

As a cat owner, it is your responsibility to know the various cat diseases. Know more about these conditions and learn how to protect your cat from these conditions. Here is the list of common cat diseases.

Not sure when is the right time to vaccinate your cat? Click here to find out.

Do you need to have your cat vaccinated? Contact us at our hotlines: (02) 8896-6386 / 8896-2860 / 0908-896-7113 so we can set an appointment. No walk-ins for now.

Do take note that Makati Dog and Cat Hospital serves you and your pet from 8AM to 3PM, Mondays to Saturdays.

Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. Get featured when you share your cute pet photos on our social media accounts!

Enjoy peace of mind,

Dr. Sixto Carlos, DVM, MS
Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Serving Pet Parents near Mandaluyong, Makati, and BGC

0 Common Disease in Cats: Chlamydiasis

Chlamydiasis – what is this?

This is one of the most common causes of conjunctivitis in cats.

Chlamydiasis in cats is caused by a bacteria (Chlamydia felis).

It normally affects the eyes, nose and throat.  May also involve the lungs if left untreated and also has possible joint and genital tract involvement.

The third eyelid may protrude.  The eyes develop watery discharge.  It eventually becomes thicker and becomes yellowish or greenish.

Chlamydia infection is spread by close contact.  It is recommended that if one cat in a home is diagnosed, the others must also be treated.

Most ages of cats may be affected, but kittens and young cats are mostly at risk.

Treatment for Chlamydiasis

Chlamydiasis can be treated with antibiotics. 

You can ask your cat’s vet about this the next time you bring your cat in for a vaccine shot or check up.

If you are a responsible pet parent you will go to an expert veterinarian.

Get to Know The Infectious Cat Diseases

As a cat owner, it is your responsibility to know the various cat diseases. Know more about these conditions and learn how to protect your cat from these conditions. Here is the list of common cat diseases.

Not sure when is the right time to vaccinate your cat? Click here to find out.

Do you need to have your cat vaccinated? Contact us at our hotlines: (02) 8896-6386 / 8896-2860 / 0908-896-7113 so we can set an appointment. No walk-ins for now.

Do take note that Makati Dog and Cat Hospital serves you and your pet from 8AM to 3PM, Mondays to Saturdays.

Be social! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. Share your cute pet photos on our social media accounts and get featured!

Enjoy peace of mind,

Dr. Sixto Carlos, DVM, MS
Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Serving Pet Parents near Mandaluyong, Makati, and BGC