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• Proper Disposal of Medical Waste

  Medical waste includes needles, syringes, body parts, bodily fluids, feces and medications among other things. This handout addresses some of the ways such waste can be safely disposed.

• Pruebas de bienestar para gatos

  Contenido en español actualizado.
  Translated from the original English article Wellness Testing for Cats

• Quality of Life at the End of Life for Your Cat

  Quality of life is a way to refer to and discuss the day-to-day life and lifestyle of a cat reaching the end of its life. A quality-of-life scale for cats can help clarify the decisions and anxiety related to your cat's end-of-life care.

• Rabia en gatos

  Contenido en español actualizado.
  Translated from the original English article Rabies in Cats

• Raising Kittens

  Most cats care for their kittens with little need for human intervention; if they do not, then their caregivers need to step in. It is critical to maintain a warm environment and ensure they receive enough milk. Kittens’ weight should be checked daily in the first two weeks and any prolonged crying should be investigated. Feeding can be supplemented with commercial milk replacer if needed. Further feeding and vaccination recommendations are discussed. Contact your veterinarian for specific instructions.

• RAST Testing in Cats

  A RAST test, or radioallergosorbent test, is a blood test that can be used to determine which allergens are causing a pet's allergies. This test is often performed as part of the workup for atopic dermatitis in cats. The results of allergy testing are typically used to develop a hyposensitization plan for your cat, which helps desensitize your cat to allergens. Many cats treated with hyposensitization, formulated on the basis of RAST results, experience a significant reduction in the signs of allergic dermatitis.

• Raw Food Diets in Cats

  Feeding raw food to cats is potentially dangerous - not only to the cat eating the raw food, but also to other pets and humans in the environment, due to the high likelihood of bacterial contamination. Raw food may also not be complete and balanced and could lead to nutrient deficiencies or toxicities. Consuming raw food with bones can lead to life-threatening foreign body obstruction.

• Recognizing the Signs of Illness in Cats

  Cats have evolved to hide signs of illness and pain. This means that in the early stages of illness, often the only thing that a cat owner may notice is that the cat has become quiet and withdrawn. This article outlines some signs of illness you can look for. In general, any sudden change should alert you that your cat needs veterinary attention. If your cat does not seem right, make an appointment see your veterinarian for an examination as soon as possible.

• Reducing Fear of Veterinary Visits for Cats

  For many cats, a visit to the veterinarian can be stressful. Familiarize your cat with being inside a carrier: make the carrier a cozy and pleasant place to be – it is essential for your cat’s safety. Upon arrival at the veterinary office, try to relax and talk calmly to your cat. Bring delicious, favorite treats and a familiar towel that your cat can snuggle in during her examination.

• Road Trips and Car Travel With Your Cat

  A successful road trip with a cat begins long before the day of travel. Teach your cat that the carrier is a great, everyday place to hang out. Take your cat's medical documents with you and be sure your cat wears identification during travel. Take a small supply of the litter your cat's used to and bring along water from home. Consult your veterinarian to create the best travel plan for your cat if she does not travel well.