Anesthesia-Free Pet Dental is Riskier Than You Think

When we have our pet’s teeth cleaned, it's because we want to do the very best for them. We want a healthy pet that lives a long and happy life. You might have heard of anesthesia-free dental cleanings at pet stores, a groomer, or even some veterinary professionals. This is a service that is often less expensive and is seen as a risk-free alternative that improves our pet’s dental health. We in the veterinary field refer to this as "non-anesthesia dental scaling" and, quite frankly, we find it to be an unsafe dental procedure.

Pets and the Novel Coronavirus

When the current outbreak of novel coronavirus disease, or COVID-19, first came to light in December 2019, researchers indicated that animals were the likely source of the virus. So people are naturally asking, "Can my pet contract and transmit this virus?" That question has become even more valid after one dog - the pet of an infected owner in Hong Kong - recently tested "weak positive" for the virus.

Expecting a Baby? What You Need to Know If You Have a Dog

For many expectant parents, their first baby was a fur baby. Your dog has gotten used to having all of Mom's and Dad’s attention, and a shift in that attention can mean stress for everyone. Even before the human baby arrives, your dog will sense change is coming, from the physical changes to Mom to changes around the house such as new furniture and strange new baby paraphernalia. Your pup can even sense the excitement and nervousness you may be feeling. The key to having your dog welcome the baby as its new best friend is in the preparation.

How Should I Introduce My New Kitten to Their New Environment?

Cats are naturally inclined to investigate their new surroundings. We in the veterinary field suggest that their area of exploration be limited initially so that these natural tendencies do not create an overwhelming task. After confining your new kitten to one area for the first few days, slowly allow your kitty to access other areas of the home.

Food, Plants, and Household Items That Can Be Harmful to Cats

The various food items that are toxic or potentially toxic to dogs seem to get a lot of air time (we’re looking at you, chocolate and avocados), but we don’t seem to hear as much about what can cause harm in cats. And the worrisome thing is that the list is quite a bit longer as - in addition to certain foods - drugs, plants, and other items can be very dangerous to cats.

Signs and Symptoms of Pain in Both Cats and Dogs

There’s a reason that memes about the differences between cats and dogs abound. The stereotypes do tend to be rooted in truth. Cats have a reputation for being a bit aloof and stoic, while dogs are seen as the lumbering, goofy guys who slobber all over their owners when they return from running a 10-minute errand. And while there are plenty of exceptions to both those rules, the ideas tend to hold true when it comes to them exhibiting signs of pain.

How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth

Establishing an at home dental care routine is an important part of your dog’s overall health. You would never think to go days without brushing your own teeth, and it’s no different for your pets. Here at Metropolitan Veterinary Center we recommend brushing your dog’s teeth daily, but a great goal is at least three times a week.

Matting in Cats

Matted fur is a condition that occurs mostly in longhaired cats when their fur becomes knotted and entangled. There are several reasons this can happen. When a cat sheds their undercoat, the fur can become caught in the top coat. If a cat’s fur becomes dirty or oily, it can also become entwined and matted.

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