Pigs were domesticated thousands of years ago. They are farmed for their meat and hides. There are still many wild pigs, like the wild boar, the warthog, and the bushpig. Pigs are found on every continent on Earth except Antarctica.
Names: Pigs are also called hogs or swine. The adult female is called a sow. The adult male is called a boar. A baby is called a piglet.
Anatomy: Pigs vary in color from brown, black, white, to pinkish. Some wild pigs have large tusks, overgrown teeth used for fighting and digging for food.
Diet: Pigs are omnivores . They eat a variety of plants and small animals.
Classification: Class Mammalia, Order Artiodactyla, Family Suidae.
A pig has a snout for a nose, small eyes, and a small tail, which may be curly, kinked, or straight. It has a thick body, short legs, and coarse hair. There are four toes on each foot, with the two large middle toes used for walking.
pigs are omnivores, which means that they consume both plants and animals. Pigs will scavenge and have been known to eat any kind of food, including dead insects, worms, tree bark, rotting carcasses, garbage, and even other pigs. In the wild, they are foraging animals, primarily eating leaves, grasses, roots, fruits and flowers. Occasionally while in captivity, pigs may eat their own young if they become severely stressed. A typical pigs has a large head with a long snout which is strengthened by a special bone called the prenasal bone and by a disk of cartilage in the tip.The snout is used to dig into the soil to find food and is a very sensitive sense organ.
Pigs have a full set of 44 teeth. The canine teeth, called tusks, grow continually and are sharpened by the lowers and uppers rubbing against each other.
Pigs that are allowed to forage may be watched by swineherds. Because of their foraging abilities and excellent sense of smell, they are used to find truffles in many European countries. Domesticated pigs are commonly raised as livestock by farmers for meat , as well as for leather. Their bristly hairs are also used for brushes. Some breeds of pigs, such as the Asian pot-bellied pigs, are kept as pets.
Breeding occurs throughout the year in the tropics, but births peak around rainy seasons. A female pigs can become pregnant at around 8-18 months of age. She will then go into estrus every 21 days if not bred. Male pigs become sexually active at 8-10 months of age. A litter of piglets typically contains between 6 and 12 piglets. After the young are weaned, two or more families may come together until the next mating season.
Pigs do not have functional sweat glands,so pigs cool themselves using water or mud during hot weather. They also use mud as a form of sunscreen to protect their skin from sunburn. Mud also provides protection against flies and parasites.
for:http://www.pigs-house.com
2008年9月17日星期三
2008年9月5日星期五
Protect Your Dog From These Preventable Threats
Owning a dog is one of the most rewarding experiences a person can have in their lifetime, but having a dog is much more than the occasional walk around the block or playing fetch in the yard. There are many other responsibilities that one must consider in order to be a good dog owner. Your dog’s health is a major concern to any good pet owner and in this article we will concentrate on some preventable threats to your pet.
As winter ends and spring starts, so do different types of threats to your dog. Obviously, as the weather starts getting nicer, your pet spends more time outdoors and is more susceptible to the these threats. It is important to be alert for ticks, mosquitoes and micro organisms that spread diseases that are harmful to your dog’s health. Ticks normally live in wooded areas or in tall brush and do not transmit bacteria through the air, but by biting the dog. Some other threats are summarized below:
Lyme disease- is a tick-borne bacterial disease and it can cause lameness, kidney damage and death.
Leptospirosis- this is the #1 cause of acute renal failure, “lepto” is a deadly bacterial disease that is spread by contact with urine from other pets, wildlife and livestock and can be transmitted from dogs to people.
Rabies- is a fatal viral disease transmitted by saliva most often through bite wounds and is a threat to both humans and animals.
Heartworm Disease- is a mosquito-borne disease that is preventable and attacks multiple organs and will cause death if untreated.
As a dog owner, there are many things you can do to minimize the risk to your pet. Brush your dog often and visually inspect your animal especially after an outing in the woods. Additionally, use tick and flea treatments and medications that your veterinarian recommends to kill these harmful pests. Furthermore, your veterinarian can suggest how to protect your pet from lyme disease through vaccination.
There is another important factor in taking care of your dog: twice-a-year wellness exams. You see, dogs age faster than we do and major health changes can occur in a short amount of time. Moreover, your dog is living longer, which increases the chance of potentially serious illnesses during their lifetime.
These wellness exams can help your veterinarian diagnose, treat or prevent problems before they become life threatening. Additionally, these exams allow the veterinarian to discuss nutrition, your dog’s behavior or other concerns you may have.
In return for all this attention, your dog will reciprocate with unconditional love, friendship and affection. Try to educate yourself to protect your dog from these and other harmful threats. If we were to think in terms of finances, what a wonderful return on your investment!
As winter ends and spring starts, so do different types of threats to your dog. Obviously, as the weather starts getting nicer, your pet spends more time outdoors and is more susceptible to the these threats. It is important to be alert for ticks, mosquitoes and micro organisms that spread diseases that are harmful to your dog’s health. Ticks normally live in wooded areas or in tall brush and do not transmit bacteria through the air, but by biting the dog. Some other threats are summarized below:
Lyme disease- is a tick-borne bacterial disease and it can cause lameness, kidney damage and death.
Leptospirosis- this is the #1 cause of acute renal failure, “lepto” is a deadly bacterial disease that is spread by contact with urine from other pets, wildlife and livestock and can be transmitted from dogs to people.
Rabies- is a fatal viral disease transmitted by saliva most often through bite wounds and is a threat to both humans and animals.
Heartworm Disease- is a mosquito-borne disease that is preventable and attacks multiple organs and will cause death if untreated.
As a dog owner, there are many things you can do to minimize the risk to your pet. Brush your dog often and visually inspect your animal especially after an outing in the woods. Additionally, use tick and flea treatments and medications that your veterinarian recommends to kill these harmful pests. Furthermore, your veterinarian can suggest how to protect your pet from lyme disease through vaccination.
There is another important factor in taking care of your dog: twice-a-year wellness exams. You see, dogs age faster than we do and major health changes can occur in a short amount of time. Moreover, your dog is living longer, which increases the chance of potentially serious illnesses during their lifetime.
These wellness exams can help your veterinarian diagnose, treat or prevent problems before they become life threatening. Additionally, these exams allow the veterinarian to discuss nutrition, your dog’s behavior or other concerns you may have.
In return for all this attention, your dog will reciprocate with unconditional love, friendship and affection. Try to educate yourself to protect your dog from these and other harmful threats. If we were to think in terms of finances, what a wonderful return on your investment!
2008年9月1日星期一
Animal lovers are never lonely
Early childhood is an impressionable period of life in which children are often dog lovers. Parents have a great contribution in the building of their children’s character by encouraging them to be animal lovers and allowing them to have a dog as a pet. Parents should encourage their young to become animal lovers because this will mean never to be alone, to always have a friend, to be comforted when sad, to be happy and needed, to learn responsibility and, last but not least, to love. That's what an animal friend teaches a child: the most valuable lesson of all.
Seeing dog lovers in parks, on television, in stores and on the streets, one can realize the benefit of having a pet as company. Having a dog or cat around the house will surely bring animal lovers a lot of smiles. Cuddling, big round eyes sending messages of love, cute fluffy ears or tail moving in signs of joy should make any heart melt. Animal lovers are the ones that feel for these helpless beings. A pet is not an object one buys to keep around the house, but a living thing that communicates and interacts with the persons around it. Animal lovers know that and they appreciate every smile a pet brings on their faces.
Dog lovers know that pets depend and need them more than a human ever will. The animals around the house have to be fed and watered and cleaned constantly, just like a child. They need their masters just like a child needs his mother to survive. Having a pet means having a lot of responsibility and dog lovers sacrifice their time, money and effort to keep their beloved company around them. Animal lovers assume the responsibility towards their pets with pleasure and never regret their efforts, because they do it out of love. In exchange, animal lovers receive even more. Animal lovers are never lonely, are always loved by their pets, they never get disappointed and often receive the comfort that a human could not give them. Not to mention animal lovers won't ever feel nagged by their pets, neglected or left aside. Having an animal for a friend is having a true friend for life.
Another reason to why animal lovers are never lonely is the fact that their sacrifices talk a lot about the kind of persons they are: communicative, generous, not selfish, always around to help their friends in need, loving and attentive. There are many people who would want these qualities in their friends or their lovers, so animal lovers are very appreciated and loved by everyone. Single persons that are dog lovers can easily find company not only in their animal friends, but in their human friends also. Not to mention that dog lovers usually find dog lovers also as their friends, because their passion for the same pets will give them a lot of things in common to talk about. A shared passion (of any kind) will always bring two persons together. Imagine a dog lover going out to walk the dog every day. Who is he most likely going to have as a friend? Will it be his female neighbor that can't stand dog lovers? Or will it be the girl that walks her own dog in the park every morning just like him? Animal lovers, because they love life and its smallest proofs (animals) will never be alone and they will always share their pleasure with those that appreciate the same thing as them.
So if you are looking for company, animal and human, don't forget animal lovers and their pets! They will bring you the soul medicine everyone needs: love.
Seeing dog lovers in parks, on television, in stores and on the streets, one can realize the benefit of having a pet as company. Having a dog or cat around the house will surely bring animal lovers a lot of smiles. Cuddling, big round eyes sending messages of love, cute fluffy ears or tail moving in signs of joy should make any heart melt. Animal lovers are the ones that feel for these helpless beings. A pet is not an object one buys to keep around the house, but a living thing that communicates and interacts with the persons around it. Animal lovers know that and they appreciate every smile a pet brings on their faces.
Dog lovers know that pets depend and need them more than a human ever will. The animals around the house have to be fed and watered and cleaned constantly, just like a child. They need their masters just like a child needs his mother to survive. Having a pet means having a lot of responsibility and dog lovers sacrifice their time, money and effort to keep their beloved company around them. Animal lovers assume the responsibility towards their pets with pleasure and never regret their efforts, because they do it out of love. In exchange, animal lovers receive even more. Animal lovers are never lonely, are always loved by their pets, they never get disappointed and often receive the comfort that a human could not give them. Not to mention animal lovers won't ever feel nagged by their pets, neglected or left aside. Having an animal for a friend is having a true friend for life.
Another reason to why animal lovers are never lonely is the fact that their sacrifices talk a lot about the kind of persons they are: communicative, generous, not selfish, always around to help their friends in need, loving and attentive. There are many people who would want these qualities in their friends or their lovers, so animal lovers are very appreciated and loved by everyone. Single persons that are dog lovers can easily find company not only in their animal friends, but in their human friends also. Not to mention that dog lovers usually find dog lovers also as their friends, because their passion for the same pets will give them a lot of things in common to talk about. A shared passion (of any kind) will always bring two persons together. Imagine a dog lover going out to walk the dog every day. Who is he most likely going to have as a friend? Will it be his female neighbor that can't stand dog lovers? Or will it be the girl that walks her own dog in the park every morning just like him? Animal lovers, because they love life and its smallest proofs (animals) will never be alone and they will always share their pleasure with those that appreciate the same thing as them.
So if you are looking for company, animal and human, don't forget animal lovers and their pets! They will bring you the soul medicine everyone needs: love.
2008年8月24日星期日
Dog Parvovirus Infection - Dog Health Best Tips
A condition known as parvovirus infection is a very painful infection and sometimes even fatal as it results in a lot of suffering and possibly eventual death of your dog. It usually effects puppies or younger dogs and is a very nasty infection.
If you suspect your dog to have this condition you should look out for the following symptoms of parvovirus infection:
1. The puppy will have a loss of appetite and may appear to be very sick or ill
2. It will strain to produce feces and when it does it will only produce very bloody diarrhoea which will probably be mostly blood.
3. The disease infects the dog with almost no warning but deteriorates quickly
4. The dog may have uncontrollable diarrhoea and may also vomit violently
A virus that targets the lining of the intestines is what causes parvovirus infections in dogs. The disease is more common in puppies than it is for older dogs and it usually infects dogs which are under the age of twelve weeks. If an older dog has parvovirus infection it most likely caught it from a much younger puppy.
The infection which is simple but very devastating and painful is contagious and hence should be treated immediately in order to make sure that other puppies or dogs do not get infected. If your dog shows signs of parvovirus infection and you suspect your dog to be infected by this disease it is suggested that you visit the vet as soon as possible in order to make sure that your dog receives timely treatment and avoids eventual death caused by this infection.
As of right now the infection has no known cures and the only way your dog or puppy can survive this infection is by fighting the virus on its own.
When the vet suspects your dog to be infected by this virus he/she may take a blood sample and send it off for further testing and to help the healing process he/she will use a drip line in order to keep the dog or the puppy well hydrated. The dog will also receive antibiotics to help it avoid developing any further bacterial infections while its immune system fights off the parvovirus infection.
Even though in some cases the dog has been reported to have died even after the pet owners best efforts still, in most cases your puppy or dog may have the best chance of surviving if it is taken to the vet as soon as it starts showing signs of this infection or as soon as the pet owner suspects the dog to be infected by it.
If you suspect your dog to have this condition you should look out for the following symptoms of parvovirus infection:
1. The puppy will have a loss of appetite and may appear to be very sick or ill
2. It will strain to produce feces and when it does it will only produce very bloody diarrhoea which will probably be mostly blood.
3. The disease infects the dog with almost no warning but deteriorates quickly
4. The dog may have uncontrollable diarrhoea and may also vomit violently
A virus that targets the lining of the intestines is what causes parvovirus infections in dogs. The disease is more common in puppies than it is for older dogs and it usually infects dogs which are under the age of twelve weeks. If an older dog has parvovirus infection it most likely caught it from a much younger puppy.
The infection which is simple but very devastating and painful is contagious and hence should be treated immediately in order to make sure that other puppies or dogs do not get infected. If your dog shows signs of parvovirus infection and you suspect your dog to be infected by this disease it is suggested that you visit the vet as soon as possible in order to make sure that your dog receives timely treatment and avoids eventual death caused by this infection.
As of right now the infection has no known cures and the only way your dog or puppy can survive this infection is by fighting the virus on its own.
When the vet suspects your dog to be infected by this virus he/she may take a blood sample and send it off for further testing and to help the healing process he/she will use a drip line in order to keep the dog or the puppy well hydrated. The dog will also receive antibiotics to help it avoid developing any further bacterial infections while its immune system fights off the parvovirus infection.
Even though in some cases the dog has been reported to have died even after the pet owners best efforts still, in most cases your puppy or dog may have the best chance of surviving if it is taken to the vet as soon as it starts showing signs of this infection or as soon as the pet owner suspects the dog to be infected by it.
2008年8月19日星期二
Aid Your Pooch To A Good Night Slumber
Dogs undergo sleep disorders in much the same way that we do for reasons that can be traced right within our homes. In this regard, it is very important that dog owners have a keen sense of observation when it comes to a dog's sleeping disorder. No matter how difficult the task may seem to be, keeping a close look at every manifestation of dog's sleep disorder will promise some reward to both pet and its owner.
However, as with all the other problems concerning the behavior and habits of a dog, the solution to the problem does not take effect after a mere 24 hours. It will demand your patience in monitoring your pet's reactions to the activities that you will have it perform. To lessen the difficulty of the task, you must simply do these tasks:
Look out for certain deviations that might have caused your dog to have peculiar sleeping habits. Your dog may be reacting to several situations like a sudden change in its crate or lounge, or in your furniture set-up, a stressful incident, or a house party. Don't forget that dogs are accustomed to repetitive activities or set-ups, and a slight change to these factors will greatly affect its mode of sleeping. Trace the root of the problem and perform corrective measures, such as rearranging the furniture to their original plan that your dog has been accustomed to or putting the dog back in the crate, where it used to take a rest.
Provide your dog with a well-balanced diet. The diet depends on your dog's age. Young pooches generally have a higher calorie intake requirement than older ones. Such a scheme provides pups with essential nutrients to help them grow. On the other hand, older dogs require just the right amount of calories that will support their daily activities.
Keep in mind that the diet will most likely produce positive results when done on scheduled time or earlier than the pet's schedule for sleep. This is because dogs dogs are particularly active after meals. It is not a good idea to feed your dog before bedtime since it will only have so much energy to roam around, bark, and awaken the entire neighborhood.
Give your dog relaxing supplements. Calming products (which are usually taken orally) will do the magic as these will provide relief from restlessness, nervousness, fear, and aggression, which will yield to a sound slumber for both of you.
Have your dog undergo daily exercise. Your dog needs an average of 40 minutes of walking, running, and other exercise a day. If your dog has too much stored energy, it is more likely to be wriggly at night, just when you are having a beautiful dream. Helping your dog to tire itself before bedtime will be ideal, as it will be drained of any excess energy, which can spell sleep disruptions to both of you.
Set a bedtime. Aid your pet to get accustomed to a definite sleeping time. Model your pet's bedtime to the one you observe.
See to it that your pet sleeps in a clean and comfortable place. Make sure that your dog will not slumber on a damp or cold place as it will lead to sleep disturbance. Give comfortable items like blankets or pillows to your dog. Keep in mind that your primary aim is to make your dog safe and comfortable. Dog beds and dog crates will do the trick.
However, as with all the other problems concerning the behavior and habits of a dog, the solution to the problem does not take effect after a mere 24 hours. It will demand your patience in monitoring your pet's reactions to the activities that you will have it perform. To lessen the difficulty of the task, you must simply do these tasks:
Look out for certain deviations that might have caused your dog to have peculiar sleeping habits. Your dog may be reacting to several situations like a sudden change in its crate or lounge, or in your furniture set-up, a stressful incident, or a house party. Don't forget that dogs are accustomed to repetitive activities or set-ups, and a slight change to these factors will greatly affect its mode of sleeping. Trace the root of the problem and perform corrective measures, such as rearranging the furniture to their original plan that your dog has been accustomed to or putting the dog back in the crate, where it used to take a rest.
Provide your dog with a well-balanced diet. The diet depends on your dog's age. Young pooches generally have a higher calorie intake requirement than older ones. Such a scheme provides pups with essential nutrients to help them grow. On the other hand, older dogs require just the right amount of calories that will support their daily activities.
Keep in mind that the diet will most likely produce positive results when done on scheduled time or earlier than the pet's schedule for sleep. This is because dogs dogs are particularly active after meals. It is not a good idea to feed your dog before bedtime since it will only have so much energy to roam around, bark, and awaken the entire neighborhood.
Give your dog relaxing supplements. Calming products (which are usually taken orally) will do the magic as these will provide relief from restlessness, nervousness, fear, and aggression, which will yield to a sound slumber for both of you.
Have your dog undergo daily exercise. Your dog needs an average of 40 minutes of walking, running, and other exercise a day. If your dog has too much stored energy, it is more likely to be wriggly at night, just when you are having a beautiful dream. Helping your dog to tire itself before bedtime will be ideal, as it will be drained of any excess energy, which can spell sleep disruptions to both of you.
Set a bedtime. Aid your pet to get accustomed to a definite sleeping time. Model your pet's bedtime to the one you observe.
See to it that your pet sleeps in a clean and comfortable place. Make sure that your dog will not slumber on a damp or cold place as it will lead to sleep disturbance. Give comfortable items like blankets or pillows to your dog. Keep in mind that your primary aim is to make your dog safe and comfortable. Dog beds and dog crates will do the trick.
2008年8月12日星期二
Dog Training – House Training Your Dog
One of the most confusing and anxiety-ridden areas of dog training is house training. Yet, it is one of the most important, especially for the humans involved.
The best way to understand and find success with house training is to use the dog’s own nature to help you.
Dogs are, by instinct, very clean animals. They would rather not soil any areas where they normally sleep or eat. Dogs are also creatures of habit --- they like to know where they’re supposed to go urinate and defecate. If the dog is taught to eliminate on gravel or concrete, they will tend to look for either of those surfaces to do so. If they’re taught to eliminate on grass or dirt, that’s where they will choose. Use these habits to your advantage.
Setting up the training area
This is the first step. Make sure the area you choose is small and confined. A bathroom works for this, or a place in a kitchen or garage also work well. Remember that crate training works well for puppies or small dogs, but for the larger animals, the crate is too confining.
You need to spend some time with this aspect of the training. You need to play with your dog in this area, and this is also where the dog will be taught to sleep and eat. Put together a special bed. This can be something you make up with items around the house, or you can go to the store and purchase a bed. Don’t worry of your dog eliminates in this area at first. Once they figure out that this is where the sleep and eat, they’ll stop eliminating there.
Once your dog realizes that the bed is for sleeping, you can begin to move it around the house. But, only when you’re there. When you’re not, put the bed back in the training area.
Setting up the toilet area
Now you need to determine where the toilet area is going to be located. Presumably, this will be outside the house. Wherever it is, it has to a place that the dog can go to whenever it needs to go. You need to go there with your dog so you can give the appropriate rewards for good behavior.
Establish a set feeding schedule for your dog. If the dog is in the habit of being fed at certain times, the natural process of elimination will also begin to occur at certain times. Once you learn when those times relate to the eating times, it will become much easier for you to guide the dog to the established toilet area.
Don’t forget to make sure your dog has ready access to the toilet area. That way mistakes aren’t as likely to occur.
Continuing the house training process
Once your dog is in the habit of eliminating in the toilet area and not in the sleeping/eating area, you can begin to extend the training area to the rest of the house. Do this slowly. Start by expanding to one additional room, and then gradually expand into other areas. Don’t expand into new areas until you’re sure your dog has control of its bladder and bowels. At first, do this only when you’re around. If you’re away, then put your dog back in the original training area.
Speeding up the process
If you have to move this process along more quickly, you can do so. Remember to proceed with caution, though. It’s better to go slowly than to have to try to retrain a dog later. If you’re going to try to speed things up, you will have to be there in order to reward your dog for successful eliminations. It is also important not to punish for mistakes. That will only confuse the dog and slow the process even further.
The best way to understand and find success with house training is to use the dog’s own nature to help you.
Dogs are, by instinct, very clean animals. They would rather not soil any areas where they normally sleep or eat. Dogs are also creatures of habit --- they like to know where they’re supposed to go urinate and defecate. If the dog is taught to eliminate on gravel or concrete, they will tend to look for either of those surfaces to do so. If they’re taught to eliminate on grass or dirt, that’s where they will choose. Use these habits to your advantage.
Setting up the training area
This is the first step. Make sure the area you choose is small and confined. A bathroom works for this, or a place in a kitchen or garage also work well. Remember that crate training works well for puppies or small dogs, but for the larger animals, the crate is too confining.
You need to spend some time with this aspect of the training. You need to play with your dog in this area, and this is also where the dog will be taught to sleep and eat. Put together a special bed. This can be something you make up with items around the house, or you can go to the store and purchase a bed. Don’t worry of your dog eliminates in this area at first. Once they figure out that this is where the sleep and eat, they’ll stop eliminating there.
Once your dog realizes that the bed is for sleeping, you can begin to move it around the house. But, only when you’re there. When you’re not, put the bed back in the training area.
Setting up the toilet area
Now you need to determine where the toilet area is going to be located. Presumably, this will be outside the house. Wherever it is, it has to a place that the dog can go to whenever it needs to go. You need to go there with your dog so you can give the appropriate rewards for good behavior.
Establish a set feeding schedule for your dog. If the dog is in the habit of being fed at certain times, the natural process of elimination will also begin to occur at certain times. Once you learn when those times relate to the eating times, it will become much easier for you to guide the dog to the established toilet area.
Don’t forget to make sure your dog has ready access to the toilet area. That way mistakes aren’t as likely to occur.
Continuing the house training process
Once your dog is in the habit of eliminating in the toilet area and not in the sleeping/eating area, you can begin to extend the training area to the rest of the house. Do this slowly. Start by expanding to one additional room, and then gradually expand into other areas. Don’t expand into new areas until you’re sure your dog has control of its bladder and bowels. At first, do this only when you’re around. If you’re away, then put your dog back in the original training area.
Speeding up the process
If you have to move this process along more quickly, you can do so. Remember to proceed with caution, though. It’s better to go slowly than to have to try to retrain a dog later. If you’re going to try to speed things up, you will have to be there in order to reward your dog for successful eliminations. It is also important not to punish for mistakes. That will only confuse the dog and slow the process even further.
2008年8月11日星期一
Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Cats
Chronic cases of diarrhea in cats are a familiar headache for many veterinarians. Symptoms can wax and wane over a period of time, which can complicate the veterinarians assessment of the response to treatment in some cases. Many, though not all of these cats, will have inflammatory bowel disease (IDB). This article will focus on how a veterinarian is able to diagnose IBD, and what the treatment options are.
There are many possible underlying causes when a cat presents with vomiting, diarrhea or weight loss:
1. Parasites (worms)
2. Viral disease (Coronavirus, Leukaemia virus)
3. Bacteria (Salmonella, Campylobacter)
4. Protozoa (Giardia, Tritrichomonas)
5. Dietary (food intolerance, food allergy)
6. Cancer (lymphoma, adenocarcinoma)
7. Inflammatory bowel disease
8. Hormonal or metabolic (hyperthyroidism, kidney failure)
9. Drug or toxin induced
10. Motility disorders
The veterinarian should take a full history from the owner, to avoid spending time and money on unnecessary testing. Factors to be considered are age, diet, appetite, worming history, weight change and the nature of the vomiting or diarrhea. It is important to differentiate vomiting from regurgitation, which is usually an esophageal problem, and to differentiate small intestinal diarrhea from large intestinal diarrhea by the frequency and consistency of the feces.
The veterinarian will then carry out a full clinical examination, before embarking on a basic approach to the diagnosis as follows:
1. Blood and urine tests to rule out disease elsewhere in the body which has a knock on effect on the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Bacterial culture of the feces to rule out Salmonella & Campylobacter
3. Parasite check on the feces to rule out worms
4. Xrays to rule out an obstruction by a foreign body or a tumor
5. Ultrasound examination of the abdomen to measure gut wall thickness
6. Bland prescription diet for 4-6 weeks (e.g. Hills Z/D, Royal Canin Sensitivity Control)
7. Intestinal biopsies via endoscopy or surgery.
IBD is a diagnosis of exclusion, so all of the differentials previously mentioned must be ruled out in order to make the diagnosis.
What is inflammatory bowel disease?
IBD is a term used to describe the inflammation of one of the layers in the intestinal wall. This swelling of the gut wall may occur with many other intestinal diseases, but when no cause of the inflammation is found after doing thorough testing as described above, the condition is described as idiopathic IBD (essentially, IBD of unknown cause). IBD is thought to be an overreaction to bacteria or dietary ingredients within the gut.
Are certain types of cats affected more than others?
Any age of cat can be affected, and pedigree breeds may be more commonly affected than domestic shorthair cats.
What are the treatment options once IBD has been diagnosed?
DIET
Many cats can be managed by diet alone in the long term. Diets can be hypoallergenic, high fiber or low residue. Sometimes all three of these types of food need to be trialed before the most effective one is selected. Cats are often resistant to dietary trials, and this is the main reason why many cats are given drugs to treat their IBD, the cat will just not eat the specific diet.
Hypoallergenic foods usually contain a new protein source that the cat has not encountered before such as capelin & tapioca, duck, venison or hydrolyzed protein. Diets high in fiber are recommended for colonic disease.
DRUGS
Drugs are a last resort, if the cat is still showing symptoms despite various food trials or if the cat refuses to eat the prescription diet.
Options are:
1. Anti inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs
Prednisolone, a corticosteroid given at 2-4mg/kg, is the most effective drug.
2. Budesonide
This is also a steroid, with fewer side effects on the rest of the body but it is unlicensed.
3. Chlorambucil
Sometimes given in addition to a steroid if the steroid alone working.
4. Metronidazole
This reduces the number of bacteria in the gut, so theoretically will reduce the triggering factor for the inflammation.
5. Cyclosporine
Normally used in dogs, this modifies the immune system. It has only been tried in a small number of cats, with mixed results.
There are many possible underlying causes when a cat presents with vomiting, diarrhea or weight loss:
1. Parasites (worms)
2. Viral disease (Coronavirus, Leukaemia virus)
3. Bacteria (Salmonella, Campylobacter)
4. Protozoa (Giardia, Tritrichomonas)
5. Dietary (food intolerance, food allergy)
6. Cancer (lymphoma, adenocarcinoma)
7. Inflammatory bowel disease
8. Hormonal or metabolic (hyperthyroidism, kidney failure)
9. Drug or toxin induced
10. Motility disorders
The veterinarian should take a full history from the owner, to avoid spending time and money on unnecessary testing. Factors to be considered are age, diet, appetite, worming history, weight change and the nature of the vomiting or diarrhea. It is important to differentiate vomiting from regurgitation, which is usually an esophageal problem, and to differentiate small intestinal diarrhea from large intestinal diarrhea by the frequency and consistency of the feces.
The veterinarian will then carry out a full clinical examination, before embarking on a basic approach to the diagnosis as follows:
1. Blood and urine tests to rule out disease elsewhere in the body which has a knock on effect on the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Bacterial culture of the feces to rule out Salmonella & Campylobacter
3. Parasite check on the feces to rule out worms
4. Xrays to rule out an obstruction by a foreign body or a tumor
5. Ultrasound examination of the abdomen to measure gut wall thickness
6. Bland prescription diet for 4-6 weeks (e.g. Hills Z/D, Royal Canin Sensitivity Control)
7. Intestinal biopsies via endoscopy or surgery.
IBD is a diagnosis of exclusion, so all of the differentials previously mentioned must be ruled out in order to make the diagnosis.
What is inflammatory bowel disease?
IBD is a term used to describe the inflammation of one of the layers in the intestinal wall. This swelling of the gut wall may occur with many other intestinal diseases, but when no cause of the inflammation is found after doing thorough testing as described above, the condition is described as idiopathic IBD (essentially, IBD of unknown cause). IBD is thought to be an overreaction to bacteria or dietary ingredients within the gut.
Are certain types of cats affected more than others?
Any age of cat can be affected, and pedigree breeds may be more commonly affected than domestic shorthair cats.
What are the treatment options once IBD has been diagnosed?
DIET
Many cats can be managed by diet alone in the long term. Diets can be hypoallergenic, high fiber or low residue. Sometimes all three of these types of food need to be trialed before the most effective one is selected. Cats are often resistant to dietary trials, and this is the main reason why many cats are given drugs to treat their IBD, the cat will just not eat the specific diet.
Hypoallergenic foods usually contain a new protein source that the cat has not encountered before such as capelin & tapioca, duck, venison or hydrolyzed protein. Diets high in fiber are recommended for colonic disease.
DRUGS
Drugs are a last resort, if the cat is still showing symptoms despite various food trials or if the cat refuses to eat the prescription diet.
Options are:
1. Anti inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs
Prednisolone, a corticosteroid given at 2-4mg/kg, is the most effective drug.
2. Budesonide
This is also a steroid, with fewer side effects on the rest of the body but it is unlicensed.
3. Chlorambucil
Sometimes given in addition to a steroid if the steroid alone working.
4. Metronidazole
This reduces the number of bacteria in the gut, so theoretically will reduce the triggering factor for the inflammation.
5. Cyclosporine
Normally used in dogs, this modifies the immune system. It has only been tried in a small number of cats, with mixed results.
2008年8月7日星期四
Pekingese Puppy And Dog Information
The Pekingese is a friendly, independent, low activity lap dog that will do well in an apartment or small house. They are very affectionate but still make good watch dogs. They can be wary of other dogs so they need to be extensively socialized early. They like older children but may not be happy with loud young children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Pekingese is 6 to 9 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 8 to 10 pounds. Under 6 pounds is a tea cup or sleeve Pekingese and between 6 and 8 pounds is a mini.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Pekingese is no exception. Be on the look out for kidney stones, breathing problems, easily damaged eyes, and the danger of corneal ulcers. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Pekingese has a long, coarse and straight coat with a soft, thick undercoat. They should be brushed daily. Also eyes and ears need to be cleaned and checked daily. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
*Life Span. The Pekingese can live between 13 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Pekingese come from China where they were the national sacred dog. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1915.
Some Registries:
*Pekingese Club of America
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 2 to 4 Pekingese puppies
Category: Toy Group
Terms To Describe: Intelligent, dignified, compact, direct, independent, courage, self-esteem, brave, sensitive, affectionate, snobbish, self-centered
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Very Good watch dog.
Learn very fast.
Great lap dog.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Very poor guard dog.
Like to be pampered.
Can be an obedience problem.
Can be a barker.
Strong willed.
Can be difficult to housebreak.
*Other Names Known By: Little Lion Dog, Sleeve Dog, Sun Dog, Peke, Imperial Dog of China
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Pekingese is 6 to 9 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 8 to 10 pounds. Under 6 pounds is a tea cup or sleeve Pekingese and between 6 and 8 pounds is a mini.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Pekingese is no exception. Be on the look out for kidney stones, breathing problems, easily damaged eyes, and the danger of corneal ulcers. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Pekingese has a long, coarse and straight coat with a soft, thick undercoat. They should be brushed daily. Also eyes and ears need to be cleaned and checked daily. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
*Life Span. The Pekingese can live between 13 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Pekingese come from China where they were the national sacred dog. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1915.
Some Registries:
*Pekingese Club of America
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 2 to 4 Pekingese puppies
Category: Toy Group
Terms To Describe: Intelligent, dignified, compact, direct, independent, courage, self-esteem, brave, sensitive, affectionate, snobbish, self-centered
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Very Good watch dog.
Learn very fast.
Great lap dog.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Very poor guard dog.
Like to be pampered.
Can be an obedience problem.
Can be a barker.
Strong willed.
Can be difficult to housebreak.
*Other Names Known By: Little Lion Dog, Sleeve Dog, Sun Dog, Peke, Imperial Dog of China
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
订阅：
博文 (Atom)