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Thanksgiving With Kitties

November 15, 2018

Thanksgiving is just a few weeks away. We’re already anticipating relaxing with friends and family over some delicious home-cooked food. However, it’s also important to reflect on the things we are grateful for. Cats would definitely make that list! This can be a dangerous time of year for kitties, though, so you’ll want to take some precautions to keep your furball purring and safe. Here, a Washington DC vet discusses spending Thanksgiving with Fluffy.

Guests

Just like people, cats all have their own unique purrsonalities. Some kitties are bold and friendly, and will spend the day hopping from lap to lap. However, not all cats are that outgoing. Shyer felines may bolt for their favorite hiding place as soon as the doorbell rings. If you have a scaredy-cat, consider putting Fluffy in a quiet back room with food, toys, treats, bedding, and, of course, a litterbox. Your timid pet probably won’t mind sleeping through the festivities.

Food

Fluffy definitely deserves a special Thanksgiving treat! Your feline pal can have some cooked, boneless meat, fish, or poultry, without the skin, bones, or fat. Kitties can also enjoy some canned tuna or chicken in water; sodium-free broth; cat milk; or shredded deli meat. Never give your cat milk; meat on the bone; raw dough, meat, or yeast; grapes, currants, or raisins; or anything that contains chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, garlic, onions, or xylitol. Ask your vet for more information.

Fur-Busting

Before your guests arrive, give Fluffy a good brushing. We also recommend thoroughly dusting and vacuuming your home, and changing your air filters. If your visitors have allergies, set out tissue boxes, and pick up some OTC allergy meds. Don’t forget to change the litterbox!

Hazards

As you may have noticed, kitties have a bit of a knack for getting themselves into mischief. Decorative items, such as candles, potpourri burners, wreaths, garlands, and anything small or sharp, are all dangerous to cats. Fluffy also has a way of getting underfoot. You don’t want your furball getting stepped on, or having her tail caught in the door. Keep a close eye on your cat!

Cuddles

When everyone is gone, spend some time with your kitty, and let her snooze on your lap if she wants. After all, a sleeping cat is the purrfect touch that makes a house into a home!

Happy Thanksgiving! Contact us, your Washington DC vet clinic, anytime!

Poison Prevention Week starts March 20th. This is a very important topic for anyone with pets. There are over 232,000 cases of pet poisonings in the US every year! Our furry friends don't know what is and isn't safe for them, so you'll need to take some precautions to keep your beloved pet safe. A Washington DC vet lists some ways to prevent pet poisoning in this article. Keep Cabinets Locked Many toxic chemicals and household products are stored in cabinets, often underneath sinks. Keeping these locked is a simple step that can prevent tragedy. Keep in mind that your four-legged friend doesn't have to actually eat or drink these substances. Because most animals lick themselves clean, they only need to walk through it or get it spilled on their fur to ingest it. Choose Non-Toxic Plants Plants are one of the most common culprits when it comes to pet poisoning. While there are many that are dangerous to all pets, others are more toxic to some animals than to others. For instance, lilies are extremely dangerous to cats, while Sago palms are a huge risk for dogs. Check the ASPCA site here for a list of safe and unsafe plants. Know The Warning Signs Although the signs of poison ingestion can vary, depending on the pet and the type and amount of substance involved, there are some common red flags to look for. These include vomiting, drooling, lethargy, agitation, restlessness, trembling, collapse, unusual vocalizations, and diarrhea. Pale gums are also a warning sign, as is a rapid heartbeat or shallow breathing. Cats may withdraw, while dogs may pace or whimper. It’s worth noting that while these things can be indicative of many medical issues, they should always constitute a call to the vet. Understand The Dangers It's also important to know what is and isn't poisonous. Some things, such as household chemicals, antifreeze, and rodenticides, are well-known. Others? Not so much. For instance, many people don’t know that a single grape or raisin can be extremely dangerous to dogs. Medication is also a common source of poisoning. Ask your vet for more information. Training This one applies more to dogs, of course. However, consider teaching Fido to Leave It. This simple command could help prevent tragedy! Do you have questions about your pet's health or safety? Contact us, your Washington DC animal clinic, today!

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