A Formidable Foe: FIP in Cats

FIP in catsWhen it comes to diagnosing and treating diseases in our pet patients, there are some that our team at Summeridge Animal Clinic expect a more promising prognosis than others. Sadly, feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a disease that we are loathe to meet.

FIP in cats is a serious disease that often eludes diagnosis and is somewhat unpredictable. It is also a disease for which we are lacking effective treatment options.

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Marijuana Toxicity in Pets

marijuana toxicity in petsWhile many of our readers may be familiar with the Cannabis Act which would result in the legalization of the recreational use of marijuana in Canada, it is important that the well-being of our pets be part of the discussion.  It is necessary to point out that the current legislation could lead to an increase use of cannabis which might pose an increased risk of marijuana toxicity to our pets.

The increased use of cannabis both for recreational and medicinal purposes so far has resulted in an increase in cannabis toxicity cases in pets.  To help protect your pet from toxins associated with marijuana use, the team at Summeridge Animal Clinic has examined some of the reasons why cannabis and pets do not mix.

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Feline Behaviour and Scent Communication

A charcoal colored catSnow leopards spend the majority of their lives alone, but they spray the rugged landscape along the way to send signals to other cats. Not only helpful in locating individuals (like relatives or potential mates during breeding season), their urine helps mark their own distinct territories.

Scent communication is important to many animals. In fact, the domestic cats we know and love answer to similar instincts. Spraying inside the home and around your property may occur, but another important feline behaviour is scent-marking.

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