Discover the critical role of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) in shelter environments through our enlightening journey at the Gatineau SPCA. Learn how MSDS, an essential component of product stewardship and occupational safety, empowers workers with safe handling procedures for substances. This piece unravels the importance of MSDS in providing detailed information on toxicity, health effects, and safety measures, ensuring a well-informed approach to using disinfectants and other products in shelters.
Category: Feline Health
Explore crucial aspects of feline reproductive health, emphasizing preventive care and veterinary breakthroughs for breeding cats and kittens. An indispensable resource for breeders dedicated to fostering optimal health and longevity in their cats through knowledgeable health management.
[BLOG] How do you know if this animal is spayed or neutered? Easy ways to check !
Discover the straightforward methods to determine if an animal is spayed or neutered with our insightful guide. In a world where responsible pet ownership and population control are paramount, understanding whether your pet has been surgically altered is crucial. This article provides pet owners with practical advice on identifying spay or neuter status, aimed at ensuring the health and well-being of dogs and cats alike. We cover the significance of spaying/neutering in preventing unwanted litters and delve into easy techniques for verification.
[BLOG] Not only for dogs: CPV-2c
The article sheds light on CPV-2c, a strain initially identified in Italy in 2000, which has since become a significant concern worldwide, including in North America. Notably, CPV-2c doesn't just affect dogs but can also infect cats, causing similar symptoms to those seen in panleukopenia. This revelation emphasizes the importance of awareness and vaccination, as current vaccines and diagnostic tests remain effective against this strain.
[BLOG] A lot of hygiene and a glimpse of contraception: this was our shelter convention !
Key shelter personnel exchanged ideas, aiming for optimal care for animals in their charge. Highlighting the importance of proper sanitation, the introduction of Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide as a potential game-changer in shelter disinfection was discussed. On contraception, while surgical options dominate, promising research into alternatives like GnRH vaccines and gene silencing offers hope for more efficient future solutions, potentially saving time and reducing stress for shelter animals.
[BLOG] Feline reproduction: fibroadenomato….what?!?!
In veterinary circles, fibroadenomatosis in felines is a condition less commonly encountered but crucial for cat breeders to understand. This blog unveils the complexities behind this sex hormone-related disease, primarily influenced by progesterone. With cats being mating-induced ovulators, the risk of fibroadenomatosis escalates, potentially complicating pregnancies. Beyond natural causes, the use of progestins, potent progesterone analogues, as contraceptive measures amplifies this risk. Despite its daunting prospects, effective medical interventions have evolved, offering hope and solutions.
[BLOG] Protecting your cattery: important facts about FIV
This comprehensive guide shines a light on Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), a critical concern for cattery owners. Understanding FIV's impact on cats is crucial for maintaining a healthy and vibrant cattery environment. This blog offers insights into how FIV spreads, its symptoms, and preventive measures to safeguard your feline friends.
[BLOG] Tritrichomonas foetus: the new scourge of feline breeding ?
In the realm of feline breeding, a formidable challenge has emerged, casting a shadow over the health and well-being of cats: Tritrichomonas foetus. This parasitic infection, primarily known for causing severe diarrhea and reproductive issues, has quickly become a significant concern for breeders and cat owners alike.
[BLOG] Cleaning vs Disinfecting ? Why your shelter staff needs to know the difference
Understanding the distinction between cleaning and disinfecting is crucial for shelter staff to maintain a safe and disease-free environment for animals. Cleaning involves removing organic matter such as dirt and feces to achieve physical cleanliness, while disinfecting aims at destroying or inhibiting the growth of disease-causing microorganisms for bacteriological cleanliness. This process is essential as a two-step protocol: first cleaning to remove organic debris and then disinfecting to target the remaining germs.
[BLOG] Shelter Sanitation : apply the “clean to dirty” principle
Managing infectious diseases in animal shelters presents a unique challenge due to the constant influx of new animals with unknown medical histories. The "clean to dirty" principle, borrowed from the food industry, offers a straightforward yet effective strategy to mitigate this risk. By organizing shelter operations to start with the most vulnerable or healthiest animals and move towards those most likely to spread disease, shelters can significantly reduce the risk of outbreaks. This approach not only prioritizes the health and well-being of the animals but also streamlines cleaning efforts, making it a critical practice for any shelter aiming to control infectious diseases effectively.
[BLOG] Cat breeding : what genetics can tell…
Unlock the secrets of cat breeding with a deep dive into genetics, where coat colors and patterns reveal more than just appearances. Understanding the genetic makeup of felines is crucial for breeders aiming to predict and select desirable traits in their cattery. This blog illuminates the complexities of feline genetics, including the fascinating case of calico males, and their implications for health and breeding practices.
DR. EMMANUEL FONTAINE 