Understanding blood groups in felines is crucial for both pet owners and breeders. This comprehensive guide illuminates the vital aspects of cat blood types and their importance in breeding, transfusions, and overall health. Discover the significance of the AB blood group system in cats, including the rare AB type, and learn how it affects breeding decisions and medical care. We cover essential facts that every cat enthusiast should know, from compatibility during transfusions to the implications for pregnant cats.
Category: Cat Breeding
Dive into the world of cat breeding. This section provides essential insights into selecting mates, understanding feline genetics, and ethical breeding practices. Perfect for breeders at any level aiming to enhance breed standards and contribute positively to the health and diversity of cats.
[BLOG] Hydrogen Peroxide vs Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide: sounds the same, but quite different in the end !
Explore the critical distinctions between hydrogen peroxide and accelerated hydrogen peroxide in veterinary settings, specifically tailored to breeders and pet care professionals. Understanding the efficacy and safety of these solutions is paramount for maintaining optimal health environments for dogs and cats. This blog elucidates the fundamental differences, focusing on their applications in disinfection protocols within breeding facilities and animal care practices. Highlighting the importance of choosing the right disinfectants, we offer insights into how these choices impact the well-being of both newborn and adult animals in kennels and catteries, ensuring a sanitary environment that promotes health and prevents disease.
[BLOG] Kitten season: is there still such a thing?
As springtime approaches, many pet enthusiasts wonder if the concept of "kitten season" still holds true. Traditionally marked by a surge in feline births, this phenomenon impacts animal shelters and rescue organizations significantly, presenting both challenges and opportunities. This blog explores the dynamics of kitten season, emphasizing its implications for cat welfare and the strategies employed by shelters to manage the influx. We highlight the critical role of spaying and neutering in controlling population growth and the importance of supporting local shelters during these peak times.
[BLOG] Ringworm cultures: red does not always mean infected !
Discover the truth behind ringworm cultures in veterinary practice. This insightful blog uncovers the misconception that a red culture medium always signifies infection. With a focus on Dermatophyte Test Medium (DTM) and its correct interpretation, it emphasizes the complexity of diagnosing ringworm in shelters. Misinterpretations can lead to unnecessary treatments, highlighting the need for accurate diagnosis.
[BLOG] Shelter medicine: 27 things shelter staff should know about ringworm (Part II)
In the comprehensive guide, vital insights into managing and preventing ringworm in shelter environments are shared. The post emphasizes the critical role of environmental factors like warmth and humidity in the disease's development, advocating for controlled conditions to prevent outbreaks. Highlighted is the delicate balance of animal hygiene, revealing how excessive bathing can predispose animals to infection by compromising their natural defenses.
[BLOG] Shelter medicine: 27 things shelter staff should know about ringworm (Part I)
Discover essential insights on managing ringworm in animal shelters with our comprehensive guide. Learn key strategies to prevent, identify, and treat this common fungal infection, crucial for shelter staff dedicated to maintaining animal health and welfare. This article highlights the importance of early detection, effective sanitation practices, and tailored treatment plans, ensuring a safe, ringworm-free environment for both cats and dogs.
[BLOG] Feline upper respiratory diseases: 24 things you need to know concerning Feline Herpes Virus (aka FHV-1)
In the world of feline care, upper respiratory diseases pose significant health challenges, with Feline Herpes Virus (FHV-1) standing out as a prevalent cause. This comprehensive blog sheds light on 24 critical aspects of FHV-1, highlighting its nature as an alpha-herpesvirus specific to cats, with no risk to humans. It delves into the virus's modes of transmission, primarily through close contact via ocular, nasal, and oral secretions, and underscores the critical role of sanitation and hygiene in managing outbreaks. The post also addresses the virus's life-long impact on infected cats, including potential latency and stress-induced reactivation, which can lead to widespread shelter outbreaks.
[BLOG] Feline Upper Respiratory Tract Diseases: things to know to better control and prevent these diseases
Understanding Feline Upper Respiratory Tract Diseases is crucial for pet owners and breeders alike. These conditions, often highly contagious among cats, can range from mild to life-threatening. The blog explores symptoms to watch for, including sneezing, nasal discharge, and conjunctivitis, and emphasizes the importance of early detection and veterinary care. Preventative measures, such as vaccination and maintaining a clean environment, play a key role in controlling these diseases. Tailored towards those committed to the health and wellbeing of their cats, this resource provides essential insights into effectively managing and preventing the spread of upper respiratory tract diseases in felines.
[BLOG] MSDS : what the heck ???
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.
[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.