At the 2014 Society for Theriogenology meeting in Portland, OR, specialists in animal reproduction convened to exchange insights on the latest breakthroughs. This post explores the relevance of these discussions to shelters, emphasizing contraception and population management in canine and feline reproduction. Highlights include a study on penile spines in feral cats and their reproductive adaptations, as well as innovative research on using nicotine as a non-surgical contraception method in dogs and cats
Tag: Newborn Kitten Care
Key advice on caring for newborn kittens, including feeding, warmth, and early socialization.
[BLOG] Sanitation in shelters: why there should be no animal around while cleaning & disinfecting
Ensuring a clean and disease-free environment is crucial for animal shelters. This blog emphasizes the importance of maintaining rigorous sanitation practices during the cleaning and disinfecting process. Highlighting the risks associated with the presence of animals in the vicinity during such activities, it underscores the potential for disease spread and the adverse effects on animal health. By outlining best practices for shelter hygiene, it aims to educate shelter staff and volunteers on effective strategies to minimize health risks for both animals and humans.
[BLOG] Blood groups in feline: 8 facts about [AB]
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.
[BLOG] Neonatology: why I don’t see breast-feeding puppies and kittens as an option Part I
In the realm of neonatology for puppies and kittens, the significance of early nutrition cannot be overstated. While many consider natural feeding by the mother as the ideal option, this blog explores the complexities and challenges that can make breastfeeding not always viable for newborn pets. Addressing critical factors such as maternal health issues, insufficient milk production, and the risk of transmitting infectious diseases, it highlights the necessity of exploring alternative nutritional strategies. With a focus on ensuring the health and development of puppies and kittens, this piece examines the role of puppy and kitten milk replacers as essential tools in neonatal pet care.
[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] 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] 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] Small animal reproduction: my Top 10 predictions for the future !
Exploring the future of small animal reproduction, this insightful blog by Dr. Emmanuel Fontaine unveils the remarkable advancements and potential breakthroughs on the horizon. With a decade of experience, Dr. Fontaine shares his top 10 predictions that promise to reshape canine and feline breeding. From routine feline insemination and innovative semen processing techniques to embryo transfers and stem cell therapy for repairing damaged uteri, the future looks bright. The blog highlights the shift towards more sophisticated reproductive technologies, including in-vitro fertilization and synthetic colostrum for newborns, underscoring a transformative era in small animal reproduction that could bring the science fiction of today into tomorrow's reality.