Our cats are beloved members of our families, living longer and healthier lives than ever before. It’s important to realize that with longer lifespans, veterinarians and pet owners are seeing age-related changes in our feline family members, including cognitive changes.

What Is Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats?

Feline cognitive dysfunction is also referred to as kitty dementia. Cognitive dysfunction is a gradual change that happens over an extended period. Rapid changes may have a different underlying cause.

Typically, brain and cognitive changes occur in senior cats, with them often at least 10 to 15 years old. Cats of any breed can develop cognitive dysfunction.

What Are the Signs of Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats?

Signs of cognitive dysfunction vary between cats, with some showing only one or two signs that are difficult to detect and others with significantly more. Some of the signs to watch for include:

There’s a process in pets and people with cognitive dysfunction that tends to be called sundowning. It refers to the fact that some animals and people show more signs of cognitive changes later in the day, like after the sun goes down.

What Are the Causes of Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats?

The main thought behind why cognitive dysfunction develops in cats is the presence of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. The protein accumulates in the brain, eventually slowing blood flow to parts of the brain, which inevitably leads to neuronal cell death. Changes that we associate with cognitive dysfunction can also have a root in other health conditions.

Some examples include:

Diagnosing Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats

Diagnosing cognitive dysfunction is challenging in pets. In cats, your veterinarian will want to perform a thorough physical exam, checking for discomfort from dental pain or arthritis, ocular changes, and even skin changes that could suggest anxiety.

They will likely recommend several diagnostic tests because there are several things to rule out:

Your veterinarian may refer you to a neurologist to perform an MRI to look for brain changes. They’ll likely also perform a spinal tap to check for infections.

How Do I Care for a Cat With Cognitive Dysfunction?

First things first, your vet will want to treat any underlying health conditions that could be contributing to the appearance of cognitive dysfunction. The veterinarian may recommend dental cleaning and extractions to treat diseased teeth. Hyperthyroidism can be treated with methimazole.

Consider a medication like Solensia as a monthly injection for arthritis pain in cats. Gabapentin is commonly prescribed for both anxiety and neurogenic pain.

You can also try different litter pans for your cat, such as ones with a lower lip, so they don’t have to step as high if they’re uncomfortable.

Diets high in vitamin E and antioxidants may have brain health benefits and slow the progression of cognitive dysfunction. Other supplements that might be beneficial include:

Talk to your veterinarian about melatonin to help your cat sleep at night.

Don’t make sudden changes within the house. If you have to move furniture, try to navigate your cat around the new locations so they learn where everything is, especially if they have vision changes.

Consider not bringing new pets into the environment, which could stress your cat more.

Enrichment is beneficial for these kitties. You can put food in a puzzle toy or treat dispenser so your cat can manipulate it to get the kibble out.

Pheromone products, like Feliway, help cats have less stress or anxiety. Your veterinarian may prescribe a behavioral modifying medication, such as fluoxetine or amitriptyline.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does a cat live with dementia?

Cats can live several years with dementia, and it doesn’t have to impact their lifespan at all. The most significant issues are managing any underlying health problems to keep your cat comfortable and what you can handle. Some people have issues if a cat is waking them up all night. Significant disruptions within the human-animal bond could mean it’s time to consider euthanasia.

How can I improve my cat’s quality of life with dementia?

You can try a few things to keep your cat’s quality of life at an acceptable level:

Conclusion

Cognitive dysfunction is a severe condition affecting cats that can drastically impact you and your cat’s quality of life. Work with your vet to try and pinpoint underlying causes that may be treatable, and above all, be patient with your kitty. This is scary for them as well, and they will need your support.

See Also: 

• Feline Cognitive Decline: Vet-Reviewed Signs, Diagnosis & Treatment
• Solensia for Cats: Vet-Reviewed Uses & Effectiveness

Featured Image Credit; 毛 祥, Unsplash

The post Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats (CDS): Causes, Signs & Treatment (Vet Answer) by Dr. Samantha Devine DVM (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

It’s natural to want to offer your kitty something from your garden, but how do you know what is safe or potentially dangerous for your feline friends? Let’s look at some of the herbs you may have access to that you could let your cat around and some that should be avoided.

An Important Note About Herbs

Even if an herb is considered “safe” for your cat, it could still cause issues like gastrointestinal upset in large quantities. Talk to your veterinarian about anything you’re considering giving your cat because cats with allergies or specific health issues could be more likely to have side effects.

It’s also important to understand that we don’t know all about how herbs can affect our cats or their potential benefits. Also, just because a product claims to have certain benefits doesn’t mean it will work for your cat.

The 10 Herbs That Are Safe for Cats

1. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Many cats love catnip. You might have even given it to your cat and watched them roll around. It can be an effective attractant, helping you get your cat used to items in the house like a scratching pad or litter box.

Catnip can be grown indoors or outdoors. Interestingly, one study¹ found that cats rubbing against plants like catnip and silver bone protected them from mosquitoes.

2. Cat Grass

Cat grass is often a combination of safe grasses for kitties to munch on or roll around. It is usually a single population or a combination of barley, oats, wheat, or rye. These grasses are generally grown indoors, so they don’t contain pesticides or other chemicals that could make your cat sick.

Cat grass can be beneficial to your cat for several reasons. It can help move material through your cat’s gut and contains folic acid. Folic acid is especially important in biochemical reactions within your cat’s body, such as DNA synthesis and even the production of red blood cells.

3. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

According to the ASPCA, an excellent resource for checking if plants are toxic, basil is non-toxic for cats and dogs. That means you shouldn’t have anything to worry about if your cat knocks over your basil plant or chomps on a few leaves. Your cat isn’t likely to get major benefits from eating basil, but they can get some micronutrients, including folic acid.

4. Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis)

Valerian root is safe for cats to consume because it has a wide margin of safety. Like in people, it has calming properties. You can find it in a range of calming products for cats.

5. Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Milk thistle, or silymarin, is a commonly recommended supplement for cats and dogs and is considered safe. One of the more commonly recommended supplements in veterinary practices is a milk thistle combination product, branded under several names such as Denamarin or Denosyl. Your veterinarian may recommend this supplement if your cat has evidence of liver changes on blood work because it may support liver health and may improve your cat’s elevated liver enzyme values.

6. Echinacea (Echinacea)

While there are limited studies on using echinacea in animals, it is a safe and well-tolerated supplement. It may benefit your pet’s immune system and reduce symptoms associated with upper respiratory infections, but that information is primarily based on studies in people.

7. Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice root appears safe for pets and has been touted for its numerous health benefits, including digestive health. A main ingredient in licorice root is glycyrrhizic acid. This compound may have significant potential in several aspects, as it appears to be:

8. Dandelion (Taraxacum)

Dandelions have long been a popular plant cultivated for medicinal purposes, even though many people consider them a weed. There are a variety of species of dandelions, but they all appear safe for cats. If you haven’t treated the yard with fertilizers, pesticides, or other hazardous chemicals, these plants are safe for your feline friends to eat outside.

9. Calendula (Calendula)

Calendula has many names, the most common of which is the common marigold. Marigolds are popular as companion plants to help keep pests away from vegetables like tomatoes, so you probably have some in your garden already. They’re not considered toxic for cats or dogs, so feel free to grow some in your kitty’s herb garden.

10. Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)

Marshmallow root is safe for cats and may provide various potential health benefits. It can coat irritated tissues and has antibacterial activity. In addition to helping with inflammation, it may also help regulate your pet’s blood sugar.

Herbs and Plants to Avoid

Some herbs can be incredibly toxic for your cat and have different side effects. Avoid planting these in your garden if your cat has access to the outside, and keep them out of your cat’s reach in the house to keep your feline family member safe.

Mint (Mentha species)

Mint contains essential oils that, while often beneficial for people, are unsafe for cats. According to the ASPCA’s toxic plants list, mint can cause vomiting and diarrhea, particularly if your cat eats a lot of this herb.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender is classified as toxic to cats (as well as dogs and horses). While lovely and fragrant, this plant can cause gastrointestinal issues in cats, ranging from inappetence to vomiting.

Allium Species (Allium)

Garlic, onions, and chives belong to the same plant family, as they are Allium species. These plants can cause mild to significant gastrointestinal signs, including vomiting. What’s particularly scary is that in cats and dogs, they can damage red blood cells and lead to hemolytic anemia, which could be life-threatening. If there’s the possibility that your cat could’ve gotten into garlic, onions, or chives, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Conclusion

Numerous plants are safe for cats to be around, and just as many, if not more, have the potential to be toxic. Before you bring any plants into the house or chop up some herbs to add to your kitty’s dinner, ensure they aren’t harmful. Your veterinarian is an excellent source of information to see if supplements or herbal remedies might help your cat, especially as some can interfere with more traditional pharmaceuticals.

• See also: Herbs for Cats That Improve Health & Are Feline Friendly (Vet Answer)

Featured Image Credit: Georgia Evans, Shutterstock

The post 10 Herbs That Are Safe for Cats (& Ones to Avoid) Our Vet Answers by Dr. Samantha Devine DVM (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

You adopted your cat from a shelter, and she was already spayed. Now, several years later, she yowls and acts like she could be in heat, but that couldn’t be possible, right?

You bring it up to your vet during your cat’s semi-annual physical exam, and they suggest that your cat could have ovarian remnant syndrome. Let’s dive into what that could mean and what to do for your cat.

What Is Ovarian Remnant Syndrome?

Ovarian remnant syndrome is a condition where there is still some ovarian tissue left in the abdomen after a vet has spayed your cat. This condition can also occur in dogs.

You might notice that your cat is showing signs consistent with being in heat or estrus. While they can’t get pregnant, affected cats may be attracted to males. Your veterinarian will examine your cat and suggest specific tests to confirm a diagnosis of a retained ovarian remnant.

Typically, this condition occurs because a piece or an entire ovary is left within your cat’s abdomen during the spay procedure. Some cats can have ectopic ovarian tissue, which is ovarian tissue in an abnormal place within the body.

What Are the Signs of Ovarian Remnant Syndrome in Cats?

Because cats with retained ovarian tissue experience hormone cycles, they will show signs similar to an unspayed female. Interestingly, it can take years for a cat to show signs of a retained ovarian remnant. According to the Animal Surgical Center of Michigan, affected cats will show signs of a heat cycle an average of 15.5 months after spaying. In addition, roughly 17% of spay complications involve ovarian remnants.

Common signs of a retained ovary are bloody discharge from your cat’s vulva and an enlarged or swollen vulva. Because cats are avid groomers, you may not see either of these signs in your cat.

Another sign of estrus in cats is increased vocalization. Your ordinarily quiet cat may yowl continuously. They can also be increasingly restless. If you have an intact, unneutered male cat, your female may allow or encourage copulation, but they will not be able to get pregnant.

Secondary to hormone changes, your cat’s mammary glands and nipples may enlarge.

What Are the Causes of Ovarian Remnant Syndrome in Cats?

The most common cause of ovarian remnant syndrome in pets is surgical error. The surgeon leaves a portion of the ovary remaining after surgical removal of the ovaries during a spay. This complication may be a little more common in cats than dogs because it can be harder to visualize the whole ovary as it’s harder to break down the proper ligament in cats than in dogs.

Another potential cause is ectopic ovarian tissue. This cause relates to ovarian tissue not being located in a normal position in your cat’s abdomen. Instead of its usual location within the ovary, some ectopic tissue can be found in places like the broad ligament. If your veterinarian doesn’t detect this ectopic tissue during surgery, it gets left behind and becomes an ovarian remnant.

The remaining tissue becomes hypertrophied after a while and continues to secrete reproductive hormones, leading to signs of estrus.

You do need to be careful about certain medications because they can also mimic your cat having an ovarian remnant. If you use a topical estrogen cream and your cat can touch or lick it off, they can present like your cat is having a heat cycle.

Diagnosing Ovarian Remnant Syndrome in Cats

Your veterinarian may have a strong suspicion that your cat has ovarian remnant syndrome, but it should be confirmed through testing before any intervention.

First, ensure there’s no chance that anyone has exposed your cat to topical estrogen or progesterone.

Your veterinarian may perform vaginal cytology to look for cellular changes consistent with a heat cycle, most notably cornified vaginal epithelial cells.

The best support for ovarian remnant syndrome is using two hormone tests.

How Do I Care for a Cat With Ovarian Remnant Syndrome?

Unfortunately, if your cat has ovarian remnant syndrome, they’ll need surgery to remove the remaining ovarian tissue. Some veterinarians can perform this surgery laparoscopically, where your vet will make a series of small incisions and use a camera to identify the tissue.

Sometimes, your veterinarian will perform an exploratory surgery to identify the retained tissue. The procedure is done the same way as your cat’s initial spay.

After surgery comes the hard part: keeping your cat quiet and calm for about 10 days. If you have a very active kitty, your veterinarian might prescribe sedatives to keep them calm.

Gabapentin may be used as a pain medication and a mild sedative. They’ll also generally receive pain-relieving anti-inflammatory medication, such as Onsior (robenacoxib).

As hard as it might be, your cat should wear an Elizabethan collar (e-collar, for short). This usually rigid “cone of shame” can help keep your cat from licking or chewing at their incision, which could cause it to become inflamed, infected, or even reopen. Some cats do well with a bodysuit, so talk to your vet about what option might work best for your cat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How common is ovarian remnant syndrome in cats?

Ovarian remnant syndrome is not a common occurrence after a spay, but it does appear to be more common in cats than dogs. Of post-ovariohysterectomy complications, less than 20% are retained in ovarian tissue.

One study looked at pre-surgical variables to see if anything was common to reviewed cases. The age of the pet and its breed were not significant factors. Interestingly, even obesity did not increase the risk of a cat having ovarian tissue left behind.

Can ovarian remnants become cancerous?

Ovarian remnants have the potential to become cancerous, at least in humans. We do know that, in pets, retained ovarian tissue can be linked to several cancers developing outside of the ovaries, such as mammary cancer (such as mammary gland adenocarcinoma) and vaginal cancer

Your cat is also at a higher risk for developing a uterine stump pyometra, an infection within the remaining portion of the uterus.

Conclusion

Ovarian remnant syndrome can occur in cats as a result of poor surgical technique, trouble exposing the ovaries during an ovariohysterectomy, or even extra ovarian tissue in an abnormal place within your cat’s body. Your veterinarian will partner with you on surgery or refer you to a facility for laparoscopic surgery.

Featured Image Credit: megaflopp, Shutterstock

The post Ovarian Remnant Syndrome in Cats: Causes, Signs & Treatments (Vet Answer) by Dr. Samantha Devine DVM (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Anemia is an insidious disease that can affect your cat. Unfortunately, veterinarians often diagnose anemia when it has progressed to being a significant condition, causing weakness and lethargy. The signs are often subtle, so what do you look for to diagnose anemia in cats? Read on to learn more about the process.

What Is Anemia?

Anemia is when there is not a healthy amount of red blood cells circulating around the body. This health issue can also be due to a reduced amount of hemoglobin in the body.

Red blood cells transport oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. Without adequate levels of red blood cells, your cat will become weak as they can’t get enough oxygen to all the areas of the body.

Red blood cells form within the bone marrow. They circulate for roughly two to three months unless they become damaged. In a healthy pet, the old red blood cells get replaced by new red blood cells in a continuous cycle.

Without the healthy amount of red blood cells circulating around the body, the organs do not receive enough oxygen, and this can lead to them failing. Severe anemia can be fatal.

Signs of Anemia in Cats

Oxygen is necessary for many of the cellular reactions that occur within your cat’s body. An anemic cat is typically tired or lethargic. Unfortunately, lethargy is a relatively nonspecific finding, and in older cats, you might attribute it to their age.

Here are some other signs to be aware of:

Causes of Anemia in Cats

Your veterinarian can classify the causes of anemia into one of the major categories. These are as follows:

1. Red Blood Cell Destruction

If your cat eats certain toxic things, these substances could trigger your cat’s body to destroy red blood cells. Tylenol, garlic, and zinc are just a few materials that can cause erythrocyte oxidative injuries. The spleen helps clean up these damaged red blood cells, taking them out of circulation.

Infectious diseases can also contribute to red blood cell destruction. Often, fleas and ticks transmit these organisms, which is just one of the reasons why you should keep your cat on flea and tick prevention. Some of these infectious agents include:

In some cases of feline anemia, cats have immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. While some cases are idiopathic, and we don’t know the cause, vaccines or viruses such as feline leukemia may trigger some cases. With this condition, the immune system destroys the cat’s red blood cells.

2. Red Blood Cell Loss

Your cat can lose red blood cells in a range of ways. Unfortunately, parasites are a common cause of anemia. Your cat could have fleas or ticks that feed on blood, and these parasites can transmit infections that contribute to anemia.

Injuries can cause anemia. Outdoor cats are in danger of being hit by a car, but even cats that hang out on the balcony can fall from a height.

Some cancers can contribute to blood loss, such as transitional cell carcinoma in the bladder. Abnormalities in the gut, like ulcers, can also be associated with blood loss.

3. Trouble Producing Red Blood Cells

One of the significant conditions affecting senior cats is chronic kidney disease or renal failure. When the kidneys stop functioning normally, a hormone known as erythropoietin isn’t produced in appropriate amounts. This chemical messenger tells the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells; you’ll have an anemic cat without it.

Anemia of chronic disease is another process where chronic health issues and inflammation cause your cat’s bone marrow to produce fewer red blood cells.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I prevent anemia in cats?

Reducing possible exposure to agents that can cause anemia is essential for preventing anemia in cats. Keeping your cat inside is the best way to accomplish this feat. It’ll minimize their possible exposure to fleas and ticks, decrease their chances of getting exposed to viruses like feline leukemia, and virtually eliminate the possibility of getting hit by a car.

Regular preventative care, including screening blood work, can help your veterinarian diagnose potential causes of anemia sooner rather than waiting until your cat is already affected by a low red blood cell count and weak. Earlier intervention with kidney failure could buy your kitty more time.

Preventative care is also crucial for reducing your cat’s exposure to internal and external parasites like hookworms and fleas.

Can a cat recover from anemia?

Cats can recover from anemia sometimes, but not all the time. The prognosis and recovery time depend on many factors, from what is causing the anemia to how healthy your cat is overall. A mild case of flea anemia could be treated using flea prevention and environmental control measures, while an autoimmune condition may have a rather poor prognosis for recovery.

What do vets give cats for anemia?

The treatment your veterinarian prescribes for your anemic cat will depend on what the underlying cause of the anemia is and how severe it is. A blood transfusion may be necessary for a cat with a target low packed cell volume, but a mild case might be treatable with a vitamin supplement that contains iron, such as Pet-Tinic.

Conclusion

If your cat has anemia, you’re probably wondering what you need to do and if there’s any way you could have prevented it. Your veterinarian will need to run some diagnostic tests, but they can help determine your cat’s prognosis and a treatment plan.

• See Also: What Causes Anemia in Cats? Our Vet Explains

Featured Image Credit: Oporty786, Shutterstock

The post Anemia in Cats: Signs, Causes & Prevention (Vet Answer) by Dr. Samantha Devine DVM (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

If you own a cat, you’ve probably wondered how intelligent they are. After all, sometimes they can be silly goofballs, while at other times, they can find their way to harass you in the bathroom in the pitch black of night with their mouse toy.

So, how big is a cat’s brain? And does that brain size equate to intelligence? Your cat’s brain is roughly 2 inches long. It only weighs an ounce, which puts your cat’s brain at about 1% of their body weight. Read on for more interesting details.

The Size of a Cat Brain

Purely based on size, a dog’s brain is larger than a cat’s brain; a cat’s brain is slightly larger than a walnut, while a dog’s brain is roughly the size of a tangerine. It’s not necessarily the size that equates with how smart an animal is; the structures and surface folding determine how intelligent an organism is.

Cats have a brain structure more similar to ours than to a dog’s brain. In fact, their brain is about 90% identical to ours, so think about that next time you’re wondering how smart your kitty is!

Don’t panic and start worrying about the cat overlords taking over, however. We have a significant difference in the number of neurons in our cerebral cortex. Cats have roughly 300 million, and we have 21 to 26 billion neurons in that same structure in our brain.¹

Dogs tend to have more neurons than cats, which is likely because they have a larger brain size. In dogs, there’s more development of the social cognition portion of the cerebral cortex, while in cats, a more significant portion is devoted to movement and vision. That means each pet tends to be better at something different than the other.

How Do Cats Use Their Brains?

Your cat’s brain helps regulate every aspect of their life, and it’s the driving force for cats to be crepuscular. Animals like cats that are crepuscular are primarily active in the dawn and twilight hours. It allows them to prey on smaller animals that are also crepuscular. Other animals that exhibit this behavior include:

Based on this behavior pattern, don’t be surprised if your kitty wakes you in the pre-dawn hours. It’s instinct. They’re not trying to torture you.

Cats do other things differently than our canine friends. For example, if you have an outdoor cat that likes to hunt, you should also know they will keep hunting even if they’ve eaten already. This behavior differs from dogs, who typically stop hunting after eating.

The 5 Cat Senses

What your cat can detect with such a small brain is pretty impressive. Their brain allows them to uniquely utilize their senses to help them survive in their environment.

1. Sight

Your cat’s eyes can see incredibly well, even in a dark environment. Cats have a structure known as the tapetum lucidum in their eyes, which helps reflect photons of light back onto the retina, allowing them to have a second chance to utilize the light and see.

Cats also have more rods in their eyes than a person. These photoreceptor cells function best in dim light, allowing your cat to see better in the dark than you. The difference in rods and cones also affects the colors that cats see in the world.

2. Taste

Cats don’t have the same way to sense taste that you do. While we have around 9,000 taste buds, our kitties only have a few hundred taste buds. What is especially interesting about this is that cats don’t seem to be able to taste sweet things. If your cat is trying to get to your sweets, like whipped cream or ice cream, it’s not likely the sugary goodness they’re after but the fats they’re attracted to.

They can taste bitter and associate it with danger or poison, so watch out if you’re using a lemon spray.

3. Hearing

Your cat’s ears are also very helpful for navigating the world around them. The slightly cone-shaped pinna helps direct sound into the middle ear and allows your cat to pinpoint the source of the sound.

4. Touch

Cats also have interesting ways to navigate through touch. Their whiskers provide signals as your cat winds their body through narrow spaces. Aside from the whiskers, they have touch receptors in their paws and nose.

5. Smell

Cats rely heavily on their sense of smell. If your cat has a respiratory infection, they may have trouble scenting their food, which leads to many kitties refusing to eat.

Cats also have a unique structure called the vomeronasal organ. Located just behind their upper incisors in their mouth, this structure helps cats detect and process pheromones. Speaking of pheromones, your cat produces them from an array of places, including between their toes and their anal glands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the main parts of your cat’s brain?

Your cat has a nervous system similar to your own. There are two parts to the central nervous system (or CNS):

These structures can be further divided. For example, the major parts of the brain include:

Are cats getting less intelligent?

We can’t quite compare measurements of how intelligent your cat is compared to their ancestors, but scientists have been studying the size of how cats’ brains have changed. They’re getting smaller.

According to the study, house cats may have undergone a 25% reduction in the size of their brain when compared to European and African wildcats, their wild cousins.

Conclusion

Your cat’s brain is unique and allows them to be amazing hunters. Even if we can’t make an easy determination about whether cats or dogs are more intelligent, they’re still wonderful members of our families.

See also:

• How To Keep Outside Cats Cool in the Summer: 5 Vet-Approved Tips
• Cats Against the World: The Card Game That Obsesses Us

Featured Image Credit: Wongsakorn Napaeng, Shutterstock

The post How Big Is a Cat Brain? Vet Explains Feline Anatomy by Dr. Samantha Devine DVM (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

It is always a bit concerning when your cat seems ill, so you might feel more comfortable if you took them to the vet’s office to get checked out. Your veterinarian will likely want to run several tests if your cat feels under the weather. One test, a feline leukemia and FIV test, checks for certain viral infections. You hope the test comes back negative, but then you get the bad news: your cat tests positive for FIV.

What does that ultimately mean for its care?

What Is FIV?

Feline immunodeficiency virus, or FIV, is a viral infection in cats, affecting roughly 1% to 5% percent of cats.¹ It is relatively similar to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), although these viruses are species-specific. That means you don’t have to worry about catching FIV from your cat. When cats get exposed to FIV, the virus attacks their immune system. Without a fully functioning immune system, your cat is at risk for developing a host of different infections and may even be at a higher risk for certain cancers.

What Are the Signs of FIV In Cats?

FIV occurs in three main stages, according to the Cornell Feline Health Center:²

The Acute Phase

During the initial stage of infection, cats are in the acute phase. The virus reproduces within T-lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. While the virus spreads throughout your cat’s body, initially, you might see lymph node swelling or enlargement.

Your cat might show other signs at this time, including:

The Latent Phase

The latent phase is also called the asymptomatic phase. Infected cats don’t generally show signs during this phase. It may last for months, years, or even the rest of your cat’s life. Viral replication is slow in this period.

There aren’t many signs in this phase, but your veterinarian might detect changes in blood work, such as:

The Progressive Phase

Not all cats enter the progressive phase, but if they do, they may be affected by numerous illnesses. Secondary infections are what usually affect the cat and can shorten their lifespan.

Possible illnesses include:

What Are the Causes of FIV In Cats?

FIV only affects cats but can affect any type of cat, from your domestic shorthair to an African lion.

The virus particles that cause feline immunodeficiency virus don’t last long in the environment, so cats are not usually affected by passive contact, such as sharing food or water bowls or multiple cats grooming each other. If you have more than one cat and they tend to get along well, there’s a much smaller chance of your FIV-negative cat becoming infected in a stable home atmosphere than outdoor cats roaming and potentially fighting.

The most common way for FIV to pass between cats is a bite wound. As such, outdoor cats, particularly unneutered males defending their territory, are likelier to have FIV than other cats. It is less likely for pregnant or nursing females to pass the virus on to their kittens. However, it is still possible to do so through the placenta, via milk when kittens are nursing, or during the birthing process itself.

How Do I Care for a Cat With FIV?

There is currently no cure for FIV in cats. When you get a new cat, your veterinarian should test your new addition for FIV. The most common way to check for this viral infection is to test for feline leukemia.

The test is commonly called the feline leukemia and FIV SNAP test. It is run on a small sample of blood mixed with a conjugate, using an ELISA or Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay test. If your cat is negative, your veterinarian should recheck it 2 to 6 months later, as that is the virus’s incubation period. Positive tests should be confirmed by either sending a sample to an animal laboratory, such as IDEXX or Antech, or by repeating the sample on a different manufacturer’s test.

Routine physical exams and preventative care visits are essential for all cats, but they’re especially important for cats with FIV. If your kitty is asymptomatic, visits every six months will likely be sufficient. Your cat should be seen immediately if it has any signs of illness.

Because many cats with FIV have gingivitis or stomatitis lesions in their mouths, your veterinarian will want to pay particularly close attention to your cat’s mouth. Stomatitis is a severe inflammatory condition often considered an overreaction of the cat’s immune system. If your cat is healthy enough, they should usually have annual or semi-annual dental cleanings under anesthesia.

Your veterinarian will record and monitor your cat’s weight, among other parameters. Weight loss is often one of the first signs detected in cats with worsening cases of FIV. Since there is no cure for FIV, treatments are often aimed at supportive care. Antiviral therapy is sometimes utilized, especially for symptomatic cats, such as Zidovudine (AZT). Unfortunately, this medication does not appear to improve survival times in cats. A mainstay of managing an FIV-positive cat is reducing their risk of exposure to potential illnesses.

General recommendations include:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What Should You Feed a Fiv-Positive Cat?

FIV-positive cats should eat balanced cat food appropriate for their life stage or consider other health issues, such as food allergies. These cats should not eat raw, unpasteurized, or undercooked foods, which could increase their risk of exposure to pathogenic bacteria, parasites, and other microorganisms.

Can a Cat With FIV Live with Other Pets?

FIV is not contagious to other species, so as long as your animals get along, they should be fine together. If you have other cats, they can live with other kitties, but you should ensure they don’t fight and have ample space to minimize the possibility of conflict.

Conclusion

It can be pretty scary to learn your cat has an incurable virus, but many cats live full lives. You should reduce their risk of exposure to other illnesses and conflict with other cats. Routine wellness care is also essential to monitor your cat’s health.

Featured Image Credit: RJ22, Shutterstock

The post FIV in Cats (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus): Vet Explained Causes, Signs & Care by Dr. Samantha Devine DVM (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

You’ve noticed a lump growing on your cat, and you do the responsible thing, which is talking to your vet. Your cat’s veterinarian takes a skin biopsy after not seeing any other issues on the exam, and the results come back a few days later. Your cat has hemangiosarcoma. What does that mean, and what can you do?

What Is Hemangiosarcoma?

Hemangiosarcoma is a type of cancer. It tends to have very malignant behavior, likely related to the fact that it is a tumor that arises from blood vessels. It can spread anywhere, but it mainly spreads to the lungs. Because it is a cancer associated with blood vessels, the primary tumor can be found practically anywhere in your cat’s body, from the skin layer to the base of the heart.

Hemangiosarcoma is more common in dogs than in cats, and your vet might have never treated a case of hemangiosarcoma in cats. Hemangiosarcoma has four forms in cats:

What Are the Signs of Hemangiosarcoma in Cats?

Cats may show various signs that could indicate hemangiosarcoma. The signs are usually non-specific and can be hard to interpret.

Your cat might develop a swelling or lump that you can feel. Your veterinarian should test the lump to look for evidence of cancer. Sometimes, vets detect visceral cancers during abdominal palpation, where an organ like the spleen or liver feels larger or has an associated mass.

You or your vet might realize something is wrong if your cat shows signs of blood loss, such as:

These signs tend to occur when your cat’s mass is bleeding. Some masses bleed small amounts into the abdomen, causing the abdomen to distend slowly. Others can rupture and cause massive internal bleeding very quickly.

Unfortunately, some cases of hemangiosarcoma are only diagnosed after a pet suddenly passes away.

What Are the Causes of Hemangiosarcoma in Cats?

We don’t know the exact cause of hemangiosarcoma in cats, and it may be multifactorial or caused by various factors. One potential cause of cutaneous hemangiosarcoma is exposure to the sun. It occurs more frequently in cats with shorter hair and lighter fur than in longer or darker-haired cats.

How Do I Care for a Cat With Hemangiosarcoma?

If your cat is diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma, it’ll likely need a full-body workup. Your veterinarian will recommend that your cat have blood work done, radiographs (X-rays), or possibly an ultrasound. These tests help look for changes, such as metastasis.

Most pets with hemangiosarcoma need surgical intervention. The spleen is often affected and can cause bleeding, so pets may need a splenectomy. Surgery can sometimes be curative, usually when it’s just a tiny skin mass. Unfortunately, if your cat is affected by a deeper primary tumor, such as one involving the liver or spleen, surgery is not likely going to be curative.

Many pets with hemangiosarcoma have bleeding. Your cat may need supportive care through blood transfusions or fluid therapy.

Your veterinarian may recommend chemotherapy for your cat. Different protocols and medication combinations could be used, but doxorubicin is one chemotherapeutic agent that is often used.

Your veterinarian might also suggest using an herb, Yunnan baiyao. This herb helps stop bleeding, although the mechanism of action is unknown. It could be used as a palliative measure, especially if you elect not to perform surgery.

Due to the limited number of cases, researchers have little data on treatment effectiveness in cats. According to Long Island Veterinary Specialists, the life expectancy for many cats is around three months with surgery alone. It extends to roughly 6 to 9 months with a combination of surgery and chemotherapy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the treatment for hemangiosarcoma in cats?

The treatment plan your veterinarian or veterinary oncologist creates will depend on where the hemangiosarcoma is located and whether there is evidence of metastasis. According to the Veterinary Information Network, roughly 30% of visceral cases of hemangiosarcoma in cats are so severe that cats need to be euthanized at the time of diagnosis. In these other cases, surgery may help prevent or stop bleeding, but chemotherapy combined with surgery gives the longest life expectancy.

What are the signs of heart-based hemangiosarcoma in cats?

A heart-based mass can be challenging to diagnose without advanced imaging. You might notice that your cat is weaker or lethargic. In some cases, pets will develop an arrhythmia. If the mass bursts or starts to bleed, your cat may collapse or be found dead.

Conclusion

Hemangiosarcoma is not common in cats, which is good because it’s a very aggressive type of cancer. Treatment tends to be most successful if your cat has a small skin mass rather than a tumor associated with internal organs like the heart or spleen.

Featured Image Credit: Maria Sbytova, Shutterstock

The post Hemangiosarcoma in Cats: Causes, Signs & Care Guide (Vet-Answer) by Dr. Samantha Devine DVM (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

You know that cats groom themselves, so you’re not surprised to see your kitty licking until you realize they’re constantly licking things. Is it normal for your cat to lick everything? Is there anything you can do to stop your cat from licking everything? This article can offer you some guidance.

Why Do Cats Lick Excessively?

Cats have a rather interesting tongue. If a cat has ever licked you, you know it feels differently than if your dog licks you. The tongue has little teeth that angle backward. As your cat licks its coat, these teeth dislodge loose hairs and debris. Your feline family members can then swallow the hairs.

To figure out what to do for your cat that licks constantly, you need to understand why cats lick.

Grooming

The most common reason cats lick themselves is to groom their coats. Sometimes, cats will even groom each other. Some cats even groom their human family members occasionally. Sometimes, this grooming can be overdone, and your cat could develop bald spots. You might see hair loss develop commonly on your cat’s belly.

Itchy

Cats with skin allergies or external parasites such as fleas often groom themselves excessively. Sometimes, they groom so much that it’s hard to find any evidence of the fleas.

Tasting

Your cat’s nose isn’t quite as adept at picking up scents as your dog’s is, but it’s still pretty impressive. Your cat has a scent organ on the roof of its mouth known as the vomeronasal organ, so they sometimes explore the world with their mouths. If you notice your cat licking the table or carpet, you might have missed a spot when cleaning up your spilled snack.

Textures

Some cats lick seemingly odd materials, such as plastic bags. While we don’t always know why your cat is licking the item, it could be a residual scent or even a texture or sound they enjoy.

Pain

Cats will often lick an area that is painful for them. Cats with arthritis might obsessively lick their joints. Cats with anal gland issues might overgroom their tails.

Stressed or Bored

Stressed kitties may obsessively lick. Many will lick their own coat but might also lick objects around the house. Another behavioral consideration for licking is a bored kitty. Cats need stimulation and enrichment, and without an outlet, they can even develop other undesirable behaviors, such as biting.

Stopping Your Cat From Licking Obsessively

Whether your cat is licking itself or licking many items in your house, it’s worth mentioning to your vet. If you notice your cat licking to the point that it has bald spots or sores, it’s important to have it examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Now it’s time to play detective. Some things to consider:

Two major concerns with a cat that keeps licking are overgrooming and pica.

Your veterinarian will be the best way to determine what is triggering your cat to lick. They can help you devise an allergy-management plan or enrichment activities. In some cases, your cat will need to be prescribed medication, such as fluoxetine or amitriptyline.

The 6 Things You Can Do at Home for Your Cat’s Licking

1. Use Flea Prevention

With few exceptions, most cats in the United States need to be on monthly flea and heartworm prevention. Your veterinarian can help you pick a product for your cat. Do not use dog flea prevention on a cat. It could be deadly.

2. Feed a Balanced Diet

Make sure your cat is eating a diet that meets their current life stage requirements. AAFCO is an organization that creates standards for pet food. In the United States, you should be able to find a seal that tells you if the food is complete and balanced for a set life stage, such as for kittens or senior cats.

3. Groom Your Cat Regularly

Our cats often groom themselves, but you should not just rely on them. Get out a brush and smooth their coat. You’ll likely need to help them keep their backside clean if they’re overweight.

4. Offer Enrichment

Most cats want to interact with us, but they should have activities that they can do without us being present. Consider setting up a window seat so that your cat can birdwatch. Or go the extra step and set up a TV or tablet with outdoor videos on a loop to give them something to watch. (Just be aware some cats will pounce.)

Interactive toys are great. You can even find puzzle toys to help keep your cat’s mind active.

5. Weight Loss

If your cat is overweight, you’ll want to get them started on a weight loss plan. Overweight kitties are more likely to develop joint disease, which can lead to pain, but they’re also at risk for issues like diabetes.

6. Ensure Resources

Especially if you have multiple cats or other animals, you’ll want to make sure your cat isn’t stressed over when or where they will eat or use the litter box. Offer multiple locations so that if your cats are competing, each one can get somewhere to reduce stress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is my cat licking plastic bags?

Cats might try licking plastic bags for a few reasons. Did you have takeout in the bags or some meat or produce from the grocery store? They might still detect the smell.

Some cats seem to lick plastic because they enjoy the texture or the sound the bag makes. Is your kitty trying to play with the bag? They might think it’s a new toy.

You should make sure your cat isn’t eating the plastic bags or getting tangled up in them. Overall, there are much safer toys and enrichment activities than playing with plastic bags.

Why is my cat licking blankets?

Some cats will constantly lick blankets, particularly fuzzy ones. This behavior is called wool-sucking. Cats are often younger when they do this behavior, which seems to be reminiscent of them nuzzling or nursing from their mother.

Make sure your cat can’t ingest pieces of the blanket, as this could have devastating consequences, such as intestinal obstruction.

Conclusion

If your cat is licking a lot, you should work with your vet to determine if it is obsessively or compulsively licking, which could be a sign of an underlying condition. While your veterinarian will need to help develop a robust treatment plan, you can make sure your cat stays on monthly flea prevention and eats a balanced diet.

Featured Image Credit: GitanasD, Shutterstock

The post How to Stop a Cat From Licking Everything: Our Vet Discusses Reasons, Remedies & FAQ by Dr. Samantha Devine DVM (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Is your cat itchy? Is his stool softer than it should be? There are many reasons why your cat might benefit from a nutritional supplement. One product to consider is Dinovite for Cats. Let’s take a look at what this product can reportedly do for your feline.

What Is Dinovite for Cats?

Dinovite is a nutritional supplement with several compounds many cats can reap benefits.

Dinovite for Cats should be given daily. While several compounds are added to enhance your cat’s immune system and skin health, its primary function is that it contains probiotics and prebiotics.

The company that makes Dinovite for Cats has other products, including ones for your canine family members. Some of these products for cats include:

How Is Dinovite for Cats Given?

Dinovite for Cats is a powder supplement. The goal is to give your cat one scoop each day. The company recommends that you start by adding approximately a 1/4 of a scoop to the bottom of your cat’s food bowl for a week or two. Doing so will gradually get your cat used to the taste and smell. As your kitty gets used to the supplement, mix it with their food and increase it until you give a full scoop daily.

To increase palatability, the company that makes Dinovite for Cats suggests adding another of its products, such as Lickochops, to the bowl.

What Happens if You Miss a Dose?

We all know that things happen, and you might miss giving your cat a dose of Dinovite to your kitty occasionally. If you skip a dose, there shouldn’t be an issue; just try to resume it the next time you can.

Potential Side Effects of Dinovite for Cats

The main potential side effect of Dinovite is gastrointestinal signs. Some cats develop vomiting or diarrhea, particularly when starting the product.

Many cats are finicky eaters, and some don’t enjoy the taste of Dinovite. The company recommends introducing the product gradually to minimize the possibility of GI signs and to decrease the likelihood of your cat not eating it.

An allergy to one or more ingredients in Dinovite for Cats is less likely but still possible. Allergic reactions can lead to itching skin, vomiting, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my cat still itchy after being on Dinovite for Cats?

While Dinovite is designed to help improve your cat’s immune system and skin health, your cat could be allergic to food or things in the environment that overwhelm what even this product can do. A common allergy is an allergy to fleas. If your cat is itchy, ensure it is on a reliable flea prevention program and speak to your veterinarian about other possible allergy control measures.

How long does it take for Dinovite to start working?

Dinovite takes several weeks to reach the maximum benefits for your cat, usually about six weeks.

Does Dinovite for Cats need to be refrigerated?

Dinovite does not need to be kept in the fridge, but it does need to be stored in a cool, dry place. In many houses, the pantry is a great place to keep the product.

What can I do if my cat doesn’t want to eat Dinovite?

As the manufacturer recommends, gradually introduce it to your cat, putting it in the bottom of their food bowl with their food on top. If that doesn’t work, try one of the toppers like Lickochops added to the food to give some extra flavor (as well as fish oils and bacterial cultures to support gut health). You could even try Lickochops or SqueezOble for Cats without using Dinovite.

Conclusion

Dinovite for Cats can be an added part of your cat’s health care routine. It provides several nutrients, as well as probiotics and prebiotics, to help maintain a healthy digestive tract and support the immune system, coat, and skin.

Featured Image Credit: sophiecat, Shutterstock

The post Dinovite for Cats: Vet-Approved Nutritional Supplement (2024 Review) by Dr. Samantha Devine DVM (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Does your cat have tears running down its face? No, your kitty isn’t crying, but it could have a blocked tear duct that causes excessive tearing, also known as epiphora. Let’s look at potential causes and what can be done.

What Is a Blocked Tear Duct in Cats?

First, epiphora is a term you should know as we go through this process and treatment. It is an overflow of tears, spilling over the eyelids and often rubbing down your cat’s face.

Many things can lead to epiphora, including a blocked tear duct. Also known as the nasolacrimal duct, this tubular structure allows tears to drain into the nasal passageways from the eye. It’s located near the medial canthus or inner corner of the eye.

Tears drain through the duct passively, thanks to gravity. The eyelids opening and closing also move some tears through the duct, as does capillary action.

When the nasolacrimal duct is blocked, the tears can’t travel through and out the nose. Instead, they spill over the eye, indicating epiphora.

What Are the Signs of a Blocked Tear Duct in Cats?

When your cat’s nasolacrimal duct is blocked, they tend to have tears spilling over their eyelids because they don’t evaporate fast enough. Your kitty will often develop tear staining, an outward sign of epiphora. This staining tends to be a brown or reddish color and follows the path of the tears dripping from the eyes.

Long-haired cats are more at risk for their hair knotting or matting where the tears land below their eyes. These matted hairs can be painful and rub on the cornea, leading to corneal scratches.

Another issue when the hair near the eyes gets matted is a skin infection. It’s easy for a damp area of hair to lead to a bacterial skin infection. You might detect an odd smell near your cat’s face or see hair loss below the eyes. If the skin looks red or matted, take your cat to the vet for an exam and treatment.

What Are the Causes of a Blocked Tear Duct in Cats?

The leading cause of a blocked nasolacrimal duct in cats is secondary to feline herpesvirus infection. This virus can lead to duct scarring, so tears can’t easily flow down it.

Other medical conditions can cause inflammation or infection of the duct, leading to an obstruction. Severe conjunctivitis could block the duct opening. Structurally, tumors in the head or even an eyelid margin tumor can block the flow of tears through the nasolacrimal duct. Material, such as thickened ocular discharge, can also block the duct.

Some cats have conformational changes that can contribute to a blocked tear duct. Brachycephalic or short-nosed cat breeds, such as Persians, may have more issues with the normal flow of tears.

Some cats have a genetic effect in developing their nasolacrimal duct, where they have no opening for the duct, referred to as imperforate puncta.

How Do I Care for a Cat With Blocked Tear Ducts?

If your cat might have a blocked tear duct, they should be examined by a veterinarian. Your vet might refer you to an ophthalmologist for further evaluation and treatment. While you wait for your appointment, try to keep the tear tract clean and brushed. Doing so will help minimize the chance of skin infections or irritation to the cornea from matted hairs.

In the veterinary hospital, your vet will perform a thorough physical exam and evaluate the eye and surrounding structures. In the ophthalmologist’s office, they will use a slit lamp biomicroscope to evaluate the structures of the eye in more detail.

A fluorescent stain called fluorescein is one of the easiest ways to assess a patent or open nasolacrimal duct. A few drops are applied to the eye, and your vet will look to see if it appears to be coming out of the nose or mouth. If the dye doesn’t show up under a black light, usually around the nose, within about 5 minutes, your cat’s tear duct is blocked.

The doctor often attempts to pass a cannula into the duct opening and flush saline through. This process helps clear out clogged material, such as mucus, and may open the nasolacrimal duct back open. The veterinarian may examine some saline and material under a microscope by cytology. They may also culture it to see if bacteria are present that could be contributing to inflammation or infection within the duct.

After choosing the duct, your cat’s veterinarian may put your cat on anti-inflammatory medication and antimicrobial therapy, depending on the results of the cytology and culture.

Your veterinary team can show you how to administer medications, but generally, you’ll want to come from behind while gently tipping your cat’s head up. It might be a two-person job. Wrap your kitty in a “purrito” with a towel or blanket if you need to protect yourself.

In some cases, your veterinarian will recommend surgery. The goal of surgery is to open or reconstruct the normal duct. Sometimes, a stent will be placed to facilitate drainage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will a blocked tear duct fix itself?

A blocked tear duct might fix itself. If the blockage is caused by scarring or a conformational issue, it likely won’t heal. On the other hand, if a bit of inflammation causes a blockage, it could resolve on its own.

Applying a warm compress to the area can help reduce inflammation. Gently rinsing the eye may also dislodge material from the duct.

Will it hurt your cat to not fix a blocked tear duct?

In many cases, a blocked tear duct won’t cause any lasting issues for your feline, especially if you keep the area around their eyes clean to prevent bacterial infections. Chronic inflammation, tumors, and foreign bodies can cause pain and permanent changes. Speaking to your veterinarian about your cat’s condition is always best.

Conclusion

If you notice excessive tearing from your cat’s eyes, talk to your veterinarian about possible causes. Your veterinarian or ophthalmologist can often gently flush the duct or put your cat on anti-inflammatories to help reestablish tear flow.

Featured Image Credit: PixieMe, Shutterstock

The post Blocked Tear Duct in Cats (Epiphora): Our Vet Explains Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment by Dr. Samantha Devine DVM (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.