Tag Archives: veterinarians Roanoke VA

Cat Care

How To Catproof Your Tree

Season’s Greetings! One of the many things we love about this time of year is seeing all of the beautiful decorations around town. We also love getting cards and photos from our clients. We never get tired of seeing adorable pictures of our furry patients! Fido and Fluffy always look super cute in front of the tree. Of course, we also get our fair share of photos of cats looking adorably proud of themselves after clearly demolishing their humans’ trees. We have definitely had more of our fair share of feline patients make Santa’s naughty list for their holiday shenanigans! Turns out, knocking trees over is one of Fluffy’s favorite holiday traditions. A local Troutville, VA vet offers a few helpful tips on how to keep your feline companion out of your tree in this article.

Why Is My Kitty So Obsessed With My Christmas Tree?

You can’t really blame Fluffy for her tree obsession. In the wild, cats use trees as lookout points, napping spots, and kitty manicure stations. They also run up trees to reach safety from weather, floods, or, in some cases, other animals. Larger cats use trees to stalk their prey, and also for sleeping, eating, and, of course, more sleeping. Many of our feline pals also can’t resist shiny things. Therefore, you can pretty much expect your kitty to get excited about the tree. In her opinion, it’s a giant piece of kitty furniture, decorated with shiny new toys.

Are Christmas Trees Dangerous For Cats?

We probably wouldn’t say that the Christmas tree is the most dangerous thing in your home. That said, there are some risks. Many of those delicate ornaments are choking and/or strangulation hazards. As a general rule of thumb, anything small or sharp should be considered unsafe for all pets. Stringy or ropy items are dangerous as well: these can choke or entangle playful pets, and are extremely dangerous if ingested. There’s also the risk of Fluffy injuring herself by bringing the tree down. For those with real trees, the water also poses a risk, as it could contain traces of leached chemicals, such as pesticides or fire retardants. 

Should I Punish My Kitty For Climbing The Christmas Tree?

We know, it can be pretty frustrating to find that your feline pal has knocked over your tree, and possibly ruined a few heirloom ornaments in the process. However, you should never actually punish your pet for making a mess. Because the urge to scratch and climb trees is so deeply ingrained in Fluffy, she won’t understand that she did something wrong. She also may get quite confused as to why you are angry. This could make her feel threatened or unsafe, which can then snowball into other behavioral problems, such as anxiety and aggression. It’s better to use gentler tactics. Ask your Troutville, VA vet for more information. 

Can I Train My Kitty To Leave My Christmas Tree Alone?

As many of you know, it’s usually the cat that trains the human, rather than it being the other way around. Fluffy may already have you trained to feed, pet, and play with her on demand. However, your feline overlord isn’t quite as all-powerful as she thinks. You certainly can teach your furball what is and isn’t acceptable. You just have to make her think that it was her idea. In this case, you’d do that by helping your pet form a negative association with the tree, by making her just wary enough to be suspicious of it.

When Fluffy goes near it, try making a loud noise. You can bang two pots together, rattle a jar of change, sound an alarm app on your phone, stomp your foot, set off an air horn, or even activate that singing snowman. (You could also try squirting your pet with water. However, while that may help keep her off your counter, it may not be a good idea for this specific issue. You don’t want to get water all over your tree or gifts, or into the outlets you’re using for lights.)

The key is to startle or annoy your kitty without hurting her. After a few of these incidents, your feline pal will probably retreat to her favorite corner to glare at you and think things over. Be sure to ask your Troutville, VA veterinarian for more care tips.

How Do I Make The Tree Less Appealing To My Kitty?

Now for the important stuff. The key is to remember that your cute pet is a predator, and an opportunistic one at that. However, you may be able to convince her that napping under the tree with the rest of the gifts is a better option than destroying it.

Here are a few steps you can take to make the tree less appealing to your frisky little pet.

Go Artificial: Real trees look and smell great, but they are costly, cumbersome, and, well, a bit wasteful. Consider switching to an artificial tree. Your feline pal won’t have much luck climbing wire trunks and branches! Plus, you won’t have to worry about her drinking the water. Tree water bowls are often contaminated by chemicals such as pesticides or fire retardants. This is a danger to pets, as some will drink out of the bowl.

Decorate Carefully: Minimize the amount of decorations you have on the lower third of the tree. You really only want a few things within paws’ reach. These should all be dull, unbreakable ornaments, such as that fabric Gingerbread Man your grandma made. Put most of the lights, tinsel, and ornaments, including anything sharp, shiny, or fragile, on the top part of the tree.

Scent Deterrents: Scent deterrents may also help here. Citrus is often recommended, as cats just don’t like its smell. Just keep in mind that you may need to reapply it.

Block Access: Another thing you can do is position the tree in a way that makes it hard for your cat to reach. A corner is often a good choice. Try not to put the tree too close to sofas, desks, chairs, or anything else your kitty could use as a launchpad.

How Can I Make My Kitty Lose Interest In The Tree?

It’s hard to make cats do anything: Fluffy is known for doing exactly what she wants, when she wants. That said, you may find that bribery can be quite helpful here. Give your feline pal some of her toys early, and take a few minutes a day to play with her. The point is to let your pet work off some of her kitty zoomies and hopefully tire her out a bit. We all know what happens when kitties get tired: naptime!

This is also a good time to point out that there’s a great kitty alternative for actual trees: cat towers. If Fluffy doesn’t have one, consider buying or making her one for her gift this year. This may just distract her enough so that she leaves the tree alone.

How Do I Keep My Kitty From Knocking My Tree Down?

If all else fails, you may want to reinforce your tree a bit. One option is to use clear fishing line to attach the top of the tree to the wall or ceiling. It won’t show at all, but may offer just enough extra support to prevent a wipeout. We also would recommend getting a tree with a sturdy base.

All of us here at Old Dominion Veterinary Clinic, your Troutville, VA animal clinic, wish you a wonderful holiday season. Please contact us anytime!

Dog Care

Giving Fido Treats

October is National Pet Obesity Awareness Month. Pet obesity rates have skyrocketed in recent years. More than half of our four-legged buddies are overweight. Diet of course plays a large role here. Another factor in Fido’s expanding waistline? His love of snacks. A local Roanoke, VA vet goes over some do’s and don’ts of giving your pup treats below.

Store-Bought Treats

Store-bought treats are fine … as long as you choose wisely. Pick things that are appropriate for Fido’s age and size. We also recommend checking the label. Opt for things that contain healthy, identifiable ingredients, with meat, fish, and/or poultry preferably being listed first and most often on the label. Choose things that were made in North America, as overseas manufacturers may not be obligated to adhere to the same quality standards.

Homemade Snacks

Do you like cooking? If so, you can make your canine pal’s snacks. You’ll find plenty of recipes online. Make sure you’re only using ingredients that are safe for Fido. These include mashed bananas, pureed meat, natural peanut butter, bacon bits, sodium-free broth, cheese, liver powder, plain yogurt, canned meat or chicken, hamburger, ground turkey, and pureed pumpkin. Ask your vet for more information.

Tricks For Treats

One of the best things about our canine companions is the fact that they are so devoted. Fido has literally risked—and sometimes sacrificed—his life to protect or save his humans. You can put that dedication to work for you. Have your canine buddy do a trick for his treats. If your pooch doesn’t know basic commands, like Sit, Stay, or Lay Down, start with these. Otherwise, teach him something cute, like Play Dead, Roll Over, or Shake Paw.

Begging

We really can’t discuss treats without going into Fido’s begging talents. Our canine pals have had a very long time to perfect the sad expression that’s so effective at jerking on our heartstrings … and getting us to dole out yummy tidbits. It’s not easy to resist that furry face and soulful stare, but steel yourself: you aren’t doing Fido any favors by overfeeding him.

Safety

Take care not to give Fido anything that isn’t safe. That includes garlic and onions, chocolate, alcohol, avocado, pitted fruits, caffeine, raw dough or yeast, and anything that contains xylitol and/or a lot of fat, salt, or sugar. Ask your vet for more information.

Please contact us, your local Roanoke, VA animal clinic, for all of your dog’s veterinary care needs. We’re here for you!

General Care

Spring Allergies In Dogs

As you probably know, spring is one of the peak times for allergies. This is an issue for both people and pups! As many as 20 percent of our canine pals develop allergies at some point in their lives. A Roanoke, VA vet offers some insight on doggy allergies below. 

 

Common Allergens 

Fido can be allergic to any number of things. However, environmental allergens, such as dust and pollen, are quite widespread … especially in spring. Some common culprits here are tree pollen, particularly ash, cedar, and oak; grass; weeds, such as ragweed; dust; mold; and mildew. Fido may also be allergic to insect bites and/or substances inside the home. Food allergies are also not uncommon. These typically involve a specific sort of protein, such as chicken, beef, or egg. 

 

Warning Signs


Fido can develop allergies at any point in his life. However, most allergies appear once pups are six months or older, usually when dogs are at least a year old. Keep an eye out for signs of allergies. Itchiness is one of the most common ones. Fido may lick or bite himself, or rub up against things … including you. Some other red flags include red, runny eyes, sneezing, snoring, and stubborn ear infections. Your furry friend may also have red, irritated skin; hives; or hot spots; and he may shed more than usual. You may also notice wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing, or, in case of food allergies, vomiting or diarrhea. Contact your vet right away if you notice any of these things.

 

How To Help

There are a few things you can do to help keep your canine companion more comfortable. One option would be to download a pollen tracking app. Limit your cute pet’s outdoor time when levels are high. You may also want to wipe Fido’s paws and belly down when you bring him in from outdoors. This will get pollen and dust out of his fur, reducing or even preventing further reactions. Oatmeal baths can also be beneficial, as are certain supplements. Medications, such as antihistamines, are another option. However, you should never give your pooch anything without checking with your vet first. Many human medications are toxic to our furry companion! Ask your vet for specific care tips.

 

Do you have questions about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your local Roanoke, VA animal clinic, today! 

 

Cat Care

Fun Facts About Tuxies

Is your feline buddy sporting formal wear? We love tuxies! These elegant, fashion-forward kitties are super cute and lovable. A Roanoke, VA vet lists some fun facts about Fluffy below.

A Kitty By Any Other Name … 

Only America’s black-and-white kitties are known as tuxies. The rest of the world calls them bi-color cats or magpie cats. Fluffy was also referred to as a Jellicle in T.S. Elliot’s Old Possum’s Book Of Practical Cats, a collection of kitty-inspired poetry that’s a must for cat owners who enjoy poetry. Tuxedo cats are also sometimes called Van-pattern kitties by breeders.

Breed Apart

Speaking of breed, tuxies are not a specific breed. Actually, many breed standards allow for tuxie coloring. There are a few notable exceptions, such as the Russian Blue and Bombay cats, which are always gray and black, respectively.

Color Coordination

When you hear the word tuxie, you probably think of a black and white kitty. However, Fluffy may also be wearing blue-gray and white, orange and white, or even cream and white, which is the rarest option.

Famous Fans

Fluffy certainly has won many hearts. She’s also made fans of quite a few famous people, including William Shakespeare, Sir Isaac Newton, and Beethoven! 

Purrsonality

All kitties are unique, and many of them are super affectionate and lovable. That said, tuxies tend to be quite friendly, outgoing, talkative, and playful. (Of course, we’re pretty sure that quite a few people would say that about their feline pals.)

Fur Length

Tuxies can sport long or short fur. Some of the short-haired breeds that may wear this outfit include the Manx and British Shorthair. Longhaired kitties that may have tuxie coloring include the Persian and Maine Coon. (Mixed breeds, of course, can sport either.)

Celebrekitties

We can’t really discuss tuxies without talking about the most famous of them all: Sylvester. The iconic kitty made his cartoon debut back in 1945. However, his predecessor, a kitty that appeared in Naughty But Mice, an early Disney cartoon, was dressed entirely in black. Other famous tuxies include Felix, a comic strip star, and Dr. Suess’ cat.

Spoiling Your Tuxie

Don’t let Fluffy’s special day go by unobserved! Spoil your furball with toys, treats, or perhaps a new bed. Catnip would also not be inappropriate.

Do you have questions about caring for your tuxie? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA animal clinic, today!

Behavior, Cat Care

7 Signs That Your Cat is Plotting World Domination

There’s a pretty auspicious pet holiday coming up. June is Cat World Domination Day. Of course, if you have a feline overlord, it probably won’t be much of a shock to find that there’s a whole day dedicated to Fluffy’s dreams of becoming Supreme Leader. But is your cute pet planning something sinister? A local Roanoke, VA vet lists a few things to beware of below.

Laptop Lounging

Do you sometimes find your kitty snoozing on your book or magazine, or even on your computer? Fluffy may act like she just wants another nap, but she may be trying to absorb crucial information by osmosis.

Sudden Cattitude

Does your feline pal sometimes act sweet and cuddly one minute, only to hiss or scratch you the next? Kitties can be a bit temperamental at times. While sometimes these incidents can be a sign that Fluffy is stressed, sick, or unhappy, if your kitty is normally content and has a clean bill of health, she may be working on making herself appear more formidable.

Finicky Furball

Dogs will eat, well, pretty much anything, but kitties can be a bit purrticular about their food. If Fluffy sometimes turns her cute little nose up at what you put in her bowl, you may have a furry little diva on your hands. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Combat Training

Another sure sign that Fluffy is plotting something? Sudden ambushes. The next time your pet pounces on you, or runs out from behind the couch as you pass, pay close attention. Those playful tactics may also not be as innocent as they look.

Practice

Have you ever wondered why cats sometimes look so smug and self-assured? Fluffy’s expression may be her practicing the superior look she’ll wear after conquering the world.

Hunting

If you let your feline buddy go outdoors, there’s a good chance that she’s laid a few dead rodents on your porch. You may have assumed that Fluffy thought she was doing you a favor. However, she may actually be trying to strike fear into your heart.

Table Smack

Does your kitty sometimes clear things off your table or counter with a single swipe of her paw? Fluffy may be practicing showing displeasure at some inept minions.

Does your feline overlord need vaccinations or parasite control? Contact us, your local Roanoke, VA veterinary clinic, today!

Dog Care, General Care

Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day

Dog owners, put a pawprint on your calendar for February 23rd: it’s Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day! Fido has many cute habits, but one of the most adorable is the way he perks up when he knows or suspects that you have a treat for him. A local Roanoke, VA vet goes over some do’s and don’ts of giving your canine pal snacks below.

Choosing Treats

Man’s Best Friend has a pretty robust appetite. Fido would likely be more than happy to test drive any type of treat you bring home. However, some are definitely better than others. Get into the habit of reading labels, and try to stick with brands that use whole, healthy ingredients. Avoid things with long lists of ingredients you can neither pronounce nor identify.

Timing

Treats are actually very beneficial for Fido. However, you don’t want to go overboard here. Treats should make up about five percent of his daily caloric intake.

Homemade Goodies

If you enjoy cooking, you can try making your pup’s biscuits. There are some great recipes online. Cooking for Fido also has some benefits: you’ll be able to determine exactly what your furry friend is eating. This is really helpful if your pup has any sort of dietary restrictions. You can also customize treats to your pet’s taste.

Human Foods

Some of the things we eat are fine for dogs. Plain meat, fish, or poultry, without the skin, bones, or fat, is always a good bet. Just be sure to avoid unsafe foods, such as garlic, onions, chocolate, alcohol, and xylitol. Meat on the bone is also a no-no, as are pitted fruits, processed foods, and anything high in salt, sugar, or fat. Ask your vet for more information on safe and unsafe foods.

Begging

Fido is very, very good at convincing us to share our treats with him. That furry face can be hard to ignore! However, don’t let your pooch wrap you around his paws. If you spoil your pet, you may find him becoming pushy or even aggressive. 

Tricks For Treats

Our canine companions truly do strive to please their humans. Have Fido work for his snacks! This is a great way to reinforce his training. Plus, you can show your furry buddy some cute tricks.

Do you have questions about your dog’s diet or care? Contact us, your local Roanoke, VA veterinary clinic, today!

Behavior, Cat Care

Fluffy’s Life Goals

Many of our feline friendshave it pretty easy in life. Fluffy gets to spend the majority of her time basically lounging around, meowing orders at her humans, eating, and looking cute. Talk about a charmed life! However, if your cat had a specific ‘purrpose’ to strive for, what do you think she would strive for? A local Roanoke, VA vet goes over some of Fluffy’s life goals in this article.

Become A Master Napper

Did you know that senior cats can spend as much as 20 hours a day sleeping? That’s pretty impressive! Of course, Fluffy will spend a good chunk of her life practicing. She’ll also work on mastering specific positions, such as the Pretzel and the Backsprawl.

Control The Humans

Many of our feline overlords really do have their owners wrapped around their little paws. Does your kitty have you trained to feed or pet her whenever she cries? Does your house look like a luxury palace for a cat? If not, Fluffy may still be working on this one!

World Domination

We know, it’s a bit of a jump to go from training you to feed her on demand to complete domination. Could your innocent little pet be plotting to take over the universe? We’re not sure, but given that Fluffy did convince the ancient Egyptians to consider her a deity, it’s a definite possibility.

Become A Ferocious Hunter

Cats are always super cute when they are being playful. However, all that pouncing, scratching, and jumping your kitty does isn’t for nothing. Fluffy is a ferocious predator by nature, and she will never stop thinking of herself as a lion or tiger. (Your pet may only be hunting dust bunnies, but that’s besides the point.) Perfecting that pounce would definitely make Fluffy’s bucket list.

Get Rid Of The Dog

Some of our feline patients are actually quite close to their canine roommates. Others? Not so much. Given the option, we suspect Fluffy wouldn’t hesitate to lock Fido out of the house … for good!

Master Teleportation

Have you ever thought your kitty was in one spot, only to find her unexpectedly somewhere else? We can’t confirm, but we do suspect that Fluffy has been secretly working on teleportation.

Please reach out to us, your local Roanoke, VA vet clinic, for all of your furry friend’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!

Dog Care, General Care

7 Ways To Help Rescue Dogs

May 20th is Rescue Dog Day. This is definitely a cause that we’re happy to support! Here, a Roanoke, VA vet lists some things you can do to help rescue dogs.

Adopt

If you really want to make a difference, the best thing you can do is give a lucky canine a great home.  Adoption is of course a huge commitment, so don’t proceed unless you are truly committed to caring for Fido for his entire life. That said, if all lights are green, go for it! Giving a rescue dog a second chance at happiness can be a beautiful and life-changing experience.

Foster

If adoption is too big of a commitment right now, consider fostering. You can still help a dog learn to trust humans, and help him get ready for his forever home. You also won’t have the long-term commitment that you would with an adoption.

Volunteer

Another great way that you can help rescue dogs is by volunteering at a local shelter or rescue. Even spending a few hours a week walking or playing with pups will make a difference. You may also be able to help by taking photos.

Craft

We’re still a ways off from National Craft For Your Local Shelter Day, which is in July, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still make things for rescued dogs. Turn an old T-shirt into a rope toy, or make a sweater into a bed. You’ll find lots more great ideas online!

Donate

Animal rescues and charities can always use a bit of help. Many of them rely on donations to keep their doors open. Providing food, shelter, and veterinary care for their furry wards can be quite expensive!  Of course, while financial donations are great, they aren’t the only option. You can also help by donating food, bedding, toys, or other supplies.

Events

Do you want to go all-out? Host an event, such as a yard sale or bake sale, and donate part of all of the proceeds to a rescue group.

Spread The Word

Sharing information about shelter dogs is also important. Spread the word on social media about rescue dogs and the people and charities that help them. You never know: you may change a pup’s life with a few quick posts!

Please reach out to us, your Roanoke, VA vet clinic, anytime. We’re happy to help!

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Health

Pet Dental Health Month

February is officially Pet Dental Health Month! Of course, your pet’s oral health is important all year long. Dental problems are very painful for pets, and can severely impact their quality of life. Read on as a local Roanoke, VA vet discusses caring for your pet’s teeth.

Common Problems

Some of the statistics about pet dental issues are quite staggering. For example, as many as 80 percent of adult dogs have periodontal disease. Kitties aren’t far behind: roughly 70 percent of cats aged three or over are afflicted. Periodontal disease—or gum disease, as it is also called, is very dangerous, as the bacteria and plaque can travel through Fido’s bloodstream, contributing to some very dangerous health issues. Cats are also susceptible to tooth resorption and feline stomatitis, which are both very painful conditions. Dogs, on the other hand, sometimes crack or break their teeth on hard objects. Some pooches—especially smaller breeds—are also prone to overcrowding. Abscesses and misalignments are also not uncommon.

Home Care

The best thing you can do at home is brush your pet’s teeth. Be sure to only use products made for pets. Human toothbrushes and toothpastes are neither safe nor suitable for our furry companions. If your pet won’t tolerate having their choppers brushed, look into other options. Dental flakes, dental-formula treats and chews, and oral rinses can all help keep your pet’s teeth healthy. You’ll also want to make sure that your pet always has fresh water. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Warning Signs

Keep a close eye out for signs of dental troubles. Bad breath is a very common one. You may also notice visible swelling and/or tartar buildup, or see bloody smears on your furry pal’s toys or dishes. Dental issues can also cause your pet to change their eating habits. They may dribble food, chew on one side of their mouth, or start preferring softer foods. Other warning signs include crankiness, withdrawal, and a reduced interest in play.

Veterinary Care

We recommend having your pet’s teeth checked at least once a year. This should start around age one. In between visits, keep an eye out for the symptoms we’ve listed above. If you notice any of those red flags, contact your vet right away.

Do you know or suspect that your pet has dental issues? Contact us, your local Roanoke, VA vet clinic, today!

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

5 Things That Are Good For Your Dog’s Teeth

Did you know that dental issues are one of the most overlooked aspects of dog care? Some of the most loving and attentive pet owners overlook their pups’ oral health. Fido can develop some very painful dental issues, so it’s very important for you to take care of his teeth. In this article, a Roanoke, VA vet lists some things that are good for your furry friend’s choppers.

Brushing

Fido’s toothbrush is your first and most effective weapon against doggy dental woes. Of course, you’ll need to get your pooch used to the idea. Start by just gently rubbing his teeth and gums. Then, slowly incorporate doggy toothpaste and, finally, a pet toothbrush. You don’t have to do your furry pal’s entire mouth every day. Just do one segment at a time, and keep rotating.

Fresh Water

Fresh water is crucial for many reasons, but it’s also extremely important for Fido’s oral health. Make sure your canine friend always has fresh, clean water. You may want to get Fido a pet fountain or an automated waterer.

Chew Toys

Chew toys help keep Fido’s bones and jaws strong. They stimulate the flow of saliva, which will help rinse food particles away. There are a few caveats here, however. First, be sure to get toys that are the right size for your furry buddy. Also, replace your pup’s toys when they start looking grimy.

Checkups!

Home care is important, but don’t forget about Fido’s dental exams. Most dogs should have their teeth checked at least once a year, starting at age one. If your canine pal is overdue for an exam, take a few minutes to schedule one today. You’ll also want to make an appointment if you notice any signs of dental trouble, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, swelling, and/or tartar buildup.

Doggy Dental Products

There are now quite a few products made with Fido’s oral health in mind. You can get your pooch kibble, treats, and/or chews that are specifically made to fight plaque and tartar. (Tip: try putting some pet toothpaste on a chew toy.) Dental flakes are another option. Oral rinses can also be very helpful in keeping your pup’s mouth healthy. Ask your vet for specific information.

Do you know or suspect that your pet has dental issues? Contact us, your local Roanoke, VA vet clinic, today!