Cat Ailments A to Z - Hyperesthesia

Also known as FHS - Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome
or
Twitch-Skin Syndrome
or
Psychomotor Epilepsy

I would call this the Jekyll & Hyde Syndrome.
At least when it comes to my cat Sebby.

So what is Hyperesthesia

The word Hyperesthesia means: Abnormally increased sensitivity of the skin.

Cats with Hyperesthesia  experience what seems to be an over sensitivity along their spine and around their lower back (tail)
The nervous and neuromuscular systems, along with the skin, are affected.
Symptoms may occur any age and can develop in any breed of cat.
Purebreds – especially Siamese, Abyssinians, Burmese, and Himalayans – seem to be predisposed to develop the syndrome

All will experience differing degrees of muscle spasms and twitches - this could also include twitching of the tail.
If your cat has the syndrome he/she may:

• Show sensitivity when any point along his spine or back is touched. 
• They may chase their tails
• Bite at themselves 
• Turn towards their tails and hiss, or meow, or run and jump - or do all of those things
• They may also seem to be hallucinating - following movement of things that are not there (creepy)
• During these episodes their pupils may be dilated (super creepy, that happens to Sebby)

In severe cases of feline Hyperesthesia, cats will self-mutilate by biting, licking, chewing and pulling out hair. These poor Cats suffer not only hair loss, but often severe skin lesions from trying too aggressively to seek relief from the uncomfortable sensations they experience. (Sebby does not do that part)

You can check on this site for a Video and explanation of how this is Diagnosed 

The same site also gives  you information regarding treatments.

This Syndrome is not very well known.. and understood even less.
Every site seems to give different explanations as to what happens- probably because each case is different.
Each animal has their own behaviours - so when the something occurs, each cat has a different reaction. 

 ************
I never really knew that this existed.
Sebby has always been strange.
Keyrah, another kitty that lives at my parents has also always been strange.
Both these cats more than likely have some form of this syndrome.
Though neither seem to be suffering, and they do not preform the more 'OCD' type licking and biting.
Neither have been diagnosed - If there were physical signs, or regular visual signs then I would take them in.
If I took them to see a vet...they look normal.. and I am just stressing them out ( which you are told to avoid)
I do not suggest leaving this unchecked if your pet seems to be suffering or is manically biting or chewing.

Sebby, well he is my bad boy.
He has the skin roll - you can see it like he just got a chill that rippled down his back.
His tail starts twitching..then wagging back and forth ....he seems rather pissed off that his tail is twitching.
Sometimes he kicks his feet.
Think of when you get your reflexes tested at the doctor and your leg jolts a bit when he hits your knee. That is what it seems like he is doing when his foot jolts.
Sometimes he meows, other times he looks ticked off at his foot or tail.
At times he bolts into another room.. not sure if he thinks maybe someone did something and he just didn't see them.
The part that freaks me out - and this doesn't happen a lot.. but enough that I know what to expect.
His pupils dilate - then he attacks Cubby. If Cubby isn't around.. and I am.. he may jump at me but generally doesn't connect because I saw the signs and I was prepared for his outburst.
He has scratched me, and snapped at me - guess I am lucky that he is actually not a mean kitty, he just can't help himself. 
If he is in another room and this happens.. he tends to just book into another room or up the stairs.
This lasts maybe a minute.
The random twitches are 10-20 seconds.. sometimes they go one every few minutes for a short time.
Just enough to annoy him. 

I was reading that some think it may be more of a seizure disorder.
That makes sense because when he gets all crazy.. he is in a zone.

Keyrah, she is more of the typical anxious type of cat. Always strange..way before I ever read about this - I would see her get in a fight with her back feet.
She would get annoyed with them. They would basically kick her.
She would be kicking herself..but it was as if she had no idea who was doing it.
It was highly amusing.. and now I feel bad for finding it amusing.
Other then those episodes, where she goes a few rounds with her feet - sometimes meowing when her foot gets a little too rough - and a few tail twitches, nothing else seemingly happens.
She is also not a chewer. I am thankful for that.


So if your cat bolts out of a room for no reason.. it could be a few things..

• Hyperesthesia
• Normal Cat Weirdness
• Ghosts

Sites with good information:
Cornell Feline Health Center 
Mercola Healthy Pets
Purely Pets ( Some Holistic Ideas)
VetInfo ( This one says it's also known as Cat Schizophrenia )
Cat World




If only they could stop creating new names for this syndrome....

Cat Ailments A to Z - Giardia

 

Giant Microbes Stuffie Giardia!

Giardia Intestinalis is a common, microscopic (intestinal) parasite that commonly affects humans, dogs, and cats.
Giardia prevents proper absorption of nutrients, damages the delicate intestinal lining, and interferes with digestion.

Signs

• Diarrhea 
• Gas
• Vomiting 
• Abdominal Discomfort 
• Abnormal Feces

Stool is Pale
Appears Greasy
Has Bad Odor

•  Weight Loss ( without loss of appetite )

 * It is also possible for a Cat to be infected and show no signs at all.


How is Giardia Transmitted 
 A cat becomes infected by eating the cyst form of the parasite. Which has been shed from another animal
 The cysts can live several weeks to months outside the host in wet, cold environments.
Such as:

• Grass
• Fields 
• Your Lawn or any Lawn
• Parks
• Kennels

Though I did not read this - I suspect that humans can track this into an environment such as a household by stepping in an animals waste.

Once a Cat ingests a cyst:

• In the small intestine it attaches itself to the intestinal wall then reproduce by dividing in two.
• How many times they reproduce is not really known
• At some stage, in an unknown location, this form develops a wall around itself (encysts) 
• It then is passed in the cats feces. 
• The Giardia in the feces can contaminate the environment and water and infect other animals and people.

 *It may be wise to know that they are not sure if this can be transmitted from Cats to Humans.
Considering that there are not many things that can be transfered.. and they are not saying no..
Assume it can be transmitted to humans

Testing for Giardia

Testing for this includes a physical exam to rule out other issues
A fecal test to locate the cysts is done - but they are very small and not passed with every stool
Giardia is a jerk
Apparently under the microscope Giardia is kinda cartoon looking

I agree.. if it wasn't such a jerk I would think it were cute!



Treatment 
There are a few medications mentioned - each seemingly with a few negative drawbacks.

Prevention
Check out this site, it explains how you can prevent and clean to eliminate Giardia
It also gives an explanation of the medications

 You can also read more on the CDC website

Cat Issues...

Hi!

Hi!

How are you?

Much better now!

That is awesome.

Who are you?

Uhh

Tree kitty?

That's not your name.

Well I have no idea what my name is.

Do you know my name?

Umm.. Tree kitty?

See!!!

I get it, so you need a name.

Can I pick it?

Maybe. What would you pick?

Batman!

Stuck in a tree?

Spider man!

STUCK IN A TREE????

I guess Bird man is out too.

You think?

Hey, I tried to get down. 

I know, I was watching.

It's hard!
People don't realize that cats don't do down! ( You can read about that here )

I think they are starting.

Well not enough.
I heard you guys talking down there. Hydro wouldn't come. 
Firemen wouldn't come
Humane Society wouldn't come.. sounds like they all think cats have no problem climbing down trees!

Well you proved them wrong!
Yes I ..hey!!

I am just messing with you. I know you tried.

I did, I really did. 

So back to the name.

Okay, well who was the person that got me down?

Kimberly.

Uh.. sorry I ain't calling myself Kimberly. 


 I agree..

Whats your  name?

I am called Human.

Oh.. clever. 


What street was I found on?

Simpson?

Naw, everyone would start calling me Homer. 

True.

Okay, I will leave it up to you. I am getting tired. 
Sitting in a tree all day freezing your paws off really takes a lot of energy.

I bet.. you also just rolled around in Cat Nip for a few miniutes.

Is that what that was? Big fan...

I just had a thought... what about Sampson?

I kinda like that.

Me too.. it's close to Simpson without being Bart related. 

Okay, my work here is done.. time so Zzzzz

Good night Sampson.

Cat Ailments A to Z - Fatty Liver

The actual  medical term for Fatty Liver is Hepatic Lipidosis

In regards to the liver - Fatty Liver is the most common severe liver disease in cats.

The liver's main functions include:

• Protein synthesis 
• Metabolism
• Emulsification of fats
• Production of coagulation factors (necessary for blood clotting)
• Decomposition of red blood cells. 

There is no way to compensate for the loss of the liver when it fails.

In humans, if there is a period of time where we go undernourished or unable to eat for some reason - our body will automatically move fat from its reserves to the liver to be converted into lipoproteins for energy.

Cat's bodies are not designed this way. 
If a cat goes through a similar period of starvation, the fat that is released does not get processed efficiently by the liver.
As the fat accumulates in the liver it becomes swollen and turns yellow.

As I have  mentioned times before - Cats are obligatory carnivores.
They need meat.
They have a high requirement for protein that needs to be met.
The lack of protein or the inability to process proteines will quickly develop into malnutrition.

This condition often occurs along side or due to:

• Periods of stress
• Changes in diet
• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• Cancer
• Aggressive weight loss attempts by owners
• Being Lost
• Liver Disease
• Pancreatitus

This generally effects middle aged cats but is not limited to this age range.
Rapid Weight Loss in Over Weight Cats can also cause Fatty Liver

 

Symptoms:

• Prolonged Anorexia ( no appetite or refusal to eat)
• Hiding in unusual places
• Weakness or lethargy
• Jaundice
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Dehydration
• Small fecal clumps in the litter box (due to lack of eating)
• Constipation
• Collapse
• Weight loss
• Muscle wasting
• A weakened neck- Downward Flexion (the head hangs down more than usual with a chin tuck) 
• Depression
• Rapid Weight Loss

When untreated or in severe cases — signs of liver failure can include:

• Black tarry stool
• Bruising (abnormal clotting)
• Coma (from the liver poisons building up in the body)
• Abnormal behavior progressing to seizures
• Death

 See here for was a vet can find a Diagnoses

Treatment 

Main treatment for this is having your cats protein requirements met immediately
How to do that requires many different aspects.
Treatment typically requires 24/7 care for several days to include the following:

• IV fluids to help treat dehydration
• Placement of a temporary feeding tube to provide adequate calories (this may be necessary for several weeks)
• Anti-vomiting medication
• Appetite stimulants
• Antibiotics
• Vitamin K (to help fix clotting problems if abnormal)
• Potentially plasma transfusions (if severe clotting problems are noted)

Recovery is seen in most cats - with veterinary care - within 3-6 weeks

Have you ever seen jaundice in a cat? 
I haven't so here are some images ( don't worry, none will be upsetting )

 Reminds me of holding a buttercup flower up to someones face
Or a Cheezie thief

The ears can't eat cheezies, so something is up.

Since cats generally do not eat the yummy mouth staining candy or drinks...Jaundice..

I don't like the pictures of the eye - so I will explain. If your cat has yellow where there is normally white - Jaundice




I came across something I have never seen before, and was very impressed.
If you ever have to put a kitty on a feeding tube- I am going to show you something that will hopefully help take the fear and possibly the distress away from having to do so.

This is the Kitty Kollar. 

It is designed for E Tubes - Esophageal feeding tubes.
The site has good information and worth a look (click on the picture to get to the site)

When we think about having to use a feeding tube for our cats... well it is not a nice thought.
Mostly because the idea of seeing our meows in any sort of distress causes us to basically become emotional wrecks.
If your vet suggests a feeding tube such as an E-Tube - breathe.. once the tube is in place and you have been shown how to use it...kitty will start feeling better.
When kitty feels better.. we feel better.
Personally I have no experience with feeding tubes - the thought, before seeing the kitty kollar was 3 fold
My Poor Meow!
Holy Crap I would totally do this wrong
I don't think I could look at my kitty every day and not become a basket case

We really need to use the cute factor more.
Seriously, it helps.
Oxygen masks for kids that are made to look like cute animals or something fun.
Walkers  and Wheelchairs for children that are designed to look like race cars or something less old man like.
If the Dentist had less scary equipment...naw.. I would still be terrified.
But you get my point. We are emotionally effected by visual things.
 

Cat Ailments A to Z - Electrocution

This probably happens so much more then we are aware.

Electrical Injuries Can Result In:

• Burns around Mouth
• Burnt Hair-Fur/Singed Hair-Fur
• Singed Whiskers 
• Seizures
• Muscle Tremors
• Collapse
• Pulmonary Edema
• Pulmonary Hypertension
• Cataracts 
• Tachycardia

Alterations to the Electrical Conduction in:

• Heart
• Muscles
• Tissue

Common Signs of Serious Electrical Injury

• Coughing
• Tachypnea
• Orthopnea
• Rales
• Dyspnea
• Cyanosis

What to do if you witness a cat being electrocuted ( besides freaking out and screaming )
 TURN OFF THE POWER
I realize this is not instinctual - you probably want to go directly to your kitty but STOP
If a cat has been electrocuted it may cause the jaws to clamp shut.
The live wires are still running electric currents through the cats body and you will get electrocuted.
You can not help your cat if you are laying injured on the ground beside them.

It may be simpler to just kick off the breaker.. being able to be alert enough to shut off the right outlet may be hard- when it doubt just go dark 
Yes it would be smart to have a flashlight handy..great idea.. but if you forget to plan ahead... just relax and find one after you have turned off the power.. in the dark... you have done it before. 

Assess cats alertness and breathing 
If your cat has lost consciousness, clear its airway as best as you can, and if necessary, provide breathing assistance and/or oxygen.

Wrap that kitty up and get it to the Vet.



What if you saw something happen but it did not seem to result in a catastrophic injury?

That is not something I am willing to decide - that is your call.
Just remember -
Cats are masters of hiding pain
You have no idea what is going on internally


How to prevent this from happening 

 

Hey, that stuff is kinda neat! Amazon has everything...

Also

Baby Proof

You have a tiny toddler teething - it just happens to be a kitten.

Kittens are better then babies!

Cat Ailments A to Z - Distemper

To confuse everyone..
Distemper is FPV - Feline Panleukopenia Virus
Parvovirus is the initiating cause of FPV
Parvovirus is also known as Feline Infectious Enteritis & Feline Panleukopenia Virus, which is Distemper

So - Parvovirus, FPV, and FIE for my sanity...and yours... will today be known as DISTEMPER

Distemper is a highly contagious and life-threatening viral disease in the cat population. This virus affects the rapidly dividing blood cells in the body, primarily the cells in the intestinal tract, bone marrow, and in the stem cells of the developing fetus. Because the blood cells are under attack, this virus can lead to an anemic condition, and it can open the body to infections from other illnesses – viral or bacterial
-PetMD


Distemper in pregnant queens may result in abortion, or other ways in which the pregnancy does not produce live kittens.
If the kittens are born alive, they usually have Cerebellar Hypoplasmia and/or Retinal Dysplasia.
If the mother has passed on the infection to the kittens later in her gestation, the kittens may well be born alive.
These kittens have a very high change of being born with Ataxia, this could also appear up to two weeks old.
This would remain for their lives.
There is also a possibility of brain damage or abnormalities of the retina.

Well all of that sounds horrible!!!

Feline panleukopenia infection in pregnant queens may result in abortion, foetal resorption, foetal mummification, and other reproductive problems. If foetuses are born alive, they usually have cerebellar hypoplasmia and/or retinal dysplasia. If the mother has passed on the infection to the kittens later in her gestation, the kittens may well be born alive. They may appear well at birth or signs of ataxia (loss of coordination/clumsy motion) appear around 2 weeks.

Kittens who survive may have ataxia for the rest of their life. They may also have abnormalities of the retina.  Kittens may be severely brain damaged.

- See more at: http://www.cat-world.com.au/feline-panleukopenia-virus#sthash.KSaHxwKv.dpuf

Feline panleukopenia infection in pregnant queens may result in abortion, foetal resorption, foetal mummification, and other reproductive problems. If foetuses are born alive, they usually have cerebellar hypoplasmia and/or retinal dysplasia. If the mother has passed on the infection to the kittens later in her gestation, the kittens may well be born alive. They may appear well at birth or signs of ataxia (loss of coordination/clumsy motion) appear around 2 weeks. - See more at: http://www.cat-world.com.au/feline-panleukopenia-virus#sthash.KSaHxwKv.dpuf

Once a cat survives a bout of distemper they become immune to it. 

Yay!

But getting it can kill them.

Boo!

But there is a vaccination for it!

Yay!

Not all cats are vaccinated in time.

Boo!

Generally adult cats fare well.

Yay!

Kittens not so much.

Boo!

But kittens basically have immunity for the first eleven weeks of life.
Yay!
(Not including kittens who have been born from a mother with distemper)

But they are highly vulnerable between the 11 to 16 week period.

Is there any just good points?????

Other than immunity? Nope..

 Immunity

An easy way to think about this is to consider Chicken Pox
Once you have had Chicken Pox you, 99% of the time can never get it again!
1%  of the time I blame aliens.

Same goes for Cats in regards to Distemper
Including the 1%
Odd 1% but like I said..

Though the cat becomes immune - the environment does not.
From what I have read, this virus can live in an environment anywhere from a year to three.
Resilient jackass!

• It survives well in lower temperatures  
• Is not killed by many of the common disinfectants. 
• Clean surfaces  with a bleach solution of 1/2 cup of bleach to a gallon of water
• Allow it to sit for 10 minutes and it will inactivate the virus. 

Pet Education

Vaccinating has decreased the prevalence of this once very wide spread virus.

Vaccinations - there are differing beliefs on when and how many vaccinations a cat should get.
There are core vaccines, which all kittens should get if they happen to have a family to do so.

I am not a Dr, nor do I play one on the internets...but if a vaccination has the ability to actually prevent something then I am all for it.
Now saying that... included in the vaccinations are vaccines you may not believe are as important. This is where you get your vet to explain the important... because I believe other than Rabies - the rest are your choice? I am doubting myself on that.. there may be a few others that are mandatory.

What physically are the Signs of Distemper?

 

The symptoms of panleukopenia can be similar to those seen in dogs with parvo or canine distemper 

The incubation period (time from exposure to the virus development of symptoms) is 4-5 days

•  Fever of 104-107
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea/possibly bloody
• Seizures
• Depression
• No Appetite 
• Dehydration
• Cats who are severely tend to lower their head over their water bowl but not drink
• Hypothermia
• Weakness
• Comatose 
• Possibly develop Bacterial Infection 

 
These symptoms appear so suddenly, some owners think their cat has been poisoned.

• Cats who survive the symptoms for longer than five days will usually survive, but complete recovery , going back to their normal weight and energy level may take several weeks. 

I never mentioned things you can do for a cat with Distemper- firstly take the cat to the vet!!

They can administer fluids which is probably one of the most significant ways to combat dehydration.

Other issues brought on by their compromise immunity will also need to be dealt with by a vet. 

Well that was a bleak blog post.. so let me end it with this...

 A Russian Ska-Punk band named Distemper ...and they are wearing matching outfits.

Cat Ailments A to Z - Coccidia

An intestinal parasite that attacks the intestines of the feline causing diarrhea and often produces a rancid smell along with a very watery, mucus like substance. At times when the infection has progressed, cats become unable to control their bowels and defecate places other than their litter box - not by choice.
These poor babies have no way of stopping the diarrhea.

Dehydration is common when dealing with diarrhea.
If not treated, this can lead to more serious ailments in your cat.
Not to mention of the havoc it is wreaking on your poor kitties innards.

Along with those yucky problems, your cat may also be come feverish and start to vomit - adding to the likelihood of dehydration.

A kitten is not born with the coccidia organisms in his intestine. However, once born, the kitten is frequently exposed to his mother's feces, and if the mother is shedding the infective cysts in her feces, then the young animals will likely ingest them and coccidia will develop within their intestines. Since young kittens, usually those less than six months of age, have no immunity to coccidia, the organisms reproduce in great numbers and parasitize the young animal's intestines. Oftentimes, this has severe effects. PetEducation

There are several species of coccidia. Only Cystoisospora (formerly known as Isospora) felis is directly transmitted by fecal contamination from cat to cat. Other species use birds and animals as intermediate transport hosts. These species complete their life cycle when the transport host is eaten by the cat. Kittens acquire Cystoisospora felis from mothers who are carriers. WebMd

• The incubation period - meaning from time of exposure to onset of illness is about 13 days. 
•  Most disinfectants do not work well against coccidia
• Coccidia can withstand freezing.
• Wash all bedding in the hot cycle 
• Maintain a clean environment, remove feces from litter box as soon as possible
• Keep food and water at a distance from the litter box and make sure they do not come in contact with any feces that may have traveled from paw to bowl. 

Since the most likely to be affected are young kittens you must keep on top of their hydration.


*Something very helpful that I have used when an animal is dehydrated is Pedialyte - parents will know what this is because its main use is for children who have the flu or diarrhea and need to replace their electrolytes. 
This is sold in a rather large bottle - which sucks when you realize it is only good for a short period after it is opened... but I hear freezing it in ice cube trays can extend its use ( I don't know for fact )
This is Pedialyte 

A trip to the vet is warranted. There the vet can prescribe kitty some antibiotics.

The acute phase of this can last up to 10 days - without treatment a young kitten could be a high risk for serious problems.

• Cats can be carriers and not show any signs
• Kittens can seem fine and two weeks later start showing signs. 
• Since this is highly contagious it is imperative that you  keep on top of cleaning and medication or you may be in for another round. 

Some tips

• Keep cats in a confined area - like a room or a roll away cage if you have one.
• Get pee pads...accidents may happen and it is much simpler to clean.
• Clean that litter box constantly - buy cheaper litter and dump the box more then normal
• Thoroughly clean the box between changes  - dollar stores sell cheap boxes so buy a few and make it simpler for yourself.  
• Keep kitty clean.. if your kitten gets any poop on its self.. which may happen..clean up kitty as soon as you spot it. Check if kitty has made a path where it walked as well. 
• Kitty is going to have a very sore bottom. Care for it as you would a child - vaseline, diaper rash cream..speak to your vet they have suggestions. 
• Water...make sure kitty has water! 
• Bland food - stay away from the richer foods and stick to the basics - your vet may have advice on this as well. I have used pumpkin and rice mixed with chicken or turkey wet food. 

Keep close watch on kitty for dehydration 

• Skin turgor test: To check for dehydration grasp some skin at the scruff of the neck and gently pull it up. In the hydrated cat, the skin will spring back immediately. In a dehydrated cat, the skin will be slower to retract. The more severe the dehydration the slower the skin will take to retract.
  
  
  Capillary refill time: This helps you to test your cat's blood circulation and can indicate dehydration, heart failure or shock. To test capillary refill time life your cat's upper lip and press the flat of your finger against the gum tissue. Remove the pressure and you will see a white mark on the gum where your finger was placed. Using a watch with a second hand, time how long it takes for the pink colour to return to the white spot. In the healthy cat it should take around 1 - 2 seconds to return to pink. 
  CatWorld 
  
  
  And just give your meow lots of love and attention.

Cat Ailments A-Z - Bordetella

Sounds like cheese... isn't. 

Caused by the bacteria- Bordetella Bronchiseptica - is thought to possibly be the primary cause of respiratory disease in cats or it may run as a concurrent infection with viral infections such as Calicivirus and Feline Herpesvirus.

 This jack ass of a bacteria is passed via aerosol 

If you are like me and think of hair spray when the word aerosol is mentioned...we are speaking of coughing and sneezing.

So basically ..

but from...

Very easy to transmit - super easy. 

Another way this can be transmitted ...

by the super cute and innocent K9

That's right. You can send your doggie to day care and it can come back with Kennel Cough.

Puppy sneezes and poof... kitty has been exposed. 

It's just that easy. 

Horrible isn't it!

There is a vaccine for Kennel Cough that I believe is mandatory if you are going to be boarding your dog in a facility. 

But I am not 100% sure on that. 

I know they are not asking cats for it. 

Though if they actually asked the cats.. chances are they would lie.. because they are cats. 

Symptoms 

• Coughing - though I can not think of how cats cough so that may be more of a human thing...unless you count hacking .. I have heard that. 

• Sneezing- I freak out a little every time I hear a cat sneeze.. keep in mind that sometimes sneezing has nothing to do with illness - unless it is constant then chances are rather high that there is an issue.  
• Nasal Discharge - snotty nose... runny nose, if only they could blow their nose. 
• Ocular Discharge - fancy way of saying eyes running - crusty in the corners.. inflamed. Over all yucky and very sore looking. But it starts out looking like they have been crying or are starting to cry. Maybe they are.. :( 
• Anorexia - that is a bit misleading, they do not become anorexic - they lose their appetite - probably because they feel like crap.. and they can't smell their food which deters them from eating. 
• Lethargy - Question.. how do you tell if a cat is being lazy, lethargic or acting like a cat? It can be difficult to notice in an older cat - but it will be very apparent in a kitten. 

       This is where knowing your cat becomes very important. For instance - if 
       I tossed a bottle cap in the room by Willow and she didn't pounce on it
       I would worry. Cubby, my old man kitty does very little so how would I 
       be able to tell? Honestly, I would have to see something visual like 
       a runny nose or eyes watering. 
       ( Lethargy is usually listed as Depression but I think lethargy is simpler 
       to understand. Besides... a depressed cat? It's part of being a cat!)

• Fever - Don't use this as a guide because the only reliably way to tell if your cat has a fever is by using a thermometer ...and not the mouth kind. If your cat is not eating and is lethargic then chances are it has a fever so take kitty to the vet - They can check for fever there....
• Swollen lymph nodes  - check now when they are not sick - under the jaw by the neck - basically the human version is the throat by the jawline. Now that you have a frame of reference it will be easier to feel a difference. If they are swollen you can feel lumps about the size of a chewed up piece of gum ( I could not think of something that was bigger then a pea but smaller then a gumball) That indicates that your feline is not feeling well.. so get it to the vet. 

If you miss these signs - it happens, cats are fantastic at hiding things- you will not miss the next stage of signs which include projectile snot. 
Visually it is very hard to ignore the swollen eyes and constant sneezing. 
The cats nose gets very raw and sometimes the skin cracks causing it to bleed. 
The eyes are a horrid site - swollen and very sore looking. Sometimes swollen shut.
Unfun...very unfun for Kitty. 
Not all that fun for kitty parent either. 

Reading those symptoms - it is very hard to tell which illness I am speaking of because there are a few that sound exactly like that!

A vet can take a nasal swab to determine which bacteria they are dealing with. 

But wait!

Your kitty does not need to be showing signs in order to pass this to another meow. 

A Cat can be a carrier, showing no outward signs. They can pass on the infections to other kitties. 

Though it is never fun for any cat to deal with this - it is even harder for young kittens. 
A kitten may appear to be doing okay with the infection one moment - then drastically decline. 

If left untreated this can lead to Bronchopneumonia - which can lead to death.  

Get into see the vet as soon as possible. The faster you catch it, the sooner it can be treated and that means the less time your kitty will have to endure this evil infection.
  

Here are a few more links 
Cat-World 
Merck Animal Health 
PetMD
CatInfo

Cat Ailments - A to Z - Amphetamine

This of course will not be a complete list - just one of each letter. 

The links should give you more information on other ailments. 

For information purposes only. 

• Dextroamphetamine
• Levoamphetamine
• Lisdexamfetamine
• Methamphetamine
• Adderall
• Adderall XR
• Dexedrine
• ProCentra
• Dextrostat
• Ritalin
• Concerta
• Vyvanse
• Focalin
• Strattera

Above is a list of medications that are legally prescribed that are considered amphetamines.
Though cats are smart creatures - it is not beyond them to eat a pill. Lick a pill. Find and play with a dropped pill.
You do not want kitty involved with drugs ( other than catnip)...in any way shape or form.

Drugs are bad..
We all know this, but kitty is not aware.
Kitty is like a constant toddler.

We tend to worry less when it comes to cats because the are less likely to eat pills then dogs.
This way of thinking needs to stop - though a cat may be less likely - it just takes that one time when they find a pill that for some reason they are drawn to.

ADDERALL XR - for some reason cats find this pill appealing - if you are taking this pill or someone in your house is - make sure you keep it up and away from cats.  

These medications - all medications should be kept safely away  from children and animals...and teenagers..

Seriously... these meds are in high demand and you need to lock them away.

Most cases of Amphetamine poisonings are accidental..
But...
People suck.. and sometimes people want to get kitty high. Those people may need to be punched in the face. 

Allowing an idiot into your home who would possibly harm your pets by giving them drugs is your fault. 
You are in charge of caring for these animals. 
They depend on your ability to do so!
Inviting a person into your home that can hurt them is not caring for their well being. 
The person who gives your pet drugs -that is their fault - and they should be held accountable - but take care of the cat first.  

Symptoms of Amphetamine Poisoning in Cats 

• Restlessness
• Panting
• Hyperactivity
• Sedation
• Agitation/irritability/aggression
• Muscle tremors
• Seizures
• Increased heart rate
• Dilated pupils
• Elevated blood pressure
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drooling
• Death

 Because a Cat can respond in both a sedated or hyperactive way - it may not be clear what is wrong.
Actually all of these symptoms can be linked to many other things - so knowing your cat, and knowing how much medication you have in your house at all times is very important.

• A lot of AD/HD medications are prescribed to school aged children. 

It is your responsibility to manage those pills.
It is also up to you to explain to your kids the dangers of leaving these medications out around pets. 

If you have teenagers,  they need to be informed.
Of course you do not want them doing drugs - drugs are bad.
They still need the information.
Maybe they have a friend .. who has a friend..that may be involved in something ...who knows.
Chances are they don't even know which drugs are considered Amphetamines.
For your own information ..Click Here

I do not generally post information on how to induce vomiting because you should never induce vomiting if you are not aware of what your animal ingested. 
Always call your vet - this is not a cure all
But in certain cases it may save your pets life - so I will post the link on how to induce vomiting.
Information


A quick search online will let you know if the drug ingested is poisonous to your cat - here is a rule of thumb...suspect YES and hope for NO
Regardless call your Vet - just because google says its okay does not mean that your pet is fine. What if they are on a medication that can be fatal if mixed with another med that may not be fatal on its own?


Pet Poison Helpline
Animal Poison Control Center

When the Human goes away...

   Human - Sebby - Willow
**********************
So the prodigal Human returns...

I was gone for a day.

You say that like it's okay!

It was only a day!

Only???   There could have been a tidal wave!

A hurricane!

Aliens could have abducted us!!

We live no place near an Ocean

There is no chance of a hurricane in this location.

And excellent, finally you can be reunited with your  leader.

You so funny.

Don't change the subject human!

Where were you? 
Why did you leave?

And most importantly..

What did you get us.

I was away.

Because I had to.

Nothing.

Wow. You are on thin ice.

Am I?

And what is your furry little but going to do.

It's gonna... I'm gonna...we're gonna..

I'm not telling!

Sure thing Sebby.

The house was invaded.

No it wasn't.

How would you know!

Okay, who invaded and what did they take?

A lady! She fed us.. 

How dare she!

She took my picture!

Unheard of!

You mean this picture?

What The!
How did you...
I don't..
You sent in a spy!

Yah. That's what I did.
I sent in a spy to feed you.

I knew it all along. 

That's why I told her those things. 

I knew she was working for you all along.

Ha.. yeah totally knew.. this was all just a joke. 

A joke .. I was pulling your leg. 

Oh okay, because she did mention that you said you owned the place. 

That I was a guest.

A guest that you let stay as long as I did the cleaning and fed you. 

That you were actually my boss. 

 

Lies. I would never say that. 

Ridiculous lies. 

She was totally drunk.

You should not listen to a thing she says. 

 

I will mention that to her, specially the part about her drinking. 

She told me she had the flu, so I will let her know that you caught her lying. 

 

Nooo, no need. She does not need to know I said that. 

I  mean, it could embarrass her.

Naw, that can be our secret. 

 

So you don't want me to say anything?

I was just going to call her. 

I'm gonna call her. 

 

Uh.. umm

OHH NOO WILLOW IS CHOKING 

DROP THE PHONE QUICKLY AND HELP HER!!

 

Don't involve me in your lies. 

I like the visitor Human. 

Sebby.

 

What.

 

You're lying.

 

Sorry, I can't hear you. 

 

Sebastian!

 

FINE YES!

 

Happy now?

 

Yup.

 

Next time bring us back stuff. 

And Willow stole a bag a treats off the counter. 

You Rat!

Illustrated Kitty

The Catvengers

The Meowvengers is what I would have called it... but naming something and being able to draw something are two hugely different things. 

Batcat and Bane

I think I love this!

Star Trek Cats

Spock is freaking awesome !

Jenny Parks illustrated these three - and many more !

You can get these on t-shirts as well!!

***********************************

A Whole New No

Bella No

Someday My No Will Come

Tsao Shin created these three and many more illustrations that are available on Deviant Art.

Grumpy Cat, you slay me.. 

************************************

Ninja Cat

Robot Kitten Hug

Spideycat

These three cute prints were created by Alana McCarthy

Geeky Pet can be found - and prints can be purchased on Etsy

Just wondering...

What exactly is Catnip ?

A plant.. or Herb
What? I said exactly!

Catnip is a plant from the Mint Family. 

Common names:
Catnip, Catnep, Catmint, Catrup, Catswort

Scientific name:               

Nepeta Cataria

Explanation of scientific name:       

Nepeta  - from Nepete, a city in Etruria, which was an ancient country in central Italy now forming parts of Tuscany and Umbria.
Cataria  - an old generic name for Catnip.  The name Cataria is from the Latin “catari”, meaning of a cat.

• What intrigues the meows is not the leaf, not the root..not even the bud.It's the oil. 
• A component of the oil called Nepetalactone.

Chemical Name -  Nepetalactone, (5,6,7,7a-Tetrahydro-4, 7-dimethylcyclopenta[C] pyran-1-(4aH)-one)

Chemical Formula - C10H14O2



Its chemical structure is similar to that of the valepotriates derived from the herb valerian, which is a mild central nervous system sedative (or stimulant to some persons).

• Not all kitties like Catnip.. though 70 to 90 % of them do. 

The % seems to vary based on who is stating the claim.. it seems to go as low as 50%

• Length of kitty high is about 5 to 15 minutes 

- Did not know that. 

• Also they can not get a reaction for up to an hour or more after the initial high. 

- Did not know that!

•  Some Cats react badly to Catnip turning aggressive

-Absolutely knew that..Sebby!! 
Oddly enough this does not happen with every brand of catnip. I have found one brand that I stick to that he does not get aggressive on. 
-Cosmic Catnip
Why? no idea! 

But considering there are types of weed that give you different reactions, or a different buzz...I can possibly see a similarity.

• Some companies or people selling the catnip will 'cut' it with straw or some other filler. 

If you wondered why Fluffy, who adores catnip is turning its nose up at the toy you just got...you basically bought the cheap stuff and kitty knows. 

• Catnip is widely available and not overly expensive. 

-You can grow it yourself
-You can buy it at the Dollar Store... though you may be wasting your money. 
-For a little but more  you can buy the brand name stuff that tends to be of a higher quality. 
 

For me it has to pass the Sebby test. 
The Sebby test is not fun.
He attacks me, or the other cats, but generally me because I am trying to save the other cats. 

This goes for catnip toys as well. 

Sebby makes me buy the good stuff. 
Since I fear him... I get the good stuff. 

• From what I am reading it seems as though cats react to catnip as if they were in heat.. without the sexual drive. 

I wonder if the human version of that would be the giddy dumbass feeling you get when you see your crush? ( or current partner if you are not sick of them)
Slightly euphoric with a sprinkle of complete moron. 
The movie version of course.. where you are so captivated by the person that you walk into a door or post. 

• They also tend to awaken their playful side and arouse their hunting instincts.

 -My guys tend to 'kill' their toys.
If I use loose catnip they are more likely to roll in it and eat it. 

The Good Stuff

 

They sell catnip in other various forms such as:

Organic Buds

Etsy is a wonderful site to find organic everything!

Basically it means that they have not added anything to it such as any sort if chemical spray or pest deterrent during cultivation.

At least that is my theory. 

*******

Infused in Bags

Scratch & Sniff

I think these last 2 items are super ideas. 

I have yet to try them... but it is on my to do list. 

Well it's on my cats to do list.

 ********

Stuffed Toys

Yeowww! is a brand that goes over well with the kitties. 

I have yet to Sebby test it.

Having some of the foster cats be in a different room allows for usage of any nip I choose. 

Also the adoptable kitties at Pet Valu tend to get a variety of toys and they enjoy the Yeowww!

*******

Sprays

 

 

 My thoughts on the sprays are as follow

Maybe, sometimes & at least it does not leave a mess. 

It works, but not like the original catnip. 

It is great for spraying on scratching posts to peak a cats interest.

I just do not tend to see the same crazy fun reaction.

*********

They also sell catnip in various other formats like bubbles, crinkle papers, wands, compacted balls...anything you can think of basically...

I have found my answer....

And the answer is yes.

Actually, the answer is - We humans like to think of catnip as weed for cats. 

But

NEVER GIVE ACTUAL WEED TO CATS

NO POT FOR KITTY

NO MARIJUANA FOR THE MEOWS

It is TOXIC

It has a toxicity level of moderate to severe

 Dogs and cats can be poisoned by marijuana from second hand smoke exposure, or from direct ingestion of marijuana or baked foods (e.g., pot brownies, pot butter, etc.) laced with THC. 

Clinical signs can be seen within 3 hours, and include severe depression, walking as if drunk, lethargy, coma, low heart rate, low blood pressure, respiratory depression, dilated pupils, hyperactivity, vocalization and seizures. Vomiting is often seen with dogs despite the “anti-emetic” (anti-vomiting) qualities of THC. 

Pet Poison Helpline

Get your pet to a vet

If you, yourself are high then call a friend to get your pet to the vet.

Don't be stupid.