FLEA CONTROL TODAY

Until recently flea control options were limited. Today we have much better understanding of flea cycle and a much better arsenal of safe, effective products. Pet owners need to understand a few key points to effectively prevent fleas:

PROTECTION STARTS WHEN PETS ARE YOUNG AND SHOULD CONTINUE FOR LIFE: Although climate and humidity vary, flea prevention should continue year around. Pets living indoors are at risk for flea exposure and benefit from year around treatment.

ADULT FLEAS ARE ONLY PART OF THE TREATMENT: Fortunately the newer products are effective against several stages of the flea cycle and attack the problem at multile levels. Because fleas are the most visible stages, pet owners discontinue the use of products if fleas are not seen. Pet owners should continue treatment even if fleas are not visible.

KNOW WHEN TO ASK FOR HELP: Fleas are not only a nuisance but they also cause flea allergy dermatitis, anemia, transmit tape worms, in cats Bartonellosis, constant misery and can lead to life threatening complications.

RESISTANCE IS A MYTH: Fleas are becoming resistant to flea products is a misperception. Pet owner non-compliance and not following product label instructions may cause product to not work efficiently.

Recommended environmental enrichment to reduce stress in cats:

1. avoid punishing the cat and remove threats

2. change diet to can food if acceptable to cat and owner

3. increase water intake resources

4. change litter to unscented, clumping variety if acceptable by cat and owner

5. institute improved litter box management

6. provide climbing structures, viewing and resting perches, and scratching posts

7. provide audio and video sensory stimulation when owners are absent from home

8. increase client interaction with cat

9. identify and resolve conflict in multiple - cat households

10. add pheromones to the environment

For more info please visit vet.ohio-state.edu/indoorcat.

SEPARATION ANXIETY

As Dr. Dodman (Tufts School of Veterinary Medicine and founder/director of Tuft's Animal Behavior Clinic) said "dogs suffering from separation anxiety are pesimists of the canine world who always expect the worst in any situation. Their worse fear is presumably that their owner has gone, never to come return".

These dogs seem to be more sensetive and anxious than their stable counterparts. Nature or Nurture must be involved and he thinks Nurture has the most profound impact.