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Preparing Your Pets for Winter
Winter storm Cato is heading up the east coast, and is expected to bring the first snow fall of the season to many cities. These conditions give us pause to consider the preparation for and well-being of our pets during these times of extreme weather. Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia. They should be kept inside. Long-haired and thick-coated dogs are more tolerant of cold weather, but no pet should be left outside for long periods of time in below freezing weather.
THE COCKER SPANIEL
Cocker Spaniel
Happy is one word to describe a cocker spaniel. This dog is active and will happily escort you to the park, play around in the yard, fetch a lost item or even go fishing. These dogs are trainable with a gentle charm that’s inviting to play. Their love for water is equal to wagging their tails which are their signature. The world loves this dog for its big ears, dreamy eyes and intriguing personality.
Brief History
There are two types of Cocker Spaniels: the English bred Cocker Spaniel and the American one but both descended from Europe, specifically England and Spain. The name Spaniel refers to a large Spaniel family dating back to antiquity. Spaniel itself means Spanish dog. In Spain, this dog was divided into two categories, toys and large hunting dogs. Hunting Spaniels were further divided into two categories, water and land Spaniels. The term Cocker refers to this dog’s excellence in hunting field woodcock.
American Spaniel fanciers began importing this breed in the late 1870s. In 1881, the American Spaniel club, the oldest breed club in America, was formed by James Watson and Clinton Wilmerding. This breed club comprised of many different types of Spaniel breeders. Later on, as the differences in the spaniel breed became refined, breeders split off into separate organizations. With time, Cocker Spaniels grew popular both with the public and with breeders. With this popularity came a much favored smaller type of this breed, which had a different conformation to the English Cocker.
In 1936 a specialty club known as English Cocker Spaniel Club of America was formed by English breeders. This club gained recognition at the American Kennel Club for their special type of English Cocker.
Physical Features
Cocker Spaniels belong to the sporting group and are perhaps the smallest members. They have a refined head, compact and sturdy body. They stand up well at the shoulder with muscular quarters that are moderately bent yet strong.
Average Height:
13.5-15.5 inches
Average Weight:
20-30 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-14 years
Temperament
If a Cocker Spaniel is well bred, it will exhibit a sweet endearing temperament. Its cuddly and affectionate nature makes it fun to be with and it will always participate in family activities willingly without a fuss. Spaniels are sensitive dogs both physically and mentally, they don’t respond well to harsh treatment because of their soft personality and if in pain they often resort to snapping or growling.
Special Needs
Cocker Spaniels don’t respond well to instructive commands, rather if you are training them, do it sensitively and with reassurance. They need to be socialized and trained at an early age to learn proper canine manners.
Possible Health Concerns
These are healthy dogs but like all other dog breeds, they remain susceptible to some diseases and conditions. These conditions and diseases are: Autoimmune hemolytic anemia, Hypothyroidism, allergies, Primary seborrhea, eye problems, ear infections, epilepsy, Patellar luxation and canine hip dysplasia.
Cocker Spaniel dog
Exercise
Due to their high energy levels, Cocker Spaniels need a daily exercise routine preferably 1- 2 hours every day. They are not picky and any fun exercise is ideal for them.
Nutrition
Spaniels have big appetites and are also protective of their food. The best food to feed them is dry food, 1.5 to 2.5 cups every day, though this amount will vary with the dog’s age, build, size, metabolism and activity level. Best to consult with your veterinarian.
Cocker Spaniel dog breed
Grooming
The Cocker Spaniel’s coat varies in length being short at the head and back. It grows longer on the ears, belly, chest and legs. The coat may be a solid color: light cream, white, black, red and brown, or parti-color which is two or more of these colors. Due to its varied length, it’s advisable to wash the coat using shampoo at least twice a week. Comb the coat daily and trim if necessary to maintain a certain desired length. Clean their ears and eyes daily and also brush their teeth twice or thrice a week.
THE CHIHUAHUA
The Chihuahua originated from Mexico and is named after its home state. Although its history is vague, it is believed that both the Toltec and the Aztec cultures raised small dogs called the Techichi. Many believe this breed is one of the ancient ancestors of the modern-day Chihuahua.
Brief History
The Techichi was refined by the Aztecs into a smaller dog breed over time and became an important part of their culture. This hardy little dog lived in small villages in the mid 1800’s when travelers from the U.S developed a liking to them in Mexico. The first Chihuahua was registered in 1908 with the AKC.
Physical Features
The Chihuahua is a compact little dog and often slightly longer than they are tall. This very feisty breed has a large, rounded skull with a short pointed muzzle and large, full eyes. Their ears are large and erect with outward-pointing tips. This breed has a long, thin tail which is either carried up or in a loop over their backs.
The Chihuahua typically has either a longhaired or a short, smooth coat. They also have a large ruff around the neck and feathering on the tail, feet, and legs.
This breed may be any color with a solid, marked or splashed coat. The most common coat colors found in Chihuahua’s are fawn, sable, red, black and tan, tricolor, and brindle.
Average Height:
6-9 inches
Average Weight:
2-6 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-20 years
Temperament
The Chihuahua has a ‘terrier-like’ attitude — a small dog with a big attitude! The Chihuahua is extremely alert, barks a lot, and is very sensitive to noise. This breed needs plenty of socialization around other dogs, animals and people from puppyhood.
The Chihuahua also does well with positive training which helps them socialize with other dogs and people. That said, this very self-reliant dog breed does not do well with children and prefers a relaxed household with an elderly adult.
If socialized from a young age, the Chihuahua is great with other animals, dogs and people, but will still need plenty of time to feel comfortable. If you’re looking for a feisty, yet sensitive buddy, the Chihuahua might be the companion for you.
This sensitive breed will need time to adjust to new surroundings and will be very nervous at first. It may take a few weeks for them to adapt, but once they’ve settled down, there’s no turning back. They have some big personality, loving companionship and lots of laughs.
Special Needs
This breed tends to get scared very easily and does not like loud noises. Pet parents need to be careful that Chihuahua does not run away when off-leash. Early socialization with other dogs, people and animals is highly recommended. Chihuahuas also tend to bark a lot when afraid.
Possible Health Concerns
The Chihuahua is an active dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Heart Problems. Mitral Valve Disease also known as MVD occurs when the mitral valve thickens and degrades over time. Coughing and difficulty breathing are symptoms.
Eye Diseases. Dry eye is a common eye problem in this breed and has the potential to cause blindness. Consult with your veterinarian if you notice excessive blinking, sticky or red eyes.
Patellar Luxation. This happens when the kneecap is dislocated. If left untreated it can lead to arthritis.
Exercise
The Chihuahua needs regular daily walks and off-leash trips to the dog park. Although this breed is small, exercise is crucial for good health and mental stimulation. That said, the Chihuahua enjoys going everywhere. Trips to the mall, bookstore and grocery store are always welcome! This breed also enjoys hanging out at home and is very easy to look after.
Nutrition
Some Chihuahua’s pick up weight easily, and can quickly become obese. Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet. Chihuahua pet parents should assess their dog’s activity level, age, breed, and any medical conditions that he or she may be prone to. Consulting with your veterinarian about the best high-quality food options will help to give your Chihuahua a longer and healthier life. Providing your Chihuahua with fresh fruits, salmon, chicken, vegetables, minerals and fiber are a plus.
Grooming
The Chihuahua does a fair amount of self-cleaning. That said, daily grooming is always recommended along with regular bathing, brushing teeth, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. Visits to the veterinarian are recommended for teeth cleaning twice a year. Dental hygiene is crucial in small dogs. The Chihuahua enjoys being bathed, and if long haired, does well at the groomers. Occasional shedding may occur!
Bad Dog Chronicles
We love dogs because they’re cute, cuddly, and loyal companions. But we also love them for the shenanigans they get into. From stealing food, to hiding behind the sofa, to creating embarrassing moments for their owners in the middle of the street, we can’t get enough.
THE BURMESE CAT
The Burmese originated from Thailand, near the Thai-Burma border. This cat breed was then developed in the U.K, and in the U.S. In 1871, Harrison Weir had a cat show at the Crystal Palace where two Siamese cats were shown. Both resembled the Burmese cat breed as it is today. It is almost similar to the Tonkinese cat breed. Dr. Cheeseman Thompson imported a cat called Wong Mau into San Francisco in 1930. This cat was a brown female cat that was different in build to the Siamese, and could be classified as a separate breed.
Brief History
The Burmese cat breed is believed to be related to a female Tonkinese cat called Wong Mau. This cat was imported in to the U.S in 1930, and in turn was bred with the American Siamese cat called Tai Mau, a sealpoint Siamese. The kittens were dark brown. U.S cat breeders then developed a breed standard that was different from the Burmese one. The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognized this breed in 1936. The CFA then suspended breed recognition a decade later due to extensive Siamese outcrossing. By 1954, the CFA lifted the suspension, and by 1958, the United Burmese Cat Fanciers (UBCF) set forth an American judging standard which still stands today.
Today, most modern cat registries do not recognize the two cat breeds as different breeds. The British breed is known as the European Burmese. The first Burmese cats were dark brown. Today, the Burmese comes in numerous colors. The Burmese is well known for its playful and social temperament. They are also very vocal.
Physical Features
The Burmese has two breed standards in which both head and body shape differs. The British (traditional Burmese) cat breed has a body that is slender, long-bodied, with a wedge-shaped head. The ears are large and pointed. The muzzle is long and tapering. The eyes are moderately almond-shaped. The eye color is gold or yellow. The legs are long, and the paws are oval. With a tapering tail of medium length, the British Burmese cat breed is a small to medium cat breed that is muscular and heavy. They are also silky soft when touched.
The American Burmese cat breed has a stockier build, with a much larger head, round eyes, and a much shorter, and flatter muzzle. The ears are also set wider apart, with the legs and tail proportionate to the body. In both breed standards, the breed is a muscular breed that is thicker in build, and heavy when picked up. The coat is thick and shiny, and looks like satin. Blue Burmese will have a medium colored blue coat. The nose and paw pads will be slate grey. Champagne colored Burmese will yield a honey beige coat color. The nose is brown and the paw pads pinkish, brown color. Platinum Burmese will be a silvery grey color. The nose and paw pads will be pinkish, lavender in color.
Average Height:
10-12 inches
Average Weight:
6-10 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-15 years
Temperament
The Burmese loves to gaze and admire the outdoors. This cat breed is laid back and fun. They adore affection, plenty of interactive cat toys, and cat trees with perches. These cats are great climbers that can be leash trained easily. This is an outgoing cat breed that delights in making new friends. They get on well with people, other animals that are not aggressive, and gentle children.
The Burmese loves to play, and will follow you for attention. An assortment of interactive cat toys is recommended for this cat breed. They enjoy being around family, and do not do well being alone all day. They are a one-person cat breed that bond closely with their pet parent. The Burmese is vocal, and are known to be persistent when trying to get your attention. This very intelligent and affectionate cat breed does well with apartment and indoor living. The Burmese may be prone to feline depression and anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. This cat breed does well with plenty of TLC! They do well with active families, and other pets.
Burmese cat
Possible Health Concerns
Gingivitis: With gingivitis, the gums will become inflamed because of plaque. By daily tooth brushing, dietary changes, using a plaque prevention gel, and oral rinses, you’ll be helping your cat.
Psychogenic Alopecia: This is when there is abnormal hair loss that is caused from excessive grooming. It may result from cat’s being stressed from other cats, dogs or people.
Cherry Eye (Eyelid Protrusion): This is a disorder of the third eyelid, resulting in swollen redness of the eye. It is more common in Persian- related cat breeds.
Cleft Palate: The Burmese may be prone to this birth defect. This is due to the palate bones not diffusing. Kittens will be unable to nurse if born with this defect.
Vestibular Disease: This is caused by a congenital abnormality. It may also result from trauma inside your cat’s ear. It may be caused by cancer or certain infections. It affects the nervous system in cats, and causes a lack of coordination.
Exercise
Your Burmese will scratch for numerous reasons, such as stretching and exercising their toes, shedding the dead outer layer of their claws, and to mark their territory. Free-standing scratchers are ideal for the Burmese, as well as cat condos that have designated scratching posts.
The Burmese cat breed needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people.
This cat breed is an intelligent and very affectionate cat breed that does well in most cat friendly environments. They still need to play and interact with people, and should not be left alone all day.
Grooming
The Burmese needs daily grooming to remove shedding or dead hair. Because this breed has a short and fine, soft coat, grooming is easy. Stainless steel combs help to remove dead hair. Care must be taken when grooming leg hair and body hair to avoid sensitive areas. Some cats have very sensitive areas along their backs, legs, and belly area. Curry brushes help with grooming, and will remove dead hair and debris from your cat’s coat.
With their intelligence and fun personalities, this vocal cat breed has plenty of attitude.
THE BRITISH SHORTHAIR CAT
The British Shorthair is an ancient cat breed that originated from the U.K. It is thought that this cat breed dates as far back as the first century AD. Historians believed that the Egyptians took domesticated Egyptians cats to the U.K, resulting in the interbreeding of these cats with the European wildcat population.
Brief History
The British Shorthair was the only pedigreed cat breed at cat shows during the Victorian era. During WW1 and WW2, the British Shorthair almost vanished, but thanks to cat breeders in the U.K, this breed was kept alive. By 1967, the British Shorthair was recognized by the American Cat Association. The Cat Fancier Association recognized this breed in 1980. Today, all cat associations recognize the British Shorthair. This cat breed is renowned for its strength and hunting ability. Many are under the assumption that this cat breed is blue in color. The British Shorthair comes in various colors of which blue –grey or “British Blue” is the most popular.
Physical Features
The British Shorthair is a large cat breed with a broad chest. Their legs are strong with large paws. The tail is blunt-tipped, and of medium- length. With a round head, and large round eyes, the British Shorthair has a short muzzle and round cheeks.
The British Shorthair matures slowly, and will reach peak physical development at three years of age. This is a dimorphic cat breed, in which males are larger than the females. The coat is plush and thick with no undercoat. There are noticeable “crisp” hairlines that are raised when the British Shorthair walks or runs. Coat colors can be found in solid colors, colorpoint, tabby, shaded, and bicolor patterns.
Average Height:
12-14 inches
Average Weight:
8-14 pounds
Life Expectancy:
14-20 years
Temperament
The British Shorthair is an intelligent cat breed that adapts easily to new surroundings, and enjoys being around people, even children. The British Shorthair gets along well with other animals like rabbits, dogs, other cats, and even horses. This breed tends to be clumsy, yet is moderately active. This is a kind and sweet-natured cat breed that is devoted to family. The British Shorthair does well with being an indoor cat.
british shorthair cat
Special Needs
The British Shorthair does best as an indoor cat. This breed thrives on affection, and plenty of cat toys. This breed is proud, and enjoys positive clicker training. It is non-aggressive with other cats. Eye tearing may be a problem with this cat breed. Inactive cats tend to pick up weight, and are prone to more medical conditions, like liver disease. Daily grooming needs to be a priority with this breed.
Exercising cats is more difficult than with dogs, yet cat parents can do so by purchasing certain cats toys to promote exercise.
Possible Health Concerns
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: This is a heart muscle disorder where the heart walls of the left ventricle thicken. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, weakness or paralysis of the hind limbs. Fluid may also accumulate in the lungs, and in the space between the lungs and chest wall.
Gingivitis: This is when the gums become inflamed due to bacterial plaque. Gum color in cats will change from a light pink to red or purple. The gum edge wills well. Symptoms include bleeding and bad breath. This can be reversed with proper teeth cleaning. However it can worsen and result in periodontitis.
Polycystic Kidney Disease. This occurs when there are numerous cysts within the functioning part of the kidney, resulting in enlarged kidneys. Consult with your veterinarian if your cat vomits frequently, has a decreased appetite, and increased thirst or urination.
Exercise
Playtime for indoor cats is extremely important.
The British Shorthair cat breed needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people.
This cat breed is a moderately active cat breed that thrives on being with family members. Cat gyms, cat scratchers, and interactive cat toys within a cat friendly home environment work best for this breed.
Grooming
The British Shorthair needs daily grooming for skin and coat health. Because this breed is a shorthair cat breed, taking care of this cat breed is super easy. This cat breed has a short and smooth coat. Ears should be checked weekly for cleanliness and sensitivity.
THE BOMBAY CAT
bombay cat
The Bombay cat was first bred by a Louisville, Kentucky cat breeder, Nicky Horner. She wanted a short-haired, black-eyed, mini panther-like cat that could live at home. She was also inspired by the black leopard of India.
Brief History
The Bombay has no link to wild cats. In 1953, the Bombay was created through selective breeding. Horner bred a black American Shorthair cat to a Burmese female that was a Grand Champion show cat. After a few generations, the Bombay breed was formed. This black cat looked like no other domesticated cat and received CFA Championship status in 1976. This Bombay is now recognized by all cat breed associations. The International Cat Association recognized them in 1979.
Physical Features
The Bombay has a sturdy and compact body of medium height. Their coats are short, flat and black, displaying the Bombay’s muscular form. There is no paling along the black roots of the coat. Their eyes are either copper or green and their nose, soles and mouths are black.
Average Height:
8 to 10 inches
Average Weight:
8 to 12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
9 to 13 years
Temperament
The Bombay is extremely friendly. This breed needs one-on-one time with its cat parents and does not do well alone all day. Curling up on their owners’ laps for hours is not uncommon. The Bombay needs plenty of love, fun cat toys, and mental stimulation. This breed is not very vocal.
bombay cat
Special Needs
Gingivitis: Regular dental care will reduce plaque development in your Bombay, which can lead to gingivitis and gum disease. With gingivitis, the gums will become inflamed because of plaque. Ligaments and bone are not yet affected. By including daily tooth brushing, dietary changes, using a plaque prevention gel, and oral rinses, you’ll be helping your cat. Consulting with your veterinarian for preventative cleanings every 3 months to save your Bombay’s teeth.
Sinus Problems: Viral infections are the most common causes of sinusitis in cats. Allergic sinusitis can occur seasonally or throughout the year. You cat may be exposed to indoor allergens like dusts and mold spores. Cats are prone to chronic nasal and sinus inflammation after severe acute viral infections. There may also be fungal nasal and sinus inflammation. Consult with your veterinarian.
Hip Dysplasia: This is rare in domestic cats, and is common in purebred cats. This occurs when the hip joint is loose, and leads to degenerative joint disease. (osteoarthritis) Symptoms include lameness that can be mild to severe. Cats generally need no surgery for hip dysplasia. Weight reduction can help reduce discomfort.
Possible Health Concerns
The Bombay is a healthy and moderately active cat breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
The Turkish Van is quite a healthy cat — there aren’t many health issues that affect this breed. Despite this, the Turkish Van can suffer from a condition that is known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This is an inherited genetic condition that require medical attention.
Exercise
When choosing cat toys for your Bombay cat, opt for toys that allow the entire family to play together.
The Bombay cat needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people. This cat breed is well-behaved and does well with routine. Cat gyms, cat scratchers, and interactive cat toys within a cat friendly home environment work best for keeping this playful breed stimulated.
Nutrition
All cat breeds need high quality fat and protein in their diets. They also need amino acids, including taurine that cannot be found in either human food or dog food. There are also numerous specialty diets for your cat that are formulated specifically for certain medical problems like urinary tract disorder, obesity, or kidney disease.
All cats do well by being fed twice daily. During kittenhood, kittens will need to be fed every few hours. Growing kittens need more calories, nutrients, vitamins, protein, and calories. Your Bombay should be able to enjoy a peaceful meal in a quiet corner of the house. Some cat parents prefer to leave cat food out 24/7. Consult with your veterinarian for the best dietary advice for your Bombay.
Grooming
bombay cat
The Bombay needs daily grooming to remove shedding fur. Because this breed has a short and sleek coat, minimal grooming care is required. Stainless steel combs help to remove dead hair. The Bombay is a cat breed that is always clean and shiny. Regular brushing will keep the Bombay’s coat sleek and shiny. Healthy nutrition also contributes to good coat health in cats. Consult with your veterinarian about safe and gentle ear cleaning techniques. Nail trimming is necessary every few weeks. Eyes should also be cleaned gently every morning with cotton wool or a soft wipe. Each eye should be cleaned with different wipes or cotton balls to avoid eye infection contamination in both eyes.
The Bombay is terrific companion and loving addition to any home. Remember that they thrive on attention!
CAT HEALTH: A CHECKLIST
All cat owners know cats are independent creatures and do not require a lot of your time. Cats love to sleep and hide in safe places; however, they also want and need attention. They need scratching posts, climbing towers, feeding, grooming and other loving care. Because of their independent nature and desire to be separated from human activity part of the time, many cat owners believe they do not have to interact with their cats on a daily basis. In reality, cats need daily attention from their human family to be at their best.
