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Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” collection, the place each Monday we carry professional recommendation directly from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to lend a hand our readers higher perceive their cat’s well being and well-being.
Whether or not you’re a brand new puppy mother or father or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is right here to supply solutions on your maximum urgent questions. From vitamin guidelines and preventive care to troubleshooting not unusual behavioral problems, Dr. Paola is able to be offering insights that can stay your kitty satisfied, wholesome, and tom cat tremendous. Keep tuned for professional steering on a variety of subjects that topic maximum to you and your cat, so you’ll make knowledgeable choices and give you the absolute best imaginable maintain your hairy significant other.
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Assist! My Hepper Walks Bow-Legged!
“ Hello. My male 18-month-old tuxedo cat is like a limo (or dachshund of a cat). His brother is long too, but Onyx is abnormally long. And has the lowest tail I have ever seen as well. My question is, can his length cause him extra spinal issues? He kind of walks bow-legged. And he and his brother were running around several months ago. Onyx hit the dresser hard and since then, he has had a tiny bump near his back. I am assuming like a bruise. How long could a bruise like this last? I am also wondering what kind of cat has a very long length as he does so I can research. I have looked everywhere, but can’t seem to find a guy that looks like him. His face looks similar to a Bombay and he has very very sleek medium hair and talks constantly with the tiniest meow. ” – Cathie
Hello Cathie,
I’ve by no means heard of an extra-long cat. Once we examine Dachshunds to the cat model, we’re typically having a look at Munchkin cats who’ve brief legs because of an agenetic mutation referred to as achondroplasia or chondrodysplasia. Because you don’t seem to be citing brief legs however bow-leggedness, I’m assuming Onyx’s legs are commonplace duration. It seems like Onyx has some bodily abnormalities, however understanding precisely what out of your description is sadly no longer imaginable.
Then again, you’re proper, pets with abnormally lengthy spines are extra vulnerable to affected by spinal problems, for instance, intervertebral disc illness. If we believe Onyx’s lengthy backbone is mixed with different anatomical permutations like a low-set tail or bow-legged gait we will be able to suppose there may be possible for added rigidity at the backbone and joints, which might result in discomfort or mobility demanding situations over the years.
Because you describe the twist of fate that took place months in the past and the bump remains to be there, the most productive factor you must do is get Onyx checked via a vet. They’ll want to do no less than some X-rays and perhaps even an MRI to diagnose what’s going on. After exam, the vet might also have the ability to provide you with a analysis of his situation.
By way of your description, it seems like he may well be a combined cat however if you wish to ensure about his genetic make-up you’ll via appearing a DNA check, and for this, you’ll get a package and don’t even want to get the vet concerned.
As an extra tip, I might suggest preserving a detailed eye on Onyx, paying particular consideration to his mobility, and reporting any adjustments in his job ranges on your vet. It’s essential additionally perform a little changes to your own home setting to verify there are not any extraordinarily top surfaces to leap from, including ramps for him to simply climb directly to couches or beds, upload some comfortable touchdown spaces, and even perhaps some safe playpens to attenuate the danger of injuries and collisions.
Easiest needs!Dr. Paola
Symbol Credit score: P. Bunjongpol, Shutterstock
Assist! My Hepper has a Bald Spot!
“Maverick is getting a bald spot between his shoulder blades just below his neck, he’s acting normal but I’m a bit concerned” – Nicholas
Hello Nicholas, there are a number of the explanation why Maverick might be getting a bald spot. The realm you’re describing is the place pour-on anti-flea remedies are positioned, so if he will get the ones, a response to them will be the first possible motive to rule out.
Moreover, you wish to have to look at his habits as there’s a chance that that is because of him rubbing this house towards any floor. You will have to additionally notice whether or not he could also be inflicting the fur on this house to fall off because of over the top stretching. If that’s the case, the realm can even glance purple and aggravated.
There might be many reasons of itchy pores and skin and secondary alopecia, with the commonest ones together with bacterial or fungal infections, fleas, and meals or environmental hypersensitive reactions. A talk over with to the vet to assemble samples is one of the best ways to get a definitive analysis and supply suitable remedy. Excellent good fortune!
Sincerely,Dr. Paola
Assist! My Hepper Likes to Bury All Her Toys!
“My cat loves to bury her toys in her bed or under a pile of blankets and then dig them out like it’s a treasure hunt. Is this normal?” – Deena (Mother of Sprinkles)
Hiya Deena, it seems like Sprinkles is enjoying. No want to be involved, simply benefit from the display!
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