Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” sequence, the place each Monday we deliver professional recommendation straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to assist our readers higher perceive their cat’s well being and well-being.
Whether or not you’re a brand new pet mum or dad or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is right here to supply solutions to your most urgent questions. From vitamin ideas and preventive care to troubleshooting frequent behavioral points, Dr. Paola is able to provide insights that may preserve your kitty glad, wholesome, and feline advantageous. Keep tuned for professional steerage on a variety of matters that matter most to you and your cat, so you can also make knowledgeable selections and supply the very best care to your furry companion.
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Assist! My Cat Walks Bow-Legged!
“ Hiya. My male 18-month-old tuxedo cat is sort of a limo (or dachshund of a cat). His brother is lengthy too, however Onyx is abnormally lengthy. And has the bottom tail I’ve ever seen as effectively. My query is, can his size trigger him further spinal points? He sort of walks bow-legged. And he and his brother had been operating round a number of months in the past. Onyx hit the dresser onerous and since then, he has had a tiny bump close to his again. I’m assuming like a bruise. How lengthy might a bruise like this final? I’m additionally questioning what sort of cat has a really lengthy size as he does so I can analysis. I’ve regarded in all places, however can’t appear to discover a man that appears like him. His face seems much like a Bombay and he has very very modern medium hair and talks always with the tiniest meow. ” – Cathie
Hello Cathie,
I’ve by no means heard of an extra-long cat. After we evaluate Dachshunds to the cat model, we’re normally Munchkin cats who’ve quick legs as a consequence of an agenetic mutation often called achondroplasia or chondrodysplasia. Since you aren’t mentioning quick legs however bow-leggedness, I’m assuming Onyx’s legs are regular size. It feels like Onyx has some bodily abnormalities, however understanding precisely what out of your description is sadly not potential.
Nevertheless, you’re proper, pets with abnormally lengthy spines are extra vulnerable to suffering from spinal issues, for instance, intervertebral disc illness. If we think about Onyx’s lengthy backbone is mixed with different anatomical variations like a low-set tail or bow-legged gait we will assume there may be potential for extra stress on the backbone and joints, which might result in discomfort or mobility challenges over time.
Because you describe the accident that occurred months in the past and the bump remains to be there, the very best factor you might do is get Onyx checked by a vet. They might want to do no less than some X-rays and probably even an MRI to diagnose what’s going on. After examination, the vet may be capable to provide you with a analysis of his situation.
By your description, it feels like he is likely to be a combined cat however if you wish to make sure about his genetic make-up you’ll be able to by performing a DNA test, and for this, you may get a equipment and don’t even must get the vet concerned.
As a further tip, I’d advocate holding an in depth eye on Onyx, paying particular consideration to his mobility, and reporting any adjustments in his exercise ranges to your vet. You can additionally do some modifications to your private home setting to make sure there are not any extraordinarily excessive surfaces to leap from, including ramps for him to simply climb on to couches or beds, add some comfortable touchdown areas, and maybe even some safe playpens to reduce the danger of accidents and collisions.
Greatest needs!
Dr. Paola
Assist! My Cat has a Bald Spot!
“Maverick is getting a bald spot between his shoulder blades just under his neck, he’s appearing regular however I’m a bit involved” – Nicholas
Hello Nicholas, there are a number of the explanation why Maverick could possibly be getting a bald spot. The realm you’re describing is the place pour-on anti-flea treatments are positioned, so if he will get these, a response to them can be the primary potential trigger to rule out.
Moreover, it’s worthwhile to observe his habits as there’s a chance that this is because of him rubbing this space towards any floor. You must also observe whether or not he could also be inflicting the fur on this space to fall off as a consequence of extreme stretching. If that’s the case, the world may also look crimson and irritated.
There could possibly be many causes of itchy skin and secondary alopecia, with the commonest ones together with bacterial or fungal infections, fleas, and food or environmental allergies. A go to to the vet to gather samples is the easiest way to get a definitive analysis and supply applicable remedy. Good luck!
Sincerely,
Dr. Paola
Assist! My Cat Likes to Bury All Her Toys!
“My cat likes to bury her toys in her mattress or below a pile of blankets after which dig them out prefer it’s a treasure hunt. Is that this regular?” – Deena (Mother of Sprinkles)
Hey Deena, it feels like Sprinkles is playing. No must be involved, simply benefit from the present!
This text is part of our weekly Ask Dr. Paola sequence