| You are receiving this message because you have visited our site and requested to be contacted. If you no longer wish to be contacted, please use the removal link:Â REMOVE. | | | | Maximize Your Reach With Targeted Newsletter Ads | | | | Welcome to Paws & Tails â the ultimate newsletter for pet lovers who see their furry friends as family. Dive into heartwarming stories, expert pet care tips, and the latest in pet lifestyle trends, all designed to celebrate the joy cats and dogs bring to our lives. With every edition, Paws & Tails delivers engaging content that keeps readers coming back for more, while giving advertisers the perfect platform to connect with a passionate, pet-focused audience.
Our readership is 75% female and 25% male, featuring dedicated pet owners, animal enthusiasts, and pet care professionals who live and breathe all things paws and tails. Spanning ages 25 to 54, these readers earn $50,000 to $100,000 annually and are eager for insights on pet health, training, nutrition, and the newest pet-friendly products. Rooted in suburban and urban communities across the U.S., especially pet-friendly hotspots, this audience prioritizes the well-being of their four-legged companions.
Advertise with Paws & Tails to connect with an engaged community thatâs as loyal as the pets they love! | | | | | | Protect Your Cat's Sight: What Every Pet Owner Should Know | | | | Understanding Cataracts in Cats Cataracts are a common yet often overlooked issue that can affect a catâs vision, especially as they age. Typically, the condition manifests as cloudiness or haziness in the eyes, which can impair their ability to see clearly. While cataracts donât usually lead to total blindness, they can significantly affect how a cat experiences the world.
The Formation of Cataracts A cataract forms when the lens in a cat's eye becomes cloudy, preventing light from reaching the retina. Initially, cataracts are small and may not noticeably affect vision, but as they develop, they can become denser and more obstructive. Some cataracts remain static, causing minimal disruption to the cat's sight.
Nuclear sclerosis, another age-related change, often resembles cataracts in appearance. While it can lead to mild haziness in the eyes, it generally doesnât impede vision significantly.
Causes and Risk Factors While some breeds are genetically predisposed to cataracts, the condition usually appears in cats over the age of 10. Breeds such as Himalayan, Persian, and Bengal are more likely to develop cataracts earlier than others. Trauma, inflammation, or infections, including feline herpesvirus, are common causes of cataracts, though diabetes is a rare trigger in cats compared to other species.
Signs of Cataracts in Cats If a cat exhibits cautious behavior, such as hesitating to jump or navigate unfamiliar spaces, cataracts could be a contributing factor. Cloudy eyes are also a visible symptom. Since cataracts typically affect one eye at a time, it may not be immediately obvious that vision has been compromised.
Diagnosis and Treatment A veterinarian can diagnose cataracts through a detailed eye exam, often followed by a referral to a specialist for further testing. If cataracts are confirmed, the primary treatment option is surgery to remove the affected lens and replace it with an artificial one. Post-surgical care is intensive, requiring frequent eye drops and the use of a protective collar to prevent the cat from disturbing the healing eye.
However, if the cataract affects only one eye and does not cause significant problems, many owners opt to forgo surgery. The condition is not painful, and most cats can adjust with one functional eye.
Preventing Cataracts in Cats While there are no proven natural remedies for cataracts, certain preventative measures can help minimize the risk. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, limiting outdoor exposure to reduce trauma, and safeguarding against infectious diseases can all contribute to better eye health and potentially prevent cataracts from forming. | | | | | | | | The Mighty Tosa: A Canine Giant with a Gentle Soul | | | | Tosa Overview The Tosa, often referred to as the sumo wrestler of the dog world, is a breed defined by its imposing size, intelligence, and gentle nature. Initially bred for combat in Japanâs dogfighting rings, the Tosa is now more commonly found as a loyal family companion. With its calm demeanor and formidable stature, this breed requires an experienced owner capable of managing its strength and devotion.
Impressive Size and Build The Tosaâs physical presence is undeniable. Typically standing between 21 and 23 inches tall and weighing between 100 and 200 pounds, these dogs boast powerful, athletic builds. Their broad heads, muscular necks, and sturdy frames are complemented by a short, smooth coat in colors like black, brindle, fawn, and red. Despite their large size, Tosas are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming, requiring only occasional brushing.
Temperament and Personality Tosas are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and patience. Although their initial reaction to strangers may be reserved, they are affectionate and playful with family members. Their gentle nature makes them excellent companions, but their aloofness with unfamiliar faces underscores the importance of proper socialization. With the right training, Tosas are eager to please and excel at learning new commands.
Living Needs and Exercise Tosas thrive in spacious environments, such as large fenced yards, where they can enjoy daily exercise. They require around 45 minutes to an hour of activity each day, but long, intense sessions are not ideal. Apartments are not recommended for this breed, as they require room to move and can be unsettled by the presence of strangers and other pets. A Tosaâs prey drive and protective instincts make them better suited for households where they can be the only pet.
Training and Socialization As a breed that requires both physical and mental stimulation, the Tosa responds well to positive reinforcement training. Socialization from an early age is essential to ensure that their natural aloofness doesnât develop into suspicion. Due to their intelligence and desire to please, training a Tosa is a rewarding experience, but it requires consistency and patience.
Health Considerations While the Tosa is generally a healthy breed, they are prone to certain conditions. Hip and elbow dysplasia, which can lead to mobility issues, and gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), or bloat, are among the more common concerns. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care are essential to maintain their well-being.
History and Origins Originating from the Shikoku region of Japan, the Tosa was bred from a mix of native Japanese dogs and Western breeds brought in by traders during the 19th century. The Tosaâs history as a fighting dog is well-known, but today, they are prized for their loyal, calm temperament, making them a popular choice among experienced dog owners. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Raw Chicken and Cats: What You Need to Know | | | | Can Cats Eat Raw Chicken? Cats are obligate carnivores, thriving on diets rich in animal products. While wild cats regularly consume raw meat, it's important to approach the idea of feeding raw chicken to a domesticated cat with caution. Despite their natural inclination for meat, raw chicken carries certain risks that need careful consideration.
Risks of Feeding Raw Chicken to Cats While cats have digestive systems adapted to raw meat, there are significant dangers involved. Raw chicken can harbor harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which may lead to gastrointestinal issues or more severe illnesses. Parasites are another concern, as raw meat can contain organisms that cause infections.
Bones: A Serious Danger Raw chicken bones pose a choking hazard to cats and can also cause serious internal injuries. Sharp bone fragments can pierce the gastrointestinal tract, leading to life-threatening conditions like sepsis. Itâs critical to ensure that any raw meat served to a cat is free of bones.
Nutritional Deficiencies from Raw Chicken Raw chicken lacks the comprehensive nutritional profile that cats require for optimal health. While it may be a tasty snack, it does not provide the essential nutrients, such as taurine, needed for heart and overall health. Commercial cat food is the most reliable source of these nutrients.
What to Do if Your Cat Eats Raw Chicken If a cat consumes raw chicken, keep a close watch for signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, or lethargy. In such cases, it is essential to contact a veterinarian immediately for guidance.
Safely Preparing Raw Chicken for Cats If you choose to feed raw chicken to your cat, consult your veterinarian beforehand to ensure it's safe. Should your vet approve, there are specific steps to take to minimize risks: Purchase Fresh Chicken Always buy fresh, high-quality raw chicken from reputable sources. Bacteria grow rapidly in older meat, increasing the risk of contamination. Properly Prepare the Chicken Before serving, thoroughly clean all surfaces and utensils used for preparation. Remove any bones and serve only the amount your cat can consume in one sitting. Discard any leftovers promptly to avoid bacterial growth. Clean Surfaces After Handling To prevent contamination, clean all surfaces and utensils thoroughly after preparing raw chicken. An alternative to raw meat is cooking the chickenâboiling or grilling without seasoning is the safest method.
| | | | Master the 'Drop It' Command with Ease | | | | The Power of the 'Drop It' Cue Teaching a dog to "drop it" is an essential skill for every pet owner, especially when it comes to keeping them safe and teaching them to share. This command allows dogs to release objects theyâve picked up, whether itâs a toy, a sock, or even something potentially harmful. By offering a trade, this cue promotes positive reinforcement and helps avoid confrontational moments over objects. Itâs important to distinguish between the "drop it" cue and a "leave it" cue, the latter being used to stop a dog from engaging with an object from the start.
Starting with Simpler Objects To make the process smoother, begin with objects that your dog is willing to give up easily, such as old toys. Over time, they can progress to dropping items of greater value, like food or a forbidden object theyâve found. Patience and consistency are keyâexpect the process to take time as dogs often struggle to let go of particularly exciting finds.
Essential Tools for Training Before teaching the "drop it" command, ensure that the right tools are available. High-value treats are essential, as dogs need motivation to release items they find interesting. A marker, such as a clicker or a verbal cue like âyesâ or âgood,â will help signal when your dog has successfully followed the cue.
Three-Step Method to Teach 'Drop It' Initiate Play Begin by engaging your dog in a tug-of-war game with a toy they enjoy but arenât overly attached to. Wait for them to drop the toy and immediately mark the behavior with your marker. Reward with a treat and repeat the game. This helps the dog associate dropping the item with a positive experience. Introduce the Verbal Cue As your dog begins to drop the toy on their own, introduce the verbal cue âdrop it.â Say the cue just before the dog releases the object and reward them once they do. Practicing this in various environments helps reinforce the behavior. Use Other Toys for Reinforcement To further reinforce the behavior, swap out the object your dog drops with another toy or a game of fetch. This keeps the dog engaged and reinforces the idea that releasing one item leads to something else fun.
Avoid Common Mistakes When teaching the "drop it" cue, avoid raising your voice or scolding your dog. This can create negative associations with the command. Never chase your dog if they have something you want; this will only encourage them to run away with it. Keep training sessions brief, engaging, and full of praise to ensure the best results. | | | | Is Cinnamon Safe for Cats? What Every Pet Owner Should Know | | | | Can Cats Eat Cinnamon? Cinnamon is a popular spice that adds warmth and flavor to many dishes, but when it comes to cats, caution is necessary. While not immediately toxic, cinnamon can cause health issues for cats, particularly in certain forms and quantities.
The Risks of Cinnamon for Cats Although cinnamon isnât classified as toxic for cats, it can lead to digestive problems and other health concerns. Cats lack the enzyme required to process cinnamon properly, which could result in indigestion if they consume too much. Additionally, cinnamon contains coumarin, a compound that can act as a blood thinner, potentially leading to clotting issues with high doses.
Cinnamon Forms and Their Dangers Cinnamon can be found in various forms, some of which pose greater risks to cats than others. Ground cinnamon, for instance, is not likely to cause toxicity unless consumed in large quantities. However, essential oils made from cinnamon can be extremely harmful, even in small amounts. Exposure to cinnamon oils may result in symptoms like weakness, lethargy, and behavior changes.
Cinnamon Products to Watch Out For Cinnamon brooms and candles, though fragrant and appealing during the holiday season, can also pose risks. The strong scent from cinnamon brooms can irritate a catâs sensitive nose, and chewing on the broom could lead to mouth irritation. Cinnamon candles may attract a catâs curiosity, but their low cinnamon content usually poses minimal harm, provided the candle is kept out of reach.
Signs of Cinnamon Toxicity or Allergies Cinnamon exposure can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and changes in heart rate. If ingested in large amounts, cinnamon may also cause liver damage and low blood sugar. Allergic reactions can include skin rashes, hives, and excessive itching. If a cat is exposed to cinnamon, itâs important to monitor for these symptoms and contact a veterinarian immediately.
What to Do If Your Cat Eats Cinnamon If a cat consumes cinnamon, the first step is to consult with a veterinarian. In some cases, a bath may be required to remove cinnamon residue from the catâs skin or fur, and blood work may be necessary to monitor liver and clotting functions. Fluids may also be administered to help dilute the cinnamon in the catâs system. |
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