Educational Articles
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Chameleons are fascinating pets with bright colors and eyes that can rotate 360 degrees. Chameleons range in size from 0.9 inches to 27 inches long. They require special considerations in relation to their cage set-up and diet. Most chameleons do well on a cricket, mealworm, or waxworm-based diet. All chameleons require UVB lighting, a heated cage environment, and humidity of 60%-90%.
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Vaccines save lives and prevent disease but can have some mild common side effects. Other less common but more serious side effects can occur within minutes to hours after vaccination. These reactions are considered medical emergencies, and you should seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your pet is having a more serious reaction.
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Sometimes, the location of your cat's wound or the amount of skin lost can prevent surgical closure or bandaging. This handout describes general guidelines for proper care of your cat's open wound at home; your veterinarian can provide you with specific instructions.
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The average horse lives to be approximately 20 years of age, although many ponies and a few horses live for 30 years. Older horses and ponies need a little extra care to ensure that they remain healthy and happy.
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When your cat is being treated for an illness, it is important that you follow your veterinarian's advice and instructions precisely. Take your cat for re-examination requested. If your cat's condition worsens unexpectedly, contact your veterinarian for advice immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment provide the best outcome for your cat's recovery.
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Cats that are kept for companionship are typically neutered (castrated), unless they are intended to be used as breeding stock. Neutering prevents accidental or indiscriminate breeding and reduces the frequency of undesirable sexual behaviors, such as mounting and marking.
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Training your cat in advance for travel is ideal. Positive reinforcement training helps build good associations and makes travel safer and easier. Veterinary advice is sometimes needed for cats who become ill or are frightened during crate training or travel.
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Indoor cats can life long healthy lives, but many indoor cats are sedentary. Activity is important for a cat's mental and physical health. It is important to enrich the environment of indoor cats by providing outlets for interactive social play, exercise, and mental stimulation. Cats also need quiet places to sleep; placing a perch or cat tree in the main living area is recommended for most cats.
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Appropriate play and exercise are something every cat needs. Cats that have ample opportunities for exercise and play are amazing pets. Learning a cat’s preferences for play requires some observation and attention, but ultimately contributes immensely to the entire family’s quality of life.
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The leading causes of aggressive behavior among household cats are territorial aggression, fear-based aggression, and incompatible personalities. There may be more than one type of aggression occurring simultaneously. This explains the common forms of inter-cat aggression and how they may be prevented.
