VCA Canada | Cat Health
You may not be able to ask your #cat questions to find out what they're thinking, but there are some basic things you can do to ensure they are happy and healthy.
Start with a well-rounded diet and plenty of playtime to prevent any weight-gain or issues with obesity. A healthy weight helps avoid issues like diabetes and joint problems down the line.
🦷 Don't forget about their teeth—regular brushing and #dentaltreats can make a big difference in preventing gum disease and tooth loss.
💧 #Hydration is super important so make sure your cat is drinking enough water daily, or try some #wetfood to help them out. Urinary tract problems can be a concern, especially in male cats, so keeping them hydrated and making sure the litter box stays clean is key.
🐈 Cats naturally need to shed the outer layer of their claws, and scratching helps them do that. By using a #scratchingpost, they can safely shed old claw sheaths and keep their claws sharp and healthy. Without a proper outlet, cats may scratch furniture, carpets, or even themselves, potentially causing injury or damage.
As your cat ages, kidney health becomes more important, so regular #veterinary visits will help catch any issues early. Watch for signs of diabetes, like excessive thirst or weight loss, and keep an eye on their food intake.
💡 Pro Tip: Make sure your cat gets their regular #vaccinations to stay protected.
#VCACanada #NationalCatHealthMonth #PetParentTips
🐶🩺 First Time Wellness Exam for Your Pup? Here’s What to Expect!🩺🐶
Is your dog about to have their first wellness exam? Whether it's your pup's first check-up or just an important milestone, a thorough exam is a great way to make sure they’re feeling paw-some and healthy! 💪
What’s involved in a first veterinary check-up? 🤔
Your Veterinarian will give your dog a full body check, from head to tail! They'll listen to the heart ❤️, check the skin, feel the tummy, and look at the teeth🦷 and eyes 👀. It's all about catching any health issues early—before they become a bigger problem!
Plus, after the physical exam, your Veterinarian might suggest some wellness screening tests to get a deeper look at your dog’s health. Here’s what you might hear about:
🔬 1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
🧪 2. Biochemistry Profile
💧 3. Urinalysis
🧬 4. Thyroid Hormone Testing
For young dogs, simple tests usually do the trick. But for middle-aged, senior, or geriatric dogs, more detailed testing is often recommended to stay ahead of any health issues.
For older pups, that might even mean X-rays (chest, abdomen, or joints) to keep an eye on internal organs, bones, and joints!
Your Veterinarian will walk you through everything and answer any questions you have at this appointment. It's a super important step to keep your furry friend in tip-top shape for years to come!
VCA Canada | AMR Awareness
💊🐾#AMRweek is here! Time to Educate. Advocate. Act Now. 🐾💊
#Antimicrobialresistance (AMR) is a growing threat that impacts the health of humans, animals, and the environment. AMR happens when harmful microorganisms (like bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites) evolve to resist the medications designed to treat them—like antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals.
Why should you care?🤔
As AMR spreads, these essential medicines become less effective, which means infections can persist and become harder to treat. This increases the risk of infections spreading and can make previously manageable diseases much more serious.
The effects aren’t just limited to humans—AMR also affects #veterinarycare, livestock health, and even our food systems. It's a global issue that requires global action.
✅ What can we do about it?
We all have a role to play in tackling AMR! Here's how you can help:
Use antibiotics responsibly—whether for yourself, your pets, or animals in your care.
Follow your veterinarian's advice when it comes to treating infections.
Educate yourself and others about AMR and its growing impact.
Advocate for sustainable practices in both human and animal healthcare.
Together, we can protect the future of our communities and ensure that antimicrobials remain effective. 🌱💚
#RVTs are the heart and soul of any vet clinic🫶 Their tireless contributions are felt and seen on a daily basis, 365 days a year. Happy #rvtmonth! #VCACanada is forever grateful for every single one of you ❤️💐