Pets Best Newsroom

Blog posts Categorized under ‘Cat Health News’

Pet health tips for first time owners

Posted on: February 15th, 2011 by

A puppy gets pet health insurance from his owner.
Now that you have decided to add a new pet to your family, there are a few things you will need to do. You’ll want to be sure that you have covered all the bases when it comes to the health and well being of your new pet.

One of the first things you want to do after you research pet health insurance, is find a veterinarian. Ask friends, neighbors and family with pets which veterinarians they use—always choose one with a good reputation. Since healthcare for your pet can be expensive, pet insurance can help you save on the costs of pet health care.

If you are buying a pet from a breeder, you should also make sure that the pet is checked out within the guidelines of your breeder contract.

When you pick up your new pet, obtain copies of their pet health record from the previous owners. This information will include any vaccines that your pet has received and help the veterinarian know which vaccines your pet will need. Now is also a good time to get your pet started on heartworm and flea preventatives. Also, spay or neuter your pet if they are not already altered.

Feb. 14th is Pet Theft Awareness Day

Posted on: February 14th, 2011 by

A dog with pet insurance is safe from pet theft.

Since 1988, Pet Awareness Day is celebrated on February 14th. Last Chance for Animals began this campaign to educate the public on the issue of pet theft.

Their mission is to educate the public on how to protect their pets and prevent them from becoming one of the approximate 2 million animals stolen each year.

There are several methods to help keep your pets safe. You should keep your animals indoors, especially if you are not home. Also, avoid leaving your pets unattended in the yard, as this gives thieves an open opportunity to steal your pet. If your pet must stay outdoors unattended, ensure that you have a lock on your gate.

Spaying and neutering your pet can also make them less likely to roam. Altered pets are less desirable to thieves that want your pet for breeding purposes. Don’t let your pet roam the neighborhood, not only can they be stolen, pet injuries can occur. Make sure that your pet has an up-to-date tag and collar. Having your pet microchipped is useful if their collar is missing.

Keep pet insurance information and recent photos handy. If your pet is groomed in the summer, be sure to have photos of your pet when they are groomed. This will help to make accurate fliers if your pet is lost or stolen.

The best way to prevent pet theft is to not let them out of your sight. While this is not practical for most people, taking simple precautions can help lessen the risk.

Pet supplies for your new pet

Posted on: February 11th, 2011 by

A seven-week-old kitten with pet health insurance drinks from a bottle.
Being a first time pet owner can be overwhelming. If you do your research before getting your new pet you will be prepared and better equipped to start on the right foot. Once you have done your research on which veterinarian and pet health insurance you are going to use, it is time to get the pet supplies that your pet will need.

The most important pet supply that you will need is food. If possible, find out which brand of food your new pet has been eating and buy the same. If you are unable to find out what food your pet has been eating, you will want to buy a quality food that fits your pet’s life stage. For example, if you are getting a new born puppy or kitten you will want to get puppy or kitten food.

If you are getting a puppy or dog you will need a few basic supplies. Purchase the appropriate sized collar and leash for your new dog. In addition to a collar, get an identification tag with your contact information. It is recommended that you get an appropriate sized crate for your new dog as well. You will also need food and water bowls. You may want to pick up a few toys, as well.

For your new cat you will need a litter box and litter, food and water bowls, and a few toys. Being prepared with pet health insurance and all the right supplies will help you be the best pet owner you can be.

February is pet dental health month

Posted on: February 7th, 2011 by

A dog with pet insurance prepares to have his teeth brushed.

Pet owners understand the benefits of giving their pets quality food, annual checkups, and the best pet insurance coverage. But if their pet’s dental care is neglected, optimum pet health may be compromised.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reports that most pets show signs of oral disease by age two: 80% of dogs and 70% of cats.

These statistics are alarming, because poor cat and dog dental care can cause periodontal disease, which leads to tooth loss and unhealthy bacteria entering the bloodstream. This can cause infection in vital organs like the heart and kidneys.

February is Pet Dental Health Month, the perfect time for pet owners to look into dog and cat dental insurance. The best pet insurance companies often include dental coverage for pets, or offer it as an additional option.

Pets Best Insurance covers routine dental cleanings as part of the BestWellness routine care coverage. Professional cleanings, performed annually by a veterinarian, will not only help prevent tooth loss, but will also prevent other pet health issues that can occur when plaque and tartar ravage a pet’s gums.

In between professional cleanings, pet owners can brush their pet’s teeth with specially formulated pet toothpaste. Pets love the taste, and it is free of fluoride and other ingredients that can be harmful.

Other tools are also available to keep pet mouths healthy, including tartar control treats, water additives, and gels. These products are available from pet stores and veterinary clinics. When treated with professional pet dental care and pet insurance, periodontal disease is preventable. No pet should have to suffer from painful, bleeding gums, tooth loss, or other potential diseases.

Pet health: Outdoor cats

Posted on: February 3rd, 2011 by

A cat with pet insurance keeps warm outside.
Cat pet care should be at the top of your priority list, along with pet insurance and your cat’s overall health. If your cat must stay outdoors, make sure to take the proper precautions to ensure he stays safe.

Cats that live outside are at risk for a number of potentially dangerous conditions, which is another reason cat insurance should be a consideration.

It is important to make sure that your cat has a safe shelter from all of the elements. Cats should have a place where they can go to escape the cold and wind. The shelter also serves as a place to keep your cat warm and dry. The shelter should just be large enough for the cat to turn around and stand in. The cat’s body heat will help to keep the shelter warm.

Cats should have access to plenty of fresh food and water. Cats will tend to eat more during the winter due to burning more calories in order to keep themselves warm. Place food and water in plastic bowls to prevent tongue injuries. Metal bowls can cause their tongue to stick to them which may lead to injuries. Check water bowls daily to make sure the water hasn’t frozen. If you suspect there has been an incident that may have hurt your pet, take him to the veterinarian. Pet insurance can help keep veterinary costs, like these, down.

Cat health insurance will allow you to take your cat in for a check-ups whenever you need to, to ensure your cat is healthy. Cats that are sick can have a more difficult time dealing with the elements than a healthy cat.