Bone & Joint Medication for Your Pets from VetRxDirect

Have you noticed a decrease in your pets’ energy and activity level as they get older? Maybe they aren’t following you around the house as much, or not as playful as they used to be? These are all signs your pet might be suffering from joint or bone related issues.

No owner wants to watch their pets’ active life slowly come to a halt. We here at VetRxDirect understand staying on top of joint and bone health is critical in extending the length and quality of your pets’ life.

Giving your pet the right bone and joint supplement has the potential to greatly minimize inflammation and reduce the symptoms of arthritis.

The following are a couple of popular bone and joint supplements sold at VetRxDirect:

Cosequin Joint Health Supplement for Cats

Cosequin for Cats Available at VetRxDirect

For Cats consider Cosequin for Cats, an exclusive sprinkle capsule formula with tuna and chicken flavoring is a proven leader in healthy joint promotion in cats.

For Dogs consider Phycox Soft Chews, a popular joint supplement which comes in tasty natural liver flavored chews. VetRxDirect is currently having a special sale on Phycox. Buy a tub of Phycox 120 count soft chews and get TWO 10 count bottles of soft chews for free!!

We’ve priced both of these popular joint health supplements 10% OFF their already low prices during this special. HURRY! Sale prices and free goods offer ends next Friday.

Has your pet used Cosequin for Cats or Phycox Soft Chews? Feel free to give us all a quick review of the product in the comments section below.

Have a great evening,

Wes

Fear, Phobias, & Anxiety in Pets.

When Fido or Tiger is Fearful….Anxiety in Pets

When a thunderstorm rolls in, does your dog cower under the bed? Has your cat become aggressive since you brought your new baby home? Do Fourth of July fireworks send your cat and dog into a fearful frenzy?

Just as humans have a range of fears and anxieties – and coping mechanisms to handle them – so do our pets.  Common causes of fear and anxiety in pets include:

  • Loud noises from storms, fireworks and social gatherings
  • New family members
  • New pets
  • A change of residence
  • Changes in your household routine

When these things happen, pets tend to respond with aggressive or destructive behaviors that take their toll on your home, your family, your pet — and your patience.

Start by Learning

So what do you do if you have a pet that’s taking out its fears on your couch or urinating on the carpet? First, observe your pet’s behavior closely to confirm what triggers the fear and what the responses are. This information will be critical if you need to consult with your veterinarian. Ultimately, your veterinarian may suggest a prescription medication for your dog or cat.

But you can take steps right now to help calm your pet. Start by searching online to learn about training approaches that can curb your pet’s fear and anxiety and the resulting negative behaviors.

A Range of Remedies for Anxiety in Pets

Here at VetRxDirect we also stock a range of prescriptions and over-the-counter, natural remedies that can help.

Thundershirt for Anxiety in Dogs

Thundershirt Ships for FREE from VetRxDirect

One popular product for dogs is the Thundershirt. It’s a snug garment you put on your dog when he or she starts to exhibit fear or anxiety. Smart design makes it easy to slip the Thundershirt on your pet even when he or she is in “fear mode.” The Thundershirt applies constant, gentle pressure on the torso, which has an immediate calming effect on many dogs.

We have seen such great success with Thundershirts for dogs, we were happy to hear Thundershirts are now available for Cats!

We also stock a variety of all natural, over-the-counter medications that help calm and support dogs and cats without negative side effects including:

Have these products helped your best furry friend — and saved your couch? We’d like to know and always appreciate your feedback. Share your experience in the comments below.

Meanwhile, keep calm,

Wes

What Causes Nasal Discharge in Cats and what Treatments are Available?

Chronic Nasal Discharge in Cats

The average housecat is a fairly independent creature normally not needing much looking after. That may be why the average cat owner has more than two feline friends, while dog owners only have one. Of course, this does not mean they are worry-free pets. Just like their canine counterparts, cats can and do occasionally get sick. It is up to their owners to determine whether the problem requires professional attention.

Chronic nasal discharge in cats occurs when your pet’s nose runs for several hours without interruption. Because it is a common symptom of viral and bacterial infections, it should be taken seriously. More often than not, however, it is caused by seasonal allergies. Let us take a moment to discuss the three types of the discharges and their possible causes.

Allergic Rhinitis in Cats

When there is a clear, watery discharge accompanied by sneezing, it typically means your cat has inhaled an environmental allergen. Also known as atopy, the condition is most likely inherited and causes increased sensitivity to common allergens, such as certain grasses, trees, weeds, molds, insect bites, and dust mites.

Viral Respiratory Disease in Cats

When the discharge is thick and mucilaginous, it is often an early warning sign of a much more serious condition or complex. Your cat may be suffering from a respiratory disease and should receive professional treatment as soon as possible. For example, Feline Herpes Virus can cause recurrent and chronic nasal discharges in cats.

Bacterial Infection Causing Chronic Nasal Discharge in Cats

If the discharge is thick, yellow, and malodorous, it may mean your pet has a bacterial infection. Once again, these are serious issues to be addressed by professional veterinarians.

Progression of Chronic Nasal Discharge in Cats

Whether the infection is viral or bacterial, the discharge generally starts out as a watery fluid and then gets thicker and thicker as the infection spreads. The final stage produces a flavescent, purulent discharge, which means your pet is one sick kitty.

Causes and Secondary Symptoms of Chronic Nasal Discharge in Cats

The common housecat is the result of millions of years of evolution and adaptation. For most of their history, cats survived by catching and eating small prey. Eating these animals whole actually helped keep their teeth clean. But when the feline was domesticated, it had to adapt to a new diet. As nutritious as most of these foods may be, they can increase the risk of plaque and tartar buildup. And carious teeth can result in infections.  Dental problems are, in fact, a common cause of chronic nasal discharge in cats, which is why you should inspect your pet’s teeth on a regular basis. If there is any dental damage or a fetid smell, take your cat to see his or her doctor as soon as possible.

In extreme cases of this unpleasant ailment, your feline friend will experience a whole host of secondary symptoms. These include drooling, eye discharge, coughing, loss of appetite, fever, coughing, and mouth sores. If your pet exhibits one or more of these symptoms, it may mean your cat has feline viral respiratory disease.

Another surefire sign something is wrong is when a cat breathes noisily or through his or her mouth. Felines are simply not designed to be mouth breathers and they generally avoid it at all costs. If you cat is breathing orally, it may mean the nostrils are blocked by swollen membranes. Any cat having problems breathing should be examined immediately.

When a nasal infection occurs, your pet’s olfactory sense may also be affected, which can and often does result in a loss of appetite.  Whether viral or bacterial, these infections can cause sneezing, stertorous breathing, and nasal discharge. On occasion, the nasal infection may spread from the frontal sinus and may result in infected teeth. They may also become carries of herpesvirus, which is a chronic condition reactivated during periods of extreme stress.

Treatment of Chronic Nasal Discharge in Cats

Restoring breathing and preventing infection are always the main objectives when chronic nasal discharge is the issue.  The sick cat should be isolated from other animals, since the disease is contagious. If the discharge is watery, gently wipe the nostrils with a cotton ball to prevent irritation and blockage. Baby oil or pure moisturizing lotions can also guard against cracking and drying of the outside of the nose. If you have a humidifier or a vaporizer, the device can be used to help loosen up the discharge and help restore normal function to the mucus membranes.

If, however, your cat has a thick, yellowish discharge that also smells, your cat will require professional attention. Your veterinarian will almost certainly put your cat on a battery of antibiotics to fight the infection and restore balance to the system. These serious medical issues should never be handled at home with rumored remedies.

Long-term administration of a supplemental lysine may help reduce the symptoms of chronic nasal discharge when caused by Feline Herpes Virus. If your pet’s veterinarian has recommended a product containing L-lysine, please consider these products available at VetRxDirect:

Has your cat suffered from chronic nasal discharge? What was the cause? Let us know in the comments section below so we all know when it’s time to get our feline friend to the doctor.

Keep your nose clean,

Wes

 

 

 

Pet Probiotics On Sale Now!

Have you considered Probiotics for your cat or dog? Giving your pet a daily dose of Probiotic supplements provides gas and diarrhea relief, aids digestion, and promotes regularity in your pet’s bowel movements. Additionally, Probiotic supplements help ward off gastrointestinal and digestive diseases.

Equip your pet with the essential Probiotics he or she needs with these great products from VetRxDirect:

FortiFlora for Dogs

FortiFlora for Cats

Endurosyn Oral Gel

Proviable

VetRxDirect’s whole line of Probiotic Supplements

All Probiotic products are currently 10% OFF. For a limited time, receive an additional 5% OFF your entire order when you add a Probiotic supplement and enter the e-coupon code PROBIOTICS during checkout*

*Online use only. Must be signed into account. Cannot be combined with any other offer. One time use only. Expires at midnight CST on 9/21/12.

Has your pet used a Probiotic supplement? Which one and what type of success did you notice? Let us all know in the comments section below so we can learn from your experiences. Thank you.

Have a great weekend,

Wes

New Feline Greenies Sizes and Flavors at VetRxDirect!

Feline Greenies Dental Treats for Cats

Feline Greenies – New Sizes at VetRxDirect

Check out VetRxDirect’s new Feline Greenies product page. Today, we added new bag sizes and flavors of this popular feline dental treat.

Feline Greenies are the #1 veterinarian recommended feline dental treat for home oral care.

100% nutritionally complete and only 1.25 Calories per Treat, Feline Greenies clean teeth and freshens cat’s breath.

Now in Five Great Flavors:

  • Ocean Fish
  • Oven Rosted Chicken
  • Savory Salmon
  • Tempting Tuna
  • Succulent Beef

And in two bag sizes:

  • 2.5oz
  • 5.5oz (best price)

Has your feline friend tried Feline Greenies? What is his or her favor flavor? Let us know in the comments section below.

Have a great evening,

Wes

How to Fight Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Skin allergies are now the most common reason for veterinary visits. When allergies strike dogs, they almost always result in dermalogical problems. Your canine friend may chew on his feet, shake his head, rub his body on the carpet, scratch incessantly, or lick himself in a vain attempt to relieve the itching. This can and often does result in mutilated skin and hair loss.

What Causes Dog Allergies?

Veterinarians estimate that one in seven dogs is allergic to something. Unlike humans, however, dogs seldom manifest a multitude of symptoms. Even if they inhale environmental allergens, like pollen, their noses rarely run and their eyes usually don’t get red. Instead, they will have an itching sensation, skin rash, or possibly an ear infection.

The three most common culprits are food, environmental allergens, and flea bites. Scratching is the most common symptom and ear infections are possible, since the glands in your dog’s ears overproduce wax in response to allergic reactions. Owners must stay alert because the self-inflicted lesions caused by incessant scratching can lead to serious bacterial infections.

Just as with humans, when allergens are ingested, inhaled, or even touched, they cause the immune system to release irritating chemicals called histamines. Histamines are located in the skin and cause the itching. Because these allergens are produced in greater quantities in certain seasons, dogs tend to scratch a lot more in the spring, late summer, and fall.

Allergies typically develop in dogs between the ages of one and three. The symptoms to a known allergen rarely abate as the dog ages. In fact, they may get worse.

Flea Control is a Must

As noted above, fleas are a common cause of allergies in dogs. See our previous post for information on flea prevention medications available at VetRxDirect.

Allergy Testing in Dogs

Because they cannot tell you what symptoms they’re having or even how they feel, diagnosing allergies in dogs can be difficult. If your pouch experiences fairly consistent symptoms year round, he may be allergic to his food or to something in your home, typically dust mites. But if he only scratches himself for a few weeks in the spring, it means he almost certainly has seasonal allergies.

There are a few ways to determine what is causing your pet’s allergic reaction. The first and most definitive one is to take him to his veterinarian for an allergy test. Another is to eliminate things from your dog’s environment, one by one, until the allergen is determined. This method is generally used when food allergies are suspected.

Allergen Avoidance in Dogs

The simplest and most reliable way to assuage your pet’s allergies is to eliminate offending agents. If your dog is allergic to house dust, put him in another room while you vacuum the rugs and floors. If house dust mites are the culprit, wash his bedding in very hot water at least once a week. It may also be a good idea to use plastic covers on stuffed furniture. And make sure you keep rooms cool when the mercury rises, since pests thrive in warm environments.

The two other common environmental allergens are molds and pollens. To shield your dog from mold, keep him out of the basement and indoors when the grass is being cut. Because they are magnets for molds, humidifiers should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Using a dehumidifier may also help prevent the spread of these offending agents. Pollen is a bit easier to protect against since we know when pollen counts generally rise, i.e., during the spring. If your dog has a problem with pollen, keep him indoors and in the air conditioning during these periods, or at least wipe his feet before he comes inside.

Topical Solutions for Dog’s Skin Health

Shampoos and anti-itch medications provide immediate, albeit short-term relief. As a result, they are extremely popular with owners whose pets suffer from seasonal allergies. Most can be used once, even twice a week without issue. Solutions that contain hydrocortisone offer increased relief for most dogs. Salves and lotions may also be applied to sooth red, irritated skin.

VetRxDirect has a full line of dog shampoos and sprays for healthy skin:

Ask your veterinarian which one is right for your pet.

Immunotherapy for Dogs

Intensive, expensive, but extremely effective, immunotherapy is only recommended when allergy symptoms are persistant and severe. The treatment involves a series of weekly or monthly shots administered during periods of intense suffering. Before these injections can be applied, your dog must undergo blood and/or intradermal testing to identify the offending allergens. New oral immunotherapy is now available- see Medications below.

Medication for Allergic Dogs

In more typical cases, when the allergies are seasonal and of shorter duration, your veterinarian may decide to prescribe medications to suppress the symptoms until the allergen dissipates in the environment, usually after a killing frost or significant snowfall.

Prescription medications to treat common pet allergies are available at deeply-discounted prices at VetRxDirect:

Your veterinarian will prescribe the best allergy medication for your dog.

Nutritional Supplements for Allergic Dogs

Essential fatty acids can help with allergy symptoms and potentiate other medications such as corticosteroids, antihistamines, and immune suppressants like cyclosporine.

VetRxDirect has many products containing fatty acids for dogs to choose from.

Topical Solutions and Medications for Allergic Dog’s Ears

If your dog’s ears are litchy, waxy, or sore, topical ear cleaners and medications may be needed to clean the ears, treat infections, and relieve symptoms. A veterinarian can look deep in your dog’s ear and check the debris under the microscope to determine the best treatment. Talk to your veterinarian about these possible ear cleaners and medications for dogs from VetRxDirect:

Ear Cleaners for Dogs:

Ear Medications for Dogs:

How do you fight seasonal allergies in your dog? Please post any suggestions or tips you have to help the rest of us who have scratchy, licking dogs.

Have a great day,

Wes

Prevent the Flea Life Cycle on Your Pet

Fleas are the most common external parasite on dogs and cats. They tend to build up during the summer months and early fall, but can be a year round problem indoors.  Fleas cause itching and irritation which leads to dermatitis that can become severe if your pet becomes allergic to the flea bites.

Fleas prefer dogs and cats, but when they are in sufficient numbers they will start to bite you. Control of fleas has always been a challenge because only adult fleas live on the pet. The majority of the flea population (eggs, larvae, and pupa) live off the pet, in and around the house. The adult fleas cause all of the symptoms, but represent less than 10% of the total flea life cycle population.

The Flea Life Cycle

Eggs are laid in the hair coat of pets and fall off in and around the house. Eggs are resistant to many insecticides. Eggs hatch and develop into larvae which feed on digested blood excreted by the adult flea. Larvae then develop into pupae (cocoons) and can remain dormant or develop rapidly into adults. Pupae are also resistant to insecticides. The life cycle of the flea is about 21 days in the right conditions but can be as short as 16 days. Adult females live 4-6 weeks and can lay up to 40 eggs per day. Once adult fleas emerge they are very hungry and will immediately seek a blood meal from your pet. Yuck!

Flea Control

Physical cleaning and vacuuming your environment is very helpful in reducing the amount of eggs and immature fleas. But eggs and immature fleas are very small and can hide in the smallest places and some stages can lay dormant until the right conditions exist. Total flea control requires cleaning and treatment of the environment as well as treatment of the pet. It is much easier to prevent fleas than treat them once they have infested the house and pets.

Common Flea Control Products:

Lufeneron

Lufeneron is available in a once per month tablet or oral solution branded Program and in the prescription heartworm medicine branded Sentinel. Lufeneron keeps flea eggs from hatching, helping to break the flea life cycle. It is also available from your veterinarian as a six month injection for cats.

Pyriproxifen (Nylar)

Pyriproxifen (Nylar) is an insect growth regulator found in many household sprays and foggers. Brands include Mycodex and Virbac Knockout. One treatment can last up to 150 days, but always follow the instructions found on the product’s label.

Imidacloprid

Imidacloprid is a topical adult pesticide for pets applied monthly. Advantage II for Cats and Advantage II for Dogs contain imidacloprid. It is combined with permethrin for tick control in dogs in the branded product Advantix II. Advantix should not be applied to cats. Imidacloprid is combined with moxidectin in the prescription topical medications for heartworm prevention, the branded products Advantage Multi for Cats and Advantage Multi for Dogs.

Fipronil

Fipronil is a topical adult insecticide found in Frontline, Certifect, Effipro for Cats, Effitix for Dogs, and many other products. These products are applied topically once a month. Fipronil controls both fleas and ticks. In Frontline Plus and Certifect, it is combined with S-Methoprene, an insect growth regulator, to control adult and immature fleas. Certifect and Effitix should not be used on cats.

Selamectin

Selamectin is a prescription medicine for dogs and cats that controls fleas and heartworms as well as other listed parasites. Selamectin is available as a product branded Revolution for Cats and Revolution for Dogs and is applied topically to the pet once per month

Nitenpyram

Nitenpyram is the flea medicine contained in Capstar Tablets. It kills fleas rapidly as soon as it is ingested by the dog or cat. It only lasts a short time but can be repeated daily as needed.

Secondary Problems Caused by Fleas

Fleas are not only a nuisance, they can also cause severe diseases in pets. Fleas carry tapeworm larvae which can lead to tapeworm infections in dogs and cats. All pets infested with fleas should be wormed for tapeworms after the fleas are under control. Virbantel is an excellent tapeworm treatment.

Even a few fleas can cause skin problems in dogs and cats and may not even be readily observable. This may cause skin problems which are hard to discern from seasonal allergies since both are common in the spring, summer, and fall.

It is easier and less expensive to prevent fleas than treat them once they have infested your house and pets. So, start your pet on a flea preventative today.

Which flea preventatives have you used on your pet? How did the flea medicine work? Do you have suggestion on controlling fleas in the home? Please leave your comments below.

VetRxDirect is here to help keep your pet flea free,

Wes