Medically and Financially it makes sense to Spay or Neuter Kitty

​Medically and Financially it makes sense to Spay or Neuter Kitty

In the last few months, I have visited multiple homes with kittens they found approaching 6 to 8 months.  Now these families are struggling with “fixing” Kitty.  Recently I spoke to several breeders and obtained interesting information that I would like to share with you.

​
Spaying Female Cats:

​Something important to know, a cat will come into heat over and over during the breeding season. The behavior during the breeding season can be very difficult to live with, especially if you have an inside only Kitty.  If your Kitty goes outside, chances are high she will come home pregnant.

​The scariest danger of not spaying a female cat is Pyometra.  Breeders are very worried about their females getting this infection.  Pyometra is when bacteria migrates from Kitty licking their bottoms into the uterus.  There are periods of time the cervix is open and the bacteria can enter the uterus. Remember, cats go into heat repeatedly during the breeding season, making it difficult to know when the dangerous period may be.  Pyometra comes in several forms, and breeders who know what to look for, sometimes miss it.  If your Kitty gets Pyometra and it is caught in time, you will be looking at vet bills for an emergency and dangerous spay.  One of the biggest and real concerns is secondary infection following the emergency spay.  Keep in mind, if Kitty gets pyometra, and you miss the infection, it will result in the death of your kitty.

​Spaying also reduces or eliminates the risk of mammary gland tumors, ovarian and/or uterine cancers.  Females who are not spayed run an approximate 14% rate of developing one of these cancers over those who were spayed.

​
Neutering Male Cats:

​The biggest plus for a male house cat is that neutering reduces or eliminates spraying and marking, in addition to aggressive behavior and howling!  Males that are not neutered end up with injuries from catfights.  These injures often end up infected and abscessed.  Treatment usually results in large veterinarian bills.  Neutering also takes away the desire to roam, which in turn reduces the likelihood of Kitty being injured in a fight or hurt from cars or predators.  Testicular cancer will be eliminated and prostate disease is greatly decreased after a male cat is neutered.  Unfortunately, an outside male cat tends to have a life expectancy of two years.

​
Did you know…

​Responsible breeders will not give you the CFA papers for your kitten before you provide proof of spay/neuter.  Most purebred cat contracts state the ownership of their cats will remain in the breeder’s name until the spay/neuter takes place.  Bottom line, if you did not buy a cat from a reputable breeder to specifically breed, you do not have permission to breed your cat.  If you do try to breed your cat, you will not have the CFA paper work to be able to prove your cat’s ownership or bloodlines.  Hence, not “fixing” your purebred cat potentially could result legal matters with your breeder.


Benefits to both Males and Females:

​Cats tend to live at least three to five years longer when altered.  It also will reduce the urge to roam, which decreases the risk of contracting diseases or getting hurt outside.  Feline Immunodeficiency Syndrome is spread by bites and catfights that occur more often in cats that are not spayed or neutered.


In Conclusion:

Medically it makes sense to spay/neuter your Kitty.  However, it also makes sense financially.  All the “problems” that occur if Kitty is not altered result in high veterinarian bills.  Another consideration is the comfort and quality of life for Kitty.  Of course, we all know overpopulation, poor breeding and abandoned cats are societal concerns of those cats who are not spayed or neutered.

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​
http://www.cat-health-guide.org/spaying-cats.html

http://www.eastpaddenanimalhospital.com/cat_feline_pet_care/pyometra_in_cats.shtml

http://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/pyometra-in-cats/330

http://www.pet-informed-veterinary-advice-online.com/cat-in-heat.html

http://www.vawokc.org/main_sublinks.asp?id=19&sid=68

​http://www.spayusa.org/benefits.php

Published September 2014 Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter

The Healing Power of the Purr

As cat lovers, we know nothing can replace our furry family members.  We have many special moments with them throughout the day, when they wake us in the morning with head butts, meow for food, rub against us when we come home, lay in our laps as we watch television.  When they find a new napping place we panic, when they are sick we cry and when kitty chooses us over others we rejoice.  Our love and devotion to our cats surpass explanation.

The human feline bond is unique in itself.  Over the last few months, older research has been brought back into the spotlight regarding how the cat’s purr can actually heal humans!  The purr not only is thought to heal the cat, but also the humans in the cat’s life.  Many report that cats will lay on or near injured human body parts.  When we don’t feel well, we are often irritated by this act.  However, they could be actively trying to heal us.

Let’s start with the basics… Why do Cats Purr?

We really are not sure, however, many Veterinarians and Scientists believe purring is linked to the emotions of the feline.  It is still unknown if purring is a voluntary or involuntary response. That being said, I have personally owned cats that never stopped purring and cats that hardly ever purred.

Interesting enough, purring begins the second day of life in house cats.  The purr is used when cats are content, comfortable, feel safe, play, approach other cats, distressed, afraid, sick, injured, and in medical distress.  Many believe the purr is the cat’s way to reassure and calm themselves and their special humans.

How do they make that sound?

The purr comes from the cat’s voice box.  The laryngeal muscles tighten and vibrate when the cat breathes in and out.  The range in Hertz when a cat purrs is due to the fact that the cat’s laryngeal muscles vibrate on both the inhale and exhale, resulting in a large range in frequency. Some believe the diaphragm is also involved in the purring process, making the act of purring a high energy producing activity.

Purring can Heal???

We all know a good cuddle reduces our stress, but it has been scientifically proved to reduce our blood pressure at the same time!

When cats purr, the vibration is in a range of 20-140 Hz.  To me that means nothing, however scientist tell us that this range is medically therapeutic for many illnesses.  This frequency range of 25 – 50 Hz actually heals bones!  100 – 200 Hz is the second best range to strengthen bones!  These vibrations also help heal infection, swelling, muscle, tendon and ligament injuries.

When I had surgery a few years back, my two girl cats would lay on each side of my surgery site and purr.  I thought nothing of it at the time.  Recently, my doctor stated that my wounds heal quickly.  When these studies were revisited in groups I belong to, I found it interesting that my girls will still lay on or next to my injuries.  Our cats obviously take care of us in ways we are never aware of!

Some studies have determined, just owning a cat will reduce your rate of heart attack by 40%!

Yes, I believe the purr contains healing properties.  Below I have included additional sources for you to explore.

http://www.the-wayfarer.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=223%3Athe-science-of-healing-from-cats-part-2&catid=8%3Aarticles&Itemid=8

http://www.leaflady.org/purr.htmhttp://paulapeterson.com/CatsPurr.html (half way down the article is the section on cats)
http://consciouscat.net/2009/09/14/the-cats-purr-a-biomechanical-healing-mechanism/

http://www.collective-evolution.com/2013/10/21/domestication-may-date-back-to-9000-bca-history-of-cats-how-they-can-assist-us-on-our-journey/

http://purring.org/

http://pets.webmd.com/cats/features/why-cats-purr

http://mentalfloss.com/article/12312/how-do-cats-purr




Updates!!!

Below are the stories of how our clients have been healed by Purrs!


Kitty R’s Dad had open heart surgery.  When he returned home from the hospital, his special furry friend very gently laid on his chest for hours purring while he was recovering.  Now this Kitty, had never laid on Dad’s chest before, and did it in a very gentle and loving manner.  Of course, Mom was worried!  However, Dad assured her, that the soft sounds of the purrs made him feel better! This was before Kitty R, but Kitty R wants you to know, she would do the same for her beloved Daddy!

I just read your newsletter and it's funny because a couple nights ago my left hand was completely unusable... Had it on ice and everything and little Miss PittyPat insisted on laying right on my hand all night long :)  -Angela

I am sharing the stories clients have shared with me of how their Kitty healed them with Purrs!  To submit your story, please email your story to meow@kittyspurrfectspa.com, or paste it into the contact form!  Thank you!

Published July 2014, Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter

Feline Toxins and Poisons

Felines have very delicate skin and can be very curious.  As cat owners, we also need to remember that cats lick their fur and skin for hours a day. This results in substances in the environment being easily digested or absorbed through the skin.  Additionally, the pet industry is not regulated.  Just because a product is marked “safe for kittens and cats” does not make it true.  Cat owners need to be up to date on what substances are toxic for cats.  Some are obvious, and some will surprise you!  Like with anything in life, people differ in their beliefs.  Some believe a little won’t hurt, while others will not knowingly take a small chance at inducing problems in their furry family member.  Below is an incomplete list of many household toxins and hazards.  Please use common sense while reviewing this list and implementing any household changes.

I am not trained in Veterinary Medicine.  You should always default to your Vet on the best diet to feed your feline, and any questions you have about items in your Kitty’s environment.

In case of an after-hours emergency, please contact Pet Poison Help Line at 800-213-6680.  There will be a small fee for the call.  You can also visit their website for additional information:  http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/

The following list is quite extensive and has been gathered from many sources noted at the conclusion of the list.  I will start with the items that are most surprising, making them the most dangerous for Kitty.
     Tree Tea Oil *
     Aloe Vera ****
     Cedar Oil
          Use for fleas may cause vomiting *
     Essential oils including Oregano,Thyme, Eucalyptus, Clove, Cinnamon, Bay Leaf, Parsley and Savory
          can cause liver damage *
     Essential oils which contain Cedar Leaf, Sage, Hyssop, Cyprus, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Mint,
     Caraway, Citronella ,Clove, Ginger, Chamomile, Thyme and Rosemary
          can cause neurological problems *
     Simmering Potpourri **
     Reed Diffusers **
     Citrus Oil Extracts
         Can cause vomiting
     Dog flea and tick medication (pills, collars, sprays, shampoos)
     Permethrin
          The topical application to cats of flea control products marketed for dogs containing permethrins
          constitutes a major portion of feline toxicities reported to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control
          Center. Some owners also use Permethrin for insect control.

Human Medication, remember, sometimes Veterinarian’s will prescribe an over the counter medication for Kitty.  Always verify the dosage and brand before administrating human medication to Kitty!

     Antidepressants
     Cancer medicines
     Cold medicines
     Diet pills
     Pain relievers
          acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen
     Vitamins and other supplements
     Human Vitamin Supplements Containing Iron
          damage the lining of the digestive system, toxic to the other organs including the liver and
          kidneys

Human Foods***:
     Alcoholic Beverages
          intoxication, coma, and death
     Avocado
     Bones from Fish, Poultry, or Other Meat Sources
          can cause obstruction or laceration of the digestive system
     Canned Tuna fed regularly (For Human Consumption)
         malnutrition, it can contain mercury
     Caffeine from Chocolate, Coffee or Tea
         affect the heart and nervous system and can be toxic
     Chocolate
         contains theobromine and caffeine
     Dog Food fed regularly
          malnutrition and heart disease
     Fat Trimmings
         pancreatitis and contribute to obesity
     Grapes and Raisins
         unknown toxin which damages the kidneys
     Large Amounts Of Liver
         Vitamin A toxicity, which affects muscles and bones
     Macadamia Nuts
         unknown toxin which can affect the digestive and nervous systems
     Marijuana
         Can depress the nervous system and cause vomiting and heart rate changes
     Milk And Other Dairy Products
         Some adult cats do not have sufficient amounts of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down the
         lactose in milk. This can result in diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset
     Mushrooms
          Some contain toxins that affect multiple systems in the body, cause shock, and result in death
     Onions and Garlic (Raw, Cooked, Or Powder)
          contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia
     Persimmons
           seeds can cause intestinal obstruction and enteritis
     Potato, Rhubarb and Tomato Leaves And Stems, Green Tomatoes or Potatoes
          These foods are members of the family of plants which includes the Deadly Nightshade, and
          contain the poisonous alkaloid Glycoalkaloid Solanine, which can cause violent lower
          gastrointestinal problems
     Raw Eggs
          Contain the enzyme avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin), also lead to
          skin and hair coat problems, may contain Salmonella
     Raw Fish
          thiamine deficiency leading to loss of appetite, seizures, and death
     Salt
          large quantities may lead to electrolyte imbalances
     Sugar-Laden Foods
          Can lead to obesity, dental problems, and diabetes mellitus
     Tobacco
          Ingesting nicotine can result in rapid heartbeat, collapse, coma, and death
     Xylitol
          found in sugarless gums, candies, toothpastes
     Yeast Dough
          Can expand and produce gas in the digestive system, causing pain and rupture of the stomach or
          intestines

House Hold Items:
     String
     Tinsel
     Holiday Lights
     Thread
     Dental floss
     Rubber bands
     Hair Ties
     Antifreeze
     Bleach
     Detergent
     Fertilizers
     Herbicides
     Insect and rodent bait
     Household Cleaners
     Toilet bowl cleaners
     Laundry detergents
     Drain cleaners
     Carpet cleaners
     Glow sticks
     Jewelry
     Electrical cords
     Ribbons
     Batteries

Plants:
     Aloe
     Alfalfa
     Almond Pits
     Alocasia
     Amaryllis
          Vomiting and diarrhea
     Apple Seeds
     Apricot Pits
     Arrowgrass
     Azalea
          Incoordination, trembling, collapse
     Baneberry
     Bayonet
     Beargrass
     Beech
     Belladonna
     Bird of Paradise
     Bittersweet
     Black Eye Susan
     Black Locus
     Bleeding Heart
     Bloodroot
     Bluebonnet
     Box
     Boxwood
     Buckeyes
     Burning Bush
     Buttercup
     Cactus
          Punctures skin which can become infected
     Caladium
          Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, shaking head, difficulty breathing
     Cherry Pits
     Cherry (Wild, Ground, laurel)
     Chinaberry
     Christmas Rose
     Chrysanthemums
     Clematis
     Coriaria
     Cornflower
     Coydalis
     Creeping Charlies
          Vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, cramps
     Crocus, Autumn
     Crown of Thorns
     Cyclamen
     Daffodil Daphne
     Daphne
     Datura
     Deadly Nightshade
     Death Camas
     Delphinium
     Dicentrea
     Dieffenbachia
          Central nervous system problems
     Dumb Cane
     Easter Lilly
     Eggplant
     Elderberry
     Elephant Ear
     English Ivy
     Euonymus
     Evergreen
     Ferns
     Flax
     Four o’clock
     Foxglove
     Golden Chain
     Golden Glow
     Gopher Purge
     Hellebore
     Hemlock (poison and water)
     Henbane
     Holly
     Honeysuckle
     Horsebeans
     Horsebush
     Horse Chestnuts
     Hyacinth
     Hydrangea
     Indian Tobacco
     Iris
     Iris Ivy
     Ivy
         Vomiting, diarrhea, excitable behavior
     Jack in the Pulpit
     Java Beans
     Jessamine
     Jerusalem Cherry
     Jimson Weed
     Jonquil
     Jungle trumpets
     Lantana
     Lakspur
     Laurel
     Lily (Spider, of the Valley)
     Kidney failure
     Locoweed
     Lupine
     Marigold
     Marijuana
         Can depress the nervous system and cause vomiting and heart rate changes
     Mescal Bean
     Mistletoe
          Vomiting, diarrhea, blistering in the mouth, difficulty breathing
     Mock Orange
     Monkshood
     Moonseed
     Morning Glory
     Mountain Laurel
     Mushrooms
     Narcissus
     Nightshade
     Oleander
     Peach Pits
     Peony
     Periwinkle
     Philodendron
         Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, shaking head, difficulty breathing
     Poinciana
     Poinsettia
         Vomiting, diarrhea, blistering in the mouth, difficulty breathing
     Poison Ivy
     Poison Oak
     Pokeweed
     Poppy
     Potato
     Precatory Bean
     Privet
     Rhododendron
     Rhubarb
     Rosary Pea
     Rubber Plant
     Scotch Broom
     Skunk Cabbage
     Snowdrops
     Snow on the Mountain
     Staggerweed
     Star of Bethlehem
     Sweetpea
     Tansy Mustard
     Tobacco
     Tomato
     Tulips
     Tung Tree
     Virginia Creeper
     Water Hemlock
     Weeping Fig
     Wild Call
     Wisteria
     Yews (American, English, Japanese)

References:
http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/
*http://messybeast.com/teatree.htm
** Jill A. Richardson, Veterinary Poison Information Specialist, ASPCA/ National Animal Poison Control Center
***http://www.catster.com/cat-health-care/plants-food-poisonous-to-cats
****http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/aloe
http://pets.webmd.com/cats/guide/top-10-cat-poisons
Jeffrey D. Rakes, Published in NCGIA Anatomy and Health Study Packet
(plants poisonous to cats, without details

July 2014 Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter

Hairballs are dangerous and disgusting!

Hairballs are dangerous and disgusting!

Hairballs are just a nuisance!  While Kitty’s Purrfect Spa wished that to be true, they can be much more serious!

What is a Hairball?

It has been long thought that hairballs were the result of self grooming.  When cats lick themselves, the dead fur was swallowed and what was not passed through the digestive system was brought back up and regurgitated.  Recent studies are leaning more toward hair balls being the result of a possible issues with the intestines and/or how digested food moves between the stomach and intestines.  If your cat suffers from daily or weekly hairballs, your first step should always be to seek veterinary advice.

Why are Hairballs Dangerous?

Hair can actually get backed up and packed into your Kitty’s body.  Blockages from hair can occur anywhere in the digestive system.  When these blockages occur, surgery may be your only option. If your kitty experiences Continuous hacking that does not produce a fur ball, frequent diarrhea or loss of appetite you should seek medical help to get to the bottom of the issue.

How Can I Reduce Hairballs In My Home?

Kitty's Purrfect Spa has developed a six month program that will improve your Kitty’s coat condition, in turn reducing the amount of dead hair ingested by your beloved family member.  In addition to feeding your Kitty a high quality food recommended by your veterinarian we are convinced the amount of hair in your home and in your kitty can be significantly reduced.

What Proof Do You Have Your Methods are Successful?

I personally own two domestic long hair cats.  Before I attended the National Cat Groomers Institute of America, I only gave an occasional brushing session to my kitties in addition to hairball food and the occasional dose of hairball medication.  While attending NCGIA, I learned how dangerous and easily preventable fur balls can be.  I was not a believer, however my almost white carpets needed me to give it a try! Victoria, who was 11 at the time, began to receive a bath and brush every four to six weeks and a full belly shave about every eight to sixteen weeks.  Victoria went from having a hairball about twice a week to having no hairballs for over six months now.  I chose a full belly shave for Victoria because she is a shy and sensitive kitty.  I did not think she would appreciate the feeling of not having fur, as it would make her feel more exposed.

Tatianna, 10, is a more outgoing kitty.  She loves her Lion Cuts!  Before her first lion cut, she had hairballs almost daily, now she has about two a month. It took both kitties about four to six weeks to stop having their puking parties.  However, once the excess hair was out of their system my carpet cleaning was reduced significantly!  The results were delightfully surprising and made me a true believer that long hair kitties do not need to suffer from the menacing hairball!

In Conclusion....

Currently, I have many kitties on regular (four to eight week) maintenance plans that are also enjoy the huge reduction in hairballs!I strongly believe that regular grooming can and will reduce hairball issues in healthy cats. Please call for more information on hairball prevention!  661-505-0397

June 2014, Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter

Anal Glads and Cats

Anal Glands and Cats….

Most dog owners, especially those of small breed dogs, know the anal glands need to be expressed on a regular basis to prevent the glands from becoming impacted.  In the United States, many groomers will express the anal glands of small dogs for a small charge.  Did you know it is illegal for groomers in other countries to express anal glands?  Countries such as Canada considers expressing anal glands an invasive procedure that should only be performed by a veterinarian.

Cats verses Dogs, two different species.  Both need their Anal juices to mark their territory and lubricated their bowl movements.  However, felines also release their anal glands when they are angry.  Kitty’s Purrfect Spa, does not need to offer anal gland services because an irritated, stimulated or angry cat will naturally release their anal juices.  When a family member is playing dress up, tea party, or warriors with kitty, and kitty escapes because kitty smells, that is what happened.  Out of irritation, kitty’s juices started flowing.  This is a natural feline response.

During the grooming process, kitty will express their own glands at least three times.  The first being the moment kitty realizes it does not have a choice and will be groomed.  During the bathing process while kitty’s bottom is being cleaned, and during the drying process when the room temperature forced air hits kitty’s private parts.  If kitty is having any kind of shaving in that area, it will release their glands another time. That being said, if your cat is struggling to defecating, you need to seek the advice of a veterinarian.

Thank you Pudge, a regular client, for showing us your before and after picture!

June 2014 Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter

Cats and Allergies

Allergists are now recognizing (what many of us have known forever) that cats ARE a part of the family - and removing the cat is not an option – so, we have to figure out WHAT TO DO!

Let’s start by understanding why many people are “allergic” to cats.  The first reason is that common allergens, such as pollen and dust, just collect – and often get stuck – in Kitty’s fur.  Once we’re past the more common allergens, the culprits have to do with an allergy to proteins found in feline saliva, urine, and dander.  Felines have at least five proteins that can be allergens for humans. (For the scientists — the two major allergens are Fel d 1 and Fel d 4. The minor allergens include Fel d 2, Fel d 3, and cat IgA.)  Unlike the pollen and dust (that just fall or are rubbed into Kitty’s hair), these more complex allergens are deposited in the fur from saliva, urine and the skin.  Cat allergen particles are sticky and small.  At a miniscule size – about one tenth the size of a dust mite particle – they can remain airborne for long periods of time, and then can “stick” to any surface they come into contact with.

What can a cat loving family do?  When divorcing the cat is NOT an option – the easiest (and most reliable solution) is a professional cat groomer!

When it’s “Groomer vs Allergen” what happens?

During each groom at Kitty’s Spa, Kitty’s fur is thoroughly washed and blow dried, which “unglues” and removes most of the allergens and dead fur from Kitty’s coat.  This leaves you with a soft and cuddly Kitty who doesn’t cause a sneeze-fest every time you pet her!

By placing Kitty on a four to six week bath and brush schedule, the professional groomer is able to keep the allergens from building up on the cat’s coat.  A regular routine of professional grooming significantly decreases the amounts of allergens your family is exposed to.

Keeping your family (Humans and Kitty) intact and happy is not easy when humans are allergic.  Many cat owners can’t imagine giving the cat a bath!  In fact, some people don’t even realize that cats CAN be bathed!  By reducing the allergens through regular bathing, my family was able to win the battle and I would like to help your family also make it a reality!

Please contact Kitty’s Spa at www.kittysspa.com for more information.

Published September 2013, The Magazine of Santa Clarita