What is Cystitis?

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By Christian Yost

May 26, 2012
What is Cystitis?

Cystitis is an inflammation of the urinary bladder. Cystitis can also be associated with diseases of the urinary tract such as urolithiasis (urinary stones). In veterinary practices, urinary disorders are a frequent owner complaint. Cystitis is reported in about 3% of the dogs seen by veterinarians.

What are Uroliths?
Uroliths are small stones (also called calculi) that form in the urinary tract (see illustrations below). Oddly enough, uroliths can be the result of an infection — or they can predispose to infection. There are four common types of uroliths, based on composition in dogs. The most commonly seen is struvite, although calcium oxalate, ammonium urate, and cystine calculi are also observed.

What are the Clinical Signs of Cystitis in Dogs?

The most common sign of cystitis is a change in urination habits — increased frequency, decreased amount, straining, or passing blood in the urine. Males, with long narrow urethras, are more likely to suffer obstruction of the urinary tract if uroliths form. Signs of obstruction are straining with little or no production of urine. Uroliths are usually seen in dogs between three and seven years old, but have been reported in young pups and older dogs.

What Causes Cystitis?

An infection that moves up through the lower urinary tract (the area from the urinary bladder to the end of the urethra) is the most frequent cause of cystitis. In male dogs, chronic prostate infection can be a source of bacterial bladder infections. Other conditions that can complicate the infection include urinary stasis (reduced or stopped urinary flow), trauma, abnormal urine composition, or calculi. Between 50 and 95% of struvite urolithiasis is associated with bacterial urinary tract infection, and the most common bacteria found in the urine of infected dogs is Staphylococcus. Until the stones are removed, it is virtually impossible to clear up the infection. Diet does not cause cystitis

How Should Cystitis Be Treated?

Before treating cystitis, a urine culture is normally taken to determine the type of infection involved. X-rays can also be used to identify uroliths present in the urinary tract. Any uroliths identified must be removed. Appropriate antibiotics are then administered. If a dog is prone to reinfection, long-term antibiotic therapy may be necessary.
Vetrinarian-exclusive products include statements such as, “This product is intended for intermittent feeding only” and “Use only as directed by your veternarian.”

Why is an Acidic Urine Important in Treating Cystitis?

Struvite uroliths are more soluble in an acidic urine. If the proper urine pH level is maintained, the conditions for urolith formation are less likely to occur. The ideal pH level for dog urine is acidic, between 6.4 and 6.6. Because reinfection is a common problem in dogs prone to cystitis or urolith formation, oral urinary acidifiers are often prescribed.

Can Diet Help Correct Cystitis?

Diet has been suggested as an alternative to surgical removal of stones. Surgical correction is rapid, while the dissolving process through diet therapy takes at least 3-6 weeks and is effective only for struvite uroliths. Even with struvite stones, the dietary “removal” process requires antibiotics, recheck visits to the veterinarian, and a 3-6 week period of continued presence of stones in the bladder. (Though dietary changes are also prescribed for cats with urinary problems, the compositions of dog and cat diets are quite different and foods designed for cats should not be used for dogs nor vice versa.)

Please visit us at www.siamese-cattailscattery.com

 

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Halitosis (Bad Breath) in Cats

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By: Christian Yost

May 26, 2012

Halitosis, or bad breath, is an unpleasant odor coming from your cat’s mouth. Usually halitosis had oral causes, although sometimes it can be caused by other disease processes.

There are several products on the market to help you deal with bad kitty breath including cat toothbrush and paste, cat treats  that can help minimize tartar or freshen cat breath as well as kitty breath drops.

It is first important to understand and treat any underlying diseases that may be causing the foul odor. These include:

  • Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums)
  • Abscessed tooth or teeth
  • Bone or hair stuck in mouth
  • Oral ulceration
  • Foreign bodies in the mouth (such as plant material or grass awns)
  • Oral neoplasia (tumors of the mouth)
  • Lung diseases, such as lung cancer
  • Severe kidney disease
     
  • Periodontitis (inflammation of the tissue that surrounds the tooth) What to Watch For
  • Oral discharge
  • Oral pain
  • Bloody oral discharge
  • Drooling
  • Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
  • Difficulty eating
  • Depression
  • Diagnosis
  • veterinary care should include diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of the bad breath and help guide subsequent treatment recommendations. Some tests may include:
  • A complete medical history and physical examination
  • A complete oral exam, which may require a brief anesthetic
  • Full-mouth radiographs (X-rays) with a dental machine
  • Periodontal probing (a blunt probe that is used to check the gum/tooth interface) to identify gum and periodontal diseases
  • Treatment
  • Optimal therapy of any serious or persistent medical condition depends on establishing the correct diagnosis. There are numerous potential causes of halitosis and before any treatment can be recommended, it is important to identify the underlying cause. Initial therapy should be aimed at the underlying cause. This treatment may include:
  • Removal of foreign object if present
  • Treatment of any oral tumors as needed
  • Periodontal therapy and root planing (cleaning/scraping the teeth under the gums)
  • Home Care
  • Home care recommendations will depend on the underlying cause of the problem. Some steps that you can take to help eliminate your cat’s bad breath include:
  • Brushing your cat’s teeth daily. Tooth brushes/finger brushes and special toothpastes are available from your veterinarian.
  • Spraying 0.12 percent chlorhexidine (prescribed by your veterinarian) into your cat’s mouth once a day for seven to fourteen days.
  • Following dietary considerations recommended by your veterinarian. Special diethat may be beneficial include Hill’s Prescription Diet T/D®.
  • Evaluation by your veterinarian if the bad breath persists.
  • Please visit us at  www.siamese-cattailscattery.com
 

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Behavior of the Senior Cat

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By: Christian Yost

May 26, 2012

Staying young isn’t an option for any of us. And although aging may not be something that we want to happen, the alternative is worse. But getting old isn’t all bad: It comes accompanied by a wealth of learning and understanding that just isn’t there in the early years. With age comes elderly knowledge, acceptance, inner peace, and serenity, even for cats. But there are some cats for which aging presents some real problems. While some  are clear-minded and physically active, others become confused, disorientated, and generally infirm.

If a healthy cat’slife span is 18 years, by definition, geriatric status is attained when 75 percent of that life span has elapsed, that is, after 13 years of age. Some early geriatric cats are still doing very well at the age of 13 or 14 years whereas others are already beginning to show pronounced aging changes.

In time, all slow down but some slip into a noticeable cognitive decline, now dubbed the “Feline Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome” or Feline  Alzheimer’s disease all too early.

Normal Aging Changes (Age-related Cognitive Decline)

Like people, older cats become less active mentally and physically. Part of the reason for this is aging changes that take place in the brain, but physical factors, such as joint stiffness, may also play a role. Normal aging changes include:

  • Being less active
  • Playing less
  • Sleeping more
  • Reacting less to surrounding events
  • Grooming less
  • Eating less heartilyAll these signs are a result of progressive mental slowing that results from a decreased number of functioning central nerve cells and actual physical shrinkage of the brain.
  • Cognitive Dysfunction (Unsuccessful Agers)
  • Some cats, like some people and some dogs, age poorly. In affected individuals, slowing of their mental processes causes them significant impairment in their everyday lives. Although some of the signs of age-related cognitive decline are similar to those of “normal aging,” it is the extent and nature of the deficits that distinguish true cognitive dysfunction from simple age-related slowing down. Typical signs of feline cognitive dysfunction are described by the acronym DISH.D = disorientation. This means that the cat may wander aimlessly and appear lost or confused at times. He may also fail to recognize family members.

    I = reduced social interactions. Affected cats may no longer greet people warmly or seek their attention as often.

    S = changes in sleep-wake cycle. The cat may sleep more during the daytime but wander aimlessly at night, perhaps crying out.

    H = loss of housetraining. Breakdown of housetraining appears to occur because your kitty forgets where the litter box is or is no longer concerned about personal hygiene.

    The prevalence of cognitive dysfunction increases with age so, for example, if at 13 years of age 10 percent of cats may be affected, 50 percent by age 16, and 90 percent (plus) at age 20.

    The Mechanism

    No one really knows what causes this problem in cats, but extrapolating from what is known about human and canine cognitive dysfunction, the condition probably results from either Alzheimer-like changes in the brain (such as accumulations of beta-amyloid and its formation into plaques) or cerebrovascular disease. In dogs with cognitive dysfunction, the degree of pathological change in the brain correlates closely with the severity of the clinical signs and the same may well hold true in cats.

    The condition is progressive but clinical signs may be reversed for a while by treatment with the monoamine oxidase B inhibitor, selegiline hydrochloride (Anipryl®). This drug is not yet approved for feline use but can legitimately be prescribed extra–label, if indicated. This drug prevents the breakdown of a deficient neurotransmitter, dopamine, in the cat’s brain, helping to restore normal function. Although the exact extent of selegiline’s efficacy has not been determined in cats, again by extrapolation from the situation in dogs, about one third of cats should exhibit a dramatic turnaround, to the point of cure, another third should make significant improvements, and about one third will not respond to the treatment.

    Cats, like dogs, are now living longer than ever before because of improvements in their management, healthcare, and nutrition. It is because of this changing demographic that age-related cognitive decline and cognitive dysfunction have been recognized and have recently come to the forefront. Owners expect their cats to slow down a bit in old age, and this progression may not constitute a major problem for them or their pet. However, when true cognitive dysfunction (also known as dementia) rears its ugly head, owners know that something really needs to be done if the cat is to continue to have anything like a quality existence. It is good to know that, these days, when cognitive decline threatens a cat’s existence, there is something that can be done to offset the problem, and the likelihood of success is good. If we can extend quality existence for a cat by one year through the use of medication, that’s equivalent to a 5-year extension for a person – well worth having for either the cat or person concerned.

  • Please visit us at www.siamese-cattailscattery.com

Bartonellois (Cat-scratch- Disease

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 BY: Christian Yost

May 26,2012

cat-scratch Disease (CSD), also known as Rochalimaea henselae or Bartonella henselae, is an infection in humans that most often occurs after prolonged contact with a young cat. When diagnosed in cats this disease is called feline bartonellosis. It is caused by a bacteria called Bartonella henselae.

All ages, breeds, and sexes of cat are susceptible; however, kittens under one year of age, kittens or cats infested with fleas, and feral cats or former strays are more likely to have the bacteria in their bloodstream. Fleas are believed to play a major role in cat-to-cat and possibly cat-to-human transmission. Cats can be infected with the organism for months, or even years, and never show any clinical signs.

Children and immuno- compromised people may suffer severe disease when infected by these bacteria.

 
 

All ages, breeds, and sexes of cat are susceptible; however, kittens under one year of age, kittens or cats infested with fleas, and feral cats or former strays are more likely to have the bacteria in their bloodstream. Fleas are believed to play a major role in cat-to-cat and possibly cat-to-human transmission. Cats can be infected with the organism for months, or even years, and never show any clinical signs.

Children and immuno- compromised people may suffer severe disease when infected by these bacteria.

cats are considered the major reservoir for these bacteria, although fleas and some other mammals have also been shown to play a role in the disease transmission.

What to Watch For in Cats

Bartonella is not known to cause serious disease in most cats. Most cats will have no clinical signs of illness. Some cats may exhibit:

  • Lethargy
  • Fever
  • Lack of appetite (anorexia)
  • Reproductive difficulty
  • Lymphnode enlargement
  • Vomiting
  • Red eyes (uveitis)
  • What to Watch for in HumansSigns of human disease include raised skin lesions that are red to purple in color. Anywhere from a few to over 100 may be found on the face, trunk, arms and legs. If cat scratch disease spreads internally, it can cause fever, weight loss and vomiting. Upon examination, the liver and spleen may be enlarged. Humans with immunodeficiency problems are at higher risk for disease. DiagnosisI in people, definitive diagnosis generally requires a biopsy for microscopic examination and culture.Other tests to diagnose the organism in cats might include:
  • Blood culture
  • Serology
  • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
  • Complete blood count (CBC)
  • Serum biochemical profile
  • Urinalysis
  • Feline leukemia virus testing (FeLV)
  • Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Testing (FIV)
  • TreatmentCats with no clinical signs of disease do not require treatment. Cats that have clinical signs of disease may be treated with antibiotics and supportive care as needed. There is not a lot of information about treating this disease in cats and much of the information about treatment is extrapolated from studies in human medicine.In people, cat scratch disease responds to several different oral antibiotics, such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, and doxycycline. Antibiotics are usually given for 2 to 3 months unless there is bloodstream or internal organ involvement. In advanced HIV (AIDS) disease, long-term management with lower doses is usually necessary to prevent relapse.Home Care and PreventionThere is no home care for bartonellosis. Preventive care is based on maintaining good hygiene. Wash your hands after handling pets and wash scratches or bites thoroughly. Never let a cat lick an open wound, and maintain meticulous flea control. Preventative flea and tick control is recommended. For more information read , flea and tick control programsBlood cultures and serology should be performed on pets belonging to immuno-compromised people.
  • Please visit us at  www.siamese-cattailscattery.com

Acute Renal (Kidney) Failure in Cats

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by: Christian Yost

May 24,2012

Acute kidney failure (acute renal failure or ARF) is characterized by an abrupt decline in kidney function that leads to changes in the chemistry of the body including alterations in fluid and mineral balance. The changes that arise as a result of ARF affect almost every body system.

The kidneys filter blood, remove the waste products of metabolism and eliminate them in the urine. The kidneys also regulate the volume and composition of body fluids (including mineral concentrations and acid base balance), and produce hormones that stimulate the production of red blood cells (erythropoietin) and regulate calciumbalance (calcitriol).

Acute kidney failure can be caused by toxic injury to the kidneys, decreased blood flow and oxygen delivery to the kidneys, infections, obstruction of the kidneys and prevention of urine elimination caused by a ruptured bladder.

The recent recognition of kidney failure is not necessarily the same as acute renal failure, since some animals with chronic kidney failure tolerate it for some time before symptoms are apparent.

There is no specific breed predilection but older animals are thought to be at greater risk for acute kidney failure. Acute kidney failure is more common in the fall and winter due to pet exposure to anti-freeze which contains ethylene glycol. Cats that are allowed to roam outside without supervision potentially have increased exposure to ethylene glycol.

The symptoms of ARF, although often severe, are not specific. Even with intensive management, ARF is a very serious disorder and often is fatal.

What to Watch For

  • Disorientation
  • Incordination
  • Decreased urine production
  • Straining to urinate
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy
  • Vomiting
  • Weakness
  • Changes in water consumption and urination Diagnosis  Your veterinarian will take a complete medical history specifically questioning exposure to ethylene glycol (anti-freeze), recent surgery or anesthesia (possibly causing decreased blood flow to the kidneys), exposure to drugs toxic to the kidneys (aminoglycoside group of antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and previous illnesses. The following diagnostic tests may also be necessary to recognize acute kidney failure and exclude other diseases. Tests may include:
  • Complete physical examination
  • Serum biochemistry tests
  • Urinalysis
  • Complete blood count
  • X-rays of the abdomen
  • Culture of the urine
  • Ultrasound examination
  • Kidney biopsy
  • Ethylene glycol test
  • Blood tests for certain infections Treatment ARF is a life-threatening serious condition that requires hospitalization and intensive treatment. Treatment consists of identification and correction of life-threatening problems while searching for the underlying cause of ARF. Treatment for ARF may include one or more of the following:
  • Induce vomiting
  • Intravenous fluids
  • Drugs that encourage urine production
  • Management of blood electrolyte abnormalities
  • Monitor urinary output
  • Control of vomiting
  • Management of anemia
  • Peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis
  • Treatment with 4-methylpyrazole (Antizol®) or ethanol
    Acute renal failure is a life-threatening condition and there is no effective home treatment. If you suspect your pet has this condition, or if you even suspect your pet may have consumed even a small amount of anti-freeze, you should call your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian may instruct you to induce vomiting before bringing your pet to the hospital.Administer any medications prescribed by your veterinarian. Follow-up examinations and laboratory tests are important to assess your pet’s response to treatment. Allow free access to fresh clean water.

    Preventative Care

    Avoid exposure to ethylene glycol (anti-freeze), and avoid exposure to drugs known to be toxic to the kidney (e.g. aminoglycoside antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Don’t allow cats to roam outside unattended.

  • Acute renal failure (ARF) is a life-threatening disorder that can affect cats of any age.Acute renal failure may be caused by decreased blood flow to the kidneys (called ischemia) or exposure to certain drugs or chemicals that are toxic to the kidneys.
  • Low blood flow to the kidneys may occur during anesthesia and surgery, and some drugs such as the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents like ibuprofen may also cause ARF by reducing blood flow to certain parts of the kidneys. Other causes of reduced blood flow to the kidneys include severe dehydration, shock, poor heart function, heat stroke and overwhelming infection (sepsis).
  • Many toxins can damage the kidneys and lead to ARF. Probably most important is ethylene glycol, which is the active ingredient of anti-freeze. Some antibiotics, especially a class of injectable antibiotics known as aminoglycosides, can cause damage to the tubules of the kidney and ARF.
  • High blood calcium concentration likewise can damage the kidneys. Heavy metals (e.g. lead, arsenic), contrast dyes used for certain X-ray procedures, and some anesthetics also can damage the kidneys. An important toxin that specifically affects the kidneys of cats is the Easter Lily. Cats should never be allowed access to this group of plants. Some older drugs used to treat heart worms (thiacetarsamide) and fungal infections (amphotericin B) also are toxic to the kidneys.
  • Acute bacterial infection of the kidneys (called pyelonephritis) also can produce ARF.
  • Rare causes of ARF include glomerulonephritis (acute inflammation of the microscopic filtering devices of the kidney called glomeruli), glomerular amyloidosis (deposition of an insoluble type of protein in the kidney), disseminated interavascular coagulation (a body-wide clotting disorder), obstruction by blood clots of the arteries going to the kidneys, and hemolytic-uremic syndrome (liver and kidney failure caused by a specific strain of the bacteria E. coli).
  • Urinary obstruction is a type of reversible ARF that is treated by relieving the obstruction.The most common causes of death during treatment of ARF are high blood potassium concentration, acid-base disturbances, very high concentrations of waste products in the blood that do not improve with fluid therapy and excessive administration of fluids with fluid accumulation in the lungs.Animals unable to produce urine despite medical treatment have little chance for survival without peritoneal dialysis (infusion and removal of fluid into the abdominal cavity to remove waste products from the body). Hemodialysis can be performed in animals but is only available at selected referral hospitals and is very costly.The prognosis for recovery of kidney function in ARF depends on the severity of the kidney damage, the underlying cause of ARF and supportive treatment.

    Other medical problems can lead to symptoms similar to those encountered in ARF. A thorough medical evaluation is needed to diagnose ARF including laboratory testing and diagnostic imaging (X-rays or ultrasound). Warning signs that owners may see in pets with ARF include complete loss of appetite, marked lethargy, and vomiting. Unfortunately, these symptoms are very non-specific and may be caused by many other disease conditions. If is important to consult your veterinarian promptly.

  • Veterniarn care should include diagnostic tests of kidney function, including blood tests and urinalysis, and subsequent treatment recommendations.
  • DiagnosisDiagnostic tests may be needed to recognize ARF and to exclude other diseases. Tests may include:
  • A complete medical history and physical examination
  • A complete blood count (CBC) to evaluate for signs of infection, inflammation, anemia or clotting abnormalities
  • Blood biochemistry tests to identify the presence of kidney failure. Commonly used tests to identify kidney failure include blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine, and serum phosphorus. These test results are abnormally high in patients with kidney failure but these tests alone do not identify whether the kidney failure is acute or chronic. The veterinarian must use other tests and diagnostic reasoning to determine if the kidney failure is acute or chronic
  • Urinalysis. Protein, blood or glucose may be observed in the urine of patients with ARF. The presence of microscopic crystals (such as calcium oxalate) can support a diagnosis of ethylene glycol (anti-freeze) poisoning. Microscopic casts of the kidney tubules often are seen with acute injury of the kidney, and white blood cells or casts may be found when kidney infection is present.Additional diagnostic tests may be recommended for individual pets, including:
  • Kidney ultra-sonography to determine if the kidney failure is acute or chronic and to help identify some specific causes of ARF (e.g. anti-freeze poisoning). Kidneys of patients with ARF typically are normal-sized to large. The presence of small, irregularly-shaped kidneys more often suggests a chronic kidney disease. Cats that drink anti-freeze often have kidneys that have increased density on  within a few hours of consuming anti-freeze.
  • A urine culture to identify urinary tract infection
  • Blood gas analysis to identify acid-base disturbances
  • Arterial blood pressure should be monitored because high blood pressure can complicate ARF. Central venous pressure may be monitored with a catheter in the jugular vein, especially if an inadequate volume of urine is produced.
  • Ethylene glycol testing to diagnose this toxicity; a special test kit is required for this purpose.
  • Kidney biopsy may be necessary to determine the cause of ARF and to guide treatment and prognosis.Therapy treatments for ARF may include one or more of the following:
  • Treatment of ARF must be individualized based on the cause and severity of the condition, as well as other conditions and complications identified by your veterinarian. Of great importance is the ability of the pet to produce urine. Low urine output or complete absence of urine production is a very serious finding.
  • Prognostic signs are poor if the pet does not respond to initial drug and fluid therapy. The ultimate goal of ARF management is to provide supportive care while allowing the kidneys time to recover. Your veterinarian should identify and correct the most life-threatening body chemistry problems while searching for the cause of ARF. Drugs that may be contributing to ARF should be discontinued. Dehydration is corrected by intravenous administration of fluids.
  • Vomiting may be induced if a kidney toxic agent has been ingested within the past few hours and the cat has not yet vomited. This is especially important in anti-freeze poisoning in which time is critical. Always call your veterinarian immediately if you believe your pet has consumed even the smallest quantity of anti-freeze.
  • Fluid therapy is important to increase kidney blood flow, correct and prevent dehydration and control abnormalities in serum electrolytes. Care must be taken to avoid over hydration, because the kidneys may not be able to produce sufficient urine to eliminate excess fluid. Over  hydration can lead to fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema) which may be life-threatening. Nevertheless, fluid therapy is extremely important initially, and drug therapy may be required to encourage urine production.
  • Fluid therapy may aid kidney function and encourage urine production. Diuretics may be used after re-hydration. Mannitol and furosemide are diuretic agents that may be given, often in combination with dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical that causes dilation of the renal arteries and potentially can increase filtration in the kidneys when administered at low dosages.
  • Management of hyperkalemia (high blood potassium concentration) is important because potassium is toxic to the heart. Treatment may include sodium bicarbonate, glucose and insulin, calcium, or dialysis. An electrocardiogram should be monitored during treatment.
  • Acid base imbalance is corrected by administration of sodium bicarbonate.
  • Abnormally high blood phosphorus concentration may be treated with intestinal phosphorus binders such as aluminum hydroxide.
  • Cats with ARF may vomit frequently and several different drugs may be used to control this symptom.
  • Anemia due to blood loss can be treated with blood transfusion.
  • Ethylene glycol poisoning may be treated with 4-methylpyrazole (Antizol) or 20 percent ethanol.Close patient monitoring is vital. Monitoring may include serial body weight (to facilitate proper fluid therapy), measurement of urine output (often with a urinary catheter), packed cell volume (an indication of the percentage of the blood that consists of red blood cells), and total plasma proteins to monitor fluid volume. Serial determination of serum biochemistry tests is necessary to determine if the animal is responding to treatment.Treatment for ARF may require several days or as long as two to three weeks depending on the underlying cause of ARF and the response of the individual animal to treatment. This prolonged hospitalization can be frustrating for all concerned, because it frequently is impossible to predict the outcome. If conservative medical treatment fails, peritoneal dialysis (or in exceptional circumstances hemodialysis) may be a treatment possibility. Referral to a specialist or 24-hour critical care facility is required for dialysis treatment.Euthanasia must be considered for pets that do not respond to treatment.
  • Please visit us at www.siamese-cattailsattery.com

Lehmanns celebrate 100 years in Canada

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 April 7, 2009

Excerpt from The SASATCHEWAN VALLEY NEWS

August 14, 1991

More than 160 descendants of Wilhelm and Karolina gathered at Rosthern on Sunday, August 4, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Lehmanns immigration to Canada.  Wilhelm and Karolina with their three children, Anna, Albert and Karl came to Canada in 1890. Following a breif stay in Manitoba, the family homestead at Rosthern, N.W.T.; in 1894, where they developed a successful farming operation while raising a family of four daughters and seven sons.  Here they were instrumental in the establishment of the Elberfeld School and organizing the Rosthern Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

The theme for the reunion was 100 Years- Our Legacy.”  Activities began with an evening social Saturday evening on the homestead site. Sunday schedule included a praise service in the morning, a noon banquet, an afternoon family program.  Picture taking, visiting and reminiscing rounded out the program.

Relatives and friends from as far as Australia, Germany and the United States. Others came from Nova Scotia and all other provinces from Ontario and West to Alberta.

Commemorative gifts were presented to the oldest surviving descendant, Herbert of Rosthern and to the youngest, Marcus David Keenan of Winnipeg.

There are  two surviving  members of Wilhelm and Karolina Lehmann’s Family. Both are living in the Rosthern  area. Herb and his wife Erna reside on the orginal homestead farmsite, and Luise resides in Rosthern.

 

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Fun and Games

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By: Christian Yost

May 24, 2012

If your pet is more like a couch potato than a curious cat on the go, it’s time to pump her up. Play. Experts agree on this cat care tip: some of us should do it more. It improves health, enhances appearance and adds a sense of mental well-being. And it only takes a few minutes a day. Exercise. You are your cat’s own personal trainer.

“Exercise benefits felines with increased overall health, including a longer lifespan. “It relieves stress, reduces aggression and keeps cats alert. Exercise just makes cats feel better.” A feline fitness plan may seem strange to you, but there are ways to get your cat in condition.

Let’s Play!
It may sound like work, but to cats, exercise is just plain fun. One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to keep your kitty fit is to play with her. Just 15 to 30 minutes a day of play can help keep your cat in shape and strengthen the bond between the two of you. Here are some cat care tips to get you and your cat in the habit of regular exercise:

  • Start slowly! Build up to 30 minutes of exercise a day, depending on your individual cat.
  • Break play sessions into 5- to 10-minute segments throughout the day.
  • Choose safe cat toys. Avoid string or other items she can swallow.
  • Never force a cat to do an activity. Let her decide.
  • If you feel like your cat is getting too wound up, stop playing.
  • Play with your cat before meals, not immediately after.
  • Have water available at all times.
  • Use praise and petting instead of treats to keep her interested.

There are hundreds of cat toys on the market today as well as lots of low- and no-cost toys you can make yourself. “Cats get bored,”. “Have a good variety of toys, but alternate which ones you leave out.”

However, even the best toy won’t get your cat active without you. Cats like interaction. Although the toy is part of that, having a playmate will double her interest and the time she spends exercising.

Please visit us at www.siamese-cattailscattery.com

 

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Inter-Cat Aggression

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By: Christian Yost

May 24, 2012

Aggression is the number two feline behavior problem reported to behaviorists, second only to inappropriate elimination. Cat shows several different types of aggression including status-related (dominance) aggression, fear aggression, territorial aggression, and redirected aggression.

Territorial Aggression

By nature, cats are solitary hunters, not pack animals. However, when food is plentiful, as it is in most of our homes, a group of cats can often live harmoniously, at least most of the time. But even well fed cats retain their instinct to define and defend a territory. Outdoor cats mark their territory with urine, feces, and various natural odors (so-called “pheromones”) from various scent glands. Scent marking serves to indicate that the territory is occupied and reduces encounters between cats.

In close quarters, though, cats often live by certain subtle territorial rules, respecting distinct territories within a single room, like access to a particular couch or favored window perch. Moreover, some feline housemates learn to “time share” these favored locations with one cat taking the front window in the morning and the other taking it over in the afternoon.

Unfortunately, anything that disturbs the established “rules” can lead to confrontation, and what starts as occasional minor spats of aggression may erupt into a full-blown feud unless precautions are taken. It is important to keep in mind that when cats are confined indoors they have little chance to avoid each other, and aggression, once it occurs, is often compounded.

Problems with territorial aggression are most common when a new cat is added to the household. If sudden introductions lead to aggression, this can set the stage for future battles and may not bode well for the future. The way to circumvent this problem is to gradually introduce unfamiliar cats to each other across a closed door. A gradual introduction of a new cat to the household may take two to three weeks. This said, if initial animosities are mild, they often resolve spontaneously over a period of four months, even without such precautionary measures.

Territorial aggression between cats in the same household tends to develop gradually. The more confident cat may begin to guard various resources and threaten its feline housemate over the slightest infraction. Gradually the threats may progress to attacks and the victim may become progressively more frightened. Depending on the victim’s temperament, he may choose to retaliate or hide, only making an appearance when the territorial cat is not around. Occasionally litter box problems may arise because the fearful cat is too afraid to leave his hiding place. Additional problems of spraying and other forms of marking may occur if both cats are of close to equal status.

Non-Recognition Aggression

This explosive type of aggression occurs between feline housemates that have previously had a reasonable relationship. It probably occurs through “failure of recognition.” Non-recognition is most often triggered when one cat in the family is brought back from the veterinarian’s office, or the groomer, and smells and behaves differently. If a fight ensues, it can damage irreparably the relationship between the cats and lead to the development of territorial aggression. It is best avoided by separating indoor cats after outside excursions until it can be established that they are friendly toward each other.

Redirected Aggression

Aggression intended for an outdoor intruder that is redirected onto a feline housemate can also severely damage the social bond between cats that have previously cohabited in harmony. A typical scenario is of one cat resting by a window when a second cat sees an intruder cat outside the window and rushes to attack it. A sudden conflagration ensues with both cats fighting with one another. Theories as to who first attacks whom vary. One theory is that the would-be attacker, behind the window, being unable to attack the unwelcome visitor on the other side of a window, turns and attacks the cat next to it instead. This is true “redirected aggression” and is analogous to an angry man who punches a wall.

A second possible scenario is that one of the inside cats becomes extremely frightened by its buddy’s aggressive display (intended for the cat outside) and adopts a defensive posture with its pupils dilated, claws unsheathed, crouched body posture, ears flattened, and perhaps hissing and swatting. The other cat observes this display, interprets that it is about to be attacked, and takes the offensive. A fight ensues.

A variation on the theme of redirected aggression occurs when two cats are resting in the same vicinity when a frightening incident occurs, such as an unusual and particularly loud noise. Both cats are startled and assume a defensive posture. When they see each other in this stance, they each assume the other is ready to launch an attack. Each cat responds defensively, a fight erupts, and they remain fearful and aggressive toward each other afterwards.

In cases of redirected aggression, the cats should be separated immediately. If this is done and they are given several hours, if not overnight, to cool off you may be able to reintroduce them the next day over a bowl of food.

General Recommendations

  • Neuter all cats.
  • Keep nails trimmed as short as possible to lessen the chance of injury.
  • Set aside 10 to 15 minutes every day for each cat for interactive playtime. Encourage continuous aerobic play with laser pens, feather wands, or toys on strings to reduce anxiety and release energy.
  • Place bells on the cats so you can locate them. The bells must be loud and have different tones allowing you to distinguish the cats. This will also allow the cats to know each other’s whereabouts so there will be less chance for a surprise attack.
  • Rub each cat daily with a towel that has the other cat’s scent to familiarize each cat with the other’s scent.
  • Treatment with facial pheromones may be helpful. These pheromones are thought to have a calming effect and are associated with pleasurable experiences and “friendly cats.” If cats end up in a fight, do not reach between them as you could be injured. Instead, separate them with a blanket, broom, or whatever is handy. Alternatively, make a loud noise to startle them by dropping a pan or book. Cats become extremely agitated after an aggressive event and respond best to isolation until they become calm. You should banish the aggressor to a less desirable area. Cats may need to be separated for as long as 12 hours before they calm down and it is safe to reintroduce them.
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Aggression – Medical Causes

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By: Christian Yost

May 24, 2012

There are a variety of medical causes of aggression in cats. Here is a list of the more common ones.

Hyperthyroidism

Whenever an aging cat shows a sudden change of attitude associated with aggression, hyperthyroidism must be high on the list of differential diagnoses. Affected cats show unexplained weight loss, hyperexcitability, increased appetite, increased thirst, and may have palpably enlarged thyroid glands. Gastrointestinal upsets and cardiovascular problems are also often associated with the problem. Confirmation of the diagnosis is by detection of elevated thyroid hormone levels (T4 will suffice).

Ischemic Encephalopathy

This is a parasitic condition that primarily affects young to middle-aged outdoor cats. It is cased by aberrant migration of Cuterebra larvae.

A sudden change in behavior featuring, sometimes featuring irrational aggression may be the only presenting sign, but other neurological signs, including sudden onset blindness and circling may also occur. There is no established treatment though the parasiticide, ivermectin, along with appropriate supportive therapy, may help.

Brain Tumor

The presence of a brain tumor should be considered when an older cat shows a gradual or sudden change in behavior, sometimes including increased aggression. Other neurological signs are usually also present, though these signs may be subtle. Confirmation of the diagnosis is by CT scan or MRI, and treatment, if feasible, is by surgical removal of the mass.

Head Trauma

Sudden trauma to the head can cause a subdural hematoma or direct cortical damage with resultant changes in behavior. Surgical drainage of hematomas is sometimes possible and should be considered. Brain contusions (bruises) may resolve spontaneously or may be treated using corticosteroids or opioid antagonists.

Thiamine Deficiency

Cats fed diets including large amounts of uncooked freshwater fish may develop thiamine deficiency because uncooked fish contains high levels of the enzyme, thiaminase. Signs of thiamine deficiency include an unkempt coat, hunched position, and neurological signs including altered reflexes, disturbances of balance, aggression, and possible seizure.

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Copulating Aggression in Cats

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By: Christian Yost

MaY 24, 2012

The term copulating aggression implies aggression somehow linked to the breeding process, though there may be displaced or dysfunctional expressions of this behavior, too.

From Male to Female

As odd as it may seem, male cats spring on a receptive female and bite her in the scruff, pinning her down as they inter-mount  for a few seconds of orgasmic pleasure. The bite is not a faint one, either, and is performed with sufficient tenacity to allow the brief mating process to take place without the possibility of the female turning on the male or running away. The female’s behavior both before and after mating may explain the male’s forceful approach that effectively secures the target of his amorous attentions and at the same time protects him from reciprocal hostility.

From Female to Male

As a female comes into heat, her impending receptivity attracts one or more suitors who, typical males that they are, all want to get on with the business of mating in haste without much courtship and with all due haste. Not so, slow down, is the signal the female gives as she waits for the correct moment before lowering her drawbridge. Premature advances are met with aggression, hissing, spitting, and batting, until just the precise moment for optimum biological success. At this point she allows the advance, stoically accepts the neck bite,   herself, and no doubt “thinks of England.” However, the very moment the dastardly deed is done, and perhaps not least due to the sudden withdrawl of his nibs barbed penis, she lets out a cry, rolls over, and (seemingly) tries to take a hunk out of him, swatting and pawing as she hisses and spits various indignities. All in all, not the most amorous of encounters.

From Neutered Male to Willing Recipient

I have often heard owners describe the aggressive behavior of their neutered male cat toward their neutered female cat  in in terms that sound, for all the world, like male mounting behavior. A recent case involved a small, blind female cat that was constantly attacked by her neutered male housemate. He would run up to her from behind , launch himself at her and bite her in the neck, pinning her for several seconds at a time. He engaged in this behavior so often that the hair was thinning on the nape of the female’s neck and she was becoming extremely anxious about these intermittent and inescapable attacks. This was not territorial aggression, because the cats got on reasonably well at other times and did not appear to be related to fear or dominance. The only reasonable explanation was sexual aggression by the neutered male. That the behavior was suppressed by adding the odor of a male pheromone to the female’s rump supported this explanation. Although copulating behavior by castrates may sound far-fetched, it is known that some neutered males continue to show male behaviors for some time after neutering, and “some time”can be almost indefinitely. This is because neutering does not make a male cat an “it,” rather a neutered male (i.e. a male with no testes and thus extremely low blood levels of the male hormone testosterone). Maleness is a property bestowed, in utero, by fetal testosterone as it first bathes the developing brain. The changes that result are permanent but are only fully activated by testosterone when it begins to flow during adolescence. When testosterone is removed (by castration), it is as if the lights are turned down, but not out. A dimmer switch analogy works well to describe this situation.

Sometimes, the recipient of residual maleness, mounting and aggression, is another male cat. I have even heard of it being directed toward objects.

Solution

  • Make the aggressor wear a large, loud bell so that the cat agressed upon can hear it coming and get out of the way.
  • Topical pheromone treatment [e.g. Feliway® or androstenol] applied to the victim might serve to discourage unwanted attacks.
  • Medication of the aggressor with progesterone-like compounds might be helpful for short-term management.
  • Serotonin-specific antidepressants  (e.g. Prozac) can be employed for longer term treatment.ConclusionIt might seem odd that aggression and copulation would be so intimately linked but , then again, they often are. Even the brain centers that control these behaviors are next door neighbors. That pain is involved in the mating process is no big surprise either, since pain stimulates the sympathetic nervous system which in turn facilitates orgasm and ejaculation. The Beatles once sung, “You were told when you were young that pain would lead to pleasure.” Apparently they were right. The entwining of all these behaviors and experiences in the procreative act is normal and natural phenomenon. But neutered cats that mount, bite, and otherwise terrorize other cats in the households– for humanitarian reasons – have their jets cooled. So, if you see a red-blooded tomcat biting a female in the neck or a queen cat giving her suitor hell, you don’t have to worry or assume the worst. However, if you see a neutered male beating up on an under cat, it’s time to report this behavior to authorities who can do something to help address the problem.
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