ASPCA Pet Nutrition Q & A: Ch-ch-changes

Our seven-year-old indoor cat has problems with seasonal allergies. Our vet recommended that we slowly switch her to a sensitive-skin diet formula, but no matter how little of any new food we introduce, her stomach reacts unfavorably. What can we do?
—Beth

Don’t give up, Beth. It may benefit your cat significantly to make a slow transition to a new food. In general, the best way to make the switch to a new product is to start by adding a very small amount of new food to the old food on the first day, then over a number of days or even weeks, slowly increasing the amount of new food while decreasing the amount of old food. This type of slow transition can help to prevent gastrointestinal upset and helps most pets accept dietary change.

Since it sounds like you have already tried this approach, you may want to contact your veterinarian to see if other options exist for your cat. You may be able to try a different brand of food. You should have at least a few good choices when it comes to a sensitive skin diet. There may also be a supplement that you can add to your cat's original food to improve the health of her skin. Your veterinarian should have more information about these supplements.

Horse Behavior Q & A: You Gotta Have Friends...

What can I do to reduce the anxiety that my horse gets when she is taken away from her pasture pals?—Melinda

First, let me briefly explore why your horse might be anxious—understanding the “why” can often help with the “how.” Horses are herd animals. In their natural environment, being with a herd increases the likelihood that any one animal will remain safe and unharmed. A horse’s drive to be with the herd is learned early, and is often quite strong.

To decrease the anxiety, we need to teach your horse two things: that nothing bad happens when she leaves the herd, and that special things happen when she is alone. I suggest taking her for very short walks away from her friends. When she is out of visual range from them, feed her part of her breakfast or dinner. Then return her to the herd. If she likes a particular toy or treat, be sure to give her those items only when she is alone, at least for a few weeks. Also, take care to reassure her when she’s away from the herd—a good long scratch along the crest of her neck is a great bonding tool. This is a behavior that horses often do to each other, and can decrease arousal and help her focus. Good luck, Melinda!


Also new this week:
What’s wrong with a horse if he lies on his side? From what I hear, this is not healthy.

Hot Off the Presses: This Week's ASPCA News Alert

ASPCA ASSISTS IN INVESTIGATION FOLLOWING MAJOR DOG FIGHTING RAID
The ASPCA’s Dr. Melinda Merck, a forensic veterinarian and the premier “Animal CSI” in the country, is currently documenting the medical condition of more than 40 dogs seized in what Merck is calling “one of the most complete examples of a dog fighting operation that I have ever seen.”

PET FOOD RECALL UPDATE: WHAT ALL PET PARENTS SHOULD KNOW
ASPCA experts urge concerned caretakers to stay on high alert during this ongoing crisis—and to please visit the ASPCA Pet Food Recall Resource Center regularly for the latest updates.

ASPCA SUCCESS STORY OF THE WEEK: THE COMEBACK KIT
Barbara Glover cared for a tranquil tortie until she was ready for adoption—but the two-year-old feline, as it turns out, only had eyes for her foster mom.

HELP WANTED: THE ASPCA NOW OFFERING YEAR-LONG INTERNSHIPS
We’re looking for graduate students in animal science to conduct research for an innovative adoption program.

BUSTED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY
A Brooklyn man faces up to two years in prison for beating and killing his acquaintance’s cat.

MOM’S THE WORD THIS MAY 13!
This year, celebrate the special mothers in your life with an ASPCA Honor Gift—and give the gift of life to animals in need.

ASPCA ONLINE COMMUNITY EVENT: TALK TO AN ASPCA ANIMAL COP!
Next Friday, May 4, you’re invited to chat online with one of the ASPCA’s hometown heroes, Special Investigator Paul Romano, from 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. EST.

Pet Poison Q&A: How Does Your Garden Grow?

Can you give me the names of some garden plants that are safe for pets? Thank you.
―Patti M.

If you have not already done so, Patti, you may want to visit our toxic and non toxic plant pages for information on which plants are safe and which ones to avoid. Due to the vast variety of plant species, no list should be regarded as fully comprehensive. However, if there is a specific plant that you are thinking of adding to your garden and it is not on either list, please let us know its scientific name (genus and species), and we will be happy to provide you with more information.

Can I feed my dog fennel to ease her upset stomach?

There is a lot of purple-hued lupine growing in one of the meadows where my horse is allowed to graze. Can this plant be harmful to her?

Pet Food Recall Update: ASPCA Issues New Recommendations On What To Feed Your Pet

As rumors of the spread of contamination in pet foods—possibly intentional—have been confirmed by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the ASPCA today announced new recommendations for pet parents looking for advice on what to feed their pets. These can be found at www.aspca.org/recall, where the organization is also maintaining an updated list of recalled products in real time.

“While we cannot comment on whether this contamination was intentional or accidental, this latest development in the recall crisis is extremely significant,” said Dr. Steven Hansen, a board-certified toxicologist and senior vice president with the ASPCA, who manages the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center (APCC), located in its Midwest Office in Urbana, Ill.

“We now clearly have at least two contaminated ingredients used in pet food manufactured in the U.S., shipped from at least two suppliers in China, over an extended period of time.

“Until such time that the FDA has conclusively identified ALL sources and destinations of the contaminated ingredients—as well as the actual link between the adverse effects of melamine and melamine-related products and the illnesses or deaths of so many pets around the country—we are far from sounding the all-clear, and need to safeguard our pets’ lives vigilantly.”

Read the rest of the release...

Pet Food Recall Update: ASPCA Issues Urgent Advisory As Pet Food Recall Widens

Contaminant Found In New Protein Supplement—Not Just Wheat Gluten—for Pet Food

Urges Pet Parents to Stay Alert and Aware to New Developments in the Recall

The ASPCA today urgently reminded pet parents that the pet food recall crisis, which started almost five weeks ago, is far from over—and, as such, pet parents need to stay alert to new developments as well as the health of their pets.

“Until the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has conclusively identified all the contaminants in the affected pet food, where they came from, and which products they were used in, we cannot consider this crisis over,” said Dr. Steven Hansen, a board-certified toxicologist and senior vice president with the ASPCA, who manages the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center (APCC), located in its Midwest Office in Urbana, Ill.

“Further, the actual link between the adverse effects of melamine and the illnesses or deaths of so many pets around the country is still not clear and, as a result, what exactly is sickening and killing our pets is still a mystery,” said Dr. Hansen.

Read the rest of this release

Horse Behavior Q & A: Crossed Wires in the Cross Ties

My horse seems very impatient in the cross ties. She holds her ears back and acts very annoyed, even if she's only in the ties for five minutes! Do you know why she does this, and is there anything I can do?
―Ellie

There could be several reasons for this behavior, Ellie. For example, if the cross ties are in the barn aisleway, she may be pinning her ears at the horses in stalls near her. However, if she is placed on cross ties for reasons that she perceives as unpleasant, such as a visit to the vet, she may associate them with things that do not feel good.
I suggest randomly putting her on the cross ties, feeding her some grain and then taking her off. Do this often, slowly increasing the length of time―and be sure not to place her on cross ties for unpleasant activities.

Pet Poison Q & A: Bushes & Berries & Trees, Oh My!

I’m looking into planting a crabapple tree, but I want to make sure that it won’t be poisonous to my dogs.
―Ethel C.

Good question, Ethel. It’s always a good idea to check first! The seeds, leaves and stems of the crabapple species contain substances known as cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, a lack of oxygen in the blood, a decreased heart rate, respiratory congestion, seizures and coma. A large enough ingestion could ultimately lead to respiratory failure and even death. Typically, we do not see any problems beyond gastrointestinal irritation in small animals who consume a few pieces of the plant material. Severe clinical effects usually occur in grazing animals such as horses or other livestock, who consume large quantities.

The bottom line? A nibble or two of a fallen crabapple is not likely to pose problems beyond minor stomach upset. Just don’t let your dogs eat them in quantity or allow them to consume the leaves, stems or other parts of the tree.

More new questions this week:

-My greyhound tends to want to munch on our butterfly bush. Could this be harmful to her?

-Are black chokeberry and buckhorn berries poisonous to dogs?

Ask Dr. LaFarge: How Long Is the Grieving Process When a Pet Dies?

My first pet was born in February 1974, just a few months before I was. She lived until March 1995, and I was extremely lucky that she graced my entire childhood and early adult years with her presence. It has been 12 years now since she has passed, and sometimes I still become emotional when I see something that reminds me of her. Most often the memories are happy, but I was wondering if it is “normal” for me to have grieved for so long.
—Carrie

Not only is it “normal” for you to have deeply felt memories of your dog, Carrie, it is sign of a wonderfully rich inner life. As we age, it is appropriate to revisit previous stages of our lives. Since your dog's life span coincided with a very formative phase of your life, you are probably experiencing emotions that encompass more than just your feelings for her.

You might want to explore certain reflective activities like journaling or writing down your memories of your childhood. You are lucky to have access to them through your connection to your dog. Perhaps you have family or friends who can share their recollections of her with you.

Thank you for your email, Carrie. It helped to remind many of us at the ASPCA why our relationship with animals is so important.

Pet Nutrition Q & A: Is My Cat Fat?

Our 9-year-old female cat weighs about 11 pounds. She’s an indoor cat and only gets a small amount of exercise. What should a cat of her age weigh approximately, and should she be eating any special kind of cat food?
―Christina

The answer varies from cat to cat, Christina. Cats with large frames may be at their optimal weight if they weigh eleven pounds, while other cats might be considered overweight. The Iams body condition chart can help you to evaluate your cat's nutritional status.

Your veterinarian can also help you to determine whether or not your cat needs to lose some weight. You might want to plan a visit soon to talk about your cat’s nutritional status and your veterinarian's dietary recommendations.

If your cat does not have special needs that require a veterinary or prescription diet, then I recommend you choose a high-quality brand of food. It is also important to provide opportunities for play and enrichment, especially as your cat ages. Even one play session per day can make a difference for her weight and overall health, and the increased activity will help to keep her fit in her older years. If you’d like a few suggestions, the ASPCA has some great ideas for general enrichment activities.

Ask Dr. LaFarge: Does My Rottie, Dopey, Feel Neglected?

I have a four-year-old Rottweiler named Dopey whom I've had since she was two months old. She has grown very attached to me, as I have to her. I am a senior in high school and work part time, so my schedule has changed and I don’t have a lot of time to spend with her. I have a guilty conscience, and feel like I've abandoned her. Do you think she feels neglected by me?
—Janeth

You are obviously a wonderfully responsible owner, and care a lot about your dog's mental well-being as well has her physical health, Janeth. You asked if she was feeling abandoned since your schedule has changed. The good news about dogs is that they don't lie. If her life had changed for the worse, her behavior would also have changed for the worse. She would be chewing shoes, crying when alone, etc. I am assuming that her behavior is still OK, even though you are less active in her life. I think you must have put such good quality time into her early years that she has the emotional comfort and confidence to cope with the change in your schedule. She is also more mature now, and does not need as many distractions.

It is very important that you monitor her food so that she does not gain weight since she may not be burning as many calories. Your own time sounds tightly scheduled. I hope you take time to be with her, since it is also very good for you.

ASPCA Issues Urgent Alert to Pet Parents: Discontinue Use of Contaminated and Recalled Pet Foods Immediately

ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital Intakes Show Some Pets Still on Recalled Foods

NEW YORK, April 10, 2007—The ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) today issued an urgent alert to pet parents that if they have not already done so, it is imperative for them to discontinue use of the recalled foods immediately.

“More than three weeks into the pet food recall, recent intakes at the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital (BMAH) in New York City show that some pet parents have unwittingly continued to feed their pets the contaminated, recalled foods. Just last night, we admitted a cat into our Intensive Care Unit (ICU) that is in severe renal failure, and has been consuming one of the recalled product codes all this while,” said Dr. Louise Murray, director of medicine at BMAH.

“This is obviously a matter of great concern to us,” continued Dr. Murray. “It is possible that this scenario is being replicated across the country, due to confusion over which brands and product codes are included in the recall—especially with the recent recall expansion—and, as a result, many more animals may be in great danger.”

Read the rest of this press release

Press Release: As Pet Food Recall Expands, ASPCA Asks Pet Parents to Stay Alert—But Calm

NEW YORK, April 5, 2007—With breaking news from Menu Foods that the dates of, and varieties listed in, the original pet food recall of March 16 has just been extended, the ASPCA reminds pet parents to stay alert to the wellbeing of their pets—but also of the importance of continuing to look for the direct link between contaminants and adverse effects on the affected pets.

“This new announcement further increases our concern for the wellbeing of pets around the country,” said Dr. Steven Hansen, a board-certified veterinary toxicologist and senior vice president with the ASPCA, who manages the ASPCA’s Midwest Office, including the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center (APCC). “It is now even more crucial for pet parents to check the codes of the newly-recalled products, and discontinue use of them immediately.”

Read the rest of the press release...

NYC Pet of the Week: Meet Benge

This five-year-old cocker spaniel may be small for his breed, but he carries his weight in affection. “Benge is truly remarkable,” says his foster mom, who took care of him until he was ready for adoption. “He’s so sweet and loving. He's fully housebroken, he gets along very well with cats, dogs and babies―and he's smart. You couldn't ask for better qualities in a dog.”

Unfortunately, this little guy didn't have the best start in life. “Benge came to the ASPCA as the result of a cruelty case," says Gail Buchwald, ASPCA Senior Vice President, Adoption Center & Mobile Clinic, "but with lots of TLC, he has healed beautifully."

Given all that Benge has been through, it's no surprise that he might become a little bit anxious when his human family leaves him, but this youthful pooch is learning how to separate. His latest challenge is eating peanut butter out of a Kong while learning to spend time away from his "person."

Come meet Benge at our Adoption Center at 424 East 92nd St., or call the Animal Placement department at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4120. To see some of the other animals at our shelter who are waiting for homes, please check out our Available Animals list.

Pet Nutrition Q & A: Dogs Who Eat Cat Food

I have a seven-pound Yorkie/min-pin mix who regularly eats dog food, but whenever I go to my father’s house, she eats our cat's food. Is this bad for her?
―Megan

It sounds funny, Megan, but many dogs prefer to eat cat food. Since it’s higher in protein, fat and calories, it’s more tasty. However, most dogs will still eat their own dog food if they aren't offered another choice. Remember that the nutritional needs of cats and dogs are different, and their foods are formulated to meet those specific needs. Although it is not usually harmful if a small amount of the wrong food is eaten, nutritional imbalances affecting your dog’s health could occur if this continues long term. Dietary changes can also cause gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. If at all possible, when visiting your dad, I would recommend that you take your dog’s food with you and that you do not allow her to go near the cat’s food.

Pet Poison Q & A: Is Mulch Too Much?

Is it unhealthy for dogs to eat cocoa bean shell mulch? My dog likes it, and while I try to stop her, if it won’t hurt, I’d rather let her eat it.
― Barbara B.

Mulch, in general, is not a good substance for pets to ingest, Barbara. Dogs consuming enough cocoa bean shell mulch could potentially develop signs similar to that of chocolate poisoning, including vomiting and diarrhea. In cases where very large amounts of mulch have been consumed, muscle tremors and other more serious neurological signs could occur. To date, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center has not received any cases involving animal deaths due to cocoa mulch ingestion. One key point to remember is that some dogs, particularly those with indiscriminate eating habits, can be attracted to any organic matter. Therefore, if you have a dog with such eating habits, it is important you do not leave him unsupervised or allow him into areas where such materials are being used.

In case you have not already seen it, please read this article on our website that provides additional information on cocoa bean shell mulch.

More new questions this week:

- Every now and then I give my Maltese a mashed, hard-boiled egg. Is it safe to continue doing this?

- My family would like to give our shepherd/husky mix a bit of fresh cooked shrimp. Is this okay?

Rabbits as Easter Gifts

Thinking of bringing home a live bunny as an Easter gift this April?

Did you know that…

…Pet rabbits can live from seven to ten or more years and require the same long-term care as dogs and cats?

…Young children and bunnies aren’t such a good match?

…Pet rabbits aren’t low-maintenance pets―they have specific dietary and veterinary needs, and must be handled with care?

…Pet rabbits must live indoors, with their human families?

…Thousands of ex-Easter bunnies are abandoned to shelters or into the wild each year when their novelty wears off?

Learn more...