Why Is My Cat Tearing Up

Your Cat May Be Suffering From Pica

Pica is a behavioral urge among some cats to eat non-edible things like fabric, cardboard, plastic or paper. Some breeds such as the Tonkinese, Siamese and other Oriental manifest this behavior more than others. This behavior is often observed among cats that were weaned too early.

These are the probable causes of pica among cats:

Due to medical issuess

Pica may be a result of health conditions like leukemia and immunodeficiency virus and diabetes or a brain tumor.

Due to dietary deficiencies

There may be something amiss in your cats diet that is why she resorts to eating paper. This has been observed for example among cats with anemia which have the tendency to eat cat litter.

Due to environmental factors

While most cats are playful some breeds are not the athletic and energetic kind. Nevertheless, cats require environmental stimulation to keep them active and alert.

Due to a compulsive disorder

Another potential cause of pica could be due to a compulsive disorder. A cat may have a compulsive disorder if she manifests repetitive or exaggerated behavior.

Your Cat Is Treating The Paper As Prey

Its very easy to forget that cats have built-in killer instincts even if they have never lived a day outside in the wild.

The instinct to hunt is relatively powerful in cats, leading them to simulate hunting by attacking inanimate objects around the home. Often cats will begin their hunt by pouncing on the objects they are interested in, later kangaroo kicking the object as a form of killing the object.

Cats will also exhibit this instinct by trying to tear the inanimate object apart, as they would the flesh of an animal. Similarly, cats will do this to soft or malleable objects such as paper or cardboard.

In cases where your cat is treating the paper as prey, I would recommend trying to find a large toy for them to kick around and play with. A great example of a toy is the KONG Wrangler Scratch Mouse.

I would also look into getting your cat some soft catnip toys, that way they have something to kick around and bat at if larger toys arent their thing.

The biggest issue with cats who treat paper like prey is that they often swallow the pieces of paper. Though paper is not the most harmful thing a cat can swallow, paper can cause blockages if it bunches up in a cats stomach/intestines.

Not only can paper get stuck in a cats stomach, but some paper is also considered toxic towards cats. Make sure that you always keep an eye on your cat to ensure that none of the paper is actually being swallowed.

Which leads us to the next point.

Are The Tissues Around Their Eyes Inflamed And Red

If you see this in one or both eyes, along with a watery discharge, theres a good chance they have conjunctivitis. You may know it by its nickname, pinkeye.

It’s the most common eye problem for cats. An infection, an allergy, or even dust can bring it on. Pinkeye is contagious, so most cats will have it at least once in their lives. They can get it at any age, but it most often affects young animals.

Feline herpes virus also causes pinkeye. Your cat can get shots to protect them from this, but they could have picked it up when they were a kitten. If they have the virus, they are infected for life. But the vaccine can reduce their symptoms.

Easing their stress can prevent flare-ups. If they have an outbreak of herpes-related pinkeye, your vet will prescribe antibiotics and an antiviral drug for you to use.

Pinkeye often clears up without treatment. If you see discharge and your cat seems to be in pain, take them to the vet. Theyll make sure that a more serious problem isnt causing the symptoms.

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Feline Herpesvirus : Its Not Just A Cold

Most cats have at one time or another been exposed to Feline Herpesvirus. Some cats will show symptoms for the virus. Other cats will be carriers and show no symptoms because the virus lies dormant in their systems.

The virus can activate at any time, especially when a cat is stressed. Unfortunately, theres no cure, but FHV-1 can be managed to make the cat more comfortable and minimize flare-ups.

Symptoms:

• Upper respiratory symptoms coughing, runny nose, or sneezing
• Conjunctivitis swelling or inflammation of the outer lining of the eye
• Corneal ulcerations these are serious eye issues that need immediate vet attention to maintain vision in your kitty

Diagnosis & Treatment:

• Fluorescein eye stain test todetectif an ulcer or injury is present
• Eye drops or a topical ointment to ease symptoms and heal infections
• Oral antibiotics or antiviral medications to treat an upper respiratory infection if present
• Lowering stress asstress can activate the virus
• Lysine vitamin supplements may help reduce or eliminate virus flares

About Edele Grey Bsc Mvb Cert Esm Certavp Mrcvs

Graduating in 2013, Edele has had a passion for writing and education, further stimulated during the completion of an Internship in Equine Medicine and Surgery within the University of Liverpools Equine Hospital, UK. Since graduation, she has continued to write for scientific journals and websites primarily aimed towards maximizing the pet-owner bond and welfare through education accessible to everyone.

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Access To Cardboard Tube

Once a cat has shredded toilet paper, thefun is not over. The cardboard tube in the middle of a toilet roll acts as areward for cats. This is particularly prevalent in cats that eat their liveprey. The hunt was satisfying, but there is still more to gain from theexperience.

Even if your cat is not food-focused, toilet roll tubes can be used for additional fun and games. Due to their cylindrical shape, toilet roll tubes can be rolled and chased. They are also slightly tougher than toilet roll. This makes shredding more challenging.

You can turn your cats fascination with toilet rolls and tubes to your advantage. Save money on expensive toys by making DIY alternatives. Examples of these could include:

• Treat rattle: Fold over the corners of the tube and fill with treats
• Mobile scratching post: Stuff the tube and wrap with string
• Puzzles: Glue toilet roll tubes together and hide treats within
• Hunt and Chase: Attach string to the tube and let your cat chase it

There are many options open to cat owners with toilet roll tubes. Dont just toss them in the recycling. They make a great, low-cost boredom buster.

Why Is My Cat Sneezing

If your cat is sneezing, it may be difficult to pinpoint the cause. There are various, reasons why your cats may be experiencing this symptom including:

• Nose tickle
• Exposure to strong smells, like chemicals
• Small foreign objects like a piece of food or yarn
• Allergies
• Trauma or blow to the nose

Not every sneeze is a cause for concern, but it is important to look for a pattern in the sneezing, as well as other symptoms.

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Why Do Cats Pull Out Their Fur

The answer to why do cats pull out their fur is a complex one. If youre a cat parent and suddenly find your precious fur ball has bald spots, its very upsetting. You feel somehow its your fault, even though its not.

In truth there are a number of reasons why cats pull out hair and in this post youll discover some of the more common as well as unusual ones. Well also look at effective ways to stop fur pulling, and which ones are best for your cat.

Conjunctivitis: Yes Cats Can Get Pink Eye Too

Conjunctivitis is a common reason for your cats eyes to be red and inflamed. Conjunctivitis, or Conjunctiva, is the inflammation of the thin mucous membrane on the outer surface of the eye. When it gets irritated by foreign bodies, infected, or injured, it can get red and uncomfortable. Some other causes can be Feline Herpesvirus or Calicivirus. Whether the Conjunctivitis is bacterial, viral, or fungi based, it can be cleared up quickly with a vet visit, diagnosis, and treatment.

Symptoms:

• Eye discharge that is different or discolored
• Third eyelid covering part of the eye

Diagnosis & Treatment:

• Aculture or specimen to determine the origin of the infection
• Blood or urine samples to confirm infection
• Eye drops or topical ointments applied to the eyes to reduce inflammation and heal the eyes
• Oral antibiotics or anti-viral medications may be prescribedif an infection or fungus is present

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So Now You Know The Answer As To Why Cats Pull Out Their Fur

As youve discovered its most likely to be caused by stress or allergies. What youd never give a second thought to, your cat may see as being the most stressful thing ever! Cats are highly sensitive creatures and not as adaptable as us humans.

Weve also covered other causes including illness and arthritis, as well as recommended ways to treat them. Most causes of cats pulling out fur are not serious. Many are easily treatable at home without visiting a vet. However, if you find your cat is still over grooming and biting her skin you should see a vet. Providing its a stubborn parasite or skin infection that wont heal, youll be given the right medication to clear it up.

If youve enjoyed reading my post and found it useful, please share Id also love you to share any experiences you may have had with a cat pulling out its fur. Please feel free to leave any comments below.

Wishing you a purrfect day Kathy

What Are The Signs Of Epiphora

The most common clinical signs associated with epiphora are dampness or wetness beneath the eyes, reddish-brown staining of the fur beneath the eyes, odor, skin irritation, and skin infection. Many owners report that their cat’s face is constantly damp, and they may even see tears rolling off their pet’s face.

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How To Stop A Cat From Scratching The Carpet

Your first option for preventing damage from scratching is to direct your cat’s behavior to an acceptable target. Kitty furniture such as scratching posts are designed for that exact purpose.

What do you do if your cat refuses to use the scratching post or sometimes chooses to ignore it in favor of your carpeting? The best solution is to provide scratching surfaces that are more desirable to your cat than your furnishings.

Add a horizontal scratching pad. Cats have their own individual scratching patterns and preferences. Those that scratch carpeting may be more inclined to scratch horizontally than use a vertical scratching post. Fortunately, there are scratching pads made for horizontal scratching some are wedge-shaped inclines and others are flattened out. Experiment to find one that your cat likes.

Cover up the spot where your cat scratches. If possible, move a piece of furniture to your cat’s favorite carpet spot. A sisal scratching post may be a good choice here. For scratching that takes place in front of an entryway, cover the area with a thin mat. Two-sided tape can act as a deterrent and eventually train your cat to avoid the area, especially on vertical surfaces.

When To See A Vet

If this is the first time your cat has watery eyes and the tearing is excessive, check in with your veterinarian to get it diagnosed. Other symptoms that require a vet visit include squinting or blinking, pawing or rubbing the eye, red or inflamed eyes, a cloudy eye, thick mucus, or a yellow- or green-colored discharge.

Your veterinarian will check your pets eyes for damage inside and out, measure the pressure inside the eye, and determine whether the flow of tears is normal. They will look for the underlying cause and work with you to relieve your cats discomfort.

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When To Take Your Cat To The Vet For An Eye Examination

If your cat’s eyes continue to water for more than a day or two, or if your cat is showing signs of pain or symptoms of infection, it’s time to head to the vet. Your vet will be able to examine your cat’s eyes and recommend appropriate treatments to help relieve any discomfort your cat may be experiencing.

Why Is My Cat Throwing Up

Your veterinarian will ask a variety of questions to determine why your cat is vomiting. These include:

• Have you switched your cats diet recently?

• Have you started any prescribed or over-the-counter medications?

• What diet, including all treats, is your cat on?

• Do you have other cats in the house, and if so, are they also vomiting?

• Is your cat indoor and/or outdoor?

• How often is your cat vomiting, and what does the vomit look like?

• Is your cat still eating?

• Is your cat having other symptoms, such as diarrhea and/or weight loss?

• How long has your cat been vomiting?

There are several possible causes of cat vomiting, and these questions will help guide your veterinarian in the right direction. Possible reasons why cats throw up can be broken into two categoriesgastrointestinal causes and non-gastrointestinal causes.

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How Do I Stop My Cat From Scratching The Furniture

If you have a cat that scratches the furniture or carpet, you are not alone. This is a common behaviour described by cat owners, which is both natural and innate. Even though the urge to scratch is normal, scratching inappropriate places is a destructive behaviour, but one which can be relatively easily managed.

Place The Scratching Post In A Location Where The Cat Wants To Scratch

If your cat enjoys scratching the couch, place the scratching post next to the couch. If your cat enjoys scratching the wall by your front door when you come home, place the scratching post near your front door. Location matters!

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Could Bladder Problems Cause Your Cat To Pull Out Fur

Though much less likely, pulling out fur in genital areas could indicate illness. Feline urinary tract infection is quite common and could in some cases cause over grooming. If you notice your cat constantly licking and biting in his or her genital area, take a look.

Bald or sparse patches of fur may indicate an infection. However, youd notice other signs as well such as frequent trips to the litter tray. If youve ruled out other possible causes it may be a good idea to see the vet. A course of antibiotics would soon clear up any infection.

Why Do Cats Destroy Toilet Paper

A toilet roll can provide a cat with hours of entertainment. Many cats steal toilet roll from the bathroom and contentedly play with it for some time.

Cats do not understand the human use of toilet paper. Felines eliminate in a litter tray and clean themselves by grooming. As a result, toilet paper serves no purpose. Housing toilet paper in the bathroom adds to the inscrutability. You often close the door to this room, restricting access.

Toilet paper amuses cats as it brings theirhunting instincts to life. Toilet roll will flutter and move, capturing a catsattention. The toilet roll will then unravel. Once this happens, the cat willnot hesitate to tear it to shreds.

In some cases, the cat will be acting defensively. If it does not understand the purpose of toilet roll, the cat will attack. Perfumed paper is likelier to gain this response. A bright white paper may also catch a cats eye.

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How Do I Trim My Cats Claws

To help keep them sharp, cats keep their claws retracted except when theyre needed. As the claws grow too long and become curved, they cant be retracted completely. You should clip off the sharp tips of your cats claws on all four feet every week or so. Clipping your cats claws will also help prevent them from becoming snagged in carpets, fabrics and skin.

Before trimming your cats claws, accustom her to having her paws handled and squeezed. You can do this by gently petting her legs and paws while giving her a treat. This will help to make it a more pleasant experience. Gradually increase the pressure so that petting becomes gentle squeezing, as youll need to do this to extend the claw. Continue with the treats until your cat tolerates this kind of touching and restraint. It may take a little longer if shes not used to having her legs or paws handled.

Apply a small amount of pressure to her paw, with your thumb on top of her paw and your index finger underneath, until a claw is extended. You should be able to see the pink or quick, which is a small blood vessel. Dont cut into this pink portion, as it will bleed and be painful for your cat. If you cut off just the sharp tip of the claw, the hook, it will dull the claw and prevent extensive damage to household objects and to your skin.

Also view how-to instructions provided by the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

How To Avoid Unexpected Vet Bills

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