Author: World Arabia

  • Dog Anxiety Medication: Trazodone

    Dog Anxiety Medication: Trazodone

    Key points: 

    • Trazodone is a serotonin antagonist/reuptake inhibitor (SARI) drug. It’s an antidepressant that vets usually prescribe to treat behavioral disorders in dogs associated with anxiety and phobias.
    • Trazodone is a safe dog anxiety medication, and most dogs don’t experience any adverse side effects. However, some pets may experience trazodone side effects such as dilated pupils, sedation, vomiting or gagging, loss of energy, and arrhythmia. 
    • The recommended dose depends on your dog’s weight and health and should be determined by your vet after considering all the underlying factors. If you give your dog too much trazodone, it might experience serotonin syndrome with the following symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, hyperthermia, skin sensitivity, dilation of pupils, blindness, difficulty breathing, loss of movement control, disorientation, paralysis, coma, and even death.
    • Trazodone is not recommended for pregnant dogs or those who suffer from liver or kidney disabilities or severe heart disease. Trazodone should not be given to dogs with angle-closure glaucoma. 
    • You should administer trazodone with caution if your dog takes MAO inhibitors, antihypertensive drugs, aspirin, azole antifungals, cisapride, CNS depressants, digoxin, diuretics, fluoroquinolones, macrolide antibiotics, metoclopramide, NSAIDs, ondansetron, phenothiazines, SSRI antidepressants, and tramadol.
    • The most efficient way to change your dog’s behavior is to combine a course of trazodone with a behavioral modification program.

    Have you noticed that your dog is acting anxious, fearful, and hostile? Dogs can become anxious for a number of reasons, whether it’s a vet visit, loud noises, change of environment, or being left alone, but what can you do if nothing seems to relieve the pet’s fear and eliminate its destructive behavior? When your goal is to alleviate your dog’s anxiety and improve its well-being, combining a behavioral modification training program with anti-anxiety medication is the best way to do so. The most common anti-anxiety drug that your vet may prescribe is trazodone.

    Trazodone is commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat dogs with anxiety and behavioral issues or keep pets calm during regular veterinary visits. The medication has sedative and anti-anxiety effects and can be prescribed along with other psychotropic medications. Trazodone was first used for humans as an off-label medication for insomnia and post-traumatic stress. Now, scientists have confirmed that trazodone is just as effective and safe for dogs. 

    But how exactly does trazodone work for dogs? Is it safe? Does it have any side effects? If these questions popped in your head when your vet mentioned this medicine, keep on reading and find out all the answers.

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  • Tramadol For Dogs: Usage, Doses, And Side Effects

    Tramadol For Dogs: Usage, Doses, And Side Effects

    Key points

    • Tramadol is an opioid drug that can be prescribed both to humans and dogs. It helps to relieve severe pain by altering the body’s perception of the sensation. 
    • Tramadol is safe for dogs, but only if you follow the instructions and give your pet the recommended dosage of the drug. The appropriate dose will depend on your dog’s weight and health history.
    • Tramadol’s side effects for dogs may include vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and dizziness. Tramadol overdose symptoms include disorientation, difficulty breathing, seizures, abnormally slow or fast heart rate, and tremors. 
    • Tramadol should not be given to pregnant, geriatric, or debilitated dogs and animals that suffer from kidney and liver conditions. 
    • You can give your dog tramadol in the form of tablets, capsules, or liquid. It’s better to mix the drug with food to hide its bitter taste.

    Most pet owners find it excruciating to see their pups suffer from pain. Tramadol is one of the most common pain drugs from humans, but it’s gaining more and more attention in the world of canine pain management. How does tramadol work for dogs? What are the side effects of using tramadol for dogs? Keep reading and discover all the information.

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  • Is Zucchini Safe For Dogs?

    Is Zucchini Safe For Dogs?

    Key points

    • Zucchinis are perfectly safe for dogs, and their consumption doesn’t cause any adverse effects. Also, almost all dogs tolerate this vegetable without experiencing allergic reactions.
    • Zucchini can enrich your dog’s diet with vitamins and minerals and provide a lot of health benefits, including improving the pet’s digestion and having an antioxidative effect on its cells. Zucchinis can also be beneficial for overweight dogs because they are low in calories and fat.
    • Don’t give your dog bitter zucchinis because these often contain cucurbitacins which are toxic to dogs. The symptoms of cucurbitacin poisoning in dogs include excessive salivation, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, and shock.
    • You can give your dog zucchinis in a raw or cooked state, tailoring the portion size to your dog’s weight. 

    Zucchinis are one of the essential products for a healthy human diet. This vegetable can provide numerous health benefits, such as lowering blood sugar levels and improving eyesight. Many pet owners can’t help but wonder whether zucchinis have the same benefits for dogs as they do for humans.

    Fun fact time: while most people are convinced that zucchini is a vegetable, it is actually a fruit! Because zucchini appears from a flower, it is technically a berry which is also known as courgette and belongs to the cucurbit family. While it has a high nutritional value, zucchini is a low-calorie product that can serve as a perfect snack both for you and your dog.

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  • My Cat’s Breath Stinks: What To Do?

    My Cat’s Breath Stinks: What To Do?

    Key Points

    • While occasional bad breath in cats is not a cause for concern, you need to take it to a vet if your pet has chronic halitosis, as this could be a symptom of several serious health conditions. 
    • Some causes of stinky breath in cats include gum disease, dental issues, diabetes, liver, kidney, and digestive tract problems, oral tumors, and more. 
    • The best way to treat your cat’s foul breath is to have the pet examined by a vet who can diagnose its condition and prescribe appropriate treatment. 
    • The best way to prevent bad breath in cats is to brush your feline’s teeth daily with a feline toothbrush and toothpaste. You can also give your cat dental chews to help clean its teeth and keep its breath fresh.

    Do you love petting your cat but hate having your nose be anywhere close to its head? If so, your pet may be suffering from serious health issues! According to Eric Davis, DVM, a fellow of the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry, a cat’s breath is not supposed to smell bad. So while it’s absolutely normal for cats to occasionally suffer from bad breath, if the issue occurs constantly, it’s time to visit a vet and figure out what’s causing it. And in the meantime, this article will explain the reasons for bad breath in cats and ways to treat the issue and prevent it from occurring in the future.

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  • The Ultimate Guide To Sweet Potatoes For Dogs

    The Ultimate Guide To Sweet Potatoes For Dogs

    Key Points

    • Sweet potatoes are generally safe for dogs to eat as long as they are given in moderation.
    • According to a recent FDA warning, dog foods that contain a significant amount of sweet potatoes can increase the risk of pets developing canine dilated cardiomyopathy. Sweet potatoes are also high in sugary starches, which can pose health risks for your pet. 
    • At the same time, this vegetable is high in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, making it a healthy treat or food supplement for your pet.
    • If you want to give your dog sweet potatoes, make sure to boil, mash, or bake them first. Never give raw, commercially processed, or fried potatoes to dogs.

    Many dog owners love sharing their food with their pets, and dogs love eating bits and pieces of their owners’ meals. But while most of us are well aware that some products such as chocolate, onions, garlic, etc., are extremely dangerous to dogs, the situation may not be so simple and clear-cut with other human foods. This article will explain everything you need to know about the benefits and dangers of giving sweet potatoes to your dog. 

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  • Is It Normal For a Dog To Keep Chewing Its Tail? 

    Is It Normal For a Dog To Keep Chewing Its Tail? 

    Key points

    • A dog may begin chasing, licking, and chewing its tail because it is bored, stressed, or anxious, because it’s suffering from a parasite infestation, issues with its anal glands, tailbone trauma, and other conditions. 
    • If your pet’s tail biting behavior has become excessive, it’s best to consult a vet to get an accurate diagnosis. 
    • You might need to use topical or oral medicine to address the issue, change your pet’s food to address its allergies, adjust its behavior, and provide the pet with plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent it from biting its tail in the future.

    As a dog owner, you can probably name countless hilarious things that your pet does. And one of those probably has to do with the dog chasing its tail. However, sometimes it might seem like it’s no longer just a fun trick or game your pet is playing. If you notice that your dog is chasing or biting its tail excessively, it’s essential to carefully observe your dog to determine the reason for this behavior. Once you know what’s causing the issue, you will be able to choose the right treatment that will prevent your pet from biting its tail. 

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  • Home remedy for spider bites on dogs

    Home remedy for spider bites on dogs

    Key points

    • Generally, spider bites are not dangerous for dogs. However, if a poisonous spider bites your pet, it can result in significant health issues for your pet;
    • Spiders that can produce a significant amount of venom are black widow, brown widow, brown recluse spiders, and tarantulas;
    • If your dog experiences drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, pale gum color, or cramping after a spider has bitten it, call the veterinarian immediately;
    • If a non-poisonous spider has bitten your pet, you can use effective home remedies to treat the injury. Some of the most effective remedies include salt or baking soda mixture, turmeric powder, and potato poultice.

    Just like humans, dogs can be bitten by different types of insects, including spiders. Dogs are susceptible to spider bites on body parts that are not completely covered by hair. Do you suspect your pet has been bitten by a spider? If so, don’t panic – life-threatening spider bites are very rare.

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  • The Ultimate Guide To Grooming A Border Collie

    The Ultimate Guide To Grooming A Border Collie

    Key points

    • Border Collies can be either rough-coated (meaning they have medium-length hair) or smooth coated with short fur on all parts of the body. Both types are double-coated.
    • Border Collies are classified as a moderate shedding breed and have very basic grooming needs. Owners need to brush them two or three times per week and bathe them once every three months or so. Trimming the dogs’ nails is important too.
    • Shaving Border Collies is not recommended, as it can disrupt their body temperature regulation and expose the dog to sunburns and insect bites.
    • A healthy diet and anti-shed shampoos can help to keep the shedding under control.

    Collies are known for being intelligent, friendly, energetic, and extremely loyal. They are one of the most popular dog breeds due to their ability to make excellent life companions. So if you recently became a Collie owner, you may wonder whether your dog will shed a lot, how to look after its coat and what the pet’s grooming routine should look like. Collies indeed have some specific grooming needs, but they are generally not hard to look after. But although these dogs are low maintenance, there are a few things you need to know to help your dog look its best and stay healthy.

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  • Home Remedies For Dog Eye Infection

    Home Remedies For Dog Eye Infection

    Key points

    • Eye discharge occurs naturally in all dogs and helps their eyes to stay clean. Normal eye discharge should be clear, and its amount shouldn’t be excessive.
    • Allergies and irritation are the most common causes of excessive eye discharge in dogs. Other causes include viruses, eye infections, cherry eye, or blocked tear ducts.
    • To prevent excessive eye discharge in dogs, try to keep irritants (such as dust) from getting into your dog’s eyes.
    • To get rid of the dog’s eye discharge at home, clean its eyes regularly, watch the pet’s diet, enrich it with fresh products, and use some herbs such as astaxanthin and marigold. 

    Just like humans, dogs can sometimes wake up with eye discharge, which is completely natural. In most cases, the discharge is healthy, and simple home remedies can help you get rid of it. Still, sometimes, excessive eye discharge can signify that your pet is suffering from potentially dangerous conditions. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about canine eye discharge and give you a list of effective home remedies that can be used to treat the pet.

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  • Blood In Cat Vomit – Is It Normal? 

    Blood In Cat Vomit – Is It Normal? 

    Key points

    • Hematemesis is a condition when an animal vomits with blood. It can be extremely dangerous, therefore, you should seek veterinary attention immediately.
    • A cat may experience bloody vomiting due to dental diseases, injuries, parasites, poisoning, or genetic predisposition to certain health issues.
    • Hematemesis treatment will typically address the underlying issue of the pet’s condition and provide additional supportive care. The treatment is based directly on the cause of bloody vomiting.

    Vomiting hairballs is completely natural for cats. Having blood in the vomit, on the other hand, is not. It can indicate a number of dangerous health conditions, so if you see blood in your cat’s vomit, you need to book an appointment with your veterinarian immediately. In the meantime, you can read this article to find out key things you should know about bloody vomiting in cats. 

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