Cats may be predators, but that doesn’t mean they’re at the top of the food chain. They can be hunted by larger animals, like coyotes or hawks. For this reason, cats instinctively hide their pain—they don’t want to appear weak when they are vulnerable, because it might attract larger predators.

Some signs of illness in cats are more obvious, like vomiting and diarrhea. Others are more subtle, like the changes in behavior we’ll review below. Here’s how to tell if your cat is sick.

Is Your Cat Doing One of These Five Things?

• Hiding All the Time
• Not Eating as Much
• Meowing in the Litterbox
• Coughing or Hacking
• Wobbling When Walking

All five of these behaviors are good reasons to take your cat to the vet! It might be something minor, like the new laundry detergent you’re using, or something more serious, like a tooth infection. Let’s go over each of these symptoms in more detail.

Five Signs of Illness in Cats

1: Hiding All the Time

All cats like to hide. Hiding makes them feel safe, and allows them to get a good deep sleep once in a while instead of just a “catnap.” However, constant hiding may be a sign that something is wrong. They may be hiding out of anxiety—like after a move to a new home, adopting another pet, or a disruption to their normal schedule. 

Hiding can also be a sign of illness—when cats are sick and want to feel safe, they’ll retreat to their favorite hiding place to rest. If your cat has been “missing” for more than a day, you should take them to the vet for an examination.

2: Not Eating as Much

Sometimes cats will refuse to eat if you serve them a new type of food or a brand they don’t like. But most of the time, loss of appetite is a big red flag telling you that your cat is sick. 

They may be in pain from a tooth abscess, or feeling nauseous because of an infection. It could be a sign of anxiety, or a symptom of chronic disease. If your cat is refusing to eat, and you haven’t made any changes to their diet, bring them to the vet right away. 

3: Meowing in the Litterbox

If your cat is vocalizing when they use the litterbox, there’s a reason for it. Perhaps they’re trying to get your attention by ever-so-subtly hinting that you need to change the litter. However, if they’re meowing every time they go, you should take your cat to the vet. 

Meowing in the litterbox could indicate a painful urinary tract infection or—even worse—a bowel obstruction. If your cat swallowed a string or a small object, it could be blocking their intestines and causing internal bleeding. Bowel obstructions can quickly turn deadly, and your cat will need urgent care.

4: Coughing or Hacking

You know that hacking couch that indicates a hairball is on the way? If your cat is coughing and coughing but not producing a hairball, they might be sick. They could have asthma, a respiratory infection, or a number of other health problems. They could also be reacting to the fumes from cleaning products or air fresheners. 

Sometimes, a coughing spell just means your cat is having trouble ejecting a hairball. But if your cat keeps coughing, and no hairballs come up, take them to see a vet.

5: Wobbling When Walking

If your cat seems a little unsteady on their feet, or they’re too weak to jump, they may be seriously ill. Ataxia (lack of coordination) and weakness can be symptoms of many illnessess. It could indicate anything from an ear infection to a brain tumor to a spinal injury. It could also be a reaction to ingesting something toxic, like pollen from a bouquet of lilies.

A sudden lack of coordination is definitely cause for concern. If your cat can’t walk straight or seems too weak to move, get them to the vet right away.

Veterinary Care for Cats in Gilbert

If you’re looking for the best veterinarians for cats in Gilbert, Arizona, you found us! Nobody else will give your cat the same loving attention and dedicated care as Anasazi Animal Clinic. If you’re concerned about a recent change in your cat’s behavior, give us a call to make an appointment. Whether the problem is large or small, we can give your cat the care they need. 

Photo by Ladislav Stercell on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 3/17/25.

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Many ordinary cleaning products—like ammonia, bleach, and isopropyl alcohol—can be harmful to pets. And even some very familiar household brands contain toxic ingredients like formaldehyde, phthalates, phenols, and perchloroethylene. Homemade cleaning products are not always safe for pets, either. 

Here’s how to choose safe, pet-friendly cleaning products for your home.

What Types of Cleaning Products Are Dangerous for Pets?

Many types of cleaning products—in fact, probably most of them—can be irritating and even toxic to pets. Ordinary things like bleach and carpet cleaner that people use without thinking twice can actually be very harmful. So whether you’re cleaning your house or cleaning up after your pet, it’s important to be careful about the products you use.

For example, you should never use bleach to clean your dog’s dishes or your cat’s litter box. Bleach residue can cause skin irritation and gastrointestinal upset. 

Many common floor and window cleaning solutions contain ammonia, which can irritate your pet’s eyes, skin, and throat. They don’t have to swallow it—the fumes alone are enough to cause respiratory distress.

And always read the ingredients before you use any upholstery cleaner or rug cleaner—these products often contain substances like perchloroethylene or tetrachloroethylene that can cause cancer as well as liver damage. 

How to Find Pet-Friendly Cleaning Products:

• Look for “free and clear” products that don’t have any scents or dyes.
• Check the packaging for labels like “Safer Choice” or “Pet Safe.”
• Read the ingredients list just to make sure there’s nothing dangerous.

How to Make Pet-Safe Homemade Cleaners

If you’re having trouble finding pet-safe cleaning products or you’re looking for a more natural option, you can always try making your own. Baking soda and distilled white vinegar are two of the best natural, pet-friendly cleaning agents, and they’re easy to find.

A simple baking soda paste makes a great carpet cleaner, and it deodorizes, too! It’s also a much safer option for scrubbing your stove, as oven cleaners often have toxic ingredients. You can use a vinegar solution to sanitize floors, surfaces, and pet dishes. You can also use it to clean windows and mirrors for a streak-free shine that won’t irritate curious noses. 

If you’re making a vinegar cleaner and you want to mask the smell of the vinegar, use lemon juice instead of lemon essential oil. Many types of essential oils are toxic to pets, and inhaling or ingesting them can make your pet sick.

Castile soap is another versatile option. This olive-oil based cleanser is all-natural, non-toxic, biodegradable, and—most importantly—it’s also safe for pets. You can use diluted Castile soap as a floor and surface cleaner, as a laundry detergent, and even as hand soap. 

Friendly Veterinarians in Gilbert, Arizona

When it comes to finding pet-friendly cleaning products, you have to be very careful. If you have any concerns about which products are safe, ask us at your next appointment. The friendly vets at Anasazi Animal Clinic are always happy to answer your pet care questions. Contact us to schedule an exam today.

Photo by Josue Michel on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 3/11/25.

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Ten Things Every Indoor Cat Needs

1: Interactive Play

Cats are hard-wired hunters, and even indoor cats need to engage in hunting behaviors like stalking, pouncing, and biting. When your kitty pounces your ankles, it’s because they want to play. Cats love to test their athletic skills on unpredictable targets, so when you wriggle a toy erratically, or toss it in a random direction, your cat gets excited about the new challenge. Plus, interactive play helps you build a closer bond.

2: Entertainment 

Cats are pretty good at finding their own entertainment. Whether it’s batting a piece of trash around the house, bird-watching, or testing out cardboard boxes, cats can usually find the mental stimulation they need to keep from getting bored. However, if your cat is acting out by destroying your furniture or chomping on your houseplants, they might need more stimulation and time spent playing. Try adding some new toys into their rotation and get a plant just for your cat, like wheatgrass, to help prevent boredom.

3: Comfortable Beds

Even if their favorite place to sleep is on your bed, every cat needs a comfortable bed of their own. When they’re young, they’ll sleep most anywhere—on a pile of freshly folded laundry, on your bath mat, or curled up on a couch pillow. But when cats get older, it’s not so easy for them to jump up onto your bed or the couch. Make sure your cat has a clean, safe, comfortable place to sleep that’s also easy for them to access. 

4: A Place to Perch

Every cat needs a place to perch up high, for several reasons. Cats feel safe when they’re up where no one can reach them. A high perch also gives them an opportunity to survey their territory and keep an eye on the activity of the household. If there are other pets around, a high perch will let cats assert their dominance, or simply take a nap undisturbed. Add a weight-bearing shelf or a cat-tree. 

5: Somewhere to Scratch

Cats use scratching to keep their claws healthy, to express excitement, and to mark their territory with the scent glands in their paws. They’re not usually trying to be destructive when they sink their claws into the back of the couch—it’s a normal, instinctual behavior. However, sometimes cats do get destructive when they’re feeling stressed out. It’s their way of letting you know they need attention.

6: Grooming 

Although they’re known to be meticulous self-groomers, combing and brushing is good for your cat’s health and happiness. When cats form a bond they groom each other, so when you brush your cat’s fur, you’re demonstrating how much you love them. Plus, the more loose fur you can collect on a brush or comb means the less fur your cat might end up swallowing. To help prevent hairballs, regular grooming is a must.

7: A Nutritious Diet

Whether it’s wet food or dry, your cat’s food should be high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Most commercial cat foods are formulated to provide the high-protein, high-fat diets cats need. As long as you’re feeding your cat the right amount of food, and making sure they get enough exercise, they should be able to maintain a healthy weight.

8: Daily Exercise

Even if it seems like they spend most of the day sleeping, cats do need exercise. Daily exercise keeps their joints and muscles healthy, and helps prevent obesity. It also provides some of the entertainment and interactive play that cats need to satisfy their hunting instincts. 

9: A Clean Litter Box

Try to get into the habit of scooping your cat’s litter box every day—this will make your cat both happier and healthier. Cats like to be clean, and none of them want to have to step on clumps of their own waste. Litter boxes can also harbor parasites, bacteria, and viruses if they don’t get cleaned. Daily scooping will help prevent urinary tract infections and keep germs from getting tracked around your house. 

10: Veterinary Care

Every cat needs a yearly checkup to make sure they’re in good health and up to date on all their vaccinations. Cats also need yearly dental exams to check for signs of gum disease and tooth decay. A healthy cat is a happy cat, so it’s important to keep up with your pet’s veterinary care. 

Dedicated Cat Care in Gilbert, Arizona

Anasazi Animal Clinic is a full-service veterinary center, and we’re here to provide the care your cat needs to be happy and healthy. Whether it’s a dental checkup, vaccinations, or a special diet, we can help. Give us a call at 480-497-0505 or send us a message to schedule an appointment today. 

Photo by Michael Sum on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 6/16/2024.

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The only way to prevent parvovirus is with a full round of vaccinations. Although there is treatment available for infected puppies, chances of survival are still very low. Let’s go over how to prevent parvo exposure so you can keep your puppy safe. 

Puppies and Parvovirus: Risks, Prevention, and Treatment

Dogs infected with parvovirus suffer from severe vomiting and diarrhea that lead to dehydration, septic shock, and sometimes even death. First, the virus targets the white blood cells and weakens the immune system. Next, it attacks the lining of the small intestine, and inhibits the ability to absorb nutrients and fluids. In puppies, the virus is even more deadly, because it can infect their hearts. 

How Do Puppies Get Parvo?

Because this disease is so highly contagious, it can be transmitted very easily. It can spread through direct contact with an infected dog, their feces, or any contaminated surface. Puppies can get parvo by drinking from the same water dish as an infected dog, or from stepping on contaminated grass. 

Any dogs that show symptoms of parvovirus should be quarantined away from other dogs. Your veterinarian will probably ask for a stool sample to confirm a parvo diagnosis. Early signs of parvovirus include lethargy, loss of appetite, and fever. Symptoms will then progress to severe vomiting and bloody diarrhea. If your puppy has vomiting and diarrhea, it might not be parvo, but you should still contact your vet right away.

Parvovirus Can Be Prevented with Puppy Vaccinations

The parvovirus vaccine is included in the DAPP vaccine group. Your puppy can get their first dose at around 6-8 weeks old, and then they’ll need two more doses over the next 4-8 weeks. After the third does, it should be safe for them to encounter other dogs. But they’ll need a booster dose one year later, and every three years after that.

What Is the Treatment for Parvovirus?

The treatment for parvovirus will depend on the severity of the infection. Your puppy might have to stay in the animal hospital for a few days. If they have had severe vomiting and diarrhea, they may need an IV to replenish lost nutrients and fluids. 

Other treatments like blood transfusions, medications to control nausea and pain, and antibiotics to fight off infections may also be necessary. The earlier you seek treatment, the better—early intervention will increase your puppy’s chances of survival.

How to Keep Your Puppy Safe

• Make sure your puppy gets all their vaccinations on time.
• Wait until your puppy has been fully vaccinated before bringing them to dog parks, pet stores, kennels, doggy daycare, obedience classes, or anywhere they might encounter other dogs.
• Practice potty training and leash training at home at first, so they won’t get exposed to contagious diseases.
• Never let your puppy drink from another dog’s dish or eat from another dog’s bowl. Bring your own water bowl from home when walking, hiking, and exploring with your dog—a collapsible one is convenient and easy to carry or clip onto a backpack.

Puppy Vaccinations in Gilbert, Arizona

At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we’re passionate about preventing the spread of deadly diseases like parvovirus. Vaccinating your pet is the best way to keep them healthy and make sure they live a long, happy life. 

No matter what happens, we’re here for you. Whether you need to start your puppy on their first round of vaccinations, or you’re worried that they might have been exposed to parvo before their vaccinations are complete, we can help. Contact us to schedule an appointment or give us a call if your puppy needs urgent care.

Photo by Joel J. Martínez on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 6/13/2024.

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Does Your Cat Have Arthritis?

Causes of Arthritis in Cats

Arthritis is a degenerative condition that affects the joints. It can cause pain, inflammation, and decreased mobility in cats. Arthritis is often caused by wear and tear on the joints due to aging. However, arthritis in cats can also be caused by other factors, such as injury or infection. Feline obesity also increases the risk of arthritis, because the extra pounds put added pressure on the joints. 

Seven Signs of Arthritis in Cats

The symptoms of arthritis in cats are often subtle, and may be difficult to spot. Cats also tend to hide their pain, so you must keep a close eye on your pet in order to recognize changes in their health and behavior. 

If your cat shows any of the following symptoms of arthritis, contact your vet for an exam:

1. Stiffness—It’s common for arthritic cats to be stiff whenever they get up or walk because of joint pain. 
2. Difficulty Walking—If your cat has trouble walking or using stairs, it may be due to joint pain caused by arthritis. Limping is rare, but can also be a symptom. 
3. Reduced Activity—It’s normal for senior cats to have less energy as they age. But arthritis can also make your cat less active, so it’s still a good idea to contact your vet if your cat starts napping more and playing less.
4. Poor Grooming Habits—Due to pain from arthritis, cats may have a harder time grooming, leading to dull or matted fur.
5. Difficulty Jumping—Arthritis can make it difficult for your cat to jump up onto their favorite high surfaces, such as cat towers, window ledges, and countertops. This test 
6. Litter Box Issues—Arthritic cats can have trouble getting into or out of their litter boxes, leading to accidents outside the box. 
7. Changes in Personality—Cats with arthritis may become more irritable or aggressive because of their pain and discomfort. They may be especially reactive when you touch the joint areas. 

How to Help Your Arthritic Cat

Many of the signs of arthritis are also symptoms of other cat diseases, so it’s crucial that you see your vet to get a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. 

If your cat does have arthritis, treatments can include pain medications (including Solensia, a recently approved osteoarthritis pain medication for cats), joint supplements, and weight management. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help manage your cat’s pain and improve their mobility. 

In addition to veterinary care, there are also several things you can do at home to help your arthritic cat. Be sure to: 

• Provide soft bedding in warm areas and in their usual napping spots to help your pet stay comfortable.
• Get some raised food and water bowls so your cat can eat and drink without neck pain. 
• Use ramps, stools, and chairs to help them reach their favorite perches more easily. 
• Provide large, low-sided litter boxes or step stools to help your cat use the box without trouble. 
• Brush your cat regularly to help maintain their coat, especially if they are unable to do so themselves.

Cat Arthritis Treatment in Gilbert, Arizona

Please don’t hesitate to contact Anasazi Animal Clinic if you suspect your cat is experiencing joint pain. We’ll examine your pet and come up with a comprehensive treatment plan to help manage their pain. We’ll also recommend the best ways to keep your cat comfortable at home. Call our clinic at 480-497-0505 today to schedule an appointment. 

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (5/3/2023). Photo by Nathan Fertig on Unsplash

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For small emergencies, we highly suggest that if you have pets you keep a basic first aid kit on hand. Just like the first aid kit you have for yourself, a pet first aid kit provides basic medical supplies to help pets stay comfortable until you can get them to a veterinarian.  

What to Put in a Pet First Aid Kit

To get you started, we made a list of ten priority items to place in your pet first aid kit. After you assemble a basic kit, add any other supplies you feel are helpful, depending on how many pets you have and on their individual needs. Then keep the kit in a safe place where you can reach it quickly, and bring it with you whenever you travel with your pets.

1: Emergency Information

Keep a card inside your pet first aid kit listing: 

• The names and ages of your animals, as well as any known medical issues and their last vaccinations
• Your veterinarian’s name and phone number
• The Animal Poison Control Center phone number 
• Contact information for 24-hour emergency veterinarians where you live and any places you frequently travel to

We also suggest making copies of this card to give to your pet sitter or boarding facility, and also keeping one in your wallet in case your kit becomes lost or damaged. 

2: Current Medications

If your pet is on any medications, keep a small quantity in the first aid kit. They might come in handy if you are traveling and your pet’s medicine gets lost or stolen. To make sure a prescription never runs out unexpectedly, sign up for auto shipping from our online pharmacy.

3: Pet Bandage Wraps

Keep a roll of bandages specially designed for pets. Use them to bandage a wound until you can get to a veterinarian. You can buy them online or at your favorite pet store.

4: Gauze and Cotton Balls

These two items are staples for any pet first aid kit. Gauze helps to stop bleeding and can act as an impromptu bandage if needed. Cotton balls can be used to assist with cleaning wounds or for applying pressure to stop bleeding.  

5: Blunt-Tipped Scissors

You will need to be able to cut gauze and pet bandages to size, so keep a pair of blunt-tipped scissors in your kit. Because they do not have sharp points, they are a safer option for storage and for use around pets. 

6: Antibiotic Wipes and Disposable Gloves

If your pet gets wounded, using antibiotic wipes before placing a bandage helps lower the risk of infection. You can also use antibiotic wipes to clean your hands before treating a wound. And for even more protection against germs, keep a pair of disposable gloves in your pet first aid kit so that you won’t transfer any bacteria from your hands to the wound. 

7: Water

Always keep a bottle of drinking water in your pet’s first aid kit for emergency hydration. You can also use it to clean wounds, flush toxins from your pet’s fur or skin, or cool them down if they become overheated. 

8: Muzzle, Leash, and/or Carrier

Just in case your dog loses or breaks a leash, it’s good to keep an extra one in the kit. You should also keep a muzzle in your kit to ensure your dog does not accidentally bite you if you need to administer first aid. Also, consider having a small carrier handy for cats in case of an emergency.

9: Blanket

A small blanket provides a bit of comfort and a soft place for your pet to lie down if you need to administer first aid. Additionally, it acts as a temporary restraint for cats and small dogs if needed. 

10: Waterproof Case

Keep all your first aid supplies in a case that is brightly colored and waterproof. This makes it easier to quickly find your kit when you need it, makes it more convenient to bring with you wherever you go, and keeps the supplies inside safe from spills and leaks. 

First Aid for Pets in Gilbert, Arizona

April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, so it’s a great time to put together a basic pet first aid kit. We also suggest setting a calendar reminder to restock your first aid kit every six months, to make sure you always have supplies at the ready in case of an emergency. If you ever do have a veterinary emergency, call Anasazi Animal Clinic at 480-497-0505 and bring your pet in for an urgent examination.    

Photo by Roger Brown on Pexels.com

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Can cats have seasonal allergies?  

Just like humans, cats can also be allergic to pollen from trees and flowers, as well as grasses and dust. Both indoor and outdoor cats can suffer from spring allergies, but outdoor cats have a higher likelihood of allergies because they spend more time outside and encounter more allergens. 

Symptoms of cat spring allergies are very similar to those in humans, and can include: 

• Sneezing and/or runny nose
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Red and/or watery eyes
• Itchy or irritated skin 
• Excessive scratching
• Hair loss or bald patches
• Redness on the belly, paws, or inside the ears

How do you treat seasonal allergies in cats? 

Symptoms caused by cat seasonal allergies can be very uncomfortable. If your cat’s skin becomes very irritated and itchy, they may overgroom and scratch too much. This can cause them to tear out their hair and even break their skin, which makes them vulnerable to infections. 

If your veterinarian diagnoses your cat with spring allergies, they can prescribe allergy medications to help lessen the symptoms. Human allergy medications are not for pets and should not be administered to your cat or dog. They can also offer treatment for wounds from skin irritations. There are also several things you can do at home to provide relief to a cat experiencing spring allergies. 

How to Relieve Cat Spring Allergies at Home

1: Keep Allergens out of Your Home

If your indoor cat is experiencing spring allergies, a great way to help them is by removing allergens from your home. Whenever you come inside, remove your shoes and jacket as soon as you come in the door, because they can pick up pollen when you’re outside. Vacuum frequently to remove allergens that may get stuck in carpeting. And if you have not changed your air conditioning filter recently, give that a shot as well.  

2: Clean Pet Beds, Cat Trees, and Toys

Allergens love to stick to fabrics. Make sure to wash your cat’s favorite pet bed or blanket frequently, as well as any fabric toys they may have. And use your vacuum hose attachment to remove any trapped allergens from scratching posts and cat trees. 

3: Try a Bath

A soothing bath can help remove allergens like pollen from a cat’s skin and fur. It can also help moisturize their skin, calming itchiness and tenderness. If you don’t believe your cat will hold still for a bath using water, try a bath wipe made especially for cleaning cats. 

4: Switch to Dust-Free Litter

Most cat litters kick up a lot of dust when you pour fresh litter into the litter box or when your cat is scratching around. Cats who are susceptible to seasonal allergies may also have a hard time tolerating dust. If possible, we recommend switching to a dust-free or low-dust litter to help relieve irritation. 

Treating Cat Spring Allergies in Chandler, Arizona

Cat seasonal allergies are a very common reason people bring their felines to Anasazi Animal Clinic during the spring. While allergy symptoms can be unpleasant, the good news is that relief is possible. Not only can veterinarians provide help through medications, they can also offer tips on how to make your home more comfortable for your kitty during the spring months. 

If your favorite feline is showing symptoms of cat spring allergies, call us today at 480-497-0505 to bring them in for a thorough examination.   

Photo by Ludemeula Fernandes on Unsplash

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How often does my cat or dog need their teeth cleaned? 

We recommend most dogs and cats come in once a year for a dental cleaning, starting around age two or three. However, there are some instances where a dog or cat may need to come in earlier or more frequently. 

Older Animals

Just like humans, animals they tend to develop more health issues as they age. In regards to oral health, older dogs and cats are more susceptible to tooth decay and more prone to tooth loss. For this reason, we suggest more frequent teeth cleanings for older pets.

Certain Dog Breeds

Some dog breeds require more dental care. Small breeds like chihuahuas have much smaller mouths, which can cause overcrowding of teeth. And dog breeds with “pushed in” faces like bulldogs and pugs may have malformed or crooked teeth, making them prone to dental issues. 

What happens during a dental cleaning? 

Before we start a dog or cat teeth cleaning procedure, we administer a general anesthetic. This allows your pet to stay comfortable during the cleaning, and prevents any accidental injuries to your pet or to the veterinarian. 

Just like your dentist does at your teeth cleanings, a veterinary dentist uses special tools to remove plaque build-up from teeth and gums. They will also polish your pet’s teeth to a nice healthy shine! 

During the dental cleaning, the veterinarian also looks for signs of any dental disease in your pet’s mouth, such as:

• Swollen and/or bleeding gums 
• Cracked, loose, or missing teeth
• Cavities
• Extremely bad breath

The veterinary dentist and their staff take x-rays of your pet’s mouth so they can check for any issues below the gums. And, if the veterinarian finds any teeth that need extraction, they will discuss your options with you. 

Cat and Dog Teeth Cleaning in Gilbert, Arizona

Annual dental cleanings are the best way to make sure your pet’s mouth stays healthy and clean. Healthy teeth and gums help your pets eat well, keeps them free from dental pain, and ensures that they live their best lives. If it’s time to schedule a cat or dog teeth cleaning for your pet, call Anasazi Animal Clinic today at 480-497-0505.   

Photo by Cierra Voelkl on Unsplash

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What are the first signs of pregnancy in a dog?

Dogs carry their puppies for a term of about 63 days. Like humans, a dog’s pregnancy includes three trimesters. However, with dogs, the trimesters only last 21 days each. On average, a dog usually carries between six to eight puppies at a time. 

Pregnant dogs may not show a lot of signs within the first few weeks. A few things to look for include: 

• Morning sickness vomiting
• Change or lack of appetite
• Slight weight gain
• Lack of energy
• Behavioral changes, such as a social dog wanting to be left alone or a shy dog who craves more attention

If you suspect your dog is pregnant, your best bet is to take her to a veterinarian for a full check-up. At the clinic, a veterinarian can confirm pregnancy through blood tests and an ultrasound. 

As the puppies grow, your dog may experience some other changes as well, including: 

• Enlarged belly
• Additional weight gain
• Increased appetite 
• Discolored and/or enlarged nipples
• Vaginal discharge
• “Nesting” behaviors such as shredding blankets and other fabrics to create a nest for her puppies. 

How do you take care of a pregnant dog?

Proper care for a pregnant dog means monitoring their diet and exercise. Knowing what to feed them and how much activity is healthy will help you care for your dog when she is pregnant. Here are some of our top care tips for dogs who are expecting. 

Increase Calories

A pregnant dog is eating for more than one! We recommend switching to a food with higher calories, fat, and nutrients to help keep your dog healthy and energized during pregnancy. If you ask us for suggestions, we can make a recommendation based on your dog’s specific needs. After the puppies come into the world, the new mom should continue with the same nutrient-rich diet while nursing. 

Keep Her Active

Although pregnant dogs may have lower energy, keeping them moving is still very important. Gentle exercise like short walks helps the mom-to-be’s body stay limber and strong. Try to avoid overstimulation and energetic activities after four weeks into the pregnancy. 

Be Careful about Flea Treatments and Vaccinations

Whenever possible, a dog should get all their vaccinations before becoming pregnant. We do not recommend that pregnant dogs receive vaccinations. And, while some flea treatments are usually okay for expecting dogs, always consult your veterinarian before using them. 

Pregnant Dog Care in Gilbert, Arizona

Helping your dog bring a litter of puppies into the world is a joyful, wondrous experience. Between the magic of nature and the cuteness overload, it’s something you will never forget. Your veterinarian plays a crucial role in managing your dog’s pregnancy and ensuring both mom and pups stay healthy. If you believe your dog might be pregnant, call Anasazi Animal Clinic at 480-497-0505.   

Photo by Andrew Kota from Pexels

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Twelve Pet Health Resolutions for 2022

1: Exercise More

One of our favorite new year’s resolutions for dog owners is to plan to get outside for more exercise in 2022. Obesity is a major health problem for dogs, and spending more time on walks and playing fetch in the park can certainly help keep a dog’s weight at a healthy level. And, getting more activity is a health benefit for humans, too! 

2: Eat Better

While eating better often tops many people’s resolution lists, it should be on your pet resolutions list as well! Both cats and dogs can benefit from a healthy diet appropriate for their age and breed. Your veterinarian can guide you on choosing the most nutritious food for your pet. Try to keep treats to a minimum this year and set a goal of making healthy treats at home. 

3: Drink More Water

Water is very important for the overall health of dogs and cats. Always make sure your pets have regular access to fresh, clean water. Cats might drink more if they have more than one water bowl, or, if you find your cat is not drinking enough, consider upgrading to a water fountain in 2022.  

4  Focus on Oral Health

Dental health isn’t just for humans—a healthy mouth also leads to better overall health for dogs and cats. Broken teeth, cavities, and gum disease can cause your pets significant pain. All pets should get an annual dental exam to make sure their teeth and gums are in tip-top shape. We also highly recommend brushing your pet’s teeth daily. 

5: Clean Toys and Bedding

Did you know that almost all dog and cat toys can be cleaned in the washing machine? The new year is a great time to go through your pet’s toy chest and give each toy a thorough cleaning. If you have too many toys, you can donate them to a local pet shelter. Don’t forget to clean any pet beds or blankets while you’re at it! 

6: Get Grooming

One of our favorite new year’s resolutions for cats is to come up with a weekly grooming schedule. Give your cat a “spa day” for nail trimming, brushing, and extra pampering. Dogs and long-haired cats can both benefit from regular baths and brushings.

7: Spend More Quality Time

Make more plans for one-on-one time with your pets. Whether your plan is for extra cuddling while watching TV or reading a book, playing together with their favorite toys, or taking them out more places, that extra time together will help you build a stronger relationship. 

8: Try Something New

Have you ever considered running a 5K with your dog? Do you think your cat would be a great therapy animal at a local children’s hospital? A new year means new possibilities and new experiences that can further enhance your bond. 

9: Update Your Pet’s IDs

Have you moved or changed your phone number recently? You’ll need to update the information stored in your pet’s microchip and get a new ID tag made for their collar. Simple things like changing contact details often get overlooked when making a big move. 

10: Help Pets in Need

Put your experience with pets to good use by volunteering at a local animal shelter or rescue. These organizations are always looking for volunteers who love working with cats and dogs who are waiting for their new homes. Do a quick search for local volunteer opportunities, or visit VolunteerMatch.org to find a way to give back to your community. 

11: Consider Pet Insurance

As pets age, their health needs may increase, which can take a financial toll. Before that becomes a problem, consider purchasing pet insurance coverage. We recommend Nationwide Pet Insurance to our clients.  

12: Visit Your Veterinarian Annually

Now is a great time to schedule your pet’s 2022 annual vet visit. Even if your dog or cat seems to be in tip-top shape, an annual exam allows your veterinarian to check for signs of any potential health issues and catch them in their early stages. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your pets up-to-date on their vaccinations. 

A Happy New Year for Cats and Dogs

We want to help make 2022 the best—and healthiest—year yet for you and your pet! We hope our list of pet resolutions will help inspire you to make some small changes that will have some big results. To make your pet’s 2022 annual exam appointment, contact us today. 

Photo courtesy markito on Pixabay

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