How to Make Your Veterinary Visit Easier For You (And Your Pet)

Veterinary checkups are an important part of preventative healthcare.  They give us the opportunity to catch health problems early on, and ensure that your pet is living the healthiest life that it can. 

However, we know that your pets don't always want to make the trip to visit us.  The change in scenery can sometimes be overwhelming.  These tips will help make your next veterinary visit go smoothly!

Tips for a Smooth Vet Visit:

• Make Traveling Comfortable - Let your pet feel comfortable in their travel carrier.  Leave your carrier in your home and let your pet explore the area and feel comfortable inside of it. When you do travel in the car, your pet will know that it's in a space place.
• Bring Medical Records - If you haven't visited our office before, bring your medical records with you.  You can also have your previous vet send or fax the records over to our office.
• Know Medications Your Pet Needs- If your pet is taking any medications or supplements, know how often they take them and how much.  This will help ensure that your pet receives proper, consistent treatment moving forward.
• Ask Plenty of Questions - Don't be afraid to ask questions!  We're here to answer any questions that you have about your pet's health needs.  While you're int he office, get all of your questions out of the way -- no matter how strange you think they are.

Reunion Veterinary Hospital is designed with your cat's needs in mind.  Our cat-friendly veterinary hospital provides your cat with a relaxing and comfortable place for their health care needs.  

Contact us to schedule your next visit!

Why Does My Cat Meow?

Happy #Caturday! 

Have you ever wondered why cats meow?  

There are several potential reasons as to why your cat loves to meow.  Here are a few of the most common.

Why Cat's Meow: 

• They Want Attention - Not all cats like to be left alone.  Some cats want to play or be pet.  If your cat is meowing, he or she might be looking for some love!  Try playing, grooming or talking to your pet a little bit more often each day.
• They're Hungry - Some cats meow when they want food.  If it's close to feeding time, this might be why your cat is being vocal.  If your cat meows every time you go into the kitchen, don't feed your cat when he or she is crying.  Wait until your cat quiets down before feeding.
• They're Saying Hello - Your cat might just be greeting you!  Some cats meow when people come home.
• They're Stressed - Cats that are under stress can become more vocal.  If there are major changes in your home (a new pet or baby) your cat might be stressed.  Try to help your cat adjust to the new changes.
• They're Getting Older - When cats age, they can become confused and disoriented.  They might meow, especially at night.
• They're Getting Sick - If you're not sure why your cat is meowing frequently, it might be due to a medical issue. It's important to bring your cat in for an exam to ensure that they are healthy!

If you have any questions about your cat's odd behaviors, contact our office at (863) 588-4200! 

Can You Feed Your Pet Thanksgiving Scraps?

While we love to share and celebrate with our pets during the holidays, it's important to remember that certain foods that are good for us can actually be dangerous to our pets.  However, if you know what you can and cannot feed your pet, certain Thanksgiving foods can be healthy for your pets in small quantities.

Just remember that abrupt changes in diet can cause an upset stomach.  Be sure to keep an eye on your pet and make sure that they don't over-indulge.

Food Scraps You CAN Feed Your Pets:

• Turkey - In small amounts, turkey can be OK.  Just be sure that the meat is lean, light meat that is bone-free.  Dark meat is too greasy for your pets and bones can get lodged in their GI track.
• Mashed Potatoes - Plain mashed potatoes (with minimal fat and salt) can be OK for your pet.  However, potatoes with butter and heavy cream can be too fattening for your pets.  Fatty foods can upset their stomach and even be life threatening.
• Green Beans - Plain, unsalted green beans can be a nutritious holiday treat for your pets.  However, avoid offering your pets green beans that are mixed with other ingredients (i.e. avoid green been casseroles).
• Loose Corn - If you are serving unbuttered corn, this can be a healthy treat for your dog.  However, avoid corn on the cob.  Small pieces can cause an obstruction in your dog's digestive system.
• Pumpkin - Pumpkin can actually have several health benefits for your pets.  If you can find unsweetened, natural pumpkin, this can be a great holiday treat for your pet.  Just be sure to avoid pumpkin pie fillings, as they are often high in sugar.

Food Scraps You CAN'T Feed Your Pets

• Turkey Gravy - Gravy is often made from stock, pepper and seasoning.  While it may be a delicious addition to your Thanksgiving turkey, it is too fatty for your pets.
• Stuffing -  Stuffing is often full of fat, butter and ingredients (like onions and garlic) that are very harmful to pets.  As a general rule of thumb, it's best not to offer your pets stuffing.
• Candied Yams - Sweet and buttery yams are too sugary and fattening for pets.
• Chocolate - Chocolate can cause high heart rates in dogs, among other problems.  Avoid feeding your pet anything your are baking with chocolate.
• Alcohol - It may seem obvious, but you should keep alcohol out of reach of your pets.  Even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous.

If you have any questions about your pet's odd behaviors, contact our office for more information at (866) 588-4200.