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Food
Senior Pet's Health
Why You Need To Feed Your Pet According To Its Age?
Why You Need To Feed Your Pet According To Its Age Group? As pet owners, we’ve definitely come across situations when you’re shopping at the pet store for your furry friend’s food and on the packaging, you see things like “for puppies”, “adults”. You catch yourself wondering if there really is any difference between these pet foods. And looking at the price difference, you might be tempted to even get the food that isn’t ideal for your pet. Let’s find out if there is actually a difference between these foods and why you should actually feed your pets accordingly! What age group is your pet under? The preliminary step you should try to take is to know the age group your pet is under. Check out the age ranges of felines and canines: For cats, your cat is classified as a senior once it reaches 11 years of age. It is, however, not that simple for dogs as it depends on breeds. Why should we differentiate according to age? There are several reasons you should differentiate the food given to your pets according to its age. These include: Age differences Much like humans, dogs and cats have different needs throughout their lives. Because they require different nutrients, its important to ensure that they have the right diet. Dietary requirements Food is created for different age groups to meet their main dietary needs tackled for their age group. Food differences There are different types of food that must be given to cats in different quantities. How different is the food according to age group? Before you get started feeding your pet, it’s important that you first understand the needs, possible health conditions to look out for, and the things/ ingredients to avoid. Puppy/kitten stage At the puppyhood or kittenhood stage, your pet will have higher metabolism due to their young age. High metabolism refers to the faster rate at which food and energy are processed. Energy requirements during the first 4 months are double that of adult dogs and cats. The puppy/kitten stage is an active stage when young burn out energy very fast. What does your pet needs at the puppy/kitten stage? • Higher calories• Higher protein• Higher fat content• DHA• Calcium and Phosphorus• Need to build bones, muscles, and eyesights Note: At this stage, it’s better that you feed your pet protein-rich food. FAQ: Can I feed adult food to my puppy? Many first time owners, confused by the array of choices available, might not understand the difference between puppy food and adult dog food, and may be tempted to feed adult food instead. Some of us already have an adult dog at home and we might see it as an inconvenience to get another pack of food just for puppies. In this case, is it advisable to feed adult dog food to your puppy? You are, in fact, advised not to feed your puppies adult food. Adult dog food has a lower protein, calorie and DHA content than what is required by a growing puppy. Feeding your puppy adult dog food could actually cause your puppy to have developmental problems! So, you should feed puppy food to puppies and feed adult food to adult dogs. Junior pet stage At the Junior pet stage, you may need to feed your pet Junior food- an intermediary food to be fed to your kitten or puppy in the later stages of puppyhood/kittenhood, which is meant to help pets transition into adulthood. Adulthood The way adult dog food is formulated is very different from puppy food. These differences are important for the long-term health of your pet. When your pet reaches adulthood, there is a change in their dietary needs, with specific levels of protein, calories and other nutrients to maintain the proper weight and energy levels so as to preserve their health. Adult Food VS Puppy or Kitten Food • Adult dogs and cats need lower protein content from their calories• Because they have lower metabolism, adults may gain weight easily if fed the same food as kittens and puppies.• Adult dogs and cats should avoid consuming high-calorie density food. Note: At this stage, feeding the right amount of food is very important, and maintaining weight is a key point for adulthood. This is because it can lead to obesity and cardiac conditions if not managed properly. Senior stage At the senior stage, your pet requires a lower level of protein, fat but higher level of carbohydrate in its diet to manage its weight. Weight management is even more important at this stage as your pet will be less active and less likely to move around due to age-induced joint conditions such as arthritis. To help with joint conditions, senior pet food often contains glucosamine, which helps alleviate joint pain. At this stage, it is also very important to factor in health issues your pet has when determining your pet’s diet. As pets get older, they often develop more health conditions such as renal issues. It is, therefore, important that you make appropriate changes to the diet according to their pre-existing health conditions. For example, if your senior dog has renal failure, you can feed them Monge Vet Solution Renal & Oxalate Dog Wet Food. Check out some of our products you can feed your pet according to its age!
Beginner
Cat
Meet The Breeds: Sphynx Cat
Meet The Breeds: Sphynx cats Sphynx cats are known to be unique breeds of cats. They are well-known for their nude-like appearance. Did you know that they are also distinctively intelligent, charming, and affectionate felines? You might be surprised to find out there’s more about this breed of cat than you know! Let’s find out more about the Sphynx cat. Where did Sphynx Cats Originate from? The Sphynx cat was discovered in 1996 (fairly recently). And unlike what many of us think, the Sphynx cat originates from Canada, not Egypt. The Sphynx cat was produced as a result of genetic mutation. In today’s context, Sphynx cats often come from crossbreeding of Devon Rex cats with different hairless cat breeds in other parts of the world. Interestingly enough, the Sphynx cat is not the only breed of hairless cat around, but it is the first hairless cat breed bred precisely for its hairless trait. Why do Sphynx cats look different from other cats? It’s easy to identify a Sphynx cat from other cats thanks to their unique appearance. Some have also said Sphynx cats look like raw chicken. And by “somebody”, we actually mean Rachel from Friends. Are Sphynx cats really hairless? Contrary to what many of us might think, the Sphynx isn’t actually completely “hairless”. Even though the appearance of sphynx cats makes them look as if they are hairless, they are actually covered with a fine layer of downy fuzz. Like many things in life, the Sphynx cats are unique! No two Sphynx cats are 100% identical. In fact, every Sphynx has a different level of hairlessness. This extent of hairlessness largely occurs as a result of a recessive gene. Do Sphynx cats feel cold? With their almost nude-like appearance, you might think that the Sphynx cats are constantly feeling cold. Surprise! Sphynx cats actually feel warmer than other cats. The body temperature of Sphynx cats is actually 4 degrees warmer than the usual “furry” cats. This is the greatest example of how mother nature works in wonderful ways, as the higher body temperature of Sphynx cats is to, in fact, make up for its lack of fur. Are Sphynx cats hypoallergenic? With the absence of fur, many misunderstand that these cats might not cause any allergy at all. This is completely untrue, due to two main misconceptions. Firstly, many think that Sphynx cats are completely hairless, which is untrue. Another key misconception is that fur is the main cause of allergy, when in fact it is Fel d1, the allergenic protein in cat saliva and skin secretions that causes allergies. Hence, Sphynx cats are in fact, not hypoallergenic. What do Sphynx cats eat? Due to higher body temperature, they have higher metabolism rates, need to eat more and more frequently. If you’re an owner of a Sphynx cat, you should ensure that you provide them with the right amount of nutrients to keep up with their higher metabolism rates! How long do Sphynx cats live? The average lifespan of the sphynx cats ranges from 9 to 15 years. The oldest Sphynx cat known to have lived was a Sphynx in Texas by the name of Grandpa Rex. Grandpa Rex passed away at the age of 34 in 1964. Can Sphynx cats swim? While Sphynx cats like being in water, they prefer relaxing in it than playing in it. The therapeutic effect of water helps them to rest and rejuvenate, especially when they have sensitive skin. Are Sphynx cats friendly? Yes, Sphynx cats are friendly. In fact, they are one of the friendliest felines known to man. Their lack of thick fur makes them behave cuddly towards humans because they enjoy the warmth from their human friends. Do Sphynx cats like children? While they don’t exactly have a furry and cuddly appearance, the Sphynx cats are actually very good with children. They have a docile personality and are seen to be a warm and cuddly cat breed. Are Sphynx cats legal in Singapore? Yes, Sphynx cats are legal. However, they are not very easily found in Singapore. The hot and sunny weather in Singapore suggests more meticulous care to protect the cat’s skin, especially when there’s no pet sunscreen available. Are Sphynx cats HDB approved? Unfortunately, in Singapore, all cats are not allowed in HDBs. How much does it cost to buy a Sphynx cat? If you’re interested in buying a Sphynx cat, there are a small amount of Sphynx cats available. The Sphynx cat actually comes at a higher price, due to the limited number of Sphynx cats available. What extra care is needed for Sphynx cats? Since the skin of Sphynx cats is sensitive due to a lack of layer of protection, they will definitely need extra care. Besides, they are not covered with dense coats like other cats, so they get sunburnt or cold as a result. So, what are some care tips for Sphynx cats on sensitive skin? Keep them warm with cat apparel: Clothes for these little creatures are more functional than fashionable. You can get some from perromart to keep your unique feline warm when it’s cold outside or in the house. Supervise your cat in the sun: Fun in the sun? This doesn’t apply to Sphynx cats! Limit your cat’s exposure to the sun to protect them from the harmful UV rays. When they’re allowed in the sun, you should ensure that they’re under your supervision. You can also get lon-sleeved sun-protective clothes. Install a play tent for your cat outdoors (UV protection included to prevent harm to the skin): You can also make a play tent with UV protection for your Sphynx cats for outdoor activities to avoid their skin from being endangered. Cat shoes to shield cats from hot floors: Sphynx cats are indoor cats, but they can also go outside. However, it would be best if you take the precaution of putting cat shoes on them to avoid sunburns. How often do Sphynx cats have to get groomed? Due to their higher susceptibility to skin conditions, you should bathe and groom your Sphynx cats more often than other cats do. It’s advised to give them a bath every week. There are some cleaning products that might help alleviate their skin sensitivity available on perromart. What are some common health conditions for Sphynx cats? Some of the common health conditions for Sphynx cats include: Skin problems: Excess oils on Sphynx cats can lead to skin problems such as rashes (urticaria pigmentosa) and cutaneous mastocytosis, as well as issues with ear wax, and skin infections. Body temperature regulation issues: Due to their lack of fur, Sphynx cats tend to get chilled easily. Ear infections: Dirt in your Sphynx ears, and excess wax can lead to ear infections. Ensure you stay away from cotton swabs when you’re cleaning Sphynx cat’s ears, as they can damage your cat’s eardrums. Periodontal diseases: Sphynx cats are also susceptible to dental issues, and that’s why they need regular dental cleanings. Some of the symptoms of these diseases include bad breath, tooth discoloration or tartar, difficulty eating, drooling, pawing at the teeth, or red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Sphynx Cats are susceptible to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a condition in which the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick. This condition usually develops as your cat grows older. How to prevent these health conditions? You can protect your Sphynx cats from the aforementioned health conditions with some basic care tips. Bring them for regular health checkups Feed them with better food (control cat’s oil secretion) Give them intermittent baths during the week to help with their sensitive skin Provide them with Cat apparel to keep them warm and protect their skin Avoid using cotton buds that can damage their eardrums
Beginner
Adopting a Pet
Which Dog Breed Should I Get?
Ever wondered which dog breed suits you the best? Anyone who owns a dog knows how wonderful these animals really are. They make great additions to any home whether you are looking for a guard dog, a playmate, or simply a companion. Along with the myriad of joys that a dog brings to one’s home, there is responsibility. The decision of bringing a dog home must be well considered, as it really is a lifelong commitment. To make the process easier, we have compiled a general list of considerations that should be taken into account before deciding upon the breed you want to get. What dog should I get? 1. Size This is an incredibly important aspect to look into while deciding upon the breed. The size of the dog you eventually get will largely depend on the type of residence you live in. Apartment residents will need to abide by the list of HDB Approved dogs; the official list is available on the Housing and Development Board website. The breeds listed are typically smaller and have a lesser requirement for space. Dogs that are larger (for example, a Labrador Retriever) will have greater energy expenditure and require more space to be healthy. However, larger dogs can also be kept in apartments with suitable care and exercise (for example, taking the dog out regularly for long walks). 2. Energy Level Of The Dog It is immensely important that the dog’s energy level is compatible with that of its owner. The owner needs to be cognizant of its pet’s energy and find suitable ways to channel it appropriately. For example, Alaskan Malamutes have high energy levels and will need to be exercised regularly. If you lead an active lifestyle, high energy breeds are a great choice. However, if your lifestyle is greatly sedentary or you don’t have enough time to walk your dog, consider getting a low energy breed (for example, a French Bulldog). It is essential to ensure that your dog receives sufficient exercise to expend its built-up energy. Unused energy may be converted into aggression, general inertia or restlessness (chewing on objects left around, barking, prancing around the household). Just as exercise forms a pivotal part of human health, dogs require exercise to ward off diseases such as heart disease and obesity. 3. Temperament Of The Breed Behavioral traits of a breed are an important factor to take into consideration before you bring a dog home. If children are present at home, consider getting a breed that is relatively more docile and companionable. Popular choices for child-friendly breeds include the Golden Retriever and Bulldogs. These dogs are not only immensely loyal, but are also highly intelligent and sensitive. They are easy to train which makes them great dogs to play with children. Their docile and loving nature not only makes them perfect fits for kids, but they also make wonderful companions for adults. Clock ten miles on the beach or hop into a swimming pool on a sweltering summer day; these furkids are ready for it all! If you lead an athletic lifestyle, energetic breeds like the Border Collie or Weimaraner make great jogging companions. Since these breeds have notably high endurance and stamina, they don’t tire out easily. If you are more interested in owning a dog for the purpose of security, German Shepherds and Dobermans are particularly renowned for their strong sense of territory. Any trespassing will trigger a series of barks from these breeds, alerting you instantly. There are several other parameters that will influence the temperament of a breed, such as gender and parental history. Research has shown that male dogs are likely to be slightly more ebullient, territorial and playful compared to their female counterparts. The temperament of your dog’s parents is also a strong indication of behavioral traits that your pet is likely to exhibit. It is always a good idea to ask about the history of the parents to gain foresight about your pet’s temperament in the future. 4. Maintenance Some breeds are prone to shedding more hair than others, such as the Shetland Sheepdog. Maintenance for these dogs will involve cleaning the house regularly to ward off the growth of any unwanted microbes. Breeds with thicker coats such as the Irish Setter, will require frequent grooming to prevent tangles and knots setting in the hair. If you anticipate that you may not have sufficient time to devote to the maintenance of your pet, opt for breeds like the Beagle and Jack Russell Terrier, which have comparatively lesser grooming requirements, for they have shorter fur coats. Whichever breed you ultimately choose, remember that all dogs are created equal. Owning a dog is an incredibly rewarding experience and you can expect to make relationships that will last forever.
Beginner
Dry Food
What To Do When My Cat Stops Eating?
Occasionally you may find that your cat seems fussier about its food, only choosing to sample its food before walking away. Perhaps your cat could show signs of refusing to eat whenever you try to set your feline down. Being familiar with your cat’s habits will help you recognize any behavioural changes and you can work out why it may be unwilling or unable to eat as it did before. Here are some reasons why your cat is refusing food. Why Is My Cat Not Eating? 1. Changes In Routine Or Environment Cats are very sensitive to changes in routine and atmosphere. It may be something as simple as your having introduced a new cat to your household, as this could arouse feelings of insecurity. A change in the arrangement of furniture could also unsettle your cat. 2. Emotional Problem Have you been on holiday recently and left your cat with a cat kennel and someone else to look after him daily? A disinterest in food might be due to a simple case of depression. Such minor issues will not present much of a headache for you as they can be dealt with easily. Offering a little healthy treat to tempt your cat or putting a little bit of meat jelly onto its gums just might persuade it to have a little something to eat. You could also try offering a taste of something your cat really does like, to see whether it’s turning its nose up at what’s being offered, or if there are other reasons for its reluctance to eat. 3. Food Transition With cats accustomed to receiving carbohydrate-rich food, a switch to a more health conscious diet could be the reason for its disinterest in food. A refusal of food may be a cat’s attempt to show its displeasure in being denied its desires. Your cat may be under the mistaken impression that if it waits long enough you may relent and give in. However, you should also note that putting an overweight cat on a crash diet of low-carbohydrate food can result in your cat refusing to eat for more than two days. In such circumstances, a prolonged period of rejecting nourishment is likely to result in liver problems as your cat draws on his fat reserves and doesn’t take in the protein which he needs. In other circumstances, should your cat persist in not eating for more than a day or two, it could hint at an underlying health problem. In such situations, a consultation with your veterinarian is advised. 4. Health Problem Your cat might have a problem with its teeth or jaws which make eating painful or difficult, as would any problems associated with its digestive system. It could be suffering from inflamed gums or a broken tooth, a cut in its mouth, or an abscess in its jaws arising from a deep scratch. Your feline could also be experiencing discomfort in its stomach or have an intestinal condition which will reduce its appetite. Your veterinarian will advise on the best course of treatment in these scenarios. However, keeping an eye on your cat and its behaviour will help you deal with any problems before they get worse or chronic, and both you and your vet can make sure it has a full and happy life. What Is The Food That Cats Love The Most? Cats, in general, prefer food with a strong smell and soft texture. They prefer the food at either room temperature or slightly warm. How Can I Get My Cat To Eat? If your cat will not eat, interact with them and let them come to you for attention. If the problem is stress-related, this one-on-one with them may help. If he still won’t eat after a couple of days, consult your vet on what other options there are. If your cat appears to be stressed out by a possible visit to the vet, consider engaging one who will make house halls. If your cat loves playing in the outdoors, it could be that they’ve been stuffing themselves on what nature provided for them and they really don’t need another meal. They might also have been fed by someone else — be sure to add a tag to your cat’s collar so that strangers know that they are not strays. Also, if your cat has any problems with their teeth or gums then this will also put them off their food. It is therefore imperative that you deal with the root issue of your oral care by using long term solutions like sprinkling granules onto their foods to help prevent plaques, or to impose a strict teeth cleaning regime. Be sure to check if their bowls are clean. Cat dishes should be washed at least once a day for dry foods and after every serving for wet foods. Leftover foods allow bacteria to grow which can be harmful to cats, and be doubly sure not to place their food near their litter trays — as the saying goes, ‘don’t eat where you poop’! If you have been feeding your cat dry food, try changing it more frequently especially in a humid environment as dry food, will absorb water, making it soft and potentially off-putting for your cat. In addition to changing their existing dry foods, try adding a bit of wet food to their diet to mix it up! Cats like a bit of variety, and they can be bored with the taste and texture of crunchy dry foods. If you are not using dry food but wet food straight from the fridge, consider warming the food before serving them to your cat. Cats are like humans, in that their sense of taste is closely linked to their sense of smell — if they can’t smell their food, they can’t taste it. Cold foods will not smell as much as they do in room or warmer temperatures, so a quick pop in the microwave should get those feline whiskers twitching! And if they are still not attracted by the wet foods, try adding a few biscuits on top to vary the texture. Syringe feed and feeding tubes are viable options if your cats are still not eating, but only use this as a last resort! What Can I Feed A Sick Cat? In order to recover, encourage your sick feline friend to eat small, frequent meals with high energy, palatable and highly digestible food. Hand-feeding is highly recommended. Meanwhile, fresh water should be available at all times as well. Your veterinarian may suggest giving fluids or liquid food via a syringe if your cat can’t eat on his own. How Long A Cat Can Live Without Food? In general, cats can potentially survive for weeks without eating, but that heavily depends on their water intake and overall health. If your cat fails to eat for more than 1 day, it is highly recommended to bring him to the vet clinic, according to PetMD. How Much Water Does A Cat Need To Drink A Day? Water is far more essential for a cat’s survival. According to Catological, cats generally can’t survive without water for more than 3 – 4 days before organ failure occurs. Dr. Jenna Ashton explains that the daily water requirement of a cat is roughly a cup per 10 pounds of body weight. How Do I Get My Cat To Drink? One option is to feed wet food to your cat or to simply add wet food to dry kibble. If wet food isn’t the option, get him a drinking fountain as the flowing water in the fountain can encourage increased water intake. How Long Can A Cat Be Left Alone? An adult cat should be fine to be left alone for 2 days as long as fresh water and a sufficient amount of food are accessible at all times. However, it still depends on other factors, including the safety of the environment and the overall health of your cat. Japanese article: 【猫の食欲不振】ご飯を食べない猫の原因と食べさせ方
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