Mancat Monday

It's Mancat Monday, and handsome Evan is still a tired little guy.

I realized we never updated you on all the tests we mentioned Evan was having as a result of his recent intestinal issues. We're happy to say that every single test Evan had, including bloodwork and fecal tests, came back normal. That was a relief, though the vets and I are a bit stumped. I'm starting to just think that Evan's hind limb paralysis is in some way now affecting his intestines. We've ruled out a lot of various diseases as well as food issues, so it's a confusing situation. It wasn't until Evan was 6 years old or so that he started having urinary incontinence as a result of his partial paralysis, so it might just be that his intestines are now being affected. His intestinal issues seem to go in random cycles, at least for now, so perhaps this is just another side effect of his condition. We can live with that, especially considering that otherwise he's acting completely normal and happy, though we'll do any further tests that are necessary should things get worse or change in any concerning way.

Happy Monday, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

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Tip of the Day

Today's National Pet Poison Awareness Month tip is an add-on to our tip from yesterday, when we reminded you to keep doors closed and other obstacles in place to keep your furbaby safe from substances and areas with poison. Taking that one step further, if needed, child-proofing products can be your your best friend even for those furry children in your life. For example, do you have a curious kitty or puppy who has found ways to open cabinets and drawers? This can put a furbaby at risk, such as if those cabinets and drawers contain human medications, cleaners, or other toxic items, or even sharp or other dangerous objects. To prevent prying paws from opening cabinets and drawers, you can get child-proof, or pet-proof, locks that make cabinets and drawers difficult or impossible to open without dexterity, or opposable thumbs. There are also child-proof locks to keep main doors securely closed. This can come in handy if you have a kitty or pup who knows how to manipulate certain door handles.

We've mentioned this on here before, but also don't forget the usefulness of baby gates. They also make gates that are more specifically pet-proof, such as tall ones over which dogs and cats cannot easily jump. These can be used to block access to certain areas of the house to ensure your kitty or pup's safety. For example, you can use baby or pet gates to block access to the kitchen, especially if potentially toxic foods are being prepared. These gates can also be used to block off garbage cans, laundry areas, or other areas of the home where potential poisoning might occur.

Just as with a human child, our kitties and pups can get themselves into trouble. Consider all areas of the home where danger might arise, and then do your research on what you can do to best prevent emergencies from dangers such as accidental poisoning. Do your best to always be one step ahead of your kitty or pup, as difficult as that may be.