How to Help Reduce Your Cat's Anxiety

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Cats love to have places to hide and spend time alone, however excessive hiding and trembling can be a sign of anxiety.  If you notice that your pet is exhibiting anxious behavior, here are a few tips to help keep your cat calm.

Tips to Reduce Anxiety:

• Offer An Enriched Environment - Make your home more reminiscent of the outdoors.  Install a fish tank or hang a bird feeder outside of the window.  This can help your cat feel more comfortable at home.
• Give Them Toys - Toys don't have to be complex.  Even an empty paper bag can be entertaining for your cat.  You can also give them a wand toy that they can pounce on and hunt.
• Switch Their Food - Cats are natural hunters.  Try to mimic that during their meals!  You can switch their food bowl to a puzzle feeder that dispenses kibble when it is batted about.
• Don't Over Pet - We love to spend time with our cats and pet them when we're allowed, but many cats don't like to be petted.

Read more about how to cure and prevent cat anxiety here.  If you are concerned about your cat's behavior and are looking to make your home a more comfortable place for you and your pet, visit on of our offices!  Our professional veterinarians can provide you with tips and advice to help reduce stress and help your cat live a happy and healthy life.

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Visit Our YouTube Channel!

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Have you visited our YouTube channel recently?  Watch our videos to learn more about our practices, watch client education seminars, and learn about the technologies we use at Bregman Vet Group!

Local Rescue Cat Adoption on 5th Avenue

Feline-Only Vet Practices on 

Long Island and Brooklyn

Visit our YouTube Channel Here: http://goo.gl/Ekd2N2

You can also visit one of our convenient locations with your pet below:

Long Island: 
The Cat Hospital - 2 Hillside Avenue, Suite E in Williston Park

Brooklyn: 
Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital - 99 North 9th Street in Brooklyn 
5th Avenue Cat Clinic - 225 5th Avenue in Brooklyn 

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Tips To Help Identify Common Cat Skin Problems

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It's not always easy to know what your cat is thinking.  They tend to be masters at disguising any signs that they aren't feeling well.  While we always recommend bringing your pet in for a visit if you notice any unusual symptoms, there are a few ways to identify common skin problems and their causes at home.

Common Skin Problems:

• Swelling - The most common cause of swelling is an abscess.  A small bump or lesion can mask a large pocket of debris under the skin.  If your cat shys away from your touch, the swelling may be causing pain.  Bring them in for a visit to have the swelling checked out.
• Sores - Red lesions on the face or ears that do not resolve on their own may be due to a viral, fungal, or bacterial infection.  Other less persistent sores can be caused by allergies.
• Hair Loss - Fleas and allergies are the most common causes of hair loss in cats.  With an evaluation and test, we can determine which is causing your pet's hair loss.
• Allergies - Seasonal allergies and food allergies are both a concern in pets.  With an allergy test or an elimination diet, we can determine the cause of your pet's allergy.
• Flaky Skin - Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in keeping your cat's skin healthy.  Your cat may benefit from a diet or supplement with additional fatty acids to make sure they are getting the necessary nutrients.

Check out this article for more tips on how to identify common cat skin problems.  You can also contact Bregman Vet Group with any questions you may have.  

If you notice your cat is itchy or behaving unusually, let us know.  We are here to help your pet live a long, happy and healthy life.

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How to Keep Your Cat Parasite-Free

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

When was the last time you brought your cat to the vet?  Regular vet visits are one of the best ways to keep your pet healthy and parasite-free.  Here are a few helpful tips and recommendations.

Parasite Control Tips:

• Visit the Vet - Having your cat examined annually will help make sure your pet is healthy and parasite-free.
• Test for Heartworm - Heartworm disease often goes undiagnosed.  It's important to have your pet tested for heartworm disease periodically or when your pet experiences any of the associated symptoms, including weight loss, asthma-like attacks and coughing.
• Administer Anthelmintic Treatment - Kittens should be treated starting at two weeks of age.  The treatment should be repeated every two weeks until they are eight weeks old.
• Conduct Fecal Exams - Fecal examinations should be conducted two to four times during a kittens first year of life.  Adult cats should receive exams once a year, depending on their health and lifestyle.

Internal and external parasites are a common problem among pets.  Check out this article for more tips on how to keep your cat parasite-free.  You can also contact Bregman Vet Group with any questions you have about parasite control or to schedule an appointment to diagnose, treat, and prevent parasites.

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Happy First Day of Fall!

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Happy Fall!  Are you ready for the crisp, cool weather?  We are!  Autumn is the perfect season to spend time outside with your pets.  While there are many benefits to enjoying the fall season, there are a few precautions pet owners should take.

Avoid These Fall Pet Poisons:

• Mushrooms - There are more mushrooms in autumn than any other time of the year.  If you take your pet for a walk, make sure that your pet stays away from certain mushrooms.  Certain types can poison your pet.
• Chocolate - Halloween is right around the corner.  Make sure that you keep chocolate and other candies away from your pets.
• Xylitol - This sweetener is found in a lot of sugar-free candies and gum.  However, it can be dangerous for dogs to ingest.
• Cold Medicine - Unfortunately, fall is also the season for colds and allergies.  If you are taking medicine with the painkiller acetaminophen (tylenol) or the decongestant pseudoephedrine, keep it out of reach of your pet.

Check out this article from the Huffington Post for more tips on what to keep away from your pet this fall.  You can also contact Bregman Vet Group for more tips on how to safely enjoy the fall season.

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Preventing and Managing Feline House-Soiling

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Feline house-soiling is one of the most common reasons that cats are abandoned.  However, this problem is often due to a specific physical, social, or medical issue that needs to be addressed.  The American Association of Feline Practitioners provides pet owners with information on how they can prevent, manage, and resolve feline house-soiling.

Causes of House-Soiling

• Environmental and Social Factors – Some cats may avoid using a litter box that is placed in a high traffic area.  They might feel intimidated by a more dominant cat or they may have had a negative experience when they were near the litter box.
• Marking Behavior – It is normal for cats to mark their scent.  Unneutered male cats and most unsprayed females will also use urine spraying as part of their sexual behavior.
• Medical Causes and Problems – If your pet experiences this behavior change, you should bring them to our practice for a physical examination and urinalysis to check for infections, cystitis, arthritis, kidney problems, diabetes, and other medical issues.
• Feline Idiopathic Cystitis – This medical condition increases the frequency of urination.  It can also cause difficulty and pain when urinating and your pet may have blood in their urine.

Many cats that are abandoned by pet owners due to house-soiling end up in shelters where they are often euthanized.  Although it can be a complicated problem, there are ways to prevent house-soiling. After you determine the cause behind your cat’s behavior problem, you can make the necessary changes to prevent house-soiling in the future.

For more tips on how to prevent, manage, and resolve feline house-soiling, read this brochure produced by the American Association of Feline Practitioners.  You can also contact Bregman Vet Group with any questions you have regarding your pet’s health.

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Recognizing the Signs of Asthma

  THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

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It’s normal for dogs to pant on hot days or when they feel tired, but pet owners should be aware that asthma can also make breathing difficult in pets.  This allergic reaction triggers inflammation that can narrow or block airways.  We remind pet owners to keep an eye out for clues that may indicate that your pet has asthma.

Asthma Symptoms:

• Heavy panting
• Extreme expansion and contraction of chest muscles
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Loss of energy
• Loss of appetite
• Pale or blue gums (in severe cases)

Both cats and dogs are susceptible to asthma.  If you notice that your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, you should bring your pet into our office for a visit.  We can help you determine the allergen that is causing your pet’s asthma.

For tips on how to create a safe living space for asthmatic pets, check out this article.  You can also contact Bregman Vet Group with any questions you have regarding your pet’s health.

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Treating Summer Insect Bites

  THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Have you been spending a lot of time outdoors with your pet?  Whether you take a trip to the park, beach, or stay in your own backyard, your pet can still be exposed to a number of insects and allergens.  Here are a few signs and symptoms to help you recognize and respond to an insect bite or sting this summer.

Symptoms:

• Pain
• Itching
• Licking a certain area extensively
• Hives surrounding the affected area
• Difficulty breathing
• Redness

If your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, inspect your pet for bites or stings.  If you do find a small stinger, do not attempt to pick it out.  Instead, brush the stinger with a firm object, like a credit card.

Once the stinger is removed, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the affected area.  Always bring your pet into our office to make sure that there are not additional issues.  We may recommend an over-the-counter antihistamine.

For more tips on how to manage common summer ailments, check out this article.  You can also contact our office with any questions you have regarding your pet’s health.

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Common Cat Care Myths

  THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

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There are many misconceptions when it comes to caring your cat’s health.  This can make it difficult to make sure that your cats are getting the health care they need to live a long and happy life.  Are you aware of these common cat myths?

Cat Myths:

• Cats Don’t Need Annual Exams – Cats are very good at hiding their illness.  While your cat may not be exhibiting any unusual symptoms, routine examinations can check for medical problems before they become a serious problem for your pet. 
• Indoor Cats Don’t Need Vaccines – Infectious diseases can be carried on your clothes and shoes or spread through an open window or screen door.  While indoor cats may require fewer vaccines, it’s still important that they are protected.
• Indoor Cats Don’t Get Parasites – Just because your cat doesn’t go outside doesn’t mean they are immune to parasites.  We encourage you to bring your pet in for a parasitic screening test.
• Indoor Cats Don’t Need Microchips – Even indoor cats can sneak out an open door or window.  Microchips are a great way to make it easy to identify your pet in an emergency.
• Cats Don’t Need Exercise – All animals, even your cat, can benefit from exercise!  It’s a great way to prevent obesity and keep your pet healthy.

For more cat myths and how to keep your pet happy and healthy, check out this article.  You can also contact our office with any questions you have regarding your cats health.

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Fruits to Feed Your Dog This Summer

  THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Photo: Source

Love sharing food with your pet?  Certain summer fruits can be good for dogs!  Here are a few good fruit choices to feed to your pet!

Good Fruit Choices:

• Bananas – Bananas are a great source of amino acids, electrolytes, minerals, and Vitamins B6 and C.  However, bananas also have a moderately high sugar content.  They are a better choice for working and athletic dogs that burn high amounts of energy.
• Avocados – Although the pit of an avocado contains persin, which is toxic to pets, the avocado flesh is actually safe to eat.
• Blueberries – Blueberries contain antioxidants, fiber and phytochemicals that can boost your dog’s health! 
• Strawberries – Strawberries are high in fiber and vitamin C.  They also contain an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth.  Just be careful and feed them in moderation – strawberries can be high in sugar.
• Apples – Apples are full of fiber and vitamins.  However, you don’t want to give your dog a whole apple.  Slice it up first instead!
• Cantaloupe – Cantaloupe have beta-carotene which can be good for your pet’s vision.  Studies show that beta-carotene may even help prevent or reduce the growth of cataracts.
• Watermelon – On hot days, the high fluid content in watermelon can help ward off dehydration!

While these fruits are great choices for your pet, other fruits can make your pet feel sick.  Be sure to avoid feeding your dog grapes, raisins, holly berries, cherries, juniper berries, baneberries, poke berries, and mistletoe berries.  These fruits can upset your dog’s stomach. 

For more summer fruits that are good for your pet, check out this article.  You can also contact Bregman Vet Group if you have any questions about what foods are good for your pets.

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What To Do When You Find A Lost Pet

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Do you know what to do when you find a lost pet?  Taking the right action can help return the pet to his or her owner!  Here are a few steps to take if you find a pet that looks lost.

Lost Pet Tips:

• Approach Carefully – Always use caution when approaching an unfamiliar pet.  They may be frightened or injured.  If the pet is afraid, they may behave unpredictably. 
• Check Tags – After you approach the pet, you should first check for tags.  This will help you identify the owner.  Your local animal control office can provide you with information on how to use a dog license number to locate the number.
• Check for a Microchip – If the pet doesn’t have visible tags, take the pet to our office or to a local shelter!  The pet may be fitted with a microchip that is matched to the owner’s contact information.
• Work with a Shelter or Animal Control Department – These organizations can help you find the lost pet’s owner, as they are the first place many pet owners come to look for a missing pet. 

If you have any questions about what to do if you find a lost pet or how to care for your own pet, contact Bregman Vet Group!  We even offer free microchips to help keep your own pet protected with any regularly priced spay or neuter!  This small chip is a great way to make sure your pet returns safely home in the unfortunate event they become lost.  Visit our website or call our office for more information.

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photo credit: Joybot via photopin cc

Meet Our Team: Getting to Know Sam Shamblin

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Meet Sam Shamblin, the Office Manager of Paws and Claws and 5th Avenue Cat Clinic!

Sam is a valuable member of our team and has worked with us for over two years!  She is a hard worker and she keeps our practice running smoothly.  We are thrilled to have her at Bregman Vet Group.

Originally from Fredericksburg, VA, Sam attended Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) before deciding to take a break from school to move here to New York.  We are happy that she did!  

Sam explains, "growing up we never took our pets to the vet, so when I got the job here I took on a whole new appreciation for what went on behind the scenes for all these animals and learned how to help give them a healthy and happy life."

When asked what her most memorable experience was on the job, Sam recalled participating in a photo shoot for Bank of America.

"Dr. Bregman and I got to feel like models for the day.  My pug was even in the shoot. :)"

When she's not on the job, Sam expresses her creative side.  She loves crafts and is even taking a pottery class!  On Saturday nights, you might find her relaxing at home, watching a movie with a big plate of pasta.

Call to learn more about how Sam Shamblin and the Bregman Vet Group can help your pet stay happy and healthy!  

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Are you making any of these common pet-owner mistakes?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Photo Source: Wikipedia

Many pet owners make the same common errors when trying to keep their pet healthy and well-behaved.  Here are a few tips to help you avoid these common errors when caring for your furry friend.

Common Pet Owner Mistakes:

• Buying a Pet Spontaneously – You should always look into whether or not a pet will be the right fit for your family before bringing it home.  Certain pets may be more active than others.  It is important to find the best cat or dog for your lifestyle.
• Handing Out Too Many Treats – We love to help our pets feel loved, but giving them too many treats will lose their training value.  Only give your pet a treat as a reward for good behavior.
• Not Allowing Enough Time for Exercise – Pets need to unleash their energy through physical activity.  This is both so that they stay healthy and so that they don’t channel their energy into barking, jumping, or hostile behavior.
• Failing to Make Your Home Pet-Friendly – Make sure that your home is comfortable for your pet.  Consider the location of your pet’s bed or litter box.  Make sure that they are in quiet areas where your pet will have some privacy.

Read this article for more top pet owner mistakes.  You can also contact Bregman Vet Group with any questions you have regarding how to care for your pet.

Would You Bring Your Pet to a Pet Psychic?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Recently, ABC News interviewed Melissa Bacelar, an actress turned pet psychic.

Bacelar owns seven dogs and three rabbits and uses her psychic abilities to not only communicate with her pets, but the pets of others as well. Thanks to her telepathic abilities, she is able to understand what the animal is feeling based on messages they send through.

Bacelar couldn't ignore her strong connection to animals so she started taking classes to concentrate more on using her psychic ability properly.

Although dog whispering is Bacelar’s strong point, she holds sessions with both her clients and their pets to help the pair communicate and understand each other better.

While some may not believe her ability, Bacelar's clients know she is capable of communicating with pets because she verifies something only the pet and owner will know.

To read the full article on Melissa Bacelar’s psychic abilities please CLICK HERE

Bregman Veterinary Group wants to keep your pets happy also. For more information on proper care for your pets, please visit us on the web. 

What Did This Cat Eat? Can You Guess?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Can you guess what this cat ate by looking at these images? Make your guess and scroll down for the answer! 

If you guessed a nickel and steel wool, you're correct! 

We removed these items through a surgical procedure on Friday night. Our feline friend is doing well so far!

Perfectly Timed Cat Photos!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Have you ever tried to snap a photo of your pet "in the act"? If you have tried, you know that if you don't act  quick, you can miss the hilarious moment! 

Here are a few perfectly timed cat photos, courtesy of buzzfeed.com! Let us know what you think of them on our Facebook page, linked HERE!

Happy Holidays from The Bregman Veterinary Group!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Everyone at the Bregman Veterinary Group would like to wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season, and a very happy and healthy new year!

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Happy Holidays!  

Canine Christmas Carol Videos!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Pet lovers, this is a MUST watch video! Check out these hilarious canine Christmas carols! Let us know what you think on our Facebook page, linked HERE!

Have You Checked out our Pinterest Account?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Did you know the Bregman Veterinary Group has a Pinterest account?

 If not, you’re missing out! Pinterest allows us to share some of our own photos as well as pin some of our other favorites. We have a bunch of different categories and boards for you to check out including a few of our favorite things, animal adventures, pet procedures, humor, Bregman Vet Group experts and many others!

So, get on PINTEREST today and PIN our pictures! Let us know what you think of our Pinterest account on our Facebook page, linked HERE! 

Pet Apps Available for your Mobile Device!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Do you have an iPad of iPhone? If you do, you’re probably extremely familiar with the app store. Well, apps aren't just for people anymore!

There are tons of popular pet apps available on your mobile device with prices ranging from free to just a few dollars!

Here are a couple of popular pet apps available for the iPhone, iPod or iPad! Let us know what you think of these apps on our Facebook page, linked HERE!

Dog Park Finder Plus – lists more than 6,000 dog parks and beaches! Also lists 12,000 dog-friendly restaurants! (Great for traveling with your pets)

Find Pet Friendly Hotels- another great app if you’re traveling with pets! This app lists over 10,000 pet-friendly hotels.

Fido Doctor- lists dog friendly locations

Pet Poison Help – lists poisons for pets and what to do and how to get help if your pet get poisoned

Pet First Aid – this app has a collection of videos and detailed instructions on what to do if you need to care for your pet  

Petfinder Mobile – included more than 370,000 animals from 14,000 adoption groups!

To read the full list of apps, CLICK HERE.