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Osteoarthritis is a very common pathology among our friends the dogs. It often affects older dogs but also puppies.

In order to relieve the dog's discomfort, owners most often opt for medicated treatments prescribed by a veterinarian. However, theuse of natural treatments such as phytotherapy can become a real alternative.

What is osteoarthritis in dogs?

Osteoarthritis affects about 25% of dogs. Just as in humans, osteoarthritis can become very disabling with age. A good management and an early detection allows to delay the harmful effects of this disease.

Osteoarthritis is characterized by a progressive and irreversible degeneration of the cartilage of one or more joints. This degeneration affects in particular the hips, elbows and other bony parts of the animal.

This results in locomotor disorders characterized by reduced joint mobility, inflammation and lameness.

It is often difficult to detect because it develops gradually and the dog adapts to the pain.

There are two categories of osteoarthritis:

• Primary or primitive osteoarthritis occurs with aging. It causes the permanent degradation of cartilage over the years and a decrease in the regeneration capacity of worn cartilage.
• Secondary osteoarthritis can occur in puppies as a result of abnormal force on the joint. This can be caused by excessive sports activity, for example, but also by malformations such as elbow or hip dysplasia.

The causes of osteoarthritis in dogs

Before talking about the possible causes of this disease, we can briefly mention the subject of symptoms. It is important to know that from one dog to another, the signs of osteoarthritis can vary considerably.

It can be detected on a hip x-ray with no other visible signs. But some dogs can also live with this condition for many years without any apparent symptoms.

Among the clinical signs that are most often found in dogs:

• Refuses to go for walks;
• Loss of appetite;
• Often tired and does not want to play anymore;
• Shows signs of pain when touched.

1 Aging of the dog

One of the primary causes of osteoarthritis in dogs is natural aging. This is the primary type of osteoarthritis affecting older dogs. It is due to theerosion of the cartilage generally affecting several joints at the same time.

2 Genetic abnormalities

Hereditary abnormalities such as hip or elbow dysplasia most often affect large dogs such as German Shepherds, Hovawarts and Bernese Mountain Dogs.

Breeders are working on these parameters in order to fight against their expansion.

3 Eating disorders

Throughout its growth, the puppy's owner must take care to monitor its diet. It must be adapted according to his age, weight andexercise.

If you are obese or overweight, this can accelerate the wear and tear on your joints and increase the risk of early osteoarthritis as a result of overloading the system.

4 Significant physical activity

Long-distance running, violent games and other stimuli, intense and repetitive physical activities promote the development of osteoarthritis in dogs.

This is why it is necessary to be vigilant as to the efforts that one asks to the animal. The evolution of the different activities must be progressive to protect its health.

What can be done to treat a dog with osteoarthritis?

1 Adopt food supplements

Certain vitamins and omega-3s are an alternative to conventional medications. Chondroprotectors, substances that protect the dog's cartilage, also have beneficial effects on mobility. Glucosamine and chondroitin, for example, can be found in certain supplements.

2 Opt for hydrotherapy

For a dog that has difficulty getting up and walking,hydrotherapy is a great way to relieve osteoarthritis and improve his overall physical condition.

For example, swimming on a treadmill in a pool for ease of movement or swimming in the sea. Indeed, this way, the weight on the joints is limited and swimming is also beneficial in case of overweight.

3 Use drug treatments

Medical treatments prescribed by the veterinarian can improve the animal's quality of life by relieving the pain of rheumatism. The treatments are very often based on analgesics and anti-inflammatories.

In the case of secondary osteoarthritis, surgery can also be a solution. It will correct the abnormalities to avoid any risk of locomotor sequelae.

4 Exercise in moderation

In order to delay the clinical symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs, it is advisable to exercise them, but in moderation.

Contrary to what you might think, a dog suffering from osteoarthritis can exercise. It is even beneficial for him to delay the development of the disease.

The objective is to proceed progressively by proposing, for example, several short walks during the day rather than one long one. This will help to fight against ankylosis of the joints.

As soon as the stiffness begins to subside, activities can be increased in intensity. However, it is important to cool the dog down afterwards, especially with a quiet walk.

Activities such as throwing a ball, riding a bike and other violent games should be avoided.

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Seeing your cat struggling to urinate is worrying. These difficulties may indicate serious problems with your feline's urinary system. Every part of theurinary tract - from the kidneys to the bladder - plays a crucial role in eliminating waste and keeping your cat healthy. Lore & Science guides you through the possible causes of these difficulties, the symptoms to watch out for, and the steps to follow to help your companion return to normal, pain-free urination.

Signs of difficulty urinating in cats

Cats are often discreet animals when they're in pain, but there are several telltale signs of difficulty urinating that you can spot. For example, your cat may try to use the litter box more often, without much success. You may also notice that he spends a lot of time in a urination position without producing much urine, or worse, any at all. Another sign isbloody urine, which can indicate a urinary tract infection or kidney stones. Your cat may also express pain by meowing or complaining during elimination. Finally, lethargy, loss of appetite, and even behavioral changes such asaggression can indicate that something is wrong.

Causes of difficulty urinating in cats

Urinary tract infections

Urinary tract infections are among the most common causes of difficulty in urinating in cats, especially females. They occur when bacteria enter the urethra and travel upwards to the bladder. This bacterial invasion causes inflammation, makingurination painful and difficult. An untreated urinary tract infection can spread to the kidneys, leading to a serious kidney infection, or pyelonephritis, which can damage these vital organs.

Kidney and urinary stones

Kidney and urinary stones, also known as uroliths, are solid mineral formations that can develop in your cat's kidneys, bladder orurethra. These stones can block the normal flow of urine, making urination difficult or impossible. Kidney stones are particularly painful and require immediate medical attention. Their presence may be due to a mineral imbalance, often linked to diet or genetic predisposition. If left untreated, kidney stones can cause permanent damage to the kidneys, leading to renal failure.

Renal failure

Kidney failure is another possible cause of difficulty urinating in cats, and can be acute or chronic. This condition occurs when the kidneys no longer function efficiently to filter waste products from the blood and produce urine.Chronic renal failure usually develops slowly, over several months or years, whereasacute renal failure appears suddenly, often following an infection, intoxication, or obstruction. Cats suffering from renal failure may find it difficult to urinate due to an accumulation of toxins in their body, affecting the entire urinary system.

Diseases of the urinary tract

Other diseases of the urinary tract, such as feline interstitial cystitis (FIC) or feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), can also cause difficulty in urinating. ICF is a chronic inflammation of the bladder, often with no identifiable infectious cause, which causes pain and difficulty in urinating. MVUIF, on the other hand, groups together several urinary disorders, including infections, stones and cystitis. These conditions are often exacerbated by stress, inappropriate diet or lack of hydration.

How can you help your cat overcome these difficulties?

Consult a vet immediately

The first step is to consult a vet as soon as you notice your cat is having trouble urinating. Urinary problems can quickly become medical emergencies, especially if an obstruction is present. The veterinarian will perform a physical examination and tests (urinalysis, X-rays, ultrasound, etc.) to identify the underlying cause.

In the case of urinary tract infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate the infection. If kidney stones are present, specific treatment, such as dissolving the stones with a special diet or, in some cases, surgery, may be required. In the case of renal failure, supportive treatment with a suitable diet and medication to control symptoms will be put in place.

Stay well hydrated

Hydration is crucial to your cat's urinary health. Encouraging regular water consumption helps prevent urinary tract infections and kidney stones. If your cat isn't naturally inclined to drink a lot of water, you can try using cat water fountains, which stimulate their curiosity and encourage them to drink more. You can also add water to their dry food or switch to a wet diet to increase their water intake.

Adapt your cat's diet

Preventing urinary problems in cats

Maintain a healthy weight

Obesity is a risk factor for many health problems in cats. Overweight cats are more likely to develop kidney stones and other urinary disorders. Make sure your cat stays active with regular play and provides a balanced diet adapted to its caloric needs.

Provide clean, accessible litter

Cats are very fussy about the cleanliness of their litter box. A dirty or inaccessible litter box can discourage them from urinating. Urine retention tends to lead to urinary problems. Be sure to clean the litter box daily and place it in a quiet, easily accessible spot. If you have several cats, it's advisable to provide one litter box per cat, plus one extra.

When to worry and seek urgent medical attention

If your cat hasn' t urinated for more than 24 hours, if it seems extremely painful when trying to urinate, or if you notice the presence of blood in its urine, consult a veterinarian immediately. Complete urinary obstruction , often caused by stones or urinary plugs, can be fatal if not treated promptly. Failure to urinate is particularly serious, as it can lead to a rapid build-up of toxins in the bloodstream, putting your cat's life at risk. In such cases, rapid veterinary intervention, often in the form of catheterization or surgery, is required to unblock the urethra and enable your cat to resume normal urination.

Conclusion

Difficulty urinating in cats is not a problem to be taken lightly. Urinary tract infections, kidney stones or kidney failure are all potential risks that should not be overlooked. The key to helping your cat lies in careful observation, rapid response and ongoing prevention. Consult your vet at the first sign of difficulty in urinating. As you can see, a healthy environment, a balanced diet and regular medical check-ups are the best ways to keep your feline's urinary tract healthy.

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You've decided to take the plunge into the world of dog sports competitions. This project requires both dedication and meticulous preparation. Whether you're an experienced dog owner or new to the world of dog sports, the key to success lies in proper preparation. In this article, Lore & Science reveals the essential steps to prepare your dog for a sporting event

Choosing the best dog sport for your dog

The first crucial step in preparing your dog for a sporting competition is to take the time to carefully select the sport that best matches his natural aptitudes. Skills and predispositions vary considerably from breed to breed, and it's essential to match these innate talents with the appropriate sporting discipline.

During this selection phase, you need to make a careful assessment of your dog's physical and mental characteristics . Some breeds are renowned for their speed and agility, making them predestined for sports such asagility or racing. Other breeds, endowed with great intelligence and excellent obedience skills, excel in precision sports such as competitiveobedience orrhythmic obedience. However, don't limit your consideration to racial characteristics alone. Also take into account your dog's personality and individual preferences.

Adapting your dog's nutrition for sporting events

When preparing your dog for a sporting event, nutrition is of paramount importance. It's advisable to provide your canine companion with a high-quality food specially designed for sporting dogs. These foods are formulated to provide a balanced range of essential nutrients, ensuring that your dog has the energy and vitality he needs to perform.

Portion control is also a crucial part of your dog's nutritional preparation. It's essential to keep a close eye on the quantities you feed your dog. This helps avoid two common pitfalls: overweight, which can impair sporting performance, and undernourishment, which can lead to a lack of energy.

Just before an event, you can take a course of Pack Pre Compétition, which combines 2 100% natural supplements to improve mobility and strengthen joints and tendons. This combination can be particularly beneficial in preparation for sporting competitions such as ring or agility.

Optimizing the physical preparation of your sporting dog

Keeping your canine companion in top physical condition is obviously a crucial step in preparing him effectively for a demanding sporting competition. We recommend that, with the help of a specialized trainer or your veterinarian, you draw up a training program specially tailored to the particular requirements of your chosen sport. Whether it's racing, jumping, agility exercises or any other specific activity, each element needs to be strategically integrated to develop your dog's skills and fitness.

Combine this personalized training program with regular veterinary follow-up. Your veterinarian will be able to check that your sporting dog is in good health and fit to compete. What's more, your veterinarian can give you sound advice on injury prevention and help you draw up a preparation plan that ensures your dog's safety and well-being.

Sporting dog recovery for better performance

Post-exercise recovery is crucial to maintaining the sporting performance of our canine companions throughout the year. Sporting dogs, whether in agility, canicross, ring or any other dog sport, are subject to considerable physical demands. Effective recovery is essential to avoid fatigue and injury, and to maintain their general well-being.

So, to succeed in the demanding world of canine sporting competitions, meticulous preparation is essential. Choice of sport, nutrition, physical preparation, recovery... These essential steps will enable you to prepare your dog for a sporting competition in a complete and thoughtful way. Your dedication and commitment, combined with proper preparation, will maximize your dog's chances of success on the competition field.

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Every day, toxins build up in your dog's body. The more waste in his body, the less energy your dog will have. Currently, we are seeing more complicated disease symptoms in dogs and this is mainly related to environmental changes.

A regular detox and drainage treatment to eliminate harmful substances from the body will keep your dog in great shape!

WASTE = TOXIC SUBSTANCES

The need for detoxification

Your dog absorbs toxins through the respiratory tract, mouth or skin. Toxins have a preference for fatty tissue. Body tissues that contain a lot of fat and where toxins can easily accumulate are :

The brain
The brain contains 60% fat. If toxins nestle in the brain, they can trigger epilepsy, among other things.

Liver
Toxins impair liver function. As a result, your dog will have less energy and become tired more quickly.

Joints
Hyaluronic acid is the main component of joint fluid and acts as a lubricant. Toxic substances like to accumulate in this fat-rich tissue, which can lead to joint problems.

Detoxification is an active biochemical process

The most important excretions from the dog's body are sweat and urine. Both of these have a water base and are therefore not "fat soluble". It is like putting a drop of olive oil in a glass of water: the oil floats on the water and does not dissolve. To eliminate a toxin in the body, it must first be converted into a water-soluble molecule. This task is performed by the liver. This organ filters, neutralizes and transforms toxins. Then, these will :

➤ to the liver and gallbladder, to be excreted in bile and blood
➤ to the kidneys and bladder, to be excreted in urine
➤ to the lymphatic system and skin, to be excreted in sweat through perspiration
➤ to the large intestines, to be excreted through stools
➤ to the lungs, to be exhaled through the air and secreted by the mucus layer (by coughing through mucus or sneezing)

This detoxification process requires a lot of energy from your dog. During a cleanse, your dog may be lazier for 2 or 3 days.

Plants can help your dog!

Milk thistle
has liver-protective and detoxifying properties. It also contains "silymarin", a substance that supports liver cell function so they can more easily neutralize toxins. This enhances the ability to render free radicals harmless and stimulates liver regeneration.

Artichoke and dandelion
stimulate intestinal, liver and kidney function.

Detox
By stimulating liver and kidney function, detox - a superficial cleansing - is a rapid and immediate elimination of toxins. A detox cure is indicated after medical procedures, prolonged medical treatment, deworming or intoxication.

Did you know that?

A healthy liver can eliminate 100% of the waste and toxins circulating in the body?

Drainage
Drainage is a deep cleansing that stimulates the functioning of all excretory organs such as the liver, kidneys, spleen, intestines, lungs and lymph nodes. You could describe it as deep cleansing. The drainage process is a physiological process that only has a decisive long-term effect. That's why such a cure usually lasts 21 to 30 days.

Our advice

Always combine a synthetic product with a detoxification program to minimize the burden on body functions.

For example, after a chemical deworming, a vaccine, or a drug treatment.

Give your dog a detoxification and drainage treatment at least twice a year to keep him in good condition. For example, as a preventive measure to facilitate moulting just before the period.

Moulting requires more energy from your dog than you think, and by regularly purifying his body, you can help your dog make the transition easier.

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Do you take care of your cat'soral hygiene? A lack of care can lead to gingivitis. This inflammatory disease of the gums is quite common in our feline friends. It is characterized by an inflammation of the gums that can be painful and cause bad breath. If not treated quickly, it can lead to more serious periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss and other health problems. Don't panic, in this article we give you all our tips on how to spot, treat but also prevent gingivitis in cats.

What causes gingivitis in cats?

Gingivitis in cats can be caused by a variety of factors, such as plaque buildup, inadequate nutrition, underlying disease or oral trauma. It is important to know thatplaque build-up is one of the main causes of gingivitis. It is due to an excessive presence of bacteria, proteins and food debris that form plaque on the teeth. If it is not removed regularly by brushing or professional cleaning by a veterinarian, it can calcify and turn into tartar. The gums are then damaged and become inflamed.

Thus, diet can play an important role in the development of gingivitis in cats. If it is inadequate, especially if it is too rich in carbohydrates, it can promote the accumulation of dental plaque and the growth of bacteria that cause gingivitis. It is therefore important to choose a diet adapted to your cat's needs, rich in proteins and essential nutrients. In addition, it is important to note that eating foods that are too hard or too dry can also contribute to gum irritation. Therefore, it is recommended that cats that are susceptible to gingivitis also be fed a moist diet, such as mash. Finally, it is important to remember that the amount of food given to your cat should be monitored and regulated to avoid excessive weight gain, which would be an additional risk factor.

For some cats, underlying diseases, such as diabetes, may also increase the risk of developing this inflammation. Finally, if your cat has suffered oral trauma, such as a bite or blow to the gums, you'll need to ensure that bacteria don't proliferate there through proper care.

How to spot the symptoms of gingivitis?

The most common symptom of gingivitis in cats is inflammation of the gums. You can spot this inflammation when the gums become red, swollen and sensitive. They can then bleed easily when brushing teeth or chewing food. Similarly, a cat with gingivitis may have bad breath and excessive salivation. If the disease progresses, it can even lead to tooth loss and mouth ulcers.

On the other hand, lethargy or weight loss are possible symptoms of gingivitis. Indeed, the pain often prevents the feline from eating properly. However, a return to normal eating habits must be done as soon as possible in order to avoid causing other health problems for your pet.

How to treat gingivitis in cats?

If you suspect that your cat or kitten has gingivitis, your first instinct should be to call your veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis. After his examination, he will be able to guide you and prescribe the most appropriate treatment for the form of gingivitis your little friend is suffering from.

The treatment of gingivitis thus depends on the severity of the disease. If detected early, it can be treated with good dental hygiene, including regular brushing or cleaning by your veterinarian. If gingivitis is caused by an underlying disease such as diabetes, treatment of the disease can help prevent the recurrence of gingivitis.

In all cases, professional dental cleaning will be an important step in the treatment of gingivitis. This may include scaling, polishing and root canal therapy. In addition, a proper diet will be implemented to prevent and help reduce plaque and tartar.

Conventional drug treatments most often include antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs to treat the bacterial infection and reduce pain. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged or infected teeth.

Our tips for preventing gingivitis

In short, gingivitis is a common disease in cats that can be prevented by taking good care of your feline's oral hygiene. The signs can be subtle, so it's important to regularly monitor the condition of gums and teeth. If you notice any signs of gingivitis, consult your vet immediately for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. By taking preventive action (see DentiCat), you can help your cat maintain good oral health and healthy teeth throughout its life.

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Chinese medicine is a health care method that has been around for over 5000 years. It is based on a deep understanding of the relationship between body, mind and environment. According to its precepts, health is the result of the balance between the opposing forces of yin and yang, and the free flow of vital energy, called Qi, through the meridians of the body. Moreover, each organ is linked to an organic and a psychic function. This traditional method can also be applied to our animals. Horses, dogs, cats, in this article, Lore & Science explains how Chinese medicine can help you better understand your pet's health.

Vital organs in Chinese medicine for horses, dogs and cats

In horses, dogs and cats, the vital organs are the same as in humans: the liver, the heart, the "digestive system"(spleen and pancreas), the lungs and the kidneys. We decipher for you the roles of the different organs and their impact on the body of our pets according to Chinese medicine.

The liver, "general" of the animal body

According to the principles of Chinese medicine, the liver is considered the "general" of the body in horses, dogs and cats. This major organ has a great influence on the animal's blood circulation, digestion and mood. In fact, the liver regulates the free flow of energy throughout the body, which allows for optimal distribution of nutrients and oxygen. In addition, a healthy liver can help regulate the animal's metabolism, nervous system and immune system. However, if it is unbalanced or weakened, the animal may suffer from digestive disorders, colic, or even depression. These symptoms can greatly affect the animal's quality of life and make treatment difficult.

To maintain the health of your pet's liver, it is important to feed your pet a balanced and healthy diet with foods rich in antioxidants. In addition, it is important to protect your pet from excess toxins and medications, as these substances can affect liver function and cause liver damage.

The heart, responsible for emotions in Chinese medicine

The heart, in animals as in humans, is the organ that controls blood circulation. According to Chinese medicine, it is also responsible for emotions and feelings. If the heart is healthy, your dog, cat or horse will be happy, full of energy and have good blood circulation. However, if the heart is weak, your pet may suffer from fatigue, loss of appetite, coughing and other heart problems.

To maintain your pet's heart health, it is once again important to give him a balanced diet, but also to exercise him regularly and to avoid excessive stress.

The lungs, in control of breathing, skin and hair

According to the principles of Chinese medicine, the lungs are considered one of the most important organs of the animal body. They are responsible for breathing, of course, but also foroxygenating the blood andeliminating waste. In addition, they play a crucial role in regulating the skin and hair of our companions. Healthy lungs contribute to regular breathing and a beautiful coat. However, if this vital organ is weakened, the animal can suffer from coughing,shortness of breath, bronchitis,allergies and skin problems.

To maintain lung health in your dog, cat or horse, it is still essential to provide a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support lung function. Avoid processed and industrial foods loaded with chemical additives and saturated fats, which can contribute to lung inflammation and cause respiratory disease. Finally, protect your pet from cigarette smoke, air pollution and other irritants.

The kidneys, organ of vital energy

The kidneys are responsible for the filtration of toxins in the body. According to Chinese medicine, they are the most important organ for the production and storage of vital energy, or "Qi". They are also responsible for growth, reproduction and aging. If the kidneys are healthy, the animal will have strong bones, good general energy and good teeth. However, if they are weakened, the pet may suffer from urinary problems, fatigue, weakness, joint pain and bone problems. To maintain your pet's kidney health, keep it hydrated by providing enough fresh water.

The digestive system of animals in Chinese medicine: pancreas and spleen

The pancreas and spleen, also known as the digestive system, are vital organs responsible for digestion and food processing. According to Chinese medicine, they also play an important role in theproduction of vital energy and the regulation of blood. When the pancreas and spleen are healthy, the animal has efficient digestion, high energy and good blood circulation. On the other hand, an imbalance of the pancreas and spleen can cause digestive problems, fatigue and circulation problems.

Treating your pet according to Chinese medicine

According to Chinese medicine, the organs are in charge of the health of our animals. So, to take care of their health and balance, here are some general recommendations that you can implement on a daily basis, whether you are the proud owner of a dog, a cat or even a horse.

First of all, it is essential to give your pet a balanced, quality diet that promotes the health of all organs. It is also recommended that you feed your pet according to its temperament and health status, as some foods may be more beneficial to some animals than others. In addition to food, avoid toxins, chemicals and pollutants. You can also regularly offer your pet a detoxification or drainage treatment to support its immune system.

Another point is to keep your pet as free as possible from excessive stress, which can cause damage to its organs, especially the liver and kidneys. It is important to minimize his daily stress by providing a stable and calm environment.

Combine these recommendations with regular exercise. In general, exercise is good for your pet's health, including the health of its organs. According to Chinese medicine, it helps improve the flow of energy and blood in the body.

In short, Chinese medicine can offer new and interesting perspectives on pet health and wellness. By understanding the connections between the organs and the different aspects of your pet's life, you can help maintain its overall health and prevent disease.

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The immune system: 2 major types of functioning.

The first is the action of the innate (non-programmed) immune system, which fights all types of infection without distinction.
This is a set of defensive elements against infectious agents or foreign bodies.
It is active throughout the body, including in the joints, playing a major role in septic arthrosis in horses.

The second is theadaptive immune action that fights only one kind of bacteria or virus. This is what vaccination offers, for example.

At the joint level, the innate immune system acts as follows:

When joints become infected, certain immune system cells take action.
Lymphocytes, monocytes (dendritic cells) and granulocytes emerge from blood vessels. They head for the joint cavity to combat dangerous pathogens.

The different types of joint infections

In the majority of cases of arthritis in horses, the pathogens found are:
- Bacteria, such as Staphylococcus or Streptococcus.
- Fungi and fungal infections, which are much rarer.

Bacteria, fungi or viruses that invade the joints are already in another part of the body.

These infectious agents migrate into the joints, particularly from the intestine, via the bloodstream. This is called intestinal translocation.

When the intestine is weakened, the intestinal flora of the horse becomes pathogenic, abnormally loaded with bad bacteria. The intestine becomes permeable and allows infectious agents that should normally be controlled and eliminated to enter the bloodstream.

The immune system comes to defend the joints.

In the presence of infectious agents, the immune system intervenes to destroy the elements it has identified as being harmful to joint health.

However, for reasons we don't necessarily recognize, this same immune system, our first ally in health, turns into an enemy.
It goes into overdrive and starts attacking the whole joint, cartilage and bone alike, and not just the bacteria, viruses and fungi lodged there.

This is called autoimmunearthritis or osteoarthritis.

The reasons for these excessive reactions of an overactive immune system are not well known, but they do point to a possible treatment pathway to stop certain types of degenerative arthritis.

How to help a horse with osteoarthritis

It is important to address the health of the horse's gut early on and to understand what is deteriorating its gut flora and intestinal lining.

The use of prebiotics and probiotics is recommended to reconstitute the horse's saprophytic flora.

At the same time, it is necessary to help the intestine to rebuild itself, which will require the use ofamino acids and in particular L-Glutamine.

To help the horse's immune system and reduce joint inflammation.

A horse suffering from osteoarthritis is in pain. It is therefore necessary to reduce joint inflammation to relieve it.
This is what cortisone, prescribed by your veterinarian, does, for example, by reducing inflammation and lowering immune activity.

You can also choose natural care solutions by using food supplements containing plants with anti-inflammatory properties. For example blackcurrant, ulmar or harpagophytum.

Concerning the immunity of the horse, several plants are active

Immunity is a key!

It's rare to have inflammation without infection, and even rarer to have infection without inflammation!
Strengthening your horse's natural defenses and its intestinal flora remain the essential actions. For health prevention and, above all, on the road to recovery!

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Worms in cats are a common parasitic infestation that can have serious consequences on your pet's health. Our feline friends are confronted with them most of the time in their environment or their food. Lore & Science tells you everything you need to know about worms in cats to help you keep your pet healthy.

The different types of worms in cats

There are several types of worms that can infect cats. First of all, roundworms, which are also called roundworms. These are the most common type of worm in cats. They are thin and long, and measure about 10 centimeters in length. Cats can get them by eating raw meat or infected rodents. Common symptoms to identify them include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, coughing and general weakness.

Another example is tapeworms, also known as tapeworms. These are parasites that look like flat ribbons, usually found in cats that hunt and eat infected rodents or are infected by fleas. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and anal itching.

The third most common type of worms are heartworms. These are transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause severe damage to the cat's vital organs. Coughing, difficult breathing, weight loss and general weakness are all symptoms of the infected animal.

Cats can also be infected with other types of worms, such as lungworms, also called pulmonary metazoa. Felines get them by inhaling worm eggs or by eating infected prey. Eye worms are often transmitted by flies or mosquitoes. Finally, intestinal worms are found in the small intestine and can be transmitted by ingesting contaminated food, infected prey or by contact with feces.

Where do worms come from in cats?

As you can see, worms in cats most often come from their environment or fromingesting infected food. Cats that hunt or have access to the outdoors are more likely to be exposed than those that live indoors. Note that fleas can also play a role in the transmission of tapeworms.

How to know if a cat has worms?

First of all, it is important to note that the signs of a worm infestation can vary depending on the type of worm and the severity of the infestation. This can make it difficult to detect as symptoms may be mild or absent. However, if you are vigilant, you may be able to spot changes in appearance or behavior that are telling. More obvious signals, such as vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss, may appear. Loss of appetite may also be noticed, as worms can cause abdominal pain and make food less appealing to your cat.

In addition, changes in the texture and color of the stool are also a consideration. The stool may become soft, greasy or have blood spots. Similarly, if the coat becomes dull and matted, it may be due to a lack of nutrients caused by infestation. In general, fatigue and anemia can also be symptoms, as parasites weaken the immune system and drain your cat's resources.

In the case of heartworm infestation, symptoms may be more specific. Your cat may have persistent coughing, labored breathing and loss of energy. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately as such an infestation can be fatal if not treated promptly.

It is important to note that some cats may not show any symptoms that would indicate the presence of parasites. However, even in this case, regular screening and a deworming schedulerecommended by your veterinarian is essential for prevention.

How to treat a worm infestation?

If you suspect that your cat has worms, the first step is to consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Treatment will depend on the type of worms your cat has, as well as the severity of the infestation.

How to prevent worms in cats and kittens?

Prevention is probably the best way to protect your pet from worms. This starts with regular deworming. Your veterinarian will be able to recommend the appropriate frequency based on your pet's age, health and lifestyle. In general, adult cats should be dewormed every three to six months to maintain good intestinal health.

Also, avoid having your cat eat raw or undercooked meat on a daily basis. These can contain parasites such as roundworms and tapeworms. If you make homemade food for your pet, be sure to cook the meat thoroughly before feeding it.

Finally, it's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle by regularly cleaning your cat's litter box and keeping your home clean. Worms can hide in dirty areas, and your cat's feces can also spread parasites. So it's important to clean your cat's litter box every day and disinfect the surrounding area regularly.

In summary, worms in cats are a common reality, but with proper care, treatment and prevention, you can help protect your feline from potential infestations. If you suspect your cat is infested, it's important to consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Finally, good general hygiene and attention to diet will help protect your pet on a daily basis.

Questions about worms in cats? Ask us in the comments.