Pet care

As predators, cats are naturally curious and inclined to investigate their surroundings, plants included. There are several reasons why a cat might want to eat greenery:

• Instinct

In their natural surroundings, cats not only hunt rodents but also eat plants from time to time, such as grass, herbs and other wild greenery. Grass can aid digestion and help move undigested food residue through the gut. It is worth noting that some cats end up vomiting after eating grass, which is one way of relieving digestive discomfort. Plants may also act as a natural painkiller, which could be one more reason why cats turn to them.

• Sensory stimulation

Some plants have smells and textures that attract cats. Catnip, for instance, contains nepetalactone, a chemical that produces a euphoric, stimulating reaction in cats. Far from being put off, many cats respond enthusiastically, rolling around and playing when catnip is nearby. Other plants, such as cat grass, can also be used by owners as a way of giving their cats pleasure and letting them experiment with different textures.

• Adding variety to the diet

Although cats are primarily meat eaters, some plants can supply nutrients they need. In the wild, cats eat a range of plants to obtain extra vitamins and minerals. Grasses, for example, provide fibre, which helps the digestive system work properly.

• Satisfying the urge to chew

Cats have a natural need to chew and gnaw, and nibbling plants can satisfy it. This kind of behaviour can also be a sign of stress or boredom, which matters particularly for cats living in enclosed spaces. 

Plants that are toxic to cats

Many of the plants we keep in our homes can harm cats. Members of the arum family are particularly dangerous: aglaonema, anthurium, zamioculcas, caladium, monstera and philodendron. Their caustic sap can cause swelling of the larynx and irritation of the lining of the mouth. Peace lily, for instance, looks beautiful but contains substances that can poison a pet that eats it, causing severe pain and burning in the mouth. Dieffenbachia likewise contains toxic acids that can burn the mucous membranes. Other plants such as croton, arum, spurge and poinsettia can provoke serious reactions, including skin inflammation and digestive problems. Grapes, azaleas and lilies are not safe for cats either, as they can lead to swelling of the mouth, loss of coordination and even heart problems.

Plants that are safe for cats

Both indoors and in the garden there are plants that are safe for cats. When choosing them, it is worth going for species that pose no risk to your pet’s health. 

1. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) – hugely popular with cats, catnip is not only safe but also brings many of them delight and euphoria.
2. Cat grass (wheatgrass or oats, for example) – grass is a natural source of fibre that aids digestion and can bring relief when a cat feels uncomfortable after eating.
3. Herbs (basil, mint, parsley and so on) – most herbs, such as basil, mint and parsley, are safe for cats, and some have beneficial properties.
4. Succulents (haworthia, echeveria and similar) – many succulents are safe for cats and make an attractive addition to the home. Certain species can be poisonous, however, so those are best avoided.
5. Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – this houseplant is not only easy to look after but also safe for cats.
6. Rubber plant (Ficus elastica) – popular in homes and safe for cats, although some species of ficus can irritate the skin, so it is worth bearing that in mind.
7. Geranium (Pelargonium spp.) – most species of this houseplant are not toxic to cats and make an attractive decoration.

Signs of plant poisoning in cats

The signs of plant poisoning in cats vary and often depend on which plant was eaten and how much of it. Typical symptoms include vomiting and diarrhoea, which may indicate irritation of the digestive tract. A cat may also drool excessively, have a painful, swollen mouth and struggle to swallow. In more serious cases of poisoning, animals may become listless and weak or behave out of character. Other warning signs are seizures, breathing difficulties and, in extreme cases, loss of consciousness. If you notice any of these signs and suspect your cat has eaten a toxic plant, it is important to contact a veterinarian straight away for help and a diagnosis.

Summary

Toxic plants in the home and garden are a serious threat to cats’ health. Being able to recognise dangerous species and taking steps to create a safe environment is essential. With a little knowledge and care we can protect our furry friends’ health, so that they can live somewhere safe and welcoming.

Exotic animals are becoming ever more popular as companions in our homes. Often seen as a curiosity, they can bring a great deal of pleasure, but keeping them also brings certain challenges.

The legal side of keeping exotic animals

Before deciding to buy an exotic animal, it is important to familiarise yourself with local legislation. Many countries have strict rules on keeping exotic species in order to protect both the animals and the environment. In Poland, for example, certain species of reptile, bird and mammal may be kept, but there are also species that are banned outright or require a special permit.

The legality of the trade in exotic animals matters just as much. Many species available in pet shops may come from illegal trade, which brings further legal consequences for the buyer. It is therefore always worth checking where the animal came from and making sure the seller is operating within the law.

Restrictions on keeping exotic animals in Poland

Poland has rules governing the keeping of exotic animals, and some species may not be kept at all. These include certain venomous snakes such as cobras and rattlesnakes, which pose a potential danger to people and other animals. In addition, many reptiles, among them protected species of tortoise, fall under CITES and national rules that prohibit keeping them without the appropriate permits. Banned mammals include large predators such as lions and tigers, both for safety reasons and to protect these species. Some birds of prey, such as hawks and eagles, are protected too and may not be kept without a permit. Restrictions may also apply to certain exotic fish that could threaten native ecosystems. For all these reasons, before deciding to keep an exotic animal it is worth consulting the local environmental protection or veterinary authorities and checking whether the species in question may legally be kept.

Housing requirements and caring for exotic pets

Every exotic animal has its own particular requirements when it comes to environment, feeding and care. Some snake species, for instance, need a specific temperature and humidity, while others, such as certain birds, need plenty of space to fly and contact with a natural setting. It is essential that a prospective owner looks closely into the needs of their new pet and adapts conditions at home to match them.

It is also worth noting that some exotic animals live considerably longer in captivity than their wild counterparts. That means deciding to keep one is a commitment for many years rather than a passing fashion. Having the right experience and knowledge of how to care for such an animal is crucial to its health and wellbeing.

The health and diet of exotic animals

The diet of exotic animals is often quite unlike what we are used to with more familiar pets such as dogs and cats. Many need specialist food, and sometimes even live prey, which can be both unpleasant and difficult to arrange. An unsuitable diet can also lead to serious health problems, which is why it is important to consult a veterinarian who specialises in exotic animals.

Regular veterinary check-ups are equally important in keeping exotic pets healthy. Many of these animals can carry diseases that are unknown in more common household pets, so it is important to keep up with current health recommendations.

Veterinary care for exotic animals

Exotic animals such as snakes, lizards, tropical birds and even some mammal species need specialist veterinary care that differs considerably from what is available for traditional pets such as dogs and cats. It should be stressed that not every veterinarian has the experience and qualifications needed to diagnose and treat exotic species. Before deciding to buy such an animal, then, it is worth checking carefully whether there are vets in your area who specialise in exotic pets.

Regular check-ups and preventive care

Veterinary care for exotic animals should include regular health checks, which can help identify any problems at an early stage. Many diseases in exotic animals go undetected until the animal is seriously unwell, which is why prevention and early detection are so important.

During a consultation the vet may carry out a range of tests, such as blood work, faecal examination and, if needed, imaging. 

Summary

Keeping exotic animals is a fascinating adventure, but one that calls for a well-considered decision and real commitment. Knowing the law, setting up the right living conditions and having access to qualified veterinary care all make a real difference to the quality of life of our exotic companions. It is worth approaching every stage responsibly and with care, from the purchase through everyday husbandry to regular health checks. That way we not only give our animals better conditions, but also get real pleasure and satisfaction out of the relationship.

Lung cancer is a serious disease that can affect our four-legged friends too. Although it is relatively rare, understanding the condition, its signs and the treatment options available is essential if you want to look after your cat’s health. 

Lung tumours in cats take a number of forms, and they are classified according to the type of cell they arise from. There are two main types: primary tumours, which develop in the lung tissue itself, and secondary tumours, which have spread from elsewhere in the body. The commonest primary tumours are squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and bronchiolar carcinoma. Where the tumour sits varies, and this affects the signs a cat shows. Tumours may lie in the central part of the lungs, near the bronchi, which leads to difficulty breathing and coughing. They may also sit at the periphery of the lungs, which produces different signs such as listlessness or loss of appetite. Wherever they are, lung tumours are a serious threat to health, which is why early detection and diagnosis are so important for effective treatment and a better quality of life for the cat.

Causes of lung tumours

Lung tumours in cats can have a range of causes, both genetic and environmental. 

Among the risk factors most often mentioned is exposure to carcinogens such as tobacco smoke, particularly in cats living in homes where people smoke. Other sources of pollution, such as the chemicals in cleaning products, paints and pesticides, can also increase the risk of tumours developing. Cats exposed to pollen, mould and other airborne irritants may likewise be more prone to lung disease. 

Age matters too: middle-aged and older cats and dogs are more likely to develop most tumours, lung cancer among them. As animals age, the body’s defence mechanisms weaken, which is why tumours become increasingly common in older pets. 

It is also worth noting that some lung tumours arise as secondary growths from cancers elsewhere in the body, which shows how important it is to keep an eye on a cat’s overall health. Genetics plays a part as well, since certain breeds are more predisposed to cancer. Understanding these causes is key to prevention and early detection.

Signs of a lung tumour

Lung cancer in cats can show itself in a variety of ways, depending largely on where the tumour is, how big it is, how fast it is growing and what type it is. Tumours often remain silent for a long time, and the first signs of illness appear only once they begin to press on the airways or block the bronchi. At that point you may see a persistent dry cough, difficulty breathing and breathlessness in cats. In some cases the cat may breathe rapidly or bring up blood.

Alongside these respiratory signs, lung cancer in cats and dogs often causes more general ones. Owners may notice weakness and apathy, as well as weight loss, lethargy and reduced tolerance of exercise. Vomiting and a raised temperature can accompany the disease too, another reason to seek veterinary advice quickly. Understanding these signs is essential for the early diagnosis and effective treatment of lung tumours in our pets.

Diagnosing lung cancer in cats

Diagnosing a lung tumour in a cat usually begins with a detailed history, in which the vet gathers information about the signs, the animal’s medical background and its way of life. A physical examination follows, in which the vet assesses the cat’s general health and listens to the volume and character of the sounds coming from the chest. Chest X-rays are a key diagnostic tool, allowing the state of the lungs to be assessed and any tumours identified. In some cases the vet may request an ultrasound scan or a CT scan for a clearer picture of the changes within the lungs. A biopsy or fine-needle aspiration may also be needed to confirm the presence of cancer cells and establish the type of tumour.

At the Zviropolis veterinary clinic we have an oncology specialist experienced in diagnosing and treating tumours in  our four-legged patients. If you notice anything that worries you, contact a veterinarian without delay. The sooner a tumour is diagnosed, the better the chances of treating it successfully

Treating lung tumours 

Treatment of a lung tumour in a cat depends on many factors, including the type of tumour, where it is and the animal’s general health. For a primary tumour that has not spread, surgery to remove the growth may be the most effective approach. Lung tumours are often detected at a later stage, however, which makes other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy more suitable. Chemotherapy acts on the cancer cells, holding back their growth and development, while radiotherapy helps to shrink the tumour and ease the signs. In advanced disease, where the cat’s general condition has deteriorated considerably, palliative care may be recommended to improve the patient’s quality of life. The decision on the best approach should be made by the veterinarian together with the owner, taking the cat’s needs and comfort into account.

Summary

Lung tumours in cats are a complex subject that calls for attention and an accurate diagnosis. The situation may be worrying, but it is worth remembering that catching the disease early and having access to specialist veterinary care offers a real chance of effective treatment and a better quality of life for our pets. The key is to stay alert to any change in your cat’s behaviour or health and to consult your vet regularly. Working with an experienced veterinarian who knows about cancer will help you understand the treatments being used and ensure the best possible care for your pet. Let us remember that our animals’ health is not only about their wellbeing, but also a source of pleasure for us, the people who look after them.