Some of the common dog medical conditions we encounter can include:

Heartworm is a potentially deadly parasite that is transmitted by mosquitos, which pick up larval heartworms, called microfilaria, circulating in the bloodstream of infected animals. There are treatments available for dogs, but prevention is the wisest approach to dealing with heartworms.

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious viral disease of dogs that commonly causes acute gastrointestinal illness in unvaccinated puppies. Fortunately, “parvo” is preventable with proper vaccination.

Worms and other intestinal parasites are relatively common in most dogs. There are several different types of parasites that affect domestic dogs; symptoms and treatment depend on the type of parasite.

Some of the common cat medical conditions we encounter can include:

Parasites & other micro-organisms: Most puppies and kittens, as well as outdoor animals have parasites. Unfortunately there is not one medication that will treat for ALL parasites and sometimes parasites can go unnoticed through fecal sample testing. This is why HWM will provide two deworming treatments and receive two negative fecal sample tests prior to going home.* Loose stool is common when being treated for parasites. You want to make sure you follow good litter box hygiene and self-care, as some parasites can be transmitted to humans. Could My Kitten Have Intestinal Parasites?

*Based on adopter’s comfort level, in some cases your cat/kitten can go home while being treated for parasites. We will provide further instructions to you to ensure your pet is negative for parasites. You will receive information from your pet’s foster parent regarding viral screening your kitten (adult cats will be tested prior to going home). This viral screen will check your kitten for these most common viruses.

Viral Testing: You will receive information from your pet’s foster parent regarding viral screening your kitten (adult cats will be tested prior to going home). This viral screen will check your kitten for these most common viruses.

Feline Leukemia (FeIV) is one of the most commonly diagnosed causes of disease and death in domestic cats. Feline Leukemia weakens an animal’s immune system and predisposes cats to a variety of infections and diseases, including anemia, kidney disease and lymphosarcoma, a highly malignant and fatal cancer of the lymph system. Young kittens and cats less than one year of age are most susceptible to the virus. Cats living with an infected cat, allowed outdoors where they may be bitten by an infected cat, and kittens born to a mother who is FeLV positive are most at risk for infection. Sadly it is estimated that less than 20% of infected cats survive more than three years of active FelV infection.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV or Feline Aids): Although the virus is slow-acting, a cat’s immune system is severely weakened once the disease takes hold. This makes the cat susceptible to various secondary infections. Infected cats receiving supportive medical care and kept in a stress-free, indoor environment can live relatively comfortable lives for months to years before the disease reaches its chronic stages. FIV is mainly transmitted from cat to cat through bite wounds and pregnancy. Humans cannot contract Feline Aids.

Any tips on litter box training for cats?

Going to the litter box doesn’t always come natural. It is suggested you keep your new kitten/cat in the same room as its litter box for at least a couple days or until you see he/she is using the box consistently. If you have more than one cat in your household, it is suggested you have one more litter box than you do cats. For example if you own two cats, you should have three boxes in the home. Other great tips for litter box training.

Scratching & how to cut your cat's nails

Scratching is a natural feline instinctive behavior. Unfortunately your new fur baby doesn’t understand why he/she shouldn’t test out those sharp claws on your brand new chair. In the 1970’s, “Declawing” became popular. This is a procedure that involves surgical amputation of your cat’s third knuckle. Not only does this affect your cat’s natural instincts but it also can lead to medical and behavioral problems later in life. Currently there is a state-wide ban of declaw surgeries in several states. HWM does not support declawing your cat. Instead there are several easy options to keep your furniture intact.

Why you should feed your cat (especially males) wet cat food

The main reason cats benefit from eating a diet primarily of wet food is hydration. Historically, cats come from the desert and their kidneys are designed to concentrate their urine during times of low water availability. Now that cats have become domesticated, there is no need to put their kidneys through that additional stress. Cats, especially males, with low hydration are at risk for developing bladder disease, urethral obstruction, kidney disease, and bladder stones/crystals. Feeding a diet primarily of wet food can help avoid these issues by providing additional moisture, while also providing life-saving health benefits. Dry vs. wet food.