Category Archives: Pet Health

Best Joint Supplements for Senior Cats

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Joint pain is often caused by bone-on-bone wear and tear to a joint. If the fluid and cushion between joints has worn, and bone is rubbing on bone, this can cause joint pain in your senior cat. Once the cushioning is worn, there is very little that can be done to restore the cushioning. Some pet medications and joint supplements can alleviate the symptoms of joint pain and arthritis in senior cats, but there is no medication or supplement that can fully restore the cushion. Pain management is typically the course of treatment your vet may prescribe for your senior pet.  

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, supplements are not recommended for your senior pet unless specifically prescribed by your veterinarian. If your pet is eating a complete and balanced commercially available pet food, supplementation may not be necessary. 

That being said, if your senior pet suffers with joint pain or arthritis, supplements that are prescribed by your vet may be helpful in decreasing your pet’s discomfort and increase their joint mobility.

It is vitally important that you discuss any pain management and treatment with your vet. Supplements are not regulated and may contain ingredients that can potentially be harmful to your pet, especially if they are taken in conjunction with other medications.

Also, supplements do not provide instant results. Oftentimes, supplements can take up to 4-6 weeks before your pet exhibits relief. If your cat is in pain or showing signs of distress, she should be seen by her vet immediately. Your vet may prescribe an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) and your vet may also recommend a joint supplement. Keep in mind, NSAID’s that would be prescribed for a cat are NOT the same as an NSAID that would be prescribed for a human, and some of these drugs (including ibuprofen and acetaminophen) can be toxic for pets. 

If your vet has authorized the use of joint supplements for your senior pet, there are several that may be helpful to your pet. Some studies suggest that Glucosamine and Chondroitin may help alleviate joint pain symptoms and it is very likely if your vet suggests a supplement, that it may contain one or both of these ingredients, depending on your pet’s unique situation. 

Joint supplements for cats typically come in a pill, sprinkles or chewable form. Below are a few supplements that are highly rated. Before purchasing any pet supplements, please discuss them with your vet. 

Top Rated Joint Supplements

Nutramax Cosequin Capsules, 80 Count

 

  • Cosequin for Cats is a nutritional supplement to help your pet maintain healthy joints. As your pet ages, it’s common for his joints to become less flexible, which impacts his mobility and quality of life. Cosequin is the top recommended brand of veterinarians to support and maintain the health of your cat’s joints. The only joint health supplement brand that has been shown safe, effective, and bioavailable in peer-reviewed, published, controlled, U.S. veterinary studies, Cosequin for Cats helps support cartilage production and protect existing cartilage from breakdown. It’s manufactured following standards similar to those practiced by the pharmaceutical industry. It’s also recommended to help support urinary bladder health. It contains tasty natural chicken- and tuna-flavored capsules specially formulated for cats. Each capsule contains at least 125 milligrams of Glucosamine Hydrochloride, 100 milligrams of Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate, and 1 milligram of Manganese. Please read all label information on delivery. 

 

Runner Up

Nutramax 60 Count Cosequin Capsules for Cats Soft Chews

Cosequin for Cats Soft Chews 60ct is a joint health support for cats in a soft chew with Omega-3s. Now you have two choices, sprinkle capsules and the NEW soft chew. This soft chew provides a tasty alternative to the sprinkle capsules. Cosequin for Cats Soft Chews may also support bladder health for your cat. Made from the highest quality ingredients and manufactured under strict quality standards, Cosequin is the #1 Vet recommended retail joint health supplement brand.

Best Value

Nutramax CQCAT30 30 Count Capsule Cosequin for Cats

Cosequin Sprinkle Capsules is a nutritional supplement that maintains healthy joints in cats. If you have a large breed cat or a cat that is heavy for their size, then your feline by at risk for developing arthritis. Cats that frequent lick their limbs or that avoid jumping and running may already be suffering from joint pain. Cosequin for Cats Sprinkle Capsules combine two proprietary formulations of the components naturally used to reconstruct and repair joint cartilage and joint lubricating synovial fluid. This container comes with 30 sprinkle capsules that can be easily mixed into cat food without upsetting even the most finicky of felines. Provide your cat with the number one veterinarian recommended brand of joint care and order a package of Cosequin today Key Features: Supports healthy joints to help cats jump, pounce and play #1 veterinarian recommended brand Contains 30 sprinkle capsules to be used on wet or dry food

Some joint supplements can cause diarrhea and vomiting. Be sure to read the ingredients and discuss any supplements with your vet before purchasing, especially if your pet has allergies or if your pet is taking any other medications. 

Best Joint Supplements for Senior Dogs

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Joint pain is often caused by bone-on-bone wear and tear to a joint. If the fluid and cushion between joints has worn, and bone is rubbing on bone, this can cause joint pain in your senior pet. Once the cushioning is worn, there is very little that can be done to restore the cushioning. Some pet medications and joint supplements can alleviate the symptoms of joint pain and arthritis in senior dogs, but there is no medication or supplement that can fully restore the cushion. Pain management is typically the course of treatment your vet may prescribe for your senior pet.  

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, supplements are not recommended for your senior pet unless specifically prescribed by your veterinarian. If your pet is eating a complete and balanced commercially available pet food, supplementation may not be necessary. 

That being said, if your senior pet suffers with joint pain or arthritis, supplements that are prescribed by your vet may be helpful in decreasing your pet’s discomfort and increase their joint mobility.

It is vitally important that you discuss any pain management and treatment with your vet. Supplements are not regulated and may contain ingredients that can potentially be harmful to your pet, especially if they are taken in conjunction with other medications.

Also, supplements do not provide instant results. Oftentimes, supplements can take up to 4-6 weeks before your pet exhibits relief. If your dog is in pain or showing signs of distress, he should be seen by his vet immediately. Your vet may prescribe an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) and your vet may also recommend a joint supplement. Keep in mind, NSAID’s that would be prescribed for a dog are NOT the same as an NSAID that would be prescribed for a human, and some of these drugs (including ibuprofen and acetaminophen) can be toxic for pets. 

If your vet has authorized the use of joint supplements for your senior pet, there are several that may be helpful to your pet. Some studies suggest that Glucosamine and Chondroitin may help alleviate joint pain symptoms and it is very likely if your vet suggests a supplement, that it may contain one or both of these ingredients, depending on your pet’s unique situation. 

Joint supplements typically come in a pill or chewable tablet form. Below are a few supplements that are highly rated. Before purchasing any pet supplements, please discuss them with your vet. 

Top Rated Joint Supplements

Cosequin Plus MSM Chewable Tablets, 60ct

 

  • COSEQUIN is the #1 veterinarian recommended retail joint health supplement brand and has scientifically researched ingredients
  • Your veterinarian may suggest COSEQUIN supplements if your dog is having difficulties climbing stairs, jumping into the car, or going for walks
  • COSEQUIN supplements are formulated to meet a variety of needs.Formulated to contain 40 mg of a proprietary blend of marine lipids, a source of Omega-3 fatty acids
  • COSEQUIN for dogs is available in a tasty chicken flavored chewable tablet to help your dog maintain healthy joints and support joint mobility
  • Manufactured in the United States with globally sourced ingredients, COSEQUIN is a high quality, dog joint supplement, and is excellent for long-term use and maintenance

 

 

Runner Up

Doggie Dailies Glucosamine for Dogs, 225 Soft Chews, Advanced Hip and Joint Supplement for Dogs with Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, Hyaluronic Acid and CoQ10, Premium Dog Glucosamine Made in The USA

 

  • Ingredients You Can Trust, Taste Your Dog Will Love: We’ve carefully crafted a healthy and delicious joint supplement for dogs that helps provide vital vitamins, minerals, essential enzymes, and nutrients your dog needs for natural energy and strength; Our chicken flavored hip and joint dog treats are easy to give and so delicious your dog will be begging for more
  • Powerful Blend of Ingredients Known to Support Dog Joint Health, Improve Mobility, and Ease Discomfort: Improving your dog’s joint health is important, our soft dog treats make that easy; Every soft chew is loaded with Glucosamine HCl, Chondroitin, MSM, Yucca Schidigera, CoQ10 (coenzyme q10), and Hyaluronic Acid (HA); Plus Omega 3 & 6, Vitamin C & E, and Salmon Oil & Cod Liver Oil for skin and coat health
  • Help Put The Pep Back In Your Pup’s Step With A Tasty Chicken Treat They’ll Love: Doggie Dailies offers safe and effective hip and joint chews for dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes; Our formula may help reduce inflammation, lubricate joints, and repair cartilage; A daily dose of our dog glucosamine can help increase your pup’s energy levels and improve their mobility and overall joint health
  • More Than Just Glucosamine and Chondroitin for Dogs: Every delicious chicken flavored soft chew contains the perfect balance of six powerful active ingredients that work together to cushion and protect your dog’s joints; Our advanced glucosamine for dogs is made by using cold-press extrusion which helps preserve the integrity of the ingredients to ensure maximum potency for your pup
  • Our Dog Supplements are Made in the USA in an FDA Registered Facility Using Strict Quality & Safety Standards: Our facility is GMP compliant and Level 3 SQF certified; Every batch of Doggie Dailies is tested by an independent lab; Order our glucosamine for dogs today and see for yourself why thousands of dog owners trust us with their pup’s wellness needs

 

 

Best Value

PetNC Natural Care Hip and Joint Soft Chews for Dogs, 90 Count
  • Support for healthy hips and joints
  • Savory flavored easy to give chewable for finicky eaters
  • Human-grade ingredients
  • Laboratory tested, veterinarian formulated
  • Made in the USA

Some joint supplements can cause diarrhea and vomiting. Be sure to read the ingredients and discuss any supplements with your vet before purchasing, especially if your pet has allergies or if your pet is taking any other medications. 

Review: CanadaVet Dog & Cat Medication and Supplies

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CanadaVet sells high-quality cat, dog, and other pet medication and supplies that are vetted by fully qualified, licensed, practicing veterinary surgeons to ensure all the products sold are the best available for your furry little friend. By being based outside the USA, CanadaVet offers terrific price savings to customers in the USA and the rest of the world while still ensuring first-class reliability and customer service. Below are some examples of prices they offer for dog and cat supplies, like flea and tick prevention, heartwormers, arthritis and joint care, dental care, grooming supplies, digestive aids, shampoo and washes, and much more.

 

CanadaVet’s unique selling proposition for American customers is that the heartworm protection and multi-parasite protection products are sourced and shipped from outside the USA, so no prescription is required to order them. Exactly the same products made in exactly the same factories, but no Rx needed. This means you can save money on products like Revolution, Advocate (aka Advantage Multi) and Heartguard. 

Below are just a few of the pet supplies they offer at great prices*. 

 

$45.84
$40.05 for 6 chews
$15.69 for 90 tablets
$17.65 fir 120 ml
$44.13 for 3 pipettes
$8.95 for 71g
$49.12 for 3 pipettes
$22.35 for 120 tablets

CanadaVet offers flat rate shipping of just $5.95 on all orders, with free shipping on orders over $88. 

All products sold by CanadaVet are selected by qualified, licensed veterinarians to ensure that they are safe products from reputable companies we trust. They promise they wouldn’t sell anything that they wouldn’t use on their own animals.

All products sold by CanadaVet are new, and have the longest expiry date available. Products which they sell are manufactured in the same factories, with the same ingredients as those sold under the same name in the USA and Canada. To keep costs low, products are sourced from all over the world including Australia, England, Canada and South Africa. This means that the packaging may be slightly different to that available in stores in North America. For example, weights and measurements may be in metric. However all instructions for use and safety notices are written in English and all products are sourced from authorized dealers holding all necessary licenses and certifications in their home country.

*Prices subject to change without notice and are listed for display purposes only. 

Should you make a purchase at CanadaVet, a portion of the sale will benefit the Elderly Pet Organization. We appreciate your support!

Best Flea & Tick Protection for Senior Pets

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According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, fleas and ticks are not just a nuisance, but pose animal and human health risks. They suck your pet’s blood, they suck human blood, and can transmit diseases. Some of the diseases that fleas and ticks can transmit from animals to humans (zoonotic diseases) include plague, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, bartonellosis and others. That’s why it’s critical to protect your pets from these pesky parasites and keep the creepy crawlies out of your home.

Fortunately, there are many effective flea and tick preventives on the market to help control the pests and prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases. Knowing what kind of product to use, and how to use it, is critical to the health and safety of your pet. Many are spot-on (topical) products that are applied directly to your pet’s skin, but there are some that are given orally (by mouth). Although medicines and pesticides must meet U.S. government-required safety standards before they can be sold, it is still critical that pet owners carefully consider their flea and tick preventive options (and closely read the label) before they treat their pets with one of these products.

Ask your veterinarian

Consult your veterinarian about your options and what’s best for your pet. Some questions you can ask include:

  • What parasites does this product protect against?
  • How often should I use/apply the product?
  • How long will it take for the product to work?
  • If I see a flea or tick, does that mean it’s not working?
  • What should I do if my pet has a reaction to the product?
  • Is there a need for more than one product?
  • How would I apply or use multiple products on my pet?

Parasite protection is not “one-size-fits-all.” Certain factors affect the type and dose of the product that can be used, including the age, species, breed, life style and health status of your pet, as well as any medications your pet is receiving. Caution is advised when considering flea/tick treatment of very young and very old pets. Use a flea comb on puppies and kittens that are too young for flea/tick products. Some products should not be used on very old pets. Some breeds are sensitive to certain ingredients that can make them extremely ill. Flea and tick preventives and some medications can interfere with each other, resulting in unwanted side effects, toxicities, or even ineffective doses; it’s important that your veterinarian is aware of all of your pet’s medications when considering the optimal flea and tick preventive for your pet.

How to protect pets

To keep your pets safe, we recommend the following:

  • Discuss the use of preventive products, including over-the-counter products, with your veterinarian to determine the safest and most effective choice for each pet.
  • Always talk to your veterinarian before applying any spot-on products, especially if your dog or cat is very young, old, pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
  • Only purchase EPA-registered pesticides or FDA-approved medicines.
  • Read the entire label before you use/apply the product.
  • Always follow label directions! Apply or give the product as and when directed. Never apply more or less than the recommended dose.
  • Cats are not small dogs. Products labeled for use only for dogs should only be used for dogs, and never for cats. Never.
  • Make sure that the weight range listed on the label is correct for your pet because weight matters. Giving a smaller dog a dose designed for a larger dog could harm the pet.

One pet may react differently to a product than another pet. When using these products, monitor your pet for any signs of an adverse reaction, including anxiousness, excessive itching or scratching, skin redness or swelling, vomiting, or any abnormal behavior. If you see any of these signs, contact your veterinarian. And most importantly, report these incidents to your veterinarian and the manufacturer of the product so adverse event reports can be filed.

Be aware that certain flea and tick preventives are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), while others are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It can seem confusing at first to figure out which agency regulates the product you’re using, but it’s actually pretty straightforward: if the product is regulated by the EPA, there’s an EPA number clearly listed on the package. If it’s regulated by the FDA, there should be a NADA or ANADA number clearly listed on the package. Check the label for either an EPA or an FDA approval statement and number. If you see neither, check with your veterinarian before purchasing and especially before using the product.

Below are some highly rated, popular flea and tick preparations for senior pets.

Cat Flea & Tick Collars

Bayer Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Cat, all weights, 2 Pack

Cat Flea & Tick Topical

Advantage 2 flea control for cats and kittens over 9 lbs 4 month supply

Extra Large Dog Flea & Tick Topical

Frontline Plus for Dogs Extra Large Dog (89 to 132 pounds) Flea and Tick Treatment, 6 Doses

Large Dog Flea & Tick Topical

Frontline Plus for Dogs Large Dog (45 to 88 pounds) Flea and Tick Treatment, 6 Doses

Medium Dog Flea & Tick Topical

Frontline Plus for Dogs Medium Dog (23-44 pounds) Flea and Tick Treatment, 6 Doses

Small Dog Flea & Tick Topical

Frontline Plus for Dogs Small Dog (5-22 pounds) Flea and Tick Treatment, 6 Doses

Dog Flea & Tick Collars

Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs, 8-Month Tick and Flea Control for Dogs Over 18 lbs. 2-Pack
Seresto Flea and Tick Collar For Dogs Small Under 18lbs (2-Pack)

Flea & Tick Shampoo for Dogs & Cats

Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor 12oz
  • Effectively kills fleas, ticks, flea eggs, flea larvae and lice.
  • Sensitive skin formula with  soothing aloe, lanolin, coconut extract, and oatmeal
  • Contains an insect growth regulator (IGR) to kill and prevent flea development for up to 28 days
  • Safe for use on all dogs, cats, puppies and kittens 12-weeks and older
  • Pleasant, fresh scent               

Treadmills for Senior Dogs

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According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, a small dog is considered senior at age 7, larger dogs are considered seniors at age 6. Senior pets need regular exercise not only to stay healthy and at a healthy weight, but also to keep senior pets from developing health problems like arthritis and hip dysplasia. Treadmills designed specifically for pets are a great tool for senior dogs because regular exercise can help stave off several health conditions that are common in senior dogs, like diabetes, heart disease, increased blood pressure, difficulty breathing, decreased liver function, digestive problems and heat intolerance. 

Although regular outdoor exercise is preferred to indoor treadmill use, a dog treadmill can be a great supplement to exercising your dog especially when weather conditions may preclude you from taking your furry friend outside. 

Some dogs can use human treadmills, but it is safer and more ideal to use a treadmill that is specifically designed for pets. There are built in safety features that are designed specifically for dogs. Some include side rails or fences attached to help keep your pet on the machine. Dog treadmills also have a special belt that will prevent your pet from getting his paws or nails caught. 

A key consideration when selecting a treadmill for your dog is that it should be long enough to accommodate your dog. Larger breed dogs will require a larger treadmill and the belt should be as long as the length of your dog’s back while in the down position. 

Before you can successfully walk your dog on a treadmill, it is important that you train the dog how to use it properly. Desensitizing your dog starts will getting him comfortable just being on the machine when it is not in motion. Then once they are used to getting on and off the machine when it is not running, then slowly acclimate your dog to the machine while it is running. Have him get on the treadmill and turn it on to the lowest possible setting and speed. Treats can be used to help guide your pet to walking on the treadmill. Slowly increase the speed until your dog is walking at a steady pace. 

The first few times you use a dog treadmill, do so for just a few minutes at a time. Be sure to offer plenty of treats to reward your dog for a job well done. You should always stay with your dog while they are on the treadmill and closely monitor your senior pet for any signs of distress, such as panting, lagging or if he appears tired – stop the treadmill and let him get off.

Never leave your dog unattended on a treadmill and you should not tether your dog to the treadmill; always hang on to his leash so you can have more control or let go if need be.  

If you are in the market for a dog treadmill, we’ve compiled a list of several worth considering. Should you order anything from our website, a portion of the sale will benefit the Elderly Pet Organization. 

Treadmills for Large Dogs

dogPACER LF 3.1 Folding Fitness Dog Treadmill For Dogs Up to 179 lbs by dogPACER

The dogPACER’s onboard computer has preset exercise programs built in for your dog or you can create your own programs to suit your pet’s training needs. The LF 3.1 is also very safe and stable. The side panels help minimize distractions while exercising and their break-away steel design was made with safety in mind should the dog slip or fall.

GoPet PetRun PR725 Encloseable Treadmill for Large Dogs up to 176 pounds. 

Dog treadmills are a way for owners to provide their dog with exercise even when the weather is bad or it is inconvenient to go out for a walk. 

 

The PR725 features an Air Step Incline system so you and increase or decrease the incline to change the run’s difficulty. A metal enclosure acts as a visual cue to help your dog run straight, and also helps to keep your dog from falling off of the sides of the treadmill. This dog treadmill is designed for the largest dog breeds and is perfect for owners who do not have the running space these dogs require. This is particularly valuable for large dogs living in apartments or in geographies with rainy or cold weather.

Treadmills for Small Dogs

Dogpacer Minipacer Folding Fitness Treadmill for Dogs up to 55 pounds.

 

The dogPACER™ MiniPacer dog treadmill was designed with careful precision. It can hold small to medium sized dogs from 1 to 55lbs and it has patented folding technology making it extremely light, compact, and portable. The dogPACER’s onboard computer has preset exercise programs built in for your dog or you can create your own programs to suit your pet’s training needs. The LF 3.1 is also very safe and stable. The side panels help minimize distractions while exercising and their break-away steel design was made with safety in mind should the dog slip or fall.

DogTread Premium Small Dog Treadmill

Recommended for dogs up to 30 pounds. 

  • LCD Console – Program Speed, Distance and Time for each workout. Red Safety Start and Stop is easy to identify. Included remote control provides additional training versatility.
  • Recessed Treat Holder – Provides a convenient way to dispense and hold treats during the initial stages of training. NOT FOR WATER, TREATS ONLY.
  • Sturdy, Attractive Dog-Friendly Design – The DogTread is equipped with a whisper-quiet motor and is free of any holes, meshes or seams where a dog might get small paws caught.
  • Natural Running Platform & Manual Incline Options – Low training fence provides a more comfortable and positive experience while the Flip-bar Incline increases training intensity as needed to simulate outdoor terrain.
  • Space-saving Portable Design – Securely rests on its nose for convenient storage. Transportation wheels makes it easy move the DogTread to any location.

You can get some great prices on dog treadmills at Pet Pro Supply, plus for orders over $99 you get FREE shipping.

FREE Shipping on Orders over $99!