Cat's Meow

The Cheshire cat explained to Alice in Wonderland "a dog growls when it is angry, and wags its tail when it is pleased. Now, I growl when I am pleased and wag my tail when I am angry. Therefore, I am mad".

All cat owners will be familiar with the warning sign of a swishing tail when "puss" is displeased and the purr of contentment when everything is going puss's way, but there are many other ways in which the cat expresses its emotions or communicates with its owner.

Owners may notice that when the cat is sitting on their lap it slowly blinks and momentarily shuts its eyes. This is a cat's way of saying "I feel safe and I trust you" and has sometimes been described as a "cat kiss". If the owner gives a soft smile and blinks slowly many cats will respond by blinking back. When the cat is in this mood it will often appear mesmerized and knead the owner's lap or arm with its front paws, often with the claws extended which can be quite uncomfortable for the owner. Nonetheless it is a sign of affection and contentment - for the cat!

Cats also pat with their paws. In contrast to the defensive for angry swipe with claws out, the gentle pat with claws retracted is the cat's way of getting attention or inviting play. Many cats will gently tap their sleeping owner's eyelids when the cat believes it is getting up time!

On returning home, the cat owner will be greeted by "meow" which with a little imagination may sound like "hello". This particular meow will be quite distinctive and used only as a greeting. It is quite unlike the "meow" to remind you it is meal time. The cat will also rub around the owner's legs and purr and the tail will be carried flag-like in greeting.

The owner who has upset the cat will also be familiar with the rear view of their departing cat - with its erect tail and stiff legged haughty walk which very clearly demonstrates the distain with which mere humans should be treated!

A cat will also express contempt through grooming. Who hasn't noticed the cat sitting just out of reach of a dog and washing behind its ears with a look of total disinterest.

The cat is a most complex creature which has learnt that there is mutual benefit in living with humans who will provide food and warmth and comfort. In turn, humans gain the benefit of companionship and entertainment from a pet which is quiet, clean and undemanding.

My dog is itchy

Spring and Summer is the time of year when owners might notice their pets starting to scratch. It is very unpleasant to watch our loved ones biting or scratching and chewing at themselves. This constant self-trauma can lead to other problems such as secondary infections and further skin inflammation.

There are many different causes for itchy skin in our pets and your veterinarian can determine what is causing your loved one to scratch.

There are certain parasites which can cause our pets to be itchy, such as fleas and mites. Fleas breed rapidly in summer, so flea allergy problems are worse at this time of year. There are many good preventative treatments on the market. Your vet is able to do a number of small simple tests to check whether your pet has a parasite problem. Some parasites such as fleas can be seen on your pet but others such as mites can only be seen under the microscope.

Certain infections (including bacterial and yeast infections) can also cause your pet to scratch. Your vet can also check for this and treat your animal accordingly.

Similar to humans, pets can suffer from allergies and there are many different things that give your pet an allergic reaction. Dogs and cats can be allergic to foods. By feeding your animal a different type of food (under the guidance of your vet) you may see an improvement. Food allergies are usually due to a particular protein source. Feeding your pet a different type of protein may help to resolve this allergy. There are commercial diets available from your vet specifically made for animals suffering with food allergies. Your vet can advise if your pet should have one of these diets.

Dogs and cats can also be allergic to pollens, dust mites and things in the home such as carpets and certain bedding. Some pets are allergic to flea bite saliva. Your vet can help you to determine what your pet may be allergic to. Some of these things can be controlled by preventative measures, such as flea control and removal of bedding, whereas other triggers such as pollens - that can increase at this time of year - are very difficult to eliminate from your pet's environment. In these cases, your pet may need medication to help reduce the signs associated with this disease.

So, if you see your pet scratching do not hesitate to ask your vet for help. There are many different causes and your vet will work out the best treatment option for your beloved friend!