We offer a wide range of services including medical, diagnostic, surgical, and preventive health care needs for your pet so they live a longer, happier life. One of the best things you can do for your pet to keep him or her healthy is bringing them for regular exams and vaccinations. Protect your cat against problems before they start. Below are is a list of our services.
Vaccinations are important for all domesticated cats. Whether they are strictly indoors or if they spend some time in the outdoors, having up to date vaccinations are crucial for all cats!
Does my indoor cat need to be vaccinated?
Although indoor cats can have less of a risk of coming in contact with certain viruses all pets are at risk of contracting communicable diseases. Having them up to date with vaccine allows you peace of mind that they are protected from some very serious and potentially fatal diseases.
What is FVRCP and core vaccinations for cats?
Panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis and calicivirus are known as the FVRCP vaccine and is part of the core vaccination for cats along with a vaccination for rabies.
Cats that spend time outdoors are recommended to have an additional vaccination for feline leukemia, FeLV vaccination.
How often does my adult cat need vaccination?
At Wycliffe Village Veterinary Clinic, we recommend an annual examination along with the FVRCP vaccine to be done. The rabies vaccine can be given up to every three years. Please discuss your pet's lifestyle with our veterinarian to decide what vaccination schedule is best for your cat.
Are there any risks associated with vaccines?
As with most vaccinations, there are always risks for reactions to the injection. Keeping a close eye on your pet for 24-hours after first receiving a vaccine will give you the time to see any symptoms of a reaction such as; pain, vomiting, diarrhea swelling, and extreme lethargy, have your cat brought back to the clinic. While vaccine reactions are not common, our team is trained on how to respond quickly, as well as to help prevent another reaction in the future.
Young kittens are highly susceptible to infectious diseases, which is why it is very important to have them properly vaccinated!
When do kittens get their first shots?
Here at Wycliffe Village Veterinary Clinic, we recommend getting your kitten initially vaccinated at 8 weeks of age.
How often do my kittens need vaccines?
We continue the FVRCP booster series at 12 weeks and 16 weeks of age. The FVRCP vaccine protects your kitty against the feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia. Finally, at 16 weeks, we also administer the rabies vaccine. FVRCP and rabies are considered core vaccines. Core vaccines are recommended for all cats, either because the disease the vaccine protects against is extremely severe and/or is especially common, or the disease is a threat to humans.
Does my kitten need only core vaccines?
Additionally, we offer a non-core vaccine called FeLV, which is the feline leukemia virus. Exposure to infected cats raises your cat’s risk of contracting FeLV, especially for kittens and young adult cats. Cats in multi-cat households are more at risk, especially if they share water and food dishes and litter boxes.
Are there any risk associated with vaccines?
As with any medical procedure, there is a small chance that reactions may develop as a result of a vaccination. It is rare, but reactions can occur and they range from very mild to severe. If any adverse side effects occur, you can bring your kitten back to have a consultation with one of our qualified veterinarians.
As we live closer to our pets, parasite control in cats is an important part of their preventative medicine and ours as well.
What are some internal cat parasites?
Internal parasites can be worms – such as roundworms, hookworms, whipworms or single-celled parasites, such as Toxoplasma and giardia.
What are worm infestation symptoms in cats?
The most common symptoms of worm infestation are having a bloated abdomen, flatulence, diarrhea, vomiting and loss of appetite.
Do worm affect humans?
Yes, the worms can be transmitted to humans but they rarely stay in our intestinal tract, as we are not their normal host.
Cutaneous Larval Migrans (CLM): is caused by the migration of hookworm larva beneath the skin, leaving extremely itchy red lines, that may be accompanied by blisters.
Ocular Larval Migrans (OLM): is caused by the migration of the roundworm larva, which invades the eye.
Visceral Larval Migrans (VLM): is caused by the migration of the roundworm larva through the abdomen around the organs, also called toxocariasis.
Cysticercus/Cysticercoid: The larval stage of a cestode that consists of a single scolex (head) encased in a fluid-filled cyst.
What is the deworming schedule?
When kittens start coming to a veterinarian at around 8-weeks-old, we deworm them every 2 weeks, until they are around 14-weeks-old. Then, if we find intestinal parasite after or when they are adults, we deworm them and repeat the deworming in 2 weeks, until they are negative for worms.
Any deworming medication side effects?
The most common side effects are vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite.
Dental care is one of the most overlooked and under-treated areas in small animal medicine. Cats are affected by many of the same dental problems that affect humans. The dental disease begins when bacteria colonize the mouth and a plaque biofilm is formed. After a while, this biofilm mineralizes and calcifies into tartar. The bacterial population accumulates, which leads to inflammation and results in periodontal disease. Additional factors such as misaligned teeth, systemic disease, nutrition, and genetics, may also contribute to disease. In addition to periodontal disease, cats can also develop other dental diseases, which include feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions, stomatitis, and fractured teeth.
What is involved in a dental cleaning procedure?
General anesthesia is essential for a proper tooth-by-tooth evaluation. There is a wide array of safe and effective anesthetics and monitoring equipment that make anesthesia as safe as possible.
Once the cat is under general anesthesia, the dental cleaning procedure begins. First steps are charting – the teeth examined for the presence of any loose or fractured teeth, visible tooth resorption, root exposure, periodontal disease, gingivitis/gingival recession. Then scaling is performed, scaling involves removing the tartar both above and below the gum line, on both the inside and the outside of the teeth. This is done with ultrasonic cleaning equipment and with hand instruments. The last step involves polishing, which smoothes the surfaces of the teeth (inside and outside), making them resistant to additional plaque formation.
Intra-oral x-rays are taken with every dental procedure. This is because it is common for cats to have more than one resorptive area, and often times, the resorptive pathology is below the gum line. Which means the only way to diagnose it is by taking an image of the tooth root. Diseased, non-salvageable teeth are extracted. For most teeth, extraction involves the surgical creation of a “gingival flap” (allowing better access to the tooth root, and allowing to more easily suture the tooth socket closed). Prior to any extraction, local or regional analgesia (pain) blocks are performed. When the procedure is completed, the cat is moved to a post-surgical area to recover from the anesthesia.
What are signs of dental problems in cats?
It is important to note that often there are no obvious signs of dental disease. Most cats who have dental disease still eat without a noticeable change in appetite. Signs of dental pathology can include bad breath, dropping food or chewing only on one side of the mouth, facial swellings or draining wounds, bleeding or discharge from the mouth or nose, sneezing, pawing at the mouth, tooth grinding, or discoloured teeth.
Are some breeds more susceptible than others?
The breed of the cat also can be a factor in dental disease. Some breeds, including Abyssinians, oriental breeds, and Persians, are more susceptible to dental disease than other breeds. Very short-nosed breeds, invariably have abnormally positioned teeth. Their jawbones are often too small to accommodate the teeth, resulting in overcrowding and misalignment of teeth.
What is feline tooth resorption?
More than half of the cats over three years old will be affected by tooth resorption. These tooth defects have also been called cavities, neck lesions, external or internal root resorptions, or cervical line erosions. Teeth affected by lesions will erode and finally disappear when they are absorbed back into the cat’s body. The root structure breaks down; then the enamel and most of the tooth become ruined, and bone replaces the tooth. This most commonly happens where the gum meets the tooth surface. Molars are most commonly affected; however, tooth resorptions can be found on any tooth. The reason for the resorption is unknown, but theories supporting an autoimmune response have been proposed.
Cats affected with tooth resorption may show excessive salivation, bleeding in the mouth, or have difficulty eating. Tooth resorptions can be quite painful. A majority of affected cats do not show obvious clinical signs. Most times, it is up to the clinician to diagnose the lesions upon oral examination. Diagnostic aids include a probe or cotton-tipped applicator applied to the suspected resorption; when the probe touches the lesion, it causes pain and jaw spasms. Radiographs are helpful in making a definitive diagnosis.
Saying goodbye to a furry loved one is very difficult. Here at Wycliffe Village Veterinary Clinic, we know how hard it really is, we have pets too.
When should I consider euthanasia?
It’s really everyone’s personal comfort level. You really need to look at the quality of life your cat is leading. Wycliffe Village Veterinary Clinic is here to help you if you wish, with a quality of life exam. A physical exam is done and the doctor can answer any of your questions you may have.
What happens during euthanasia?
During euthanasia, your cat might be given a sedative. We place an IV catheter in one of the legs, then you can spend as much time with your pet. When you are ready, the doctor gives your pet an injection, which is an overdose of a drug that helps them fall asleep and their heart stops. This can happen in matters of seconds.
Do you do house calls?
Unfortunately, we do not do house calls.
Can you stay with your cat during euthanasia?
All families are welcome to stay with their furry family member during the euthanasia.
What is the cost of at home or clinic euthanasia?
The cost of euthanasia ranges based on species, the size of pet and different aftercare options, such as an urn or paw print. Aftercare options can be seen at the Gateway Pet Memorial website.
Do you offer pet bereavement support service?
Wycliffe Village Veterinary Clinic does recommend that you take advantage of all of the bereavement counselling options that are available to us. We recommend speaking to one of our customer service representatives for further information.
Fleas are parasites that live in the outside environment and feed on our pets. They can be transferred from pet to pet, from the environment, or through grooming tools, beds, etc. They can be very damaging to pets that are very small, older pets, or those with certain health conditions. Prevention of fleas is easy, inexpensive, and is greatly preferred over treating existing infestations, since this can be time-consuming, annoying, and may not work completely. Visit a veterinarian to see what flea control product is best for your cat.
What are fleas?
Fleas are small insects that live on pets and in the surrounding environment. They feed on organic debris in the environment as larvae and on your pet’s blood as adults. Their life cycle can last anywhere from a few weeks to a year, as the pupae stage can lie dormant for months, waiting for ideal conditions.
How do fleas harm the cats?
Fleas can cause many issues in your cat. The flea can become infected with a tapeworm, which is passed on to the cat when it eats a flea while grooming. Therefore, any cat with fleas should also be tested or treated for tapeworms. Fleas can also cause an allergic reaction in the cat, called flea allergy dermatitis. This is more likely to happen when there are many bites over time, but can occur with a single flea bite. It causes extreme itchiness, hair loss, and infections, as the cat is constantly scratching itself and causing wounds to form. Finally, repeated flea bites can cause anemia, or low red blood cell count, in your pet, as the flea is feeding on its blood. This is more likely to happen with kittens, older cats, or cats that have existing health problems.
Why is treating and preventing fleas so important?
Prevention is key to keeping your cat flea-free and healthy. Once there are fleas, and their earlier stages (eggs, larvae, and pupae) in the environment, they are very difficult to get rid of completely. The entire house should be treated, as well as any beds, grooming tools, etc. If a few fleas or their eggs or larvae are left alive, this could turn into another infestation weeks or even months down the road. The immature stages can also live deep in carpet or rugs, or even in the cracks under baseboards! There are also different products to treat your house. The best prevention methods generally contain an insecticide and growth regulator, to kill existing fleas and stop the immature fleas from maturing. Several treatments may be necessary to fully rid your house of these parasites. In the meantime, your pet should have regular flea control treatments, so that your pet also stays parasite-free.
Simple steps for treating fleas in your senior cat?
If you suspect your pet may have fleas or are interested in preventing a flea outbreak, the best thing to do is visit a veterinarian. They can recommend a prescription product that is best for him or her, and their specific needs. Whether they are an older or younger pet, have allergies, or other health concerns, there is something the veterinarian will recommend. Other products sold at the pet store or department store are usually discouraged, as they can be harmful to some animals.
Spaying and neutering our feline friends is an important procedure, this should be done around 6 months of age. But don’t fret, this procedure will not alter your cat’s personality, just deter unwanted behaviours and diseases.
What is spaying or neutering?
Spaying and neutering are routine surgeries that will prevent our felines from reproducing and help prevent reproductive tract diseases such as Pyometra (infection of the uterus) in females and testicular cancer in males. Early spay and neuter will also help to avoid unwanted behaviours in males and females including urine marking, spraying and vocalization.
When should I neuter/spay my cat?
At Wycliffe Village Veterinary Clinic, we recommend spaying or neutering your pet around the age of six months. Final age recommendations should always be given to you from your doctor.
What is the procedure to spay/neuter a cat?
Spaying is also known as an ovariohysterectomy and it is the complete removal of the ovaries and uterus. This surgery requires recovery watch, IV fluids, medications to go home, and a custom care collar.
Neuter also known as an orchiectomy, this is a removal of both testicles. This is a day surgery and includes recovery watch, medication to go home with and a customer care collar. This also includes a complimentary re-check within two weeks of the surgery, if any concerns arise from the surgery.
During these surgeries, your feline friend will be monitored by a veterinary technician. This includes a blood pressure check, heart rate, respiratory rate and blood oxygen levels.
Radiographs (x-rays) are used extensively in feline medicine. Diagnosing gastrointestinal disease, asthma, bronchitis, other pulmonary diseases, cardiac diseases, orthopedic diseases and many other diseases relies heavily on x-rays. X-rays are also very important in monitoring how a cat is responding to treatment.
What is the technology?
At Wycliffe Village Veterinary Clinic, we have a digital radiograph and that allows us to see the x-rays on a computer immediately after taking them.
Does the clinic also do feline dental x-rays?
Wycliffe Village Veterinary Clinic also has a dental radiograph (x-ray) machine. Dental x-rays are a crucial part of dental care for cats. Cats can get resorptive lesions that cause erosions in the teeth that are often under the gum line, dental x-rays are needed to assess the health of teeth and know which teeth need to be removed.
How much does cat x-ray cost?
At Wycliffe Village Veterinary Clinic, we determine how many x-rays are required as based on the situation. Radiographs are also sent out to be interpreted by a radiology specialist. Dental radiographs are always performed in a full mouth manner, while the pet is under anesthesia. As always, we recommend having a physical exam performed by one of our doctors to ensure the quote is specific to the needs of your pet.
Most clients are unaware that ear cleaning and nail trimming in cats is necessary, both of these areas are a very common place for our feline friends. A cat’s ears may need to be cleaned for many reasons; ear infections, parasitic infections, dirt build-up, etc. To determine if your cat’s ears need to be cleaned, it is best to have one of our veterinarians exam the ears and find out if there is a cause for concern. Specific solutions and techniques need to be followed, it isn’t recommended to proceed with ear cleaning for your cat until you have had your veterinarian or veterinarian staff support you, as damage to the ear canal could occur. Nail trimming is very common for our feline friends and can be performed on a regular basis. In fact, it is best to do so often to ensure your pet continues to be comfortable with the handling of their paws and the cutting of their nails. Again, this is an area where a quick tutorial is ideal from one of our friendly staff members, as if you cut the nails too short, it can cause bleeding and pain, both of which are not ideal. Once owners have been shown how to safely perform this procedure, it is an area you can continue to perform at home. Some of our clients are happy to bring their feline friend in repeatedly for this procedure, both are acceptable and welcomed.
What ear cleaning services does the clinic provide?
A solution is placed into the ear canal, making sure to avoid the ear drum. The solutions are distributed around the ear canal by massaging the pet’s ear. Cats often LOVE this; the ears are often itchy when inflammation is present. After the massaging technique, which we usually do for longer than needed, just to make the experience more enjoyable for your pet, we take large pieces of cotton and remove any debris that has been loosened by the cleaning solution. Veterinary approved cotton-tipped applicators can be used to remove debris from deeper within the canal. NOTE: this technique should only be performed by your veterinary provider, as damage can occur in this very sensitive area of the body. Tutorials are offered at the clinic at no extra charge to our clients.
Do you offer packages?
At this time, wellness packages are not being offered at Wycliffe Village Veterinary Clinic. This is an area that we fully understand the need for within the veterinary industry. It is our hope that down the road this will be an area to offer our client base
Being overweight is a big problem for our feline friends. Most people don’t know that this can lead to several health issues like osteoarthritis, which puts strains on heart and lungs, urinary tract disorders, diabetes and nonallergic skin conditions.
Is my cat fat?
One way to judge if your cat is fat, is to do a hand test. Look at your hand and make a fist, if you look at your knuckles, you can see and feel very obvious ups and downs. Now look at your cat; if you can see the ribs, they are too skinny. Now look at the top of your hand and run your other hand over it, you can feel the bones but not see them; if this is what you feel on your cat, we are at a good weight. Now flip your hand over and poke into the meaty part of your hand, most of us have to poke a little harder to feel any bone; if this what you have to do to feel your cat’s ribs, then you guessed it, your cat is carrying around some unwanted weight.
How can my cat lose weight? Weight loss tips?
We want to start with a weight loss diet. Some clients don’t know that just because the bag says light, control, or less active, that it does not make it a weight loss food. We need to find a weight loss food specific to your pet, then we can start challenging/playing with them. Laser pointer, balls or balls you can put their food in so they have to work for it, toys, anything to get them up and moving. Some cats might even enjoy a walk around the backyard with you on a harness, always supervised.
What is offered in nutritional consultation?
In a nutritional consult, first we weigh our patient and look at the total body score. We score patients out of 5; 4 being overweight and 5 being obese. We would like to find what your cat is eating, what treats are being offered and how often do you feed them, are you the only one that feeds and gives treats? We would like to know any medical history, especially if we don’t already have it. At this point, we have all of the information that we need to start making a life-changing plan for you!
It probably doesn’t come as a surprise to anyone, that a senior cat has needs that are different than those of a young cat. But how do you know when your cat is a senior?
What are the stages of a senior cat’s life? How to spot signs of ageing?
Generally, cats over the age of seven are considered to be in the senior life stage. Although age itself is not a disease, older cats may experience health changes associated with ageing and maybe at greater risk for developing specific medical conditions. Regularly scheduled visits to your veterinarian will help to prevent disease.
My senior cat is losing weight, what can I do?
The nutritional needs of cats change as they move into their senior years. Decreased appetite, alterations in metabolism, reduced mobility, and behavioural changes are all commonly associated with ageing. Senior cats may have a decreased appetite for a variety of reasons. Easy access to food and water bowls, warming canned food, and adding water to kibble may all assist in ensuring your senior cat continues to maintain a healthy weight and receive optimal nutrition.
How can I care for my senior cat?
Environmental enrichment is important for cats of all ages and should not be abandoned for senior cats. Interactive toys, food puzzles (particularly for overweight cats), even supervised access to the outdoors or leash walking can help keep senior cats entertained, as well as helping to burn excess calories and keep muscles and joints healthy.
What are some common health issues?
Provide your older cat with special accommodations. For instance, cats with arthritis might benefit from litter boxes with lower sides for easier access into and out of the box. Providing soft bedding for your cat, either with a cat bed or with towels or blankets to rest on, can help your cat be more comfortable. Be sure that food and water are easily accessible. Don’t force your arthritic senior cat to go up and down stairs to eat, drink or use the litter box.
Why is my senior cat having behavioural issues?
There are numerous degenerative health diseases, degenerative cognitive diseases, and other behavioural issues that can develop as cat ages. It is very important to have your senior pet examined if you notice significant behavioural changes to ensure a proper diagnosis is developed.