Fred is a dashingly handsome 6-month-old black cat who is very friendly and a bundle of fun. He loves to meet new people, and enjoys petting and playing.
Provided to the LVN
Dear reader, it is “National Appreciate Your Cat Month,” and with the recent outbreak of dog flu, I thought it would be a good idea to write about feline flu. Cat flu is a virus that much like human flu can leave them with a fever, runny nose, and watery eyes.
Several different viruses can cause the cat flu. Some of the common culprits are calcivirus, herpes, bordetella bronchiseptica, and chlamydophila felis. Calcivirus exists in different forms referred to as strains. Complete vaccine protection for this virus is impossible because of the many strains. Many cats will recover and are not contagious after a year.
Herpes viruses can be severe and may produce eye ulcers. There is only one strain of this virus, so vaccination works well. Unfortunately, after exposure the cat remains a carrier for life.
Bordetella broncheseptica is actually a bacterium and is what causes kennel cough in dogs. Interestingly, cats can actually catch the flu from dogs. Antibiotics are recommended for successful treatment. Vaccines are available, but they are not always preventive. Nevertheless, if your BFF does get the flu it will be less severe.
Chlamydophila felis is a bacterium that causes sore runny eyes and a mild cold. Several types of antibiotics are effective and vaccines are available. This can be difficult to get rid of especially if more than one cat is infected.
In all types of cat flu, it is prudent to isolate the infected cat and wash all food bowls and cat toys. Wash your hands after handling the cat or articles.
The main thing to do when your cat is sick is to help her feel better by wiping her nose and eyes. This helps to facilitate their breathing and enable them to smell their food. When they lose their sense of smell and taste, they eat and drink less. Keeping your BFF hydrated and fed is important to their recovery.
Generally, cat flu it is not usually serious in healthy cats; however, it can be serious in kittens, elderly, and adult cats with underlying illnesses. When in doubt take your BFF to the veterinarian. Keep the flu on the fly!
ATTENTION
If you are looking for a gift that keeps on giving, please donate funds or items.
Funds: CAPS website: http://www.caps.nonprofix.com/donate/
Items: http://www.chewy.com/g/churchill-animal-protection-society b90304381#wish-list&wishlistsortby=DEFAULT
LOOKING FOR A HOME
We have four 13-week-old pitbull-mix puppies available to foster and two handsome 15-month-old male puppies. BG and Diego are anxiously waiting to find their forever homes. Cat lovers, we have seven gray tabby and four black four-month-old kittens. They are cute!
IN NEED OF
• Board members! We are seeking energetic, enthusiastic, community-minded folks to serve on the CAPS board. We meet once a month. Call 775-423-7500 for details.
• Bleach, laundry detergent pods, toilet paper, and paper towels to stock our shelter.
• XXL Kong Extremes for our guests.
• Would you like to foster animals? Call CAPS for details.
• Aluminum cans. We will pick up your cans; give us a call at 775-423-7500. You can also drop them off at CAPS.
SHOUT OUT TO
• The volunteers who represented CAPS at the High School Craft Show. Paws applause to you!
• Big R for the generous food donation. A Four Paw Salute to you!
COME SEE US
We will be at Walmart on Sunday, Dec. 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., we would love to see you!
CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
We suggest appointments for adoptions and food pantry.
DON’T FORGET
• December Holiday: National Cat Appreciation Month.
• Would you like a newsletter? Call 775-423-7500 or email caps@cccom.net.
• CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89407. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Please visit the CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are likeable.
Kathleen Williams-Miller is a CAPS volunteer. Email jkwmil@outlook.com.