One of the most lovable things about dogs is their attachment to you, their pet parent. They want to be wherever you are — no ifs, ands, or buts. Although you, of course, adore spending time with your four-legged friend, there are times when you might want your space — for instance, when it’s time to go to sleep.

Dogs don’t always understand these boundaries at first, but it is possible to train them to sleep in their crate, a dog bed, or anywhere else you prefer that’s not your sleeping spot. With these five tips and tricks, you can learn how to keep your dog off your bed and in their own in no time.

Why do dogs want to sleep on your bed?

When you bring a pup home, you become part of their pack. While the dominance theory has been thoroughly debunked, they still want to sleep in close quarters with you and anyone else they deem to be in the group. Sleeping next to you helps them feel safe and happy.

Plus, it’s really comfy to lie in your soft and warm bed with your fuzzy blankets. Because canines often go by smell, they may also be attracted to the scent you leave behind. Approximately 50% of dog owners report sharing their bed with their dog, but that doesn’t mean you have to join the crowd.

Methods for keeping your dog off your bed

There are a lot of great approaches and tips you can follow to keep your dog in their own comfy bed. The most important thing to remember is that you’re not being “mean,” you are simply being firm. Read on to learn about the best ways to achieve this bedtime goal:

1. Consistency is key

When it comes to training your dog to do something, it is important to always remain consistent and firm. Always use the same commands, such as “off” to get them off your bed, or “place” to get them into their bed. By using the same commands over and over again, your dog will begin to react almost instantly. You can always use rewards like affection, praise, their favorite toy, or small treats to reinforce the good behavior. This type of training can take weeks or months to fully click with your dog, so it is important to be patient.

2. Get your dog a bed they can’t refuse

If your dog has the comfiest bed on the market, they may not even miss sleeping next to their favorite person. There are so many amazing beds available online and in pet stores. You can do some research and read reviews to see what beds are loved the most.

3. Keep them close by

Just because you are kicking your dog off the bed doesn’t mean you need to keep them out of the room. A setup near your bed or right outside of your bedroom will promote a sense of security for your dog and will help them accept this new sleeping arrangement.

4. Reinforce with the “off” command

One of the best commands you can use for this type of training is “off.” This word is short and easy to say. It is important to say it firmly and point to the floor to give your pup some direction. Whenever you find your dog on your bed, immediately command “off” and then reward the behavior once they hop down.

5. Use placement training

Just like “off,” you can utilize another short word like “place” to give your dog some direction. The word “place” can be used to describe their very own bed. By telling them to go to their place, they have a sense of direction. You can use both “off” and “place” consecutively to let them know it is bedtime.

Why keep your dog off your bed in the first place?

Although many of us love bedtime snuggles with our furry best friends, there are quite a few benefits to keeping your sleeping spaces separate. Some of these reasons include:

• Better sleep for you. Dogs tend to be bed hogs. They love to stretch out and get comfy. Although this is great for them, it’s not so great for you. People usually sleep better when they have the space they need to rest. It is also common for loud snoring from your dog to create some issues at bedtime.

• Your bed stays soft, not furry. Shedding is a common characteristic of nearly every breed of dog. Some shed way more than others, but their small hairs still end up everywhere, regardless of breed. When you don’t allow your dog on your bed, your bed stays cleaner and less hairy. The excessive shedding on your bed can cause itchiness on your skin and face, not to mention some unintentionally swallowed hairs in your mouth.

• Fewer trips to the laundry room. Very few dogs wear shoes outside every day and take a daily bath before bedtime. Because of this, it is easy for dogs to track dirt, insects, and debris onto your soft sheets. By keeping your dog off your bed, you’ll spend less time washing your sheets and more time enjoying them.

Keeping your dog off your bed requires consistency, patience, and firmness. You have to do everything you can to resist those puppy eyes. You will be happy you did in the long run, though, because both you and your pup will benefit from a better night’s sleep every time.

Keeping your pH consistent is a major part of a thriving aquarium. Too high or too low, and your whole ecosystem will be thrown out of whack. Generally speaking, the acceptable pH levels for an aquarium range from 6.8 to 7.8, with 7.0 being the neutral point. (Keep in mind your tank’s acidic or alkaline levels will go up and down pretty regularly, too.) What causes high pH in an aquarium? Here’s the key information you need to know.

What is pH in Aquariums?

If you barely remember high school chemistry, you might be a little unclear about what pH even means and why it matters to your fish. First, know that we’re actually looking at a measurement, which indicates the level of acidity or alkalinity of a liquid. Lower numbers mean more acidic and higher numbers, less.

As mentioned, the midpoint is 7.0, which is the pH of pure water. But that’s not to say if you open a faucet, you’ll get perfect 7-level water. It’s a good idea to check your source with a testing kit so you know where you’re starting from and then you can use a few tips and tricks to bring it up or down as needed.

Common causes of pH level increase

Stones and rocks

Certain stones and rocks can raise your pH levels. Calcium-rich materials like limestone dissolve and mix into the water, thus increasing the pH. On the flip side, consider adding shells or crushed stone to the bottom of your aquarium if you need to increase your pH levels.

Aquatic plants

If you have aquatic plants, they can trap carbon dioxide and other materials like nitrates, which hike up pH levels. Keep an eye out for excess algae and slime on glass, decorations, and rocks. This usually means the pH level is too high.

An ineffective filter

An ineffective or old filter can be damaging in various ways, but most of all, it makes the water’s pH disagreeable to fish. Fish waste and other broken-down organic material like leftover food keep pH levels elevated.

Tap water

Tap water contains alkaline compounds and metals. This is why most experts will recommend against using regular, unconditioned tap water in your aquariums.

Aerating your tank

Aerating your tank allows carbon dioxide to escape, consequently increasing pH levels. Consider an air stone, like this sleek, cylindrical one from Hygger, if you need to slightly raise your water’s alkalinity. This stone is available in 4-inch or 2-inch diameters and weighs only 15.2 ounces (430 grams). When your pH level is too low, turn off or remove the air stone to increase pH levels again.

Baking soda

A common way to increase pH levels easily is by dissolving baking soda in some water and then pouring it into your tank. This alkaline mixture should be incorporated regularly for the best results. However, be cautious about adding too much baking soda at once. Let your fish adapt to the pH level increase before adding any more baking soda.

How to decrease the pH levels in your aquarium

Replace your filter and clean your tank

Try replacing your old filter and the pH level might go back to optimum levels. Additionally, cleaning your tank regularly ensures that your aquarium is completely waste-free, as many water filters don’t successfully eliminate all fish waste.

Add driftwood or peat moss

Driftwood is an aesthetically pleasing decoration choice for fish tanks, but too much can make your pH levels drop. Granted, this may be helpful if your water’s pH is too high. Compounds called tannins actually soften hard, alkaline water.

You can also add peat moss to your tank, but note that this might give your water a yellow-brown tint. Similar to driftwood, peat moss contains tannins and other acids that counter high pH levels. Note that whenever you’re considering using driftwood, peat moss, or other decorative elements, make sure it’s made for aquarium use and comes from a reputable source.

Invest in a reverse osmosis machine

A costlier option is a reverse osmosis (RO) machine, which can significantly improve pH water levels and keep them steady. Reverse osmosis works by carefully filtering water and keeping contaminants out, including metals. These devices have filters you’ll need to replace every now and then, but it’s a worthy investment for serious fish tank enthusiasts.

This heavy-duty reverse osmosis system from LiquaGen has a manual flush valve that prevents leaks and makes flushing maintenance quick. It’s compatible with both saltwater and freshwater tanks with fish, plants, and coral. If you’re a first-time RO buyer, this is the best choice, thanks to simple installation and handling instructions.

What causes a high pH in aquariums differs between water type, fish, decorations, and more. Fortunately, there are several ways you can decrease or increase pH levels intentionally to make sure your fish and other aquatic pets are comfortable. From simple solutions like adding multipurpose decor to more serious actions like installing a reverse osmosis filtration system, you can achieve the perfect pH level for your fish using our comprehensive guide.

Dogs like to sleep in so many places: in your bed, in their own bed, on a sunny spot on the floor, and in their dog crate, to name a few. But that’s not the only thing a crate is helpful for. It can keep your canine friend out of mischief and give you peace of mind when you’re out of the house. A dog crate should ideally be a place of security and comfort for your pup (and it can be even better if you personalize it for their own unique needs). Of course, this raises the question of where to put a dog crate.

Have you been Googling something like, “Where to put dog crate?” We’ve got you covered! Always remember that a dog crate is supposed to create a safe space for your pet, while also assisting in their training, so the way you utilize that space in your home is essential for both of you.

Where to put a dog crate in your home — it depends on these important factors

Dogs are known for being very social animals — they love being close to their owners. In fact, dogs are considered a part of the family’s daily life. Thus, your crate must give your pooch a positive experience instead of a traumatic, negative one.

A high-traffic area is best for social pups that enjoy lots of time with family

For dogs who enjoy lots of social time, the best place to put your preferred dog crate is in a busy area. This location will help your dog feel the vibe of the household and make them feel like a real family member. They’ll be literally in the middle of it all!

Whether you’re crate training a new puppy, introducing a crate to an older dog, or simply offering your dog a place of their own, there will be benefits to placing the crate in the middle of the home. This will enable your dog to see all the activities going on in the household. It will make them feel included in the family. Hiding the crate away in a basement or laundry room, for instance, is completely unfair, as your dog will be excluded from all activities carried out in the home.

The precise location for placing your dog crate varies from one house to another. For some, it can be in the living room; for others, it can be in the kitchen or any other busy place. Ensure your dog crate is located where activities in the house are visible, so your dog won’t worry about being left alone.

A quiet spot, such as a back bedroom, may be best for anxious dogs or those that need space

Alternatively, you can place your dog’s crate in a quieter area of your home. This may contradict our previous though, but sometimes a central location can be too overstimulating for a shyer pet. Parties, animated family mealtimes, loud music, and guests coming around can lead to dog anxiety.  This is when having quiet refuge for your dog to escape to is important.

What about placing a dog crate in my bedroom?

If you are caring for a puppy, your bedroom is an ideal location for their crate. Your bedroom will certainly give your baby that warm, inclusive feeling. This transition of coming home can be difficult, to say the least, so having someone nearby will be comforting.

At the very least, move the crate to your bedroom at night. A puppy sleeping in another room will feel insecure, stressed, and even abandoned. If you don’t want to move the crate from the bedroom to the living room or kitchen every day, getting a second crate isn’t a bad idea.

Tips for choosing a spot for your dog crate

• When choosing the location for your dog crate, ensure it is far from the fireplace or radiator — you don’t want your dog’s blankets to catch fire by accident. You wouldn’t want your pup getting overheated, either!
• The location should not be drafty, as that can adversely affect your dog’s health over time. Avoid locations that are extremely cold or in an exposed area.
• Avoid direct sunlight.

Dog crate safety 101: The location isn’t the only important factor to consider

If this will be the first crate you purchase for your dog, you’ll want to know a few basics to keep your fur baby as safe and comfortable as possible.

• Crate size. A dog’s crate should give them just enough room to stand up and turn around, but not enough room that they could go to the bathroom in the crate.
• Don’t place anything on the crate. Remember, just because your dog’s crate is in a busy area of the house doesn’t mean it’s a piece of furniture. Never place anything on top of the crate heavier than 1 pound unless you splurge for a specially made crate built into a table.
• Avoid hazardous items. Don’t place your dog’s crate near power outlets, toxic plants, or other hazards.

Potential problems

Many veterinarians and trainers recommend crate training — and for good reasons. It gives your pet a safe, secure place to go (and can prevent your pup from getting into items in your home, including toxic ones, during training). However, some issues may include:

• Whining. Your dog’s whine may break your heart. See if your pet needs to go out to potty.
• Separation anxiety. Whining may be from separation anxiety — and crate training won’t solve it. Separation anxiety often triggers destructive behaviors, like chewing blankets. Talk to your vet if you notice this behavior.

You may wonder if you should move the crate if you notice these issues. On the plus side, moving the crate may help with whining. For example, your pet may do better if they can see you (so move it to your bedroom) or if you two are separate at night (so move it out). Your vet is a great resource and can recommend trainers should you have issues with crate training.

When deciding on a spot for your dog crate, consider your dog’s personality and your family’s lifestyle. Keeping a dog crate in a highly visible, high-traffic area is a good idea, enabling your dog to feel like part of the family. However, if you have an anxious dog or your family is a bit too rambunctious, it might be best to place the crate in a quiet corner so your dog can escape the noise and commotion. When in doubt, get two crates, so you can always have the right location for your pup’s crate without lugging it around.

No one likes to ask, “Why is my cat peeing on my bed?” Noticing that your cat peed on your fresh-out-of-the-washing-machine sheets is of the most irritating things she can do. There are a lot of different reasons besides your cat just being a jerk that explain why she would do such a thing. Understanding the “why” will help you figure out what is really going on inside of your furry feline’s head, so you can then determine how to stop this unwanted behavior.

While many believe the primary reason cats pee on the bed is because they’re just being sassy, this is usually not the case. Read on to learn why your cat has picked up this undesirable habit and what you can do to put an end to it.

Why do cats pee on the bed?

Whether it’s related to medical issues, it’s a serious problem that you should stop your cat from doing. First, you have to determine the cause of the behavior. Some of the most common reasons cats pee on the bed include:

• An underlying medical condition. A urinary tract infection, diabetes, and kidney disease are the top three reasons your cat may have difficulty controlling its bladder. This may be the case in cats that not only urinate on your bed but also in other places besides their litter box. It’s important to bring your cat to the vet immediately if you notice this behavior.
• Stress and anxiety. When cats become overwhelmed and stressed, they sometimes use urination as a coping mechanism. Your cat may be stressed or anxious about various factors that will cause them to pee outside the litter box.
• Attachment issues. Since your natural scent fills your bed, your cat probably finds it very comforting when you’re away. If you have a kitty that doesn’t like to be apart, she may urinate on your bed to combine her scent with your scent for comfort.
• Jealousy. Adding a new cat, dog, or even a baby to the home could create jealous feelings in your cat and may cause your cat to feel threatened. She will want to mark her territory, and your bed may be the prime spot for this behavior.
• Unappealing litter box conditions. If your cat’s litter box isn’t up to her standards, she may urinate in your bed to let you know. Whether you haven’t been scooping the poop often enough or the litter box isn’t the right size, your cat will avoid the litter box entirely if she doesn’t feel comfortable using it. Cats are highly particular and might protest the litter box’s location, the type of box, and even the type of litter.
• Your cat isn’t fixed. A cat that isn’t spayed or neutered may spray and mark furniture, walls, and carpets. Your furry friend is more likely to mark surfaces than a fixed cat. In this case, the solution is easy — call your vet and schedule an appointment to get your cat spayed or neutered.

What can you do to stop your cat from peeing on the bed?

The best way to stop this behavior is to find the cause. Usually, the reason is some kind of underlying medical condition. Because of this, the first step should always be to check with your veterinarian. If your veterinarian clears your cat of any medical ailments, you can try some of these tactics to help keep your bed clean:

• Tire your cat out with long play sessions to reduce anxiety and stress.
• Prioritize cuddle time, so your cat feels loved and secure.
• Ensure your cat’s litter box is always clean.
• Try out new litter boxes and litter box locations to provide the perfect conditions for your cat.
• Find any outside stressors that may be causing your cat anxiety.
• Make the bed an unattractive place with unappealing scents or a scat mat.
• Encourage litter box use with treats as positive reinforcement.

What not to do if your cat pees on your bed

You’ve probably heard the same not-so-helpful advice we all have heard: “Just rub her nose in it. That will make her stop.” Contrary to popular belief, yelling at your cat, spraying your cat with a bit of water, or rubbing her nose in her mess won’t actually improve her behavior. It could even make things worse. If your cat is urinating outside the litter box due to stressors, making her more fearful will only cause her behavior to continue. When in doubt, your best course of action is to consult a veterinarian.

Answering the question, “Why does my cat pee on my bed?” is just the first step. In addition to addressing the specific issue causing your cat to pee on the bed, you’ll need to take steps to help your kitty “reset.” Start by thoroughly cleaning your bedding, so it no longer smells like pee.

While it’s often recommended to cover your bed in plastic because cats hate the texture, veterinarians strongly caution against doing so. Leaving your cat unattended with plastic tarps, bags, or shower curtains can have severe consequences, as your cat may ingest some of the plastic, leading to intestinal blockages, or she could even suffocate if she becomes tangled. Instead, you can retrain your cat to associate the bed with bonding time and food. Make sure you cuddle your cat and feed her treats in bed. Because cats are averse to urinating where they eat, teaching your fur baby that your bed is a place for snuggling and snacking will teach her not to treat your mattress as her litter box.

Underlying medical conditions or stress can cause your cat to urinate on your bed. While this behavior is frustrating, unsanitary, and pretty gross, it can signify that your cat needs help. If this behavior arises, bringing your cat to the veterinarian for further diagnosis is essential. It may be the most effective way to resolve the issue. If your cat has no medical problems, this type of activity could simply be a behavioral issue that needs addressing. Either way, getting to the bottom of your cat’s inappropriate urination will ensure a healthier and happier home for both of you.

Unplanned loss of weight in cats can be a symptom of several health complications that your veterinarian should check out immediately. You don’t want to take a “wait and see” approach or assume your cat will suddenly start to put on weight again. Remember, prompt treatment is essential for your cat’s well-being.

How can I tell if my cat is losing weight?

The best way to tell whether your cat is losing weight is simply by paying attention and performing weekly checks. It can be tough to know if weight loss is occurring if your cat has a lot of fur, so you’ll need to feel the sides of your cat’s body to see if their ribs are protruding or if there are any noticeable changes to their body composition. Dr. Ken Lambrecht, a veterinarian from Madison, Wisconsin, told Catster, “You can do that in combination with petting them and giving them affection, and just kind of feeling muscle mass and general mass.”

What should I do about my cat’s unintentional weight loss?

If your feline friend has been eating regular meals and even enjoying snacks but still seems to be getting lighter and lighter, you’ve probably started to wonder what’s going on.

It is essential to your fur baby’s health that they maintain a healthy weight for their age and breed. That’s why if you’ve noticed your cat suddenly losing weight — with or without changes in their appetite —  you need to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

What is causing my cat to lose weight?

There are many medical issues that can cause your kitty to lose weight, and you should be aware of the most common causes of sudden weight loss. Let’s explore some possibilities.

Emotional issues

Some emotional causes of weight loss are stress, anxiety, and depression. If you’ve introduced other animals to your home, moved to a new home, or noticed your cat’s behavior change in other unpredictable ways, these mental-health issues might be areas for your veterinarian to address. If your cat is generally less interested in his food, feline anorexia could be the cause. All of these conditions can be successfully treated by a licensed professional.

Hyperthyroidism

If your cat has hyperthyroidism, they will urinate and drink a lot more because the condition sends their metabolism into overdrive. The most common cause is a benign tumor on the thyroid gland. It’s a very serious condition that can lead to heart disease, stroke, and blindness, so be sure to contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect it.

Gastrointestinal issues

Gastrointestinal (GI) problems can occur in cats that have inflammatory bowel disease, infections, or allergies to foods they have eaten. If your fur baby suffers from nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, those are all strong indicators that your cat has a GI issue.

Intestinal parasites

Many of the same symptoms — like diarrhea and vomiting — will also be present in cats struggling with intestinal parasites. These unwanted guests could be living inside your cat and causing weight loss. Because different parasites require different treatments, we recommend taking your cat to the vet if you suspect a parasitic infestation.

Organ failure

Organ failure can be a cause of weight loss that frequently occurs in older cats. As cats age, severe health conditions become more likely. Common ailments older cats suffer from include cancer and diabetes and require a proper diagnosis from your veterinarian.

What if I can’t see my veterinarian right away?

If you’re concerned about your cat but unable to see your vet immediately, try not to worry too much. Instead, keep detailed records with information about what’s happening with your cat, and then give your veterinarian a call. Explain everything, listen, and follow their advice.

Your vet may be able to make recommendations over the phone that could help your cat right away. They might still want you to come in, but at least after speaking on the phone, you can devise a plan that works for everyone.

While many conditions that cause weight loss in cats are serious, please try not to panic. Much less frightening health issues, such as a toothache or other dental problems, can also lead to weight loss. Only your veterinarian is qualified to diagnose what’s going on with your cat.

We can’t stress this enough: If you are concerned about your pet, call your vet as soon as possible. By the end of the call, you will likely feel much better than before you reached out.

In closing

When your cat is eating normally and cannot maintain their weight, it could be due to a serious issue. Treat it like one and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Though it might be stressful, talking with your veterinarian is the first step to getting your feline companion back to their healthy, happy, and vibrant self.

What is the water vs. land ratio?

Most turtles spend some time on land; even sea turtles venture to dry ground to lay their eggs. Turtles do not need and should not have enclosures full of water. Small floating platforms that turtles can climb onto should suffice for turtles that spend most of their time underwater. However, some aquatic turtles enjoy exploring the land and need more of a dry area. Research the particular species of aquatic turtle you’re interested in to find out how much time they spend in the water compared to on land.

What should an aquatic turtle’s environment include?

Turtles usually don’t like to be handled and may bite. That means your new reptile will spend most of its time chilling out in its habitat. Their environment should be quiet, with the correct water temperature, lighting, and filtration system. It is vital to their health and well-being for their environment to mimic the dwellings of turtles in nature. Your tank should include the following:

• Plenty of space: First and foremost, you will need a tank of sufficient size to allow your turtle room to swim freely. Individual turtles need at least a 40-gallon tank filled with chlorine-free filtered water.
• Clean water: Because turtles eat and defecate in their water, they need a filter to prevent the waste from polluting the tank. In addition, you’ll need to empty and clean the tank with a bleach solution at least once weekly.
• A basking lamp and heater: The habitat will require a basking lamp and a submersible heater to keep the water cooler at one end than the other. A platform at least partially out of the water is necessary, preferably with a ramp to create a shallow area for basking. Turtles need exposure to an incandescent and UV lamp or direct sunlight for 10 to 12 hours daily for optimum health.
• Extras: You can put gravel or stones at the bottom of the tank as long as they are big enough that your turtle won’t try to eat them. Only one turtle species should live in any given tank, but most can coexist with some fish.

What do turtles eat?

All turtles (but not all tortoises) are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and meat. Aquatic turtles can eat a variety of foods, though they can survive on a diet of commercial turtle pellets and frozen or dried fish food. Alternatively, you can feed fresh foods to a turtle. Foods that are healthy and safe for turtles include insects like grubs and crickets, earthworms, small fish, and dark leafy greens such as kale and collard greens. Adult turtles only need to eat three to five times per week, and baby turtles may need to eat up to twice a day. In addition, turtles need a calcium supplement, usually in the form of a powder, dusted on their food two to three times per week.

What are the signs that a turtle is sick?

Aquatic turtles can live upward of 20 years, so anticipate having your shelled friend for quite some time! Healthy turtles should be active and alert, eat regularly, have a hard shell and clear skin free of lesions, and have clear eyes and nostrils. Note that turtles shed their scutes (plates that make up their shells) periodically.

These are some telltale signs that your turtle is unwell:

• Hyperactivity or lethargy
• Discharge from the eyes, mouth, or nose
• Discoloration or growths on the shell or skin
• Sneezing
• Not eating
• An overgrown beak
• Abnormal feces

If you notice any of these symptoms, take your turtle to the vet as soon as possible. Calcium deficiencies are relatively common in aquatic turtles, hence the recommendation to supplement their diets with calcium. Turtles often carry salmonella, which can be transmitted to and cause illness in humans. Always wash your hands after handling turtles or parts of their enclosure.

Though they may be tedious to care for, having an aquatic turtle as a pet is a rewarding and interesting experience. The various species of turtles have slightly different behaviors, so be sure to pick one that fits your personality. Soon, you’ll have a reptilian buddy to enjoy!

Though anemia in cats is treatable, it carries risks and requires special care from a veterinarian. What’s more, only a vet can diagnose anemia, but you may recognize some common red flags. If you think your cat is suffering from anemia, it’s essential to visit a veterinarian for medical attention. The sooner your pet receives help, the more likely it is they’ll have a positive outcome.

Types of anemia in cats

Anemia can be divided into two broad foams: Regenerative and nonregenerative:

• Regenerative anemia happens when the bone marrow attempts to respond to the reduced red blood cent count by producing new RBCs. Examples of this type include hemolytic anemia and blood loss anemia.

• Nonregenerative anemia occurs because the bone marrow has failed to produce new RBCs to replace those lost. It occurs due to kidney disease, bone marrow disorders, poor diet, and other chronic diseases.

It’s vital to note that multiple causes of anemia can be present in your pet. This tends to complicate the case, but it’s wise to listen to your vet’s advice.

Causes of cat anemia

KeepBear in mind that anemia is usually a symptom of many other conditions. Therefore, it can occur due to several reasons, as shown below:

Causes of regenerative anemia

• Blood loss
• Hemolysis
• Toxins
• Infections
• Genetic diseases

Causes of nonregenerative anemia

• Poor diet
• Kidney diseases
• Chronic diseases like liver disease, cancers, and adrenal disease
• Bone marrow disorders like feline leukemia virus and cancer

Signs of anemia in cats

The common signs of cat anemia include the following:

• Weakness
• Increased heart rate
• Pica
• Jaundice
• Paleness
• Pale pink or white gums
• Loss of appetite
• Drinking water excessively
• Lethargy

In addition to these signs, your cat may also show symptoms of an underlying disease, such as kidney disease, that’s causing the anemia. Cats that develop anemia gradually tend to show few signs until when the condition worsens.

Diagnosis of anemia

During your visit to a pet’s clinic, the vet will take a blood sample from your cat. The sample is placed in a machine that counts individual cells. Alternatively, the vet can carry out the packed cell volume (PCV) test to observe RBCs’ volume in the sample. The vet will use the test results to confirm that your cat has anemia. He or she will also use the results to determine whether the anemia is regenerative or nonregenerative.

Treatment: Increasing your cat’s red blood cells

Treating anemia in cats is usually specific, especially if your pet has an underlying condition. It can be supportive, symptomatic, or both. In supportive treatment, your cat gets a blood transfusion. This procedure is usually life-saving, particularly when the anemia is severe. Before the transfusion, the vet will determine their blood group and find a compatible donor. Severe cases might need hospitalization for easy monitoring of the condition.

Depending on the underlying condition, your vet may recommend several treatments, such as immunosuppressive drugs, antibiotics for infectious diseases, and iron supplements for iron deficiency. Some cases might also require surgery to address the underlying condition. If your cat has kidney disease, the vet can recommend long-term hormone treatments to help the kidneys produce RBCs. Steroid treatment or other immunomodulatory drugs are usually ideal for anemia that’s caused by an auto-immune disease.

If you’re looking to increase your cat’s iron, good sources include the following:

• Lean meat like turkey, chicken, beef, or pork (trim the fat off any pork products first)
• Fish
• Eggs (but only as a treat and not as a staple of their diet)

Check with your cat’s vet before making any changes to their diet.

Prevention of cat anemia

They say prevention is better than cure, so here are tips you can use to care for your cat to prevent the condition:

• Give balanced and nutritious cat food.
• Strive to keep your cat indoors to avoid injuries.
• Take your cat for veterinary tests at least once a year.
• Use parasite-prevention products to keep them safe from lice, ticks, fleas, and intestinal parasites.
• Ensure they are nowhere near toxins.

Bear in mind that some types of anemia are preventable when you follow the above tips. More importantly, always take any new signs seriously and seek medical attention.

Final thoughts

If your cat has anemia, don’t panic. Even though some anemia cases can be life-threatening, seeking early veterinary attention can help manage the condition. It’s even possible to reverse mild cases with the right veterinary care. The recovery period depends on the cause of the anemia. Many cats respond well to treatment with optimal care.