FAQs

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Here are some common questions pet owners have about their pets' behavior.

If you have a question that is not listed below or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact our office.

Removing dew claws is not a necessary procedure, but rather a preference of some pet owners. It is recommended for pets who frequently dig and are at risk of ripping the claws off. If your dog is a serial digger, ask us about dew-claw removal, so that we may help your pet avoid a painful and unnecessary experience.
The timing of tooth loss in pets can differ. Generally, dogs shed their baby teeth when they are between five to eight months old, and cats usually lose theirs when they are three to six months old. As their adult teeth begin to grow and develop, the old teeth will fall out.
Regularly removing the fluid buildup around your pet’s eyes is essential to prevent harmful bacterial infections. You can find a variety of specialized products for cleaning and sanitizing eye secretions at pet stores. If you prefer not to purchase any such products, a clean and damp cloth can be used to wipe the discharge gently. However, it’s important to avoid making any contact with the eye itself.
To keep your furniture scratch-free and your cat healthy, make sure to trim the sharp ends of their claws. This will also prevent ingrown nails and injury. It’s not a must-do, but many vets recommend it. So, don’t forget to give your furry friend a little pawdicure every now and then!
Cats are pretty self-sufficient and don’t require grooming as they have a built-in cleaning mechanism with their tongue, which is designed to clean fur. However, if you have a long-haired cat, it might be a good idea to consider shaving them during hot summer months, but this is not a must-do.
For dogs not used to having short hair, shaving can be problematic, as it can make their skin susceptible to harmful UV rays, which is especially concerning for outdoor dogs. Instead of shaving, outdoor dogs should have access to shade and water to stay cool. It’s best to consult a certified pet groomer before making any changes to your pet’s hair.
When female pets that are not spayed go through a heat cycle, they will experience menstruation. You can use pet diapers to manage any fluid discharge during this time and keep your female pets away from male pets that may attempt to mount them to avoid pregnancy. If you’re not planning to breed your pet, it’s recommended to have them spayed. This can prevent various health issues, including some that are life-threatening.
Dogs may eat their feces for several reasons, such as trying to “hide the evidence,” boredom, or lack of proper nutrition. To stop this behavior, you can add enzyme supplements or higher-grade dog food to their diet, add unpleasant-tasting foods, clean up after your dog daily, or use a repulsive substance like hot sauce or cayenne pepper to cover the feces.
Circling before lying down is a natural behavior for dogs inherited from their wild ancestors. Dogs in the wild would trample down grass and mark their territory before laying down. It is also a way to make the area more comfortable.
Cats may refuse their litter box for various reasons, such as a full litter box, medical issues like urinary tract infections, or changes in their environment. If you are unsure why your cat is avoiding their litter box, it is best to schedule a veterinary exam to rule out any medical issues.
Most male dogs’ testicles usually descend when they are between 4 to 9 months old. If your dog is over a year old and this hasn’t happened yet, it’s a good idea to have a vet check him. Pushing on the testicles yourself in order to check on them can cause harm, so a professional exam is recommended.
The reason why pets eat grass is not entirely clear. Some experts believe it is because they were once wild animals and grass was part of their diet. Others suggest it is to relieve stomach pain or induce vomiting. Regardless, it is generally considered safe for pets to eat grass.
Cats may knead objects for several reasons, such as to mark their territory or to try to make a comfortable spot to lie down. Some theories suggest it is a leftover behavior from kittenhood or a way to stimulate milk flow from their mother’s nipples.
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Dollys Animal Clinic offers urgent care, orthopedic surgery, pet wellness care, in-house laboratory testing, and dental care for dogs and cats in Tamiami, Sweetwater, West Kendall, Westchester.

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