Vectors of diseases
Pets are the best companions we can find. Research shows that people who own pets are more physically fit, have great self esteem, and are less lonely compared to others. Researchers currently believe that pets are the best emotional and social support for an average person.
Pets require the best care and proper treatment, which includes expenses. A few very common pets we all have are dogs, cats, birds and aquatic animals. Sometimes, we tend to forget that they can get sick as well and spread diseases. So for the wellbeing of our pets, we need to know what common diseases pets can face and how to prevent them from harming us and our pets.
Dogs
Worms are very common internal parasites that feast on dogs. Tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms are the most common ones. Worms can make dogs feel uncomfortable. Signs that your dog may have worms include weight loss, diarrhoea - which includes blood - and scooting on his bottom.
If these symptoms show, take your dog to a nearby vet where they will treat your dog because each worm requires different treatment. Cures usually include oral medication. Never try to treat worms by yourself.
Fleas are parasites that create a great hassle for our canine friends. Fleas are a very common problem dogs face but they are also easy to cure. Signs include excessive scratching, hair loss and hot spots. Fleas, if not properly treated can create allergic reactions and infections that lead to anaemia from blood loss. For treatment, take your pet to a vet where they will suggest the right flea medicines like shampoos or sprays.
Cats
Fleas and worms are also common in cats and usually one leads to another. Fur attracts fleas, which lead to infection and anaemia. Worms occur by swallowing fleas that travel throughout their furry body. To cure this, tackle with the fleas first by shampoos or sprays and then go for medication to get rid of the worms.
Birds
Salmonella is very common among feeder birds. This begins as an intestinal tract infection and symptoms include diarrhoea and ruffled feathers. If such symptoms are shown, they tend to die within three days. This spreads at feeding stations where healthy birds eat food that is contaminated by the droppings of sick birds. Salmonella can also be transmitted between people so wearing gloves is a must if the owner is handling infected birds.
Ways to avoid these diseases are to clean the feeder every week. If any dead or sick bird is present in the same cage, separate them to save the healthy birds. Avoid throwing food at the same place since the leftover food creates fungi.
Fish
Ragged tail fins is a bacterial infection that cause tails and fins to rot. Fishes that are bullied by their mates that nip on their fins or tails usually get this. Signs include change in tails or fins and their vibrant colours that begin to fade. To treat this, you may change the water to see if there is a difference. But if this is caused by infections then adding aquarium salt and other chemicals that cleanse the water may help.
Turtles
Respiratory infection is a common and deadly disease among turtles. This usually occurs from lack of basking and water temperatures. Symptoms include breathing with its mouth open and coughing/sneezing. For treatment, providing a warm and secure environment is helpful. Also do not keep them out of water since they cannot be fed when dry.
Pets are already the best living beings. They are fun and lovable, so we want them to stay healthy and safe. It is our responsibility to cure any problems they face since they are dependent on us. After all, every life matters. Even of those that cannot speak.
By Rimjhim Huda
Comments