How long do Chihuahuas live?

 How long do Chihuahuas live?

Chihuahuas are one of the longest-living dog breeds, with a lifespan of 12 to 20 years or even longer with proper care.

Proper nutrition and regular exercise are crucial for extending the lifespan of Chihuahuas.

Chihuahuas are prone to dental issues, so dental care is essential to maintain their overall health and longevity.

Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect and address health issues early, potentially extending a Chihuahua's lifespan.

Chihuahuas are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to certain genetic conditions such as luxating patella and heart problems.

Obesity can significantly decrease a Chihuahua's lifespan, so maintaining a healthy weight through portion control and exercise is important.

Chihuahuas have a small stature, making them susceptible to injuries from falls or rough handling, which can impact their lifespan.

Providing a safe environment free from hazards and toxins can help prevent accidents that could shorten a Chihuahua's life.

Socialization and mental stimulation are important for a Chihuahua's overall well-being and can contribute to a longer, happier life.

Chihuahuas are sensitive to extreme temperatures, so it's essential to keep them comfortable in both hot and cold weather to avoid health issues that could shorten their lifespan.

Regular grooming, including nail trimming and ear cleaning, can prevent infections and other health problems that might affect a Chihuahua's lifespan.

Chihuahuas may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, which can impact their mental health and overall lifespan.

Providing a balanced diet with high-quality ingredients can support a Chihuahua's health and longevity.

Chihuahuas are known for their strong bonds with their owners, and positive social interactions can contribute to their emotional well-being and lifespan.

Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are resilient and adaptable companions who can live long, fulfilling lives with the right care and attention.

Cat Itchy Skin

 Cat Itchy Skin

Itchy skin in cats can be caused by various factors such as fleas, allergies, parasites like mites, fungal infections, dry skin, or even food sensitivities.

Flea Allergy Dermatitis: Fleas are a common culprit for itchy skin in cats. Some cats are allergic to flea saliva, leading to intense itching, scratching, and skin irritation.

Environmental Allergies: Cats can also develop allergies to environmental triggers like pollen, dust mites, or mold, resulting in itchy skin.

Food Allergies: Certain ingredients in cat food, such as beef, dairy, or grains, can trigger allergic reactions in cats, leading to itchy skin and other symptoms.

Parasitic Infections: Mites like ear mites or sarcoptic mange mites can cause intense itching and irritation in cats, particularly around the ears, head, and neck.

Fungal Infections: Fungal infections like ringworm can cause itchy, inflamed patches on the skin of cats. Ringworm is contagious and can spread to other pets and humans.

Dry Skin: Just like humans, cats can suffer from dry skin, especially in dry climates or during winter months. Dry skin can cause itching and flaking.

Secondary Infections: Excessive scratching due to itchiness can lead to secondary bacterial or yeast infections, exacerbating the skin issues.

Behavioral Issues: Sometimes, excessive grooming due to stress or anxiety can lead to itchy skin, known as psychogenic alopecia.

Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatment: It's crucial to have a veterinarian examine your cat to determine the underlying cause of the itchy skin. Treatment may include flea control, allergy management, antifungal medications, or dietary changes, depending on the diagnosis.

Learn more about feeding diabetic cats.

And feeding newborn kittens.

Image via Paul Hanaoka (Unsplash)

Zaha Hadid Designs

Zaha Hadid Designs 

Heydar Aliyev Center (Baku, Azerbaijan): A flowing, curved building known for its distinctive undulating form.

Guangzhou Opera House (Guangzhou, China): An iconic structure with a complex, asymmetric design, resembling two boulders.

MAXXI - National Museum of the 21st Century Arts (Rome, Italy): A contemporary art and architecture museum characterized by dynamic lines and interconnected spaces.

Zaha Hadid is known for her futuristic designs.

Image via KS Kyung (Unsplash)

Dog hacking and coughing

  Why is your dog coughing?

There are many reasons why your dog could be coughing. It's always best to see a veterinarian if your dog keeps coughing day after day. This is especially important if you can't readily identify a cause for their coughing, such as the presence of allergens in their environment.

Some dogs may cough briefly and stop. However, other dogs may cough and their coughing may be accompanied by difficulty breathing. It's important to see a veterinarian if a dog is coughing and can't breathe well. Persistent coughing along with difficulty breathing is a sign of congestive heart failure in dogs.

Congestive heart failure in dogs is a serious condition. However, if it's diagnosed early, your dog will have a better chance of living for several more years.

Dogs with congestive heart failure cough persistently because fluid starts to build up in their lungs. They also cough because their trachea is irritated. When a dog has congestive heart failure, their trachea can become irritated as their heart becomes bigger and pushes against their trachea.

When a dog is diagnosed with congestive heart failure, veterinarians will usually prescribe diuretics that help to reduce the buildup of fluid. This helps to reduce the coughing. 

A holistic veterinarian may also recommend natural diuretics for dogs that can be used as a part of their treatment regimen. However, natural diuretics for dogs should not be used to replace prescription diuretics when a dog has congestive heart failure.

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COVID and Dogs

 COVID and Dogs

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Dog separation anxiety

  Dog separation anxiety safety

Safety and self-injuries are issues for dogs with separation anxiety. This applies to dogs of all ages.

Dogs might try to escape from their home or any other area in which they're confined. Even if they're placed in a crate, they could try to escape from their crate.

These dogs often damage their teeth, paws and other parts of their body as they try to chew through doors and windows.

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Onion and baby food toxicity in cats

   Can cats eat baby food with garlic and onions? 

Cats cannot eat baby food with garlic and onions. Cats should not be given any type of food that has garlic. Cats cannot eat baby food or any other type of food that has onions.

Cats can end up at the veterinary clinic if they're given food that has garlic or onions. If a cat is ill and you want to relax them to have something to eat, you can give them a small amount of meat baby food.

This meat based baby food should not contain any additives. For example, you can give a cat unseasoned meat baby food that doesn't have any additives.

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