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Tag: holistic cat care

  • Constipation in Cats: Who Got Me Blocked? | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    When your feline companion struggles with constipation, it can be uncomfortable and concerning for both of you. Understanding natural ways to prevent and manage this common digestive issue can help keep your cat healthy and happy.

    What Is Constipation?

    Constipation happens when your cat has difficulty passing stool or doesn’t have regular bowel movements. You might notice your cat straining in the litter box, producing small or hard stools, or going less frequently than normal. Some cats may show signs of discomfort or avoid the litter box altogether.

    Common Causes of Constipation

    Constipation in cats can happen for several different reasons. Here are some of the most common causes:

    Physical Issues:

    • Hairballs – When cats groom themselves, they can swallow hair that builds up in their digestive system
    • Dehydration – Not drinking enough water can make stools hard and dry
    • Obesity – Overweight cats may have more difficulty passing stools
    • Lack of exercise – Inactive cats may have slower digestive systems

    Medical Conditions:

    • Kidney disease – Can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
    • High calcium levels (hypercalcemia) – Can cause constipation along with other symptoms
    • Painful conditions – Arthritis or anal gland problems may make it hurt to defecate, so cats avoid it
    • Intestinal blockages – Foreign objects, masses, or tumors can physically block stool passage

    Other Factors:

    • Diet issues – Low fiber diets or sudden food changes
    • Litter box problems – If a cat doesn’t like their litter box, they may hold their stool
    • Medications – Some drugs can cause constipation as a side effect
    • Megacolon – A condition where the colon becomes enlarged and loses normal function

    Natural Prevention Strategies

    Hydration is Key: Water intake plays a crucial role in preventing constipation. Encourage your cat to drink more by providing fresh water in multiple locations throughout your home. Many cats prefer running water, so consider using a cat water fountain. Adding wet food to your cat’s diet can also boost moisture intake significantly.

    Fiber-Rich Diet: A balanced diet with appropriate fiber content helps keep things moving smoothly through the digestive system. High-quality cat food typically contains adequate fiber, but you can discuss adding canned pumpkin (plain, not pie filling) to meals with your veterinarian. Start with small amounts, about half a teaspoon mixed into food.

    Exercise and Activity: Regular physical activity stimulates the digestive system and helps prevent constipation. Engage your cat with interactive toys, laser pointers, or feather wands. Even 10-15 minutes of daily playtime can make a difference in their overall health.

    Stress Management: Stress can affect your cat’s digestive system. Maintain a calm environment, keep litter boxes clean, and provide quiet spaces where your cat can retreat. Multiple litter boxes (one per cat plus one extra) in peaceful locations encourage regular bathroom habits.

    Management Approaches

    Grooming: Long-haired cats especially benefit from regular brushing to reduce hairball formation, which can contribute to constipation. This simple routine helps prevent ingested hair from building up in the digestive tract.

    Litter Box Considerations: Ensure litter boxes are easily accessible, especially for senior cats who may have mobility challenges. Keep them clean, as cats may avoid dirty boxes, leading to holding stool longer than healthy.

    When to Seek Help

    While these natural remedies for cat constipation can help, always consult your veterinarian if your cat shows signs of constipation. What appears to be constipation could actually indicate other health issues requiring professional attention. Your veterinarian can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options along with natural remedies for cat constipation tailored to your cat’s specific needs.

    Remember, prevention is always easier than treatment, so incorporating these natural strategies into your cat’s daily routine can promote long-term digestive health.

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  • Managing Chronic Pain in Cats Naturally | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    When your feline companion experiences ongoing discomfort, finding gentle ways to help them feel better becomes a top priority. Chronic pain in cats can stem from conditions like arthritis, dental disease, or past injuries. While veterinary care remains essential, several natural approaches can complement traditional treatments.

    Environmental Modifications

    Creating a comfortable living space is one of the most effective ways to help a cat with chronic pain. Consider adding soft, supportive bedding in warm areas of your home. Heated beds or warming pads designed specifically for cats can soothe achy joints and muscles. Make sure food bowls, water dishes, and litter boxes are easily accessible without requiring jumping or climbing. Ramps or steps can help cats reach favorite spots without strain.

    Gentle Movement and Exercise

    While rest is important, gentle activity helps maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility. Encourage short play sessions with interactive toys that don’t require intense jumping or running. Swimming or water therapy, when available through rehabilitation facilities, provides excellent low-impact exercise. The key is keeping your cat moving without causing additional discomfort.

    Massage and Physical Touch

    Gentle massage can work wonders for cats experiencing chronic discomfort. Use slow, soft strokes along their body, avoiding areas that seem sensitive. This not only helps relax tense muscles but also strengthens your bond. Some cats also benefit from professional animal massage therapy or acupuncture performed by trained veterinary professionals.

    Weight Management

    Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on joints and improves overall well-being. Work with your veterinarian to establish appropriate feeding amounts and choose high-quality nutrition that supports joint health. Even losing a small amount of excess weight can make a significant difference in your cat’s comfort level.

    Supplements and Diet

    Omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin are popular supplements that may support joint health. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any supplements to ensure they’re appropriate for your cat’s specific situation and won’t interact with existing medications.

    While these natural approaches can provide meaningful support, they work best alongside professional veterinary care. Your veterinarian can diagnose the underlying cause of pain and recommend a comprehensive treatment plan. They might suggest combining these natural methods with medications or other therapies for optimal results. Never hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you notice changes in your cat’s behavior, mobility, or comfort level.

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  • Oral Ulcers in Cats | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    What Are Mouth Ulcers in Cats?

    Mouth ulcers are open sores that can appear anywhere in your cat’s mouth, including the gums, tongue, and inner cheeks. They often appear as red, inflamed areas and can cause significant discomfort. These ulcers can develop from various causes, including dental disease, viral infections like feline calicivirus, immune system problems, or even trauma from eating something sharp.

    Common signs your cat may have mouth ulcers include difficulty eating, excessive drooling, bad breath, pawing at the mouth, and reluctance to eat hard food. Some cats may also show signs of pain when their face is touched.

    Understanding the Root Causes

    It’s important to understand that mouth ulcers can stem from different underlying issues. Chronic inflammation of the gums and mouth tissues, known as gingivostomatitis, is a common cause. Viral infections, particularly feline calicivirus, can also trigger ulcer formation. Sometimes, the cause may be related to stress, nutritional deficiencies, or immune system imbalances.

    Holistic Approaches to Support Healing

    While these approaches should never replace professional veterinary care, they may complement traditional treatment:

    Nutritional Support: A high-quality diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation. Some cat parents find success with raw or minimally processed diets, though this should be discussed with your veterinarian first.

    Stress Reduction: Since stress can worsen oral health issues, creating a calm environment is crucial. Consider using pheromone diffusers, maintaining consistent routines, and providing quiet spaces for your cat to retreat.

    Natural Supplements: Some holistic practitioners recommend supplements like lysine for viral-related ulcers, probiotics for immune support, and vitamin C for tissue healing. However, dosing must be appropriate for cats, as their nutritional needs differ significantly from humans.

    Gentle Oral Care: Soft food diets can reduce pain while eating.

    Important Considerations

    Remember that mouth ulcers can indicate serious underlying conditions that require professional diagnosis and treatment. Some cases may need antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or even dental procedures.

    Never attempt to treat mouth ulcers solely with home remedies, as delayed proper treatment can lead to more serious complications. What works for one cat may not work for another.

    The most effective approach combines professional veterinary care with appropriate supportive measures. Your veterinarian can determine the underlying cause of the ulcers and recommend the best treatment plan. They can also advise which holistic approaches might be safe and beneficial for your specific cat. With proper care and patience, most cats with mouth ulcers can return to comfortable, healthy lives

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  • When Cancer Strikes Your Cat: Recognizing Signs and Fighting Back | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    It’s a fact of life that even beautiful creatures like cats can face cancer. Lymphoma, skin cancers, and mammary tumors top the list of cancer threats. However, early action can turn the tide toward healing and precious time together.

    What Signals to Watch For

    Lumps that weren’t there yesterday. Sudden weight loss stealing the fluff and life from their frame. Appetite fading or struggles while eating. Odd behavior or sudden mood shifts. Each subtle sign carries a heavy message begging for veterinary attention. Trust these signals because responding quickly means opening doors to better outcomes and more joyous moments. Never dismiss a small change; vigilance exudes love and protection.

    Fighting Back

    Tailoring treatment matters deeply. Surgery removes tumors piercing the body’s defenses; chemotherapy targets hidden rogue cells; radiation attacks with pinpoint accuracy. The choice hinges on the cancer’s type and stage, plus the cat’s stamina and spirit. Treatment aims to improve wellness, not cause suffering. Navigating this path requires balancing hope with honesty. Each tender decision honors the life beneath the fur and resurrection from despair.

    Supportive Care for Healing

    Healing thrives on more than medicine. Rich nutrition rebuilds strength, pain management soothes aching bodies, and a calm environment melts fear and anxiety. Supporting a cat through cancer involves gentle touches and unwavering presence. Every small gesture, from soft bedding to quiet companionship, becomes a lifeline crossing wildernesses of doubt toward peace and comfort.

    Holistic Prevention

    Guarding health begins before danger knocks. Early spaying guards female cats from mammary tumors, reducing risks dramatically. Keeping cats indoors keeps harsh sun and predators away, lowering skin cancer chances. Adding antioxidant-rich foods and herbal supplements enhances resilience and vitality. Turmeric and omega-3 oils wield natural power to strengthen immunity and soothe inflammation. Fresh air, indoor play, and stress reduction complete the shield, nurturing a longer, happier life.

    Holding On to Hope

    Cancer tests every heart’s courage. But love transforms fear into fierce devotion. Acting swiftly, embracing holistic care, chasing wellness with every step — these form a lifeboat. Fight for every moment, cherish every purr, and hold tightly to hope.

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  • How Cats Hide Acid Reflux and What You Must Know | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Cats hide discomfort, making it easy to miss serious health issues like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This condition causes stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, causing burning pain and inflammation. Unlike humans, cats rarely vocalize their distress, so acid reflux often goes unnoticed until complications arise. Early detection and management can save a cat from chronic discomfort and more severe diseases.

    The Pain Behind Your Cat’s Quiet Behavior

    Cats instinctively mask signs of pain or illness to avoid appearing vulnerable. GERD symptoms in cats might include subtle changes: reduced appetite, drooling, pawing at the mouth, or occasional regurgitation. These signs often get dismissed as normal fussiness. Untreated acid reflux injures the esophagus lining, leading to worsening irritation, ulcers, or even strictures that make swallowing difficult. Recognizing these early signs helps protect against chronic suffering and costly treatments down the road by getting a veterinary evaluation in time .

    Holistic Ways to Ease and Prevent GERD Discomfort

    Supporting a cat’s digestive health begins with simple lifestyle changes. Feeding smaller, frequent meals lowers stomach pressure, reducing acid spillover. Choose highly digestible, low-fat diets to decrease reflux triggers. Elevating the feeding station helps use gravity against acid flow. Integrating natural supplements like slippery elm can soothe the esophageal lining. Always check with a veterinarian before introducing herbs to ensure safety.

    Stress also influences GERD; creating a serene environment with hiding spots and regular routines minimizes flare-ups.

    Protecting Cats from Acid Damage

    When dietary and environmental changes don’t suffice, medical intervention becomes necessary. Veterinarians often prescribe acid-reducing medications that protect the esophagus and ease pain. Prokinetic agents encourage the stomach to empty faster, lowering acid exposure. Regular follow-ups help monitor progress and adjust treatment. Combining safe medical therapies with holistic care provides cats the best chance at lasting relief.

    Protecting Cats Through Knowledge and Action

    Caring for a cat with GERD requires attention to subtle changes and prompt response. Maintain a detailed record of symptoms, food changes, and behavior shifts. Early veterinary consultations prevent severe organ damage and improve quality of life. Discuss all treatment options openly, embracing both holistic and conventional approaches. Sharing experiences with fellow cat lovers can initiate helpful conversations and spread awareness, safeguarding more cats from unnoticed acid reflux.

    Don’t wait for visible distress. Trust instincts, watch closely, and act early to keep cats comfortable and thriving.

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  • What Every Cat Parent Should Know about Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    A once-vibrant feline companion slowly loses weight despite eating vigorously, leaving you puzzled and heartbroken. This subtle yet serious condition might be exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), where the pancreas falters in producing essential digestive enzymes. Without these enzymes, your cat’s body cannot properly break down food, leading to malnutrition and discomfort.

    EPI often hides behind vague symptoms

    Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in cats shows symptoms such as persistent weight loss, large-volume, greasy stools, a dull coat stained around the tail, and ravenous hunger that never leads to weight gain. Unlike more acute illnesses, EPI’s signs can creep in gradually, causing frustration and worry as the cause remains elusive. Often linked to chronic inflammation of the pancreas, EPI quietly undermines your cat’s vitality.

    Understanding EPI’s Impact

    Imagine the pancreas as a master chef preparing critical digestive enzymes. When this chef slips away, meals become a source of struggle rather than nourishment. Your cat’s intestines do not receive the power to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, resulting in nutrient loss and digestive upset. This imbalance can also lead to secondary problems such as bacterial overgrowth or vitamin B12 deficiency, further draining your cat’s energy and health.

    Timely diagnosis through specialized blood tests, including feline trypsin-like immunoreactivity, shines a light on this hidden illness. Through medical guidance, digestive enzyme supplementation becomes the cornerstone of therapy. Enzyme powders mixed thoroughly into meals restore digestive harmony and improve nutrient absorption.

    Holistic Care

    Holistic care plays a vital complementary role. Gentle, anti-inflammatory diets tailored to ease digestive stress can soothe irritated intestines. Natural supplements like probiotics support healthy gut flora, which often suffer alongside pancreatic issues. Attention to cobalamin (vitamin B12) levels, through supplementation when needed, supports cellular energy and immunity.

    Creating a calm, stress-reduced environment benefits digestive health profoundly. Chronic stress can aggravate gastrointestinal symptoms. Interactive, peaceful mealtimes and consistency in feeding schedules help stabilize digestion, supporting overall wellbeing.

    Awareness and proactive engagement about exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in cats can transform it from a mysterious decline into a manageable chapter of your cat’s life. The path demands patience and keen observation but offers hope. With enzyme therapy, nutritional adjustments, and careful monitoring, many cats regain weight, enjoy improved energy, and savor life anew.

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  • When Your Cat Turns Away From the Bowl: Feeding Challenges and Solutions | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Helen Keller was of the opinion that we could never learn to be brave and patient if there were only joy in the world. Watching a beloved cat refuse food is also one of those no joy moments. However, as a cat parent, solving all your feline child problems is a responsibility — and feeding difficulties in cats are not to be taken lightly. Feeding difficulties can affect feline health. Understanding why cats hesitate at mealtime empowers swift and appropriate action.

    Why Does My Cat Stop Eating? 

    Cats rarely eat when unwell, making appetite loss a red flag for underlying illness, pain, or stress. Sudden changes in environment, introduction of new feline companions, or alterations in diet often spark anxiety, causing avoidance of the food bowl. They may exhibit cautious, tense behavior—flattened ears, crouching, or constant alertness—reflecting discomfort during feeding. Clean, fresh food in a quiet, safe spot encourages eating. Overwhelming a cat with numerous food options creates confusion rather than appeal; simplicity soothes the senses.

    Restore Appetite with Gentle Encouragement and Strategic Feeding

    Reignite your cat’s interest by offering familiar favorites with enticing aromas, such as chicken or fish treats, but limit these to prevent nutritional imbalance. Warm the food slightly to enhance scent and appeal. Feeding multiple small meals throughout the day mimics natural hunting habits and reduces stress. Puzzle feeders or placing kibbles around elevated, private spots engages hunting instincts and mental stimulation, combating boredom and inactivity while reducing anxiety during feeding times. Avoid competitive or communal feeding for multi-cat households; separate bowls in private zones help prevent guarding behavior and social stress.

    Preventive Measures to Prevent Feeding Difficulties in Cats

    Creating a harmonious feeding environment forms the foundation of lasting health. Position food away from litter and water bowls, where the cat feels secure. Routine and consistency in feeding times build confidence and reduce anxiety. Monitor body condition regularly, especially in older or chronically ill cats. Hydration remains key: encourage water intake alongside feeding to avoid dehydration when appetite falters. Consult veterinary professionals promptly if eating declines persist; appetite stimulants or medical interventions may be necessary but should complement environmental and behavioral support.

    Each refusal to eat echoes an underlying message. Responding with patience, keen observation, and thoughtful adjustments offers cats the best chance to regain strength and joy. Feeding difficulties in cats hold hidden stories—illness, stress, or discomfort—all demanding attention beyond the food bowl. The right feeding strategy nourishes body and spirit, forging a deeper bond through respect for feline needs and nature’s rhythms.

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  • When Your Cat Becomes Your Emotional Mirror | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Have you ever noticed your cat seeming to reflect your mood, following your every move, or even adopting your daily routines? This behavior, known as emotional mirroring in cats is a result of a connection that goes far beyond simple companionship. Understanding this phenomenon unlocks new ways to support your feline’s emotional health and deepen your shared bond.

    Your Emotional State Affects Your Cat’s Well-being

    Cats possess a remarkable sensitivity to human feelings. When you feel joyful and energetic, your cat often mirrors that liveliness with playful antics. Conversely, during moments of sadness or stress, many cats respond by mirroring the same emotions. This emotional resonance happens because cats integrate visual and auditory cues from humans to recognize emotions. Studies show cats not only mirror moods but may also adopt personality traits influenced by the emotional climate of their household. This means your emotional state directly shapes your cat’s well-being, making emotional awareness a vital part of caring for them.

    Recognizing Stress and Anxiety

    While emotional mirroring strengthens bonds, it can sometimes reflect negative states. Cats living with highly anxious or neurotic humans often develop stress-related behaviors or health issues. Signs include excessive grooming, withdrawal, or aggression. Understanding your cat’s body language during these times is crucial. Avoidance behaviors like hiding or eye aversion signal fear, while actions such as swiping or vocalizing may indicate frustration or distress. Recognizing these signs early allows you to intervene before stress escalates.

    Holistic Ways to Foster Emotional Balance and Well-Being

    Supporting your cat’s emotional health requires mindful, holistic strategies:

    • Create a calm environment: Soft lighting, quiet spaces, and consistent routines help reduce anxiety.
    • Engage in gentle play: Interactive toys and daily play sessions provide positive outlets for energy and frustration.
    • Practice mindful presence: Spend quiet time together, allowing your cat to approach you on their terms.
    • Use soothing scents: Natural pheromone diffusers can promote relaxation.
    • Maintain consistent care: Regular feeding times and vet visits ensure physical health supports emotional stability.
    • Manage your own stress: Since cats mirror human moods, cultivating your emotional wellness benefits them directly.

    Emotional mirroring reveals the depth of your cat’s connection with you. Your feline friend mirrors your feelings. This bond can offer comfort, companionship, and a unique channel of communication. Recognizing and nurturing this connection helps you enhance not only your own life but your cat’s emotional life as well. 


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    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

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  • What You Need to Know About Toxoplasma Gondii Infection in Cats | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Toxoplasma gondii hides quietly within many cats, often without causing obvious illness. Yet, this microscopic parasite carries a risk that extends beyond your feline companion. Cats serve as the only hosts where T. gondii can reproduce sexually, shedding infectious oocysts into the environment through their feces. These oocysts can contaminate soil, water, and surfaces, posing infection risks to humans and other animals. Detecting this parasite early prevents the silent spread and protects everyone around your cat.

    Why Testing Matters

    Testing your cat for Toxoplasma gondii reveals whether it carries or sheds the parasite. Cats with antibodies have usually been infected before and are unlikely to shed infectious oocysts again. However, cats without antibodies are vulnerable to infection and can shed oocysts for up to two weeks after first exposure, contaminating their environment. Knowing your cat’s status helps you take targeted precautions, especially if anyone in your household is pregnant or immunocompromised as these groups are at higher risk of severe toxoplasmosis.

    Recognizing When Your Cat Needs Help

    Though many cats show no symptoms, toxoplasmosis can cause serious illness in some, including fever, lethargy, eye inflammation, respiratory issues, or neurological signs like seizures and muscle pain. If your cat displays any unusual signs, prompt veterinary evaluation and testing for T. gondii antibodies become crucial. Early diagnosis allows timely treatment, often with antibiotics such as clindamycin, which can prevent complications and improve outcomes.

    Holistic Approaches to Protect and Support Your Cat

    Beyond medication, holistic strategies reduce infection risk and support your cat’s immune health:

    • Keep cats indoors to prevent hunting infected prey, a common infection source.
    • Give your cat commercial dry or canned food.
    • Clean litter boxes daily since oocysts become infectious only after 1-5 days outside the host.
    • Provide a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients to boost immune defenses.
    • Use natural supplements like probiotics to maintain gut health, potentially limiting parasite colonization.
    • Maintain regular veterinary check-ups to monitor overall health and catch infections early.

    If you feed raw food to your cat, the following precautions can help reduce the risk:

    • Freeze raw meat for several days at sub-zero temperatures (0°F or -18°C) before feeding, as freezing can greatly reduce the chance of infection by inactivating the parasite. 
    • Handle raw meat with care: wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat, and clean all utensils, cutting boards, and surfaces with hot soapy water to avoid cross-contamination. 
    • Also, keep cats indoors to prevent hunting and exposure to infected prey animals.


    Infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing complications from toxoplasmosis. Pregnant women, or those trying to become pregnant, do not need to give up their cats – but they do need to modify their kitty-care routine. Cats can pass on toxoplasmosis (caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite) after eating infected rodents, birds or other small animals. The parasite is spread in the cat’s solid waste and can have severe consequences on a developing baby or anyone with a compromised immune system. If you’re pregnant, assign litter box cleanup to another person; if no one else is available, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands with warm soapy water – something we should all do anyway.

    According to the CDC, 60 million people are infected with toxoplasmosis, but never know it because their immune systems generally prevent the parasite from causing illness. The parasite can cross the blood brain barrier and persist in the brain for a long time resulting in stress and confusion. It can also induce risk taking behavior.

    Taking preventive action against Toxoplasma gondii isn’t just about your cat’s health—it safeguards your entire household. Understanding infection risks and adopting practical prevention and management steps help you reduce exposure to this stealthy parasite. 


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    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

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