2025 is the year of the Cat!

In the world of pets, people spend a lot of time focusing on the topics and issues about dogs, but this year South Town Animal Hospital wanted to highlight our feline friends!  Considering that cats are actually the number one domestic pet in the US with a whopping 73 million cats owned over 63 million dogs. It is only right that we highlight our funny, exciting, inquisitive, sensational cat.  We will begin our Year of the Cat with some Cat Chronicles where we talk about some fun unknown facts about cats! Let’s leap right in!

Feline Fact 1.) Cats can sleep up to 16 hours a day on average!

Cat naps were coined from our feline friends.  Cats often get bored or want to spend time conserving energy and like to enjoy a good old-fashioned snooze.  Cats are typically most active at dawn and dusk, so the rest of the time is fair game for sleep.  Even so, you do know your cat best, so if it seems like your cat is sleeping more than usual, sleep can also mean signs of fighting infection, injury, or stress.  Make note of your cat’s typical schedule and if any major changes please contact a doctor.

Feline Fact 2.) Cats are actually lactose intolerant!

On the contrary to popular belief, milk and other lactose related products actually cause stomach issues in cats.  Giving milk to your kitty might seem like a treat, but as your cat grows into adulthood they become more and more likely unable to break down the enzymes in lactose products in return causing diarrhea and possible vomiting.      

Feline Fact 3.) A healthy house cat can run up to 30mph!  

HOLY SMOKES!  Healthy cats can run faster than the average person can ride a bike!  Cats are fast and fierce mammals!   

Feline Fact 4.)  In the course of just seven years a single pair of cats and their offspring can produce a staggering 420,000 kittens!!!!  

This is why spaying and neutering is vital to our environment.  There are 60 million feral or homeless cats alone in the US today.  Spaying and neutering your cat is the best way to help control the population.  

Feline Fact 5.)   Cats have no flat teeth for grinding! 

Cats are carnivores, so all their teeth are made for tearing meat.  Flat teeth that are made for grinding vegetation and cats do not need this feature.  This is why it is imperative to feed your cat foods that resemble the carnivorous diet.  Wet or canned diets are preferable for cats.  

Feline Fact 6.) Majority of the cat’s meow for their humans, not other cats!

We all know cats can be vocal creatures, but what you may not know is that in the early years of domestication, cats figured out they could get their owners attention by meowing at them.  Cats typically do not meow at each other to communicate.  They might hiss or growl, but the meow is saved for their human counterpart signifying attention or affection. This is not to be mistaken with constant yowling or howling.  There are times when cats can be overly talkative and there may be a hidden health issue.  Blood Testing and examination may be helpful in ruling out any underlying conditions.  

Feline Fact 7.)  Cats have a third eyelid! 

Cats actually have a third eyelid that protects the eye from dust and debris.  If you see your cat’s third eyelid that is not retracting this could be a sign of illness or infection.  

Feline Fact 8.)  Cats spend 2-5 hours a day grooming! 

Cats overall groom themselves much of their waking hours. There are times when cats become stressed and they can actually over groom.  This is when calling a veterinary professional would be the best bet.  

Cats are fascinating creatures.  They make unique, fun, funny and at times low maintenance pets.  Considering they don’t crave the attention as dogs, many of times underlying illnesses and conditions can get missed.  That is why it is critical to have your cat checked by a veterinarian every year. 

To honor cats this year we are offering $20.00 off all Healthy Wellness Examines for cats.  This offer stands until May of 2025.  Let’s get our cats the attention they deserve and celebrate THE YEAR OF THE CAT!!!!

The weather is warm. The sun is shining and families can finally be outside to spend time with each other. But there is one important member of the family that is missing from the group. Who, you may ask? Well, let me tell you! The family dog! Your dog needs exercise and to spend time outdoors as much as you do, so why not allow them to join in?  You may be thinking that considering the temperature is 85 degrees outside, is the ground too hot for your beloved pet to be outside? There are a few simple ways to avoid any unwanted injuries. 

1. Take your shoe off and walk around barefoot or simply rest the palm of your hand on the surface. If you can not withstand the temperature of the ground for 7-10 seconds then it is too hot for your dog to walk on.
2. Check the temperature before going outside. If the temperature is 85-90℉ the temperature of brick surfaces will heat up to 115℉, concrete up to 125℉, and asphalt up to 140℉. Imagine walking on a sidewalk while it’s that hot? Ouch!!
3. Exercise your pet in the early morning or late evening when the temperatures tend to be lower. 
4. If you absolutely need to walk your dog while the weather is still warm outside, walk the shortest route or walk in an area that is grassy or has dirt.
5. Take frequent breaks and check your pet’s pads. When the sidewalks are too hot, blisters, loose flaps of skin, and red ulcerated patches can occur. This will require treatment by a veterinarian. 
6. If you live in an area that is hot all of the time and has no shade or dirt paths, shop at your local pet store or online retailer for pet booties or shoes. They’re as easy as putting on your own shoes and you don’t have to tie them! Common brands are Pawz, Ruffwear boots, and Ultra Paws.
7. And remember to keep those furry little companions well hydrated and rested for when the air is too hot there is always a risk of hyperthermia.

Summertime is just as fun for our pets as it is for us.  Most dogs want to be outside and exploring the world around them, we just need to be careful that our animals are staying cool and safe.  Any questions or concerns about hot weather injuries, please call the hospital at (847)695-7387 or contact us at southtownanimalhospital.com.  

“Healthy Pets, Longer Lives”

~Madison Hoffman

Summer is a time of gathering, having fun, and being around people that you love. Our dogs want to join in on the fun as well! As we include our pets in our backyard barbecues on the Fourth of July, we have to remember that not everything is as bright and shiny to them as it is to us. 

Here are 5 ways to help calm your nervous pet during the summer holiday.

1. Know your dogs’ triggers.
   1. Be observant of your dog’s behavior as the fireworks are being set off. Watch for barking, pacing, hiding, shaking and salivating.  
2. Turn on the television or radio to help drown out the noise of the fireworks.
   1. Turning on a fan, white noise machine, or air conditioner will also help reduce how much your pet can hear.
3. Look into an anxiety wrap or find an old fitted shirt of yours to help make your dog feel more secure.
   1. The scent that your old t-shirt releases will help as well!
4. Allow your pet to find their ‘safe haven spot’. Once your pet has chosen their spot let them be and don’t try to coax them out. Trying to coax them out will cause more stress.
   1. This may include under a bed, hiding in your closet, their crate or bathroom.
5. Pheromones that come in a spray or plug in may help, such as Adaptil or Feliway.
   1. These sprays imitate the properties of the natural pheromones of the lactating mother that provides kittens or puppies a calming sense of well- being. 
6.  An oral herbal treat that serves as a relaxant called Composure Pro may help as well.  This is a blend of vitamins that work together to support balanced behavior in your dog or cat. 

Some dogs still require medications to also help “calm the nerves.” Consult your veterinarian before using any type of medication.  

Try these suggestions to see if your dog remains relaxed during the nighttime show. Although we may feel excited and in a celebratory mood, don’t forget about your pets.  Helping our loved ones get through a busy night of loud noises may make it the best Fourth of July for everyone in your family. 

South Town Animal Hospital is here for you and your pets. If you have any questions call us at (847)695-7387 or contact us at reception@southtownanimalhospital.com

Written by: Madison Hoffman

When the month of May rolls around Springtime is in the air, the flowers are in full bloom, and our pets are just as eager as we are to get out and enjoy the fresh air.  Often we forget that although we all want to have fun in the sun, we do need to be cautious that our pets don’t ingest some of these beautiful plants.  

Listed below are some of the most commonly planted and sprouting florals for the season that families need to be careful around their pets.

Lilies: Lilies are one of the leading plants ingested that are highly toxic to both dogs and cats.  More so in cats, if even the water from the vase is ingested it can cause kidney failure.  

Symptoms of Lily ingestion:

•  Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Anorexia
• Not Eating
• Pale Gums
• Diarrhea
• Kidney Failure 
• Death

Daffodils: Although Daffodils are full of sunny happiness, they can be another contributor to pet toxcicity. These flowers contain a property called lycorine, that can be toxic to animals.

Symptoms of Daffodil Ingestion:

1. Drooling
2. Nausea
3. Vomiting
4. Diarrhea
5. Increased heart rate
6. Abdominal pain
7. Abnormal breathing
8. Cardiac arrhythmias

Tulips and Hyacinths: Tulips and hyacinths are a seasonal favorite that are often unknown that are toxic to pets.  This is due to the fact that the toxicity primarily lies within the bulbs.  Many times animals like to dig up the bulbs and eat them.  This is when the symptoms arise.  

Symptoms of Tulip and Hyacinth ingestion:

• Drooling
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Increased heart rate
• Increased respiratory rate
• Difficulty breathing

Begonias: These gorgeous springtime favorites contain a crystal that can cause kidney issues in pets.  If your pet eats a begonia’s many stomach issues can arise.

Symptoms of Begonia Ingestion:

• Decrease in appetite
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• lethargy

South Town Animal Hospital wants to remind you that while planting season is among us we must be cautious that some of our seasonal favorites just don’t mix with our furry loved ones.  

If any ingestion occurs, call us at South Town Animal Hospital at 847-695-7387 or call ASPCA poison control at 888-426-4435.

Springtime is a beautiful season, let’s enjoy it while keeping our pets safe!

South Town Animal Hospital recognizes that we are in a changing world and everyone is busy with even less time for social interactions. Considering this is the case we wanted to send out a warm hello to all of our caring clients and fun-loving patients that we have the privilege of serving. We thank you for giving us the time and opportunity to do the things we love most, which is caring for your pet. In order to best serve you and keep you informed, South Town Animal Hospital wanted to share some information with you to keep you up to date on how we are operating and any new happenings in the clinic.

First off, let’s talk teeth! February is National Veterinary Dental Month. During this time we have decided to share our care by providing some discounts to our dental services. If you schedule your pet’s dental procedure in the month of February, you can receive a $50.00 savings on the dental cleaning. We will also be providing you with a complimentary at home dental care kit, to be more proactive on your pet’s oral health. Proper dental care can highly increase the overall health, happiness, and longevity of your pet’s life. If you are interested in getting your pet on point with great oral care give us a call at 847-695-7387, email at reception@southtownanimalhospital.com, or chat with us on our South Town Animal Hospital app.

Moving on, we are still running curbside for all of our services with the exception of humane euthanasia appointments. I know this can be difficult for some, but rarely do we get to explain the reasons and benefits of operating in this fashion.

What actually is curbside care?

Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic many animal hospitals, like ours, have chosen to run their operations curbside. This means that essentially all services are performed inside,while you stay in your vehicle. Think about it as a drive through service. You get to stay in your own safe, comfy personal space, while we take care of your furry babies inside the building.

How does curbside care work?

When you get to the parking lot, you remain in your vehicle and either call or text the office to signify you are here for your appointment, med/food pick up, or treatment admission. For examinations and treatment admissions, your technician will speak to you over the phone and come out to get your pet. The doctor will then do a full physical examination and call you to discuss findings and prior to any necessary diagnostics or other procedures they may need to perform. After the appointment is finished your technician will bring your pet out to you and customer service will check you out over the phone.

How does curbside care benefit everyone?

South Town Animal Hospital is a small staff of 16 people. The risk of mass spread of Covid 19 is very high in our environment. We have to work in very close proximity to each other and our patients in small spaces. Considering we are such a small staff illness can be debilitating to the practice. This leaves us unable to care for your furry family members. We want to continue to provide proper care to your pets and curbside allows us to do so.

Not only does curbside lessen the spread of Covid, it also enables you to remain comfortable in your own space. Inquire for a bottle of water, if you are thirsty. If you would like to run an errand or get a bite to eat while you wait, that works for us too. We can take care of your loved one while you get things done! You don’t even have to get out in the cold, rain or snow. South Town Animal Hospital is here to make you comfortable.

How will my pet do without me?

We all worry about our loved ones when we are unable to be by their side, but in most cases, pets do great. Sometimes pets tend to feel more protective when their family is in sight. Without the concern of having to watch over their people, pets can feel more calm and in return doctors can do what needs to be done. On an examination table pets allow veterinarians and technicians to do so much more due to the change in environment as well. This makes it more efficient for us to take care of your pet.

Please remember that we love animals and would not be doing what we do if we felt otherwise. The gratification that we receive from our chosen occupation comes from ensuring your cat or dog is healthy. We want to ease your concerns while they are in our care.

South Town Animal Hospital also understands that in these times the way that we have to approach situations is fluid and ever changing. We will constantly be reevaluating our policies to best suit our patients, pet owners and staff.

We know that continuing curbside care we greatly miss out on connecting with you. We miss the hospital chatter, the updates on your families and just seeing your smile. Did you know we are on multiple social media platforms? Follow us on Twitter @southtownanimal, Facebook at South Town Animal Hospital, TikTok @ Southtown1944, or you can contact us on our website at www.southtownanimalhospital.com. We love to re-connect and hear from you! We also have a South Town Animal Hospital app were we can chat as well. Check out your Google Play Store or App Store to find the awesome, free app! You can also receive reward points or request appointments or medications on the app. It is a great tool to have all around.

Lastly, to keep up with rising costs of healthcare supplies and services, we have had to increase some of our prices as well. Please remember that during this time we have felt the pressure of inflation the same as others.

Finally and most importantly South Town Animal Hospital wants to thank you for the continued care in our small business. We take pride in our work and want you to know that we are always here to listen to questions and concerns. We love each and every one of our patients as if they are our own pets and hope to continue to care for them in the future.