Why is the Maine Coon still a “catdog”? The cat grunts when breathing: possible causes of incomprehensible sounds.

DETERMINING A CAT'S BREATHING RATE

The cat's breathing rate can be determined by counting the number of inhalations and exhalations within 1 minute. To do this, they use different techniques: they determine breathing by the movement of the chest, or you can put your palm on the cat’s chest, which will make it possible to feel and count the number of respiratory movements. The normal number of inhalations and exhalations in a healthy Maine Coon ranges from 16 to 30 per minute. The breathing rate depends on a number of factors that should be taken into account. Remember, kittens breathe more often than adult animals, as they have a more active metabolism. Cats breathe more frequently than cats. Pregnant or nursing cats may breathe a little faster than usual. Small cats breathe more often than large ones. The breathing process is also affected by the time of day and season. In summer, in hot weather and high humidity, the Maine Coon's breathing becomes more frequent. During the winter season, cats' breathing, especially at rest, is even, calm and imperceptible.

An increased number of respiratory movements in a cat can be considered a deviation from the norm if it cannot be explained by any of the above reasons.

HOW TO GIVE YOUR CAT MEDICATION

Pills. Giving a cat pills is quite a difficult task. To make it easier, the tablets are usually hidden in a small amount of some cat treat. Soft cheese is very suitable for this purpose, in a small piece of which it is easy to hide a tablet. But many cats, having sniffed the treat, immediately recognize its filling and refuse to eat it. In this case, a different approach is needed.

For this procedure you will need a large towel, blanket or piece of thick fabric. Please note that your Maine Coon has sharp claws, so choose a particularly thick fabric, or better yet, use a leather bag. Typically the cloth is wrapped around the cat's neck under the chin, then over the shoulders and again around the body until the cat is completely wrapped in the cloth. In this case, only the cat's head should protrude out of the fabric. Then they take the cat in their arms.

The bundle with the cat is placed on your knees, with your head away from you. Then, holding out one hand, they open the cat’s mouth. The easiest way is to reach over your cat's nose and then press on her lips just behind her front canines. Pressing the lips at these points will force the cat to open its mouth wide. After this, with your free hand, place a tablet on the side of her tongue.

You need to place the tablet on the side, because from this position it is easiest for the cat to swallow it. As soon as the tablet gets into your cat's mouth, try to close it as quickly as possible. After this, gently lift the cat's head up while stroking the throat until the Maine Coon makes a clear swallowing movement. If the cat then begins to lick its lips and nose, it means that the goal has been achieved and it has swallowed the pill. To be on the safe side, leave your cat wrapped in a towel for a few seconds to see if she spits the pill back out.

Another way to give your cat medication is to crush a tablet and mix the resulting powder with the cat's regular food. This helps a lot if the medicine is not bitter. You can also mix the pill with some of your Maine's favorite treats. In order to crush the tablet, it should be placed on one spoon and pressed firmly on top with the other. This technique helps break up most tablets. However, if the tablet cannot be crushed in this way, it can be wrapped in paper and crushed with a hammer or crusher.

Liquid medicines

Giving your cat liquid medications is even more difficult than giving your cat pills. However, this can be done if you show a little resourcefulness and patience, and also master special tricks.

First you need to wrap the cat in a towel according to the scheme already described. Do not give medicine to your cat using a spoon. This is unlikely to succeed and will only complicate the situation. It is better to buy a regular disposable syringe at the pharmacy, with which you can accurately measure the required dose of the medicine. Under no circumstances should you put a needle on the tip of a syringe - use only the plastic part of the syringe. You need to take the syringe in your hand and, while talking quietly to the cat, extend your hand above her head, and then place your thumb and index finger behind her fangs. Press your fingers on the cat's lips in these areas and the cat will immediately open its mouth. Then carefully insert the syringe into the corner of your mouth and lightly press the plunger. After the medicine is administered, the syringe is removed and the cat is allowed to close its mouth. To force the animal to swallow the medicine, gently stroke the cat's throat.

Never pour a lot of liquid down your cat's throat at one time. In this case, part of the medicine may enter the cat's respiratory tract, which can cause respiratory tract disease. When infusing the medicine, do not turn the cat's head up. In this case, the medicine will enter the windpipe. If it seems to you that the cat is very frightened or is trying to cough, stop the procedure immediately.

If the medicine is thick, you can apply a small amount to your cat's front paws. She will definitely lick it off, and in this way the medicine will enter the body.

YOUR HOME FIRST KIT

In any home where animals are kept, in addition to the regular first aid kit where medications for family members are stored, there should be a special first aid kit where you will store medications for your pet. In addition to medicines, it usually contains a set of medical instruments, dressings, and fixatives that can be used to measure a cat’s body temperature at home, fix the jaws of an aggressive animal, and provide first aid to a sick cat.

Usually all these items are placed in a small box, divided inside into several compartments. You can stick a blue cross (a symbol of veterinary medicine) on the front wall so as not to be confused with a home first aid kit.

A veterinary first aid kit should be kept near the pet’s permanent place of keeping (above the cat’s favorite chair or in the bathroom). To avoid accidents caused by accidental use of medications, it is best to lock the first aid kit with a small padlock.

The set of medications in a first aid kit is most often standard, but can be supplemented with special medications or alternative medicine, taking into account your pet’s predisposition to certain diseases.

The standard set of medications and instruments recommended by veterinarians is as follows:

1) veterinary or medical thermometer 1;

2) anatomical tweezers 1;

3) scissors 1;

4) syringe 1;

5) eye pipettes 2;

6) rubber harness 2;

7) gauze bandages 2;

8) absorbent cotton wool 100 g;

9) gauze 1 m;

10) 5% alcohol solution of iodine 20 ml;

11) brilliant green (zelenka) 20 ml;

12) eye drops 10 ml;

13) potassium permanganate 10 g;

14) castor oil 100 ml;

15) various antibiotics in 20 g tablets.

Never use medicines or medical instruments without proper experience. Ask your veterinarian to teach you how to use medications and calculate the correct doses of medications.

Remember that all medications and other chemicals in the apartment should be stored so that animals do not have access to them. Otherwise, a vicious circle may arise, and the animal will have to be treated for poisoning with medications intended to provide first aid to it. Unfortunately, many cases of poisoning of cats by carelessly stored chemicals in veterinary practice have been recorded. Therefore, carefully monitor your first aid kit, lock it and make sure that medications or medications do not expire.

DISEASES OF MAINE COONS

It is very important for Maine Coons, like cats of other breeds, to be vaccinated against a variety of viral and infectious diseases on time. Any owner should be able to immediately identify signs of such diseases in their pet and take appropriate measures.

DISEASES OF THE JOINTS

Purulent inflammation of the joints

This is a serious disease of domestic animals, characterized by the formation of foci of purulent inflammation on the surface of the joints. The disease occurs as a result of the penetration of pathogens of purulent infection into the joint cavity - streptococci, staphylococci, etc. There are several stages in the development of the disease, each of which has a corresponding name.

Purulent synovitis is characterized by damage to the synovium (the inner layer of the joint capsule) and usually responds well to treatment. Empyemia of the joint is the next stage of the development of the disease, when the joint cavity is filled with purulent discharge, which cannot flow out and accumulates, causing severe pain.

Capsular phlegmon is characterized by damage to the entire thickness of the capsule, including its outer fibrous layer.

Purulent osteoarthritis is the last stage of the disease, in which damage spreads to all elements of the joint (cartilage, epiphyses of bones).

The most common cause of purulent arthritis is a penetrating injury to the joint due to a fracture or gunshot wound. Sometimes the inflammatory process spreads from neighboring tissues, which can occur in animals weakened by a long-term infectious disease.

Signs of illness

There is a wound on the surface of the joint from which a straw-yellow fluid is observed. There is an accumulation of gelatinous clots around the wound. On the second or third day, the liquid becomes cloudy and may acquire an unpleasant odor. This means that the inflammatory process has been prolonged and urgent surgical intervention is necessary. The cat's body temperature rises, swelling increases, the animal does not lean on the limb, tries to move less, and often licks the wound. In the severe stage of the disease, purulent fistulas appear.

First aid

When providing first aid, it is necessary to powder the wound with antibiotic powder, apply an aseptic suction dressing and secure the limb with splints.

Treatment

The cat must be taken to a veterinary hospital, where the wound will be treated surgically (excision, dissection), and the joint cavity will be washed by puncturing the opposite side of the wound with antibiotics. Stitches are placed on the wound. Typically, this disease is treated with a suction bandage that limits the movement of the limb. Further treatment is carried out depending on the course of the process.

Deforming joint inflammation

This is a chronic joint disease often seen in older animals. With deforming inflammation, irreversible changes occur in the bone structure, the bone can grow, change its shape, which disfigures the joint and disrupts its functions. There are quite a few causes of the disease, these include acute inflammation of the joint, various injuries, arthrosis, functional overload, etc.

Signs of illness

The disease develops rather slowly, so it is difficult to detect in the early stages. Initially, lameness is observed, which noticeably intensifies after physical activity. The animal rests often and for a long time. Later, bone growths appear, which are most noticeable on the lateral side of the joint. After some time, the growths cover the entire joint around the circumference, which leads to deformation and stiffness of the joint. In cats, the knee and hip joints are most often affected.

Treatment

Avoid overloading the joint by limiting yourself to moderate exercise. It is necessary to contact a veterinary clinic, where in some cases surgery is prescribed.

Arthrosis

A joint disease that is non-inflammatory in nature. Most often, older animals are susceptible to the disease. The disease is chronic and is characterized by changes in the osteochondral apparatus of the joint. The causes of the disease are disorders of mineral metabolism, vitamin deficiency, and bone dystrophy. Known significance is attributed to functional overload, relative weakness of joints, and tissue aging.

Signs of illness The disease develops quite slowly, in the early stages it is almost imperceptible. Only minor changes can be noted in the joints of the limbs. Onset of the disease.

manifested by lameness of the supporting limb, more noticeable at the beginning of the movement and intensifying after the previous functional load. The diagnosis is confirmed by x-ray.

Treatment

It is necessary to provide the animal with a complete protein, vitamin and mineral diet. Long rest is required.

Joint dislocations

A dislocation is a displacement of the contacting articular surfaces of bones. If the joint comes completely out of the socket and the limb bends at an unusual angle, a complete dislocation has occurred. If there is only partial displacement of the joint relative to the articular surface, characterized by the formation of edema, they speak of incomplete dislocation. The causes of dislocations are jumping, sharp turns, severe bruises, etc. Most often, dislocations occur in untrained animals with a weak musculoskeletal system. In cats, dislocations of the hip joint are usually fixed.

Signs of illness

The joint changes its shape, its mobility is impaired, and the limb may freeze at an unusual angle. The cat reacts painfully to any touch of the damaged surface. Sometimes there is a complete loss of function, the animal cannot move the injured limb. The prognosis for incomplete dislocations is cautious; for complete dislocations, it ranges from doubtful to unfavorable. It should be borne in mind that irreducible dislocation of the hip joint in cats can become so functionally adapted that a new joint is formed and lameness becomes less noticeable over time.

First aid

The area of ​​the damaged joint should be applied with cold, a splint bandage, antibiotics should be given internally, and the animal should be taken to a medical facility as soon as possible.

Treatment

It is necessary to correct the dislocation and fix the animal’s joint with a fixed bandage. Reduction is performed under anesthesia or general anesthesia. Reduction of the damaged bone segment should be carried out in the same direction in which the dislocation occurred. If closed reduction is not possible, surgery is performed.

DISEASES OF SKIN AND CONNECTIVE TISSUE

Abscess (boil)

An abscess is an inflammation of tissues or organs when a cavity forms inside them, bounded by a membrane and filled with pus. Typically, an abscess occurs when purulent microbes (staphylococci, streptococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli) enter the tissue. Infection can occur through scratches in the skin, wounds, or internal inflammatory processes. In the area of ​​the abscess, the tissue seems to melt. The abscess shell is granulation tissue with more mature connective tissue elements along the periphery. It is formed in response to an inflammatory reaction, separating the lesion from healthy tissue. Over time, the membrane grows to a considerable thickness and blocks the path of pus. In this case, the microbes inside the abscess usually die. But much more often, the abscess “ripens” and breaks out, and in severe cases, into the internal cavities of the body. The pus inside the abscess is liquid and reddish in color. When the abscess matures, the pus becomes thicker and acquires an unpleasant putrid odor.

Signs of illness

Swelling and redness of the tissues are observed at the site of the abscess. The cat gets worried when the owner feels the damaged area and often licks itself. The main clinical sign of an abscess is fluctuation (oscillation of the abscess), felt when palpated with the fingers. But this is only well diagnosed when the abscess is located directly under the skin. With abscesses localized in deep tissues, this symptom may be mild or even completely absent. Then, if you still suspect an abscess, you should contact a veterinary hospital. In it, the diagnosis is clarified by a test puncture.

Treatment

Usually, when treating an abscess, warm compresses, poultices, and heating pads are used. If the abscess begins to sag under the fingers and there is a suspicion that it has “ripened,” the abscess is cut and subsequently treated like an open wound.

Phlegmon

Phlegmon is an acute purulent inflammation of loose connective tissue. It can be subcutaneous, intermuscular, retroperitoneal or some other (depending on location). It is usually caused by various microorganisms that enter the body through a wound, or are brought to the site of the lesion by the lymphatic system. It also occurs when irritating chemicals (artificial phlegmon), for example calcium chloride, trypan blue, etc., enter the tissue. Occasionally, phlegmon can form at the site of tissue bruise.

The disease is classified as severe, since it often causes inflammation of the adjacent vessels. Blood poisoning, blockage of blood vessels with blood clots, and other serious consequences may also occur.

Signs of illness

At the site of the lesion, there is extensive swelling covering the entire area (for example, lower leg, forearm). The animal is in severe pain, cannot be handled, behaves restlessly, and meows often. In the area of ​​phlegmon, a local increase in temperature is observed; On non-pigmented skin, redness is clearly visible. The general body temperature may also rise to 40 °C or higher. The animal looks depressed and has a deterioration in appetite. More often, however, the process ends with the formation of abscesses.

Treatment

As soon as phlegmon has been noticed, the animal is prescribed thermal procedures: a warming compress, poultices, heating pads, thermal wrapping, heating with electric lamps. At the same time, sulfonamides, antibiotics, etc. are used. When abscesses form, as well as in the case of a rapid flow, even before the formation of an abscess, it is necessary to immediately undertake surgical intervention - one or more incisions. Treatment is the same as for an abscess.

Pustular skin diseases (pyodermitis)

A wide variety of skin diseases. This group includes ostiofolliculitis, folliculitis, furuncle, carbuncle, acne, staphyloderma, streptoderma.

Ostiofolliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicle (follicle) with localization of inflammation in the area of ​​its mouth. Folliculitis is a complete inflammation of the hair follicle and adjacent sebaceous gland. A furuncle is a complete inflammation of the hair follicle, adjacent sebaceous gland and adjacent tissue, most often their subsequent necrosis is observed. Carbuncle is a severe purulent inflammation of several hair follicles and sebaceous glands located nearby, with their subsequent death. Acne is a special case of folliculitis; it differs from it in its course. With acne, blockage of the excretory ducts of the sebaceous glands occurs, followed by their involvement in the inflammatory process.

Signs of illness

At the initial stage, all pustular lesions can be classified as ostiofolliculitis or folliculitis. There is noticeable redness of the skin and the formation of a nodule (papule). If treatment is not started in time, the papule turns into a pustule (abscess). Usually in the center of the abscess there is a protruding hair that gradually dies off. Over time, the abscess opens, its contents pour out, and a crust forms in place of the abscess. In this case, the skin recovers quite quickly, and no traces of infection are noticeable after a couple of weeks.

In more severe cases, the inflammation progresses, and a noticeable cone-shaped swelling forms in its place. After a week, the hair follicle, along with the sebaceous gland, completely dies and is limited from the surrounding tissues by a scar of newly formed granular tissue. This abscess, surrounded by a granular end, is called the core of the boil, or the dead core. To stop the disease, simply remove the rod. After this, the symptoms of inflammation disappear. If there are a lot of boils on the animal’s body, a partial increase in body temperature is observed, the animal begins to behave restlessly and often itches.

An even more severe stage of the disease can be considered carbunculosis. Here, in addition to damage to the hair follicles and sebaceous glands, tissue necrosis and suppuration are observed. The disease affects not only the skin, but also subcutaneous fatty tissue, less often ligaments. The animal's body temperature rises, the body becomes covered with small ulcers oozing pus. In severe cases, cardiac dysfunction is observed and blood poisoning is possible.

Treatment

Sometimes treatment simply requires eliminating the causes of the disease. If the disease is detected at the initial stage, the hair in the affected areas is cut off, the skin is cleaned, and lubricated with disinfectant solutions. The animal is provided with proper nutrition rich in vitamins. If the disease has progressed to a more severe form, antibiotics are used (most often intramuscularly). Large abscesses are opened, cleaned and disinfected, and if necessary, stitches are applied. In the postoperative period, local treatment is carried out using methods similar to those used for the treatment of granulating wounds.

Eczema

Eczema is an allergic inflammation of sensitive skin. The epidermis is primarily affected, and only very rarely the underlying tissues. While dermatitis is a reaction of any skin to abnormal agents of infection or pollution, then eczema is characteristic only of sensitive skin. It can be caused by irritants that are completely indifferent to normal skin. It is often very difficult to identify the true cause of eczema, so if your pet has sensitive skin, be prepared for any surprises.

Causes of the disease

Irritants that cause eczema can be external or internal. External stimuli include:

1) contamination of the skin due to insufficient care of it, especially in areas covered with long hair and inaccessible to the animal itself;

2) skin contamination with secretions and excreta (anus, perineum, eyes, skin near wounds and fistulas);

3) too frequent washing of the skin, especially with the use of alkalis, washing powders, and laundry soap;

4) mechanical irritations;

6) microflora that constantly lives on the surface of the skin, especially contaminated skin;

7) friction of contacting parts of the body (between the thighs, at the root of the tail, scrotum);

8) chemical irritants (medicines, floor polishing mastic, linoleum, polyvinyl chloride and other synthetic products).

There are even more internal irritants that cause eczema, so we will name only the main ones:

1) insufficient or excessive amount of protein (meat);

2) deficiency of vitamins, especially A, C, E, group B;

3) indigestion (diarrhea, constipation);

4) chronic diseases (nephritis, hepatitis, prostatitis);

5) violation of sexual cycles; old age, obesity;

6) medications given orally (iodine, bromine);

7) hereditary predisposition.

Any of these factors, and most often a combination of several of them, can cause eczema.

Signs of illness

Eczema is a fairly accurately diagnosed disease that can be detected in the early stages. Animals affected by eczema experience itching all over their body, scratch constantly, and quickly lose weight. They experience sporadic increases in temperature. Sometimes the disease is complicated by kidney disease. Most often, the affected areas are located under thick fur: under the ears, on the neck, along the back, at the root of the tail, on the outer surface of the hips and shoulder blades. Areas with thin skin (for example, the inner thighs or muzzle) are much less likely to be affected. Young animals get sick more often than adults, the peak of the disease occurs at 1.5 years.

Often with eczema, the formation of various blisters, nodules, and pustules is observed; at a more severe stage - scabs, weeping spots, scales. The disease can become chronic, especially in old animals, if their diet is not well balanced.

INVASIVE DISEASES

Feline notoedrosis

Typically, the tick develops all the time in the thickness of the skin of a sick animal, passing successively through all stages of its development (egg, larva, semi-adult and adult insect). The entire development cycle does not last very long, and two generations of ticks can change in a month.

Signs of illness

Young animals are most often affected by the disease. In cats, the course of the disease is accompanied by mild itching, which usually does not cause concern to the animal. The disease can only be identified by occasional scratching and changes in the skin structure of the sick animal. To clarify the diagnosis, a veterinarian usually takes a scraping from the skin. Detection of notoedrosis mites in scrapings under a microscope confirms the clinical diagnosis.

Otodectosis in dogs

Signs of illness

In the first stages, the disease is very difficult to detect. After some time, brown crusts form in the ear canal, which are almost invisible from the outside. If the disease develops further, there is a general deterioration in the animal's condition. Fluid with an unpleasant odor may be released from the ears, animals behave restlessly and often shake their heads. Cats' hearing deteriorates. With prolonged infection by mites, deformation and perforation of the eardrum are possible.

Local damage to the ears (symptoms of the disease) and detection under a microscope of otodectes in crusts from the ears make it possible to accurately diagnose this type of disease in a veterinary laboratory.

Signs of illness

The animal behaves restlessly and often itches. He experiences loss of appetite, general emaciation, and hair loss. The diagnosis is made by the presence of nits or adult insects visible to the naked eye.

For disinfestation, the litter is ironed with a hot iron or treated with boiling water.

Fleas

KIDNEY AND BLADDER DISEASES

Bladder and urethra stones

The first mention of urolithiasis appeared in the 1970s. In 1973, a group of scientists put forward a hypothesis about the viral nature of urolithiasis. In this case, the main role was given to calcivirus and herpesvirus infections of cats. However, this assumption was not further confirmed in other studies. Later, the use of dry food, as well as their mixing, began to be cited as a possible cause of urolithiasis. Subsequently, numerous studies have proven that this is not the case. However, the important role of magnesium salts in the development of urolithiasis has been established. It has now been established that the formation of uroliths (stones) and the occurrence of urolithiasis can be caused by a lack of water that enters the cat’s body, as well as low acidity of urine. The reason for such disorders may be that cats have historically had low thirst. Their body has the ability to highly concentrate urine in such a situation. However, this can contribute to the formation of stones, i.e. cause urolithiasis.

Urinary stones are more often observed in older animals, mainly in cats. Urolithiasis often develops in sterilized animals. The reason for this feature is that urination in sterilized animals does not occur as often as in an unsterilized animal. Infrequent urination causes crystal aggregation, which means the formation of stones. Neutered cats most often suffer from urolithiasis. Among sterilized and unsterilized cats, the incidence of urolithiasis is approximately the same.

The causes of this disease are most often metabolic disorders, as well as various damage to the genitourinary system. The sizes of the stones are very different; most often in cats, stones of small sizes (sand) are observed, but they can also reach significant sizes (the size of a hazelnut). The stones are salts of various metals, usually insoluble in water. Urethral plugs found in cats consist of an organic base with the addition of minerals. Stones in cats come in different chemical compositions.

Struvite. Struvite makes up 80% of stones in urolithiasis. They appear in cats between 1 and 6 years of age. These include tripel phosphates (magnesium, ammonium, phosphate). These stones are hard or friable in consistency and are cream or yellow in color. When viewed under a microscope, they have the appearance of an elongated prism with characteristic diamond-shaped edges. Urolithiasis is associated with urinary tract infection in cats over 10 years of age.

Calcium oxalate – The stones are round in shape and look like an open rose. Under a microscope, calcium oxalate resembles a square envelope. Such stones are found in diseases mainly in cats older than 7 years. It is usually caused by an increase in calcium levels in the urine (hypercalciuria). Such stones are rare in Maine Coons.

Cystines, as well as ammonium urate or uric acid, are rarely observed. Uroliths are usually localized in the lower parts of the urinary tract, but can also occur in the bladder itself.

Signs of illness

Most often, the disease is detected by direct blockage of the urinary tract. There may be several stones of varying sizes in the bladder. If they move and enter the bladder neck or urethra, urinary tract obstruction occurs.

The cat experiences a frequent urge to urinate, but no urine comes out or comes out in drops. The animal is straining, the filling of the bladder can be determined by palpation through the abdominal wall. Other signs of urolithiasis are:

1) frequent urination, possibly in the wrong place (pollakiuria);

2) the presence of blood in the urine (hematuria);

3) painful urination (dysuria);

4) urethral obstruction in cats.

The diagnosis is clarified in a veterinary clinic by direct palpation of stones, catheterization and x-ray examination.

Treatment

In a veterinary clinic, bladder stones are removed surgically. A cystotomy (opening of the bladder) or urethrotomy (opening of the urethra) is performed. Most often, the operation is performed under local anesthesia. Stones and sand are removed from the bladder cavity, the patency of the urethra is checked, after which the bladder wound is closed with a special suture. The abdominal wall wound is sutured according to generally accepted rules.

If the operation is successfully performed, the patency of the urethra is restored. Suppuration of the surgical wound or irritation by leaking urine requires partial removal of the sutures.

In 50–70% of animals, relapses of the disease may develop, especially if surgery was not performed or dietary feeding was not followed.

It is important to note that the development of concomitant infections is observed in urolithiasis in no more than 20% of all cases of the disease. Moreover, in 50% of cases the causative agents of infection are staphylococci, in 18% - E. coli, and in 11% - streptococci.

Nephritis

Nephritis is a kidney disease characterized by inflammatory processes and disruption of the renal glomeruli. Often occurs as a consequence of infectious diseases (plague, leptospirosis, etc.), less often - after poisoning, colds, extensive skin burns.

Signs of illness

At the onset of the disease, a general depressed state of the animal and decreased appetite are observed. The animal perceives any touch in the area of ​​the kidneys as painful; the cat cannot find a place for itself and has difficulty settling down for the night. The eyelids swell, sometimes the chest area. The cat has a frequent urge to urinate, but the amount of urine decreases. When analyzing urine, blood, protein, and epithelial cells are detected in it. Blood pressure increases noticeably. After 2–3 weeks, the acute form of the disease can become chronic.

In chronic nephritis, the amount of urine excreted remains normal or decreases slightly. The specific gravity of urine increases, it contains protein and epithelial cells. Body temperature usually does not change. As complications of chronic nephritis, disturbances in the functioning of the digestive system, as well as interruptions in the functioning of the heart, can occur. The final diagnosis is made in a veterinary hospital based on the clinical picture and the results of a urine test.

First aid

In the first 1–2 days, when the disease is diagnosed, fasting, complete rest, and a warm, dry room are recommended. More dairy products should be introduced into the diet, limiting the amount of meat and table salt. If signs of illness are detected, the sick animal should be shown to a veterinarian.

Nephrosis

Nephrosis is a serious kidney disease that often occurs together with nephritis. It is characterized by partial or complete degeneration of the capillaries of the renal glomeruli. Most often it occurs as a complication after an infectious disease (plague, leptospirosis, tuberculosis). Less commonly, it can be observed after extensive skin lesions (burns, frostbite), purulent septic processes, as well as poisoning with heavy metal salts and plant poisons.

Signs of illness

The animal looks depressed, uncommunicative, does not respond to its name, and tries to hide in a corner. The cat's eyelids, submandibular region, dewlap, and lower abdomen swell. There is a frequent urge to urinate, but the amount of urine decreases. When analyzing urine, blood, protein, and epithelial cells are detected in it. With complications, kidney failure may develop. As the animal's condition improves, the amount of urine excreted increases, it becomes lighter, and the amount of protein in it decreases. The diagnosis is made in a veterinary clinic based on clinical signs of the disease and a urine test.

First aid

The animal is provided with peace, warmth, and good bedding. In the diet, increase the amount of protein (milk, cheese, meat), limit or completely eliminate table salt and fluid intake. The animal must be immediately shown to a veterinarian.

Pyelitis

Pyelitis is a fairly common disease in domestic animals. With it, inflammation of the mucous membrane of the renal pelvis is observed due to past infectious diseases.

Signs of illness

In addition, pathogenic microflora can be observed in the urine, and grains of sand are found in the sediment. The diagnosis is difficult to establish, since pyelitis often develops together with general inflammatory processes of the bladder and ureters.

First aid

The animal must be provided with complete rest. He is prescribed a vegetable and dairy-free salt-free diet and does not limit fluid intake. It is better to slightly alkalize the water with sodium bicarbonate. If signs of disease are detected, you should definitely consult a veterinarian.

Urethritis

Urethritis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the urethra. Most often it is a consequence of injury to the urethra with urinary stones or improperly performed catheterization. It may occur secondary to general inflammatory processes in the kidneys and bladder.

Signs of illness

The animal behaves restlessly and is characterized by frequent painful urination and discharge from the urethra. The opening of the urethra becomes red and swollen, any touch causes pain. Diagnosis is made based on clinical signs and urine examination.

First aid

The animal is provided with rest and prescribed a diet with limited salt.

Cystitis

Cystitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bladder. Occurs during bladder infections due to the introduction of pathogenic microflora with blood or lymph. It can occur due to improper catheterization, as a complication of vaginitis and metritis, as well as urolithiasis.

Signs of illness

In acute cystitis, a decrease in appetite and general depression are noted. The animal reacts painfully to any palpation of the bladder through the abdominal wall and often meows. Urine is excreted in small portions, but the daily amount does not change, which is a characteristic sign of this disease. Urine is cloudy, mucous, sometimes mixed with blood; the amount of protein in the urine is insignificant. If cystitis is complicated by purulent inflammation, the cat’s temperature rises noticeably, loss of appetite is observed, and the urine acquires a characteristic putrid odor. Diagnosis is made at a veterinary clinic based on clinical signs and urine examination.

First aid

It is necessary to provide the animal with complete rest and plenty of drinking (the water must be alkalized). A milk-vegetable diet is prescribed.

INJURIES

Wounds

A wound is mechanical damage to tissues or organs caused by various sharp objects. Usually, when injured, the structure and integrity of the skin, as well as mucous membranes, are damaged. If the wounds are shallow and only the top layer of skin or mucous membrane is damaged, such injuries are called abrasions. There are many types of wounds, usually classified according to the degree of damage to the organ, as well as the type of object used to inflict the injury. When treating, these subtleties are usually not taken into account; for any injury, the animal should be given first aid and then taken to a veterinary hospital.

The most dangerous are bruised and crushed wounds, in which significant tissue damage is observed.

The main signs of a wound are pain, gaping and bleeding.

Pain in the wound area occurs due to damage to sensory nerves. The more nerve endings that approach the skin in the wound area, the more painful the wound is. Usually the most painful wounds are those caused by a blunt object.

Gaping wound– this is the divergence of its edges, which directly depends on the elasticity of the damaged tissues. In addition, the direction of the wound plays an important role, since a wound inflicted across the tissue fibers usually gapes 2–3 times more than a longitudinal one.

Wounds can heal in two directions. In the first case, if the edges of the wound are well aligned, appropriate assistance is provided and a fixing bandage is applied, the wound heals cleanly, without the formation of new intermediate tissue. Such wounds heal quite quickly, and the veterinary clinic can remove the bandage within a week.

If the wound is not clean enough, its edges are torn and difficult to align, a cavity filled with loose connective tissue may appear between the edges of the wound. After some time, this tissue becomes denser, loses water and turns into mature connective tissue - a scar. Such scars are often formed from lacerations and bites and remain for life.

First aid for injury

When providing first aid (pre-medical), you need to stop the bleeding using the methods described above, treat the peri-wound surface of the skin (cut the hair, lubricate it with a disinfectant solution) and apply an aseptic bandage.

Injury

A bruise is a mechanical injury to tissue without noticeable bleeding. When a bruise occurs, the integrity of the skin is not compromised, but the underlying tissues (fatty tissue, blood and lymphatic vessels, muscles, and sometimes bone tissue) are severely damaged. With bruises, blood and lymph from damaged vessels accumulate under the skin, pushing the underlying tissues apart and forming cavities. In medical practice, this phenomenon is called a hematoma. Hematomas, especially large ones, are dangerous for the animal, as they can cause necrosis of the underlying tissues, as well as internal infection.

If an animal has a bruise, the first thing that will be noticed is swelling of the skin and small abrasions. On non-pigmented skin, bruising is clearly visible. The animal reacts painfully to any touch, cannot find a place for itself, and meows frequently and anxiously. With a hematoma, a swelling appears that moves under the fingers.

Treatment

First aid consists of applying cold, applying pressure and rest. After 2–3 days, warm compresses and heat are used. Unresolved hematomas in veterinary clinics are opened, drained and an aseptic bandage is applied.

Stretching and tearing of tissues

A sprain is a type of injury characterized by rupture of individual fibers, bundles of muscles or tendons, and small blood vessels. Most often, sprains of ligaments, tendons, muscles, and less commonly joints are observed. Most often, a sprain occurs due to excessive extension and flexion of the joints, tension of the ligaments. Young animals are often injured during play, during sharp turns and jumps.

When stretched, the animal begins to behave inappropriately, organ dysfunction and pain are noted. Some sprains are accompanied by tissue ruptures, then the presence of hematomas and other tissue defects in the affected area is observed.

First aid and treatment

It is necessary to apply a pressure bandage and ensure rest. A permanent bandage is then applied, and in case of complete ruptures, it should be preceded by suturing.

Bone fractures

A fracture is a violation of the integrity of bone tissue, most often accompanied by growths in the structure of the adjacent muscles. In cats, complete fractures (transverse, oblique, longitudinal, helical, comminuted) are most often observed, and less often - incomplete (fractures and cracks). The main causes of fractures are an animal falling from a great height, impacts, and excessive muscle tension. In addition, bone fractures can be caused by certain diseases of the musculoskeletal system (rickets, osteodystrophy).

Signs of illness

With a fracture, the cat never leans on the limb, drags it, and if the pelvic bones are broken, it can only crawl and does not try to rise. There is mobility of the limb where it should not be. When feeling the damaged limb, the animal reacts painfully and tries to bite the person. At the site of injury, bone displacement and severe swelling are noted. To clarify the diagnosis, veterinary clinics take x-rays.

First aid and treatment

The first step is to apply a temporary fixing bandage. Then it is necessary to set the bone fragments and apply a permanent, immovable bandage. This bandage, in addition to the site of injury, should cover the overlying joint and the entire lower limb. Reduction of the debris is carried out in a veterinary clinic under local or general anesthesia. If necessary, resort to surgical reduction using bone alignment.

Fractures of ribs, sternum, vertebrae

This is a special category of fractures, often characterized by damage to internal organs. There are closed, open, complete, incomplete, single and multiple rib fractures. Most often they are recorded after impacts with heavy objects, falls from great heights, or severe bites. Predispose to osteodystrophy fractures of various origins, accompanied by weakening of skeletal bones.

With strong impacts, multiple rib fractures are most often recorded, complicated by deformation of the chest. Sharp bone fragments can pierce the lungs and cause a serious consequence - pneumothorax (entry of air into the pleural cavity) if the wound channel communicates with the external environment. Very often, internal hematomas form next to broken ribs. Since this may disrupt the integrity of large blood vessels, complex rib fractures are also aggravated by internal bleeding. If some nerve nodes are damaged, partial or complete paralysis of the forelimbs may occur. Typically, with internal injuries, lung damage is identified by characteristic wheezing and the presence of a large tumor in the thoracic region.

Fractures of the sternum, which is normally well protected by muscles, are somewhat less common. These fractures can also damage the lungs, which can be pierced by the sharp ends of the bone.

Vertebral fractures are also observed in cats. Most often, the vertebral arches and processes are affected, but the body itself can also break. These fractures are very dangerous, as they can pinch the spinal cord and impair movement. The animal stops feeling pain, cannot coordinate its movements, and almost does not move. In cases of serious injury, paralysis occurs in the areas behind the injury. If emergency measures are not taken in case of spinal cord damage, temporary paralysis can become permanent due to gradually developing cerebral edema.

Signs of illness

Swelling and severe pain are observed at the site of a closed rib fracture. Hematomas are visible on non-pigmented areas of the body. If the bone fragments have shifted, the swelling has an atypical shape; pieces of bone tissue can be felt in it. If several ribs are broken, the chest is noticeably deformed, the cat cannot lie down normally and often groans in pain. Breathing becomes shallow, abdominal type, the animal avoids sudden movements and turns.

If the sternum bone or subscapular region is broken, an extensive hematoma develops, and the cat noticeably falls on the forelimbs or drags them. Paralysis of the limbs quickly develops, breathing is difficult, and a characteristic hissing sound is heard. If the fracture is open, putrefactive processes quickly develop.

Vertebral fractures are diagnosed differently depending on the location and degree of injury. If a vertebra is cracked, a characteristic swelling is observed in its area, to the touch of which the cat reacts painfully. This is usually due to damage to the spinal nerve roots. If the spinal cord is damaged by a vertebral fracture, the animal develops rapidly progressive paralysis of the limbs and hindquarters.

Treatment

For all injuries to the chest or spine, the animal must be given complete rest and contact a veterinary clinic. The arriving specialist carries out diagnostics on site. Do not touch a sick animal to avoid complications. Closed fractures do not require treatment in most cases.

If there is deformation of the chest due to multiple rib fractures, surgical intervention is required. The displacement of bone fragments is corrected by lifting the ribs with a blunt hook through the wound opening or a specially made incision along their anterior edge. After this, the straightened ribs are fixed with a ligature and a fixed bandage is applied. The ligature is usually fixed to healthy ribs or specially applied splints.

If the fracture is open, first of all you should clean the wound, remove debris and sharp bone protrusions. Further treatment is carried out according to the classical scheme of wound treatment.

A special approach is required when surgically treating wounds in the area of ​​the intervertebral foramina. Here it is necessary to carefully perform local anesthesia, since this area is highly sensitive and painful. Spinal cord injury is a very serious disease. The consequences can be recorded in the animal throughout its life. Remember that if you suspect an animal has a spinal fracture, provide it with complete rest, do not move it under any circumstances, and call a veterinarian at home.

INFECTIOUS DISEASES

Viral respiratory diseases of cats

Viral respiratory diseases of cats, or viral runny nose, are a whole set of infectious diseases of cats that are still not well understood. They are called runny nose because they are characterized mainly by inflammation of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. Sick animals are characterized by a constant flow of mucous secretions.

Viral respiratory diseases are caused by viruses belonging to different groups; to date, more than 10 pathogens have been isolated. Most often, these viruses act in conjunction with other microorganisms that attack the body weakened by viruses. All groups of viruses multiply in the cells of the mucous membrane of the conjunctiva and oropharynx, but most often affect the nasal cavity.

Viral respiratory diseases are widespread; every second cat experiences this disease during its lifetime. Usually they go under a general name, since without specially conducted studies it is difficult to talk about any specific disease. All cats of any age are susceptible to the disease; only newborn kittens have natural immunity received from their mother. Most often they become widespread when cats are kept in groups (in nurseries, vivariums). Infection occurs through the respiratory tract, through coughing and sneezing, which contributes to the rapid spread of the disease. Often cats are hidden carriers of respiratory diseases when pathogens are dormant on the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. They can wake up if the animal’s body is exposed to stress factors, which include hypothermia, a weakened state after an illness, etc.

Signs of illness

The incubation period proceeds quite quickly. Usually the first signs of the disease are observed already on the 2nd, less often 5–7th day. The cat begins to sneeze frequently and for no reason, although outwardly it looks absolutely healthy. A cloudy liquid oozes from her nose, especially noticeable when pressing on the wings of the nose. After some time, inflammatory processes in the mucous membrane of the eyes develop, the eyes become very narrow, the cat seems to squint, and the eyelids can stick together with sticky pus. A runny nose develops rapidly, breathing becomes difficult. The cat stops washing itself, and the hair on its face is stained with a large amount of pus and mucus, and its paws and chest fur are often soiled.

After some time, the animal’s general condition worsens, the body temperature rises sharply, stomatitis appears, and ulcers form in the oral cavity. The mucous membrane of the lips and tongue is affected, it becomes sticky, unhealthy gray in color, and inflammation of the lungs and bronchi may occur. Animals lose a lot of weight, and in severe cases, vomiting and diarrhea are observed. Contaminated skin quickly becomes inflamed, ulcers appear in the nasal cavity, and sometimes the cornea of ​​the eyes is covered with ulcers. Pregnant cats may experience miscarriages; in especially severe cases, animals experience damage to the nervous system. The disease can last up to 2 weeks, in chronic cases – several months. If a cat has ulcerative stomatitis and the disease has reached a severe stage, then it is practically untreatable.

Opisthorchiasis

Signs of illness in the animal are mild. Local digestive disorders, loss of appetite, and weight loss may occur. Very rarely, yellowness of the conjunctiva is observed. A final diagnosis can only be made in a veterinary clinic by examining cat feces to detect trematode eggs.

First aid

The animal needs to have its body temperature measured. If changes are observed, it is worth being on the safe side and giving him light food. To clarify the diagnosis, you should send the animal to a veterinary hospital, having first taken a fecal sample (for laboratory testing). If suspicions of a disease are justified, the room and household items should be thoroughly disinfected.

Hydatigenic taeniasis

Signs of illness

First aid

The animal is prescribed a vitamin and milk diet to strengthen the body. For constipation, a laxative is prescribed - castor oil in the amount of 1 teaspoon. If constipation alternates with diarrhea, it is better to stop taking the laxative and give the animal more easily digestible food.

Toxocariasis in dogs and cats

Signs of illness

Usually the disease is very severe. Sick kittens may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Sometimes nervous disorders occur. The course of the disease is aggravated by the young age of the animals and their lack of immunity to the disease. In a veterinary laboratory, fecal samples from kittens are examined using a special Fülleborn method.

First aid

In order to alleviate the serious condition of a sick animal, laxatives are used at home (1-3 teaspoons of castor oil) or an enema is given using a small syringe, and a milk diet is prescribed. When caring, you should follow the rules of personal hygiene and prevention (to avoid human illness).

CONCLUSION

Keeping an animal in the house is always a difficult task, even if it seems to be a familiar cat to everyone. A simple pet lover will only be horrified to learn about the requirements for keeping any purebred cat at home. This includes careful selection of diet, grooming, bathing, combing, as well as preparation for exhibitions, mating features, etc. But this cannot be avoided if you are going to keep representatives of rare breeds in the house, which includes the Maine. kun. Cats of this breed appeared in Russia relatively recently, but have already won the love of many fans, and many people are faced with the problem of searching for specialized literature in order to learn more about the cats that interest them. We hope this book will help you with this.

After reading the description of the appearance, familiarizing yourself with the various breed standards and character traits of the Maine Coon, you can easily decide for yourself the question of whether this is your breed and whether it is suitable for you. Tips on feeding, caring for fur, teeth, and claws given in this book will help you raise a healthy cat and maintain its beautiful appearance for many years, and will make caring for your pet easier.

Communication with a Maine Coon will bring great joy to a person who expects endless devotion and love from his pet; this cat will become a faithful friend and an ideal companion for him!

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Nepomnyashchiy N.N. A cat in your house. M., 1990.

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Vogel A., Schneider H. E.-H. Advice for cat lovers. M., 1987.

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