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It’s Summertime! That means sunny skies, trips to the beach, and more time outdoors. With all of the fun summer brings, it’s important to make sure not only you, but your pets are staying hydrated! July is National Pet Hydration Month for good reason. Read more and you’ll find everything you need to know about hydration, as well as some tricks to help your furry friends stay eager for water! Why is Hydration So Important? Just like for us humans, hydration is crucial for your pet’s health. Being properly hydrated ensures that their body is functioning and thriving. Dogs and cats that don’t drink enough water are at risk of developing diarrhea, lethargy, or even heatstroke. If your pet remains chronically dehydrated, there can be even worse implications. This includes kidney disease, diabetes, and urinary infections. Hydration allows your body to perform necessary functions, like optimizing organ function and regulating body temperature. If you want your pet to be healthy, getting plenty of water is a must!   How Much Water Does My Dog or Cat Need?   It is recommended that dogs drink one ounce of water daily, per pound of their body weight. Cats, on the other hand, are recommended to drink 4 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight, per Cornell University. So, if your Tabby weighs 15 pounds, she should be getting about 12 ounces of water daily. On the other hand, if you have a Labrador Retriever who weighs 60 pounds, he can drink up to 60 ounces of water per day.    Keep in mind the amount of water your dog or cat needs, and be sure to supervise to see if they're drinking enough water throughout the day.   How to Tell if My Dog or Cat is Dehydrated? Unfortunately, your dog or cat won’t bring their water bowl to you and ask for more. That’s why it’s crucial to monitor their water intake. While dogs generally drink water without issue, cats tend to be a bit more finicky. In fact, most cats don’t feel the symptoms of dehydration until the problem becomes more serious. Because your pet won’t always express that they're dehydrated, be sure to check for the following physical signs. Skin Elasticity  Gently pull up on the skin between your pet’s shoulder blades and see how long it takes to return to normal. In a well-hydrated dog or cat, the skin should return to normal quickly. Dry Gums Pull back your pet’s cheeks and give them a gentle touch. They should feel wet. If they feel sticky, your pet is probably dehydrated.  Sunken Eyes  Check to see if your pet has dull, unfocused, or sunken eyes. Dehydrated Coat  Feel your pet’s coat and skin. Is it dry or flaky? If so, they may be dehydrated.     How Can I Keep My Pet Hydrated and Healthy? Let’s face it: no one has the ability to watch their pet all day, every day. We won’t always be able to make sure our pet is drinking all the water they need - but we can take the steps to make it as easy as possible for them!   Be mindful of temperature and activity level It’s always important to make sure your dog or cat is getting enough exercise. If your pup loves running with his friends at the dog park, that’s great! But it’s crucial to give him plenty of water before, during, and after playtime. Pets, especially dogs, that get a lot of exercise need extra hydration throughout the day. The hotter it is outside, the more they need. In addition to providing water, make sure to limit the amount of time spent outdoors in high temperatures. Excessive exposure to heat can put your pet at risk of overheating.   Always provide a source of water Your dog or cat can’t drink water if their bowl’s empty! Make sure your pets always have access to water. If you have the option, you can always buy your pet a water fountain dispenser. It’s less of a hassle to monitor if their bowl is full, and actually can encourage them to drink up!  Cats in particular respond better to running water: this is because of their biological predisposition. Cats in the wild looked for running water rather than still, to ensure what they were drinking was fresh and uncontaminated by bacteria. With a water fountain for cats, you’ll be keeping your furry friend hydrated in no time!   Give Your Pets Moisture-rich food You may ask yourself: Does wet food hydrate cats or dogs? The answer is yes!  You might not know this, but water is not the only way to keep your pet hydrated. Dogs and cats can both get hydration from moisture-rich foods. It’s always best to provide your pets with wet food, rather than dry food. Due to the production process of kibble, all hydration is eliminated from the product and it can actually be dehydrating for your pets. You can read more about the benefits of wet food, here. For cats, our Minimal Ingredient Stews, Poké Bowls, and Pure Shreds are all designed to help fight against dehydration. Like all of our food, they are minimal ingredient and safe for cats with digestive concerns. For dogs, try our Pure Shreds! They’re delicious, low fat, and cooked in a savory broth to help keep your pup hydrated.    Keeping your dog or cat hydrated and healthy doesn’t have to be a struggle! Just make sure you’re providing your pet with the right amount of water, and the right food! If you’re concerned that your dog or cat is dehydrated, please schedule a visit with a trusted veterinarian. This text cannot and should not replace advice from a licensed veterinarian. This blog is for educational purposes only.   ------ References Cornell Feline Health Center. (2021, July 8). Hydration. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Retrieved July 27, 2022, from https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/hydration#:~:text=Cats%20need%20to%20consume%20about,cup%20of%20water%20per%20day.

Does your pooch dread going to the groomer’s or vet? Does he or she hide under the bed every time there’s a thunderstorm or fireworks? Is having company over or going on a road trip a source of stress for you and your pup? If any of the above apply, it may be time to figure out how to help your dog.   What Causes Anxiety in Dogs? Dogs, just like us humans, can be prone to anxiety. The trigger can be very specific in certain cases (think, loud noises or strangers,) or it may be a generalized problem for your pooch. Studies have shown that nearly 25% of all dogs experience situational or separation anxiety. The factors that affect the mental health of our dogs are complex. Genetics, environmental stressors, and early life experiences are a few of the main contributors that determine dog anxiety. Some of our puppies may naturally tend to stress out more than others. Anxiety can also be age-related. As your dog gets older, unfortunately, they may begin to be limited physically and mentally. This can cause them to feel anxious and act out. How Do You Know If Your Dog Has Anxiety? Sometimes, the signs of anxiety can be pretty apparent in your furry friend. If they shake and cry excessively when you walk into the vet, that’s a clear sign of situational anxiety. Stressed dog body language, with their tail between the legs, is also a clear indicator. Not every dog exhibits their anxiety in the same way, however. It’s important to know the signs. Sometimes what we perceive as bad behavior, is really the way a dog is expressing that they're stressed out. If you’re not sure if your dog is experiencing anxiety, take some time to do a little research, or ask your veterinarian.   The American Kennel Club (AKC) identifies the following symptoms of anxiety: Aggression Urinating or defecating in the house Drooling Panting Destructive behavior Depression Excessive barking and/or whining Pacing Restlessness Repetitive or compulsive behaviors   If you’re concerned for your pup and want to find a solution, you’ve come to the right place! Here are three ways to manage dog anxiety.   How To Help My Dog with Anxiety? 1. Early Intervention If you got your dog as a puppy, there’s a lot that can be done! Early socialization is a crucial part of any dog’s development. It helps diminish fear and anxiety caused by unfamiliar situations. This can be done by taking your puppy to visit new places, meet new people, and play with other dogs (after they’ve received all the necessary vaccinations, of course). By increasing exposure to new environments, dogs are less likely to be scared in new situations. If you notice your pup is scared of certain triggers, such as the car or the bath, try to work with them and build up a tolerance. Use treats and praise to make these situations positive for them rather than negative. The earlier you start, the easier it will be.   2. Set a Routine Regardless of age, keeping your pooch in a familiar routine also helps them as well. Dogs recognize structure, and will quickly become familiar with a daily schedule if you follow it consistently. This way, he or she will start to learn that when you leave for work daily, it won’t be forever.  Within their routine, make sure to designate time every day for not only physical exercise, but mental exercise as well. Boredom can leave dogs feeling restless and can contribute to anxiety. Each breed varies in the amount of stimulation they need, so don’t be afraid to do some research.   3. Use a Calming Supplement Sometimes, there are certain situations or triggers that we simply cannot avoid. In these situations, a calming supplement is a great choice. Almost immediately, calming supplements promote relaxation and decrease stress. We’ve done the research, and have designed our own Calming Aid Supplement that is all natural, with the most effective ingredients.  It’s specially formulated with a combination of Melatonin, Valerian Root, Passion Flower, L-tryptophan, and L-theanine to naturally calm your dog. It also includes probiotics and thiamine (aka Vitamin B1) to give a healthy boost to their digestive and immune system at the same time.   Dog anxiety can be, for lack of a better word, pretty stressful. But with patience and a little bit of work, you can help alleviate their symptoms and improve their quality of life! If you are concerned about your pet, please make sure to schedule a visit to a trusted clinic. This text cannot and should not replace advice from a licensed veterinarian. This blog is for educational purposes only.   ------ References Kriss, R. (2021, November 10). Dog anxiety: What dog owners need to know. American Kennel Club. Retrieved June 21, 2022, from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/treating-dog-anxiety/  

Mixing wet food with dry food for dogs is a great way to give your pup the nutrients they may not be getting from a kibble-only diet and can also make meal time more exciting for those picky eaters.

Grain-free or not grain-free? Perhaps one of the most common, yet controversial, questions from dog owners has finally gained some clarity. Groundbreaking Study Clears Grain-Free Dog Food An ongoing theory touted by academic researchers and investigated by the FDA involving a potential link between canine heart disease, also known as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), and certain grain-free pet foods have been debunked, according to a far-reaching study recently released by a working group of veterinary professionals and animal nutritionists. The groundbreaking findings, which is the subject of a peer-reviewed article published in June 2020 in the Journal of Animal Science, showed no clear link between grain-free diets and DCM in dogs - despite recent arguments from academia and regulatory agencies. “While determining the cause of recently reported cases of cardiac disease is of the utmost importance, based on this review of the current literature, there is no definitive relationship (between) these implicated diet characteristics and DCM,” according to the study, which involved an exhaustive examination of nearly 150 previous studies.The new study pointed to potential sampling bias and other confounding factors for debunking the claim - saying the scrutiny comes “without merit because there is no definitive evidence in the literature.”“At this time, information distributed to the veterinary community and the general public has been abbreviated synopses of case studies, with multiple variables and treatments, incomplete medical information, and conflicting medical data and opinions from veterinary nutrition influencers.” It ultimately established no definitive link between grain-free diets and DCM and called for further study and analysis.While the findings should be considered certainly good news for pups that thrive on grain-free diets, it’s crucial for dog owner’s to do their homework before feeding them any old meal. Because believe it or not - not all grain-free diets are created equal.  What to Look For When Going Grain-Free Grain-free is the best choice for your dog, but only if it's the right high-quality grain-free food. Simply put, while these foods are “grain-free," they do not provide your pet with the health benefits of high-quality grain-free foods. Think of it as substituting bad for bad.  Grain-free dog foods are foods that do not contain grains such as corn, rice, and wheat. Good grain-free dog food should have meat as its main ingredient. It should also be biologically appropriate, minimally processed, and moisture-rich.Many low-quality grain-free dog foods contain comparable carbohydrate levels to those made with grains. Although technically "grain-free", their main ingredients are starches such as potatoes and peas. These low-quality, biologically inappropriate ingredients have been linked with health problems including obesity, digestive disorders, and skin conditions in dogs. How to Choose the Best Grain-Free Dog Food Let’s take a look at a few important characteristics that high-quality grain-free dog foods should possess, and how this could impact the health of your pup. High in Meat Protein  - High-quality grain-free dog food will list real meat as the main ingredient; not unnecessary fillers such as potatoes and starches. Dogs are primarily carnivorous and thrive on a meat-based diet. When real meat is listed as the first ingredient, you can be sure your dog's food contains a high ratio of a quality protein source that will support their overall health.  Minimally Processed - The best grain-free dog foods are made with minimally processed, whole, and natural ingredients. Dry dog foods are cooked multiple times at high heat, which destroys nutrients and diminishes flavor. By comparison, minimally processed wet foods contain ingredients and nutrients closer to their original state.  Moisture Rich - A dog's natural, carnivorous diet contains around 70% moisture. High-quality, wet grain-free dog food mirrors mother nature by providing adequate moisture to help the body function. Unlike dry dog food, it's biologically appropriate and can help prevent health problems including urinary tract infections, digestive issues, and obesity.  What to Avoid in a Grain-Free Dog Food When choosing a grain-free dog food, keep it simple. Always check the ingredients on the label and do not buy the food if the main ingredients (or first couple of ingredients) include the following:  Meat and Bone Meal - Meat and bone meal is a product of the rendering industry. It is made from the portions of animals that are unfit for human consumption. Meat and bone meal is of lower quality than real meat. It is also highly processed, which makes it difficult to digest. Starches - Starches like potatoes, green peas, sweet potatoes, and beet pulp are cheap filler ingredients in many grain-free dog foods. These food ingredients are biologically inappropriate, increase calories, and can contribute to obesity and other health issues. Soy Products - Soy products are commonly used in low-quality grain-free dog foods as an inexpensive form of protein. They are biologically inappropriate, highly processed, and often genetically modified. This means that they are difficult to digest and can lead to health problems in dogs. Carrageenan - Carrageenan is a thickening agent that's used to improve food texture. It has no nutritional value and has been associated with gastrointestinal inflammation in dogs. Artificial Preservatives - Artificial preservatives are used by many pet food manufacturers to extend the shelf life of their products. Grain-free dog foods that contain these chemicals should be avoided, as they have been linked with toxicity in pets. The Best Grain-Free Dog Food Money Can Buy True dog lovers don’t skimp when it comes to their pup’s health and wellbeing. If you are concerned about the quality of your dog's food, KOHA offers high-quality grain-free dog food that's high in meat protein, minimally processed, and moisture-rich? Check out our Limited Ingredient Diets for dogs.  Our premium wet dog foods contain no carb-loaded fillers, unnecessary thickening agents, artificial preservatives, or other harmful ingredients. Instead, we pack them with 70%-96% real meat to mirror Mother Nature. And with 8 delicious single meat recipes to choose from, you're sure to find a variety your pup loves.

Knowing what to feed your dog or cat is one of those burning questions that pet parents often ask. For cats, especially, diet plays a crucial role in your pet’s overall health, appearance, and vitality.

You may have noticed the last time you went to buy pet food there seems to be an explosion of foods that are considered “good for dog skin allergies” or “cat food allergies.” How prevalent are pet skin and food allergies?

Grain-free, high protein dog food has been trending for the last 5-10 years. Is this a fad or is there a scientific basis for feeding your dog a filler-free product like Koha Super Premium Food Dog Food?The ideal nutrient ratio for dog food is a controversial topic. On one side, there are those who advocate that dogs eat zero carbohydrates, while their opponents point out that dogs are not wolves and have adapted to digest starch (Axelsson et al., 2013). There are many strong opinions, but no one really knows the exact ideal canine diet. However, we do have some research in favor of higher protein diets for dogs. Wild Wolf Diet vs. Modern Dog Food A 2014 study in the British Journal of Nutrition found that free-living wolves have a protein–fat–carbohydrate ratio of 54:45:1% on a calorie basis (Bosch, Hagen-Plantinga, & Hendriks, 2015). OK, so wolves get 1% of their calories from carbohydrates. Average dry dog foods provide 40-70% of calories in the form of carbohydrates!Our dogs are getting a lot more carbohydrates from their food than wild wolves choose to eat. Even if dogs have adapted to tolerate a higher carbohydrate level, 40-70 times more than wolves is probably not ideal. High Carbohydrate Diets and Obesity The ratio of protein to carbohydrates has an effect on the bacteria in dogs’ intestines (the gut microbiome). A study found that when obese dogs were fed a high protein/low carbohydrate diet, there was an increase in gut bacteria associated with weight maintenance (Li, Lauber, Czarnecki-Maulden, Pan, & Hannah, 2017).This effect was more prominent in obese dogs than in lean dogs. It would seem that high carbohydrate diets favor a gut microbiome that leads to obesity in some dogs. Carbohydrates Have Some Benefits So why do dog food producers put so many carbohydrate ingredients in dog food? There are a few reasons: Kibble must contain some carbohydrates to hold its shape. Like a cookie, dry dog food kibbles won’t hold together unless there is some starch in it. That’s why dry dog food tends to have a higher carb content than wet dog food. Carbohydrate ingredients generally cost less than meat. Think about the cost of a pound of flour versus a pound of steak. The difference can be tremendous in large-scale production. Including some carbohydrates, ingredients keep the cost affordable for pet owners. Carbohydrates combine with meat to create a more palatable texture. Think about the difference between a low-quality, tough cut of beef and meatloaf. The meatloaf is more pleasant to eat because it has a better texture. Carbohydrate as Filler Calories Dogs can benefit from a small amount of high-quality carbohydrates in their diet as a source of energy. But when starches contribute the majority of calories in a recipe, they’re acting more like “fillers.”Overabundant starch isn’t the only “filler” found in your average bag or can of dog food. Let’s take a look at some other sneaky ingredients that cause problems for dogs. Dog Food “Fillers” to Avoid A dog food “filler” is an ingredient that has questionable nutritional value. There are many things in the average dog food your dog would never recognize as food, including: Meat by-products and grain by-products (chicken by-product, wheat middlings, corn gluten meal, etc.)–cheaper ingredients than meat, used to increase protein and calorie content. Starches (green peas, beet pulp, potato, sweet potato, etc.)–these increase calories and allow kibble to hold its shape. Starch provides a ready source of energy, but too much starch doesn’t support good health. Soy products (soybean meal, textured vegetable protein/TVP, isolated soy protein, etc.)–a cheaper source of protein than meat. Questionable thickeners (carrageenan)–used to improve food texture. Food coloring (yellow 6, red 40, etc.)–makes the food more attractive to humans Chemically altered proteins (hydrolyzed chicken, hydrolyzed soy protein isolate, etc.)–increase protein content in hypoallergenic dog foods. Any of these filler ingredients could cause an adverse reaction when ingested by your dog. Anything that irritates the gastrointestinal tract can trigger chronic digestive and skin problems.Finding a high-protein dog food with no problematic fillers can be a challenge. You could spend hours online or in a boutique pet food store reading labels and still walk away empty-handed. Koha Limited Ingredient Diet for dogs was created to solve this problem. It has no grain, potato, or soy so you can be sure you’re feeding your dog a meat-based diet with no unnecessary fillers. References: Axelsson, E., Ratnakumar, A., Arendt, M. L., Maqbool, K., Webster, M. T., Perloski, M., ... & Lindblad-Toh, K. (2013). The genomic signature of dog domestication reveals adaptation to a starch-rich diet. Nature, 495(7441), 360.Bosch, G., Hagen-Plantinga, E. A., & Hendriks, W. H. (2015). Dietary nutrient profiles of wild wolves: insights for optimal dog nutrition?. British Journal of Nutrition, 113(S1), S40-S54.Li, Q., Lauber, C. L., Czarnecki-Maulden, G., Pan, Y., & Hannah, S. S. (2017). Effects of the dietary protein and carbohydrate ratio on gut microbiomes in dogs of different body conditions. MBio, 8(1), e01703-16.

Have you ever wondered how many times a day a dog should eat? Chances are, you adopted your current dog feeding habits from whatever you saw your parents do. Maybe you decided to free-feed your dog for the sake of convenience. You might be hurting your dog’s health without realizing it. Free-Feeding Has Its Limitations The term free-feeding means that you put out more food than your dog would eat in a day so that he has food available at all times. You allow the dog to eat as much as he wants.Free-feeding is a reasonable strategy in some cases. For instance, small and medium breed puppies need to take in such a large amount of food they may do better when food is always available. Dogs with digestive trouble and those who are underweight sometimes do better with free-feeding, too.However, there are some serious problems with free-feeding most dogs. The biggest problem is that many dogs take in too much food when it’s always available. Overeating leads to obesity and an increased risk of many diseases including diabetes (Briand et al., 2006) and osteoarthritis (Smith et al., 2006).Other problems encountered with free-feeding dogs is that it makes it difficult to track their food intake. You might not notice that your dog’s appetite has decreased until several days have passed. Also, if you have multiple dogs and one is more timid it may not have enough access to food. Finally, leaving food out in a bowl attracts insects and wild animals to the area. Food-Restricted Meal Feeding Is Better for Most Dogs For the average dog, offering meals of a measured amount of food has many advantages. You’ll be able to monitor your dog’s appetite and intervene if it’s abnormal.Allowing a dog to have more time between meals allows his hunger to develop between meals. This is a normal situation and a closer approximation of how their ancestors lived. Take advantage of your dog's pre-meal hunger by doing some training using some delicious treats as rewards. Meal feeding will allow you to give dogs in multi-pet homes an individual portion. Timid dogs will have access to the right amount of food and overeaters can be kept from stealing from their housemates. Transitioning Your Dog to Meal-Feeding Transitioning to meal feeding doesn’t have to be difficult. Most dogs do well eating two meals a day, so it’s only going to require about 15 minutes of your time twice a day during the transition period. Using highly palatable, moist foods like Koha Pet foods can make the transition easier.Decide on a day to start. The night before your starting day, take away your dog’s bowl of food. Letting him go overnight without eating should be no big deal. In the morning, offer him a meal with half his daily food allotment.Put the food bowl down on the floor and make sure your dog knows it’s there. If he doesn’t eat it, that’s OK. Just leave it there for 15-20 minutes. At the end of that time, pick up the food and discard it or store it until the next feeding time.At the next feeding time, offer a meal again. Your dog will be more likely to eat now that his hunger has had a chance to build throughout the day. It shouldn’t take more than a few days for him to get used to meal-feeding if you stick to feeding him at the same time twice a day.If he begs for food or pesters you between meals, it’s best to let his hunger build until the next mealtime. Normal, healthy dogs can easily go for 8-12 hours between meals, so don’t let him bully you! If your dog is less than a year old or has health challenges, discuss your plans with your veterinarian before you start the transition to meal-feeding. Reference Briand, F., Ougerram, K., Krempf, M., & Nguyen, P. (2006, May). Insulin resistance is not associated with glucose intolerance in dog made obese by overfeeding. In JOURNAL OF VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE (Vol. 20, No. 3, pp. 771-771). 7175 W Jefferson Ave., Ste 2125, Lakewood, CO 80235 USA: AMER COLL VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE. Smith, G. K., Paster, E. R., Powers, M. Y., Lawler, D. F., Biery, D. N., Shofer, F. S., ... & Kealy, R. D. (2006). Lifelong diet restriction and radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis of the hip joint in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 229(5), 690-693. Zentek, J., Meyer, H., & Daemmrich, K. (1995). The effect of a different energy supply for growing Great Danes on the body mass and skeletal development. 3. Clinical picture and chemical studies of the skeleton. Zentralblatt fur Veterinarmedizin. Reihe A, 42(1), 69-80.

You’d probably know a healthy dog or cat if you saw one, right? They’re the ones with a lean body, a shiny coat and a sparkle in their eye.Good nutrition goes a long way toward supporting this picture of excellent health. A very important component of good nutrition is the right amounts and kinds of fats. What Are Essential Fatty Acids? Dogs and cats must have fat in their diets. They use fat for energy, cell building, hormone synthesis, and insulation, among other things.Fats are made up of smaller components called fatty acids which are classified based on their carbon structure. You may be familiar with the term omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, but did you know there are also omega-7’s and omega-9’s?Dogs and cats need many different kinds of fatty acids to thrive. They can make some of them in their bodies from other components. There are a few fatty acids that dogs and cats cannot synthesize from other fatty acids.These are called essential fatty acids. Essential fatty acids must come from the diet since pets cannot form them from other components.Essential fatty acids required by dogs and cats (NRC, 2006): Linoleic acid (omega-6) Arachidonic acid (cats only)(omega-6) Alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) Eicosapentaenoic acid (omega-3) Docosahexaenoic acid (omega-3) Additionally, the ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 essential fatty acids in the diet has an effect on overall health. Too much omega-6 tips the scales toward inflammation. Many pet foods have a lot of omega-6 EFA’s and less omega-3 EFA’s. Flaxseed’s Beneficial Component: ALA Flaxseed is a natural source of the omega-3 EFA alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Other foods have significant ALA, including chia seeds, walnuts and rapeseeds (canola oil). But flaxseeds have a much higher ALA level than almost any other food source!ALA happens to be a delicate fatty acid that can break down easily under storage conditions. Adding extra to the diet helps make sure your pet is getting enough. Including flaxseed as part of a pet food’s ingredients provides a constant source of ALA. How Flaxseed and ALA Can Help Your Pet Flaxseed supplementation has been the subject of many scientific studies. It has some clear benefits... Dogs with skin allergy symptoms showed improvement in clinical scores when they were supplemented with flaxseed oil (Mueller et al., 2004). Flaxseed oil supplementation alters the expression of inflammatory-related genes in dogs (Purushothaman et al., 2014). Cats had a reduced skin inflammation response when their diet was supplemented with flaxseed (Park et al., 2011). Flaxseeds improve the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio since they contain more than three times as much omega-3 as omega-6 fatty acids (Adolphe et al., 2016). Dogs (and cats at a lower rate) can convert some ALA to other anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (Bauer, 2006). Flaxseeds are a source of dietary fiber, potentially benefitting pets prone to stress-induced diarrhea. Increased fiber can also aid in maintaining your pet’s healthy weight (German et al., 2010). Summary With their high ALA and fiber content, flaxseeds can benefit dogs and cats in many ways... Promote healthy skin and coat Decrease inflammation in the body Improve some digestive problems Help pets maintain a healthy weight References Adolphe, J., PhD, RD, & Fitzpatrick, K., MSc. (2016, October). FLAXSEED: Nutrition Benefits for Dogs and Cats. Retrieved November 5, 2018, from https://flaxcouncil.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/10... Bauer, J. E. (2006). Metabolic basis for the essential nature of fatty acids and the unique dietary fatty acid requirements of cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 229(11), 1729-1732. German, A. J., Holden, S. L., Bissot, T., Morris, P. J., & Biourge, V. (2010). A high protein high fibre diet improves weight loss in obese dogs. The Veterinary Journal, 183(3), 294-297. Mueller, R. S., Fieseler, K. V., Fettman, M. J., Zabel, S., Rosychuk, R. A. W., Ogilvie, G. K., & Greenwalt, T. L. (2004). Effect of omega‐3 fatty acids on canine atopic dermatitis. Journal of small animal practice, 45(6), 293-297.National Research Council (NRC). (2006). Nutrient requirements of dogs and cats. National Academies Press. Park, H. J., Park, J. S., Hayek, M. G., Reinhart, G. A., & Chew, B. P. (2011). Dietary fish oil and flaxseed oil suppress inflammation and immunity in cats. Veterinary immunology and immunopathology, 141(3-4), 301-306. Purushothaman, D., Brown, W. Y., Vanselow, B. A., Quinn, K., & Wu, S. B. (2014). Flaxseed oil supplementation alters the expression of inflammatory-related genes in dogs. Genetics and Molecular Research, 13(3), 5322-5332.

There’s been a lot of buzz lately about grain-free and high protein cat food. Is this a fad or is there a scientific basis for feeding your cat a filler-free product like Koha Limited Ingredient Diet for cats?That meowing mound of fluff lounging on the back of your sofa may as well be a little tiger. Believe it or not, domestic cats' physiology hasn’t changed much since their ancestors hunted prey on the hills and plains of the Near East and Africa. High Protein Cat Food vs. High Carbohydrate Cat Food The modern house cat’s ancestors ate a diet consisting of small prey such as rodents, birds, insects, and reptiles (Smithers, 1971). Modern feral cats eat a diet containing as low as 2% carbohydrate. Protein accounts for 52% of their calories and fat make up the remaining 46% of energy intake (Plantinga, Bosch, & Hendriks, 2011).Cats can adapt to having some carbohydrate in their diet, but it’s not natural to them and may lead to health problems. Most cat owners feed commercially produced dry kibble cat food. It’s inexpensive and convenient to use.According to US feed regulations, cat food can derive up to 55% of its calories from carbohydrates. Average cat foods contain 22-40% carbohydrates (Verbrugghe & Heska, 2017). Compare that to the 2% carbohydrates found in wild cats’ diets. Now you can understand why experts question the nutritional composition of commercial cat food!Shop Hight Protein for Cats HERE! Average Cat Foods Are High Carb Why do cat food producers put so many carbohydrate ingredients in cat food? There are a few reasons: Kibble must contain some carbohydrate to hold its shape. Like a cookie, cat food won’t hold together unless it has some starch in it. Carbohydrate ingredients generally cost less than meat. This is easy to understand when you think about the cost of a pound of flour versus a pound of steak. The difference can be tremendous in large-scale production. Carbs are cheap, making the profit margin larger for the manufacturers. When carbohydrates combine with meat, the food has a better texture and becomes more palatable (3). Think about the difference between a low-quality cut of beef and meatloaf. Since cats don’t require carbohydrates as part of their diet, starches and grains act as cat food filler ingredients. But these aren’t the only fillers found in your average bag or can of cat food. 6 Cat Food Fillers to Avoid A cat food filler is an ingredient that has questionable nutritional value. There are many things in the average cat food your cat would never recognize as food, including: Meat by-products and grain by-products (chicken by-product, wheat middlings, corn gluten meal, etc.)–cheaper ingredients than meat, used to increase protein and calorie content Green peas, beet pulp, carrots, potato, sweet potato, etc . – a cheap way to increase calories and allow kibble to hold its shape Soy products (soybean meal, textured vegetable protein/TVP, isolated soy protein, etc.)–a cheaper source of protein than meat Carrageenan – used to improve food texture Food coloring (yellow 6, red 40, etc.)–makes the food more attractive to humans Chemically altered proteins (hydrolyzed chicken, hydrolyzed soy protein isolate, etc.)–increase protein content in hypoallergenic cat foods. Any of these filler ingredients could cause an adverse reaction when ingested by your cat. Anything that irritates the gastrointestinal tract can trigger chronic digestive and skin problems.Finding a high-protein cat food with no problematic fillers can be a real challenge. You could spend hours online or in a boutique pet food store reading labels and still walk away empty-handed. Koha Limited Ingredient Diet for cats was created to solve this problem. It has no grain, potato, soy or carrageenan, so you can be sure you’re feeding your cat a meat-based diet with no unnecessary fillers. References Plantinga E.A., Bosch G., Hendriks W.H. Estimation of the dietary nutrient profile of free-roaming feral cats: Possible implications for nutrition of domestic cats. Br. J. Nutr. 2011;106:S35–S48.Smithers, R. H. N. (1971). The Mammals of Botswana. University of Pretoria, South Africa.Verbrugghe, A., & Hesta, M. (2017). Cats and Carbohydrates: The Carnivore Fantasy? Veterinary Sciences,4(4), 55.

According to veterinary nutritionists, about 50% of all pet dogs are overweight or obese. Obviously, excess body fat slows your dog down, but it also acts as a source of inflammation. All the systems of the body are affected--from the bones and joints to the heart and liver.I know what you're thinking. You dread putting your dog on a diet because you feel so guilty for depriving your best buddy. I'll show you how to trade guilt for satisfaction while improving your relationship with your dog. Is My Dog Overweight? Morbidly obese dogs are easy to spot, but moderately overweight dogs are harder to recognize. We've all become so used to seeing overweight dogs, it almost seems normal for them to be pudgy.To evaluate your dog's weight, first look at the outline of his body from the side and from the top. If you can't see much of a waist from either direction, he's probably too fat.Next, feel his body with your hands. When you run your hands along the sides of his chest, you should be able to feel (but not see) the bumps of his ribs without pressing very hard. You should be able to feel the tops of his pelvic bones with a thin layer of fat over them when you pet his lower back.Check out a canine body condition score chart for more guidance. Ideal body condition is a 5 out of 9 on the chart. How Much Should My Dog Weigh? OK, so you've faced the fact that your dog is packing some extra padding. Now you need to figure out how much he weighs now and how much he should weigh.Your vet's office will have an accurate scale to weigh your dog and a record of his weight history. Many dogs are at their ideal weight when they're about two years old. Ask your vet for an opinion on the ideal weight for your dog.Recheck his weight every two weeks on the same scale once you start his weight loss regimen.Your vet clinic will most likely be happy to let you use their scale free of charge.A good goal is 1-2% of body weight loss every couple of weeks. If he's losing faster, increase food allotment by 5-10%. If he's not losing weight, speak to your vet for advice on what to do next. How Much Should I Feed My Dog for Weight Loss? Stating the obvious: you need to feed your dog less than he's eating now to get him to lose weight. A good place to start is to feed 25% less total food for weight loss. If you're not sure how much he's eating because he gets treats from other people in your home, use a dog nutrition calculator to estimate his caloric requirements. If your pup is more than 10% overweight, you might want to add 10% to the calorie calculation so his hunger doesn't become extreme. When he reaches the point of being only 10% overweight, change to feeding amount for his ideal weight. 3 Tricks to Help Your Dog Lose Weight Without the Guilt Most dog lovers dread putting their buddy on a diet. The guilt can be overwhelming when he gives you hungry puppy dog eyes ten times a day! There are some tricks you can use to help your dog feel less deprived (and you feel less guilty). 1. MORE Mental StimulationHouse dogs have cushy (and boring) lives compared to their wild ancestors. They don't have to spend all day hunting for food or mates. The big highlight of a house dog's day is meal time and snack time. If you remove the mental stimulation that constant snacking provides, you should replace it with something equally stimulating.Try teaching your dog some fun behaviors like putting his feet in a box or any clicker training trick you like. Most dogs love clicker training, especially when it's used for shaping activities. Make sure to use tiny, low calorie treats for rewards.Add extra exercise time by taking your dog for a walk around the block when he gives you sad/hungry eyes. Take him to some new places he will find interesting. Even a quick car ride around the neighborhood will work in a pinch. The idea is to provide mental stimulation, exercise, and novelty.2. MORE FoodWhen I say "more," I mean feed food with more volume. Wet food has the advantage over dry food due to its high moisture level. Since it hasn't had all the water removed, wet food calories take up more space in the stomach than dry food calories. The stomach has stretch receptors that send signals to the brain that it's full. Wet food stimulates those stretch receptors more!Putting a larger volume of food in the stomach helps your dog feel more satisfied. It's like the difference between eating a giant salad for lunch versus eating a donut. They both have the same amount of calories, but you'll feel more satisfied from the salad because it literally "fills you up."3. FEWER FeedingsA continuous flow of snacks all day may actually make your dog feel hungrier. When a dog eats many times each day, his insulin levels are elevated all the time. High insulin levels have been found to correlate with feelings of hunger in humans and the same effect likely applies to dogs.Feed one or two meals per day and very few, if any, between-meal snacks. If you're giving treats, use very low calorie/high fiber foods like baby carrots or apple slices. Substitute play, fun training exercises and other attention for treats.Remember that just like people, dogs need to break bad habits like constant snacking in order to lose weight. Skipping the snacks will soon become the new normal and your dog won't feel as hungry without them.

Have you ever wondered whether to feed your pet wet food or dry food? There are pros and cons to each choice, but in the end, wet food is best for pets. Dry pet food was introduced to the public in the late 1800’s. It was based on the idea of “hardtack” used as a ration for sailors at sea. Manufacturers later developed pet food in biscuit and pelleted form and promoted it as a cheaper, more convenient alternative to feeding table scraps to pets.It’s tough to argue with the fact that dry pet food is cheaper and easier to store. Putting aside cost and convenience, there are many reasons dry pet food doesn’t stack up to wet pet food when it comes to optimal health. Moisture Level is Higher To make dry pet food, a dough is formed by mashing and mixing ingredients. The dough is heated to relatively high temperatures to cook and dry the ingredients. It’s then extruded (think Play-Do Fun Factory) and cut into kibble. A low moisture level makes the food less likely to spoil so it is shelf-stable. The moisture level in the average dry pet food is 6-12%. Compare that to a moisture level of closer to 70% in their ancestral or wild diet.The moisture level in food is particularly important when it comes to feeding cats. Modern domestic cats descended from desert-adapted ancestors and have low thirst drive. Cats depend on the moisture in food for adequate hydration. Cats fed dry foods consume approximately half the amount of total water (in their diet and through drinking), compared with cats eating canned foods (Kane 1981).A higher moisture level benefits all the body systems, but nowhere is it more important than in the urinary system. When dogs and cats take in more moisture, they produce more urine. A larger urine volume dilutes the minerals that are naturally present in urine, reducing the chance of kidney and bladder stone formation.Finally, consider what happens to dry kibbles in your pet’s stomach. Most animals swallow the majority of their kibble meals whole. When the intact kibble reaches the stomach, a lot of liquid must be absorbed before the dry chunk breaks down. It takes a lot of digestive juices to accomplish this! The swollen kibbles can stay in the stomach for a long time which can cause discomfort and symptoms of indigestion. More Protein and Fat (Less Carbs) Wet (canned) pet food is lower in carbohydrates than dry pet food. Dry pet food must have a large quantity of starchy ingredients so it can be shaped and baked into its kibble form. The other reason carbohydrates make up a large part of dry food is that carbs are cheaper than protein and provide about the same amount of calories.Dogs and cats can eat a diet relatively high in carbohydrates, but a high carb diet is not similar to their ancestral/wild diet. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require nutrients that only come from meat. Wild cats survive eating rodents, small reptiles, and insects (Freeman 2013). They don’t eat corn or potatoes.Dogs have adapted more than cats to sharing the human diet, but many experts believe that even dogs fare better on lower carbohydrate diets. Neither cats nor dogs have a nutritional requirement for any carbohydrates. So why would you want to give them dry foods that have more than 50% of their calories coming from carbs? Food Stays Fresher Part of the reason dry pet food is so convenient is that it has a long shelf life. The truth is that the pet food shelf life has no legal regulation. Even if there is a “Best By” date on the bag, stores are not required to dispose of them after that. The food may or may not be nutritionally adequate after that date, but it’s still legal to sell it to the public.Pet food manufacturers calculate how much vitamins, fats, and minerals break down over time. Dry pet food is made with higher starting levels of nutrients. This is done in an attempt to ensure the food will still be nutritionally adequate after it has sat in a bag on a warehouse shelf for a long period of time. Bags of dry pet food that are at or past the “Best By” date most likely have some level of fat rancidity and decreased vitamin content.Wet pet food, on the other hand, is sealed into a container which prevents contact with the outside environment. That means that ingredients are less affected by oxidation, desiccation and moisture absorption. Properly stored wet/canned pet food will have some degradation of nutrients over time but can be expected to stay fresh longer than dry pet food in a bag. Conclusion Wet pet food is best for pets for numerous reasons. It’s closer to what dogs and cats would eat if they had to find their own food. For that reason, wet food tastes better and is more appealing to most animals. The lower carbohydrate level, higher moisture level and increased freshness of wet pet food make it the clear winning choice for optimal pet health. Resources Freeman, L. M., Chandler, M. L., Hamper, B. A., & Weeth, L. P. (2013). Current knowledge about the risks and benefits of raw meat-based diets for dogs and cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 243(11), 1549-1558.Kane, E., Rogers, Q. R., & Morris, J. G. (1981). Feeding behavior of the cat fed laboratory and commercial diets. Nutrition Research, 1(5), 499-507.Zoran, D. L. (2002). The carnivore connection to nutrition in cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 221(11), 1559-1567.

Like people, cats have their own set of dietary wants and needs. While cat nutrition is easy to overlook, it’s often what sets your cat up for a long and healthy life. Finding the best cat food may seem easier said than done, particularly when you have a picky eater on your hands, but getting your finicky kitty to join the “clean plate club” often starts by asking yourself a few key questions: Is there a particular ingredient that is causing your cat to react negatively? (i.e. upset tummy, excessive hair loss, lethargy) Does your cat dislike the texture, taste or temperature of the food? Are you giving your cat the right portion of food? Texture and taste play a huge role in conquering your kitty’s picky palette. If their usual bowl of food remains uneaten for a majority of the day, it’s best to start exploring other options in terms of texture and flavor. As natural hunters, your picky kitty will probably love wet, protein-rich food. Another quick tip? Cats have an aversion to cold food! So if possible, bring your cat’s food to room temperature before serving. Lastly, it’s important to understand how your picky eater likes to eat. Is your kitty a “grazer” who nibbles throughout the day? Or does he or she like to chow down all at once? Understanding how your cat enjoys his or her meals may also help determine how much food to put out at one time. It’s important to distinguish lack of hunger from true “pickiness.” Also, be careful not to overfeed your cat; serving size is a crucial factor in maintaining your cat’s health. Premium cat food may sound like a splurge, but by providing your pet with a nutrient-rich, well-rounded diet, you’re investing in their overall health and longevity. Once you do find the purrrfect food for your finicky cat, mealtime will be a breeze!

It's not just kids — cats also sometimes do the darndest things. But does occasional weird cat behavior have an underlying cause, or are they just showing their individual personalities? That depends on the behavior itself. Cat Eating Unusual Items? It’s Probably Pica. For example, pica may just be behavioral or may have an underlying medical cause. Pica in cats is the name given when cats eat unusual items, such as wool or cat litter or paper, etc. Some cats do this out of boredom. Some cats do this as a substitute for nursing. But other cats may have an unaddressed health issue, such as anemia, a dietary deficiency, or a brain disorder. If your cat habitually eats weird things around the house, a trip to the vet is a good idea. Even if your cat is just bored, certain items can cause dangerous intestinal blockages, so you may need help discouraging cat pica. Cat Love Playing With Weird Items? It’s Actually an Instinct. Does your cat think a small, empty box is the best present? It may seem strange to you that your cat would rather nap in a tiny box than on your bed or another surface in your house, but it's a very common behavior. Remember that your cat's ancestors lived in the wild and had to protect themselves. Sleeping in small, hidden areas is a behavior that's been passed down for generations. A box is the perfect hiding place for a cat because no one can sneak up on them, but they have a perfect view of the world — and potential attackers — from the opening. Cat Keep Head Butting? It’s How They Show Love. If your cat seems to "head butt" you, you're not alone. This somewhat strange cat behavior, technically known as cat bunting, is actually a way that your pet leaves his or her scent on you, so consider yourself "marked territory" when this happens. In a way, it's really a compliment because cats tend to only cat head butt people they like or trust. And the last weird cat behavior we'll address in this blog may be the most common — purring. Cat Persistently Purring? It’s Perfectly Normal. Cat purring is one of the first things a kitten can do, so it's a behavior that they probably always find comforting on some level. Many cat owners notice that a cat's purr will change depending on the situation. So, when your cat is sitting contentedly in your lap, you'll hear one purr, but a cry may be added when the cat is hungry. Cats also often purr when they are in pain or distress, which may seem odd since we often think of purring as a sign of happiness. Yet many experts believe that the vibrations in a cat's purr actually help speed healing and that purring is therapeutic. So, just like people, cats have their own quirky or weird behaviors that make us laugh. But in many cases, the behavior is common in many cats and may have a link back to their ancestors. In other cases, a compulsive behavior may need a trip to the vet just to rule out anything more serious. Generally speaking, these funny behaviors are just cats being cats. Want to know more about cat behavior, particularly as it relates to their diet? Read more about your favorite feline friends at the KOHA blog.

In recent months, pet owners all across the country have unfortunately had to face natural disasters. From hurricanes to floods to fires, keeping your pet safe adds an extra level of stress to an already difficult situation. When it comes to pet hurricane preparedness, the first question facing most families is generally whether or not to evacuate and, if evacuation is an option, whether it’s best to travel by car or plane with a pet. Both choices come with extra headaches, such as finding out an airline’s rules and restrictions or making sure there’s a pet-friendly hotel with availability on the road. You should make these calls as soon as possible so that you can get the reservations you need for your pet. Whether you’re staying put or traveling, there are some basic items you can plan for in advance of a storm or disaster: Food – Make sure you have enough pet food to last you several weeks. Leashes/Collars/ID Tags/Microchips – Be sure to have at least two leashes on hand, and make sure your pet’s collar is on correctly and has his or her name and your contact number on a tag. If your pet has a microchip, confirm that all of the information is accurate in case you are accidentally separated. It’s also a good idea to carry a photo of your pet in case he or she gets lost. Medicine – If your pet regularly takes any medicine, have extra on hand in case you can’t get to the store or vet for a prolonged period of time. Calming Supplements – If your pet is likely to get nervous in a hurricane or other disaster, speak to your vet in advance about ways to calm him or her. Your vet may prescribe medicine or recommend items you can buy to soothe your pet. Nootie.com has a line of Soft Chew Supplements including a calming supplement. Bathroom Options – If you have a cat, this may be as simple as making sure you have extra litter on hand or taking your litter box if you evacuate. If you own a dog and your dog won’t be able to go outside, you might want to buy pads for your home or “portable” grass options that are sold online and can be placed in your house or garage. Some people get creative and buy sod and line a kiddie pool with it. Also have extra cleaning supplies and plastic bags on hand to clean up accidents. Toys or distractions – If your pet is the kind to get completely distracted by a new toy for hours, you may want to buy a few to put away for the worst part of a storm. Also, if your pet has a favorite toy, keep it nearby to calm him or her. Motion Sickness – If you plan to fly or drive with your pet, talk to your vet about how you would treat potential motion sickness. Carriers/Harnesses – If you are flying with your dog or cat, make sure you have the right type of carrier. If you plan to drive with your pet, plan in advance for how he or she can sit safely in your car. There are a variety of options, from carriers to harnesses to gates. Water – Whether you are staying home or traveling, make sure you will have enough fresh water for your pet. In a hurricane, it’s possible to lose your power and water for days to weeks, so when you are stocking up on bottled water, make sure you buy enough for your pet too. Evacuation Shelters – If you are considering this option, keep in mind that most cities will offer pet-friendly shelters. However, some of these shelters may fill up early, so call around and see if you can make a reservation. Preparing for any kind of storm or natural disaster isn’t easy. With pets, there are just a few extra steps you need to take to make sure every member of your family, including the four-legged, is safe. Making plans in advance is a great way to save yourself aggravation and stress down the road. Have any pet hurricane preparedness tips you’d like to share? Leave a comment below!

It's not just kids — dogs also sometimes do the darndest things. But does occasional weird dog behavior have an underlying cause, or are they just showing their individual personalities? That depends on the behavior itself. For example, a lot of dogs chase their tail. Oftentimes, they just do it because they're full of energy, and it's an easy game to play alone — no toy or human required. But if your dog does it all the time, it could be a nervous habit or a sign of a physical condition, such as fleas, that needs to be treated by your vet. Does your dog do anything strange when it's time to get into his or her dog bed? Does he or she turn in circles or dig at the bed before deciding it meets some requirements you can't see? Theory has it that this behavior is a throwback to when canines lived in the wild and had to create their own bed from leaves and twigs and scare off any bugs. One behavior every dog owner is familiar with is their pet's way of greeting other dogs by sniffing their backsides. Why do they do this? No one really knows, but just remember that a dog's nose works a lot better than ours, and somehow they're learning something about their new friend through this olfactory introduction. A lot of dogs love to kick grass after they've done their business outside. Why? This is another throwback to their ancestors that lived in the wild. Dogs actually have glands with their personal scent under their paws, and the scent is released when they scratch. It's just another way they "mark" their territory in their "wild" backyard. And the last weird dog behavior we'll address in this blog may be the most common — licking. A lot people like to say their dog is "kissing" them or just likes the salty sweat on their skin, but a dog's licking is really more important than that. For starters, licking is one of the first behaviors a dog learns. It's how they relate to their mother from the moment they are born, so it's significant in their world. In addition to possibly signifying love and trust, many dogs lick as a submissive behavior. So if your dog licks you, he or she is letting you know you're in charge. So, just like people, dogs have their own quirky or weird behaviors that make us laugh. But in many cases, the behavior is common in many dogs and may have a link back to their ancestors. In other cases, a compulsive behavior may need a trip to the vet just to rule out anything more serious. Generally speaking, these funny behaviors are just dogs being dogs.

If you own a cat, you’ve probably dealt with cat vomit. But have you wondered why cats vomit? Just as with people, cats vomit for a variety of reasons, and they run the gamut from isolated incidents to a serious underlying cause. So when should you worry? If your cat vomits once and then resumes normal eating and “bathroom” habits, you generally don’t need to call or visit your veterinarian. Chronic cat vomiting, however, can be a sign of a more serious issue. Also, while cats love to groom themselves and then tend to vomit up hairballs, it’s important to try to reduce the amount of hair your cat swallows. A cat hairball can cause blockages and gastric problems for your four-legged friend. There are numerous reasons why cats vomit, and they include: Food allergies or intolerance Snack allergies or intolerance Medications Hairballs and other blockages Eating too fast Eating a full meal on an empty stomach Infection Motion sickness Parasites Kidney issues Ingesting chemicals or poison Gastritis or colitis Pancreatitis As you can see, some of these causes, such as a blockage or exposure to poison, require immediate medical attention. If your cat is vomiting continuously, has diarrhea, gags, seems lethargic or doesn’t want to eat or use the litter box, call or visit your vet immediately. If your cat just vomits once, remove food and water for a few hours and monitor him or her. If all else seems normal and your pet resumes eating and drinking when you return the bowls, everything is probably fine. If your cat vomits a second time in that timeframe, you can call your vet for advice and to see if a visit is warranted. Finally, if your cat tends to vomit hairballs, try brushing him or her on a regular basis. Salmon oil or coconut oil can also help with hairballs. Check with your veterinarian or pet nutritionist first. If you see your cat self-grooming, you can bring a toy over as a distraction. Cat vomit is not a pleasant topic, but it’s a common issue for owners. Just remember that many of the reasons cats vomit are not serious and are easily treated. Keep a close eye on your cat and call the vet if you see any other warning signs or if your cat vomits continuously or frequently.

Most dog owners have seen the behavior at one time or another—a dog just sitting by itself and chewing or licking incessantly at one paw. Sometimes, the cause is obvious. Other times, the paw looks fine to the naked eye. So, why do dogs chew their paws? Why Your Dog is Chewing Its Paws There are a variety of reasons, but it’s important to know that a dog licking or chewing its foot nonstop is not a normal behavior and should be looked at by a vet. Even if the chewing has become a habit, possibly caused by anxiety, it needs to be stopped before the dog creates a hot spot or other problem. The list of possible causes for chewing or licking a paw is long and includes: Food allergy Environmental allergy A tick or other bug caught in the foot or fur A pad that has been burnt by the pavement or other surface A wound to the pad or toe that isn’t healing A fractured bone in the foot A burr from the grass Pain that may be radiating from somewhere else Ingrown hair or toenail Anxiety Infection Frostbite Tumor As you can see, there are a lot of things that can bother your dog enough to make him or her lick a paw. In some cases, you won’t be able to see the problem. In others, you may notice redness or swelling or even see a cut or an object lodged in the foot. Some animals will also limp. What to Do If Your Don’t Won’t Stop Licking or Chewing His or Her Paw Whatever the cause, if you see your dog licking or chewing his or her paw, don’t panic. Many of the issues listed above can be easily diagnosed and remedied. In the case of a suspected food sensitivity, your vet will probably recommend a change to your dog’s diet. Proper diagnosis and treatment begins with a trip to your vet. If you’re worried your dog’s incessant chewing may be caused by what’s in their diet, try KOHA wet dog food. It’s full of problem solving ingredients that can help with common food allergies that may be making your pup uncomfortable. 

Cat dehydration can be hard to spot and dangerous. So how do you know if your cat is dehydrated?  Let’s first talk about what dehydration really means. What Does it Mean for a Cat to be Dehydrated? As a cat parent, it’s important to keep an eye on your cat’s water intake. If you either notice a decrease in water intake or if your cat has recently suffered from vomiting, diarrhea, drooling or heatstroke, look for dehydration symptoms or take your cat to the vet for tests immediately. Stress and some illnesses can also play a role in cat dehydration. Dehydration occurs when your cat isn’t getting enough water or is losing fluids for some reason. This can lead to an imbalance in electrolytes. You may think your cat can’t be dehydrated if you have a readily available water source out for him or her, but that’s not true.A dehydrated cat won’t necessarily appear thirsty or seek out water. In fact, most cats don’t feel the symptoms of dehydration until the problem becomes serious. How to Tell if Your Cat is Dehydrated Skin Elasticity Gently pull up on the skin between your cat’s shoulder blades and see how long it takes to return to normal. In a well-hydrated cat, the skin should return to normal quickly. Dry Gums Pull back your cat’s cheeks and give them a gentle touch. They should feel wet. If they feel sticky, your cat is probably dehydrated. Sunken Eyes Check to see if your cat has dull, unfocused, or sunken eyes.Dehydrated Coat Feel your cat’s coat and skin. Is it dry or flaky? If so, she may be dehydrated. How to Prevent Cat Dehydration Implementing a few simple changes at home can go a long way toward keeping your cat hydrated and feeling their best. Make sure fresh water is always available.It may help to have multiple water bowls out around the house and to make sure the bowls aren’t located near scary objects, such as washing machines or vacuum cleaners. Get a fountain for your cat.Cats prefer running water, and there are a variety of products available that provide your pet with a moving stream of water. Switch to wet food instead of dry.Cats generally don’t drink enough on their own and can get much of their daily water from wet food.  If you notice an obvious change in your cat’s drinking habits, or if their symptoms persist after making the above changes you should immediately schedule a visit to the vet to determine the severity and to devise a treatment plan. With dehydration, time is of the essence, so be sure to get a possibly dehydrated cat medical care as soon as possible.At KOHA, we make cat food with up to 80% moisture to help keep our furry friends hydrated and happy. Our minimal-ingredient meals not only deliver essential hydration, but they also taste great and are chock full of the essential proteins your cat needs to thrive. Find the perfect formula for your feline.

You’ve probably heard of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), but you may not know the difference. In fact, you may even think Irritable Bowel Syndrome is something that just happens in humans as opposed to our four-legged friends. As it turns out, cats and dogs do suffer from both Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome. It’s easy to think they’re the same issue, but they are different. SYMPTOMS OF IBS OR IBD IN CATS AND DOGS  Most of the symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome are similar, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. While dogs with IBS tend to have milder symptoms less often, it’s very hard to distinguish between the two without some type of testing. One general difference is that pets with IBD often lose weight and may feel the urge to go to the bathroom more often than normal but produce less stool each time.Some of the main causes of IBS in cats and dogs are: Food Sensitivity Stress Antibiotics Low Fiber Diet HOW TO DIAGNOSE IBS IN CATS OR DOGS To diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome, your vet will ask you about your pet’s history. Do the stomach issues only happen after a stressful incident, such as a trip to the doctor’s office or a bad storm? Your doctor will also want to discuss your pet’s food and snacks and will probably need a fecal sample to rule out other underlying causes, such as worms. Once a diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome is obtained, your vet may prescribe antispasmodic medicine or recommend a change in diet for your dog or cat. HOW TO DIAGNOSE IBD IN CATS AND DOGS Inflammatory Bowel Disease is more serious than IBS. The cause generally can’t be determined, but diet or infection may play a role. There are various types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, but the key component is the presence of inflammation. In people, we sometimes know IBD better by other names, such as gastritis or colitis. The specific diagnosis depends on the type of inflammation noted and where it’s located.While many tests can be run to try to determine the causes of a pet’s gastrointestinal issues, Inflammatory Bowel Disease is ultimately diagnosed by a biopsy that shows the presence of inflammatory cells.  The types of cells discovered let the doctor choose the path of treatment, which may include a change in diet or a variety of medicines, such as antibiotics, probiotics, corticosteroids, and others.  Inflammatory Bowel Disease cannot be cured, so the goal is to be able to control or minimize the symptoms. WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG OR CAT IS DIAGNOSED WITH IBS OR IBD If your dog or cat shows symptoms of IBS or IBD, the first step is a trip to the vet. It’s possible the cause is something else completely, such as worms or giardia, but your vet can begin testing and make sure that your cat or dog gets the proper treatment. Want to help cure symptoms of IBS or IBD in your cat or dog? KOHA can help.