 When cats do those gargantuan stretches, they're actually improving blood flow and getting their muscles loose and ready to move so they're ready to run, jump, pounce, or play whenever they decide to! According to Cornell’s Center for Materials Research, a cat’s limber spine is the reason behind those graceful and acrobatic escapades. The ability to easily move, contort, and bend also contributes to a cat’s momentum when running—and regular stretching aids in these phenomenal feline abilities. And, research shows that regular stretching is beneficials to humans, too. According to an article by Harvard Health Publishing, stretching is a mechanism for protecting independence and mobility, one Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital physical therapist remarked. Stretching is also a way to keep our muscles strong, flexible, and healthy. And, one way to work stretching into your regular well-being practices is to practice yoga. In addition to improving strength and balance, yoga promotes flexibility, Johns Hopkins Medicine reports. Yoga can also help with anxiety, chronic illness, and depression, Mayo Clinic research shows. So, the next time you see a cat stretch, think about how a good extension of your limbs could benefit you, too! And, if you would like to learn how to stretch like a cat join Phinney's for MeowMaste: Do Yoga with Cats! on March 28 from 7 – 8 p.m. EDT. This livestream hatha yoga class to benefit pets in need features instructor Tara Barile and cute, cuddly feline yogis. Space is limited, so if you would like to participate, we urge you to register soon.
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 Broozer Bob is like any other cat — he likes to play and to be petted and let us not forget sleep! But, he also has feline diabetes, and it can get difficult for a low-income pet parent to manage the frequent medical costs associated with this disease. Generally, there are two ways to control feline diabetes: One is insulin, which can cost around $150 per bottle and usually needs to be purchased every six to eight weeks. And two, prescription food, which runs around $50 for an 8-pound bag, which may last around six weeks. This is where Phinney’s Friends can provide support. Through donations from generous people, we are able to help low-income pet parents take the stress out of figuring out how to pay for medical supplies like the insulin and needles Broozer Bob needs to control his feline diabetes. Ann Marie, Broozer Bob’s pet parent, recently sent a lovely thank you note expressing her gratitude for Phinney’s help in caring for Broozer Bob’s. We’re so happy to play a role in allowing him to live out a happy life alongside Ann Marie. More on Feline Diabetes Feline diabetes can affect any cat but risk factors that increase a cat's risk of feline diabetes include obesity and inactivity. Male cats also tend to be at a higher risk. Some warning signs to look for are weight loss, increased appetite, increased thirst, excessive urination, changes in gait, difficulty jumping, vomiting, and lethargy. If you think your cat might be showing signs of feline diabetes, contact your vet.  While a short month, February certainly has a lot going on. It's National Pet Dental Health Month as well as National Cat Health Month. And since cats need a clean mouth as much as any other pet, we are giving our pet’s dental health special attention.
Why Dental Health Is Important It's so important to be on top of what's going on in your pet’s mouth. In between regular veterinary visits, look out for signs of gum disease. This can include red gums, yellow teeth, and stinky breath. Any of these could be a sign of serious oral disease that could lead to larger health issues if left untreated. And the other way around is also true! Improving your pet’s dental hygiene can improve his overall health. So if you are starting later in your pet's life, no problem. Your care will have an impact for the better. Simple Things You Can Do Brush your pet’s teeth daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove any food particles and prevent tartar buildup and plaque deposits. Only use toothpaste specially formulated for pets. If you feel brushing your pet’s teeth is impossible, the second best is to provide her with certain treats and food that promote dental cleaning. Starting to get your pet used to brushing slowly and gently is key, so they will love it or not mind it throughout his life. And hey, even though we are recognizing dental health this month, don’t give up in March! LOL. Do it all year long, and your pet will be healthier and love you for it. |
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Phinney's is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps people keep their pets. Phinney’s Friends is a - U.S. federal tax ID 94-3475924. All content on this website is the property of Phinney's Friends, Inc. unless otherwise noted. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
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