Paw Prints

Question: Is it safe to give my dog tennis balls to chew? 

Answer: Skip it. I would opt for a different toy. The nylon on tennis balls is notorious for wearing away teeth, especially when the fuzz picks up sand and dirt and becomes sandpaper. The enamel is worn down on the teeth as your pup chews on this sandpaper-esque chew. This can lead to pulp exposure, gum erosion and dental disease. If your pooch is a serious chewer, opt for a solid rubber ball that wont rip into pieces. 

Question: I have heard of putting sunscreen on dogs, but should I put some on my white cat who likes to sunbathe in the window? 

Answer: Ultraviolet radiation is definitely a danger for white-faced cats and you are right to be concerned. Window glass usually blocks only UVB rays, not the dangerous UVA rays that can lead to skin cancer. Cats, especially white cats, are known for getting squamous cell carcinoma, a skin cancer that we usually see develop on the nose, ears and face. To help your kitty, you can try applying pet safe sunscreen on the sparse hair areas. You can also look into installing UV blocking film on the windows your kitty likes to sunbathe in or just closing the curtains. If you notice any crusts or lesions, especially ones that just don’t seem to heal, have your vet check them out. 

Please send your questions to Dr. Marina Shepelev at OwegoPawPrints@gmail.com, or visit www.emvets.com.

Dr. Marina Shepelev is an associate veterinarian practicing medicine at the Endless Mountain Owego Vet Center. She welcomes weekly questions concerning your furry friends.