Page 25 – Ontario SPCA

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Orillia, ON (Jan. 27, 2025) – The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society would like to officially welcome Janna Handiak as the new manager of the Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre.

“I am so excited to work for the Ontario SPCA because helping animals find love, safety and happiness is more than a job – it’s a mission straight from the heart,” says Handiak.

Handiak takes the reins from long-time manager Carol Beard, who was with the Ontario SPCA family for over 40 years before retiring last year.

Handiak recently moved back to the area after 12 years in Ottawa, where she and her husband operated their own businesses. She is a proud mom and also shares her life with her dog Nixon and guinea pig Cocoa. When she’s not changing the lives of animals in need, Handiak is an avid traveller and advanced scuba diver, always seeking new adventures.

Handiak started the new year off on a paws-itive note, as she and her team found loving homes for 24 animals during the Ontario SPCA’s iAdopt for the Holdiays campaign, which took place from Dec. 1-24. The Orillia Animal Centre ended the year with 496 adoptions in 2024.

“My goal for the Orillia Animal Centre is to ensure it is a haven where every animal is safe and loved while we work to connect them with the perfect forever home,” says Handiak.

To learn more about the Orillia Animal Centre, and to view animals available for adoption, visit ontariospca.ca/orillia

Media Contact

Natalie Harris

Community Outreach Coordinator,

Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre

705-816-5576

[email protected]

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is a registered charity that has been changing the lives of animals for over 150 years. The Society provides care, comfort and compassion to animals in need in communities across Ontario. It values all animals and advocates to treat them with respect and kindness. The Society strives to keep pets and families together and does so through a variety of community support services, such as sheltering and adoptions, including emergency sheltering, feral cat management programs, animal transfers, food distribution, humane education, animal advocacy, and spay/neuter services.

The Ontario SPCA does not receive annual government funding and relies on donations to provide programs and services to help animals in need. To learn more, or to donate, visit ontariospca.ca. Charitable Business # 88969-1044-RR0002.

The Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre is located on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg. The Anishinaabeg include the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Pottawatomi nations, collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy.

Cats are curious creatures who sometimes have a way of sneaking a snack they shouldn’t. Do you know which common foods in your kitchen could be hazardous for your furry friend?

Foods to keep away from cats

Alcohol and caffeine – The effects that alcohol and caffeine have on humans is more severe in cats and can be life-threatening.
Chocolate – The theobromine in chocolate is highly toxic to cats. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate have the highest concentrations of theobromine, making them even more dangerous. Cats can suffer from abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death depending on the amount of chocolate consumed.
Fried and fatty foods – Aside from obesity and health related problems, fried and fatty foods can cause diarrhea in cats.
Garlic and onions – A staple in many kitchens, garlic and onions are toxic to cats. They can damage red blood cells, resulting in anemia, and can cause gastrointestinal upset, resulting in diarrhea.
Grapes and raisins – Kidney failure can occur in cats who consume grapes and raisins. Early warning signs include repeated vomiting and hyperactivity.
Milk, cream and cheese – After being weaned, a cat’s lactose intolerance increases. Feeding cats dairy products can cause stomach upset and discomfort.
Raw eggs – In addition to the risk of food poisoning, raw eggs can interfere with your kitty’s ability to absorb the B vitamin biotin.
Liver – If your cat eats large quantities of liver, it can cause vitamin A toxicity, which can affect bones and ultimately lead to painful or limited movement.

If you think that your furry friend has eaten something they shouldn’t, contact your veterinarian immediately to seek advice.

If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.

During the winter and early spring, your furry friend will encounter a lot of salt and ice during their daily exercise. The salt left on paws can cause irritation and can be dangerous if ingested. Using balm on your pet’s paws can help protect them from the elements.

Here’s our homemade recipe to use for your pet’s paws.

Homemade paw balm for pets

What you’ll need:

6, 1oz heat-safe tins
Small pot or double broiler
2 oz olive oil
2 oz coconut oil
1 oz shea butter*
4 tsp beeswax

*Be sure to use shea butter and not cocoa butter, as cocoa butter can be toxic to dogs.

Paw balm instructions

In a small pot – or double boiler – over low heat, melt the oils, shea butter, and beeswax. Stir continuously until it’s all melted and well blended.
Pour the mixture into the heat-safe tins.
Let them cool on the counter until they harden.
Cap and label.
Keep away from extreme heat.
Use within 1-2 years.

This recipe will make enough to fill approximately 21-24 standard lip balm tubes or 6-1 oz. tins.

If you walk your dog without any protective product applied, remember to wipe their paws with a warm towel once you come inside, and gently pat dry. This is to remove any excess salt and ice, which can cause irritation if ingested. You may want to also consider using salt-free alternative ice melters around your property.

When it comes to adopting an animal, senior cats and dogs often get overlooked. Yet these seasoned companions can bring immense joy, love, and loyalty into your life. Just like their younger counterparts, these older animals deserve a safe place to live out their lives. If you’re considering adopting, here are some tips to ensure a smooth and fulfilling transition for both you and your new furry friend.

Lifestyle matters

Senior animals thrive in calm, quiet environments. They often prefer cozy evenings and gentle companionship over the hustle and bustle of a busy household. If your home is a peaceful retreat, you might be the perfect match for a senior companion.

Exercise at their pace

While older animals still enjoy exercise, their needs are often less demanding than those of younger animals. For dogs, this might mean shorter, slower walks rather than long hikes, and avoiding going out in extreme cold or hot weather. Cats may prefer gentle play with a favourite toy. Adjusting activities to match their energy level ensures they stay active without overexertion.

Tailored nutrition

As animals age, their dietary needs change. Consult your veterinarian to understand what food and supplements will best support their health. A diet tailored to their specific needs can improve their energy, coat condition, and overall well-being.

Senior-friendly home design

Small adjustments can make a big difference in your senior animal’s comfort. Cats benefit from easily accessible litterboxes and cozy resting spots, while dogs may appreciate ramps to help them navigate furniture or stairs. Adding soft rugs can reduce strain on aging joints and prevent slips.

Supporting animals with vision loss

Vision loss is common in senior animals, but they can still lead happy, fulfilling lives. To reduce challenges, keep your animal’s environment consistent—avoid rearranging furniture or leaving obstacles in their path. Use textured mats or rugs to help them navigate and consider incorporating verbal cues or sounds to guide them during daily activities. With these adjustments, your senior animal can move confidently and feel secure.

Adopting a senior animal is a chance to give a deserving animal a loving home in their golden years. These loyal companions have so much to offer, and with a little preparation, you can ensure they thrive in their new environment. Visit ontariospca.ca to meet animals looking for their forever homes—you might just find your perfect match!

Thinking of hosting a Cupcake Day party this year in support of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society? Getting started is a piece of cake! You can register for free here and bake a difference for animals in need!

Once registered, you can set up your very own personal fundraising page where you can promote your event, collect donations and share your reason for making winter the sweetest season for animals in need!

Pet-friendly tips

With your personal fundraising page set up and shared with friends and family, you can focus on planning the big day! If your Cupcake Day bash will be pet-friendly, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Cupcake sampling: Though it might be tempting to offer them a treat, your pets should not be sampling your cupcakes. Chocolate, sweets and baked goods can be dangerous for pets if ingested. Check out this blog for a great “pupcake” recipe!

Pupcakes are made with dog friendly ingredients. Your furry friend will certainly think they are “pawesome!”

Pet-safe space: If you have a lot of people coming over for your party, make sure you create a safe place for your pets to hide while guests are arriving. Consider putting them in a room with, their bed, some of their favourite toys and the radio on softly. Once everyone settles in, you can bring your pet out to join the party!

Furry guests: A party is not a good time to introduce pets to each other. If you have friends who want to bring along their dog, consider having a meet and greet at an earlier date so your pets can get familiar before the party.

With these tips in mind, your Cupcake Day party is sure to be a hit! Thinking of planning a party for your human friends only? Check out our Celebrate Cupcake Day page for more sweet party inspo!

One of the most distinct features of a cat is the thin, wispy hairs coming from their cheeks called whiskers. Other than just being ticklish when they rub their head against you whiskers serve key purposes for our feline friends.

Sensor tools

Cats use their whiskers to guide them through daily functions. The whiskers help them navigate their environment by stimulating nerves in the hair follicle when a whisker brushes against an item. The subtle feeling informs the feline about the size, shape and speed of nearby objects. Cats see better at a distance and have difficulty focusing on objects up close. Whiskers help cats “see” objects right under their noses, by sending air currents and vibrations through the whiskers to inform them of the distance and location of their food bowls, toys, and more.

Balancing buddies

Special sensory glans at the base of a cat’s whisker called proprioceptors send messages to the cat’s brain about the position of their body and limbs, keeping the cat aware of each body part.

Emotion communicators

Cats have many obvious ways of communicating their emotions including noises, but their whiskers are also another clue as to how they are feeling! When a cat is resting and content, their whiskers are also relaxed and resting by their face. When a cat is active or feeling threatened, their whiskers can communicate these emotions by either being elevated or pulled taut to their skin and then directed outwards, toward a threat.

How to care for your cat’s whiskers

Your cat’s whickers aren’t just an adorable accessory, they also serve various important roles. Cats use their whiskers to navigate, sense nearby objects, and maintain balance. Whiskers also help cats express emotions and gauge their surroundings.

Each whisker on a cat can be traced back to a specific spot in their brain that is responsible for communication. Because whiskers are so important to a cat’s ability to function, it is imperative that you do not cut, pluck or pull on their whiskers. By doing so, it could decrease their awareness and cause confusion and disruption for your feline friend. Cats “shed” a whisker on occasion, but they do grow back!

If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation.

Play aggression in cats happens when a cat becomes overstimulated during play, leading to potential aggressive behaviour. This behaviour often involves play predatory actions towards moving objects, such as a person’s hands, feet, legs, or ankles. Cats showing inappropriate play behaviour may lack socialization and are often younger cats (less than three years old) that were weaned early or hand raised. These cats may not be social with other cats and may have been the only cat in their previous environment.

Causes

Cats may act aggressively during play due to fear, especially if they did not have positive interactions with people during their key socialization period (3-16 weeks of age). These cats may be shy, avoid people, and exhibit high levels of fear, anxiety, and stress. They can become aggressive if they feel cornered or forced to interact.

Regular, gentle interactions using positive reinforcement, such as rewarding desired behaviours with treats or praise, can effectively modify and prevent this behaviour. For example, when your cat behaves calmly during play, you can reward them with a treat or affection, reinforcing this desirable behaviour.

Signs

Recognizing the signs of “play aggression” can help you address it before it escalates. Common signs include a crouched body, focused stare, dilated pupils, tail twitching or moving side to side, ears back, and behaviours such as chasing, pouncing, scratching, biting, or swatting.

How to reduce play aggression

To reduce the chances of inappropriate play, it’s important to observe your cat’s behaviour and intervene early. If you notice signs of overstimulation, end the play session before your cat becomes aggressive. Never let your cat play directly with your hands or feet, as this can encourage inappropriate behaviour.

Using interactive toys can help remove human hands and other body parts from direct play. Throw small balls, crumpled paper, or foil, and use feather wands to engage your cat in healthy play activities. Shorter play sessions are also beneficial. Daily play sessions of 5-15 minutes throughout the day can help channel your cat’s energy and predatory instincts appropriately.

If the play starts to escalate, distract your cat by throwing small balls or toys away from you. This can redirect their play activity and prevent them from seeing you as a target.

By understanding and addressing “play aggression,” you can create a safer and more enjoyable environment for both you and your cat. Frequent, gentle handling and positive reinforcement can go a long way in modifying and preventing this behaviour.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (Jan. 14, 2025) – The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is reminding the public to take extra precautions to keep pets safe around lakes and rivers, which may not be safe.

To help ensure a safe winter for everyone, stay vigilant around bodies of water and keep these five tips in mind when out with your furry friend:

Always use a leash – Keep your dog on a leash when walking near water. If you live near the water, always supervise pets outdoors. Hypothermia can set in quickly and your dog may not be able to climb back on the ice if they fall through.
Play away from the ice – Avoid areas where your dog might be tempted to explore dangerous ice. Choose safe locations for winter play and exercise.
Check ice safety – Before venturing out the ice, check ice thickness. Slushy, thawed, or recently refrozen ice is particularly dangerous, as is ice near flowing water. Avoid venturing onto ice at night when visibility is reduced.
Know the risks in your area – Fast-flowing water and slippery banks can increase hazards. Stay aware of your surroundings to keep your pet safe.
Be prepared for emergencies – Be cautious and avoid putting yourself at risk if trying to rescue a pet. Carry a cell phone for quick access to emergency services.

“Animals are naturally curious and unpredictable, which means even the most well-trained pet can unexpectedly dart onto unsafe ice. The consequences can be devastating,” says Jennifer Bluhm, Vice President of Community Outreach Services with the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “Keeping your pet on a leash near waterways and choosing safe play areas could be the difference between a fun winter outing and a tragedy.”

For more tips on keeping your pets safe this winter, visit ontariospca.ca

Media Contact

Media Relations

Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

905-898-7122 x 375

[email protected]

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Provincial Office sits on the traditional territory of the Wendat, the Anishinabek Nation, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, the Mississaugas of Scugog, Hiawatha and Alderville First Nations and the Métis Nation. This territory was the subject of the Dish With One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, an agreement between the Iroquois Confederacy and the Ojibwe and allied nations to peaceably share and care for the resources around the Great Lakes. The treaties that were signed for this particular parcel of land are collectively referred to as the Williams Treaties of 1923.

When the temperature drops, you may wonder what happens to the community cats, which some people refer to as feral cats, that live in your neighbourhood. While community cats are adept at surviving outdoors, the harsh winter months can make it very difficult for them to find food, water and shelter. Extreme winter weather can lead to frostbite and, sadly, some cats perish from the cold.

If you’d like to support community cats in your neighborhood, one way is to provide them with a shelter to give them a safe, warm place during our harsh, cold winters.

Feral cat shelters

Winter shelters are critical for feral cats living in frigid climates and can help them survive. A good shelter is one that’s properly sized, well insulated, and waterproof. During heavy snowfall, make sure the entryway is cleared of snow so that cats can come in from the cold.

Size: During colder temperatures, feral cats may huddle together within a shelter to stay warm. The Ontario SPCA shelters are 76L totes and can house 1-2 cats.
Insulation: Straw works best for insulation because it allows the cats to burrow and doesn’t hold moisture. Replace materials regularly to make sure insulating materials aren’t moist or dirty. Avoid using blankets, towels or folded newspapers, since they absorb body heat. Hay is also to be avoided, as it can cause irritation and absorb moisture.
Building materials: There are several options for building materials, including wood, heavy cardboard or storage bins. If you would prefer to make your own shelter, you can follow the instructions in our how-to video. For detailed written instructions on building your own feral cat shelter see our DIY – Step by Step: How to Build a Feral Cat Shelter.
Location: The shelter should be placed somewhere quiet and away from noise and traffic. An ideal location is somewhere the cats will feel safe from predators. You may want to place it close to a wall to provide some protection from the wind.

Pick up a shelter today

Ontario SPCA and Humane Society animal centre locations are selling feral cat shelters this year for $20 each. Limited quantities are available. Call your local animal centre to ask if they are participating in this program.

Learn more about our feral cat support programs here.

As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need. Please consider donating today.

The winter can often mean more time spent indoors for us and for our furry family members. There are many benefits to spending time indoors with your animals, such as bonding and being in a comfortable, supervised space. We’ve put together a few activities that you can do at home to keep your furry friend engaged and active this winter season.

Below are some fun activities you can do with your furry friend inside your house.

Activities for cats

Vantage point

Giving your cat a vantage point to enjoy what is going on outside can be a great way to provide enrichment. Having a window that is clear of other objects and completely secure can give your cat a special spot to watch the squirrels and birds all day long.

Discovery objects

Cats also enjoy exploring new objects. There are a multitude of different objects within your house that you can lay out for your cat to explore. Some suggestions include a cardboard box, wrapping paper, or paper shopping bags. Another great object is a faucet left on at a slow drip for a short period of time. Think outside the box and be creative, but make sure you are supervising your cat around new objects to ensure they are safe.

You can also try making a homemade food puzzle for your cat.

Training

You could also try training your cat new tricks. Much like dogs, cats can be trained using food rewards or their favourite toy. Check out some great tips here: How to clicker train your cat.

For more on toy enrichment in your cat’s life, check out our blog, why your animal needs toy enrichment.

Activities for dogs

Hide and seek

This is a fun game that can keep your dog and your kids entertained! It will also provide good practice for basic cues like sit, come and stay/wait. The idea of the game is to have your dog wait in one room, while you go hide in a simple spot. Once hidden, you will call your dog and they can come find you. Once they find you, reward them with a treat or praise.

Remember to change the game as needed to meet your dog’s skill level so you can keep it fun. If your dog does not have strong “wait” skills, you can have someone else hold your dog on a leash while you hide. Don’t forget to reward your dog for waiting patiently. If your dog has never played this game before, start off slow by just stepping around the corner and work up to other rooms.

Interactive games

Puzzle games and treat dispensing toys are another great way to entertain your dog. If you don’t have any of these at home or want to switch things up, try making your own. Even a muffin tin and some tennis balls can be used to make a puzzle game. Simply place some kibble or treats in a few of the cups of the muffin tin, then cover all the cups with a tennis ball and let your dog search for the food.

You can also play the shell game with your dog using three cups and a treat. Place the treat under one of the cups and shift the cups around a couple of times. Then let your dog find the cup with the treat under it.

Teach a new skill

Teaching a new skill or strengthening an existing one is another great way to mentally stimulate your dog. Try teaching your dog to go to their bed on cue or clean up their own toys. Another great skill to brush up on is loose–leash walking. If your dog struggles on walks, practicing inside with minimal distractions is a great first step to get things back on track.

To start, use a hands-free leash (or a leash attached to a belt) while doing daily tasks like tidying up. Move in different directions and, when your dog follows you, reward them with treats, praise or a favourite toy. You can use verbal cues like “come” or their name if they don’t understand at first. Over time, change your pace and add in more distractions to challenge your dog.

We hope you found this information helpful! As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need. Please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation.

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society would like to welcome Janna Handiak as the new manager of the Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre. Janna brings her diverse career experience and deep passion for animals to her new role. From a background in hospitality to running her own business, Janna is ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals.

A leap of inspiration

Janna’s decision to apply for this role stems from a moment of inspiration years ago.

“While working in hospitality, I met someone whose journey left a lasting impression,” says Janna. “He left to work at the Ontario SPCA, and he completely thrived! It was as if he’d found his calling, transforming into someone deeply fulfilled and motivated. His story stuck with me, showing how the right environment – one working with animals, for me – can unlock potential. Now, I’m ready to take my own leap.”

A diverse career background

Janna’s career spans various industries and levels of management. While much of her experience lies in the hospitality sector, she has also explored and grown in other fields. For the past 13 years, Janna and her husband owned a business in the Ottawa area, which has since evolved into a consulting firm specializing in leadership and organizational development. This range of experience equips her with the leadership and organizational skills needed to oversee the Orillia Animal Centre’s day-to-day operations.

Leading with passion

As the Orillia Animal Centre Manager, Janna’s role involves ensuring the well-being of the animals, maintaining high standards of care, and supporting a dedicated team of staff and volunteers.

“I’m excited to build strong connections with the team, our volunteers, and the incredible donors who support us year after year,” Janna says. “I’m equally excited to get to know all our new furry friends and help find them their new forever homes!”

When asked about her favourite aspect of the role so far, Janna highlights the fast-paced learning and variety her days bring, adding that every day brings something completely different.

Life beyond her role

Outside of work, Janna’s life is just as vibrant. She lives with her husband of 17 years, their teenage daughter, a silver Lab named Nixon, and a 10-year-old guinea pig named Cocoa.

“When we aren’t running around getting my daughter to her cheer practices (she is on a World level team as well as Team Canada), we love to travel, scuba dive, and camp together,” Janna says.

A message for aspiring animal advocates

Janna encourages others to consider joining the Ontario SPCA team.

“If you are passionate about animals and enjoy working with like-minded, dedicated people, I highly recommend considering any opportunity at the Ontario SPCA,” she says. “It’s a chance to apply your existing skills in a way that directly supports animals and contributes to a meaningful cause. This could be the perfect place for you to make a difference while embracing a rewarding change.”

Janna’s inspiring journey and enthusiastic approach make her a paw-sitive addition to the Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre. Welcome to the team, Janna!

Join the Ontario SPCA team

Are you interested in joining our team? The Ontario SPCA has a wide variety of employment opportunities supporting animal well-being across Ontario. Visit our employment page to see current job opportunities.

Guest blog by Dr Emmanuel Fontaine, Scientific Communications Veterinarian at Royal Canin North America

In my continuous journey to decode the infectious causes of diarrhea in kittens, I’m diligently reviewing numerous scientific articles. I’m now delving into the intriguing world of Giardia infections. This parasite captivates me because it exemplifies a key principle I always stress: the true worth of a diagnostic test is in its interpretation. My initial search for recent studies was somewhat fruitless—while there’s ample research, the majority centers on how cats transmit Giardia to humans, emphasizing its zoonotic nature (a disease that can spread from animals to people). Yet, undeterred, I continued my search and finally struck gold! I have gathered compelling data and insights to enhance your understanding of Giardia in kitten poop and its broader consequences.

What is Giardia?

Giardia is a protozoan parasite—a single-celled organism that can cause intestinal infections in cats.

It might surprise you to learn that Giardia is quite common among our feline companions.

In the US, approximately 10.3% of cats showing clinical signs are infected with Giardia. A similar prevalence was reported in a study from western Canada, where 9.9% of cat samples tested positive for the parasite.

Importantly, Giardia appears to have a preference for younger cats.

Research indicates that kittens under six months old experience higher infection rates.

This pattern is consistent across multiple studies, underscoring the heightened susceptibility of kittens to this intestinal parasite.

What Are the Clinical Signs of Giardia in Kittens?

It’s important to note that a considerable number of cats with Giardia do not exhibit any symptoms.

This silent carrier state is quite prevalent, especially in adult cats.

However, clinical symptoms are more commonly observed in kittens, with diarrhea being the most prominent and clear indication.

In cases of Giardia, the feces of infected kittens often have a strong odor, appear pale, and may contain mucus, which is frequently characterized by a distinctive yellow tint.

This coloration occurs because Giardia interferes with the normal digestion of fats.

In puppies, such disruption can sometimes lead to coprophagia, a behavior less commonly seen in kittens.

While the symptoms I’ve mentioned are significant indicators, they are not conclusive for diagnosis.

Giardia is adept at concealing itself, and with other significant pathogens like feline panleukopenia in the mix, as well as the possibility of multiple infections, precise diagnosis is critical.

How to Protect Your Kittens from Giardia?

Implementing Medical Prophylaxis

A crucial aspect of prevention is establishing a customized deworming protocol, especially important where Giardia is a known risk.

A common query in veterinary clinics is about the “best” deworming protocol.

In reality, the “best” protocol is adaptable, designed to target the specific parasites present in your environment.

Personally, I begin with a broad-spectrum treatment that addresses common threats: roundworms, hookworms, Giardia, and tapeworms.

I refer to the CAPC parasite prevalence map to guide my choices.

Adjustments are then made based on the results of fecal tests or in response to any outbreaks of diarrhea, especially those involving coccidia or Giardia.

Why Sanitary Prophylaxis is Crucial in Combating Giardia?

Sanitary prophylaxis revolves around maintaining cleanliness and hygiene to ward off diseases, serving as an unsung hero in the fight against infections.

The way I see it, sanitary practices are not just important—they are the cornerstone of health and safety.

The fight against a foe like Giardia often starts with basic yet effective measures such as diligent poop scooping.

Since Giardia cysts can remain in the environment for months, prompt removal of feces is a vital first step in defense.

However, while scooping is crucial, it’s the follow-up disinfection that truly strengthens your defense against Giardia.

The toughness of Giardia cysts presents a challenge, yet certain disinfectants, such as bleach and quaternary ammonium compounds, have proven effective.

Among various cleaning methods, steam cleaning is particularly valuable in my preventive arsenal.

The intense heat from a steam cleaner can penetrate the defenses of Giardia cysts, ensuring they are eradicated from your setting.

Especially for kittens, the litter box is a critical focus for hygiene.

The Vital Importance of Nutrition

An often overlooked but powerful ally in the fight against diarrhea in kittens, including the prevention of “giardia kitten poop,” is nutrition.

When your kitten experiences diarrhea, the traditional advice has been to withhold food for 12-24 hours, providing only water.

However, it’s important to note that this approach is now a topic of debate among veterinary professionals.

Historically, the idea behind fasting during gastrointestinal issues was to give the bowel a rest, allowing it to recover.

However, recent insights challenge this notion.

Studies suggest that fasting may actually trigger intense intestinal contractions, leading to discomfort. Conversely, feeding can help reduce these contractions, promoting better rest and nutrient absorption.

Additionally, the presence of food can offer protection to the intestinal lining against toxins.

Considering these findings, in cases of mild diarrhea in kittens, continuing to feed them is now considered advisable.

Opt for a highly digestible diet specifically formulated to support digestive health.

Furthermore, the choice of diet can significantly impact immune support.

Diets containing antioxidants or beta-glucans are formulated to boost the immune response to vaccination.

Why this matters?

Becase these nutrients serve as functional components that can prime the immune system, potentially providing kittens with a stronger defense against infections like Giardia.

Once you’ve chosen a suitable diet for your kitten’s diarrhea, it’s crucial to stick to it strictly.

Avoid the temptation to offer treats or additional food items on the side, as these could have been the initial trigger for the digestive upset.

Maintaining a consistent diet ensures that your kitten’s digestive system isn’t overwhelmed with various types of food, which could complicate or prolong the recovery process.

Consistency is key to restoring and maintaining your kitten’s digestive health.

Consider meal-feeding your kitten with small, frequent meals instead of free-feeding.

While this approach may differ from the usual practice for cats, it can be beneficial during digestive upsets. Starting with four meals per day has shown success in many cases.

Wet food is particularly useful during this time as it typically contains fewer carbohydrates.

Digestive issues can impair the function of brush-border enzymes crucial for carbohydrate digestion. By offering wet food, you reduce the carbohydrate load, easing the digestive process. Once the issue resolves, you can gradually reintroduce dry food.

Remember, nutrition involves not just what you feed but also how and how much you feed. These principles are essential in managing gastrointestinal issues in kittens.

While the landscape of Giardia infection in kittens hasn’t undergone significant changes in recent years, I’m grateful for the opportunity to revisit this topic. It serves as an important reminder of its prevalence and impact. As my former boss and mentor wisely said, “Teaching is repeating,” and the insights shared here are crucial, given Giardia’s notorious role in causing kitten diarrhea. After reading it, I hope you realize that we are not powerless in protecting our feline friends from this common adversary. There’s much we can do here!

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Emmanuel Fontaine graduated from the Toulouse Veterinary School in 2004, he continued his studies at the Alfort Veterinary School (Paris) as trainee Vet in the domestic carnivore unit of the Reproduction Department. From 2005 to 2011, he worked at the Centre d Étude en Reproduction des Carnivores (CERCA) [Research Centre for Reproduction in Carnivores], a unit specializing in pet breeding assistance. Emmanuel Fontaine is also qualified at the European College for Animal Reproduction (ECAR) and completed his PhD in 2012 on the use of GnRH agonists in canines. From September 2011 to September 2018, he worked as Technical Services Veterinarian for the PRO team at Royal Canada. He then was in charge of Scientific Communication for the Americas until August 2022. He now works as Senior Scientific Communications Veterinarian for Royal Canin North America.