PET STORES INFORMATION

Cancer Signs

2008-03-20T13:27:00.000-07:00

Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

Q.
What are signs of cancer in cats?
A.
According to the Veterinary Cancer Society, the 10 most common signs of cancer in cats are:
Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow.
Sores that do not heal.
Weight loss.
Loss of appetite.
Bleeding or discharge from any body opening.
Offensive odor.
Difficulty eating or swallowing.
Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina.
Persistent lameness or stiffness.
Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating.
These signs can also be present in many other diseases; they do not necessarily mean your cat has cancer. Any cat showing any of the above signs should be examined by a veterinarian.

article by http://www.peteducation.com/

Squamous Cell Tumors

2008-03-20T13:26:00.000-07:00

Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

Squamous cell carcinoma is a fairly common tumor found in cats and dogs. It is usually associated with tumors in the mouth, nasal area, skin, and ears. There can be a strong correlation between exposure to the sun and an increase in incidence of this cancer. Diagnosis and treatment are similar regardless of the location or species.
Cats that spend time outdoors in the direct sunlight are at an increased risk of developing a squamous cell tumor on their ear. Cats with thin, light colored hair on their ears are at the greatest risk. While sun induced damage is one of the biggest causes of this cancer, it should be noted that the tumor will also develop in indoor cats and in locations like the inner ear or mouth where sunlight does not penetrate.
Diagnosis is usually confirmed by a biopsy. Surgical removal of the tumor and the surrounding tissue is usually the treatment of choice. These tumors may be locally aggressive but are usually slow to metastasize and are often eliminated with surgery. Prevention of reoccurrence consists of limiting the time that susceptible animals spend out in the sun. When thin-coated or sensitive animals do spend time outdoors during the prime daylight hours, a waterproof SPF 15 or greater sun block should be used on the ears and nose area.
References and Further Reading
Ettinger, S; Feldman, E. Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine. W.B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia, PA; 2000.
Greene, C. Infectious Diseases of the Dog and Cat. W.B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia, PA; 1998.

article by http://www.peteducation.com/

Radiation Therapy

2008-03-20T13:25:00.000-07:00

Holly Nash, DVM, MSVeterinary Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

In veterinary medicine, radiation therapy was first attempted at the beginning of the twentieth century. During the last 50 years, large advances have been made. The use of histopathology, MRI, and CAT scans has resulted in accurate diagnosis of the type and location of tumors. New technology has increased the effectiveness and decreased the side effects and risks of radiation therapy.
Under what conditions is radiation therapy used?
Radiation therapy can be used in combination with surgery and/or chemotherapy to provide permanent control or death of a tumor. It is used for tumors that have not spread to other sites in the body and offers a potential cure for some localized tumors. In other cases, radiation therapy can be used for its palliative effect (relieving the signs of disease). Even if the tumor can not be destroyed, at least shrinking the tumor may improve the quality of life of the animal by reducing pressure, bleeding, or pain.
Which tumors are commonly treated with radiation therapy?
Oral tumors and tumors within the nasal cavity often respond well to radiation therapy. Brain tumors have been successfully treated, as have small skin tumors, including some mast cell tumors and squamous cell carcinomas. Lymphoma in both cats and dogs has responded to radiation therapy, and it is often used in conjunction with chemotherapy. The management of bone tumors, including osteosarcoma, has used radiation therapy as part of the regimen.
In considering good candidates for radiation therapy, issues that must be included in the decision-making process include:
The owner's wishes, commitment, time, and financial resources
The pet's overall health and presence of any other disease conditions
The probability of control of the tumor, which must take into account its size, type, location, and any metastasis
Availability of other treatments, e.g.; surgery, chemotherapy
Predicted outcome of radiation and other treatments in relation to cosmetic effects and function
How does radiation therapy work?
Using radiation therapy, beams of photons, electrons, or gamma rays are focused on the tumor. When the photon, electron, or wave hits the nucleus of a cell, it alters it, destroying the ability of the cell to divide and grow. The slower growth rate and ultimate death of the cancer cells causes the tumor to shrink over time. Radiation affects both normal and cancer cells, but the radiation treatment is designed to produce the maximum effect on the tumor and minimize the effect on normal tissue.
What are the types of radiation therapy?
There are many types of radiation therapy. Some radioactive particles can be injected into the body and localize in specific tissues. Radiation therapy using iodine, which collects in the thyroid gland, has been used to treat thyroid disease, such as hyperthyroidism in cats.
"Brachytherapy" is the term used to describe the radiation therapy that is administered through radioactive implants. Implants of iridium-192 are the most commonly used. Radioactive wire containing iridium-192 can be placed using a large needle, or through minor surgery. This type of therapy has been used to treat nasal tumors in dogs and fibrosarcomas in cats.
Beams of radiation are the type of therapy most people are familiar with. A linear accelerator can be programmed to produce varying levels of photon or electron beams that are focused on a certain area on or within the body. Large orthovoltage machines, which are very large x-ray machines, form beams of electrons. Cobalt-60 machines produce gamma electromagnetic waves. These beams, or waves, are focused on the tumor, and when the actual burst of radiation therapy is over, no radioactivity remains in the body.
How is beam radiation therapy administered?
During the treatment, the animal will need to be anesthetized because he cannot move during the procedure. During the first session, the animal is placed on the table. Using radiographs (x-rays), MRIs, and CAT scans, the exact location of the tumor is located. Using mathematical formulas and mapping techniques, the machine is programmed and positioned to focus the beam on the tumor. Various points on the animal's skin may be marked to provide "landmarks" for subsequent treatments. This machine setup usually requires 30-60 minutes. The actual treatment time during the following sessions is very short, and the animal is usually anesthetized for only 10-15 minutes.
How often is radiation therapy administered?
When administered with curative intent, radiation therapy is given in small fractions over 2-5 weeks, depending on the size and location of the cancer, the pet's general health, and the type of cancer they have. For palliative effects, radiation therapy is given in large fractions, usually once weekly for three weeks.
What are the risks and side effects of radiation therapy?
Severe toxic effects of radiation therapy in pet animals are rare, and occur in less than 5% of the animals treated. Because the radiation affects all cells, some normal cells with be killed. Side effects of radiation therapy occur more often with curative attempts, and can be categorized into acute and chronic problems. Acute injuries begin during or shortly after the completion of therapy. They arise in tissues within the radiation therapy field that are growing and dividing rapidly. The most common acute effects are skin problems that mimic a severe sunburn, which sometimes causes the animal to scratch. Since the scratching will further traumatize the skin, medications may be prescribed to reduce the itchiness. Hair loss often occurs at the area where the beam penetrates and leaves the body. The hair will grow back with time, but may be darker or lighter.
Oral and nasal tumors may develop a foul odor as they die.
Chronic side effects arise from damage to tissues that slowly replace old, dying, or damaged cells (i.e., bone, retina, brain). Because these cells reproduce slowly, it takes a longer period of time for them to be replaced. Clinical syndromes such as the formation of bony sequestra, retinal lesions, and neurologic signs may appear, depending upon the area of the body being treated. If the eye is near the radiation field, a loss of tears (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) or vision may occur. Chronic side effects are dose limiting, meaning the dose of radiation may need to be limited if chronic side effects are observed. Veterinary radiation therapy protocols are designed to minimize long-term problems.
There is always a slight risk associated with general anesthesia, but the pet is monitored carefully while it is anesthetized, and the duration of anesthesia is generally short. Prior to radiation therapy, each animal is assessed through laboratory tests and a physical examination.
Radiation therapy in pets usually does NOT cause systemic side effects (tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea).
How much does radiation therapy cost?
Depending on the type and number of treatments, radiation therapy may cost $900 - $3,500. The cost is a result of the expensive and complex equipment needed, anesthetic and laboratory costs, and the expertise of the many veterinary health care professionals involved.
References and Further Reading
Burk, RL; King, GK. Radiation Oncology. Veterinary Clinics of North America - Small Animal Practice. W.B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia, PA. July 1997.
LaRue, SM; Gillette, EL. Radiation therapy. In Withrow, SJ; Macewen, EG (eds.) Small Animal Clinical Oncology. W.B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia, PA. 2001
Kansas State University Press Release: Pet Health News. CT, MRI and radiation therapy. June 2002.
Stachewicz, S. Manager, Radiation Oncology, Marshfield Clinic, Lakeland Center, Minocqua, WI. Personal communication. July 2002.
University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine. Radiation therapy. http://vmthpub.vetmed.wisc.edu/hosp_services/rt/default.htm.

article by http://www.peteducation.com/

Mammary Cancer

2008-03-20T13:24:00.000-07:00

Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

Mammary cancer occurs much less frequently in cats than dogs, but when it does occur, it is often malignant and difficult to treat. Mammary cancer is likely to strike 1 in 4,000 cats. While this is about half the rate as in dogs, when cats develop mammary cancer it is often fatal. There is a strong correlation between early spaying and a reduced incidence of the disease. If mammary cancer is caught early, the treatment is more often successful. This article will help familiarize the cat owner with appearance and treatment of this deadly cancer.
Which cats are at risk for developing mammary cancer?
Any adult female cat can develop mammary cancer, but the average age is usually 10-14 years of age. Siamese cats appear to have a genetic predisposition for developing mammary cancer and are twice as likely to develop it as other breeds. Unspayed females are at a much greater risk of developing mammary cancer. Female cats that were spayed after having one to several heat cycles, with or without having kittens, are also at a greater risk than a cat that was spayed before her first heat cycle.
What are the types of mammary cancer in cats?
Studies reveal that 85% of mammary tumors in cats are malignant adenocarcinomas. The tumors that make up the other 15% include duct papillomas, sarcomas, and adenomas. Adenocarcinomas are very aggressive tumors and often metastasize to the surrounding lymph nodes and lungs.
What are the symptoms of mammary tumors in cats?
Mammary tumors in cats often appear as firm nodules that are moveable or firmly attached to the skin and/or underlying muscle. About one fourth of the tumors are ulcerated. The tumors are more common on the first front sets of mammary glands. In half of the cases, tumors are present in more than one gland. Swelling, pain, infection, and fever may also be present.
What is the treatment?
Treatment usually consists of surgical removal of the tumor and the surrounding mammary gland. Some surgeons recommend complete removal of the entire mammary gland chain. These tumors are extremely aggressive and because of the high incidence of metastasis with adenocarcinomas, an aggressive treatment approach is necessary. Proper identification of the removed tumor is always recommended to help determine if further treatments are necessary. Chemotherapy is often used in combination with surgical removal to increase survivability rates. Mitoxantrone, cytoxan, and adriamycin are often used as chemotherapy agents in treating this tumor type. Because of the technical expertise needed to properly administer the newest and most effective chemotherapy drugs, a consultation with a boarded veterinary oncologist is recommended.
What is the prognosis for cats with mammary cancer?
While the initial treatment for cats with mammary cancer may be successful, the long-term outcome is usually guarded. Up to 65% of surgically removed tumors will reoccur within a year. Unfortunately, most cats survive less than a year after initial diagnosis. However, cats who receive aggressive treatment on small tumors that are caught early may live 2 to 3 years.
How is mammary cancer prevented?
While mammary cancer in cats is not completely preventable, there are several precautions owners can take to decrease the incidence of this disease. The first is to make sure their cats are spayed before they come into their first heat. There is a strong correlation between early spaying and a reduction in the incidence of mammary tumors in cats.
The second precaution is to avoid the use of progesterone-like drugs such as Ovaban and Depo-Provera, which can increase the incidence of mammary cancer in cats. These drugs are still occasionally used to treat miliary dermatitis and some behavior disorders in cats. Owners of female cats need to weigh the risk versus the potential benefits of using these drugs in their cats.
Finally, owners should be sure their cats get regular, thorough veterinary checkups. Owners can perform their own mini checkups by feeling for any lumps or bumps, particularly in the mammary area. Early detection and treatment is very important in the successful treatment and outcome of mammary cancer in cats.
References and Further Reading
Bonagura, J. Current Veterinary Therapy 12. Published by W.B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia, PA; 1995.
Ettinger, S. Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine. Published by W.B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia, PA; 1989.
Villalobos, A. Feline Breast Cancer. Veterinary Practice News. July 2000.

article by http://www.peteducation.com/

Feline Lymphoma

2008-03-20T13:23:00.000-07:00

Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

Cats have a higher incidence of lymphoma than dogs or people. Feline lymphoma is much more common in cats who are infected with feline leukemia virus (FeLV). Feline lymphoma is usually treated with chemotherapy which, depending on the location and form, can be very successful with high remission rates and a significantly increased life span.
Which cats are at risk for developing feline lymphoma?
There is no breed or sex predilection for cats that develop feline lymphoma. In the past, the average age of cats diagnosed with lymphoma was about 5 years. More recently, the average age has steadily risen to 9 - 10 years. The reason for the increase in age is that more cats are being tested and vaccinated for feline leukemia and have limited exposure to potentially infected cats. As a result, the incidence of feline leukemia (and thus lymphoma) in young cats has decreased. Cats who are not infected with FeLV generally develop lymphoma when they are much older. Thus the average age of affected cats is increasing.
As mentioned, lymphoma has traditionally been correlated with infection with FeLV. In the past, some studies found that up to 70% of all cats that developed feline lymphoma tested positive for FeLV. However some of the most recent studies show that number to be dropping and FeLV positive cats may now account for only 20% of the new cases. Cats infected with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are also at greater risk of developing feline lymphoma.
Are there different forms of feline lymphoma?
Feline lymphoma has several different forms. In all forms, the tumors consist of abnormal proliferations of lymphoid tissue. Because lymphocytes and lymph tissue are found throughout the body, lymphoma can appear almost anywhere and affect a wide number of organs. Lymphoma more commonly appears, though, in three parts of the body. The location is often associated with the cause of the lymphoma and influences the symptoms, treatment, and prognosis.
The multicentric form generally involves multiple lymph nodes and possibly multiple organs. This form is more closely associated with feline leukemia and the prognosis for this form is not as good, especially if the cat is feline leukemia positive.
The mediastinal form is also associated with feline leukemia. This form is found in the chest cavity and will affect the thymus and associated lymph nodes.
The alimentary form affects the digestive tract and surrounding lymph nodes. This form is least likely to be associated with feline leukemia.
In all forms, the treatment outcome is more guarded if the cat is positive for feline leukemia.
What are the symptoms of lymphoma in cats?
Cats that develop lymphoma are much more likely to develop more severe symptoms than dogs. Whereas dogs often appear healthy except for swollen lymph nodes, cats will often be physically ill. The symptoms correspond closely to the location of the lymphoma. Cats with the alimentary form of lymphoma often present with weight loss, rough hair coat, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. Cats with the mediastinal form often have respiratory distress and fluid in the lung cavity. If lymphoma develops in the kidney, the cat may have increased water consumption and increased urination. If the lymphoma is located in the nose, the cat may have discharge from the nose and facial swelling. Cats who are also infected with FeLV often present with pale mucous membranes due to anemia.
How is feline lymphoma diagnosed?
Diagnosis of lymphoma in cats is based on a series of observations and tests. A physical exam may revealing swellings in the lymph nodes or GI tract. X-rays, ultrasounds, or physical examinations may show tumors or swellings in other internal organs.Testing for FeLV and FIV may reveal that a cat is positive for one of these diseases, which increases the likelihood that she could develop feline lymphoma. A chemistry panel and complete blood count (CBC) may reveal particular organ involvement or an anemia, particularly in the multicentric form or in the FeLV positive cat. Fine needle aspirate or biopsies are often diagnostic for feline lymphoma. When a trained pathologist examines a fine needle aspirate or a biopsy, he or she is looking for a uniform population of immature lymphoid cells, which confirms feline lymphoma.
How is feline lymphoma treated?
Treatment for feline lymphoma usually consists of chemotherapy. In a few isolated cases where the tumor is localized and easily accessible, surgery or radiation therapy may be used. The chemotherapy protocol for cats is similar to that in dogs with a few minor changes in drug combinations. A combination of chemotherapy drugs including doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone administered over many weeks is the most common course of treatment. During the course of treatment white and red blood cell numbers are closely monitored. Individual treatment programs differ from veterinarian to veterinarian. Because of the rapidly changing and improving field of chemotherapy drugs, I always recommend that the owners of cats with lymphoma seek out the advice and guidance of a trained veterinary oncologist.
What is the prognosis for a cat with lymphoma?
The remission and survival rates of cats with lymphoma vary depending on the cat's FeLV status, the location of the tumor(s) and how quickly the tumor is diagnosed and treated. In general, about 70% of cats will respond to the chemotherapy treatment. On average, these cats will live an additional 4 to 6 months. However, about 30% - 40% of the cats that respond will go into a more complete remission that can last for 2 years or longer. This potential response is encouraging and is the reason that treatment for lymphoma in cats is so highly recommended. Cats that are not treated have an average survival time of only 4 to 6 weeks once the diagnosis has been made. Cats that are infected with FeLV or FIV have a lower rate of response to therapy as well as a shorter average survival time when treated.
Conclusion
Feline lymphoma is a fairly common cancer of cats. In the past it was closely linked to infection with FeLV but, with a decrease in the incidence of feline leukemia, more cats with lymphoma are FeLV negative. Feline lymphoma can strike a variety of different organs but always involves a proliferation of lymphoid cells. About 70% of infected cats respond favorably to chemotherapy treatment and a fair number can see an increased life span of two years or more. Because of the close link to infection with FeLV and FIV, one of the best things owners can do to reduce the risk of their cats developing lymphoma is to protect them against infection with FeLV and FIV. Eliminating exposure to other cats is the best preventative. If your cat is exposed to other cats (e.g.; goes outside, to cat shows, etc.) consider FeLV vaccination.
References and Further Reading
Bonagura, J; Kirk, R. Current Veterinary Therapy 12. Published by W.B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia, PA; 1995.
Ettinger, S; Feldman, E. Veterinary Internal Medicine 5th Edition. Published by W.B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia, PA; 2000.

article by http://www.peteducation.com/

Commandments of Cancer Care

2008-03-20T13:22:00.000-07:00

Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

After working with hundreds of pets with cancer, and their owners, Dr. Kathy Mitchener, a veterinary oncologist, has identified three commandments of Cancer Care that are essential in maintaining the quality of life and human-animal bond. Dr. Mitchener has found these commandments will help build an atmosphere of hope for both the pet and pet owner.
Commandment One
Do Not Let Them Hurt: Comprehensive pain management is critical to the quality and longevity of life for cancer patients. Research has shown that once an animal is in pain, there is magnification of the pain response. The goal then is to prevent pain, not try to alleviate it once it occurs. Local anesthesia may be helpful in those animals that have localized pain. Pain-relieving medications can be used, including fentanyl patches, which are applied to the skin and slowly release the active ingredient. Oral pain relievers can be of benefit, especially if the pain is mild. If an animal is undergoing surgery, the pain medication should start while the animal is still anesthetized, so as the animal wakes up, the pain reliever is already working.
Proper care of the animal also helps in pain management. The animal should be handled gently. Use orthopedic beds and other devices to make the animal more comfortable and decrease the risk of painful secondary problems such as "bed sores."
Commandment Two
Do Not Let Them Vomit: Nausea and vomiting are actually uncommon problems for animals undergoing chemotherapy. If either one becomes a problem, however, it needs to be managed swiftly. Vomiting animals can quickly become dehydrated and develop electrolyte imbalances. Nauseated and vomiting animals will generally not eat, which brings us to the Third Commandment.
Commandment Three
Do Not Let Them Starve: This is perhaps the most vital of the three. If an animal will not eat, but has a functioning digestive tract, enteral dietary therapy should be used. The first step is to increase the appetite. This may be accomplished by warming the food: serving palatable, aromatic foods; and feeding in a stress-free environment. Medications that stimulate the appetite, such as diazepam (Valium) and cyproheptadine may be used.
If the animal will not eat on his own, a "stomach tube" may be used. Depending upon the animal, the tube may be inserted through the nose and then into the stomach or intestine; or the tube may be placed through an incision in the skin into the esophagus or stomach.
The diet of the animal will need to be tailored individually. The correct diet may not only limit weight loss, but also improve the response to chemotherapy, and decrease the adverse effects of radiation therapy. In general, the diet should:
Limit the amount of simple carbohydrates
Contain moderate amounts of highly digestible protein, with possible supplementation of certain amino acids including glutamine, cystine, and arginine
Include moderate to relatively high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids
In providing care for pets with cancer, the medical management of the cancer is only one part of the goal. Other needs of the pet and owner need to be met to achieve the quality of life they want and deserve.
References and Further Reading
Mitchener, K. The commandments of cancer care. Presented at the 2002 Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association Convention, Milwaukee, WI. October 12, 2002.

article by http://www.peteducation.com/

Cancer in Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

2008-03-20T13:20:00.000-07:00

Cancer in cats can affect virtually any organ or body system. Some are slow growing and some progress very rapidly. There are effective treatments for many types of cancers, and research is regularly identifying new ones. Early diagnosis has a significant effect on the success of treatment.

article by http://www.peteducation.com/

Cat Health: Organ Systems & Diseases

2008-03-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

The cat health articles in this category describe normal feline organ anatomy and function, and infectious, metabolic, autoimmune, neoplastic, and inherited diseases of cats, as well as other health problems.

How to read pet food labels

2007-07-28T12:50:00.001-07:00

Do you ever spend time in the grocery store reading packaging labels to make better choices on what to feed your family? Pet food packages contain valuable information that can help you make the same choices for your pet.

Q: What information is usually provided on pet food packaging?

A: According to the Iams Company Web site, you should look for the following information on your pet’s food: Guaranteed Analysis, Company/Customer Service Information /Satisfaction, Ingredient Panel, Manufacturing Code, Expiration, or “Best Used By” Information, Feeding Instructions, and the AAFCO Statement of Nutritional Adequacy.

Q: Which labels should I pay the most attention to?

A: Obviously, you wouldn’t serve out of date food to your dog, but unfortunately freshness dating is optional. As a general rule, the more reliable brands are more likely to carry this information. Manufacturing codes help companies track specific lots of food for quality purposes. Any complaints or questions to the manufacturer regarding a specific product you’ve purchased will require this information. Also, since age, size and activity levels determine nutritional requirements for an individual pet, review the feeding instructions to help your pet maintain healthy nutrition levels.

Q: What exactly is meant by “guaranteed analysis"?

A: Guaranteed analysis is a good starting point to compare foods. The analysis is expressed in minimum and maximum percentages of such ingredients as protein, fiber, fat, moisture, and sometimes magnesium, taurine, ash, and linoleic acid. The problem is that the analysis doesn’t provide specific amounts of each ingredient (or speak to the quality of the ingredient). For example, a product with a 20 percent minimum crude protein guarantee may actually contain much more. Likewise, a product may cap the maximum amount of magnesium at 0.1 percent, but it may actually contain much less. To actually determine the quality of the ingredient, it is necessary to contact the manufacturer directly.

source: www.thedailycitizen.com

Convenience Still a Top Dog in Pet Food Packaging

2007-07-28T12:49:00.001-07:00

Cited by more than four-fifths of pet
owners surveyed, convenience still trumps most other factors influencing
pet care product purchases, according to Pet Food Packaging and Convenience
Trends, a new report from Packaged Facts. Convenience fell second only to
price in mass-market outlets and third to product quality and knowledgeable
sales help in pet specialty channels.
Growing time constraints, the "humanization" of pets, and the aging pet
and human population have all contributed to the growing emphasis on
convenience. Marketers launched 94 new convenience products in 2006; 40
more than just four years earlier.
Above-average sales growth rates in the $44 billion pet products and
services market have attracted attention from retailers in non-traditional
venues, including wholesale clubs, home improvement stores, and dollar
stores. Packaged Facts forecasts that sales in non-traditional channels
will outpace the market as a whole, gaining an average of 8% a year through
2010, as consumers continue to think in "human" terms when purchasing pet
products, buying more than just the basics.
"There is no longer any question that consumers are willing to pay
significantly more for products capable of enhancing their relationship
with their pets while also making pet care more fun and convenient," said
Don Montuori, the publisher of Packaged Facts. "Longer lives for pets mean
deeper emotional bonds between pets and their keepers, and pet owners are
therefore more willing to invest more heavily in keeping their furry
friends healthy and happy in their golden years."
With a particular focus on convenience-oriented, "premiumized" product
types, Pet Food Packaging and Convenience Trends is a comprehensive survey
of innovative pet convenience products in the food arena. The report
examines both the products themselves and what's driving their popularity,
providing case histories illustrating key trends in product development and
marketing. The report has a particular focus on new packaging types and
technologies such as single-serve, pouch, resealable, easy-open and
easy-carry. It is available from Packaged Facts by visiting

http://www.packagedfacts.com/Pet-Food- Packaging-1480611. It is also
available at MarketResearch.com.

Pet food, human food — both getting riskier

2007-07-28T12:48:00.002-07:00

Back in early March, it was first revealed that pet food across the United States contained Chinese wheat and rice gluten laced with melamine. Many expected the Bush White House to take swift action, recalling the deadly products and tracking down the source of the contamination for prosecution. Instead, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) deferred to industry and its dubious self-policing capacity. The upshot was the death nationwide of thousands of dogs and cats, and the dumping of recalled pet food into livestock rations destined for human mouths.

By late April, federal officials were doing a second round of damage control, contacting pork and poultry producers in nine states about melamine-tainted feedstocks and culling suspected animals. Unfortunately, some livestock could not be recalled, since they were already on their way to market and people's plates. Not to worry, says the FDA, there is no scientific evidence that eating melamine is bad for humans, so no grocery recall is necessary. Consumers have now unwittingly joined their pets as subjects in a massive food safety experiment. Melamine is a plastic coal derivative used in fertilizer manufacture that has never been tested or approved for animal or human consumption.

Yet — as reported in "The New York Times" on April 30th — there is a large underground market in China selling melamine scrap for livestock feed. It's as a cheap "filler" replacement for urea, boosting nitrogen levels and creating the appearance of higher protein content.

Of course, this is hardly the first case of an illegal byproduct getting dumped into the U.S. food system with the tacit approval of the FDA. Milk protein concentrate (MPC) enters the United States as an industrial-grade ingredient to make adhesives. It has never been subject to consumer safety testing or given Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) status by the FDA. Now it's found in hundreds of adulterated cheese products, candies, chips, nutritional drinks, and other processed junk foods. For powerful corporations like Kraft, it is much more lucrative to import MPC from the Ukraine, New Zealand, or India to make Velveeta, Mac n' Cheese or Singles — and hope pliant FDA officials turn a blind eye — than to pay family dairy farmers a fair price for real, wholesome, domestic milk.

Responsibility for this latest food scandal lies squarely on the race to the bottom that comes with runaway globalization, as well as the corrupting influence of corporate agribusiness on government oversight. The United States has been a food deficit nation for years now, and as trade barriers came down and imports skyrocketed, corporations raked in unprecedented profits, leaving consumers in fear of the old Latin adage: Caveat emptor — buyer beware. The FDA, with barely 1,700 inspectors, checks only about 2 percent of all U.S. food imports, and China is now ranked number three (after Canada and Mexico) when it comes to provisioning an increasingly hungry — and vulnerable — U.S. population.

In the wake of last year's E. coli spinach contamination and this year's melamine pet food scandal, citizens should be demanding greater transparency and public accountability from such agencies as the FDA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as a precondition for further taxpayer funding. Country of Origin Labeling (COOL), which was mandated in the last farm bill but has only been applied to seafood, should be fully implemented for ALL imported food immediately. People may not eat T-shirts, yet one can read right on the tag where it came from. Without COOL, consumers and farmers don't even have the choice to avoid products from those countries that have proven to be dangerous "free trade" partners. Something as essential as food deserves at least as much truth in labeling as clothing, and certainly more serious government regulation — not less.

source: www.cjonline.com

China Pledges to Improve Food Safety

2007-07-28T12:48:00.001-07:00

The country blamed for producing the tainted ingredients that triggered the largest pet food recall in U.S. history has vowed to update its food safety standards.

Li Pingjun, chief of China’s National Standardization Management Commission, told reporters that his country will speed up revisions to its national and industry standards on farm produce and processed foods, according to a story on the Central People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China Web site.

Liu said China had 1,965 national food safety standards at the end of 2006. Of that number, he said, 634 were mandatory. The standards have an average age of 12 years, he said.

Liu said his country will also work to keep its standards up to date, make sure none of them are more than four-and-a-half years old by the end of 2010, and ensure that domestic food safety meets international standards, the Central People Government reported.

China has come under international fire in recent months for exporting melamine-tainted -- and mislabeled -- wheat gluten, corn gluten, and rice protein concentrate to the United States and South Africa.

Melamine is a chemical used to make plastics and fertilizers. It is not approved for use in human or pet food.

The FDA discovered melamine in those ingredients, which are used to make pet food and pet food products. Since the FDA made that discovery in March 2007, scores of companies have recalled more than 5,600 pet food products in the United States.

The tainted ingredients are blamed for the illnesses and deaths of thousands of pets nationwide and South Africa.

The FDA traced the tainted ingredients to two companies in China -- Xuzhou Anying Biologic Technology Development Co. and Binzou Futian Biology Technology Co. Those companies are now closed. China also came under fire a few weeks ago for exporting toothpaste that contained diethylene glycol (DEG), a poison commonly used in anti-freeze.

The FDA recently banned Chinese toothpastes from the United States after learning 51 residents of Panama died from using Chinese-imported cough syrup that contained DEG.

The agency, however, found toothpaste containing DEG at a Dollar Plus store in Miami. That toothpaste was sold under the brand name ShiR Fresh. The FDA also reported that nine other brands of toothpastes contained DEG, and warned the products had a "low but meaningful risk of toxicity and injury," especially when used by children or individuals with kidney or liver disease.

The FDA said the brands of Chinese-toothpaste that contain DEG include: Cooldent Fluoride; Cooldent Spearmint; Cooldent ICE; Dr. Cool, Everfresh Toothpaste; Superdent Toothpaste; Clean Rite Toothpaste; Oralmax Extreme; Oral Bright Fresh Spearmint Flavor; Bright Max Peppermint Flavor; ShiR Fresh Mint Fluoride Paste; DentaPro; DentaKleen; and DentaKleen Junior.

The agency said its inspectors identified and detained one shipment of toothpaste at the U.S. border, containing about 3 percent DEG by weight.

An investigation by ConsumerAffairs.com recently discovered 17 tubes of illegally imported toothpaste at discount stores in the Washington-DC area. The tubes were all manufactured in other countries and not intended for sale in the U.S.

One of those tubes came from China.
Safety Scares

China has also had its share of food safety scares.

The most recent scare happened earlier this month when Chinese officials discovered a company in the central Anhui Province had repackaged for sale more than two tons of rice dumplings that were two years old.

Despite that finding, China’s Ministry of Agriculture said the overall quality of the country’s agricultural products is improving, according to the Central People Government.

The ministry reported that 90 percent of vegetables, meat, and fish tested in major cities met the country’s food safety standards. It also reported that all the meat tested in 25 major cities, including Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, and Shenyang, met safety standards.

The quality of vegetables in 37 major cities also reached 94 percent in terms of pesticide residues -- the "highest rate in recent years" -- the ministry said.

The ministry, however, reported that it discovered malachite green -- a synthetic dye used to treat fungal infections on fish eggs -- in some aquiculture products. Malachite green is considered dangerous for humans, the ministry said.

Chinese officials promised to intensify its quality-control monitoring of farm products in production bases, wholesale markets, agricultural trading markets and supermarkets, the government’s Web site reported.

source: www.consumeraffairs.com

Hill’s to build new pet food plant in Emporia

2007-07-28T12:47:00.002-07:00

TOPEKA Hill’s Pet Nutrition plans to build a new pet food manufacturing plant in Emporia, the company announced Wednesday.

Hill’s plans to start construction on the new $100 million plant early next year and begin production in 2009. More than 100 people will be employed in the Emporia plant.

Hill’s will continue to operate its global headquarters, pet nutrition center and canned pet food manufacturing facility in Topeka. Hill’s reached agreement with the city of Emporia to build the 300,000-square-foot plant on an 80-acre site on South Weaver Street in Industrial Park No. 3. The agreement is contingent upon a planned rezoning of a small portion of the tract and completion of analysis of the site, said Hill’s in a news release issued this morning.

“Kansas has been home to Hill’s for more than 60 years, and we look forward to expanding our presence here to support the continuing growth of our business,” said Justin Skala, president of Hill’s North America. “This was a rigorous, yearlong process, and we greatly appreciate the assistance we received from state and local officials.”

More than a dozen sites were evaluated for accessibility, infrastructure, economic incentives, cost and the quality of the workforce. Gardner, Ottawa and Harrisonville, Mo., also competed for the plant.

Skala said the recently passed Senate Bill 240 was an important factor in the decision. The bill provides tax relief, making Kansas competitive with other states, including Missouri.

“The best way to keep our economy growing is to do what we can to support solid companies like Hill’s,” Gov. Kathleen Sebelius said in a statement. “That’s why we took steps to get key legislation passed this session, and I’m pleased Hill’s has decided to strengthen their presence in Kansas.”

source: www.dodgeglobe.com

LLR Partners invests $10 million in Pet Food Direct

2007-07-28T12:47:00.001-07:00

I'm sure there are many investors who would rather forget Pets.com. The 1990s company has become the poster child of the lunacy of the dot-com era. Apparently, the only profitable product of Pets.com was the sock puppet.

But I guess time heals wounds. Now, a private equity firm, LLR Partners, has plunked down $10 million in Pet Food Direct. Yep, that is an online pet retailer.

Actually, the company was started about ten years ago and has been tracking nicely. Besides having more than 11,000 products, it also provides useful online guides on pet health and nutrition, and offers an Auto-Ship program.

In fact, the pet industry is worth about $40 billion per year, so there's definitely room for growth.

I still think it will take time to become a big player in the e-commerce space, though. I also think it's a good bet that Pet Food Direct isn't going to be spending big bucks on Super Bowl commercials.

Tom Taulli is the author of various books, including the Complete M&A Handbook and the EDGAR-Online Guide to Decoding Financial Statements.

source: www.bloggingbuyouts.com

pet food maker looking for calendar cuties

2007-07-28T12:46:00.002-07:00

Is your cat or dog a natural in front of the camera?

If so, they may be calendar worthy.

Evanger’s Dog and Cat Food Co., 221 Wheeling Road in Wheeling, is accepting photographs of pets for its nationwide 2008 calendar to be released in October.

Chelsea Sher, Evanger’s calendar coordinator, said people can visit the company’s Web site at www.evangersdogfood.com for a complete list of the submission requirements.

Deadline to submit photographs is July 31.

In addition to having their pet’s photo published, winners will get two cases of cat or dog food or one case of food and a 16¨-pound bag of dry food.

Holly Sher, Evanger’s president, said the calendar idea began as a public relations move to promote the pet foods, but has risen in popularity.

“Initially we did a pet of the month, but we changed it to a calendar,” she said.

Sher said the photographs have often led to some interesting stories.

“We get pictures of pets in some really funny outfits like Halloween and Christmas costumes,” Sher said.

Despite the happiness associated with the calendar, Sher said there has been some tragedy.

“Sadly, one man who had his pet in the calendar passed away,” she said. “(He) had requested to be buried with the calendar, but unfortunately the calendar came out two days too late.”

While the calendars will be available for free at various pet food stores as incentives for buying the food, anyone interested in buying one can do so for $4.95 by calling Evanger’s at (847) 537-0102.

source: www.dailyherald.com

How to read pet food labels

2007-07-28T12:46:00.001-07:00

Alternative Pet Food Boom To Follow US Crisis

2007-07-28T12:45:00.000-07:00

As US consumer fears over tainted pet food continue to fester, alternative pet foods are emerging as the primary beneficiaries of the recent pet food recall crisis, according to the market researcher Packaged Facts.

Perception of traditional mass-produced foods is that it is less safe and this, says the company, virtually guarantees high double-digit growth rates for alternative pet foods over the next two years in the US. To back up its claim Packaged Facts has just released a report entitled: Product Safety and Alternative Pet Foods: North American Market Outlook.

The report traces the government, industry and consumer responses to the crisis. It reports that the alternative pet foods markets are now being positioned as both safer and healthier than their traditional pet food counterparts.

In defining the term 'alternative pet food,' the report identifies the main beneficiaries in this brand-switching trend as 'high-quality pet foods chosen as alternatives to traditional brands.' These include high-end natural and organic pet foods, fresh pet foods including raw/frozen, refrigerated, and homemade, and critically, 100% U.S. sourced, locally grown, and other smaller-batch pet foods.

David Lummis, Senior Pet Market Analyst, Packaged Facts, puts the market in turmoil:

"Billions of dollars in pet food brand sales are now up for grabs as a result of the pet food recall crisis and its ongoing effects as consumers seek out safer, higher quality foods for their pets. This is a highly emotional issue for many pet food companies, with many now actively reexamining and restructuring their operations as a result of the recall."

The report explores pet food market trends, such as:
Levels of consumer awareness of the recall and current and expected effects on purchasing behavior
More direct company oversight of ingredients sourcing and production; new labeling and organic pet food standards
New product trends
New technologies in fresh pet foods
Increased government oversight of the industry
The report can be purchased directly from Packaged Facts.

Submitted by: Steve O'Malley

source: www.ukpets.co.uk

$10 million for online pet food retailer

2007-07-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

Pet Food Direct Inc., a web-only retailer of pet supplies, has received a $10 million equity investment from private equity firm LLR Partners Inc. Pet Food Direct says it will use the capital to finance continued growth while adding products and services.

"We have chosen an excellent partner to support Pet Food Direct as we expand our aggressive growth plans," Pet Food Direct CEO Geoff Walker says. "We look forward to leveraging LLR Partners’ expertise and business network in direct marketing." The Keystone Equities Group LP, a long-time strategic and financial advisor to Pet Food Direct, served as the placement agent for the equity investment.

Pet Food Direct, which launched in 1997 and is based in Harleysville, PA, USA offers more than 11,000 products among 400 brands at PetFoodDirect.com. Although it didn’t release sales figures in announcing the LLR investment, it notes that it serves 200,000 U.S. customers.

source: www.allaboutfeed.net

Cat food to be donated to homebound, low-income owners

2007-07-28T12:43:00.000-07:00

By Alicia Barrón, Fox 11 News

Some cat food that has been donated to a local no-kill cat shelter will be given to needy pet owners instead.

The Hermitage Cat Shelter, Tucson’s only no-kill cat adoption center, plans to donate food their cats do not eat to several food pantries who will in turn give it to elderly or low-income cat owners as part of the Food for People’s Pets program.

A news release indicates the cat shelter receives community donations on an ongoing basis. Nevertheless, the cats at the shelter only eat specific brands so the shelter has no use for the remaining brands.

According to the news release, Food for People’s Pets will provide the unwanted cat (and some dog) meals free of charge for low-income pet owners.

Congressman Raul Grijalva is scheduled to help kick-off this program as the master of ceremonies at a conference on July 2 at 10 a.m.

A spokesperson for Hermitage Cat Shelter revealed there is a real need for this program because each food pantry serves hundreds of needy people.

Food pantry recipients include the Salvation Army, Tucson Area Christian Fellowship, Interfaith Community Services and the El Rio Neighborhood Center.

You can donate pet food at the following Bashas’ supermarket drop-off centers: Oracle and Golder Ranch in Oro Valley, Sunrise and Kolb, Thornydale and Cortaro, Broadway and Houghton, Camp Lowell and Swan, River and La Cholla and Dove Mountain and Marana.

source: www.fox11az.com