Cat Swallows a Ring

Dear Best Pet Insurance,

I typically take off my engagement ring while washing the dishes. Well, I guess I must be distracted by my upcoming nuptials, because the other day I took off my ring and mistakenly dropped it right into my cat’s food! Before I could recover my ring, my kitty had eaten it along with several bites of Fancy Feast.

What to do?

Jana R. in Petaluma, California

Dear Jana,

Well, it depends on how cheap your fiancé is. If the ring is relatively small, it should pass right through your cat’s intestinal tract without any issue.
Keep in mind, however, that diamonds are hard and sharp, which can cause extensive damage to your cat’s intestines. Waiting for the ring to pass through your cat’s intestinal tract may lead to even bigger health problems. I suggest calling your veterinarian to schedule an emergency x-ray appointment as soon as possible.

When the House is Dirty, are the Fleas More Flirty?

Dear Best Pet Insurance,

I need you to settle a little debate that I have with my sister. She swears that cats are more likely to get fleas if your home is dirty. I thought fleas were only spread through other animals. What’s the truth?

Paul S. in Green Bay, Wisconsin

Dear Paul,

You’re almost right about this one. Fleas arrive through several modes of transportation, including people, animals, and plants. While dirty homes are not the ideal environments for pets, they do not typically produce fleas as a direct result.

Does Human Stress Cause Animal Bedwetting?

Dear Best Pet Insurance,

My husband and I are in the middle of a divorce. As if that wasn’t enough, our four-year-old beagle has started urinating in his dog bed. I have tried to take him outside more often to pee (sometimes every thirty minutes), but he doesn’t seem to want to go outside. Thoughts?

Shannon W. in Fresno, California

Dear Shannon,

Your dog may very well be reacting to the stress and tension in your home, much the way a child would. If you feel this might be the case, consider picking up some disposable pads to line the inside of your dog’s bed until the situation at your home has stabilized. Also, consider discussing serious and stressful matters behind closed doors and out of the hearing range of your furry friend.