Friday, August 21, 2009

Home Affordability: Myth or Reality?

For many young couples, the idea of owning their own house just like their parents is an attractive idea, but it’s not very realistic. A recent poll conducted by the Associated Press and America On Line Real Estate showed that 80 percent of respondents believe that it is hard for first-time buyers to afford a home. A majority of those polled – 59 percent – also said that they believe it is harder to buy a home now than it was five years ago.

Taking a closer look at the poll reveals that young adults and those that classify themselves as minorities consider the affordability of homes a bigger problem now than five years ago, compared to those over the age of 50 and those that identify themselves as white.

Broken down by region, almost 70 percent of those living in the western United States and almost 65 percent of those living in the Northeastern US say that it’s harder to buy now than five years ago, compared to only 54 percent of those living in the South and 51 percent of those living in the Midwest.

The poll also found that almost half of those surveyed thought that the real estate market in their home area was overpriced.

A recent report by the census bureau seems to back up the findings of the AP/AOL survey. The census report found that approximately one third of all homeowners in the US that have mortgages spent at least 30 percent of their income on housing and housing related costs. It’s widely considered excessive if your housing costs make up more than one third of your income. The census took things like mortgage payments, insurance and utilities and taxes into account.

The biggest reason for this lack of faith in new home ownership can be directly attributed to the recent housing boom over the last five years. Also, a recent increase in mortgage rates has also dampened optimism. And while incomes are up, as well, most don’t even keep up with inflation.

Another recent trend that has kept optimism for first time home buyers down is the 32 percent jump in median home value from 2000 to the end of 2005. The current median price is around $167,500.
While buying your first home is never easy, things may be a bit harder now than they have ever been. But bargains so still exist, and if you’re patient, a first home can still be yours.

Gulf Markets Experience Slow Recovery

After the disaster that was Hurricane Katrina last year, many who lived in the affected areas in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi packed up and left. It is only now, over a full year after the flooding subsided that a comprehensive look at the future of gulf real estate can be made. There is a recovery going on, but it’s slow.

According to sources in the affected areas, the biggest problem facing reconstruction is labour. A catch-22 has the New Orleans construction market treading water. More hands are needed to build more homes, but the bodies attached to those hands have no place to live in New Orleans, so they don’t come.

The housing market isn’t doing much better. Predictably, the price of undamaged homes shot up during the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and are still anywhere between 10-40 percent higher than pre-storm levels throughout most of the gulf coast area.

The amount of inventory is most of the storm-ravaged area is still very small, and the areas that did manage to escape damage tended to absorb a large amount of homeless from areas that were harder hit. This influx of demand has kept supply very, very low.

Areas such as Pearl River County in Mississippi found themselves with a doubled population almost overnight as people from flooded areas flocked there. The area had been reporting just over 400 properties for sale at any given time before the storm, but the influx in population has shrunk housing availability down to 275. As for prices, they are up significantly, from around $90,000 to $150,000.

A much larger area that took in hundreds of thousands of people was Houston, Texas. Unlike many of its counterparts, Houston has taken the influx of people quite well. New home construction is way up, and the inventory is only down from 45,000 to 40,000.

Middle-of-the-road areas like Baton Rouge essentially doubled in population, much like Pearl River. Today, the population is still 50% higher than it was before Katrina hit. There is almost no inventory here, as soon as a house goes up on the market, it is inundated with offers and sells very quickly.

Hurricane Katrina was a legendary storm that changed the lives of millions of people. The real estate market will recover there, especially in a magical city like New Orleans, but it is going to take years. The surrounding areas may not be as lucky.

Getting Real Estate Advice From Uncle Sam?

As anyone who has decided to buy or sell a piece of property can tell you, the entire process can seem daunting and intimidating. Many who seek the help of a professional real estate broker spend many a sleepless night trying to decide who is taking advantage of them more: the broker or the bank? While there is no cure-all to this ages-old dilemma, there is a new pamphlet available that helps real estate newbies navigate their way through some of the red tape that comes with buying or selling real estate.

And it’s from the United States Government.

No, really.

The Federal Trade Commission has recently issued a helpful guide that helps new buyers or sellers with some frequently asked questions concerning real estate. Titled Selling Your Home? Tips for Selecting a Real Estate Professional, the guide focuses on the proper amount you should expect to pay for a real estate commission, the ins and outs of contracts as well as business models.

While the guide is a bit slim, weighing in at only four pages, it does come with some useful info. Under the section about commissions, the guide explains that while six percent is the industry standard, it is negotiable, and if your real estate agent tells you there is a local or federal law on the books that says the commission must stay at that rate, they are lying and it’s probably a good sign to find a different broker who will be honest with you.

The guide goes on to encourage prospective clients to try to negotiate for a lower commission, since the broker needs your business just as much as you need theirs.

In the next section, the guide explains the difference between full-service real estate brokers, and discount brokers and emphasizes that if you go with a discount broker, you may have to do more of the leg work yourself. The guide also says that while a full-service agent usually provides all needed services for one flat rate, the discount broker is more likely to have an “a la carte” approach, where for each additional bit of help, there is an additional cost.

The guide goes on to provide advice on negotiating contracts in your favour and not the banks, as well as info on hiring a trustworthy real estate broker.

Gated Communities – Are they for you?

There is something uniquely American about gated communities. Usually tucked away in the suburbs, they are given majestic titles, such as Yosemite Rivers or Acadia Meadows. They feature narrow, winding streets that also have cutsey names like Bubbling Brook Circle. If you can stand the naming, you have the actual houses. While many of them tend to be large 3-bedrooms or bigger, they do tend to all look the same. Most of them feature manicured lawns that look better than the local municipal golf course. But for some people, this is a snapshot of the American Dream. Should you buy a home in a gated community? Let’s take a look at some of the plusses and minuses.

A big plus for most potential homeowners is that houses in gated communities keep their value. Since maintenance rules for most gated communities are so strict and there is very little through-traffic, the values of homes in most gated communities tends to stay high. Reselling your home if you have to move away is also easier.

A minus for many is the evil homeowners association. The scope of what a homeowners association asks of its homeowners has become the stuff of legend. The ridiculous standards to which a home and lawn must be kept can drive a person crazy. Everything from the color you’re allowed to paint your home, to how you decorate it, to what you’re allowed to keep on your lawn are all up to the local homeowners association, not you. This is more than most people can stomach after paying a few hundred grand for a house. But some find the conformity comforting.

A plus if you have kids is the safety of a gated community. Of course, the community is much safer if your gate is guarded and the gate mechanism deters people from following the car in front into the community. But there is little doubt that little Johnny and Sarah will be safer riding their bikes on streets with very little traffic and excruciatingly slow speed limits found in most gated communities.

Just like the guard at the gate can work in your favour to keep riff raff out as well as drunk drivers targeting your kids, the gate guard can work against you, too. Every time you order a pizza, or if you need an emergency visit from the plumber, you have to let the gate guard know and have them buzzed in. This can be a hassle, and more times than not, you’ll probably forget and this will leave your visitor stranded.

Buying a house is a stressful enough decision in life but when you factor in the pros and cons of living in a gated community, the process can seem overwhelming. The best piece of advice of all is to talk to those that already live in a gated community and see what it’s really like before you take the plunge.

Flipping a House – Is it Right for You?

Of all the reality TV shows that have come and gone since the fad started, very few have caused people to sit up and say, “hey, I can do that, and I can make a mint!” like the house-flipping shows that seem to be everywhere on cable these days. But is what you see on TV accurate? Can the process really be that easy? Let’s take a closer look.

The first step is analysing your finances to see if you can afford to take on a second home and remodel it. You should have an idea as to how much your total budget is going to be for the project, and make sure to factor in closing costs on the project home, contractor overruns because things are bound to take longer than you thought, and then money for incidentals and accidentals, as well.

Once you’ve got an iron clad budget, the next step is to find a home that you think is flappable. Most people go into these projects with a property already in mind, but for some, searching for a saveable house that is within their budget and at the same time will be sellable can be extremely difficult. There are many people out there looking to flip houses, so finding one for yourself can be a real chore.

Once you’ve picked your property, you have to go through the buying process. Expect delays and make sure you have the property appraised by an independent appraiser. Also, be aware that closing costs can fluctuate dramatically.

So, the house is all yours. Now what? The best thing to do is to bring in an expert to help you see everything that needs to be done. From electrical to plumbing to interior design, flipping a house right is a huge job, and you have to be prepared to spend the money.

Once renovations have started, be prepared to dedicate as much time as needed to the project. The things that you can do yourself will save you money, but don’t be afraid to call in an expert for the big jobs.

Once the property looks like it should, have it reappraised, and once you’re ready to sell, don’t be afraid to embrace non-traditional methods of selling it, like the Internet or out-of-town newspapers. You need as many eyes on your flipped house so you can unload it as quickly as possible and stop making payments on it. The longer the property sits there, the less successful your house flip will be.
House-flipping has become one of the most fashionable ways to make money for hard working people. But be prepared to go into your investment with your eyes, and your wallet, wide open.

Canadian Markets Hot and Cold

For many Americans, Canada has been a refuge from instability for generations. Canada was the final destination for thousands of runaway slaves before the American Civil war, and then later during Viet Nam, for draftees that felt the war was unjust. The slow and steady migration to Canada continues to this day, although it’s mostly to get away from gun violence and George W. Bush. For those looking to buy real estate in Canada, the third quarter numbers had both good and bad news.

The good news? Canadian real estate is on a record pace in 2006.

The bad news? The third quarter numbers are down sharply from the second quarter of this year, and even down from the third quarter of last year. What does all this mean?

It basically means that Canada’s sizzling real estate market is still hotter than ever, but that it can’t keep up the incredible pace that it’s been on.

Breaking down the numbers, Canadian real estate is down 6 percent compared to the same quarter last year, and down 2.5 percent from the second quarter of this year, according to the Canadian Real Estate Association.

Overall, sales during the first nine months of this year are still up over the same nine months from last year, but things do appear to be slowing down.

The hardest hit cities during the third quarter slow down were Vancouver, home of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, red-hot Calgary, which is still booming thanks to the local oil industry, and Toronto. Sales in Edmonton, Alberta and Hamilton, Ontario are actually up for the third quarter, helping to offset the losses in other cities.

Proving that the incredible Canadian real estate market is still on fire, year-to-date sales records were set in various cities all across the country in the third quarter. Montreal, Winnipeg, Ottawa, Saskatoon, Edmonton and Calgary all reported record sales for this year.

The average price for a home in Canada has been sky rocketing in recent years, with the total now at $258,000 (US dollars) up from $234.000 just in the last calendar year.

This real estate frenzy is being led by the province of Alberta and their incredible economy. The cities of Calgary and Edmonton, which reported their highest level of new real estate listings ever in the third quarter. Montreal and Toronto reported their second highest amounts of new listings for any quarter, as well.

The Canadian real estate market is still breaking records and making money despite the third quarter downturn. The breakneck pace simply couldn’t be sustained. But if you’re looking to move north of the border, do so knowing that it might cost you a few more loonies than you thought.

Buying a Home Overseas: Practical?

For those of us that have been lucky enough to travel to Europe, Asia or Australia from North America, we have seen some of the most beautiful land on Earth. The people, the sights and especially the food make international travel one of the most exotic and special things you can do. But what about making that trip to another country permanent? If you can afford a second home and the thought of spending your summers in the Hamptons isn’t doing it for you, what about buying a little place in Italy? Or Ireland? Here are some tips on making your dream a reality.

First off, rest assured that you’re not the first person to do this. It’s estimated that about four million US citizens live abroad right now. The first thing you should do is check the local country’s property rights. There are websites run by the International Real Estate Association that can tell you if it’s even legal for non-residents of a country to own land there. You should also check with the US Government about the stability of a particular region. Remember, if you vacationed somewhere nice, that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily safe once you leave the resort.

The next step would be to seek out a real estate broker in that particular country for help. This is when a possible language barrier could be a problem. Luckily, there are websites available that will have links to international brokers who do speak English. A broker who is familiar with the local laws and customs of the region you’re looking to move to will be able to help you find out how the local laws work when it comes to real estate.

Another good tip is that you should expect to pay cash. Most countries don’t have as sophisticated a system for loans and mortgages as the US and Canada, so you are looking at either paying cash or if you are looking to move somewhere where you might be able to get a loan, a down payment of almost 50 percent wouldn’t be unusual. If that’s too rich for your blood, you might want to think twice about the whole thing.

Being able to retire in that pretty Tuscan villa overlooking the vineyards is a dream millions of Americans have, and while it may only become a reality for a select few, you CAN make it happen with proper planning, a helpful heaping of common sense and a few tips to help you on your way.

Are you House Poor?

The great American Dream has always revolved around owning a home. Sure, having the 2.3 kids, the cushy corporate job and the stylish car to drive to work everyday are part of the myth, too, but nothing quite summed up Americana quite like the white picket fence. But if recent economic numbers are any clue, this dream is becoming a nightmare for many in the US.

According to date released by the United States Census Bureau, an increasing number of homeowners are spending a larger and larger amount of their incomes on housing than in previous years. People in 49 out of 50 states reported an increase. The only state that didn’t, Alaska, spent the same amount. The report showed that people are spending around 21 percent on their housing needs, up from 19 percent in 1999.

This is a huge problem for first-time buyers who may now be priced out of housing markets all across the country. Economists point to rises in home prices in the last 7 years, as well as higher interest rates, coupled with stagnant wages over the same period.

While everyone seems to be in agreement that the housing “bubble” is either bursting, or getting ready to burst depending on where you live, housing prices are still up a remarkable 32 percent since the beginning of the decade.

Household incomes, on the other hand, haven’t done a very good job of keeping up. The same Census report showed that income has actually dropped, not risen, over the past 7 years, down 2.8 percent.

Maybe the worst news in the report was the percent of people who allot more than 30% of their income for housing. The numbers are up almost 8%. National guidelines suggest that more than 30% of household income for housing is excessive and not financially healthy.

What does this mean in the long run?

Most experts agree that until income can catch up to housing, the real estate market will remain lifeless. And since real estate is one of the biggest drivers to the overall economy, a weak real estate market means a weak economy.

Things appear to be the worst in California. Not only do they have the most expensive real estate in the nation, 48 percent of California homeowners spend more than 30% of their income on housing related costs.

Until income can begin to grow as quickly as the real estate market, this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Which could mean that the upcoming real estate slump could last much longer than anyone predicted.

A Second Home: Take it or Leave it?

For many, wanderlust is just a part of life. You buy a beautiful home somewhere, settle down, have a family, but there is always a part of you that’s itching to get away. Vacations are part of that wanderlust; the chance to get away someplace beautiful. And then you see it. The local newspaper at your vacation destination, and lo and behold, there is a real estate section right there. Dare you even look? You can’t afford it, can you? Two homes? Is dual home ownership for you?

A second home can work for you, but you have to go into the process knowing what to expect. If you’re looking to get rich quick, don’t count on it. According to recent data, the price of real estate in areas that are deemed “Vacation Markets” has risen twice as fast as real estate in other areas. So, not only is a second home in your destination of choice going to cost you a pretty penny, it’s no longer a well-kept secret anymore and the chances of you flipping it to make a quick buck are slim.

The best piece of advice a possible vacation home buyer can heed right now is to buy for love not for money. Recent sharp downturns in vacation markets like Naples, Florida, Lake Tahoe, Nevada and Cape Cod, Massachusetts, have shown that trying to turn a profit in a vacation market is close to impossible. But there is a bright side to all of this. With the housing bubble going poof all across the country, those that are looking to sell will be doing so at lower prices. Now could be a great time to buy a place that you’re planning on keeping for a long while.

But how do you know if you have your head on straight about the whole thing? Well, take some time and evaluate the pluses and minuses of buying another home. Once you’ve decided on a area, spend some time there to make sure you like it. If it’s going to be a vacation home, you’ll want the scenery to be relaxing (if that’s what you’re looking for) or exciting (if that’s what you go on vacation to experience). A final check should be the bottom-line cost. If the price of the two houses makes up more than one third of your total income, you’ve spent too much.

Buying property is a huge investment for everyone, even the rich. Take the time to properly evaluate the pros and cons before you decide to own a second home or you could find yourself on a permanent vacation.

Friday, August 14, 2009

Tummy Tucks and Breast Implants: Kinds of Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery is very popular in the United States and throughout Europe, especially for those often in the public eye, like actresses and models. You may know about some of the more traditional procedures, but cosmetic surgery, also called plastic surgery can help to achieve a variety of different looks all over a person’s body. Before you go under the knife, learn about the different kinds of cosmetic surgery and how it can help you.

First and foremost, there are the types of plastic surgery that everyone talks about. At the top of that lift is the breast implants. The technical name for this procedure is mastopexy, and is helps people—mostly women—lift and reshape their breasts. This sometimes goes hand in hand with a mammaplasty, which is enlarging the breasts by inserting saline or silicone gel pieces under the skin. Another popular form of cosmetic surgery is the rhinoplasty, which is otherwise known as the nose job. Tummy tucks, technically called abdominplasty, are common too.

There are also some less well-known cosmetic surgeries that people have every day, including ones to change a person’s sexual organs. Other less common cosmetic surgeries inclue buttock augmentation (enhancement of the buttocks), chin and cheek augmentations (enhancements around the face), rhytidectomy (face lifts), and otoplasty (reshaping of the ear). In most cases, these surgeries are done purely for cosmetic reasons—hence the name cosmetic surgery.

Liposuction, or suction-assisted lipectomy, is classified as yet another kind of plastic surgery. In this procedure, the surgeon removes fat from a person’s body. On the other hand, collagen, fat, and tissue filler injections are another kind of plastic surgery that adds fat to a small area of your body where it may be lacking. Chemical peels are probably the least drastic of the cosmetic surgeries you can receive. A chemical peel is meant to reduce acne, scars, wrinkles, freckles, and age sports by applying a layer of acid to your face and allowing the top layer of your skin to peel and form fresh new skin.

Before considering any of these cosmetic surgeries, talk to your doctor. Not all cosmetic surgeries are safe or will work for all people, and there are some real horror stories of patients who have had failed surgeries. Most of the time, surgeries work, but in the end, surgery is always a risk. Only you can decide if your looks are worth that risk.

The Nose Knows Best: Rhinoplasty

In the world of cosmetic surgery, you can fix everything from your eyelids to your breast. In fast, no part of your body is safe! Of course, most of the time, cosmetic surgery is done for cosmetic reasons only—hence the name—but it can also help to improve the quality of your life in other ways. If you are considering plastic surgery, the key is to learn are much as possible about the process so that you are fully aware of the procedure and can make the best decision possible for your health. One of the most popular kinds of cosmetic surgeries that you can try is rhinoplasty, otherwise known as the nose job.

Rhinoplasty has a long history and was first performed around 500 BC by a man names Susrutha, who is considered to be the father of plastic surgery. Many of the same procedures he used are still used today. The first rhinoplasty was done in the western world in the late 1800s. Today, it is done all over the world with great success.

The surgery starts with general or local anesthetic, depending on what the doctor and patient prefer. Once the area is numbed and the patient is asleep, the surgeon makes tiny incisions inside the nostrils. The cartilage and bone in the nose are then reshaped according to the patient’s preferences. This is done to improve both the look of the nose and the ability to breath. If preferred, a straight septoplasty can be preferred. This is when the bone and cartilage is changed just to improve breathing, but not to improve the cosmetic look of the face.

Rhinoplasty surgeries are very common in the entertainment industries. Perhaps the best known nose jobs in the world include Michael Jackson’s surgery; His sisters Janet and La Toya Jackson also got nose jobs. Jennifer Grey, the star of the movie Dirty Dancing also got a nose job that is highly infamous in the world of plastic surgery.

As with all plastic surgeries, there are a variety of things that could potentially go wrong with a nose job. They are simply not for everyone. Before you approach plastic surgeons regarding your nose, you should consider if the high cost, pain, and risk are worth the end results. In some cases, a rhinoplasty can be a great thing, but they do not work for everyone. In any case, talk to your doctor about the procedure and the risks involved so you can carefully make the best decisions regarding the look of your nose.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

When you are interested in cosmetic surgery, also called plastic surgery, you should see a number of doctors in order to choose the one that is right for you. A crucial part of the process is the consultation. During this initial contact with the person who will eventually sculpt your new face, you should ask a number of questions. It is important to learn about every aspect of your surgery so that you are well prepared. You can never ask too many questions!

First, ask your doctor to give you a timeline. You don’t have to talk about specific dates. In fact, that’s something you can work out with the secretary later. What you should talk about is how many hours the procedure will take, how many days you will need to recover, and when you will have to come into the office before and after the surgery for appointments. Most doctors like you to come in again once or twice before the surgery to plan out specifically and exactly what will be done. After the surgery, which is take a varying amount of time depending on the work to be done, you will usually need at least a week to recover. For more extensive procedures, it will be longer. Doctors usually like one check up to make sure everything is going ok, and after that it will be up to the specific doctor. It is important to ask for this kind of timeline so that you know when you can return to work and when you have to schedule visits to the office.

You should also ask about pain. Some it this will be difficult for every person, but certain procedures are more painful than others. If you are worried about pain, ask your doctor what can be done about is and if you’ll need prescriptions to handle the pain. If you will, you should check with your insurance company to see if they are covered.

Another good question to ask is how you will look at the end. Most doctors have computers that can show you an image of the progress that will be made. You’ll take a photograph of your body and the area in question, and a doctor will enhance it using the computer. You should be able to clearly see the changes you want.

Make sure that all of your questions are addressed during the initial consultation. Before you leave, ask the secretary for specifics on when you could have the procedure done and how much it will cost. Write down the answers to all of your questions so that you can compared doctors easily when you are at home and choose the best one for your cosmetic surgery.

Lifting Your Spirits—and Your Face!

Facelifts are one of the most common cosmetic surgeries available to the public, with thousands done every year in the United States alone. As we age, the skin on our faces loosens and wrinkles. That is simple a fact of life. For those who are aging less gracefully than others, a face lift can be done. Talk to a cosmetic surgeon today to learn how a face lift can work for you. Most frequently, face lifts are done in conjunction with other types of cosmetic surgeries.

Facelifts cannot stop you from aging. Once you have a facelift, your skin will still continue to age, so you may not see the results you hope for. This is not your doctor’s fault—this is life. Medicine can only do so much to improve our looks. At your initial consultation, your doctor will go over how the face lift will work for you and talk to you about the results you will see. In most cases, you will be able to see a digitally enhanced version of your face as it will appear after surgery. Make sure that your doctor answers all of your questions.

The actual face lift begins with a few small incisions—at the temple near the hairline, below the earlobe, and behind the ear in the hair. The muscles and sagging tissues in your face will be tightened and excess skin will be removed. The result is a lifted face, hence the name. Your doctor will then stitch the incisions. In some cases, small inquisitions will be made used the chin as well to lift the neck.

Facelifts usually take about two to three hours to complete and can be done in a hospital or in your doctor’s surgical office suite. An anesthesiologist will provide either light sedation or deep sedation, depending on your preference, and in most cases, you can return home that day night. The amount of pain you will experience depends on the amount of cosmetic surgery being done, and this also affects the amounts of swelling you will see and recovery time.

Remember that a face lift is still a surgery, even though they are usually done casually in the United States. There are still very real risks involved, and you will need at least two weeks to fully recover. Face lifts are not for everyone, including people who have health risks. The best candidates are those with good skin elasticity, non smokers, and those who have taken the time to think through the process and expect realistic results.

Kinds of Chemical Peels

Chemical peels fall under the classification of cosmetic surgery because they use dangerous chemical solutions to cause the skin to blister and peel. Why would anyone want that kind of a surgery? In the end, the new skin grows back to be less wrinkled or blemished, so it is a procedure that many aging women prefer. Although some chemical peels can be purchased and done by almost anyone, it is preferable to get your chemical peel done by a professional plastic surgeon or dermatologist to make sure everything stays safe and your skin ends up looking the best it possibly can. There are a few different types of chemical peels.

One of the most popular kinds of chemical peels is know as an AHA Peel, or an alpha hydroxyl acid peel. This is the mildest form of the chemical peels and works by using carboxylic acids, like the glycolic acids found in sugar cane or lactic acid, found in sour milk. Many people use this kind of acid mixed with facial wash or creams in lesser-concentrated forms as part of a daily skin care plan. When you use this acid in its concentrated form, is can reduce fine lines and uneven coloring, smooth rough and dry skin, improve your skin’s texture, and help battle acne. You may need multiple treatments to get the results you desire, and after each treatment, you’ll experience stinging, redness, and mild irritation for a few days.

Another popular kind of chemical peel is the tricholroacetic acid peel, in which the chemical is much stronger than in an AHA peel. Usually, concentrations of 20% to 50% are used, with concentrations above 35% being most rare because there is the risk of scarring. This kind of a chemical peel is used for smoothing fine lines, removing blemishes, and correcting skin discoloration, especially for this with darker skin pigmentation. As with the AHA peel, the treatment takes several days to heal, and you must use special care with skin products to maintain the results.

The strongest type of chemical peel is the phenol/croton oil chemical peel. The improvements on a patient’s skin when using this type of a chemical peel are drastic and long lasting in most cases, and a single treatment is all you need to get the effects you want usually. This type of chemical peel smoothes out deep wrinkles, removes precancerous growths and blemishes, and corrects any kind of blotches on the skin related to sun exposure or aging. It also permanent removes freckles in some cases and has been known to permanently lighten the skin. Because this procedure is so drastic, you’ll need protection from the sun for the rest of your will have to allow for several months for it to heal.

There are other kinds of chemical peels available as well. Talk to your dermatologist or a cosmetic surgeon if you are interested in learning more about how these chemical peels can work for you and your skin.

Is Plastic Surgery Right for You?

Cosmetic surgery, which is sometimes known as plastic surgery is a craze that has been sweeping the nation—and the world—for many years. There are both advantages and disadvantages to cosmetic surgery, which you must consider carefully before deciding if it is right for you. Cosmetic surgery can be very successful, but it is not for everyone. Is cosmetic surgery right for you? That is a question that only you, along with a medical professional, can answer.

First, consider the reasons why you are getting cosmetic surgery. In most cases, the main reason simple is to look better, hence the name cosmetic surgery. Many people think that the term plastic surgery implies that you are fake and somehow made of plastic. However, the term really comes from the Greek word meaning to reshape, and it have no connection to the word plastic that means the material. That said, some people believe that plastic surgery gives you an unnatural appearance. This can be true or false, depending on the surgery being done. Plastic surgery can also help to clear up other health problems as well, although this is not as common.

If you are considering plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons, you should first consider how severe your specific problems are. Do you feel embarrassed to interact with other people? Is your appearance causing you to avoid social situations? In these cases, plastic surgery should be able to help you. However, if you are simply worried about small things that have little effect on your daily life, like a bump on your nose, you may be able to save money and not put your health at risk by learning to accept the bump and live with it. On the other hand, if you were in a major accident and your face was disfigured, you might not want to leave your house unless you go through with plastic surgery. Think about the process carefully before deciding. This is different for every person, but consider your options wisely.

Money is another thing you should consider. Most types of plastic surgery are not covered by insurance, which means that you’ll have to pay for them out of pocket. In some cases, some of the costs may be covered, but you will usually have to pay thousands of dollars out of pocket for plastic surgery. If this isn’t possible for you, plastic surgery may not be the answer.

Finally, it is important to talk to your doctor about the health risks involved. For example, with breast implants, you run the risk of infection or your body rejecting the foreign object and attacking it. This can happen with any kind of plastic surgery where you use inorganic material to improve the shape of your body. If you are truly interested in plastic surgery, it is important to learn about all of the risks before you go through with the procedure.

Is Abdominoplasty the Answer?

Cosmetic surgery is very popular in the United States to help a person improve his or her looks. One type of procedure you can get is the abdominoplasty. This cosmetic surgery is also known as a tummy tuck and works by removing excess fat and skin around the abdomen in order to tighten the muscles in this area. Women are most commonly the patients for this kind of surgery, and it is usually recommended only when diet and exercise do not work. It can also be used in some cases to remove excess skin, which is common around the abdomen in the case of a huge weight loss.

There are a number of different ways to go about this procedure. First, with a complete abdominoplasty, the doctor makes an incision completely across the lower abdomen, cuts around the navel, and detaches the skin for the abdominal wall. Your muscles are then tightened and excess skin is removed. A new hole is cute for the navel, and your skin is basically stitched back in place to heal. This can turn into an extended abdominoplasty, which is when the same procedure is done and then repeated on the thighs or back.

You can also combine abdominoplasty with liposuction, which removes fatty deposits in the body. This is very common. If you’ve already lost the weight, another choice is a partial abdominoplasty, which removes the excess apron of skin you have from when you were larger.

Before deciding to go with this procedure, realize that recover takes anywhere from two to four weeks, and much of that time you should not go in to work. You should also not do any kind of exercising or heavily lifting until you are healed, and smoking is not advised, because it creates a high risk for complications. Also, you should consider the high cost of tummy tucks. In the United States, partial procedures start at about $4,000, with full procedures costing even more. This does not take into account the prescriptions and follow up care you may need. The cost rises as you near larger cities like Los Angeles and New York, and if you want a surgeon at the head of this field, you can pay as much as $20,000 for this kind of a procedure. It’s not recommended for everyone, but you may be able to get some real results. If you are interested in an abdominoplasty, talk to a health care provider today.

Cosmetic Surgery for a Cleft Lip and Palate

One of the most saddening congenital deformities affecting children all over the world is the clef lip and palate. Thanks to modern technology, we can now fix these problems with cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, but in third world countries, many children still go without this kind of help. A cleft is a separation in the body’s natural structure, and is caused on the face during gestation. A cleft lip and palate occur in about one in 600 to 800 births and are also called hare lip.

There are three different types of cleft lip. The unilateral incomplete cleft lip looks like a dent in the upper lip that does not reach the nose. It is also sometimes called a partial or incomplete cleft. If the dent reaches one nostril the cleft lip is known as a unilateral complete cleft. If it reaches to both nostrils, it is known as a bilateral complete cleft lip. If this does not extend into the mouth, cosmetic surgery is what is needed to fix the condition.

A cleft palate is a bit more of a serious condition. In this case, the two plates that form the skill in the hard palate, or roof of the mouth, do not completely join. Again, there are three kinds of cleft palates. The incomplete cleft palate is only a problem within the mouth and does not reach the nose. The complete lip and palate clefs reach the nostrils and are either unilateral (reaching one nostril) or bilateral (both nostrils). If this occurs, a combination of surgeries is needed to fix the problem. Usually, surgery can be done immediately after birth, but most doctors prefer to wait until the baby is ten weeks old so that he or she has time to recover from the birthing process itself.

Cleft lips and palates form due to both genetic and environmental factors. They are most prevalent in Asian, Latino, and Native American races, but can affect any child. Cosmetic surgery can really help these babies. Not only will it form a more normal-looking face, but it will also help with the various speech problems a child will have if trying to learn to speak with a cleft lip and palate.

If your baby has a clef lip or palate, you should talk to your doctor about the options available to you. In most cases, this surgery can be covered by your medical insurance, and it is definitely a good idea to help your child. Many successful people were born with cleft lips and palates, so surgery can really help.

Choosing your Cosmetic Surgeon

You wouldn’t let just anyone repair a burst appendix, do a heart transplant, or operate on your brain; don’t let just anyone be your cosmetic surgeon either. Although a nose job or tummy tuck may be a bit less complicated than brain surgery, it is still surgery and there still is the very real possibility that you could die on the operating table. You can be rest assured that this is very rare, but it is much more likely if you don’t work with a complete professional. More common are botched surgeries where you come out looking worse than when you went it. The bottom line is that you are paying a lot of money and putting your health in the hands of a stranger. It is important to take some time to pick the right person for the job.

Before you even begin to think about scheduling consultations, you should visit surgeons’ websites and talk to other patients. If you know friends who have had surgery by a certain doctor, ask what was good and what was bad about the process with that particular doctor. A website can give you a doctor’s bio as well as before and after shots. You should narrow down your list to three or four people who are highly qualified, with a top choices, a second pick, and one or two to be left on your list in case your first two choices do not work out.
Next, you should ask for a consultation. Almost all doctors charge a consultation fee of around $100, but most only ask for this single fee even if you come back with more questions later. If you use that doctor, some apply the consultation fee to the total fee of the procedure. Every doctor is different.

Even if you love the first doctor you visit, you should ask for a second opinion, especially if you’ve never had plastic surgery before. Plastic surgeons are like artists, and each will try to give you the look you want. You may think you love the first doctor…until you see someone else’s ideas! If your top two choices are highly qualified, you can avoid more consultation fees by choosing between them. If neither suits your needs, you can see more doctors. Remember, don’t settle for a doctor unless he or she is exactly what you want. You have to live with how you look after the surgery, so choose the perfect doctor to avoid anything going wrong with the process.

All Eyes on You: Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is commonly known as eyelid surgery and is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries in the United States. This procedures help to remove excess fat, tissue, and skin from around the upper and lower eyelids to correct the drooping and puffiness that can make you look older. Contrary to popular belief, it will not remove wrinkles like crow’s feet, lift your brows, or correct dark circles. Eyelid surgery also will not make you look like another heritage, so it can be used to correct Asian eyes but will not remove evidence that a person is Asian. Usually, eyelid surgery is done in conjunction with other surgeries, like face lifts and brow lifts.

Like all other forms of cosmetic surgery, there are risks involved with eyelid surgery. The most common side effects include blurred vision for a few days and temporary swelling. However, the real dangers come with the risk of complications during the surgery with the anesthesia or after the surgery with infection. While major problems are rare, you should still talk to your cosmetic surgeon to make sure that you understand these risks before you choose to have this surgery preformed.

Before your surgery, you will have at least one or two consultations with the doctor. He or she will discuss with you how the surgery will work and what results you can expect. In most cases, you will be able to see a digitally enhanced picture of yourself after the surgery so that you and your doctor can be on the same page as to what you want. Before the surgery, you will also be given direction about what you can eat and drink the day of your surgery, and you should also be prepared with a driver to take you home after the surgery and to help you for a few days while your vision may still be blurry.

The first step of your surgery is to receive anesthesia, and you and your doctor can choose whether to have local or general. The surgery itself will most likely be done in the doctor’s surgical suite, but you can also have it done at a hospital if you’d like. It will take one to four hours, depending on your specific needs. The cosmetic surgeon will start by making tiny cuts around your eyes to separate the skin for the fat underneath. Excess substance will be removed and the incisions will then be carefully closed. Your eyelids may feel tight and sore afterwards, but in a few days, you should feel a lot better and the results are fantastic.

Recognizing and Treating Over-grooming

There are a number of medical conditions in cats that may seem like they don’t really harm the cat, but in actuality, they can really take a toll on a cat’s health. One such disorder is over-grooming, which is a stress-related condition that can be compared to obsessive-compulsive disorders in humans. Over-grooming can be very dangerous, so if you see symptoms of this disorder in your cat, talk to your vet right away to find out what you can do to help.

Over-grooming usually starts when there has been a big change in your cat’s life, such as a new baby or pet in the house or a move. Cats naturally groom themselves often, and this activity is like a massage that cats love to do. Therefore, if your cat is stressed out about a change in his or her life, your cat may groom as an attempt to remain calm. Over-grooming takes place with the cat excessively licks or pulls out fur, resulting in bald spots. Commonly, the areas affected by over-grooming at the inner thighs and forelegs.

If you see bald spots on your cat, your first step is to call your vet and schedule an appointment. There are, in fact, over things that cause balding in a cat, and these other medical conditions can become quickly fatal if left untreated. Thyroid problems, allergies, fleas, mites, ringworm, and bacterial pyoderma can all cause bald patches in the fur, which your vet can examine to diagnose your pet.

If your cat is suffering from over-grooming, there are a number of things you can do to her him or her heal. First, identify what has triggered this reaction in your pet and eliminate this if possible. However, this may not help, as the cat’s behavior may be a habit by now. Try to take your cat’s mind off of grooming by regular play and stimuli. Consider a cat video or a fish tank, which can entertain your cat when you have to leave for more than an hour, and when possible, bring your cat wherever you are going.

You vet can also recommend certain medications to help your cat stop over-grooming. Anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medications could do the trick, and your vet can help you learn positive reactions for your cat when you she that he or she is over-grooming. Together, you, your vet, and your cat can put an end to your cat’s health problems.

The Advantages of Neutering your Male Cat

Most male animals that are not used for breeding purposed are castrated, neutered, so that they can no longer impregnate a female. For cats especially, this is crucial, since there are hundreds of kittens every year that go without homes. There are many advantages to neutering your male cat, and the process is quite safe, so you should consider it if your furry feline friend is male and not yet neutered.

Male cats that have not yet been neutered are called tomcats. Simply put, it can be difficult to live with a tomcat, no matter how well trained he may be. When your cat is not neutered, he will want to get outside as frequently as possible to mate with female cats in heat. This can be disastrous if you live in a busy street with lots of traffic or if your cat is not used to being outdoors. Tomcats also roam a lot, meaning that they may travel far distances in search of female cats, and it is possible for your cat to roam too far and not know his way home. It is also possible for him simply to resist coming home at all, since he will be shut indoors. To protect your male cat, neutering it the best choice.

Tomcats also fight and are generally more aggressive than neutered cats. Because they want sexual dominance in a particular area, they may seek fights with other male cats to drive them away. Cats will fight to the death if they feel threatened, and fights cause not only injuries, but also the spread of diseases like the FeLV virus, which can be fatal. Neutering your cat will not stop an aggressive cat from being less aggressive toward humans, but it will prevent your cat from actively seeking fights with other male cats in the neighborhood.

Vasectomies are not done with male cats. Rather, the simple neutering procedure will remove the male reproductive organs, which are easily accessible in most tomcats. In some cases, more extensive surgery has to be done, because they have not developed and descended correctly. The removal of these organs is what causes the changing in male hormones through a cat’s body, changing the cat’s behavior. Sterilization is not enough, because the cat won’t notice the difference and will still seek to fight and mate. Your vet can tell you more about this procedure, but all in all, it is the best choice for any cat, since there are already so many homeless cats in the world.

Moving and Cat Concerns

Moving can be a difficult situation with which to deal for all member of your family, including your cats. If you will be moving in the near future there are a number of things that you should consider in order to make sure that your cat’s health is not compromised. Don’t forget to think about your furry friends when moving!

First, when you are packing for the move, it might be a good idea to confine your cat to a single room or to have a friend of family member watch your cat for the day. Movers are often caring very heavy items, like sofas and refrigerators, so they shouldn’t have to watch where they step. Your curious kitty could also climb into the moving van or boxes and get packed away! If your cat is fully an indoor cat, the open doors while you are loading your belongings are also a worry, since it is easy for a pet to bolt out the door.

About a month before you move, have your cat wear his or her collar full-time, even if you do not normally put the collar on your cat. All of his or her information should be updated and the tags should reflect your new address. When cats are confused, they often run, and a lost cat in a new neighborhood may not be able to find his or her way home very easily. If your cat needs certain medication, this can be very dangerous. By having his or her wear a collar at all times, at least until he or she gets used to the new location, you can make sure that your cat is returned home if lost.

During the move itself, don’t forget to make special accommodations for your cat. A cat carrier that is well ventilated is a necessity, and if the trip will be more than a few hours long, you’ll also need to carry food, water, and litter box supplied for your cat. Cats that are not used to riding in cars may get sick, so talk to your vet about ways to prevent this. You can also cover the carrier with blankets to provide a bit of extra security for a stressed-out kitty when you’re in heavy, loud traffic or construction areas.

Remember, that you’ll need to find a new vet in your new neighborhood. This should be a top priority for you if you’re moving, and you should talk to your current vet about having your cat’s medical records transferred to a new location. If your cat is acting strangely at all, do not hesitate to call your vet to more tips about moving with your cat.

Hot Kitty! Cat Safety in Warm Weather

If you live in a climate that has sticky, hot, summer days, you may find yourself longing for cooler days. Your cat will definitely agree! In warm weather, it is necessary for you to care for your cat’s healthy so that he or she does not become overheated. Remember, a pet is like a newborn baby—your cat cannot tell you that he or she is hot or uncomfortable. You have to notice warning signs and provide a good living environment so that your cat does not get too hot.

When you take your pet places during the summer, never ever let your cat inside of a parked car, even for a short time. Cars quickly become ovens in the summertime, even when you park in the shade, or even if you have the windows cracked. Your pet will not be able to alert people in order to get out of your car safely. In as little as ten to fifteen minutes, your pet could die from the heat in a parked car, and parking in the shade does little good to prevent this, since the sun continuously moves and the heat of the air alone will be bad for your pet. If your pet will be going with you, make sure that cats are allowed wherever you will be.

When the heat index is high, keep your cats inside. Cats that are not outdoors most of the time won’t know where the cooler places to hide are, or they may find these cooler places and not return home. Hot asphalt can also wreak havoc on a cat’s health, as it can burn his or her sensitive paw pads. If your cat does not use a litter box and instead goes outside, make sure that he or she is let back inside after only a few minutes on the hottest days of the summer. Basically, if it is recommended that seniors and children stay inside, it is good for pets to stay indoors as well.

Keep your cat well groomed during the summer as well. Brushing you cat often will help get rid of the excess hair that has been shed and is weighing down the animal. If your cat has very long hair or is overweight, provide him or her with an air-conditioned room if possible. Preventing overheating is key.

As always, make sure your cat has access to clean, fresh water. This can be tap water, but should be cool and changed multiple times a day when it is hot outside. Your furry feline is very important in your life, so make sure that he or she gets proper care when the summer days make your sweat.

Household Poisons to your Cat

If you seek to provide the best living environment possible for your furry feline friend, it is important to know about the different household items that could poison your cat. Remember, your cat cannot resist tasty-smelling or unusual substances, nor can he or she tell you what was ingested to make him or her feel badly. Therefore, know which items you own could hurt your pet and keep these items securely in cabinets and other places your cat cannot access. If possible, keep these items out of your home altogether.

First, many homes have bleach products. You’ll find bleach and Clorox mainly in the laundry room or in other cleaning supplies; however, you can also find bleach products in swimming pool supplies. In generally, household bleaches are fairly mild. Although they will make your cat feel ill, most animals are smart enough to not drink enough to kill. Signs that your cat may have drunk a bleach product include excess drooling, vomiting, and abdominal pain. If your cat seems to be in pain, smell his or her fur if possible to detect the scent of the bleach. In general, call you vet and have your cat drink large quantities of milk or water if you possibly can. Monitor your cat for bloody vomit and difficulty breathing, and wash the paws and mouth area thoroughly.

Mothballs and other products containing naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene can also make your cat sick. Ingesting this substance can cause live damage and seizures. Symptoms include vomiting, seizures, blue or brown colored gums, increased heart rate, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. If you cat has eaten mothballs or items like toilet bowl cleaner or bathroom deodorizer, call your vet immediately.

Citrus oils, which are found in shampoo, insect repellent, fragrances, and insecticide are very harmful to cats as well. Although these items can harm all pets, cats are more sensitive than dogs and if you treat a cat with dog products, the result could kill your pet. Signs that your cat has ingested citrus oils include that common citrus smell, drolling, falling, trembling, and weakness. Eventually, liver damage occurs, and many cats experience liver failure, resulting in death. If your cat is treated, the prognosis is good, but left untreated, this poison could be deadly.

Therefore, it is simply important to call your vet if you see anything wrong with your cat at all. Cats are creatures of habit, so if your feline seems to be acting strangely, it is best to schedule an appointment. Do what’s best for your pet and try to keep harmful products in places where they can’t be reached.

Horrible Hairballs

Your cat’s health is important. Your veterinarian can teach you all about the many health conditions your cat could experience, but it is also important to learn about such things on your own. If you want to be sure that you cat is getting the best care possible, you need to watch for signs that something may be wrong with your pet. One common medical condition that affects many cats is hairballs. While hairballs are normal for a cat to some extent, you should contact you veterinarian immediately if you think the problem is out of control.

Cats get hairballs mainly because they spend so much time cleaning themselves. Although cats do not like water, they do like being very clean at all times, and they do so, of course, my licking their fur. You cat probably grooms many times every day. Because cats also shed, they swallow a lot of their own hair. Most of this passes naturally through the cat’s system, but occasionally the hair becomes matted and entwined in the stomach, causing a hairball that is too large to pass through the system. When this happens, the cat vomits the hairball.

If your cat seems to have an abnormally high amount of hairballs, you should talk to you veterinarian. About a quarter of all digestive blockages in cats come from hairballs that cannot pass or be vomited and this can make you cat very sick. Huge hairballs that size of baseballs have been known to form in a cat’s stomach. A hairball of that size can easily kill your cat.

There are a number of signs you will see in a cat having a problem with hairballs. If your cat is retching often, has a change in digestion, or has a swollen abdomen, he or she may have a problem with hairballs. Your veterinarian can give you cat flavored medication that your pet will love. Contained inside are non-digestible oil lubricants that will help your cat pass hairballs easier. Taking this medication regularly will prevent your cat from ever forming such hairballs. Another great way to prevent hairballs from forming is a high-fiber diet, possibly including a fiber supplement. Home remedies, on the other hand, are not a good idea, because they could cause other problems with your cat’s digestive system.

When in doubt, call your cat’s veterinarian. Animal doctors are specially trained to help you help your pets. When you report health abnormalities to your veterinarian, you are able to best keep your cat healthy and safe, no matter how many hairballs may form.

Taking Kitty to the Dentist

It is important for you to go to the dentist at least annually for checkups. This is, however, also important to your cat! Many people never think about it, but good dental health can keep your cat happy and disease-free. Whenever your cat goes to the vet, make sure that dental health is checked and discussed, and if your cat is acting strangely at all, especially with eating habits, make sure that dental health problems are not a concern.

Kittens, like baby humans, have fewer teeth than adult cats. Each kitten has 26 temporary teeth, which begin to appear at about three weeks of age. An adult cat will have 30 permanent teeth—16 on the top and 14 on the bottom. A cat usually begins getting his or her permanent teeth when he or she is three of four months old. Some of these teeth have two roots while others have three.

The most common dental diseases found in cats are resporption lesions and gum disease (gingivitis). Resorption lesions are also known as cervical line lesions or neck lesions and often result in tooth loss. These lesions are difficult to detect, as they often grow below the gum line. Gum disease is found in over 70% of cats by the age of three. You can tell if your cat has gum disease by looking for yellow and brown tarter build up along the gum line and over the tooth, red inflamed gums, and chronic bad breath.

Oral disease is often an indication of other more serious health problems. For example, it is common for a cat with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) to have oral health problems. Dental conditions are also commonly found with feline immunodeficiency virus and feline calicivirus. Therefore, if your pet is have dental problems, you need to see a vet right away about these conditions to make sure they are symptoms of a much more serious disease.

Cats can also accidentally break teeth. This can be a result of a fall, a fight with another cat or other animal, or biting into something too hard to chew. Usually, the upper canine tooth will be the tooth fractured. This is the tooth in your cat’s mouth that looks like a large fang. If this is fractured, your cat may or may not be in pain. The first symptom of this kind of a fracture is continuous sneezing.

Overall, oral health is important in all mammals. Cats are susceptible to a number of dental disease and problems, just like humans. By taking your cat to the vet often and asking about oral health, you can make sure that you are providing the best health care foods and tools for your feline friend.

Cold and your Cat’s Health

Although your cat may have a furry coat, cold weather can still be extremely dangerous. Imagine how you feel after being out on a cold day for more than a few minutes—even with your winter coat, you are probably still very cold. Cats are the same way, and if you leave your pet exposed to the cold for too long, he or she may show signs of hypothermia. In a worst-case scenario, hypothermia leads to death.

There are many different reasons why your cat could become too cold. If you typically let your cat outdoors, remember that he or she will need to come back inside more quickly during the winter. This is especially true for smaller cats, cats with short hair, or cats recovering from an illness. Also, never let your cat outside if he or she is wet, for whatever reason. In fact, if you bathe your cat or your cat otherwise gets wet, dry him or her immediately if the weather is cold, even if you are indoors. Make sure your cat cannot get outside in any way—your pet may not be able to figure out how to get back inside, and by the time you realize that he or she is missing, hypothermia could have taken hold.

Hypothermia is a medical condition when the body temperature drops too low for the organs to function properly. Frostbite often occurs in the extremities, because the body will begin to shut down unnecessary body parts in order to keep the vital organs as warm as possible. If you cat has hypothermia, you’ll see your pet shivering, moving slowly, and breathing shallowly. Eventually, your cat will become unresponsive and die. Therefore, it is important to warm up your pet.

However, if you warm a pet too quickly, the damage could be even worse. Resist the urge to dunk your pet in warm water! Instead, warm slowly. Bring your animal into a warm room and wrap in warm blankets. You can even throw a towel in the dryer for a few seconds. Or use warm water bottles wrapped in a washcloth. Hairdryers work well, as long as you don’t get too close to your cat and keep them on the low settings. Once your cat starts to warm up, a warm bath could be very helpful, although this is not a good idea if you plan to take him or her outside again to go to the vet.

Remember, calling your vet is always your best option. Animals simply sometimes get outside accidentally, no matter how caring you may be to your pet. If your cat shows symptoms of being too cold, you can use these warming techniques to save your pet’s life, and your vet will be able to get you on the right track to helping your pet recover.

Retirement: Health for your Aging Cat

Age is just a number, right? A Human who is 60 years old may act like a young adult, while another human the same age may at like he or she is on a deathbed. Cats are the same way! Your pet may act like a kitten for many years or may be gray and achy quite young. Specific breed, environment, and genetics play a role, but in general, a well-cared for house cat usually lives to be at least 15 years old. Some cats live to be well over 30.

There are things you can do, however, to provide your cat with the chance for the longest life possible. For example, have your cat spayed or neutered. Statistics show that fixed cats live longer, because this causes the cat to stay closer to home and be exposed to few dangerous situations and disease. Good nutrition is also important. Make sure that you are buying cat food that is appropriate for your cat’s age.

As you cat ages, certain medical conditions may cause you to make special considerations for your cat. Examples include reduced tolerance to extreme temperatures, decreased sensory perception, susceptibility to infection, arthritis and joint stiffness, digestion problems, liver and kidney problems, weaker bones, cancer, muscle weakness, slow reaction, memory loss, high blood pressure, and irritability. As you can see, aging cats have many of the same problems as aging humans!

Along with a good diet, promote healthy amounts to exercise in your cat. You can do this by allowing your cat to go outside and by playing with your cat every day. Toys and environmental pieces, like scratching posts, are great for encouraging your cat to exercise. Remember, cats may spend a lot of the day sleeping, which is fine. If you are overly concerned, talk to your vet about your cat’s sleeping habits.

Preventative health care is, of course, important. Make sure that your cat has regular checkups with the vet to make sure everything is in check. You should also brush your cat’s teeth daily and have your cat groomed regularly to prevent skin diseases. As cats age, most grow to love grooming. Monitor your cat for diet chances, changing sleep habits, and unsafe water consumption. The key to graceful aging in a cat is and owner who is well involved in his or her life. Make sure that you provide advanced care for your cat as he or she grows, and your pet should be a part of your life for a very long time.

Safe Toys for your Pet Bird

When concerning yourself with your pet bird’s health it is important to understand bird safety. Your bird’s vet can go over basic safety with you concerning your bird, but to truly be safe, it is important for you to learn about bird safety before you ever get a pet bird in the first place. Being in charge of a pet bird is like being in charge of a child—they need constant care and your attention to be safe at all times. When learning about bird safety, make sure that you learn which toys are good for your birds and which could be unsafe.

All birds need toys. Because your bird will be in a cage much of the time, toys provide entertainment and activity. Not having toys could lead to bored, depression, and obesity in your pet bird. However, if you choose the wrong toys, your boy could get hurt. Not all bird toys made are appropriate for every bird.

First, consider the size of the toy. Birds come in many different sizes, as do bird toys. If you get a toy that is too small for your bird, he or she could eat it and choke, like can happen if you give a very young child a small toy. However, toys that are too large could also be a problem. When a toy is too large, not only will your bird not be able to play with it, but he or she may also be scared of it, or it could fall/swing and hurt your bird. Buy toys that your bird can comfortably play with.

When purchasing toys, also read the label to make sure they are dyed with natural things like vegetable dyes, or else they should be untreated completely. Birds will chew on everything, so other materials could be harmful. If your toys include metal parts, talk to your vet, because some metals can make a bird very sick in some cases.

When you purchase a toy, attaching it in your bird’s cage is also an important part of safety. Never use clips not made for this purpose, as they can be made of an unsafe metal or snap off, causing your bird to be hurt when playing. Instead, use string to attach the toy or use clips made for birdcages.

Of course, your vet’s office may sell toys for your bird that are both safe and fun. If your bird is ever injured by playing with a toy, make sure to call the vet right away. Having your vet’s phone number on hand is important to make sure that your bird gets the best care possible.

Psittacosis: The Parrot Fever

When you are dealing with Psittacosis, you are dealing with a sickness that is found in birds but can be transmitted to other animals, as well as to people. It is a disease that is caused by an organism called Chlamydophila psittaci. Psittacosis can be infectious to humans, birds, cows, cats, sheep, goats and pigs. It will also infect all different kinds of birds.

Most of the time, birds get it from one another by inhaling dust from the droppings or from the feathers of the birds that have been infected. When a lot of birds have been together, like in a pet shop or boarding place, it might happen more often.

There are several symptoms that might show that your bird has Psittacosis, even though there aren’t any for sure symptoms. If your bird doesn’t eat or drink, loses weight, is depressed or listless, or has watery green droppings as well as discharge from anywhere, or dies suddenly, it might have Psittacosis. Even if a bird doesn’t show symptoms, it can still be a carrier, and can pass it to its offspring.

If you think your bird has Psittacosis, you have to be sure that it goes to a vet, even though diagnosis is tough. Treatment should begin right away ,and is going to be done by a vet and should only be done by an avian vet. You should also get any birds that have been exposed to your sick bird treated as well.

There are several things that you can do to make sure that you prevent any of your birds from getting Psittacosis. You should always take your new pet birds to the vet, and should isolate them from other birds for at least 6 weeks to make sure that nothing develops. You should also only get your pet birds from a supplier that has a good reputation.

It is possible for humans to get Psittacosis. If you are sick or elderly, or have an immunosuppressing condition, you are gong to be at high risk. If you have lots of exposure to birds, and have developed something that seems like a prolonged flue, you are going to want to talk to your doctor about your exposure to birds and see if this could be the cause of your ailment.

Remember as well that good hygiene plays a role. Be sure to wash your hands carefully after handing your pet bird or anything that comes into contact with your pet bird.

Health Care for your New Pet Bird

When you bring an animal into your home as a pet, no matter what type of animal it is, there are always things that you are going to want to do to make sure that that animal is well taken care of and is going to live a long and happy life. Such is the case with your new pet bird. You are going to want to make sure that you know a few things about how to care for your new pet bird so that he can live a happy life.

First of all it is important to recognize that not all pet birds are the same. This means that not all care is going to be given in the same way for the pet birds, so you have to be sure that you know exactly what you are getting into. This means that before you bring a pet bird home to live in your house, you have to research that exact type and breed of bird. Don’t rely on general pet bird info for each pet bird, and how to care for them. You have to be a responsible pet owner and be sure that you know exactly what your particular pet bird needs.

Next, there are some general pet bird rules that will come into play to help you be sure your pet bird is well taken care of. First, be sure that their cage is located in a spot where the temperature can be easily controlled. This should be spot that never gets too hot or too cold. If it is near a window, you have to be sure that the sun does not shine directly on it, and also that there is no draft that can come in and make your bird chilled. Controlling your bird’s environment is the first step to making sure that they are healthy and happy.

Next, you should set up a schedule to make sure that they are getting the proper food and water often. You always want to be sure that they have fresh food and clean water, so you should be sure to watch them carefully and see how often you are going to have to do this. The cage is something else that you have to be very careful of, you have to be sure that you are cleaning it out regularly so that there isn’t any smell, or any chance for sicknesses to develop.

Birds and Metal Poisoning

When you own a pet bird, you know that there are always going to be things that you should look out for, and things that you have to be careful of so that your bird doesn’t get sick or injured. You always want to be on the lookout for things that will help your bird be happy and healthy, and you never want to be in a situation where you have done anything careless that is going to let your pet bird become sick. Birds and metal poisoning is something that you want to keep in mind when you own pet birds.

Many times, people keep their pet birds in cages that are designed just for them. This is the best way to do this, as the manufacturers of the birdcages are going to be sure to use proper things in the birdcage – things that aren’t going to make your bird sick. You should always keep your pet birds in a cage that is designed for them. First of all, they are going to be less likely to get out, and second of all, you know that the cage has been built and designed to hold pet birds, and therefore is not going to be harmful in any way.

If you keep your pet bird somewhere other than a bird cage, or if you let your pet bird roam in your house without supervising them, you always run the risk of having your bird be poisoned by something. Like any other animal, a bird will explore his surroundings, and might be tempted to nibble on the bars of a cage, or on something in your home. If there are metals that are unhealthy for birds, you might find yourself with a very sick bird.

The best way to avoid metal poisoning in your pet bird is to make sure that you are keeping your bird either in a cage that is designed for him, or that you have gone to the trouble to research your cage’s materials to be sure that they aren’t going to harm your bird. Also, you have to be sure to supervise your pet bird very much when he is out of the cage to be sure that he doesn’t get into anything he shouldn’t. A good way to do this is to bird proof the room that he will be in, and to make sure that nothing in that room is going to harm him. Then, while he is out, be sure to keep a good eye on him so he doesn’t get into trouble.

Code Red: Emergency Illness and Your Bird

When you bird suddenly becomes ill, your very first step should be to call your vet. However, there are things you can do to prevent your bird from dying and to make your bird more comfortable while waiting for your vet or while on the way to the animal hospital. Birds make wonderful pets, but they require lots of work and attention, so if your bird becomes ill suddenly, it is important to provide the best care possible.

First, keep your bird hydrated. Just like humans, a sick bird can easily lose hydration, which can lead to a number of problems. Eating is important as well. If necessary, force-feed your bird. This will provide your bird’s body with the needed energy for fighting the illness. Your vet can instruct you on what to feed your bird and how to do it. In general, you should remove other foods from the cage to ensure that your bird is eating only the healthy foods for sick birds that you are providing.

It is also important that your bird be warm. A heater or light can make your bird uncomfortable, but make sure that your bird’s cage is in a warm room and provide a hot water bottle in the cage for your bird. Sick birds should have an environmental temperature of about 30 degrees Celsius, unless instructed otherwise by your vet.

When your bird is sick, quarantine from other birds or pets is usually recommended. Have an extra, smaller cage on hand use for this purpose and keep the ill bird in a different room. Use disinfecting sprays when handling he sick bird and clean his or her cage often to kill bacteria. To keep the germs low, keep the water levels in the cage as low as possible and replace often in order to stop bacteria from breeding.

If your bird is very ill, do not hesitate to take him or her to the local animal hospital. If possible, have someone else call or announce that you will be coming and get on the road, early treatment is the key to saving your bird’s life in many cases. Sometimes, no matter how well you care for your pet bird, his or her health will simply suffer. Make sure that you are providing the best home possible, and the rest is up to chance. The important thing is to look after your bird when he or she is sick to help your bird heal and become well again as soon as possible.

Great Expectations: What Happens when you Take your Pet Bird to the Vet

Whenever your animal is sick, no matter what kind of animal you have, and you have to go to the vet, there are going to be lots of things that you are going to want to keep in mind. Of course, you are going to be taking your pet to the vet even when they aren’t sick, because in order to have a healthy pet you need to be getting it a check up, just like you would a person. So, no matter what your reason is for taking your pet bird to vet, there are some things that you should keep in mind to make sure that it goes the way you’d like it to go.

First of all, you should know your vet, and you should know what their policies are for taking your animals in. What kind of time frame do you need to make an appointment, and how long do appointments usually last? These are things that you can ask your vet before you bring any of your animals in, and these are things that you should be aware of so that you can plan your day accordingly.

Something else that you should be aware of when you are taking your pet bird to the vet is that not a lot of vets know a lot about pet birds. In fact, unless you have spoken to your vet before about your bird, you shouldn’t be surprised if your vet only has a brief knowledge about your pet bird. Therefore, you should bring in some information about your bird when you first go to the vet, especially if you have a rare type of pet bird, or one that you don’t’ think people around your area would know much about. If your vet says that he doesn’t know much about birds, it is perfectly ok to ask for recommendations of vets that know more about birds and that can give you more information.

Unless your vet mentions that he doesn’t know much about your bird, chances are that he knows more than you do. So he is probably going to handle your bird and do things to it that you might not feel comfortable doing. You have to trust your vet with your bird, just like you trust your vet with your other animals. Your vet is trained in animal medicine, so he should know all about what to do. Also, if your vet gives you advice when it comes to taking care of your pet bird, you need to be sure to follow it!

Trimming your Pet Bird’s Wings

There are a lot of things that you need to know about your pet before you become a pet owner. This is true no matter what kind of animal you have, and no matter what kind of situation you find yourself in what it comes to that animal. No matter if you have a dog, cat, or a bird, you have to do research before you make that animal a part of your life, and you have to be sure that you can do all of the proper things for that animal before you find yourself in a situation where you have to take care of an animal. If you can’t take care of an animal properly you shouldn’t have it, because it is not fair to that animal.

One of the hardest things about owning a pet bird is learning how to deal with its wings. There is no magic formula for what kind of birds need certain things done for their wings, and what you should be doing. Most of the time, you should buy the pet bird in the condition that you want it to stay in, because chances are that it was done correctly wherever you got the bird from, and it might not be done correctly if you try to do it yourself.

Trimming a bird’s wings is one of these situations. There are so many things that you have to know about it before you can consider doing it. First of all, you have to take into account what kind of bird you have, and if trimming their wings is even something that is good for that bird. Then, you have to see if the situation you have the bird in even makes it possible to trim their wings. Lastly, depending on what type of bird you have and what situation you are putting that bird into, there are certain ways that you have to go about trimming the wings and there are certain ways that might hurt the bird if you do them.

Trimming a bird’s wings is something that should always be done by a professional. You should not assume that you can figure out how to do it on your own, because if you don’t do it correctly, you can damage that bird forever, and might even cause it to die. If you are considering trimming your bird’s wings, be sure that you have talked to the place where you purchased the bird, as well as to a vet, and that they both agree it is a good idea. Then, be sure that you find someone who knows how to trim your particular bird’s wings.

Aspergillosis and Your Bird

We all love to have animals, but sometimes we need to be careful that we aren’t causing ourselves more pain and suffering by having them. No matter what pet you have, there are risks that are associated with having that pet, and you are going to want to be sure that you know what they are and that you do everything you can to make sure that they don’t’ happen.

First of all, when you have a pet bird or other animals such as birds in your yard or farm, you might run the risk of developing Aspergillosis. This comes from a fungus that can be found in compost piles or other areas where bird waste has collected. With your pet birds, there is little chance of getting Aspergillosis as long as you keep the cage clean, but if you have larger birds or if you have many birds on your property, there is a chance that you could see an outbreak of Aspergillosis if you aren’t careful.

There are several signs of Aspergillosis that you should watch out for. Since it is a general lung infection that comes from fungus, the clearest signs are going to be wheezing and coughing, as well as coughing up phlegm and an inability to breathe. You also might find yourself disoriented, and confused, or with a high fever.

The best way to avoid getting Aspergillosis or any other diseases is always to make sure that you are running clean and safe establishments. This is both for the humans as well as for the birds. You want to be sure that your animals are living in quarters that can be easily cleaned, and that are cleaned often, and you have to be sure that you dispose of the waste in a way that is not dangerous. It does no good to clean out the bird waste if it is still going to be left somewhere that humans might come in contact with it and become sick.

If you think that you or your family members have developed Aspergillosis you are going to want to be sure that you see a doctor right away. There are various stages to the illness, and the sooner you catch it the better you are going to be. You should always be sure that you are notifying your doctor about what is on your property and what you might have come into contact with as well.

The Basics of Bird Anatomy

When it comes to bird anatomy, most pet bird owners have no clue about how the organs work and how the skeletal system is formed. You might not thing this topic is interesting, but it is very complex, and if you are going to know about birds, you are going to have a lot to learn!

First of all, you have the respiratory system of the birds. They have a high oxygen demand because of the high metabolic rate. This means that they have a respiratory system that is much more efficient than the one a mammal or reptile has. They can ventilate their lungs much more easily, and the lungs are the sites of gas exchange.

When it comes to their circulatory system, birds have a four-chambered heart, which is the same as most mammals. This means that they can get nutrients to their body as well as oxygen very easily. The bird’s heart is going to beat much more quickly that the mammals heart, due to what they have to do to survive.

The digestive system of birds is very interesting. Most of them have a muscular pouch that is called a crop which is formed along their esophagus. It helps them to soften food, as well as regulates the flow of that food through the bird’s system, because the food can be stored in this pouch and used as needed.

The Skeletal system of a bird is interesting as well. Because the bird is intended to fly, the skeleton is adapted for this. It is very lightweight, which would allow the bird to get off of the ground. On the other hand, it is very strong, so that it doesn’t break when a bird takes off or lands.

Birds also have a wide range of muscles, usually about 175, that are going to control how the bird moves. Birds also have very sharp eyesight, much better than that of humans. Birds are able to reproduce by making sperm and fertilizing eggs in order to breed.

All in all, the anatomy of the bird is very interesting and different from that of mammals. If you are going to be a bird owner, and if you are going to know everything there is to know about your pet bird, it is very important that you do all that you can to make sure you understand how the bird’s body works. This will help you to be a good pet owner, and it will help your bird to live a long and happy life.

Caring for Aging Pet Birds

When you have any kinds of animals at home, you know that you want to take care of them for as long as they belong to you. For many people this is going to mean that as their pets get older, they have to figure out how to care for them. Caring for a pet as they get older is always very important, because not only is it your pet that you are caring for, it is a way to keep your pet comfortable and in your life for longer. No one wants to know that their pet isn’t comfortable, and so as your pet bird ages, it is important that you do all that you can to take care of them.

Pet birds live for various amounts of time. There are many pet birds that will live for a couple of years, but there are also pet birds that can live much, much longer. That means that in order to properly care for your aging pet bird, the first thing that you need to do is to figure out how long they are going to live for. Most birds don’t really change their appearance, as they get older, so you want to be sure that you know when your pet is going to be an old bird, so that you can prepare for this.

There isn’t much that changes in birds as they age. If your pet bird spends most of his time in his cage, you are probably going to find that he appears to be the same, day after day. However, in most cases, your bird is going through changes that you simply can’t see as he gets older. So, to make sure that you are able to properly care for him, a good thing to do is to take careful notice of him and what he does when he is a young bird. You might want to take notice of the things that he does – how far he hops or flies, and what kind of action he has during the day. This way, as he starts to get older, you can see if he is changing anything about the way he acts.

The best thing that you can do to help your bird age in a way that is good for them is to make sure that they always have access to the things that are important, such as fresh water and food, and treats. These things should be placed in areas where your bird doesn’t have to do a lot of moving to get there, so that as he gets older, he is still able to take care of himself.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriasis Arthritis is an illness that affects millions of people. There is no cure yet for it. It is known for the swelling of joints and scaly patches of skin. This type of arthritis is related to the skin condition of psoriasis and it also affects millions of people around the world. If you or someone that you know is dealing with psoriatic arthritis it is necessary to do the right research for this condition in order to completely understand its symptoms and treatment options that are out there for the pain. With learning all that you can about psoriatic arthritis and all the drugs that treat it you can get a better understanding of how to treat it. Your doctor will be able to provide you with the right information so that you can read on it and use the different organizations that are located on the Internet and at the centers across the country.

There are a lot of people that are diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis and experience swelling of the joints in the body. This will include the wrists, knees, back, elbows, and fingers. This condition will also bring gray areas of skin that are very dry around the knees, elbows and lower back. The people that are suffering from the condition will often have fingers that appear sausage like and pitted nails or cuts around the fingernails. The cause of the condition is not known but experts think that a combination of genetic predispositions and the environment play roles in the development of psoriatic arthritis. You can find these problems at any age and with any gender or race. The most common age for psoriatic arthritis will start between age 20 and 50.

This is a condition that is tricky because the patients are dealing with the two fused diseases. One is of the skin and the one of the joints. It is important to talk to your doctor or have another medical professional helping you with treatments. There are many drugs that can have a negative reaction to it. There are different options other than medication that you can use to treat this disease. Some exercises will work well with those patients that have swelling in their joints. You can also have skin therapy to treat psoriatic parts of the disease. Heat and cold can be used to treat psoriatic arthritis. Rest is very important too. Using splints and surgery are not usually used but the options are available for more of the extreme conditions. Cosmetically this is a disease that can be treated with laser surgery light treatment. There are other corrective cosmetic surgeries too. You can talk to our doctor to find out more on this disease and your options for treatments.

Paget’s disease

There are different kinds of arthritic conditions. There are over 100 and one of these conditions is a very debilitating disorder that is called Paget’s disease. This type of arthritis is usually going to affect patients who are in their later years of life. This will be between the ages of 50 and 70. This is a chronic skeletal condition that is similar to osteoarthritis. It is sometimes misdiagnosed. Paget’s disease can be painful and make life hard but there are many things that you can do to prevent this disease from happening as well as a number of treatments if you have already started to get the disease.

Paget’s disease is characterized by enlarged and deformed bone structure in one or more parts of the body. The pelvis, legs, skull and back are more commonly affected with the disease and it can result in high amounts of arthritic pain and can also account for hearing loss that starts in the skull. The patient’s bones are fragile and fractures can happen easily. There is no one-way of cause for Paget’s disease but there are many things that a person can do if they develop this type of pain.

Paget’s Disease can occur when the enzyme SAP is overly produced in the bones and causing it to grow abnormally and start to be weak. Measuring SAP is what doctors can do to determine if the pain that you are having is due to Paget’s even if you may see some other signs like bowed limbs. SAP is measured often with a blood test and higher than normal levels along with normal kidney function. Doctors will also use SAP level readings to chart how patients are reacting to different forms of treatment for their conditions.

Bisphosponates and calcitonin are the two types of drugs that are ready by the Food and Drug Administration to treat Paget’s disease. There are doctors that may sometimes recommend surgery for fractures or extreme deformities. There are alternative medical treatments that can also help patients cope with the pain. This will include acupuncture, massage, cupping, medication, and Eastern exercises like Yoga.

It is important to remain positive with the treatment. Paget’s Disease can be extremely painful but it is possible for patients to live even when they are suffering from the disease. You need to learn all that you can about the illness and stay educated on new medications and treatments so that you can take good care of your body and keep healthy.

Arthritis Support

There are millions of Americans that suffer from the pain of arthritis and related conditions all the time. The most important thing to know is that you are not alone in this suffering. Many times you may feel like you are the only one going through this disease, but there are others that feel the same way that you do. Arthritis can be a very hard problem to understand and many patients who suffer from arthritis will feel like they are alone and confused. However, with some help, you can meet and talk to others that are dealing with the same pain of arthritis conditions. Joining one of the many different arthritis support groups will help you feel better about your condition and give you a better outlook on life.

The Arthritis Foundation is one of the non-profit organizations that were formed for those that have arthritis. There are over 100 different conditions that are related to arthritis and this foundation has worked hard to meet those needs and concerns for people. This organization will help to give out information about arthritic conditions as well as work as an advocate for the patients that are dealing with arthritis. They will sponsor medical research for the condition and hope to find a cure for it one day. The Arthritis Foundation will join in with many other organizations and companies to bring patients the service that they need. Their website will help those that are suffering and the family members and friends that want to learn more about how they can help and donate money towards arthritis research. You can also join an online organization and benefit from their different member services.

When you are looking for something on a personal level, you need to first find a local arthritis group and talk to your doctor about it. Usually hospitals will sponsor these types of support groups and help people cope with different disease and pain. Arthritis is no different. A local group will usually meet with others that are dealing with arthritis and get feedback on how to cope in daily life. These community groups are going to be lifelong friends and you can learn to live better and be more optimistic. You can check your local newspapers if your doctor does not know where to find a support group. You can even start your own group! If no support group exists in your town, there may be a huge need for someone to head up this type of project.

A support group is an important way for children that are suffering from arthritis as well. Arthritis is a condition that is usually more common with age; many children will feel isolated because they have it at such a young age. The children’s wing of your local hospital may be able to help you find a support group. It makes no difference what age you are, you can get benefits from the community or support group when you have arthritis. You need to look online and talk to your doctor about more information on this subject.

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