Annual Exams for Cats: Why They’re Just as Important as Dog Checkups
Cats are true masters of disguise, fitting into the smallest spaces, concealing themselves in hard-to-find places, and even hiding their pain from their owners. It can be quite challenging to tell when your feline friend needs a bit of medical attention. This may explain why more than 90% of dog owners make sure to take their pups to the vet each year, while only around 40% of cat owners do the same.
Filter Failure: What Happens When a Pet’s Kidneys Can't Keep Up
A Guide For Pet Owners Learning About Kidney Disease In Cats And Dogs When we think about vital organs required for life in most animals, the heart may be our first thought. However, there are organs just as important that don’t quite get the same amount of attention, like the kidneys. In our pets, the kidneys filter waste, balance internal fluids, regulate and produce hormones for red blood cell production, and participate in blood pressure regulation.
Why Does My Cat Have Chin Acne? Causes and Solutions for Feline Breakouts
When I think of acne, I’m instantly transported back to middle school me — awkwardly putting on way too much foundation in a shade that didn’t even slightly match my skin tone, all in a desperate attempt to conceal the unconcealable. The struggle was (let’s be honest, is) real!
Hop Into Rabbit Care: A Comprehensive Guide for Bunny Owners
There’s nothing quite as heartwarming as watching a little bunny hop around or hearing the soft purr of a content rabbit nestled in your arms. Rabbits can make wonderful companions for the right family, but it’s important to remember that their care is quite different from that of a cat, even if they can be trained to use a litter box!
Can My Dog or Cat Take Human Medication?
As a veterinarian, I often hear questions from concerned pet parents about whether they can give their dog or cat human medications. It’s understandable—when a pet seems uncomfortable, we naturally want to help them feel better as fast as possible. However, reaching for a common over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever or allergy medication could do more harm than good. Many medications formulated for humans can be toxic, even fatal, to pets.
What Pet Owners Need to Know About Tick-Borne Diseases & Tick Prevention
For pet owners with active dogs and cats who love to spend time outside, there are few things more annoying and worrisome than ticks. These tiny external parasites are notorious for spreading a variety of diseases that can severely impact dogs and cats, and finding one in your dog or cat’s fur can really put a damper on your day outdoors and potentially create health problems for your pet.
Senior Dog Care: How to Keep Your Aging Dog Healthy and Happy
Our senior dogs have spent years by our sides, offering unconditional love and loyalty. As they enter their golden years, it's our turn to give back by filling their final chapters with comfort, good health, and happiness! So, how do we do that? Caring for an aging dog goes beyond routine checkups; it’s about understanding the changes their bodies are going through, spotting the subtle signs of potential health concerns, and taking proactive steps to keep them feeling their best. With the right approach, we can help our senior pups enjoy this stage of life to the fullest.
Can My Dog Eat That? A Veterinarian's Take on the Internet's Most Asked Foods for Dogs
As a dog owner, it's natural to wonder about the safety of sharing your favorite foods with your furry friend. The internet is full of questions about what dogs can and cannot eat. To help clear up the confusion, we've compiled a list of the top foods people frequently ask about and whether they are safe for your dog.
Why Indoor Cats Need Vaccines and Preventative Care, Too!
As a cat owner, you might believe that keeping your feline friend indoors shields them from all dangers and health issues. While indoor cats are generally safer from many outdoor hazards, they still require vaccines and preventative care to ensure a long, healthy life. Let's dive into why vaccines and regular veterinary check-ups are essential for indoor cats and explore the core and optional vaccines recommended for our indoor companions.
Feline Baselines & Blood Work: How Knowing Your Cat’s “Normal” Can Lead to Better Health Outcomes
Despite the misconception of cats being aloof and solitary, owners often have a deep bond with their cats, and prioritize their health, happiness, and well-being above all else. One essential aspect of prioritizing your cat’s health is understanding what constitutes a healthy baseline for your cat and how regular blood work can provide invaluable insights into their current health status, as well as what’s on the horizon for their health.