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Feline Care Guides

Administering Injectable Medication To Your Cat

Most injectable medications given at home are administered by injection directly under the skin (known as subcutaneous injection). Do not risk being bitten, scratched, or otherwi...

Administering Medications to Your Cat

Before you leave your veterinarian’s office with a new medication, be sure to address any concerns or questions with your veterinary team. It is very important to follow all labe...

Administering Subcutaneous Fluids to Your Cat

The procedure of injecting a sterile fluid solution directly under the skin is referred to as subcutaneous fluid administration. The advantages of the subcutaneous fluid route in...

Adopting Instead of Buying a Pet

While estimates vary, approximately three to four million dogs and cats are euthanized (“put to sleep”) each year in the United States because too few people spay or neuter the pets they ha...

Allergy Testing

Allergy testing is most commonly performed to determine if a pet has atopy, also known as atopic dermatitis or allergic inhalant dermatitis. Allergy tests can help identify the s...

Alopecia

Alopecia (hair loss) can occur when hair fails to grow at a normal rate or when hair is lost more quickly than it can grow back. Alopecia can result from a variety of medical conditions...

Anal Sac Disease

All dogs and cats have two anal glands located beside their anus. These glands are often called anal sacs. Most animals express their anal sacs when they defecate. Some animals expe...

Anemia in Cats

Anemia in cats has many possible causes, and it can range in severity from mild to severe. Severe anemia is life threatening and requires immediate veterinary care. Anemia ...

Antibiotic Therapy for Ear Infections

Any pet can develop an ear infection; underlying allergies or other illnesses are often the cause. Bacterial infection generally occurs secondary to the inflammation and unhealthy envir...

Antifreeze Toxicosis

Antifreeze poisoning occurs when pets drink antifreeze containing ethylene glycol. The liver quickly breaks down ethylene glycol into toxic products that can lead to kidney failure and ...

Aspirin Toxicosis

High doses of aspirin can be poisonous (toxic) to dogs and cats; cats are more susceptible to aspirin toxicosis than dogs are. Toxic effects can occur within hours of the pet swallowing...

Avoiding Injury: Tips for Interpreting Signs of Aggression in Cats

Most cats exhibit outward signs when they are unhappy or angry about something. Understanding those behaviors may save you from injury. Show children how to play gently with cats, and d...

Bathing Your Cat

Reasons to Bathe Your Cat Cats, by nature, are very good groomers. They have pointy structures on the surface of their tongues, called papillae, which are designed to be an essential ...

Biopsy

A biopsy allows your veterinarian to determine the types of cells in a tissue sample. Biopsies are commonly used to determine if growths are cancerous but can also help determine the se...

Bite-Wound Abscesses in Cats

An abscess forms when infection, inflammation, and damaged cells cannot be cleared by the body. Abscesses can occur when bacteria are deposited under the skin (as with bite wounds or ot...

Bladder Stones and Kidney Stones

Urinary stones are made of minerals and can form anywhere in the urinary tract of dogs and cats. These stones can irritate the bladder lining and obstruct urine flow from the kidney to ...

Blood Pressure Test

An (indirect) blood pressure test measures the pressure of blood against the walls of large arteries. It is a noninvasive, painless procedure that can be performed on an outpatient basi...

Breast Cancer in Dogs and Cats

Breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal mammary gland (breast) cells. Tumors occur most frequently in older, female pets that have not been spayed. Most (80% to 90%) ma...

Bringing a New Kitten Home

Your kitten must receive veterinary care before being introduced to other cats. Your kitten must be vaccinated against various diseases on a schedule, beginning at 2 to 3 months ...

Brushing Your Cat's Teeth

Periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and affects most cats before they are 3 years old. Bacteria from periodontal disease can spread to affect other organs and cause illness. ...

Caring for Orphaned Kittens

Orphaned kittens should be taken to a veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian can give you advice on caring for kittens and might be able to provide you with contact information ...

Caring for Your New Kitten

Kittens should be fed a nutritionally complete, name-brand kitten food with the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) statement on the bag or label. Proper nutrition...

Caring for Your Pet After Surgery

After your pet has surgery, it is important to strictly follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for rehabilitation and recovery. Before you leave the hospital, ensure that you...

Cat Litter

Most cats prefer unscented, scoopable (sandlike) litter. Many owners prefer scoopable litters because they control odors and absorb liquid (clump) well. Cats may stop using the litt...

Cat Supplies

Every well-kept cat needs some basic supplies. Many kinds of supplies are available, so your choices will depend on your and your cat’s needs and preferences. Here are some basic guidel...

Cherry Eye (prolapsed nictitans gland)

Cherry eye is a condition in which the tear-producing gland of the eye appears as a red, round mass on the inside corner of the pet’s eye. The condition usually occurs in young dogs and...

Chocolate Toxicosis

Toxicosis is disease due to poisoning. Chocolate toxicosis is a common problem in dogs, but less common in cats. Depending on how much chocolate is ingested, the signs can ra...

Chronic Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a very general term used to describe several conditions that can affect the kidneys or damage kidney cells. Some types of kidney disease are reversible. Chronic kidney diseas...

Chronic Otitis

Chronic ear infections may involve bacterial or yeast overgrowth in the external, middle, or inner ear. Chronic infection can permanently damage the ear canal and cause pain, neurologic...

Coccidiosis

Coccidiosis is an intestinal condition caused by a single-celled parasite. Dogs and cats swallow cysts containing the parasite from contaminated environments, usually during grooming. ...

Cognitive Dysfunction

Cognitive dysfunction (CD) in dogs and cats can be compared with Alzheimer’s disease in humans, although the conditions are not identical. Before diagnosing CD, your veterinarian may re...

Colitis

Colitis is a condition in which the colon, the last portion of the digestive tract, is inflamed. Dogs and cats may experience colitis for a few days or for many months. Signs of col...

Common Household Poisons

Many common food items or household products can sicken or even kill animals. Be aware of what substances may be toxic to your pet, and store and use them safely. I...

Congestive Heart Failure in Cats

Congestive heart failure is a condition in which a cat’s heart cannot deliver sufficient blood to the body. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (a thickening of the heart walls) is one of the m...

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva (the tissues lining the inner eyelids and the white portion of the eye). Diagnosis is based on physical examination findings, but fluor...

Constipation and Obstipation in Cats

Constipation is a condition in which a cat passes feces less often or in smaller amounts than normal. Obstipation occurs when severe constipation makes defecation impossible or nearly i...

Coping With Cancer

Cancer is extremely common in pets. Cancer can be successfully managed in many cases. Most pets tolerate treatment extremely well. An accurate diagnosis and proper staging of a ...

Coping With the Loss of a Pet

Grief is a natural reaction to the loss of a pet. Everyone grieves differently. Pet-loss support resources exist and may be helpful for you. The Five Stages of Grief Grief is a...

Corneal Ulceration

The cornea is the clear covering of cells on the front of the eye; it can become damaged if scratched or irritated. Corneal ulcers can be very painful and can cause eye redness, tearing...

Declaw Surgery in Cats

Scratching is a natural cat behavior, but it can be destructive in a household. Declaw surgery generally involves the removal of all or a portion of the last bone in each digit of the f...

Demodectic Mange

Demodectic mange is an inflammatory skin condition caused by microscopic mites of the genus Demodex. It is most common in young dogs and rare in cats. Signs include scaly patches of...

Dental Care

Without routine dental care, most dogs and cats develop periodontal (dental) disease by 3 years of age. Periodontal disease is the most common health problem in dogs and cats. ...

Dental Cleaning

85% of all pets have periodontal disease by the time they are 3 years of age. Dental disease can result in bad breath, painful chewing, and tooth loss. Bacteria under the gum...

Dental Exam

A dental exam is performed by your veterinarian to determine the overall dental health of your pet. A dental exam can help identify early signs of dental disease. Left untrea...

Dewclaw Removal

Dewclaw removal may be recommended if the dewclaw is deformed or if extra dewclaws are present. Dewclaw removal may also be recommended for hunting or working dogs or if there is a risk...

Deworming and Prevention of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Dogs and Cats

Gastrointestinal parasites can cause serious illness in pets, and some parasites can infect humans. Deworming involves administering medication to treat and control gastrointestinal par...

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is feces that is looser or more watery than normal. Pets with diarrhea may defecate more frequently than usual, have accidents in the house, and may have blood, mucus, or paras...

Ear Cleaning

Ear cleaning can help treat or prevent ear problems. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations closely. Always put health and safety first. If the procedure seems dangerous ...

Ear Hematoma

An ear hematoma is a pocket of blood that forms inside the exterior portion of the ear. Often, ear mites or an infection in the ear canal cause a pet to scratch or shake his or her head...

Ear Infections and Your Pet

Any pet can develop an ear infection, regardless of ear shape, exposure to water (swimming), or the amount of hair inside the ear canal. Underlying allergies or other illnesses can caus...

Ear Mites in Dogs and Cats

The scientific name for ear mites is Otodectes cynotis. Ear mites are contagious to other animals but not to humans. Ear mite infestation can cause secondary ear infections, but the...

Examination and Rabies Vaccine

Regular examinations are essential to maintaining your pet’s health. A thorough physical examination checks every major body system. Periodic vaccine risk assessments help en...

Exercising Your Cat

Regular exercise is important to your cat’s health because it burns calories, reduces appetite, maintains muscle tone, and increases metabolism (the rate at which calories are burned...

Explaining Pet Loss to Children

Our companion animals are often treasured members of the family, and we mourn for them when they die or are euthanized. It is important to recognize your feelings of loss and grief and ...

Eye Discharge

Some pets produce more tears than others, so increased wetness of the eye is not always a medical problem. Eye discharge becomes a problem when it is excessive, abnormal, or accompanied...

Fecal Analysis

Fecal analysis helps your veterinarian determine if your pet has intestinal parasites. Only a small sample of your pet’s stool is required to perform a fecal analysis. Fecal ...

Fecal Centrifugation Testing

Intestinal parasites can cause serious illness and even death in pets. Some parasites are zoonotic, which means humans can become infected. Fecal centrifugation testing can identify...

Fecal Flotation and Giardia Test

Intestinal parasites can cause serious illness and even death in pets. Some parasites are zoonotic, which means they can infect humans. Fecal flotation and Giardia testing can ident...

Fecal Smear

A fecal smear is a thin layer of feces that is examined under a microscope. The smear is usually performed in combination with other tests to identify possible causes of diarrhea. I...

Feeding Your New Kitten

Proper nutrition is especially important for kittens, which need two to three times as many calories and nutrients as adult cats. Cow’s milk should never be given to kittens or c...

Feline Anesthesia

Anesthesia is useful for many procedures, including surgery, biopsies, x-rays, and dental exams and cleanings. Your veterinarian may select local anesthesia, injectable gen...

Feline Arthritis

Thinning of joint cartilage can lead to a vicious cycle of joint deterioration, reduced mobility, and pain. Supportive care is important, and treatment may include pain medicatio...

Feline Asthma

Feline asthma can be a life-threatening condition. Affected cats show signs of breathing difficulty, coughing, and wheezing. Long-term treatment is often necessary to control...

Feline Diabetes Mellitus

Most diabetic cats have diabetes mellitus type 2, meaning the body’s cells develop a “resistance” to insulin; sometimes the body fails to make enough insulin to serve its needs (diabetes me...

Feline Distemper and Feline Leukemia

Feline distemper and feline leukemia are serious infections that can be fatal. Cats that go outside are at increased risk for exposure to feline distemper and feline leukemia. Vacci...

Feline Distemper and Rabies

Feline distemper and rabies are serious infections that can be fatal. Cats that go outside are at increased risk for exposure to feline distemper and rabies. Vaccination can protect ca...

Feline Hypervocalization

Excessive vocalization is called hypervocalization. If you think that your cat might be hypervocalizing because of pain, take him or her to your veterinarian. The most common...

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

Infection with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a contagious, untreatable disease. Cats that go outside are at increased risk for exposure to FIV. Vaccination can help prevent...

Feline Leukemia and Rabies

Feline leukemia and rabies are contagious, untreatable, and commonly fatal. Cats that go outside are at increased risk for exposure to feline leukemia and rabies. Vaccination can prote...

Feline Leukemia Virus

Feline leukemia is a contagious, untreatable disease that can be fatal. Feline leukemia has been linked to the development of certain cancers in cats. Cats that go outside are at incre...

Feline Nutrition

Proper nutrition can help ensure that your cat has optimal health, resistance to disease, a healthy haircoat, a good quality of life, and a long life span. The best way to ensure...

Feline Obesity

Obesity (the storage of excess fat) is usually caused by excessive food intake and insufficient exercise. One of the biggest problems in pets is overfeeding. By examining your cat, ...

Feline Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, an organ in the abdomen that helps the body digest food. In cats, the clinical signs of pancreatitis can be vague, such as appetite loss...

Feline Senior Wellness

As cats grow older, their bodies become less able to cope with physical or environmental stress. Cats are very good at hiding signs of illness, and health problems can appear qui...

Feline Stomatitis

Feline stomatitis is a severe, painful inflammation of a cat’s mouth and gums. Dental disease, certain viruses, and some other inflammatory conditions can cause feline stomatitis. T...

Feline Upper Airway Infections

Cats, especially kittens, often get upper airway infections. Approximately 90% of all upper airway infections in cats are caused by two common viruses: feline herpesvirus-1 and feline c...

Feline Urethral Obstruction

Feline urethral obstruction is a potentially fatal condition, usually seen in male cats, during which urine is prevented from leaving the bladder. The urethra may be plugged with mucus,...

Feline Urinary Problems

Cats can develop serious urinary problems, so it’s important to learn how to recognize trouble signs early. If your cat is unable to urinate, this is an emergency requiring immediate ve...

Feline Urine Marking

Feline urine marking is a normal form of communication between cats. Cats mark with urine to claim their territory. Urine marking occurs most commonly in male cats that have ...

Feline Vaccine Recommendations

Vaccines are important for preventing infectious diseases. Over the years, the widespread use of vaccines has saved the lives of millions of cats. Vaccines are safe and gener...

First Aid and Your Pet

One: Remain calm and try to keep your pet calm. Approach your pet with caution. An animal in pain may bite or scratch. Two: If some sort of stabilization is possible (for example, direct p...

Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)

Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) is a severe allergic reaction to the bite of a flea. FAD can cause intense itching and painful skin wounds. Left untreated, affected animals can...

Flea and Tick Prevention

Fleas and ticks are external parasites that can cause extreme discomfort and serious illness in pets and even people. Fleas and ticks are easily prevented from bothering your pet throug...

Fluorescein Stain

Fluorescein stain can be applied to the eye to detect injuries involving the cornea. Corneal scratches, ulcers, or other defects can be diagnosed using fluorescein staining. Perform...

Follow-up Examination

A follow-up examination is a physical examination that is usually performed a few weeks after the initial examination. The examination is scheduled to evaluate the effectiveness ...

Food Allergy

A food allergy is an immune response to something in the pet’s diet that did not cause problems in the past. Food allergies commonly cause itchiness and/or vomiting and diarrhea in dogs...

Foreign Body Surgery

A foreign body surgery is a procedure to remove an object from a pet’s digestive tract that will not pass through on its own. Diagnosis of a foreign body is usually made by physical exa...

Fungal Culture

A fungal culture test is a method of identifying the specific fungus that may be causing an infection in or on the body. Performing a fungal culture test poses minimal risk ...

Gastrointestinal Parasites in Cats

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites can cause serious illness in cats; some parasites can also infect humans. Your veterinarian can recommend medications to treat and control GI parasites. ...

Getting a Pet Sitter

Finding a pet sitter who you like and trust may take time, so begin your search long before your trip. To find a pet sitter, ask your veterinarian, favorite pet store, or pet-own...

Getting Your Cat Back on Its Feet

The most effective way to treat lameness is to obtain an accurate diagnosis of what is wrong. Always strictly follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for rehabilitation and recovery....

Giardiasis

Giardia is a parasite that is found worldwide and in every region of the United States. Giardiasis (the disease that Giardia causes) can cause diarrhea, appetite loss, and vomiting. ...

Glucose and Fructosamine Testing

Blood glucose and fructosamine tests are helpful tools for monitoringdiabetic patients. The results of glucose and fructosamine testing can helpyour veterinarian ensure that your pet’s ...

Grief in Dogs and Cats

Based on observed changes in behavior, it is thought that some dogs and cats grieve after losing a close human or animal companion. Dogs and cats seem to show a wide variety of response...

Grooming Your Cat

Regular brushing can help keep your cat’s skin and haircoat healthy. Groom your cat when he or she is relaxed, and start with short sessions. Try to make grooming a pleasant ...

Heart Murmurs in Cats

A heart murmur is an abnormal sound that a veterinarian hears when listening to the heart through a stethoscope. A murmur is not always a cause for concern, but it can be an indication ...

Heartworm Disease in Cats

Heartworm disease attacks the lungs, heart, and related blood vessels. It is serious and potentially fatal. Heartworms are transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Ther...

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs when body temperature reaches 106°F to 109°F. Being left in a hot car and exercising in hot weather are the most common causes of ...

Helping Your Arthritic Cat

Arthritis is a joint problem that can reduce a cat’s mobility and cause severe, chronic pain. You can improve life for your arthritic cat by doing the following: Help your cat get or stay...

Helping Your Itchy Pet

In some cases, multiple problems contribute to itching in pets. Scratching can quickly lead to skin damage, bleeding, hair loss, scabs, and secondary skin infections with bacteria or fu...

Hepatic Lipidosis

Hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver disease, is the most common liver disease of cats in North America. It is caused by inadequate food intake or by diseases that may cause a cat to lose ...

Hookworms

Hookworms are internal parasites that live in the small intestines of dogs and cats. People can be infected with hookworms when a hookworm larva penetrates their skin or when they unkno...

How to Administer a Topical Medication to Your Cat

Many conditions in cats require medicine to be applied to the skin. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations closely. Always put health and safety first. If the proc...

How to Administer Ear Medication to Your Cat

Many outer ear infections in cats require medicine to be put directly into the ear. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations closely. Always put health and safety fi...

How to Administer Eye Medication to Your Cat

Many eye conditions in cats require medicine to be put directly into the eye. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations closely. Always put health and safety first. I...

How to Find a Reputable Breeder

Thorough research is important to ensure the breed fits with your lifestyle. Ask for recommendations, research websites, then interview and visit several breeders before making a decisi...

How to Give Your Cat a Pill

Medicines in pill or capsule form are prescribed to treat a variety of conditions. It is important to use only medicines prescribed by a veterinarian and to treat for the full le...

How to Keep Your Cat Off Tables and Counters

Cats naturally like high places, so keeping them off tables and counters can be difficult. It’s best not to try to stifle your cat’s natural jumping and climbing behavior. Your c...

How to Tell if Your Cat Is Sick

Any change in your cat’s normal behavior, such as increased lethargy (tiredness), changes in appetite, weight loss, or hiding in the house may be indications that your cat is ill. Male ...

Human Foods That Are Dangerous for Dogs and Cats

Some human foods can cause serious illness (and even death) in dogs and cats. Pets should not be given human food unless recommended by your veterinarian. If you suspect your pet ma...

Hypertension and Your Pet

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, can affect dogs and cats. In people, the most common type of hypertension is known as primary or essential hypertension, which means tha...

Hyperthyroidism and Your Cat

Hyperthyroidism occurs when a cat’s thyroid gland (an organ located at the front of the neck) produces excess amounts of thyroid hormone. Hyperthyroidism tends to affect middle-aged and...

Ibuprofen and Naproxen Toxicosis

Ibuprofen and naproxen can be toxic to dogs and cats, but cats are much more susceptible to this toxicity than dogs are. A single 200-milligram ibuprofen tablet can be toxic to a cat or...

Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia

Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys red blood cells. IMHA can be a primary condition, or it can be caused by an...

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a broad term for conditions that cause the lining of the digestive tract to become thickened and inflamed. IBD can occur in dogs and cats. Signs ...

Injectable Medication

Some medications can only be administered by injection and must be given by a trained veterinary professional. Your veterinary care team will be glad to address any questions or ...

Intervertebral Disk Disease

Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) occurs when a disk between the vertebrae (bones of the spine) ruptures and pushes against the spinal cord. While IVDD can happen in cats, it’s more co...

Keeping Your Pet at a Healthy Weight

Nearly 50% of adult dogs and cats in the United States are overweight or obese. Obesity increases the risk for other serious health problems. Follow your veterinarian’s advic...

Kenneling Your Cat

Even being in the best kennel is stressful for many cats. If your cat does not tolerate boarding well, consider using a pet sitter or arranging for your cat to stay in a room at a fr...

Kidney Disease in Pets

Kidney disease is a very general term used to describe any one of several conditions that can affect the kidneys or damage kidney cells. Clinical signs associated with kidney dis...

Kitten or Adult Cat: Which Is Right for You?

Americans own more than 90 million cats. Approximately 4 million homeless pets (cats and dogs) are euthanized each year; adopting your cat from a local animal shelter will help save a l...

Kitten Socialization

Socialization is the learning process through which kittens become accustomed to being near various people, animals, and environments. Proper socialization can help eliminate behavior p...

Lick Granuloma

A lick granuloma is a thickened, hairless area of skin that results from excessive, repetitive licking or chewing. Signs of a lick granuloma include brown-stained hair around the lesion...

Lipoma

A lipoma is a benign (noncancerous) mass made of fat cells. These lumps may appear just under the skin anywhere on the body or inside the chest and abdomen. Middle-aged and older fe...

Litterbox Training Your Cat

Cats are usually easy to litterbox train because they prefer to bury their waste. Cats may refuse to use the litterbox if something about it is unappealing. If you are having trouble litterbox ...

Medical Causes of Weight Loss

A variety of medical conditions can cause weight loss. Weight loss is not a disease—it is a sign of an illness. Therefore, the treatment for weight loss depends on the underlying cause....

Medication Monitoring

Medication monitoring can help ensure that your pet is not experiencing unwanted side effects from a medication. It can also tell your veterinarian whether the medication may need to...

Microchipping Your Pet

Many lost pets are never returned to their owners because they do not have any form of identification. Microchips are a way of permanently identifying your pet. Microchips mu...

Neutering

Neutering is a surgical procedure in which the testicles are removed in a male animal. Neutering prevents unwanted reproduction and can help eliminate negative behavioral effects of mal...

Non-recognition Aggression in Cats

Non-recognition aggression occurs when one cat is uncharacteristically aggressive toward a companion cat after a period of separation. Never let your cats “fight it out.” Interru...

Obesity in Pets: Tipping the Scale in Your Favor

Approximately half of the pets in the United States are either overweight or obese. The health consequences of obesity include increased risk for joint disease, heart and respiratory proble...

OraVet' Dental Sealant

OraVet Dental Sealant is an invisible, polymer sealant that is applied to your pet’s teeth by your veterinarian after a dental cleaning. The sealant adheres to teeth to create an invisi...

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation occurs when the pet’s patella (kneecap) slips out of its normal position on the femur bone, causing pain, lameness, and instability in the knee. Severity of patellar l...

Periodontal Disease in Cats

More than 85% of cats over 4 years of age have periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a progressive inflammation of the supporting structures around the teeth. Signs of periodo...

Pet Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

If your pet has a cardiac arrest, you can help save his or her life by performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). By distributing much-needed oxygen and blood throughout a p...

Pet Health Insurance: What's Right for Your Pet?

Pet insurance can help you budget for unforeseen medical expenses for your pet. It’s important to take a hard look at your budget and decide what you need in an insurance policy. “B...

Pet Sitter Instructions

To help ensure that your pet is properly cared for, give your pet sitter detailed written instructions, and discuss them with the sitter. Make sure the sitter knows the dates of coverag...

Pet Toy Safety

To keep your pet safe, it’s important to know about pet toy hazards and how to avoid them. If you are worried about the safety of your pet’s toys, talk to your veterinarian. ...

Phenobarbital Level Test

Phenobarbital is a medication that is used to control and prevent seizures. Pets requiring a phenobarbital level test need to have a blood sample drawn at the hospital. The test mea...

Physical Examination and Feline Distemper Combination Vaccine

Cats often hide their illnesses, so physical examination by your veterinarian can help determine if your cat is sick. Regular physical examinations by your veterinarian are recommended ...

Physical Examination and Feline Infectious Peritonitis Vaccine

Cats tend to hide their illnesses, so physical examination by your veterinarian can help determine if your cat is sick. Regular physical examinations are recommended for all pet cats. ...

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Physical therapy and rehabilitation involve the use of therapeutic exercises to help patients recover from acute and chronic health conditions resulting from illness, trauma, or surgery. ...

Pneumonia in Cats

When the lungs are infected or inflamed, fluid and other material can accumulate, resulting in pneumonia. A variety of bacterial, viral, and fungal organisms can cause pneumonia in cats...

Pregnancy in Cats

In cats, pregnancy lasts for 56 to 79 days, or approximately 9 weeks. Pregnancy is determined by feeling (palpating) the developing kittens in the abdomen or by radiography (x-ra...

Preventing Heartworms and Fleas

Heartworms and fleas are parasites that can cause serious problems. Fortunately, these parasites can be prevented by using safe, effective, and easy-to-administer medications. Heartworm...

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that compete with harmful bacteria to restore the proper bacterial balance in the intestines of dogs and cats. Probiotics are administered when...

Pyoderma

Pyoderma is a bacterial infection of the skin. It varies in severity from a superficial rash to deep, pus-filled ulcerations. Problems that can lead to pyoderma include parasites, a...

Pyometra

Pyometra is a severe bacterial infection of the uterus that can be life threatening. It can occur in any unspayed female cat or dog. Older, unspayed female dogs that have not had a lit...

Rabies

Rabies is a deadly disease that is generally fatal in all species. It is transmitted through contact with saliva of an infected animal. There is no effective treatment in animals. I...

Refilling Medications

Remembering to refill prescriptions on time helps protect your pet’s safety and health. Some veterinarians require 24 hours’ notice for prescription refills, so be sure to allow enough ...

Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin, hair, and/or nails in dogs and cats. It is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be transmitted from animals to humans. The infection i...

Rodenticide Poisoning

Many mouse and rat poisons contain ingredients that can be toxic and even fatal to your pet. These toxins may cause blood clotting problems, nervous system problems, or kidney failure. ...

Roundworms

Roundworms are parasites that live in the intestines of dogs and cats. Roundworm infections can be transmitted from animals to humans. Depending on the type of roundworm, pets can b...

Selecting a Groomer

Groomers are not regulated or licensed by a government agency. When looking for a groomer, seek recommendations from friends, veterinarians, trainers, and boarding facilities. When ...

Selecting a New Kitten

Take your time when deciding whether a kitten is right for you. The kitten you choose may be with you for 10 to 20 years or more. For best social development, a kitten should rem...

Skin Problems and Your Pet

A variety of skin problems can affect dogs and cats, including allergies, bacterial and fungal infections, and parasite infestations. The signs of skin problems in pets can be very similar...

Spay Surgery

A spay is a surgical procedure in which the ovaries and uterus are surgically removed. Spaying prevents unwanted pregnancy and discontinues heat cycles. Spaying may also be p...

Spaying or Neutering Your Pet

Spaying and neutering are surgical procedures to remove reproductive organs. These procedures are typically recommended for puppies and kittens before they reach sexual maturity ...

Summer Hazards and Your Cat

When temperatures outside reach dangerous levels, the temperature inside the house can, too. Keep fresh water available, and make sure your cat has a cool place to spend the day. Bring ...

Tapeworms

Tapeworms are long, flat, parasitic worms that live in the intestines of dogs and cats. Pets generally become infected by ingesting fleas that contain tapeworm larvae during grooming. ...

The Wellness Examination

A wellness exam is an overall general health assessmentthat may include blood tests, urinalysis, and parasite screening. A wellness exam is recommended for most pets at least ann...

Thyroid Level Test/Thyroid Profile Tests/Feline Hyperthyroidism

Feline hyperthyroidism is a disorder caused by the production of too much thyroid hormone by one of both of the thyroid glands. Diagnosis of feline hyperthyroidism is made by evaluation...

Ticks and Your Cat

Ticks can transmit dangerous diseases, like cytauxzoonosis, when they attach to a cat and feed. Your veterinarian can recommend safe and effective products to help protect your cat from...

Traveling With Your Cat

Bring enough of your cat’s regular food and medication for the duration of the trip. If you plan to travel with your pet, let your veterinarian know ahead of time; your cat may need a h...

Treating Heartworm Disease

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition that damages the heart, lungs, and related blood vessels. Dogs and cats are at risk for becoming infected with heartworms....

Trimming Your Cat's Nails

Nail trimming should be a calm, stress-free experience for you and your cat. If your cat experiences pain from nail trimming, you will probably have trouble trimming his or her n...

Understanding Pet Food Labels

Understanding pet food labels is the first step in choosing the right food to help make an optimal nutritional plan for a pet. Animals require specific nutrients from the ingredients in...

Urinalysis and Early Kidney Disease Detection

In kidney disease, the kidneys do not function properly. Acute (sudden) kidney disease may be reversible, but chronic (long-term) kidney disease is usually progressive, meaning t...

Urinary Tract Disease in Cats

Urinary tract disease is a very general term used to describe any one of several conditions that can affect any part of the urinary tract. Clinical signs associated with urinary tract d...

Urine Culture Test

A urine culture test is done to identify the specific bacteria that are causing a urinary tract infection. Ideally, a sample of urine is collected by cystocentesis in which a nee...

Urine Specific Gravity Test

The urine specific gravity (SG) test tells your veterinarian how concentrated your pet’s urine is (how much water it contains). Collecting a urine sample for SG measurement can be done ...

Vaccine-Associated Sarcomas in Cats

Vaccine-associated sarcomas are cancerous tumors that occur at vaccination sites in cats. Approximately 1 to 2 out of every 10,000 vaccinated cats develop this condition. Your cat s...

Vestibular Disease

Vestibular disease is a medical condition that affects the nervous system. Clinical signs of vestibular disease include incoordination (instability when trying to stand or walk),...

Vomiting

Vomiting is the forceful emptying of the stomach. If vomiting is prolonged, it can lead to dehydration. Vomiting can be associated with several medical conditions ranging from motio...

Weight Check

A weight check is the measurement of your pet’s weight and the evaluation of your pet’s body condition. A weight check should be performed at every veterinary examination and any...

When to Consider Euthanasia

Euthanasia is the painless, humane termination of life. The decision regarding when to euthanize is fraught with medical, financial, ethical, religious, moral, and sometimes lega...

Why Do I Need To Vaccinate My Pet?

Vaccination is an important weapon against infectious diseases. Some diseases, like rabies, are transmissible to humans, so protecting your pets also protects your family members and co...

Winter Hazards and Your Cat

Cats are attracted to the sweet smell and taste of antifreeze, but if eaten, this toxin can quickly cause kidney failure. Outdoor cats depend on people for their warmth and survi...

Your Pet's Prescribed Diet

If your pet is on a prescribed diet, keeping him or her on that diet is essential for the best possible health and quality of life. Your veterinarian has carefully selected your pet’s p...