Frequently Asked Questions - Feline Health
Growing library of feline-specific FAQs covering a variety of cat-specific health topics for cats. Please see All Disease & Parasite FAQs for additional articles on a variety of topics.
Feline Urination Question: Help - My Cat is Using the House as his Litter Box
A viewer asks for help with her cat, urinating in the sun room instead of the litter box. They recently moved to a new house, and while frustrating, this is fairly a common problem. Here are some tips to get the cat back to the box as everyone gets comfortable in the new surroundings.
A viewer asks for help with her cat, urinating in the sun room instead of the litter box. They recently moved to a new house, and while frustrating, this is fairly a common problem. Here are some tips to get the cat back to the box as everyone gets comfortable in the new surroundings.
Tips to reduce cat stress in the car and at the vet
It's safe to say that most cats don't travel by car very often. The most common car trip is usually to the vet, and that event causes enough anxiety by itself. Getting stressed out by the car ride to the vet may make it difficult to tell what is "normal" and what is stress-related on the physical exam. Here are some tips to reduce travel stress to the vet's office and beyond.
It's safe to say that most cats don't travel by car very often. The most common car trip is usually to the vet, and that event causes enough anxiety by itself. Getting stressed out by the car ride to the vet may make it difficult to tell what is "normal" and what is stress-related on the physical exam. Here are some tips to reduce travel stress to the vet's office and beyond.
How is a declaw surgery performed?
The decision to declaw your cat, especially a cat older than 6 months, should not be taken lightly. The intent of this FAQ is not to endorse declawing, but rather provide information about the techniques commonly utilized. Being informed and discussing the pros and cons with your veterinarian is helpful for the decision-making process. It may surprise some people to learn that there are a few different ways to declaw a cat. Read this FAQ to learn the basic differences in techniques.
The decision to declaw your cat, especially a cat older than 6 months, should not be taken lightly. The intent of this FAQ is not to endorse declawing, but rather provide information about the techniques commonly utilized. Being informed and discussing the pros and cons with your veterinarian is helpful for the decision-making process. It may surprise some people to learn that there are a few different ways to declaw a cat. Read this FAQ to learn the basic differences in techniques.
Stressed Out Cats
Despite the laid-back outward appearance (i.e. frequent cat naps) of many cats, having a "stressed out" cat is not something most owners worry about. That said, cats can become stressed by many things. Just what stresses cats out is not always obvious, and stress may manifest in many forms. Read this article to learn about cat stress and find out ways to keep your cat calm.
Despite the laid-back outward appearance (i.e. frequent cat naps) of many cats, having a "stressed out" cat is not something most owners worry about. That said, cats can become stressed by many things. Just what stresses cats out is not always obvious, and stress may manifest in many forms. Read this article to learn about cat stress and find out ways to keep your cat calm.
Stressed Out Cats
Despite the laid-back outward appearance (i.e. frequent cat naps) of many cats, having a "stressed out" cat is not something most owners worry about. That said, cats can become stressed by many things. Just what stresses cats out is not always obvious, and stress may manifest in many forms. Read this article to learn about cat stress and find out ways to keep your cat calm.
Despite the laid-back outward appearance (i.e. frequent cat naps) of many cats, having a "stressed out" cat is not something most owners worry about. That said, cats can become stressed by many things. Just what stresses cats out is not always obvious, and stress may manifest in many forms. Read this article to learn about cat stress and find out ways to keep your cat calm.
What Is A Cuterebra Parasite?
A Cuterebra parasite is an opportunistic parasite found under the skin of small mammals. This parasite is the larval stage of the Cuterebra fly, who uses animal hosts to complete its life cycle. Learn more about this parasite most commonly seen in summer and fall in this FAQ.
A Cuterebra parasite is an opportunistic parasite found under the skin of small mammals. This parasite is the larval stage of the Cuterebra fly, who uses animal hosts to complete its life cycle. Learn more about this parasite most commonly seen in summer and fall in this FAQ.
What are the best methods to control fleas on my pet and in my house?
Fleas have a complex, 4 stage life cycle. Control of fleas on your pet and in your home must address all stages of this life cycle to stop the problem of flea infestation. This article will cover several different methods that are effective at controlling fleas when used properly.
Fleas have a complex, 4 stage life cycle. Control of fleas on your pet and in your home must address all stages of this life cycle to stop the problem of flea infestation. This article will cover several different methods that are effective at controlling fleas when used properly.
What is the life and life cycle of the flea, and why is flea control so difficult?
Fleas. They make pets' lives miserable, and humans begin to itch just at the thought of them. Vets are often asked what pill, drop, dip, collar, or shampoo works the best to get rid of these persistent parasites. The answer is that there is no single method or insecticide that will completely eradicate (or at least control) a flea problem. The flea life cycle is fairly complex, and understanding the various stages will make it easier to get rid of them.
Fleas. They make pets' lives miserable, and humans begin to itch just at the thought of them. Vets are often asked what pill, drop, dip, collar, or shampoo works the best to get rid of these persistent parasites. The answer is that there is no single method or insecticide that will completely eradicate (or at least control) a flea problem. The flea life cycle is fairly complex, and understanding the various stages will make it easier to get rid of them.
Is it OK to vaccinate my pet if she is pregnant or nursing?
Is it OK to vaccinate your pet if she is pregnant or may be pregnant? What about if she is nursing? Will the kittens or puppies be harmed? The answers to these questions can vary, and it is not always as simple as yes or no. Read this FAQ to find out the safest basic guidelines.
Is it OK to vaccinate your pet if she is pregnant or may be pregnant? What about if she is nursing? Will the kittens or puppies be harmed? The answers to these questions can vary, and it is not always as simple as yes or no. Read this FAQ to find out the safest basic guidelines.
What is a recombinant vaccine, and how does it work?
Learn how has veterinary vaccination medicine changed and improved over the years. Recombinant technology allows for safer vaccination for our pets with less risk of disease or allergic reaction and better protection from natural disease.
Learn how has veterinary vaccination medicine changed and improved over the years. Recombinant technology allows for safer vaccination for our pets with less risk of disease or allergic reaction and better protection from natural disease.
The Fallacy of Titer Tests
Guest author Will Falconer, DVM, a Certified Veterinary Homeopath, discusses pet vaccinations and vaccine titers.
Guest author Will Falconer, DVM, a Certified Veterinary Homeopath, discusses pet vaccinations and vaccine titers.
Euthanasia - How Will I know When It Is "Time" To Put A Pet To Sleep?
Having to make the decision to end a pet's life is never easy. How to evaluate "quality of life", and make a decision that that won't be filled with regret and guilt.
Having to make the decision to end a pet's life is never easy. How to evaluate "quality of life", and make a decision that that won't be filled with regret and guilt.
Frequently Asked Question: Why does my dog (or cat) eat grass?
Many people ask why their dog eats grass. The reasons can vary from they like the taste to possibly an empty or upset stomach.
Many people ask why their dog eats grass. The reasons can vary from they like the taste to possibly an empty or upset stomach.
Why won't my vet just refill my pet's regular medication without an exam or blood test?
Pet owners commonly ask why they can't get a medication refilled for their pet without an examination. Whether for a recurring infection or a chronic condition that requires medication, your vet will likely want to see your pet on a regular basis prior to dispensing medication. Read this FAQ to learn the reasons why a check-in with the vet is required in most cases.
Pet owners commonly ask why they can't get a medication refilled for their pet without an examination. Whether for a recurring infection or a chronic condition that requires medication, your vet will likely want to see your pet on a regular basis prior to dispensing medication. Read this FAQ to learn the reasons why a check-in with the vet is required in most cases.
What is an ectopic ovary?
Veterinary Quesstion - A viewer asks: what is an ectopic ovary?
Veterinary Quesstion - A viewer asks: what is an ectopic ovary?
My pet was spayed, but now looks as if she is in heat. How can this be?
This FAQ is taken from the Veterinary Medicine forum, where NIGHTSTARR1221 asks: "Our female dog was spayed when she was 4-5 months old. She is now 1-1/2 years old and bleeding; our male dog keeps trying to mate with her. The vet told my husband that sometimes this happens and that the way the dogs uterus is sometimes they miss an ovary and have to go back in. I cannot see that this is possible if they removed the uterus. Does anyone know if this is possible?"
This FAQ is taken from the Veterinary Medicine forum, where NIGHTSTARR1221 asks: "Our female dog was spayed when she was 4-5 months old. She is now 1-1/2 years old and bleeding; our male dog keeps trying to mate with her. The vet told my husband that sometimes this happens and that the way the dogs uterus is sometimes they miss an ovary and have to go back in. I cannot see that this is possible if they removed the uterus. Does anyone know if this is possible?"
My pet has bad breath. How can I care for my pet's teeth at home?
Ideally, your veterinarian should evaluate your pet's teeth and gums prior to starting at home dental care for your pet. A professional cleaning (and removal of any diseased teeth) will make home dental care easier and often with better long term success. This FAQ discusses different types of pet dental care products and where to find them.
Ideally, your veterinarian should evaluate your pet's teeth and gums prior to starting at home dental care for your pet. A professional cleaning (and removal of any diseased teeth) will make home dental care easier and often with better long term success. This FAQ discusses different types of pet dental care products and where to find them.
Is AIHA the same thing as Hemobartonella (Feline Infectious Anemia)?
Hemobartonella is a type of bacterial "parasite" (mycoplasma) that infects red blood cells to live and reproduce. Once the body's immune system finds this foreign invader, destruction of infected red blood cells begins, and anemia results. This is similar, but not the same, as auto immune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). Learn more in this FAQ.
Hemobartonella is a type of bacterial "parasite" (mycoplasma) that infects red blood cells to live and reproduce. Once the body's immune system finds this foreign invader, destruction of infected red blood cells begins, and anemia results. This is similar, but not the same, as auto immune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). Learn more in this FAQ.
What are the clinical signs seen with Ethylene Glycol (antifreeze) toxicity in dogs and cats?
Acute cases of antifreeze toxicity (when an animal consumes antifreeze) often present as if the animal is intoxicated with alcohol. This is an emergency situation, and life threatening within hours. Please see your veterinarian immediately. Success of treatment depends on quick treatment.
Acute cases of antifreeze toxicity (when an animal consumes antifreeze) often present as if the animal is intoxicated with alcohol. This is an emergency situation, and life threatening within hours. Please see your veterinarian immediately. Success of treatment depends on quick treatment.
What is Ringworm, and how do pets get it?
Ringworm is not a worm, it is a fungus that can infect the skin of animals and humans. Read this FAQ to learn more.
Ringworm is not a worm, it is a fungus that can infect the skin of animals and humans. Read this FAQ to learn more.
What is Fly Strike, also known as Myasis?
Flies are common in the warmer months, and lay eggs in dead tissue/rotting material, and the eggs develop into larvae that need to eat. They larvae eat the dead and rotting tissue, and look like small, white grub worms. They appear quite fast (8-12 hours), and will eat away tissue on your pet if the right conditions are present. Learn how to prevent this undesireable condition in your pet.
Flies are common in the warmer months, and lay eggs in dead tissue/rotting material, and the eggs develop into larvae that need to eat. They larvae eat the dead and rotting tissue, and look like small, white grub worms. They appear quite fast (8-12 hours), and will eat away tissue on your pet if the right conditions are present. Learn how to prevent this undesireable condition in your pet.
My pet is "not herself" lately. Should I watch her, or call the vet?
Learning what is "normal" and what isn't for your pets can be tricky at times. If your pet is not actively sick (vomiting, diarrhea) or injured (bleeding, limping), but not his or her normal bouncy self either, it is time to check in with your vet before becoming more serious.
Learning what is "normal" and what isn't for your pets can be tricky at times. If your pet is not actively sick (vomiting, diarrhea) or injured (bleeding, limping), but not his or her normal bouncy self either, it is time to check in with your vet before becoming more serious.
How to Give Your Dog or Cat a Flea Bath
How to get the most out of a flea bath, the start of a good flea control program. Not every itchy dog (or cat) has fleas, though. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian if your pet is itching or has inflammed skin before initiating treatment or special shampoos.
How to get the most out of a flea bath, the start of a good flea control program. Not every itchy dog (or cat) has fleas, though. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian if your pet is itching or has inflammed skin before initiating treatment or special shampoos.
Are prophylactic antibiotics a good idea for routine neuters or spays?
Should pets be given antibiotics for routine "healthy" surgeries such as spays and neuters? Read this FAQ (Frequently Asked Question) to find out.
Should pets be given antibiotics for routine "healthy" surgeries such as spays and neuters? Read this FAQ (Frequently Asked Question) to find out.
My cat urinated in the bathroom sink today. Should I be concerned?
Felines are known for urinary marking behaviors. Unpleasant as this is, one must ask if this behavior is normal, or does it warrant medical attention? Read this FAQ and find out.
Felines are known for urinary marking behaviors. Unpleasant as this is, one must ask if this behavior is normal, or does it warrant medical attention? Read this FAQ and find out.
Frequently Asked Question: Swollen paw -- should I wait and see, or call my vet?
Soft tissue swelling in an animal's paw may mean a few things: insect bite or sting, infection and abscession, or blunt tissue damage. First question to ask: is the paw painful? Learn more in this FAQ.
Soft tissue swelling in an animal's paw may mean a few things: insect bite or sting, infection and abscession, or blunt tissue damage. First question to ask: is the paw painful? Learn more in this FAQ.
Veterinary Q & A - Itching, Scratching, and Hair Loss in Dogs & Cats
Veterinary Q & A - Itching, Scratching, and Hair Loss. Why is my pet scratching, and how can it be helped?
Veterinary Q & A - Itching, Scratching, and Hair Loss. Why is my pet scratching, and how can it be helped?
Is anesthesia necessary to do a dental cleaning on my pet?
Anesthesia is necessary to do a complete dental cleaning in pets. This includes full oral exam, treatment/removal of diseased teeth, removal of plaque and tartar, and finally polishing the teeth.
Anesthesia is necessary to do a complete dental cleaning in pets. This includes full oral exam, treatment/removal of diseased teeth, removal of plaque and tartar, and finally polishing the teeth.
My cat's paw is a bit swollen and she is licking it. Should I wait and see, or call my vet?
As with any injury, there are so many variables involved -- age, weight, species/breed of animal, and the type of impact or injury that caused the lameness. This article will not offer a way to self-diagnose what is wrong if your pet is lame. Rather, the purpose of this article is to help pet owners identify when an injury is an emergency or if it can wait a bit for observation at home.
As with any injury, there are so many variables involved -- age, weight, species/breed of animal, and the type of impact or injury that caused the lameness. This article will not offer a way to self-diagnose what is wrong if your pet is lame. Rather, the purpose of this article is to help pet owners identify when an injury is an emergency or if it can wait a bit for observation at home.
My senior cat has been drooling and not grooming as much. Could it be a bad tooth?
For a cat still active for his age but showing signs of drooling and sporting an unkempt hair coat, a thorough oral exam is necessary. While diseased gums and or teeth are always a possibility, other conditions must be ruled out. Learn more in this FAQ.
For a cat still active for his age but showing signs of drooling and sporting an unkempt hair coat, a thorough oral exam is necessary. While diseased gums and or teeth are always a possibility, other conditions must be ruled out. Learn more in this FAQ.
Tips and tools for home dental care for pets
Now that your pet has been examined by your vet and the teeth have been professionally cleaned (if necessary), what's next? These tips will help you find the best "tools" and techniques for your pet's dental needs.
Now that your pet has been examined by your vet and the teeth have been professionally cleaned (if necessary), what's next? These tips will help you find the best "tools" and techniques for your pet's dental needs.
Is my pet acting this way due to old age or is he sick?
Changes happen as pets age, similar to the changes seen as people age. Sight and hearing may be diminished, pets may sleep more, and so on. These are expected changes. However, people often miss potentially serious signs of illness in their pets by writing off symptoms as "just old age" when a veterinary exam is in order. This FAQ outlines what to watch for as your pet enters the senior years.
Changes happen as pets age, similar to the changes seen as people age. Sight and hearing may be diminished, pets may sleep more, and so on. These are expected changes. However, people often miss potentially serious signs of illness in their pets by writing off symptoms as "just old age" when a veterinary exam is in order. This FAQ outlines what to watch for as your pet enters the senior years.
Why does my pet itch and scratch so much?
Pets itch, scratch, bite, and lick themselves for many reasons. Some of the more common itch-inciting causes include: skin parasites, bacterial or fungal skin infections, stress or boredom, contact irritants and inhalant allergies. This FAQ examines inhalant allergies, otherwise known as atopy.
Pets itch, scratch, bite, and lick themselves for many reasons. Some of the more common itch-inciting causes include: skin parasites, bacterial or fungal skin infections, stress or boredom, contact irritants and inhalant allergies. This FAQ examines inhalant allergies, otherwise known as atopy.
What are the signs seen with a urinary tract infection?
Urinary problems are commonly seen in dogs and cats. Symptoms can range from "obviously sick" to very few signs seen, depending on the length and severity of infection. Being familiar with possible warning signs could help save your pet's life. Learn more in this FAQ entry.
Urinary problems are commonly seen in dogs and cats. Symptoms can range from "obviously sick" to very few signs seen, depending on the length and severity of infection. Being familiar with possible warning signs could help save your pet's life. Learn more in this FAQ entry.
Dealing with guilt -- did I do everything I could?
Pets depend on us for food and shelter and cannot directly tell us how they feel, so when something happens to our pet (i.e. illness, accident, death), the feelings of "letting our pet down" often turn to feelings of guilt and anger or denial. What can be done to ease the guilt when we are feeling low? Read this FAQ for some tips on dealing with grief and guilt.
Pets depend on us for food and shelter and cannot directly tell us how they feel, so when something happens to our pet (i.e. illness, accident, death), the feelings of "letting our pet down" often turn to feelings of guilt and anger or denial. What can be done to ease the guilt when we are feeling low? Read this FAQ for some tips on dealing with grief and guilt.
Just the Facts: Anal Sacs
Learning to observe what is normal and and what is not in animals that can't talk takes time and patience. The purpose of this FAQ is to serve as a basic guideline to know when to consult your vet to see if an examination is in order. Questions about scooting are common. Learn reasons why your pet may scoot in this FAQ.
Learning to observe what is normal and and what is not in animals that can't talk takes time and patience. The purpose of this FAQ is to serve as a basic guideline to know when to consult your vet to see if an examination is in order. Questions about scooting are common. Learn reasons why your pet may scoot in this FAQ.
My pet is needs to be seen by a vet, but is afraid of the car. What should I do?
Sometimes pet owners are unsure if they should take their pet to the vet. Other times, they know that their pet needs to be seen by their vet, but worry that the car trip stress will make their pet worse. IF your pet is truly sick or injured, the need to be seen as soon as possible outweighs the unpleasantness of the car ride. Here are some tips to help determine when a vet visit is necessary.
Sometimes pet owners are unsure if they should take their pet to the vet. Other times, they know that their pet needs to be seen by their vet, but worry that the car trip stress will make their pet worse. IF your pet is truly sick or injured, the need to be seen as soon as possible outweighs the unpleasantness of the car ride. Here are some tips to help determine when a vet visit is necessary.
My Kitten Swallowed A String - When Will Clinical Signs Appear?
This FAQ answers a forum post from a viewer who is aware of the dangers of string ingestion, but is wondering when signs will show up if string is in the gastrointestinal tract. This FAQ is a companion piece to the "My cat was playing with a string, then ate it. Is this a problem?" FAQ.
This FAQ answers a forum post from a viewer who is aware of the dangers of string ingestion, but is wondering when signs will show up if string is in the gastrointestinal tract. This FAQ is a companion piece to the "My cat was playing with a string, then ate it. Is this a problem?" FAQ.
Make sure your pet gets the correct medications while you are away
Pet owners get in a routine with their pets, and it becomes automatic to give vitamins, arthritis medications, and any other reqularly required treatments. Here is a quick tip to ensure the routine continues if your pet is in a kennel or under a petsitter's care.
Pet owners get in a routine with their pets, and it becomes automatic to give vitamins, arthritis medications, and any other reqularly required treatments. Here is a quick tip to ensure the routine continues if your pet is in a kennel or under a petsitter's care.
Feline Physiology and Anatomy Facts
What is a "normal" heart rate for your cat? How long are cats pregnant for? Does a body temperature of 102.5F mean that your cat has a fever? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this article.
What is a "normal" heart rate for your cat? How long are cats pregnant for? Does a body temperature of 102.5F mean that your cat has a fever? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this article.
My pet is terrified of the vet. What are some tips to help my pet?
Many times pet owners put off going to the vet because their pet gets very stressed, or in some cases, agressive, when faced with the carrier, the car ride and the veterinary office. If the visit involves the difficult decision about putting a pet to sleep (euthanasia), many pet owners want to avoid the unfamiliar or stressful time at the veterinary office. Here are some tips to help reduce veterinary office stress.
Many times pet owners put off going to the vet because their pet gets very stressed, or in some cases, agressive, when faced with the carrier, the car ride and the veterinary office. If the visit involves the difficult decision about putting a pet to sleep (euthanasia), many pet owners want to avoid the unfamiliar or stressful time at the veterinary office. Here are some tips to help reduce veterinary office stress.
What is the pancreas, and why is it needed?
Most everyone has heard the anatomical term "pancreas", but just what is the pancreas, anyway? What is the function of the pancreas, and what happens when it isn't working properly? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this FAQ.
Most everyone has heard the anatomical term "pancreas", but just what is the pancreas, anyway? What is the function of the pancreas, and what happens when it isn't working properly? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this FAQ.
Clean out that medicine cabinet - safely dispose of expired medications
Time flies, and it is easy to "save this medication for later" only to find it is a few years out of date when you check it again. Learn why you should not used expired medications for your pet (or you) and how to safely dispose of old medications.
Time flies, and it is easy to "save this medication for later" only to find it is a few years out of date when you check it again. Learn why you should not used expired medications for your pet (or you) and how to safely dispose of old medications.
Quick Tip - Protect your pet against Cheat Grass and Foxtail!
Late summer is the time to be on alert for various "invaders" from the plant world. As grasses and weeds dry out and seeds begin to scatter, this can mean trouble for pets (and annoyances for people). Daily checks and quick removal are the key to preventing serious problems in the future.
Late summer is the time to be on alert for various "invaders" from the plant world. As grasses and weeds dry out and seeds begin to scatter, this can mean trouble for pets (and annoyances for people). Daily checks and quick removal are the key to preventing serious problems in the future.
Quick Tip - Protect your pet against Fly Strike (Myiasis)
Late summer is the most common time of year to see Fly Strike (Myasis). This unpleasant problem is caused when flies lay their eggs on diseased tissue or drainage of living animals and maggots are born. Maggots are the larve (immature form) of flies, and can cause very serious health problems for the host animal.
Late summer is the most common time of year to see Fly Strike (Myasis). This unpleasant problem is caused when flies lay their eggs on diseased tissue or drainage of living animals and maggots are born. Maggots are the larve (immature form) of flies, and can cause very serious health problems for the host animal.
Is this post abodominal (spay) surgery lump "normal"?
A question that is commonly asked after a routine spay surgery is: "should I be concerned about the lump in the incision area?" This is especially true for cats. Is a post-operative swelling "normal" or cause for concern? This FAQ cannot offer a diagnosis or treatment, but will point out some common findings and when a call to your vet is warranted.
A question that is commonly asked after a routine spay surgery is: "should I be concerned about the lump in the incision area?" This is especially true for cats. Is a post-operative swelling "normal" or cause for concern? This FAQ cannot offer a diagnosis or treatment, but will point out some common findings and when a call to your vet is warranted.
What to expect after your pet's dental or surgical procedure
Most veterinarians send home printed handouts after an anesthetic procedure detailing the pet's post-procedure care. This is helpful because in the busy discharge time of most clinics, coupled with excitement at seeing their pet, many owners don't hear all of the details or think of questions until after they are home. This article discusses general post-procedure care. Please call your veterinarian with specific questions about your pet's recovery.
Most veterinarians send home printed handouts after an anesthetic procedure detailing the pet's post-procedure care. This is helpful because in the busy discharge time of most clinics, coupled with excitement at seeing their pet, many owners don't hear all of the details or think of questions until after they are home. This article discusses general post-procedure care. Please call your veterinarian with specific questions about your pet's recovery.
What is Apathetic Hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is an endocrine disease that is very common in senior cats. This disease is caused by an overproduction of circulating thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. There are many possible clinical signs; animals will present a few or many of the signs. The most common signs seen in cases of hyperthyroidism are often absent in what is known as Apathetic Hyperthyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism is an endocrine disease that is very common in senior cats. This disease is caused by an overproduction of circulating thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. There are many possible clinical signs; animals will present a few or many of the signs. The most common signs seen in cases of hyperthyroidism are often absent in what is known as Apathetic Hyperthyroidism.
Where is the thyroid gland and what does it do?
Diseases of the thyroid gland are common in dogs and cats (humans, too). Dogs with thyroid disease are more commonly hypothyroid (underactive gland) and cats with thyroid disease are more commonly hyperthyroid (overactive gland). This article discusses thyroid anatomy, common conditions and treatment options for dogs and cats with thyroid disease.
Diseases of the thyroid gland are common in dogs and cats (humans, too). Dogs with thyroid disease are more commonly hypothyroid (underactive gland) and cats with thyroid disease are more commonly hyperthyroid (overactive gland). This article discusses thyroid anatomy, common conditions and treatment options for dogs and cats with thyroid disease.
How to Give Your Cat a Pill
Most cat owners have been faced with giving their cat a pill at sometime or another. Here are some tips to make the process easier for you and your cat.
Most cat owners have been faced with giving their cat a pill at sometime or another. Here are some tips to make the process easier for you and your cat.
Help - my cat has developed a strange fixation with voiding in our bathtub
Felines are known for urinary marking behaviors. This FAQ was created from a VetMed forum post asking why this young male cat has started voiding urine in the bathtub. This is an oft-repeated and very important topic, as urinary infections and blockages can be life-threatening. Familiarize yourself with the possible signs of this disease so you can help your cat (or dog!) at the earliest signs of trouble for the best possible outcome.
Felines are known for urinary marking behaviors. This FAQ was created from a VetMed forum post asking why this young male cat has started voiding urine in the bathtub. This is an oft-repeated and very important topic, as urinary infections and blockages can be life-threatening. Familiarize yourself with the possible signs of this disease so you can help your cat (or dog!) at the earliest signs of trouble for the best possible outcome.
From The Mailbag: Health Concerns For My Cat - George
Now and then I try to answer a typical question (or as is often the case, set of questions) in article form to help people understand why a diagnosis cannot be reached via email and the importance of a veterinary examination. This is an actual email from earlier this week.
Now and then I try to answer a typical question (or as is often the case, set of questions) in article form to help people understand why a diagnosis cannot be reached via email and the importance of a veterinary examination. This is an actual email from earlier this week.
My cat is going bald on her hind legs. Should I be concerned?
Hair loss can be occur in many different situations, including, but not limited to: poor nutrition, autoimmune disease, fungal infections, allergies and/or parasites. The most important thing to note is the skin condition - is the skin inflamed, crusty, "normal", or full of scabs? If your pet is experiencing hair loss of any kind, it is best to have it checked out to find out the underlying cause.
Hair loss can be occur in many different situations, including, but not limited to: poor nutrition, autoimmune disease, fungal infections, allergies and/or parasites. The most important thing to note is the skin condition - is the skin inflamed, crusty, "normal", or full of scabs? If your pet is experiencing hair loss of any kind, it is best to have it checked out to find out the underlying cause.
My cat really goes crazy over catnip, is it dangerous?
Catnip is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family Labiatae. Catnip is known in scientific nomenclature as "Nepeta cataria". The plant is a weed-like mint that is now native in North America and Canada after being introduced from its native Mediterranean soil. Some cats go crazy for catnip. Is it harmless? Read this FAQ to find out.
Catnip is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family Labiatae. Catnip is known in scientific nomenclature as "Nepeta cataria". The plant is a weed-like mint that is now native in North America and Canada after being introduced from its native Mediterranean soil. Some cats go crazy for catnip. Is it harmless? Read this FAQ to find out.
What Is Hepatic Lipidosis?
Hepatic Lipidosis is the medical term for Fatty Liver, seen most often in cats. Learn how this condition can occur and what cats are most at risk in this FAQ.
Hepatic Lipidosis is the medical term for Fatty Liver, seen most often in cats. Learn how this condition can occur and what cats are most at risk in this FAQ.
My senior cat has become a sloppy eater - why?
From the Veterinary Medicine Forum: MARKEMERSON asks: "We have an 18 year old cat. After he finishes eating, he will sit up, tilt his head to the side, and work his jaws and tongue as if he is trying to dislodge a piece of food caught in his teeth. He’ll continue this for about a minute or so, leaving big drops of saliva and food on the floor around his bowl. Any suggestions?"
From the Veterinary Medicine Forum: MARKEMERSON asks: "We have an 18 year old cat. After he finishes eating, he will sit up, tilt his head to the side, and work his jaws and tongue as if he is trying to dislodge a piece of food caught in his teeth. He’ll continue this for about a minute or so, leaving big drops of saliva and food on the floor around his bowl. Any suggestions?"
My cat was playing with a string, then ate it. Is this a problem?
String, yarn, and "fishing pole" type of cat toys are popular ways to interact with and excercise your cat, but if left unsupervised, your cat may ingest the string and cause potentially serious damage to the intestinal tract. Find out what to do if you suspect that your cat has eaten a string.
String, yarn, and "fishing pole" type of cat toys are popular ways to interact with and excercise your cat, but if left unsupervised, your cat may ingest the string and cause potentially serious damage to the intestinal tract. Find out what to do if you suspect that your cat has eaten a string.
My cat urinated on the bathroom rug. How can I stop this behavior?
Urinating in odd places (out of litter box) could be a medical problem (infection, crystal formation), a behavioral problem, or a combination of both. The goal of this FAQ is to help identify and differentiate feline urinary medical and behavioral issues.
Urinating in odd places (out of litter box) could be a medical problem (infection, crystal formation), a behavioral problem, or a combination of both. The goal of this FAQ is to help identify and differentiate feline urinary medical and behavioral issues.