Part of being a responsible cat owner is knowing how to recognize when something isn’t right. While the thought of your beloved companion getting sick is a frightening one, no cat is immune to illness. Even if you are a perfect pet parent and do everything right when caring for your cat, they could suffer from a wide range of health problems.

With Christmas behind us and the New Year on the horizon, you’ve likely been thinking about your goals for 2022. While you’re dialing in those New Year’s resolutions, why not consider setting some goals for your feline friend, too? The dawning of a new year is an excellent time to establish habits that will benefit your cat for the rest of their life.

Pets and kids are a natural combination. You may have even grown up with a few furry family members yourself. Pets provide companionship and comfort, and they can help kids develop responsibility, empathy, and compassion. In most cases, raising kids and animals together benefits families in many ways.

The holiday season is in full swing, and if you are like most folks, you’ve likely been spending lots of time making your list and checking it twice. If you haven’t crossed your feline family member off your gift list yet, we’re here to help you find a fantastic feline-friendly present. As veterinarians, we want you and your cat to have a fun and festive holiday season free from unexpected mishaps. That’s why we decided to share a few of our top picks for fun and safe toys for cats. Let’s jump right in!

There’s no denying that sending your feline family member in for surgery is frightening. Whether it’s a routine procedure— like a spay or neuter — or something much more complex, a bit of anxiety is normal when your pet needs an operation.

Lace up your boots, pack up some trail mix and water, and get ready to hit the trail because November 17th is National Take a Hike Day. This annual event is a perfect time to get out and enjoy some fresh air. Whether you travel to a renowned hiking destination or spend the day exploring the wilderness a bit closer to home, there’s no need to leave your furry friends behind. And if you think this type of outing is only suitable for dogs, think again! With proper planning, you can take your feline friend out for a hike, too.

There’s nothing quite as exciting as bringing home a new bundle of joy — especially when it’s a furry one! Adding a kitten to your family is a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to remember that a new home filled with brand-new sights, sounds, and smells can be frightening for a tiny kitten. After all, your new baby likely just left behind their mother, a litter of playful siblings, and the only home they have ever known.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to make the transition a bit easier.

Vaccinating your cat is the best way to protect them from a wide range of contagious — and potentially deadly — diseases. From Rabies to Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, your feline friend could fall victim to many illnesses if you fail to keep them up to date on essential vaccines. Even if you keep your cat strictly indoors, it’s vital to keep their vaccinations updated. It only takes seconds for a cat to slip out a door or window, and if mice or other pests find their way into your home, you never know what types of diseases they could be carrying.