Mental health discussions have been at the forefront of many professions, because employees everywhere have been struggling since the COVID-19 pandemic. Like all professions that focus on caring for others, veterinary medicine is emotionally and mentally draining, and veterinary professionals are challenged to maintain good mental health. Veterinary employees experience high levels of stress, compassion [...]
As a caring pet owner, you understand blood work and other diagnostic testings’ value when your dog or cat is sick, but routine wellness screenings may seem unnecessary—especially when your pet is healthy, and their previous results have always been negative or normal. Rather than consider your pet’s annual testing as an expense, view these [...]
Most cats develop arthritis to some degree as they age, but many compensate for or hide their pain so well that caregivers miss the changes. Sixty percent of cats show arthritis evidence on exam or X-ray by 6 years old, and 90% by 12 years old. This highly prevalent disease is a degenerative, chronic, progressive, [...]
Arthritis is one of the most common, painful conditions in adult and senior pets, although younger pets are also affected. Despite being so common, arthritis can be difficult to detect and is often mistakenly attributed to normal aging. Arthritis cannot be reversed or cured, but can be managed. The earlier our University Veterinary Hospital team [...]
Your pet is a part of the family and an integral part of your life. Through the highs and lows, your pet has been there providing comfort and unconditional love. Now your senior pet is nearing the end of their life, and it’s your turn to provide them with the same comfort and love. But, [...]
Seizures in pets are not uncommon, although these episodes can be extremely upsetting to witness your own pet experiencing. As a manifestation of abnormal brain activity, seizures occur for a variety of reasons. Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common cause, and other causes include electrolyte imbalances, toxicity, hypoglycemia, brain tumors, head trauma, metabolic disease, or [...]
An indoor-only lifestyle protects cats from numerous health and safety hazards, but such a restricted lifestyle can have its downsides, too. Indoor cats are more likely to experience inactivity and stress-related health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, urinary tract disorders, anxiety, and behavior problems. Help your cat lead a healthy and satisfying life indoors by [...]
Chronic ear infections are uncomfortable for pets, frustrating for owners, and troubling for veterinarians. If your pet’s ear infection seemingly never goes away despite treatment, or returns after only a short time, an underlying cause may be to blame. And, until that cause is determined, treating the inflammation and infection will continue to provide only [...]
Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) refers to several conditions that commonly affect a cat’s urinary tract, and can cause serious health complications in affected cats. Our team at University Veterinary Hospital wants to help by providing information about this concerning issue and explaining ways you can minimize your cat’s risk. Feline lower urinary tract [...]
Crash! Boom! Whether a thunder clap or an exploding firework, sudden noises can make anyone jump. But, some dogs and cats experience intense distress and fear when they hear a loud sound—a condition that can put them at risk for dangerous behavior and negatively affect their quality of life. If your pet shakes during a [...]