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A reader wanted to know just how much playtime her cat really needs. I’m glad she asked this question, because most cats I see as a veterinarian aren’t even coming close to the minimum, let alone the optimal, amount of play that they need to be happy and healthy! Here’s what I told her. Q: […]

If your cat has hyperthyroidism, the cause may be flame retardants in the environment. Feline hyperthyroidism, first diagnosed in 1979, is the most common endocrine disease in older cats. In the 40 years since that first case was diagnosed, the prevalence of the disease has risen dramatically. Scientists suspected a link to household flame retardants, […]

When you think something’s wrong with your dog or cat, the first thing you do is Google the symptoms. Are we right? We bet we are. Studies show that 3 out of 4 people go to the internet before calling their veterinarians or taking their pets to the clinic. We understand. If you’re worried about […]

If your dog’s itching is driving both of you crazy, here’s some information that can help! If you’ve ever had poison oak or ivy, you know how infuriating, stressful, and even painful itching can be. Your dog’s itch isn’t because of those plants, however. The top tip I have, based on my 40 years as […]

Do dogs’ personalities vary depending on their coat color? That’s what a reader asked, and here’s what science tells us about the answer. Q: I’ve heard that Labs have different personalities depending on their color. Is that true? A: That’s a persistent myth about many breeds, including Labrador retrievers. For instance, chocolate Labs are thought […]