Cats are often seen as independent and low-maintenance pets, but they are highly sensitive to changes in their environment. Stress in cats is more than just a mood shift; it can have a significant impact on their health and behavior. Understanding how stress affects your cat can help you create a calmer environment and keep… Continue reading How Stress Affects Your Cat’s Immune System and Behavior
Vaccinations are one of the most important aspects of preventive care for dogs. While puppy vaccinations get a lot of attention, adult dogs also require regular immunizations to stay protected against serious diseases. Understanding which vaccines are necessary and when to administer them helps keep your dog healthy throughout their life. Core Vaccines for Adult… Continue reading Vaccinations for Adult Dogs: What’s Necessary?
Pets face unique health challenges throughout the year. Just like humans, extreme temperatures and seasonal changes can affect their well-being. Understanding seasonal risks and taking preventive measures can keep your furry friends safe, comfortable, and healthy year-round. Summer Hazards and How to Protect Your Pet Heatstroke and Dehydration Hot weather can quickly lead to heatstroke,… Continue reading Seasonal Pet Care: Protecting Your Pet from Summer and Winter Hazards
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease, commonly known as FLUTD, is a term used to describe a group of conditions that affect a cat’s bladder and urethra. FLUTD is relatively common and can be very uncomfortable for cats. Understanding the signs, causes, and treatment options is essential for keeping your cat healthy and happy. Signs Your… Continue reading Understanding Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
Dogs rely on their skin not just for protection but also as a reflection of their overall health. Skin conditions are among the most common issues pet owners face, and understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments is key to keeping your dog comfortable and healthy. Common Skin Conditions in Dogs Hot Spots (Acute Moist Dermatitis)… Continue reading Skin Conditions in Dogs: Hot Spots, Dermatitis, and Treatment Options
As a pet owner, one of the most alarming situations you may face is a potential poisoning emergency. Pets are naturally curious, and sometimes that curiosity can lead them to ingest substances that are harmful or even life-threatening. Recognizing the signs early and acting quickly can make all the difference in your pet’s outcome. Signs… Continue reading How to Identify and Manage Pet Poisoning Emergencies
If your dog has ever experienced sudden vomiting, abdominal pain, or lethargy, you may have heard your veterinarian mention pancreatitis. This condition, which involves inflammation of the pancreas, has been appearing more frequently in dogs in recent years. One of the surprising culprits? Human food. At Norgate Animal Hospital, we often see cases where a… Continue reading Why Pancreatitis Is on the Rise in Dogs (and the Link to Human Foods)
If you’ve ever heard someone say, “That breed is aggressive” or “This breed is always gentle,” you’ve run into breed stereotypes. While certain breeds may have tendencies shaped by genetics, labeling an entire breed as aggressive or dangerous oversimplifies the truth. A dog’s (or cat’s) behavior is influenced by a mix of factors—genetics, environment, training,… Continue reading Do Breed Stereotypes Hold True? (Aggressive Breeds vs. Nurturing Environments)
It’s a scenario most pet owners have faced: your dog or cat suddenly starts limping, and you’re left wondering whether it’s just a small sprain from playtime or a sign of something more serious. Limping can be caused by many things, ranging from temporary soreness to underlying conditions that need immediate attention. Knowing how to… Continue reading How to Tell If Your Pet’s Limp Is Serious or Just Minor
As our pets age, we usually expect to see some physical changes—slower walks, longer naps, or perhaps a little stiffness in the mornings. But what many owners don’t realize is that pets, like people, can also experience cognitive decline as they grow older. This condition, often compared to dementia in humans, is more common than… Continue reading Signs of Cognitive Decline in Older Dogs and Cats (And What Can Help)
