The older pets live, the more likely they will experience cognitive dysfunction (i.e., a decrease in the brain’s ability to process information and perform normal tasks). Signs may begin as early as 10 years of age, and most pets older than 16 demonstrate at least one functional impairment sign. This syndrome in pets is often [...]

Although humans have lived alongside cats for centuries, we still run into problems understanding each other. Cat owners may view a cat’s need to scratch their furniture and carpets as a problem behavior that must be punished, but asking a cat to stop this instinctive and beneficial activity is an unrealistic expectation, and could harm [...]

Rodenticides are often used to help control pests, such as mice and rats, but these products can tempt your pet and potentially lead to a life-threatening toxicity. Our Providence Vet team wants to make a difference in your pet’s life, and we explain how rodenticides affect pets and provide tips to protect your four-legged friend. [...]

Hepatic lipidosis or fatty liver disease is a common and dangerous feline condition that occurs when cats stop eating for several days. Fortunately, rapid veterinary treatment can reverse this potentially fatal disorder. Use this guide compiled by the Providence Vet team to ensure you understand the risks and signs associated with hepatic lipidosis in cats. [...]

Itchy skin is a frequent problem for pets, and the condition can significantly impact their quality of life. If your pet has itchy skin, you need to find out what is causing the problem, so you can help your four-legged friend get relief. Read our Providence Vet team’s guide to the common reasons that may [...]

Lyme disease is a serious threat on the East Coast and is becoming more of a concern westward as the climate and tick habitat change. Since Lyme disease can cause severe, lifelong effects, prevention is crucial for protecting your pet. The best way to defend your furry pal against the threat of Lyme disease is [...]

Your cat may seem to live a luxurious life filled with sunbeams, scratching posts, and easy meals, but you might be surprised to learn how easily minute household changes can stress your cat. Most cats can tolerate a one-time stressor, but many stressors stacked over time can lead to behavioral or physical manifestations.  Stress is [...]

Pyometra is a serious uterine condition that occurs most commonly in older, intact (i.e., unspayed) female dogs. However, pyometra can also affect unspayed cats, hamsters, ferrets, guinea pigs, rats, and rabbits of any age. Pyometra is a life-threatening—but preventable—condition that our Providence Vet team wants you to learn about, so you can help your female [...]

Canine arthritis has been well recognized for many years. However, until recently, veterinary professionals believed cats were less likely to develop this painful, degenerative joint condition. Keep in mind that cats are pros at masking pain, and their owners are less likely than dog owners to bring them for routine wellness checkups, during which veterinarians [...]

Welcoming a homeless pet to your family can be a tremendously rewarding experience. When you adopt a shelter pet, you give that animal a new life by giving them a fur-ever home, and—in turn—you open shelter space for another animal who might desperately need it. Keep in mind, however, that pet adoption comes with challenges, [...]