Where you and your pet are family
Where you and your pet are family
Check out this wonderful video from Dr. Sarah Wooten, with important kitten care tips.
How do you know if my cat has allergies?
You can identify allergy symptoms in your cat if they are frequently itching, scratching, or losing hair. Skin lesions, such as red bumps, crusts, and scabs, may also appear. Additionally, some cats may develop a cough as a result of allergies. In certain cases, gastrointestinal symptoms like soft stool can occur, along with mild signs such as runny eyes or a runny nose.
What causes my cat to have allergies?
Flea allergies are the most common cause of allergic reactions in cats. In fact, dermatologists estimate that effective flea control can resolve around 90% of feline skin issues. However, cats can also develop food allergies, typically reacting to a protein source in their diet—though, in some cases, carbohydrates may also trigger symptoms. Environmental allergies are another possibility, with potential irritants ranging from household dust, mites, and mold to outdoor allergens like pollen, trees, and grasses.
Can you cure cat allergies?
Unfortunately, cat allergies have no cure—management is the key, often requiring some trial and error to find the best approach for you and your feline companion. A major focus is reducing allergens in your home, which can be done by frequently changing your furnace filter, vacuuming regularly, and keeping windows closed to minimize exposure. If your cat ventures outdoors, wiping them down afterward can help remove allergens clinging to their coat, further easing symptoms.
How do you know if my cat's allergies are serious enough to bring to the vet?
If your cat is experiencing excessive scratching, hair loss, itching, skin lesions, ear infections, coughing, or simply seems unwell, these may be signs of an underlying issue. It’s best to bring them in for an evaluation so we can identify the problem and provide the care they need.
What is PRP?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is an exciting new tool we’re using, especially for joint care. It involves drawing a blood sample from your pet, then processing it in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich portion. This concentrated plasma is then injected - usually into a joint - to help reduce pain and inflammation, and to support a healthier joint environment.
How is PRP done?
With PRP therapy, we typically start by drawing a blood sample from your pet and administering a light sedative. The sample is then processed to extract the platelet-rich plasma. Once ready, we clip and sterilize the areas around your pet’s joints, and then carefully inject the PRP into the target joints. It’s a straightforward procedure that can offer real relief.
What are the benefits of PRP?
PRP therapy is a fantastic option for managing arthritis in pets. It helps ease pain, slow joint degeneration, and improve overall comfort. One of its biggest advantages is safety - since we’re using your pet’s own cells, there’s no foreign drug to metabolize and virtually no risk of an adverse reaction.
What does PRP treat?
PRP is highly effective in treating arthritis and degenerative joint disease. Emerging research also points to its potential in healing wounds, fractures, and even corneal ulcers. So stay tuned - this therapy may soon have even broader applications in veterinary care.
What are the risks of PRP?
The risks associated with PRP therapy are minimal. While there’s a slight chance of infection simply due to injecting into the joint, the treatment itself uses your pet’s own cells. Platelets are naturally effective at reducing inflammation and fighting infection, so PRP is generally very safe and well-tolerated.
How long does PRP last?
PRP treatment typically provides relief for six to nine months, so you may need to plan on repeating the procedure within that timeframe to maintain its benefits.
Hi, I'm Dr. Chobot and I'm here to talk with you today about the most common cat behavior problems.
Let’s start with scratching - a totally natural behavior for cats, but one that can wreak havoc on your favorite furniture if not redirected. The key is to teach them where it’s okay to scratch.
First, provide plenty of appropriate scratching surfaces. Many cats love cardboard scratchers, but preferences vary - some like sisal, carpet, or wood. It’s a good idea to offer a variety of textures and both vertical and horizontal options, since some cats like to stretch up while others prefer to scratch flat.
Placement matters too. Put scratchers in areas your cat already likes to hang out or near the spots they’ve been targeting.
To make off-limits areas less appealing, try double-sided tape or furniture-safe deterrents you can find online. These make the surface less satisfying to scratch.
If you catch your cat scratching something they shouldn’t, avoid scolding. Instead, redirect them to the right spot using treats, praise, or even a little play. I’ve even scratched the post myself to get their attention - curiosity kicks in, and they often follow suit!
You can also sprinkle or rub catnip on the scratchers a couple of times a week to keep them enticing.
Let’s talk about enrichment for cats - and why it’s not just fun, but essential. More and more, we’re starting to treat our indoor cats like the intelligent, active animals they are—much like how zoos care for their animals. After all, our cats live in enclosed environments, and without enough stimulation, they can become bored, stressed, or even overweight.
In the wild, a typical cat might hunt and catch eight to ten small prey items a day. That’s a lot of activity! So how do we recreate that natural behavior indoors?
One of my favorite tools is the Doc & Phoebe’s Indoor Hunting Feeder - adorable little blue mice that you fill with kibble and hide around the house. Your cat gets to “hunt” them down, bat them around, and work to get the food out. It’s a fantastic way to engage their natural instincts and provide both mental and physical stimulation. These feeders have even been shown to reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being.
Of course, there are plenty of other enrichment options too - like treat-dispensing balls, puzzle feeders, and regular interactive play sessions. Try to schedule playtime around dawn and dusk, when cats are naturally more active. Making this a daily routine gives them something to look forward to and helps burn off that extra energy in a healthy way.
Let’s talk about litter box management for cats - a topic that’s always interesting because, well, cats definitely have opinions!
Most cats prefer a larger litter box, ideally about twice the length of their body. Unfortunately, many commercial boxes are too small, so you may need to look for oversized options or even repurpose storage containers to give your cat the space they need to feel comfortable.
Cleanliness is key. Just like us, cats prefer a clean bathroom. Scooping once or twice a day is ideal, and giving the box a full clean once a week helps keep things fresh. If you’re looking for a little help, self-cleaning litter boxes (like litter robots) can be a great option - specially for cats who are picky about cleanliness.
When it comes to litter, unscented, clumping varieties are usually best. Cats have incredibly sensitive noses, and strong perfumes or chemical smells can be off-putting. Stick with something simple and gentle on their senses.
Location matters too. Place litter boxes in quiet, low-traffic areas where your cat can have some privacy. Avoid loud appliances or busy hallways.
And here’s a golden rule: one litter box per cat, plus one extra. Spread them out across your home - especially if you have multiple floors - so every cat has easy access. If you have cats who don’t always get along, make sure each one has a box in their own space to avoid territorial tension.
The bottom line? More boxes, more comfort, less stress. Your cats will thank you - with fewer accidents and happier tails.
Let’s talk about counter surfing in cats - a super common behavior issue I hear about all the time. In fact, we dealt with it ourselves with our cat, Beans!
The first step is management: make sure there’s nothing tempting on the counter. Even if your cat finds food just once in a hundred tries, that one success reinforces the behavior and keeps them coming back. So, keep counters clear of food or anything that smells interesting.
Next, give them a better option. Cats love high places where they can observe their “kingdom,” so place a cat tower or perch near the kitchen. That way, they can still be close to you while you cook. Reward them with treats, attention, or play when they choose the perch instead of the counter.
You can also make the counter less appealing. Try double-sided tape - it creates a sticky surface that most cats dislike. For more persistent climbers, motion-activated air canisters can be a helpful deterrent. They release a harmless puff of air when triggered, which startles the cat without causing harm.
I recommend these over spray bottles, since we don’t want your cat to associate you with punishment. Plus, automated deterrents work even when you’re not home, making them more consistent and effective
Let’s talk about carrier training for cats - a topic that can truly improve life with your cat.
Many cats dislike the carrier, and I’ve had my own struggles with this at home - our cat Monte was no fan at first! But with time and patience, we turned it around, and now he hops in with ease.
The first step is choosing the right carrier. Soft-sided ones can be easier for some cats, but hard plastic airline-style carriers work well too. Just make sure it’s roomy enough for your cat to turn around comfortably. Add a towel or soft bedding to make it cozy.
Leave the carrier out in your home so it becomes part of the everyday environment - not just a signal that a vet visit is coming. Toss treats inside, play with toys around it, and encourage your cat to explore it on their own terms. For kittens, this kind of early exposure is especially helpful.
If your cat is nervous, try feeding meals near the carrier, then gradually move the bowl closer, and eventually inside. It may take a few weeks, but it’s worth the investment.
You can also use Feliway spray, a synthetic version of the calming pheromones cats release when they rub their faces on things. Spray it inside the carrier about an hour before travel to help reduce stress.
Once your cat is comfortable with the carrier, practice short trips-around the house, to the car, or even a quick drive. Pair these with treats, praise, and play to build positive associations.
Most importantly, go at your cat’s pace. If they seem stressed, slow down. The goal is to make the carrier feel safe and familiar - not scary.
If you have any questions or need help getting started, give us a call at Covington Veterinary Hospital. We’re here to help you and your cat every step of the way.
I just wanted to take a moment to talk about something I’m really passionate about - dentistry - and why it means so much to me. Maintaining your pet’s oral health isn’t just about fresh breath; it plays a huge role in their overall health and well-being. A healthy mouth can prevent unnecessary pain—especially the kind our pets can’t communicate—and has a big impact on their quality and length of life.
Proper dental care can include routine brushing at home, using products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council, and periodic professional cleanings under anesthesia, including dental X-rays. These X-rays are incredibly valuable in helping us detect issues that aren’t visible on the surface—like hidden pain or damaged teeth—so we can intervene before the problem worsens.
Since our pets can’t tell us when something hurts, it’s our responsibility to look for signs of dental disease and take action. And when treatment or surgery is needed, we’re here to help. We’ve found that pets who receive regular dental care are not only more comfortable but tend to live longer, healthier lives.
Do I need to brush my pet's teeth?
Brushing your pet's teeth is essential for their overall health. It's the most effective way to prevent periodontal disease - a bacterial infection that affects the structures supporting the teeth. When these areas become infected, it can lead to loose, painful teeth and serious oral discomfort. By maintaining good dental hygiene, you’re helping ensure your pet stays happy, healthy, and pain-free.
How often do I need to brush my pet's teeth?
Brushing daily is key - even if it’s not the answer everyone wants to hear. Plaque starts forming constantly, and within just 24 hours, it can harden into tough, stubborn calculus. By brushing every day, you’re clearing away plaque before it has a chance to settle and harden, helping to maintain a cleaner, healthier mouth.
What supplies do I need to brush my pet's teeth?
To get started with brushing your pet’s teeth, you’ll need a few key supplies. First and foremost: a toothbrush that fits your pet’s mouth. For a cat, a baby or kids size toothbrush works well. It’s best to choose something inexpensive since pets often chew on the bristles, meaning you’ll likely need to replace it fairly often.
Many pet owners also prefer using a finger brush, or even just a soft washcloth, especially if that feels more comfortable for them and their pet.
You’ll also need a pet-specific toothpaste - never use human toothpaste, as it contains fluoride and other ingredients not meant to be swallowed. Pets will almost certainly try to swallow the toothpaste, so it’s important to use one that’s safe and appealing to them. For example, this CET brand poultry-flavored option tends to be a hit. The key is finding a flavor your pet enjoys to make brushing a more pleasant experience for both of you
How do I brush my pet's teeth?
Start by putting a bit of pet-safe toothpaste on the toothbrush and simply let your pet lick it off. This step helps create a positive association - they’ll start to enjoy the taste and get familiar with the toothbrush. Try doing this daily for a week or two, until your pet begins to look forward to “brush time” and may even remind you it’s time for their dental treat!
Once your pet is comfortable and excited about the toothbrush, begin by gently brushing the front incisors. Gradually, as they become more relaxed, you can slowly work your way further back along the teeth.
Take it at your pet’s pace - don’t force the process. If they show signs of discomfort, pause and slow things down to match their comfort level. And when you do start brushing more thoroughly, focus most of your effort on the cheek-facing sides of the teeth, since that’s where plaque and tartar build up the most - not the tongue side.
What are the signs of dental problems in my pet?
Bad breath and red gums are clear warning signs of dental trouble. Contrary to popular belief, your cat's breath shouldn’t be stinky - so if it is, it’s worth taking a closer look. Other red flags include swollen or bleeding gums, unusual growths or masses around the gum line, drooling, and difficulty chewing.
You might also notice subtle signs, like your pet chewing only on one side of their mouth or favoring one side when eating kibble. These behaviors can indicate mouth pain that needs attention.
Is a professional dental cleaning necessary?
Daily brushing is incredibly helpful, but it doesn’t always reach below the gum line where tartar can build up. That’s where professional dental cleanings at your veterinarian’s office come in. These cleanings include full-mouth X-rays, careful probing of the gum pockets, and thorough scaling and polishing - especially beneath the gum line - to remove tartar and help slow the progression of periodontal disease.
So even if you brush your cat’s teeth every day, it’s still a good idea to schedule regular professional cleanings under anesthesia for a truly deep clean and better long-term dental health.
What if I can't brush my pet's teeth?
Some pets simply won’t tolerate toothbrushing - and that’s perfectly okay. In those cases, there are approved alternatives that can still support oral health. For example, products like Greenies are backed by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) and have been shown to help reduce tartar and bad breath.
I recommend checking the VOHC website for a full list of approved options. When shopping, look for the VOHC seal of approval on dental chews, treats, or other products - that’s your sign they’ve been tested for effectiveness. There are also water additives and other tools available to help manage plaque buildup.
That said, daily brushing remains the gold standard, especially for cleaning the canines and front incisors - areas that chews might not reach effectively. But any effort you can make toward your pet’s dental care is a step in the right direction!
If you have any further questions about how to brush your pet's teeth, feel free to contact us at Covington Veterinary Hospital.
What is a spay surgery for cats?
Spaying involves a complete hysterectomy, where both the uterus and ovaries are removed, preventing your cat from going into heat or becoming pregnant.
Why should you spay your cat?
Spaying your cat is incredibly important. It not only improves behavior—since cats in heat can display restless or disruptive actions - but also supports her long-term health. Spaying eliminates the risk of ovarian cancer, significantly reduces the chance of mammary cancer, and completely prevents pyometra, a serious and potentially life - threatening uterine infection.
What are the risks of spaying your cat?
As with any surgery, there is some risk - primarily incisional infection or an adverse reaction to anesthesia - but overall, the risks associated with spaying a cat are minimal.
What age should you spay your cat?
Generally, I recommend spaying your cat by five to six months of age. This timing helps prevent them from going into heat and exhibiting disruptive in-heat behaviors.
What does the spay surgery include?
The spay procedure includes an IV catheter and fluids, as well as pain medication to ensure your pet remains comfortable. General anesthesia is administered and closely monitored by a registered veterinary technician. The veterinarian performs the surgery under sterile conditions, wearing appropriate surgical attire and using a sterile instrument pack. Your pet is clipped, scrubbed, and draped in a sterile manner before the removal of the ovaries and uterus. Postoperative care includes the use of a surgical laser on the abdomen to reduce pain and promote healing, followed by in-hospital monitoring until discharge later that afternoon.
What is the spay surgery recovery like?
Recovery from spay surgery typically involves restricting your cat’s activity for seven to ten days. On the first night home, consider offering half of their usual meal, as anesthesia can sometimes cause stomach upset. One of the biggest challenges during recovery is preventing your cat from licking the incision site. This may require an e-collar, inflatable cone, or surgical recovery suit. To make the transition easier, it's a good idea to help your cat get accustomed to wearing one of these before surgery.
What is a neuter surgery for cats?
Neutering a male cat involves the surgical removal of the testicles to prevent reproduction and eliminate the risk of fathering kittens.
Why should you neuter your cat?
The big reason is that there are just way too many kittens out there already. Getting your cat neutered helps cut down on the number of unwanted litters and is a simple way to make a big difference.
What are the risks of neutering your cat?
The primary concern after neutering is a potential slowdown in your cat’s metabolism due to decreased testosterone levels, which can lead to weight gain. To help manage this, it’s important to monitor your cat’s diet and reduce calorie intake after surgery. Additionally, there’s a risk of incisional infection, so preventing your cat from licking the surgical site is essential for proper healing.
What age should you neuter your cat?
Neutering is typically recommended by six months of age. At this point, cats are nearing sexual maturity, which means they may begin marking territory and are capable of reproducing. Neutering before this age helps prevent these behaviors and contributes to controlling the pet population.
What does the neuter surgery involve?
Neuter surgery for male cats involves general anesthesia and pain management to ensure your pet's comfort throughout the procedure. The testicles are surgically removed, and a dedicated veterinary technician closely monitors your cat while under anesthesia. It’s a relatively quick and straightforward procedure, with most cats recovering smoothly.
What is the neuter surgery recovery like?
Recovery after a neuter surgery is typically straightforward. Your cat may be a bit drowsy the first evening, so it’s best to offer only half of their usual meal. Most cats bounce back quickly and are ready to return to their normal selves by the next day. Ideally, activity should be limited for about a week, although that can be tricky with young, energetic cats. Just do your best to keep play gentle and avoid encouraging rough or rambunctious behavior.
Our cats can live longer, better lives than ever before.
Understanding the changing needs is critical in helping your aging cat live a long, happy life.
Senior Cats Have Special Needs (pdf)
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6104 Covington Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46804, United States
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