Cats are just as likely as dogs to develop arthritis. Although your feline friend’s arthritis signs may not be as obvious as those of an affected dog, cats feel significant discomfort and experience impaired mobility. In fact, up to 60% of cats have arthritis in at least one joint by age 6, with 90% of [...]

Pets bring great joy to many people’s lives, but because each person or family is different, pets are not one-size-fits-all. Dogs and cats are the most common household pets, but many other  furry, slimy, scaly, or feathered animals can make excellent companions. Get your whole family on the same page before bringing home your next [...]

Summer is heating up and so are the many seasonal delicacies. From backyard barbecues to perfect picnics, summer food staples are sizzlingly scrumptious. However, your summertime snacks aren’t the only thing sizzling, and scorching temperatures can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to your pet’s comfort and safety. When cooking any delicious dish, [...]

Leaving your pet behind when you’re away can be tough. However, if you find a trustworthy boarding facility and prepare your pet for their stay, you can help reduce your pet’s—and your own—stress, ensuring you both enjoy the experience. The Gentle Vet team shares tips to prepare your pet for a successful boarding experience. #1: [...]

You’re leisurely petting your dog or cat when you find a small seed-sized lump. You automatically tense—your mind racing. Is this a tumor? Is this a tick? You part your pet’s hair and find an unsightly eight-legged arachnid with its pinschers embedded in your pet’s precious skin. What now? The Gentle Vet team recommends resisting [...]

The Garden State is known for its beaches, boardwalks, and Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria that cause Lyme disease. New Jersey is a known hot-spot for this debilitating tick-borne illness, which can infect human and canine populations. Fortunately, prevention is possible with awareness and appropriate veterinary care. Before you venture out to enjoy the warm spring [...]

Scratching is an essential behavior for your feline friend, who should not be punished if they claw your curtains, rugs, or furniture. Refrain from yelling, swatting, or spraying them with a water bottle and instead avoid damaging your relationship by learning why your cat needs to scratch, and how you can encourage them to scratch [...]

Nobody wants to walk around with a toothache—in fact, you’d probably be quick to visit your dentist if you were suffering from oral pain. Pets can suffer from the same oral health issues, but they often hide their pain and make dental disease difficult for pet owners to recognize. Good dental health is key to [...]

Ensuring your indoor cat’s enrichment needs are fulfilled helps prevent behavioral problems and potential health complications such as feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC). To learn how to keep indoor cats happy and healthy, The Gentle Vet team discussed kitty contentedness with our feline friends who are experts in the field.  Candace, a 2-year-old calico, comments, “Ensure [...]

Winter weather can play havoc with daily routines and turn simple tasks into dangerous physical challenges. And while our pets may not be responsible for buying groceries, getting to work, or clearing the sidewalk, they’re equally vulnerable to winter’s wrath. Use the following cold safety tips from The Gentle Vet to keep your four-legged friend [...]