Ear infections in cats are not really common, but cats with ear infections often suffer from pain, and possibly ear damage if the problem is not addressed as soon as possible. The main culprits of ear infection in cats include allergies, ear mites, abscess, and abnormal growth along the ear passages. Ear mites are very contagious and quite common among kittens. Cats that get into fights often end up with a bite wound or scratch that can possibly become an abscess if not cleaned and treated.

Symptoms of ear infection in cats

• There is a noticeably dark discharge in the opening of the ear canal
• Ears may be painful when touched
• The cat may persistently scratch at the affected ear which can possibly lead to injury
• A “wet” sound may be h ... Read more »

The noses and paw pads of dogs are generally smooth and soft. They are covered with specialized skin that is unique to the rest of the body. Dogs that suffer from a condition called “hyperkeratosis” develop thick and cracked skin in these spots. Dogs with serious cases of hyperkeratosis often have mobility problems and suffer from the discomfort.

The condition can be hereditary in certain canine breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Irish Setters, to name a few. Symptoms are usually evident when affected dogs are about 6 months old.

There are also cases of hyperkeratosis where the specific cause cannot be pinpointed. Most of these cases have been diagnosed in dogs over 10 years old.

Hyperkeratosis may also be a symptom of nutritional imbalance, immune-mediated conditions, and infectious diseases such as canine distem ... Read more »

Your guinea pig needs access to fresh, clean water at all times. A water bottle works better than a bowl. A bowl can tip over and become contaminated with droppings and bedding. The water bottle should be large enough to fulfill your pig’s water needs. It should have a sipper tube with a stainless ball bearing at the end to keep it from leaking. Hang the water bottle on the side of the cage away from where your guinea normally urinates. It should be low enough for your piggy to reach easily but high enough so that it isn’t contaminated with litter. Litter could also get caught in the end and cause leaking. Rinse out the water bottle and fill it with fresh water daily. Scrub the water bottle with a bottlebrush during your weekly cage cleaning or more often if there are food particles or algae in the water. Contact your Crown Point IN vet to learn more or click here ... Read more »

Aging can have important effects on the bodies of cats. In addition to slowing down and being more prone to health-related issues, senior cats can also have lesser control on their bladder and bowel.  This is one reason why your senior cat tends to eliminate in certain places other than their litter box. Even a cat that has not committed potty problems when they were younger, can possibly commit potty accidents when they’re already old and senile. Here are some tips to help you deal with the problem:

• Some senior pets become fussier with age, and this fussiness can extend to their litter box. So make sure that the box is kept clean and odor-free every day.
• Senior cats can suffer from joint aches and pains. Placing litter boxes in strategic places around the home will make it easier for them to do their thing without walking across the room or going down to the ba ... Read more »