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A cough is a reflex that induces a forceful exhalation of air from the lungs in order to clear the airways. There are multiple ways to describe a cough (dry or moist, short or harsh, faint or deep, honking) and it can be followed by swallowing, gagging, retching, noisy breathing, or difficulty breathing. There are a wide variety of conditions that can cause a cough.

Plants are a great way to add color to your home. Unfortunately, not all of them are safe for pets — and some can even be deadly. Here are 10 common plants to avoid and their non-toxic alternatives. Please note that eating any plant material may cause vomiting and gastrointestinal upset for dogs and cats. For a comprehensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants and flowers, go to  https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants

Vaccines are an easy way to prevent your cat from getting sick with serious, sometimes fatal, diseases. Groomers or boarding kennels may require vaccinations to prevent the spread of diseases in close quarters. Your veterinarian can discuss with you which vaccines your cat needs and how often to get them. Core Vaccines: Feline leukemia virus (FeLV): This virus is one of the leading causes of death in cats. FeLV is spread from cat to cat through grooming, biting, or nursing. It can lead to a suppressed immune system, anemia, leukemia, and other issues. Herpesvirus and calicivirus: Highly contagious viruses that most often affect young kittens over the age of 6 weeks. They are spread by other infected cats or contact with contaminated environments where infected cats have been. Panleukopenia: Also called distemper, this highly contagious viral disease most commonly affects kittens. It can be spread through the air, contact with infected animals, or contaminated environments or objects. Rabies: A serious, fatal viral infection that affects a cat’s central nervous system. It’s usually transmitted through the bite of an infected animal but can also be spread when an infected animal’s saliva comes in contact with broken skin through licking, drooling, etc. Rabies vaccinations are required in most states. Non-core vaccines Non-core vaccines are given depending on the cat’s lifestyle; these include vaccines for Bordetella, Chlamydophila felis, and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). Your veterinarian can determine what vaccines are best for your pet.

While the thought of your beloved pet developing cancer may be frightening, many types of the disease are treatable if caught early. Be on the lookout for these warning signs and contact your veterinarian if you see anything concerning.

Kennel cough, also known as Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC), is a highly contagious infection of the respiratory tract with both viral and bacterial causes. It is commonly spread in places where dogs are in close contact, such as boarding kennels, doggie daycares, dog parks, grooming salons, or dog shows. When an infected dog coughs, droplets travel through the air, infecting nearby dogs. Kennel cough can also be spread through direct contact with contaminated objects like water bowls, toys, and bedding.