Is your cat urinating outside the litter box? Don’t get mad—get him to the vet!

Feline lower urinary tract disease, also known as feline urologic syndrome (FUS) or feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), is a general term for a variety of conditions affecting the bladder and urethra.

Is it a simple stomachache—or something more serious? While some causes of gastrointestinal upset in dogs and cats can be easily explained by dietary indiscretion (like rummaging through the trash), a bout with intestinal parasites, or even a change in food, others aren’t so clear.

You startle awake in the middle of the night to a familiar hacking sound. It’s your cat, expelling a hairball again—or is it?

As a cat owner, you are no stranger to the occasional hairball or vomiting episode, but if your feline friend is frequently coughing, wheezing, or gagging, don’t write it off. What may be overlooked as a normal cat behavior could actually be a sign of asthma.

Thanksgiving has a way of leaving the entire family feeling stuffed and sluggish, but if your dog or cat is also experiencing these signs (or others, such as vomiting or diarrhea) this holiday season, don’t ignore it. Indulging in a rich, fatty meal can result in much more than an upset stomach for pets—it can cause a painful and serious condition known as pancreatitis.

When your pet suddenly loses his appetite, it can be concerning—particularly if you’ve got a regular chowhound on your hands.

Does your cat have a big heart? No, we’re not talking about her loving personality. An enlarged heart could point to a cardiac condition known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy—and it can mean big problems for your feline friend’s health.

Did you know that cats, even those who stay indoors, can suffer from allergies? Signs of allergies in cats can be similar to common signs in dogs, including itchy, inflamed skin. You may recognize signs that are a lot like your own, too, such as sneezing or nasal discharge. You might even notice stomach upset, including vomiting or diarrhea.

It’s a fact: pets are expensive. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), it is estimated that pet owners will spend $72 billion on their pets in 2018. That number includes expenses such as food, medication, supplies, and veterinary care—and if your pet is insured, you could get a significant portion of those out-of-pocket costs covered.