Blog list

Obstructive and allergic lung diseases affect many cats and are sometimes called “asthma,” “bronchitis,” or “bronchial asthma.” Unfortunately, these diseases are not easily classified and probably represent a variety of lung disorders. They do share a common finding of “hyper-responsive” or “over-reactive” airways.

International Guide Dog Day is April 28th. Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center & Urgent Care has a long history caring for Guide Dogs in Training. We love and celebrate this amazing program. One of our staff members, Cyndi Davis, is a Leader of Alameda County 4H Guide Dog Puppy Raisers and has helped raise 15 guide dog puppies. In honor of International Guide Dog Day she has written about her experiences.

A ferret is a type of carnivore related to the weasel, otter, and badger. They were initially domesticated to hunt rats and mice in people's homes, farms, and ships. They are very efficient predators and, unlike cats, can fit into very small spaces where rats and mice like to hide. Domestic ferrets have also been bred to help hunt rabbits for food and for their pelts. Today, the majority of ferrets are used as companion animals.

Learning that your dog or cat needs an amputation brings up a lot of questions. I’ll discuss common concerns about living with a pet that has undergone an amputation and share my own experiences on life with a tripod, my favorite term for a three-legged dog or cat.

Snail bait is the most common poisoning agent of dogs in California. Warning signs of snail bait poisoning include anxious twitching that becomes uncontrollable, racing heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea and respiratory failure.The twitching progresses to seizures and potentially death. Seizures can raise a pet's body temperature so high that brain damage can occur.

I have 2 kitties and one of them throws up a ton! I know people say that cats throw up; it's no big deal. Why do cats vomit?

Cats love to lay about, perch, lounge, and sleep the day away. In fact, many cats will sleep an average of 13 to 18 hours a day. If only we had it so easy! But a cat's sedentary habits tend to show up in their waist lines - especially for indoor only cats. So how do you help your cat exercise? It isn't as straightforward as it is with dogs. Most cats will not willingly go for a walk on a leash (although we know some special kitties that do!). Toys are a great way to encourage your cat to get moving and burn some extra calories. The best toys tap into a cat's hunter instinct; encouraging stalking, pouncing, and playful paw batting.

Does your cat like to drink water out of the sink, bath tubs, or even the toilet bowl? Or maybe your cat isn't drinking as much water as you would like them to. Surprisingly this behavior may have a lot to do with where you place their water bowl! 

Our staff share their favorite pet toys from the Pet Care Depot to help you out with your holiday shopping!

Over the holidays we frequently hospitalize dogs and cats with pancreatitis.  Even if your cute little one is looking up at you with big, sad eyes it’s better for them not to eat the greasy turkey leftovers.  This month’s article is all about pancreatitis.