Flea Control in Cats
How can my cat get fleas? Fleas can spread directly from a flea-infested animal to your cat, but usually cats get fleas from their environment. Fleas live, feed, and mate on many animals, including cats, dogs, rabbits, ferrets, opossums, rodents, and raccoons. Flea eggs fall off these animals, into the environment, where they hatch into […]
Ticks in Cats
Although ticks are commonly thought of as insects, they are actually arachnids similar to scorpions, spiders, and mites. All adult ticks have eight legs and have no antennae. Adult insects, by comparison, have six legs and one pair of antennae. Ticks are parasites that feed on the blood of their host, which can include pets […]
Zoonotic Diseases in Cats
What is a zoonotic disease? Zoonotic disease or zoonoses are terms used to describe an infection or disease that can be transmitted from an animal to a human. Are there many zoonoses? Altogether, well over 100 diseases can be transmitted from animals to humans, although most are rare in North America. All domestic animals, including […]
Microchipping Your Cat
What is a microchip? Today, microchip technology is found everywhere, from computers and cell phones, to implants in wild animals for tracking their movements, to pet microchips that provide identification information. Different types of microchips work in different ways, depending on their purpose. The purpose of microchips used for pets is to provide a form […]
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (Feline Herpesvirus-1)
What is it?Feline viral rhinotracheitis is a highly contagious upper respiratory disease caused by feline herpesvirus-1. It is one of the most common infectious diseases seen in kittens and cats. How is it spread?Transmission occurs through: Once infected, cats carry the virus for life, with intermittent reactivation during times of stress. Clinical signs may include: […]
Feline Calicivirus
What is it?Feline calicivirus is a contagious viral disease affecting the respiratory system and oral cavity. It is a common cause of upper respiratory infections in cats. How is it spread?The virus spreads through: Calicivirus can persist in the environment and is common in multi-cat households and shelters. Clinical signs may include: Rare virulent strains […]
Feline Panleukopenia Virus (Feline Distemper)
What is it?Feline panleukopenia is a severe, often fatal viral disease caused by a parvovirus closely related to canine parvovirus. It primarily affects kittens. How is it spread?Transmission occurs through: Clinical signs may include: Mortality rates are high, particularly in young kittens. Why vaccination is important:There is no cure. Treatment is intensive and often unsuccessful. […]
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
What is it?Feline leukemia virus is a retroviral infection that suppresses the immune system and increases the risk of cancer, anemia, and secondary infections. How is it spread?FeLV is transmitted through: Kittens are especially susceptible. Clinical signs may include: Why vaccination is important:FeLV is a leading cause of death in cats. Vaccination is recommended for […]
Buying Local
Why Buying Medications Locally Matters — For You and Your Pet At Country Care Veterinary Center, we understand the convenience of big-box online pharmacies. But when it comes to your pet’s health, local care matters — and so does where your money goes. Here’s why buying medications from us makes a real difference: 🐾 Personalized […]
Core Vaccines for Cats
Just like humans, cats need vaccinations to protect them from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Core vaccinations are considered essential for all cats, regardless of their lifestyle or whether they live indoors or outdoors. What are Core Vaccinations for Cats? Core vaccines are those recommended for all cats by veterinarians because they protect against diseases […]