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By Brittany Schlesener, DACVO As our dogs grow older, their needs change, which includes the way we care for their eyes. Senior dogs can develop age-related eye conditions that can affect comfort, vision, and quality of life. But the good news is that with regular monitoring and proactive veterinary care, many of these issues can…

By Brittany Schlesener, DACVO Cats are masters of disguise (like the kitty above) when it comes to illness, and eye problems are no exception. But subtle changes, such as watery eyes, squinting, or eye color changes, can point to serious conditions that need veterinary care. Common Cat Eye Problems Signs Cat Owners Shouldn’t Ignore Diagnosis…

By Brittany Schlesener, DACVO Short skull animal, or “brachycephalic,” breeds like Pugs, Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and Persian cats are beloved for their big, soulful eyes. But those same adorable features come with unique health challenges. Their eyes are more exposed and vulnerable to injury and disease. Why Brachycephalic Dog Breeds Are at…

By Brittany Schlesener, DACVO Glaucoma is one of the most painful and vision-threatening eye diseases seen in dogs and cats. It happens when fluid builds up inside the eye, raising pressure to dangerous levels. Left untreated, glaucoma can cause irreversible blindness in just hours to days. Recognizing the signs early can make a life-changing difference…

By Brittany Schlesener, DACVO If your dog’s eyes are starting to look cloudy, you might be wondering whether cataracts are to blame. Cataracts are a common condition in dogs, but they don’t always mean blindness is inevitable. With modern treatment options, many dogs with cataracts can regain functional vision and enjoy an excellent quality of…

By Brittany Schlesener, DACVO If you’ve ever noticed your dog or cat squinting, you might think it’s just a cute winking expression. However, in veterinary ophthalmology, squinting is actually one of the most important signs that something may be wrong with the eye. Eye conditions can range from mild irritation to vision-threatening emergencies, so understanding…

A cat’s tail does much more than express emotion—it’s a vital part of their balance, communication, and coordination. So, when a cat suffers a tail injury, especially one severe enough to cause a break, it can impact more than just their comfort. A broken cat tail can result from various incidents, and recognizing the signs…

Of all the habits you watch for in your cat, their litter box routine might not always be top of mind—until something seems off. If your cat hasn’t had a bowel movement in a day or two, or is straining without success, you might wonder how serious the situation really is. Constipation can be uncomfortable…

Cats are masters of hiding pain and discomfort, which can make it difficult to recognize when something is wrong. While their independence is part of their charm, it also means that subtle behavioral or physical changes may be the only indicators that they’re in distress. If your cat seems “off” but you can’t quite explain…

If your cat has been scratching their ears more than usual or shaking their head often, it may be more than just an itch. A cat ear infection can cause significant discomfort and, if left untreated, may lead to long-term issues. These infections aren’t as common in cats as they are in dogs, which can…