While there is far more research performed for the benefit of humans than for pets, we know that much of the initial research into human disease and pharmaceuticals is performed using animals; therefore, we learn about them as a side effect.

In the veterinary field, many of the therapeutics we use to treat disease come from human medicine, at least initially. The treatment of cancer is no exception, and in fact, some cancer treatments derived from human medicine have worked well for animals. Others, however, have not.

If the thought of wrangling your cat to get them to their vet appointment makes you cringe- you’re not alone. Who doesn’t enjoy peeling their cat out from under the bed, somehow coercing them into the carrier, and then driving them to the vet office? All while they yowl obscenities at you. This can be a highly stressful event, not only for your cat, but for you as well. Oh yeah, and the experience at the cat’s clinic hasn’t even begun yet.

While cats confined to an indoor environment generally live longer and are at less risk for contracting infectious diseases or injuries due to trauma, they are at greater risk for a variety of behavioral problems. These problems include urinating and defecating outside the litter box, anxiety, eating disorders, attention seeking, aggression, self-injury and compulsive disorders like excessive grooming and scratching.

Why does my cat wake me up at 4 a.m. for breakfast?

Just like humans, pets can experience adverse reactions to medications, vaccines and even seemingly benign topical substances, such as shampoo or ear cleaner. Do you know what to do if your pet has one?

Know the signs.

Symptoms of a drug reaction are often wide-ranging, as they depend on both the type of medication and the individual pet. Responses may vary from mild lethargy or nausea to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

January is National Train Your Dog Month, and that seems only natural. After all, most people think about how they’ll train their dog, and they work hard to make sure their best canine friend is well trained. But there are more cats as pets in the U.S. than dogs, and many homes have multiple cats. Why is there no “National Train Your Cat Month?” Is it because we think of cats as aloof and independent – too much so to be trainable? … Well, yes, but that doesn’t mean that perception is a reflection of reality! Cats, despite popular opinion, can absolutely be trained.

Happy New Year! Need some inspiration for your resolution list? Why not include a few “to do” items that will benefit your pet, too? Check out our top five suggestions just for pet owners — and their four-legged friends — here.

1. Sign up for pet insurance.

How it benefits you: Pet insurance saves owners money and, more importantly, keeps them from having to make urgent decisions about a pet’s health based on finances.