As veterinarians, one of the most common concerns we hear from animal owners is how to protect their furry friends from fleas and ticks. These parasites not only cause discomfort and itching, but they can also transmit diseases and infest your home. Without proper treatment, they can make your four-legged family members (and other members of your family) downright miserable.

The United States is home to myriad cat breeds, each with its own special set of characteristics. While some people may prefer a certain type of cat based on appearance, others may base their decision on personality or health concerns. Regardless of your preferences, there are certain breeds that stand out among the rest. Here are the top cat breeds in the United States, according to The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA).

Shedding is just one of those things that come with having a cat or dog, but how much shedding is normal, and when does excessive hair loss signify a medical issue?

This Fall, you may think spiders and worms are the creepiest pests around, but cats have a whole other idea of what creeps them out: microscopic parasites that crawl into their ears and make themselves at home. This might sound like something out of a horror film, but it’s a common occurrence for cats (and dogs) – ear mites!

With the weather warming and allergy season getting underway, there is no better time to talk about skin disease. Allergies in pets can be just as frustrating and difficult to deal with as allergies in people: what works for one individual may not work for another. All systems of medicine struggle with the treatment of allergies.

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.

How do you know if your cat has a skin condition? Well, two common symptoms are massive hair loss and scratching like she’s entered herself in a World Scratch-a-thon and is determined to win.

There are other symptoms too, depending on this issue and we’ll look at those in a minute.

But first, you might ask yourself, what could trigger an all out Scratch-a-thon in my cat and your answer could be fleas. Food Allergies. Even cancer could drive your cat to the brink of compulsive chewing, biting, and scratching.