"Of all possessions, a friend is the most precious."

- Heradotus

Does your cat have a case of what you can only describe as the sniffles? Like humans, cats may experience an occasional runny nose. 

Before you reach for the tiny tissues, it’s important to understand that your cat’s postnasal drip could be a symptom of several conditions, some of which may require veterinary care. Here is what cat parents need to know about the common causes of a runny nose and when to make an appointment with your vet. 

What Causes a Runny Nose in Cats

A runny nose in and of itself isn’t terribly concerning, but it may be a symptom of a more serious health problem. 

calico cat sneezingUpper Respiratory Infection (URI)

Upper respiratory infections, commonly known as “cat flu,” are only of the most common causes of a runny nose. They may be caused by viruses (like feline herpesvirus), bacteria (like Bordetella and Chlamydia), or a combination of both. 

Because viral and bacterial infections require different interventions, your vet will need to do lab work to determine an effective course of treatment. 

Allergies

Postnasal drip may also be an indicator that your cat is allergic to something in their environment, like:

  • Seasonal pollen
  • Mold
  • Dust
  • Plastic food and water dishes 
  • Certain cleaning products
  • Scented cat litter

To make things more challenging for pet parents, allergies can develop without warning throughout your cat’s life. If you’ve ruled out an infection and your cat’s runny nose persists, you may have to assume the role of detective to pinpoint the allergen. 

Foreign Objects in the Nose

It’s also possible that a persistent runny nose is caused by a stuck foreign object. If a curious cat accidentally inhales a crumb of food or a bead from your craft kit, the irritation will cause their nose to drip. 

Removing an object from the nasal passage is a very delicate procedure, so leave it to your vet. 

Dental Issues

Tooth decay, infections, and abscesses can cause a runny nose due to the proximity of the dental roots to the nasal cavity.  

Dental disease can be very uncomfortable for your cat and if left untreated, it can contribute to heart, liver, and kidney problems. Get your cat’s teeth examined regularly and address any possible dental problems as quickly as possible. 

Nasal Tumorstabby cat with runny nose

While less common, tumors in the nasal cavity can cause chronic discharge and other respiratory symptoms. Particularly if your cat is older, it’s wise to investigate this possibility before chalking a runny nose up to environmental allergies. 

When to Worry About Your Cat’s Runny Nose

While some cases of nasal discharge are harmless and temporary, others require a vet’s attention. Here are signs that it’s time to be concerned:

  • Nasal discharge worsens or doesn’t go away in a day or two
  • Yellow, green, or bloody discharge
  • Sneezing, coughing, or labored breathing
  • Lethargy or loss of appetite
  • Facial swelling
  • Watery, runny eyes 

Preventing a Runny Nose

While all cats are likely to feel under the weather from time to time, pet parents can take steps to minimize sick days. Here are a few good habits that make it easier to banish the sniffles before they start.

Keep Your Cat’s Environment Clean

Household dust can easily settle into cloth and other porous surfaces. Regularly clean your cat’s bedding and vacuum perches to reduce exposure to allergens and irritants.

Practice Good Dental Hygiene

Healthy teeth and gums prevent oral infections from spreading to the nasal cavity. With practice and patience, even older cats can learn to tolerate at-home dental care. Supplement brushing with plaque-preventing treats and make sure dental exams are part of your pet’s annual checkup. 

Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations

Routine wellness appointments keep your pets living their best lives. Ensure that your cat is current on the vaccinations that will help them fight off the viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory illnesses. 

Ever wonder why your dog’s tongue is lolling out of their mouth, even when they aren’t eating, grooming, panting, or giving kisses

While it’s often benign, this condition, known as hanging tongue syndrome (HTS), can be an indicator of several underlying health issues. Here is what you need to know about the causes of HTS, how to manage a chronically floppy tongue, and when to worry. 

black and white dog with hanging tongueWhat Is Hanging Tongue Syndrome (HTS)?

Hanging tongue syndrome occurs when a dog isn’t able to fully retract their tongue or keep it inside their mouth when at rest. This condition can be permanent or happen intermittently.

There are a number of possible explanations for HTS, so it’s important to rule out health problems before writing it off as quirky behavior. Here are a few likely underlying causes:

  • Nerve damage or neurological problems
  • Dental issues or missing teeth
  • Malformations of the jawbone
  • Trauma or injury to the mouth or jaw
  • Genetics

Though it isn’t always a sign of a medical problem, if your dog’s hanging tongue is new or unusual, make an appointment with your vet. 

Breeds Prone to Hanging Tongue Syndrome

Brachycephalic (short nosed) breeds are more likely to experience HTS due to the shape of their jaws and the alignment of their teeth and tongue. Small breeds are also predisposed to hanging tongues as they age, largely due to the prevalence of dental disease and missing lower teeth

You’re more likely to see a lot of your dog’s tongue if you’re the pet parent of a:

  • Bulldog
  • Chihuahua
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
  • Pug
  • Boxer
  • Pomeranian

What to Do About HTSDoodle dog with hanging tongue syndrome

If hanging tongue syndrome is severe enough to interfere with your dog’s ability to eat or drink, your vet may recommend surgery. In the majority of cases, however, HTS will simply need to be managed. 

Because the tongue isn’t contained within the mouth, it can easily dry out, crack, or get infected if your pet becomes dehydrated. Check your dog’s tongue regularly for signs of irritation, and ensure they are able to drink plenty of water. 

Exposed tongues are vulnerable to extreme temperatures, and can even become frostbitten in cold weather. If you notice changes to the color or texture of your dog’s tongue, visit your vet right away. 

When to Worry About a Hanging Tongue

In many cases, hanging tongue syndrome won’t affect your dog’s overall health. However, if you suspect that your dog is in pain or their floppy tongue coincides with trauma, illness, or a new medication, don’t ignore it. 

Seek help if you notice:

  • A cracked, bleeding, or irritated tongue
  • Difficulty with eating or drinking
  • Chronic bad breath or other signs of tooth decay
  • Oral swelling or discoloration
  • Unusual behavior

These symptoms could point to issues requiring medical intervention, such as infections or more serious neurological conditions.

Cats are fundamentally mysterious creatures, and one of their more perplexing behaviors is random biting. One moment they’re lounging contently or enjoying pets, and the next, they’re sinking their teeth into your hand. 

As confusing (and painful) as this behavior can be, it’s important to understand that cats rarely bite without a reason. By exploring the common causes of seemingly unprovoked biting, you can take steps to address it and improve your relationship with your feline friend.

cat biting arm while playingWhy Do Cats Bite Without Warning?

When it comes to pets, all behavior is a form of communication. Here are a few likely explanations for cats’ surprise attacks. 

Overstimulation

Lots of things are fun until they aren’t. For cats, what starts as a pleasant petting session can become overstimulating once they’ve had their fill of physical contact. 

The moment when “more please” becomes “too much,” can be subtle, but there are usually signs. Watch out for:

  • Tail flicking
  • Flattened ears
  • Attempts to move away
  • Dilated pupils

Noticing these cues and giving your cat some space can help you avoid triggering a bite.

Fear and Anxiety

Cats are highly sensitive to their environment. Loud noises, unexpected movements, and unfamiliar people can provoke fear-based biting. 

If you happen to be in close proximity to your startled cat, you may be the recipient of a bite through no fault of your own. Fortunately, getting to know your pet’s triggers can help you mitigate stressors. 

Redirected Aggression

When a cat’s frustration or excitement bubbles over due to an external stimulus, like a bird outside the window, it can sometimes be redirected to the nearest person. This type of biting seems out of nowhere, but it’s often the result of pent-up energy and unfulfilled hunting instincts. 

Play

Young cats and kittens often bite each other during play. Ideally, interactions with siblings and other household cats will teach them that biting hurts, but solo kittens may struggle to leave this behavior behind as they mature. 

While single kitten syndrome isn’t a medically recognized term, it describes the behavioral issues (like biting) that can linger when your kitten isn’t socialized by other cats. Playful nips might be cute when your cat is tiny, but they can become a painful annoyance if the issue isn’t addressed before your cat reaches adulthood. 

Illness or Paincat randomly biting owners hand

Cats are often secretive about their pain, but they may lash out as a way to protect themselves. 

Dental problems, arthritis, or other medical issues can make even gentle physical contact uncomfortable. If your cat’s biting behavior is new or unusual, it’s worth consulting a veterinarian to rule out underlying health concerns.

How to Reduce Random Biting

Though there may still be times when biting takes you by surprise, it’s possible to greatly reduce this behavior. 

Recognize Body Language

Most bites happen when we fail to read the room. Pay attention to changes in your cat’s posture and take a break from petting before they become overstimulated. Keep a close eye on guests and small children who may not know what to look for. 

Create an Outlet for Your Cat’s Prey Drive

Cats are born to hunt. When they don’t have an outlet for their natural prey drive, they may resort to stalking our hands and feet. Keep your cat mentally and physically engaged with interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and regular play sessions.

Give Your Cat a Safe Space

Fearful or overstimulated cats may need to retreat. Make sure they have access to a comfortable bed or perch in a quiet area of your home. 

Redirect; Don’t Scold

Punishing or scolding your cat is likely to make them fearful or aggressive, worsening biting behavior. The next time your cat shows their teeth, offer a toy or initiate play to redirect those predatory instincts. 

With time and patience, your cat will learn to seek out a safe outlet when they’re feeling bitey. 

 

Raleigh, North Carolina is so much more than commerce, dining, and nightlife — it’s regularly ranked on lists of America’s most dog-friendly cities. With so many pet parents in residence, Raleigh offers an ever-widening variety of experiences you and your canine companion can enjoy together.

If you’re planning an end-of-year staycation with your pets, Raleigh is a fantastic place to be. Here are just a few local activities that will be just as fun for your dog as they are for you. 

white husky at park in Raleigh, NC

1. Explore the Neuse River Greenway Trail

With over 27 miles of river-lined trails, the Neuse River Greenway is a beautiful scenic place to walk, jog, or bike with your dog. Be sure to observe leash ordinances and protect your dog’s paws if you visit during cold weather. While you’re probably already aware of the dangers of hot sidewalks, many pet parents don’t realize that prolonged exposure to cold, damp ground can injure dogs’ feet. 

2. Visit Oakwood Dog Park

If you want to get off-leash, check out Raleigh’s Oakwood Dog Park. This expansive play place has separate areas for large and small dogs, covered shelters, and lots of agility equipment for exercise. Facilities are open daily from sunrise to sunset for hours of fun that cost zero dollars. 

Don’t forget to bring along waste bags as well as plenty of water and healthy treats to fuel your day of fun. 

3. Relax at a Dog-Friendly Brewery

When you’re in the mood to grab a beer, Raleigh has several breweries that welcome your favorite drinking buddy. Raleigh Brewing Company allows leashed dogs inside as well as outside, making it a fantastic place to hide out even when the weather is uncooperative. Bring along a favorite chew toy to keep your dog engaged and comfortable in a new environment. 

4. Stroll Around Pullen Parkwoman walking dog in Raleigh, NC

Pullen Park is a Raleigh institution filled with fun activities for the entire family (furry and otherwise). With lots of walking paths to explore, leashed dogs are welcome throughout the park with the exception of children’s play areas, the train, and the carousel. The park is open daily from 7am until 9pm. 

5. Grab a Bite at a Dog-Friendly Restaurant

Raleigh is home to a number of fantastic restaurants with heated and covered dog-friendly patios. Chuy’s Tex Mex and the Flying Biscuit Cafe happily welcome pets with treats and water bowls, while Raleigh Beer Garden features an entire “pup menu” of made-to-order, pet-friendly entrees. 

6. Take a Hike

If you want to spend a day outside of the city, check out Umstead State Park. Though it’s conveniently located just 10 miles outside of downtown Raleigh, it truly feels like an escape into nature. 

Explore miles of easy-to-moderate hiking trails, but come prepared. Keep your dog on a leash and bring plenty of waste bags so you don’t interfere with the local ecosystem. 

7. Visit the Farmer’s Market

The State Farmer’s Market is open year-round, and outdoor spaces welcome leashed dogs. Browse fresh produce, artisanal goods, and plants while enjoying time with your pet, but be mindful of your dog’s behavior in crowded spaces and keep them on a leash.

8. Spend the Day at Dix Park

Dorothea Dix Park is a sprawling urban park best known for the picturesque field of giant sunflowers that bloom each summer. Year-round, however, it’s full of open spaces ideal for dogs to run and play. Dix Park hosts a full calendar of seasonal events, some of which cater specifically to dogs and their owners. Pack a picnic and enjoy the fresh air with your canine companion.

 

For many of us, the holiday season is the perfect time to pop the champagne or shake up a crowd-pleasing cocktail. Unfortunately, this is also the time of year when accidental alcohol poisoning causes emergency vet visits to spike.

Unlike cats, dogs are drawn to sweet flavors. This means that, while they aren’t likely to be attracted to pure ethanol, unattended beer, wine, or cordials may present an irresistible temptation. Here’s what you need to know about alcohol toxicity in dogs, what to do if your dog drinks alcohol, and how to keep gatherings safe for pets.

dog considers sneaking beer at a party

Is Alcohol Dangerous for Dogs?

Alcohol has a much stronger effect on dogs than it does on humans — and not just because of differences in body size. Dogs’ livers aren’t able to efficiently process ethanol, so even small amounts can be toxic to pets

As little as 0.2 mL of pure ethanol per kilogram of body weight can cause distress. For a 10 pound dog, symptoms will appear after ingesting as little as: 

  • 1-2 ounces of beer
  • 1 ounce of wine
  • ½ ounce of liquor 

Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning in Dogs

The effects of alcohol poisoning can range from mild to deadly, and it’s often difficult to know for certain how much your pet drank. Seek help immediately if you notice:

  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Lack of coordination or stumbling
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Excessive drooling
  • Seizures
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Loss of consciousness

What to Do If Your Dog Drinks Beer

If you suspect that your pet has lapped up spilled alcohol or helped themselves to an abandoned drink, try to estimate the amount consumed and ascertain the ABV (percentage of alcohol by volume) of that beverage, if possible. This information can be critical for determining the best course of action. 

a woman dances with a dog at a new years party

Contact your vet or a 24 hour hotline like ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center and provide details about your dog’s weight, age, and the type of alcohol consumed. Unless you are directed to do so by a veterinarian, don’t induce vomiting. Trying to make your dog throw up can do more harm than good, especially if they have ingested a large amount of alcohol or are already showing symptoms.

Treating Alcohol Toxicity

If you are advised to bring your pet in for treatment, your vet will take steps to stabilize your dog and flush the alcohol from their system. Mild toxicity may be resolved with time and IV fluids, while more severe cases may require care for seizures or respiratory issues. 

Prevent Alcohol Ingestion

Keep pets safe during holiday gatherings by ensuring that drinks stay safely out of reach. If you know that your coffee table is the perfect height for your dog to gain access, you may want to consider providing guests with drink covers or lidded containers to use throughout the night. 

While it may seem obvious to your fellow dog parents, there’s no harm in politely reminding friends and family not to share their food or drinks with pets. 

Finally, look for ways to help your pet form positive associations with social events. A home full of people can feel overwhelming to your dog if they are constantly being scolded for their curiosity. Set aside special toys and treats for gatherings so that your dog spends the evening occupied and happy. 

If you are the pet parent of a “Velcro cat,” you already know that felines don’t always live up to their fiercely independent reputation. When your cat follows you from room to room as you go about your day, it can be difficult to know if they’re trying to tell you something or just enjoying your company. 

What’s really behind this sometimes-endearing, sometimes-annoying behavior? Here are the likely reasons why your cat may follow you and what it can reveal about your bond, their needs, and their instincts.

cat following woman into laundry roomThe Cat + Human Bond

Cats are more social than they’re often given credit for. While they aren’t likely to seek out the company of other cats who are non-relatives, they do form deep connections with their humans. 

Meowing offers some proof that cats come to view their human caregivers as surrogate parents — in the feline world, meowing is almost exclusively a way for kittens to communicate with their mothers. Adult cats who solicit their humans’ attention through behaviors like meowing and shadowing may express that they see you as a safe, reliable companion. 

A Clingy Cat May Need Your Help

Like humans, cats may seek out the help of those they trust when something doesn’t feel right. Following may be your cat’s way of letting you know that they’re in need.

If your pet’s clinginess is out of character or accompanied by other worrying symptoms, don’t ignore this behavior change. 

Illness or Discomfort

Cats tend to mask their pain, but if they suddenly won’t let you out of their sight, they could be signaling that they are uncomfortable, anxious, or ill. Especially when following is accompanied by increased vocalizations, lethargy, or changes to their appetite or bathroom habits, visit your vet to rule out medical issues. 

Unmet Needs

On the other hand, shadowing can also be a practical reminder that you’ve fallen behind on your chores. Cats rely on their owners to maintain their essentials, and an empty food or water bowl or a dirty litter box can all prompt them to follow you as a way of bringing your attention to the issue. 

If your cat seems out of sorts, take a moment to make sure all their basic needs are met. 

Your Cat May Feel That You Need Helpcat following owner from room to room

Cats have incredibly keen senses, and some experts believe they may pick up on changes in their owner’s emotional or physical state. Their olfactory abilities and acute awareness of body temperature allow them to detect subtle changes that may actually prompt them to come to your aid. 

Interestingly, a cat’s purring, often associated with relaxation and contentment, may have real healing benefits. The frequency of a cat’s purr (between 25-150 Hz) is used in some human medical therapies to promote the healing of bones and tissues. If your cat gets clingy when you’re under the weather, they may be trying to speed up your recovery. 

Seeking Attention or Affection

If your cat is craving interaction, they may follow you to ask for pets or playtime.

While it may be harder to convince an older cat to chase a laser pointer than a rambunctious kitten, cats of all ages crave engagement with their humans. Make sure you are setting aside at least a few minutes each day for play and affection to satisfy those social and physical needs. 

Curiosity 

What’s the deal with cats and closed doors? Cats are naturally curious, and their drive to explore can motivate them to follow you around the house. 

As highly observant creatures, cats have an awareness of your routines and habits — and they notice when something is unusual. Following you may simply be their way of investigating what you’re up to and checking out anything new or interesting. This can be especially true if you’re traveling or you’ve recently moved to a new home. Your presence may make them feel more secure as they get to know their surroundings. 

 

Once you’ve safely ruled out emotional or medical issues, take your cat’s insistence on following you in stride. This communication tool is often a sign of a strong bond and an invitation to connect. 

 

As the holiday season approaches, many pet parents plan to hit the road with their canine companions in tow. While some dogs live for car rides, others experience a combination of anxiety and motion-induced nausea that can leave them feeling out of sorts. 

If you have travel in your future, a bit of advanced planning can make the trip much smoother for you and your dog. Here is what you need to know about car sickness and how to mitigate it. 

dog harnessed in car to avoid car sicknessSymptoms of Car Sickness in Pets

If you are part of that unfortunate group of people who can’t read an email in the passenger seat without feeling ill,  you already understand what your pet is going through. Car sickness in dogs can mirror motion sickness in humans, and it’s often compounded by the anxiety of an unfamiliar situation. Common signs to look for include:

  • Excessive drooling
  • Whining or pacing
  • Licking or smacking lips
  • Restlessness or yawning
  • Vomiting

Puppies and younger dogs are more prone to car sickness because their inner ears are still developing. If your dog shows any of these symptoms consistently during car rides, it’s worth trying a few strategies to make them more comfortable.

1. Help Your Dog Get Comfortable With Car Trips

Nervousness can make car sickness much worse for your dog. If the only reason your pet ever gets into your car is to visit the vet, they are likely to be apprehensive from the jump. 

If you have a long drive ahead of you, start with short “practice trips” to a fun destination like a park or walking trail. Gradually increase the length of your drives and offer plenty of treats so your dog comes to expect good things from car rides. 

2. Avoid Large Meals

An overly-full stomach greatly increases the chances that a nauseated dog will vomit in your car. Avoid full meals for 2-3 hours before you plan to hit the road, and pack plenty of treats and snacks.

3. Bring Comfort Itemsdog avoiding motion sickness while riding in car

Favorite toys, blankets, and other items that smell like home can be very reassuring to a dog headed to an unfamiliar place. 

If you suspect that anxiety is the main driver of your pet’s car sickness, anti-anxiety vests like the Thunderwork’s ThunderShirt can offer constant, gentle compression that many dogs find calming in stressful situations. 

4. Help Your Dog Face Forward

Watching trees and light posts whiz by on the interstate may turn your dog’s stomach. Positioning your pet forward so they can’t look out of the car’s side windows can help reduce those feelings of nausea. Pet carriers, travel crates, or dog seat belts are great ways to keep your best friend secured and focused on the interior of the car. 

5. Take Breaks

As much as you may want to put miles behind you, expect your dog to need regular breaks from the car. 

For long road trips, plan to stop every 2-3 hours. These breaks give your dog a chance to stretch, go to the bathroom, and get some fresh air. Short walks can help reset their equilibrium and shake off nausea, making for a much happier travel buddy.

6. Consider Anti-Nausea Medication

If your dog’s car sickness is severe or persistent, pay a visit to your vet before you get on the road. Certain prescription anti-nausea medications may make the trip a lot easier for pets who consistently vomit in the car. 

7. Safety First

Wherever you’re headed for the holidays, take care to get there safely. Crates and harnesses not only prevent your dog from getting overstimulated, but they can also save their lives in the event of an accident. 

Make sure your pet is properly restrained for your safety as well as theirs, and never leave your dog alone in the car, even in cold weather. At low temperatures, condensation can bring the temperature inside your vehicle dangerously low. Plan your route along pet-friendly stops to ensure that you and your canine companion stay safe and comfortable. 

 

Corn chips might be a classic game-day snack, but a strong whiff of that uncanny smell from your dog’s feet means trouble. 

Pseudomonas and Proteus bacteria, both of which naturally occur on dogs’ feet, produce an odor oddly reminiscent of Fritos. While a faint smell is no cause for concern, when it becomes overwhelming, it’s a sign of yeast overgrowth in your dog’s paw pads. 

Here’s what pet parents need to know to keep yeast in check and their dogs’ feet healthy. 

What Are Yeast Infections and How Do They Start?

Like many varieties of bacteria, yeast is a normal part of a dog’s skin microbiome. Under normal circumstances, their immune system does an effective job of keeping yeast at a healthy level. 

yeast infection in dog's furry pawsYeast infections occur when the body isn’t able to keep yeast reproduction in check. Sometimes this happens because an underlying health condition is interfering with your dog’s ability to suppress yeast. It can also happen when yeast reproduces too quickly due to very favorable environmental conditions. 

Here are a few common scenarios:

  • Moisture from swimming, sweating, or running through wet grass becomes trapped between skin folds that don’t get properly cleaned.
  • Food or environmental allergies overwhelm your dog’s immune system, leaving them vulnerable to yeast overgrowth.   
  • A compromised immune system from acute or chronic illness can’t suppress yeast.
  • Inflammatory dermatological conditions like seborrhea create an environment where yeast can more easily thrive.

In any case, out-of-control yeast causes itchy, irritated skin that can lead to secondary infections if left untreated. 

What Causes Yeast Overgrowth in Paws?

Dog’s feet are at a disadvantage when it comes to yeast control. The structure of their toes and paw pads make pets’ feet a perfectly warm, dark, moist environment for yeast and bacteria to thrive. 

Not only do paws constantly pick up moisture and bacteria from the ground, but dogs also sweat through their feet. When the spaces between toes take too long to become clean and dry, the glucose in that sweat can feed yeast colonies and encourage them to multiply.

Symptoms

Aside from an overwhelming corn chip odor, yeast infections are apparent by the way they damage the skin. Keep an eye out for:

  • Redness and swelling of the toes and paw padsbasset with yeast infection in paws
  • Licking or chewing paws
  • Discharge or greasy skin
  • Discolored skin or nails

Treating Yeasty Paws

Luckily, most yeast infections respond quickly to antifungal medications. Your vet may prescribe a pill, ointment, or medicated bath to put yeast back in its place. If yeast overgrowth is an ongoing struggle for your pet, your vet can offer support that addresses the underlying cause. 

Yeast infections aren’t likely to resolve on their own, so don’t delay in seeking treatment. Dogs who are left to scratch and chew their irritated skin will create open sores that easily become infected. 

How to Prevent Yeast Infections in Dogs’ Feet

Managing your dog’s overall health and hygiene is the best way to keep yeast at bay. Take a moment to clean paws after walks, especially on wet or humid days. Always leave the spaces between the toes dry and inspect them for signs of irritation. 

Be aware of any environmental or food allergies your pet may have and take care to limit their exposure to things that burden their immune system.

Finally, don’t ignore excessive licking and chewing. Yeast overgrowth is easier to treat when it’s caught early, so don’t leave your pet vulnerable to open skin and secondary infections.