Hyperthyroidism in Cats: Causes, Signs, and How Common It Is

skinny senior cat laying on porch outside

Hyperthyroidism in cats is a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, speeding up the body’s metabolism and causing signs like weight loss despite a hearty appetite. It’s the most common hormonal disorder in older cats, and the good news is that it’s very manageable once diagnosed. At Acton Animal Hospital in…

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Why Is My Dog Always Hungry?

small dog sitting next to empty food bowl

If you keep asking yourself, “Why is my dog always hungry?” the short answer is that a big appetite usually comes from learned behavior, the type or amount of food, or an underlying health condition. Many dogs simply love to eat and have learned that begging pays off, but a sudden or lasting increase in…

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Why Is My Dog Lethargic?

tired beagle laying on couch

If you’re asking, “Why is my dog lethargic?” the most common answers include infection, pain, a reaction to heat or exercise, a medication side effect, or an underlying illness affecting the organs or hormones. Mild tiredness after a long hike usually passes within a day, but lethargy that lingers or shows up alongside other changes…

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Yeast Infection in Dog Ears

male vet checking husky dog's ear at clinic

A dog ear yeast infection is one of the most common ear problems veterinarians treat and one of the most uncomfortable for your dog. If your pup has been shaking their head, scratching at their ears, or you’ve noticed a funky smell coming from their ear canal, a yeast infection could be the culprit. At…

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Treatments for Kennel Cough in Dogs

vet administering vaccine to yellow lab puppy while female owner holds the dog

Treatments for kennel cough range, depending on how sick your dog is and what’s causing the infection. If your dog has developed a harsh, hacking cough that sounds almost like something is stuck in their throat, kennel cough is likely at the top of your vet’s list of suspects. It’s one of the most common…

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Dog Isn’t Drinking Water — What Now?

Bernese mountain dog laying in the grass panting next to a water bowl

If your dog is not drinking water, it’s worth paying close attention because proper hydration is one of the most essential components of your dog’s health. A dog not drinking water for more than 24 hours can quickly move from a minor concern to a serious medical situation. At Acton Animal Hospital in Acton, MA,…

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Dog Elbow Calluses

close up of dog's elbow callus

A dog elbow callus is exactly what it sounds like: a thickened, roughened patch of skin that forms over the bony point of your dog’s elbow. If you’ve noticed your dog has developed what looks like a rough, gray, or hairless patch on one or both elbows, you’re not alone. Dog elbow calluses are incredibly…

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How Often Should I Take My Dog to the Vet?

vet tech holding a happy dog at its wellness check

“How often should I take my dog to the vet?” is one of the most common questions we hear from pet owners in Acton. In most cases, healthy adult dogs benefit from at least one checkup each year, while puppies, seniors, and dogs with ongoing health concerns often need more frequent visits. Regular wellness checks…

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Can Dogs Eat Salmon?

large dog staring at a plate of salmon with drool running from his mouth

Yes, when prepared properly, dogs can eat salmon safely. Cooked, plain salmon offers high-quality protein and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids that support skin, coat, joint comfort, and immune health. However, how salmon is prepared matters just as much as whether dogs eat it at all. Certain forms of salmon can cause digestive upset or expose…

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Blood in Cat Urine

tabby cat next to its litter box

Blood in cat urine refers to the presence of red blood cells in your cat’s urine, a condition veterinarians call hematuria. Pet owners often notice pink, red, or brown discoloration in the litter box, or they observe their cat straining and producing very little urine. While the amount of blood may appear small, even a…

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