Oronoque Animal Hospital

06/05/2026

🐱 Myth or Reality? “Cats Cause Schizophrenia” 👀

You may have seen recent headlines making this claim, but the reality is much more nuanced.

What scientists are actually studying:
🦠 A parasite called Toxoplasma gondii
📚 Possible associations with certain mental health conditions
⚠️ Correlation does not equal causation

The good news? Routine veterinary care, parasite prevention, proper litter box hygiene, and hand washing all help reduce risk.

We’re sharing a Catster article that breaks down the research in a more balanced and understandable way:

👉 https://www.catster.com/weekly-mews/do-cats-cause-schizophrenia/

As always, if you have questions about parasite prevention or your cat’s health, our team is here to help 🐾💙

Being a fierce advocate (and occasional recipient of) mental health support and awareness, the term ‘crazy’ is not one I like to fling about.

06/03/2026

🐶 Is Your Dog’s Crate Setup Working for Them… or Against Them? 👀

A crate should feel like a safe, comfortable space, not a punishment.

Some of the most common crate setup mistakes include:
• Crates that are too large or too small
• Poor placement in the home
• Lack of comfort or enrichment
• Using the crate only during stressful moments

When introduced properly, crates can help dogs feel secure, support training, and provide a calm place to rest 💙

We’re sharing a helpful article from Dogster on common crate setup mistakes and how to fix them:

👉 https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/the-crate-setup-most-dog-owners-get-wrong

Questions about crate training or anxiety behaviors? Our team is always happy to help guide you 🐾

From chew toys to bedding to background noise, small changes to your dog's crate setup can make a big difference. Here's what actually works.

06/01/2026

🌿 Did you know many common garden plants can be toxic to cats? Even small exposures from chewing leaves, flowers, or pollen can cause serious illness in curious felines.

As gardening season begins, it’s important to be aware of which plants may pose a risk to your pets both indoors and outdoors. Some toxic plants can cause mild stomach upset, while others may lead to severe or even life-threatening complications.

We’re sharing this helpful article from PetMD that reviews common garden plant toxicities in cats, symptoms to watch for, and when to seek veterinary care. 🐾

🔗 Read more in the article here: https://www.petmd.com/cat/poisoning/garden-plant-toxicity-in-cats

If you believe your cat may have ingested a toxic plant or is showing concerning symptoms, please contact our hospital directly so we can help guide you on the next steps and determine if your pet should be seen.

Dr. Veronica Higgs explains the most common garden plants toxic to cats and what to do if your cat ingests a toxic garden plant.

05/30/2026

🐶 What to Do If Your Dog Is Choking ⚠️

Choking can happen quickly, knowing what to do can make all the difference.

Signs your dog may be choking:
• Pawing at the mouth
• Difficulty breathing
• Gagging or distress

What to do:
• Stay calm and check for a visible object
• If needed, perform the Heimlich maneuver
• Seek veterinary care right away

We’re sharing a step-by-step guide from PetMD on how to safely perform the Heimlich maneuver for dogs:

👉 https://www.petmd.com/dog/emergency/common-emergencies/e_dg_choking

If your pet is in distress or you’re unsure what to do, please contact us or an emergency veterinary hospital immediately, your pet’s safety is always our priority 🐾⚠️

Learn how and when to perform the Heimlich maneuver on your dog including steps to take to help prevent your dog from choking.

05/29/2026

🐱 Why is my cat shedding so much? 👀

Some shedding is totally normal, but sometimes there’s more to it.

Common causes include:
• Seasonal changes
• Stress or diet changes
• Skin or health issues

Knowing what’s normal (and when to be concerned) can help keep your cat healthy and comfortable 💙

We’re sharing a helpful article from Catster that breaks down 8 possible causes of shedding—and when to check in with your vet:

👉https://www.catster.com/cat-health-care/why-do-cats-shed-so-much/

Not sure if your cat’s shedding is normal? We’re here to help 🐾

Cats shed their fur for various reasons, including seasonal changes, grooming, and health issues. Learn more about why cats shed so much and how to manage it effectively.

05/27/2026

🐶 Caring for Your Pet’s Stitches 💙

After surgery, a little extra care goes a long way in helping your pet heal comfortably.

Keep an eye out for:
• Redness, swelling, or discharge
• Licking or chewing at the incision
• Signs of discomfort

At home tips:
• Keep the area clean and dry
• Use an e-collar if needed
• Limit activity during recovery

We’re sharing a helpful guide from Dogster on what to expect during healing and how to care for stitches:

👉 https://www.dogster.com/ask-the-vet/how-to-check-care-for-pet-stitches-after-surgery

Questions or concerns? We’re always here to help 🐾💙

Post-operative pet care involves monitoring stitches and knowing what to look for. Here's a guide on stages of healing, including daily care and when to contact your vet.

05/25/2026

Memorial Day

Today, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.

Memorial Day is more than a long weekend, it’s a time to reflect on the sacrifices that have made our freedoms possible and to express our gratitude to those who have served and those we have lost.

From all of us at Oronoque Animal Hospital, we thank and remember those who helped shape the meaning of this day. ❤️🤍💙

Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day 🇺🇸🐾

05/22/2026

🐱 Where does your cat really go? 👀

Cat trackers are becoming a popular way to keep curious kitties safe, and for good reason.

📍 Why pet parents love them:
• Helps locate wandering cats quickly
• Monitors activity levels
• Adds peace of mind for outdoor explorers

We’re sharing a quick read from Catster on how cat trackers can keep your cat safer, healthier, and happier:

👉 https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/ways-a-cat-tracker-can-keep-your-cat-safer-healthier-happier/

Would you ever try one? 🐾

Cat trackers are lightweight and small, and fit comfortably, so your cat won’t even notice they are wearing one, especially with the recently launched Pawfit Lite.

05/21/2026

Memorial Day Weekend Pet Safety 🐾

Memorial Day is a time to gather, relax, and enjoy the start of summer, but some holiday traditions can pose risks for our pets.

Keep your pets safe this weekend:
• 🍔 Avoid sharing BBQ foods (especially fatty meats, bones, and toxic items like onions)
• 🌭 Keep skewers, corn cobs, and trash out of reach
• 🎆 Be mindful of loud noises and fireworks
• 🌡️ Watch for heat—make sure fresh water and shade are always available
• 🚪 Secure doors and gates during gatherings

We’re sharing a helpful guide from the ASPCA on how to celebrate safely with your pets:

👉 https://www.aspca.org/news/how-celebrate-memorial-day-weekend-safely-your-pets

Have a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend! ❤️🤍💙🐾

As Memorial Day approaches, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center wants to ensure that you are able to celebrate the summer holiday safely with your furry friends. Check out this handy list of tips for keeping your pets happy and healthy this weekend!