A Pet Parent’s Primer on Common Illnesses

If only new pet parents were handed a "What to Expect" book during the adoption process, they might not be so startled when their new companion takes off dashing at full speed around the house late at night. They also wouldn't rush to the veterinarian the first time their kitten hacks up a gooey glob.

Becoming familiar with normal quirks like the "zoomies" and hairballs makes it much easier to prepare for the common pet ailments that might not have been on your radar before welcoming a new animal into the family.

The Late-Night "Zoomies" (FRAPs)

Affecting both cats and dogs, the "zoomies" are totally normal. Officially known as Frenetic Random Activity Periods, or FRAPs, these sudden bursts of energy are often triggered by stimulating activities like bathing or playing.

The act of using the litter box or going outside to poop can also cause them, as bowel movements stimulate the vagus nerve and give pets a temporary, euphoric feeling. In most cases, FRAPs are completely harmless. However, if your pet exhibits them in excess, it could be a sign of underlying stress or illness and should be addressed with a veterinarian.

Managing Cat Hairballs

Most cats will experience occasional hairballs. Pet parents can minimize the frequency and discomfort by maintaining a consistent coat-brushing routine, ensuring their cat drinks plenty of water, and offering specialized hairball remedy products.

Warning Sign: If a cat is repeatedly heaving and retching without actually producing a hairball, a veterinary visit is in order. This behavior can be a primary sign of a dangerous gastrointestinal obstruction.

The Threat of Heartworm Disease

Heartworm disease is a far more serious concern, particularly for dog owners. While heartworms can affect cats, felines are not natural hosts and are generally less susceptible.

Caused by a parasitic worm and spread exclusively through mosquito bites, heartworm disease is not contagious from pet to pet. However, it can result in severe lung disease, heart failure, permanent organ damage, and death if left untreated. Dogs should be screened annually via a blood test and maintain a strict preventative medication schedule as directed by a vet.

Contagious Respiratory Illnesses

Both cats and dogs are vulnerable to upper respiratory infections, frequently referred to as "kennel cough" in dogs or "cat flu" in felines. These illnesses are highly contagious and spread rapidly in high-density environments like animal shelters or boarding facilities.

Common symptoms include:

• Runny noses
• Frequent sneezing
• Watery eyes
• Persistent coughing

While these infections are usually mild and resolve with rest, symptomatic pets must be carefully monitored and completely separated from other household animals. If symptoms worsen, or if your pet stops eating and drinking, seek veterinary intervention immediately.

Pet-Proofing and Emergency Prep

Before bringing any new animal home, it is vital to thoroughly pet-proof the living space. Remove any toxic houseplants (such as lilies for cats), and secure household chemicals, medications, and cleaning supplies in areas completely inaccessible to curious puppies and kittens.

Additionally, keep the phone numbers for local 24-hour emergency veterinary clinics and pet poison control posted in an easily accessible location at all times.

The 3-3-3 Rule for Adjustment

New pet parents should study the "3-3-3 Rule," which outlines the standard timeline for an animal adjusting to a brand-new environment:

• The First 3 Days: Expect the pet to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and scared. They may hide or refuse to eat.
• The First 3 Weeks: The animal will start to settle into your daily routine, feel safe, and realize the environment is permanent.
• The First 3 Months: The pet’s true personality will fully bloom, and they will begin to feel completely secure and bonded to the family.

If a pet fails to settle in or shows prolonged anxiety beyond this timeline, consult a vet or a certified behavioral specialist.

Red Flags: When to Call the Vet

Early signs of common pet illnesses require immediate professional attention. Schedule a veterinary visit right away if you notice any of the following sudden changes:

• Unexplained fatigue or lethargy
• A sudden loss of appetite or a sharp increase in hunger
• Changes in bathroom habits, chronic diarrhea, or vomiting
• Excessive, unquenchable thirst
• Continuous scratching, hair loss, or sudden skin inflammation

As a general rule, any sudden change in your pet's daily behavior, energy levels, or biological habits warrants a professional medical checkup.