The Pet Experts of Elmhurst, IL

Cats can be elusive; a characteristic that has, over the course of centuries, placed a target on their sleek backsides. It hasn’t been all negative attention, though, and numerous cultures worldwide have honored the species as the symbols for fertility, good harvests, and even divinity.

As far as The Pet Experts at Elmhurst Animal Care Center are concerned, a modern day household just isn’t complete without a mysterious four-legged creature slinking about, or jumping onto surfaces multiple times their height. That’s why we want to dispel the most popular cat myths, and help our friendly felines take their rightful places alongside other faithful companions. Continue…

You adore your cat and will do anything for him or her, but does your cat feel the same about you? Felines have a reputation for being standoffish and aloof; while we appreciate these unique characteristics, they sometimes lead us to wonder how a cat truly feels. Let The Pet Experts shed some light on how to tell if your cat loves you.

Body Language

In general, cats are not loud, in-your-face communicators. They don’t wag their tails, lick your face, or constantly follow you around. Instead, they express themselves using subtle body language cues. Continue…

As every graduate knows, making a good impression is critical on the first try. Similarly, a positive introduction between a child and a pet is essential to overall success. While companionship is never guaranteed, relationships are much more likely to flourish when everyone gets started on the right foot…or paw!

Before introducing your pet to children, The Pet Experts at Elmhurst Animal Care Center have compiled a few tricks to smooth out any social wrinkles and keep everyone safe. Continue…

Whether your plans entail time on the beach or lounging poolside, hitting the water often means a tail-wagging good time for dogs and their owners. However, keep in mind that many dogs need practice before swimming confidently. Contrary to popular belief, this is not an innate skill; teaching dogs to swim requires training, patience, and practice. Continue…

Commercial cat toys generally appeal to a cat’s intrinsic desires to chase, explore, solve problems, and receive rewards. Have you ever purchased a toy that you thought your cat would go bananas over, only to find it discarded and ignored within minutes? Or, even more baffling, did your cat play with the packaging instead?

You aren’t alone. That’s why DIY cat toys have become all the rage, and The Pet Experts are driving the bandwagon! This is not only better for your wallet, but homemade (or repurposed) cat toys reduces waste and benefits the environment. Win-win! Continue…

Tick season is upon us. You probably know all about tick borne diseases like Lyme disease that can affect humans and dogs, but if you have a cat that spends time outdoors you may be wondering whether it is a worry for them as well. Thankfully, The Pet Experts at Elmhurst Animal Care Center have the answers for you when it comes to Lyme disease in cats. Continue…

There are pros and cons to nearly all of life’s conundrums. We aren’t asking why boxing rings are square or what the best invention was before sliced bread came around. Instead, our ponderings always involve pet care, which is why we’re wondering: Should your cat travel with you this year?

Before You Decide

The most important factor in regard to cat travel is whether your pet is healthy enough to leave the comforts of home. Before taking off, schedule an appointment with us. Your senior cat may not cope well on a road trip or airplane ride. Similarly, traveling with a cat who requires medication may also not be a great idea. Continue…

While there are owners who dread the thought of traveling with a cat, there are times when there’s simply no other choice. Perhaps you’re relocating or boarding isn’t your cat’s cup of kibble…or maybe you and your cat actually enjoy being away from home together! Whatever the case may be, the pet experts can help steer you and your cat toward a safe, happy, and comfortable trip. Continue…

Despite being one of the most common endocrine conditions among cats, very few owners are aware of feline hyperthyroidism. This may be due, in part, to the erroneous assumption that old cats are just skinny. However, for felines over the age of 10, hyperthyroidism and diabetes can significantly impact quality of life and life expectancy.

An Overview of Feline Hyperthyroidism

When the thyroid glands – those two small lobes on each side of the trachea – produce an excess of hormones, hyperthyroidism ensues. This occurs when abnormal cells form masses or adenomas (benign lumps) within the lobe. Although there’s no clear reason why these adenomas form, there is some speculation around certain food ingredients and environmental toxins. Continue…

Our culture is a pet-centric one and for that, we are downright tickled. Pets are now welcome in most restaurants, shopping areas, airplanes, and hotels around the country. However, while we can go almost anywhere with our pets, it doesn’t mean that we should.

To keep your pet safe and to have a positive experience, pet etiquette should be observed in public places. Good behavior can go a long way, especially when it comes to other pets and children. Elmhurst Animal Care Center strives to help you find that joyful balance. Continue…