Personalized medicine – care tailored to individual needs of patients – is rapidly gaining traction in human health care and veterinarians are embracing the concept as well. The Foundation has several studies in progress that could help veterinarians customize treatment and optimize care for cats. A core feature of personalized medicine is understanding a patient’s genetic makeup – their DNA. Without this information, it would be difficult, if not impossible, to deliver personalized care. Since 2006, we’ve funded 52 studies on all aspects of understanding the feline genetic code. Our studies fall into two basic categories: studies looking at genetic mutations associated with specific diseases and studies on determining the genetic sequence (code) of all the DNA present – almost 20,000 genes in our feline friends! Our researchers found a gene responsible for heart disease in Sphynx cats, a gene linked to the cartilage abnormalities seen in some breeds, and even a suggestion of a genetic link to diabetes. In addition, our researchers have made a huge contribution to decoding the complete genetic make-up of the cat – a massive feat of genetic wizardry! Current research includes work on learning more about how genetics influences a cat’s response to clopidogrel, a drug used to prevent deadly blood clots. Although the cat is finally catching up to the dog when it comes to genetic research, we still have a long way to go. But we’re confident that the secrets we’re unlocking now will make a big impact in the future for feline health. Source: https://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/

It’s true what they say about pets being with us for a “good time, not a long time,” so we are here with some tips on how to extend the life and wellbeing of your pet! 1. Maintain your pet’s teeth: Tooth decay is a very common, yet dangerous health problem for both dogs and cats. Did you know that tooth decay not only creates dental problems, but it can cause infections throughout the body, especially in the heart and kidneys? This is a commonly overlooked health issue our pets experience which can turn fatal, so it’s best to stay on top of your pet’s dental health and incorporate daily brushing into your pet care routine. Are you wondering how to get your pet acclimated to daily tooth brushing? At Brook Farm Veterinary Center we recommend brushing your pet's teeth at least a couple of times per week to help keep them clean. Please do not use human toothpaste as it has ingredients that are harmful to our pets. There are pet specific toothpastes and toothbrushes you can purchase to get the job done safely. If your pet has noticeable buildup of plaque, then you should book a dental appointment with Brook Farm’s team of experienced staff as soon as you have time! 2. Keep your pet at their ideal weight: Obesity is a nationwide crisis, not only affecting humans, but our furry companions too.  Work with your veterinarian to determine your pet’s ideal weight. Once that ideal weight is established you can easily maintain that weight by keeping track of how much they eat and how often they exercise on a regular basis. ‍3. Give your pet regular exercise: Dogs need to exercise the same way people do. Ideally, your dog should get at least an hour of exercise each day to improve their overall health and help regulate their weight. This can be in the form of walks in your neighborhood, visits to the local dog park, doggy daycare, or playing a couple games of fetch outside. Cats on the other hand are known to be less active than dogs. A couple ways you can entice your cat to exercise would be to use catnip to get them running around, getting a cat tree that they can climb on, and playing with lasers that they will surely try to catch! 4. Get regular exams and essential vaccinations: The early phase of a serious condition can quietly develop inside a perfectly healthy-looking dog or cat. And since pets age faster than we do, their diseases can also advance more quickly. This is the main reason that getting your pet to the veterinarian for regular exams and staying on top of their essential vaccines are crucial. 5. Give your pet time to relax: Everyone needs time to relax; this includes our pets.  It’s important to remember that as much as we crave a good work / life balance, our pets require a good balance too.  It takes a lot of energy to keep us humans entertained, so our furry friends need some time to rest without distractions. Incorporating all of these elements into your pet parenting routine will help extend your pet’s quality of life. Another way you can show your furry companion you care, is bringing them to a trusted facility, filled with dedicated and caring people. Sumber: https://www.brookfarmveterinarycenter.com/

Gluten-free diets aren’t just a human health trend—they’re gaining popularity among pet parents too. While not every dog or cat needs to avoid gluten, some pets experience noticeable improvements in their overall wellness after making the switch.   1. Improved Digestive Health 
One of the biggest benefits of gluten-free pet food is its positive impact on digestion. Pets with gluten sensitivities may suffer from bloating, gas, or irregular stools. Removing gluten can help reduce inflammation in the gut and support more consistent digestion, especially for pets with sensitive stomachs. 2. Relief from Food Allergies and Intolerances
 Some pets have allergies or intolerances to gluten-containing grains like wheat. Symptoms can range from itchy skin and ear infections to vomiting or diarrhea. A gluten-free diet eliminates these potential triggers, offering relief and reducing the risk of recurring health issues.   3. Healthier Skin and Shinier Coat
 If your pet has chronic skin conditions—like dryness, redness, or constant scratching—it might be linked to their food. Gluten-free diets that focus on clean, whole ingredients can help reduce skin inflammation, leading to a shinier coat and less discomfort.   4. Boosted Energy Levels
 When pets aren’t battling inflammation or digestive distress, they often show a noticeable increase in energy. Gluten-free diets can improve nutrient absorption, allowing pets to feel more energetic, playful, and alert throughout the day.   5. Reduced Risk of Chronic Health Conditions
 For pets with autoimmune disorders or inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), gluten can be a hidden aggravator. Going gluten-free may help reduce chronic inflammation and support long-term gut and immune health, giving these pets a better quality of life.   6. Easier Weight Management
 Some gluten-free foods are made with lower-glycemic ingredients and fewer fillers, which can support healthy weight maintenance. This is especially useful for pets that need to lose a few pounds or maintain a balanced metabolism.   Conclusion
 Whether your pet struggles with digestion, allergies, or energy dips, switching to gluten-free food could be a game-changer. While not a cure-all, it offers a clean, nutrient-rich approach to pet nutrition that supports overall well-being—especially for sensitive pets.