Mention this offer to claim $25 off your pet's first exam and get started with care designed around your pet.

Learn how heartworm disease spreads, the symptoms to watch for, and how year-round prevention can protect dogs and cats from this serious parasite.

Heartworm Awareness Month: How to Protect Your Pet from Heartworm Disease

Learn how to prevent Lyme disease in dogs, recognize symptoms early, and protect your pet from tick-borne illness with effective tick prevention.

Lyme Disease in Dogs: Prevention, Symptoms, and Tick Protection

Learn why parasite prevention for dogs and cats is essential year round. Understand how fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites, and heartworms affect pets and how veterinary preventive care protects their health.

Parasite Prevention for Dogs and Cats | Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Protection

Poison exposure is one of the most common and preventable causes of emergency veterinary visits. This guide outlines the most common sources of pet poisoning, warning signs to watch for, and steps you can take to protect your pet.


Poison Prevention in Pets: What Every Owner Needs to Know

Bad breath is one of the most common signs of dental and oral disease in dogs and cats. While it is often dismissed as normal, persistent odor from the mouth is almost always an indication of an underlying issue.

Bad Breath in Pets: What It Means and When to See the Veterinarian

Wed Jun 04 2025 15:22:31 GMT+0530 (India Standard Time)

Androscoggin Animal Hospital

about-us-page

our-history-section

our-teams-section

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of care along with friendly, compassionate service.

why-us-section

app-download-page

blogs-page

blogs-section

book-appointment-page

book-appointment-section

career-page

careers-section

forms-page

landing-page

contact-us-section

cta-bar

emergency-branches

faq-section

footer-section

hero-section

otto-widget-section

our-services-section

testimonials-section

vetstoria-widget-section

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of care and friendly, compassionate service.

Financial Aid:

Obedience:

Local Dog Parks:

Boarding Kennels In Our Area:

Microchipping:

Doggie Daycare in our Area:

Adoptions:

Androscoggin Animal Hospital has a curated hub for pet owners in Topsham, Brunswick, Bath and surrounding areas. It includes helpful links for financial aid like CareCredit, pet insurance plans, training & boarding facilities, general pet health & safety info, microchipping, adoption resources and local dog parks. Easily access trusted external resources and local services in one place.

General Information:

links-and-resources

news-page

our-history-page

payment-info-page

payment-information-section

payment-section-2

payment-section-3

payment-section-4

services-page

service-page-section

team-page

teams-page-section

video-page

pixel_google

pixel_facebook

Header Cookie Consent - 671f33c5d8e9f7c6b5f082c9

cookie_settings_1750955345987

<button id="ot-sdk-btn" class="ot-sdk-show-settings">Cookie Settings</button>
 

cookie_list_1750955346272

cookie_microsoft

<p dir="auto">As veterinarians, we’ve worked closely with many cats, uncovering the layers of their unique biological and <strong>physiological characteristics</strong>. Their abilities and uniqueness never get old! Let's have some fun and explore the top medical wonders of our feline friends, shedding light on what makes them special.</p><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>1. Powers of the Purr</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">We all know that gentle purr of our cats, the rumble that vibrates our hearts, and brings us closer. Our cat’s purr is typically seen as an expression of contentment, but it holds layers of complexity and utility far beyond a simple sign of happiness. Cats use purring as a multifaceted tool: it indicates enjoyment and serves as a mechanism for self-soothing during moments of pain or anxiety. This intriguing behavior suggests that purring plays an important role in a cat's emotional and physical well-being, allowing them to manage stress and discomfort.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">The therapeutic aspect of a cat's purr extends beyond its immediate effects on the cat itself. Scientific research reveals that the specific vibrational frequency of a cat's purr can <strong>promote healing and reduce swelling in their own bodiesits own body</strong>, a remarkable natural remedy that assists in its recovery from various conditions.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">The resonance of a cat's purr also offers unique health benefits for humans! The vibrations produced during purring have been linked to lowering human blood pressure, decreasing stress levels, and even stimulating the healing of bones and muscles. This symbiotic relationship between cats and their human companions emphasizes the deep and beneficial bond shared between species.</p><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>2. Exceptional Sensory Capabilities</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">Cats possess sensory capabilities that are truly remarkable, finely honed for their predatory lifestyle in the wild. Their eyes, perfectly adapted for the hunt, allow them to <strong>see in levels of light that are six times dimmer</strong> than the minimum required for human vision. This ability enables them to move and hunt effectively in the dark, capturing the heart of their nocturnal nature.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">But their sensory prowess doesn't end with vision. A cat's whiskers act as sophisticated touch receptors, sensitive enough to detect the slightest changes in air currents, obstacles, and prey in their immediate vicinity. This sensitivity allows them to navigate through narrow spaces and the darkness with superior skill.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px"></p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">Going beyond their night vision and whisker wavelengths, their hearing is incredibly sharp, attuned specifically to the high-pitched frequencies of their prey's calls. This acute sense of hearing complements their hunting skills, allowing them to detect and react to sounds that are imperceptible to humans. It's been shown that they can hear sounds 3 times higher and four to five times farther than we meek humans!</p><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>3. Physical Dexterity</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">Agility and balance are two areas where our felines will take the gold medal every time. These qualities are rooted in their unique anatomical makeup. Their skeletal structure, featuring a highly flexible spine and the <strong>absence of a collarbone</strong> (did you know this?!), affords them an incredible range of motion. This flexibility enables them to perform what we call today the "righting reflex." You've probably seen your cat do this: it's where they somehow can twist their bodies in mid-air and land on their feet.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">These aren't just party tricks and hidden talents. They play a big role in the survival and well-being of our cats. The righting reflex greatly lowers their risk of injury from falls, allowing cats to navigate their environment with confidence and grace. Whether leaping from high vantage points or having a wild moment of playtime, their agility and balance are an underrated precision!</p><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>4. Efficient Digestive System</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px"><strong>Cats are obligate carnivores</strong>. Let’s dissect this a little before we dive in. What is the difference between a carnivore and an obligate carnivore, you may ask? A carnivore is an animal that thrives on a meat-based diet, while an obligate carnivore requires a meat-based diet to survive. This is a defining aspect of our domestic cat’s biology, intricately shaping their <strong>nutritional needs</strong> and digestive system. The importance of providing our cats with a diet that mirrors their natural predilection for protein, ensuring they maintain their lean and muscular build, is essential for their overall health.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px"></p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">Unlike omnivores, cats possess a shorter gastrointestinal tract, a specialization that enables the rapid and efficient digestion of protein-rich meals. This adaptation is imperative for their survival, allowing them to extract maximum nutrients from their diet, predominantly meat. It's a fascinating reminder of how evolution has tailored every aspect of these creatures to their ecological niche as skilled hunters.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">For cat owners, understanding the <strong>unique dietary needs of their feline friends</strong> is essential for maintaining optimal health. Our team here at Crescenta Cañada Pet Hospital is dedicated to offering guidance on the best dietary practices for cats, ensuring they receive the nutrition they need to thrive. Whether you have questions about the best type of food for your cat or how to manage their dietary needs, we're here to support you and your feline!</p><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>5. Temperature Regulation</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">Cats possess a unique ability to regulate their body temperature, a testament to their evolutionary adaptation to a variety of environments within our homes. They intuitively seek out sunlight or shade, engage in grooming, and adjust their sleeping positions to either conserve heat or cool down. This natural thermoregulation allows them to maintain an optimal body temperature with minimal energy expenditure.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">This<strong> behavioral thermoregulation</strong> highlights the cat's adaptability and profound connection to the natural world, fine-tuning their responses to the slightest changes in their surroundings. It's how they can go from the great outdoors to the cozy comforts of our homes.</p><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>The Final Meow</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">From their purrs' therapeutic vibrations to their adept thermoregulation, cats embody evolution and adaptation. These unique traits not only enable them to thrive in different environments but also enhance our lives, offering friendship that's both mysterious and rewarding. All cat lovers await that slow blink of a kitten kiss.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">As we continue to learn from and care for our feline friends, let's appreciate the sophisticated biological mechanisms that make them such incredible creatures.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">If you have questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly. Don't forget to follow us on social media, <strong>Facebook</strong>, and <strong>Instagram</strong>.</p>

As veterinarians, we have worked closely with many cats, uncovering the layers of their unique biological and physiological characteristics. Their abilities and uniqueness never get old! Let's have some fun and explore the top medical wonders of our feline friends, shedding light on what makes them special.

5 Medical Marvels of the Common House Cat

gtm_684016eb922db540aa8159e6

facebook_pixel_684016eb922db540aa8159e6

androscogginanimalhospital

We love educating our clients! That's why we have curated and shared posts filled with helpful information regarding pet care.

Compassionate and quality care for your pet.

Same-day appointments welcome, call/text us for options!

Served over 10,000 fur babies and their happy families.

This accreditation is important as it exemplifies the standard of veterinary excellence.

We look forward to seeing you! Please use our booking widget below to book an appointment today!

Consult Online

Online Store

Pet Portal

Forms

Download App

Below are some answers to our most common questions.

Additional Services

General Services

Speciality Services

<p>Here at Androscoggin Animal Hospital, we accept many different payment options, including cash, checks, CareCredit, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express.</p>

<p>To help us provide the best care possible, payment is required at the time of service. We accept cash and all major credit cards, and we are happy to offer a deferred interest payment plan through CareCredit.</p>

<p>Get the care you need today, and pay for treatment costs overtime with a Scratch plan.</p>

CareCredit

Trupanion Pet Insurance

ScratchPay

Mr. Dog Training

Tree Frog Farm Personalized – Dog Training and Agility

Brunswick Maine Dog Park

Great Island Kennel

Pet Sitters of Maine

The Brown Dog Inn

Camp Bow Wow

Falmouth Happy Cats

Home Again

The Blue Dog Daycare

Happy Paws Unleashed

Midcoast Humane

Passion for Pets Rescue Organization

Coastal Maine Great Dane Rescue

VeterinaryPartner.com

The Indoor Pet Initiative

Feline Fix by Five

Traveling Out of the Country with Your Pet

AAHA Pet Health Library

Pet Poison Control

Permanent ID for Peace of Mind. A collar can come off. A tag can get lost. But a microchip is a permanent, tamper-proof way to make sure your pet always has a way home. At (), we offer safe and simple microchip implantation, so your pet stays connected to you, no matter what.

Pet Microchipping

Get expert pet care from home with virtual vet telemedicine at (). Our licensed vets provide secure, convenient video visits for minor issues, follow-ups, and wellness advice, perfect for anxious pets or busy owners. Book your virtual vet appointment today.

Virtual Vet Care

Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to stimulate healing and reduce pain in animals.

Laser Therapy

Ensure your pet travels safely with expert veterinary health certificates for local, interstate, and international trips. Our USDA-accredited veterinarians handle exams, travel forms, and documentation for airlines and border requirements, so your pet is healthy, compliant, and ready to go wherever your journey leads.

Pet Health Certificates

Saying goodbye is the hardest part of loving a pet. When that time comes, you deserve clarity, comfort, and the space to make decisions with peace of mind.

End-of-Life Support

When your pet needs medication, trust and convenience matter. At (), we prescribe and dispense medications directly from the team whos seen your pet, knows their health history, and understands their specific needs.
No guessing, no delays, and no unnecessary confusion.


Pet Prescriptions

Skin issues are one of the most common reasons pets end up at the vet, and they're also some of the most frustrating. Allergies, infections, or even food sensitivities can all cause your pet discomfort.

Dermatology & Allergy Care

When pets act out, there's almost always a reason. Anxiety, fear, medical conditions, or past trauma can show up as barking, biting, hiding, or destruction. Our job is to uncover the cause and help your pet feel safe again.

Pet Behavior & Anxiety Support

A sudden limp. A skipped meal. A look that says something's off. When your pet isn't feeling right, same-day answers make all the difference. 

Urgent Care

When your pet isn't acting like themselves, diagnostic testing helps us find the reason. From bloodwork, urine testing, and fecal exams to x-rays, these tests give us a window into what's happening inside, so we can take action before things get worse.

Diagnostic Testing

Your pet can't tell you when something's wrong. That's why regular wellness exams are so important. These visits give us the chance to catch health issues early, before they become painful or costly.  

Wellness Exams

Comprehensive surgical services, from routine procedures to complex operations, all are performed with expert care.

Pet Surgeries

Bad breath isn't just annoying - it's often a sign of deeper health issues. Dental disease in pets can lead to oral pain, local or systemic infection, tooth loss, and even heart, liver, or kidney complications. 

Dental Care

Fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms are not just a nuisance, they are dangerous. These tiny pests can cause serious health issues like Lyme disease, heartworm disease, and tapeworms. 

Parasite Prevention

When pets get sick or injured, you want answers fast. Advanced imaging gives us a deeper look, without invasive procedures.


Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

Vaccines are one of the most important tools we have to protect pets from serious, often deadly diseases. Whether you have a rambunctious or a relaxed pet, vaccinations help your pet build strong immunity and avoid preventable illness.

Vaccinations

Simplify pet care with affordable wellness packages at (). Our customized plans cover exams, vaccines, parasite prevention, and diagnostics for every life stage, puppy, adult, or senior. Enjoy predictable pricing, peace of mind, and healthier pets with routine, proactive care.

Wellness Packages

Discover hidden dental issues before they cause pain with pet dental radiology at (). Our veterinary dental X-rays reveal infections, bone loss, and tooth damage beneath the gum line, ensuring safer, more effective treatment. Non-invasive and included in every comprehensive dental cleaning, dental radiographs for pets help protect your pet's health, comfort, and smile for years to come.


Dental Radiology

Spaying or neutering your pet is one of the most important decisions you can make for their long-term health. It helps prevent certain cancers and infections, curbs unwanted behaviors, and reduces the number of orphaned pets in shelters.

Sheet title

5 Medical Marvels of the Common House Cat

Recent Blogs

Related Blogs

Bringing Home a New Pet for the Holidays: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Why Do Cats Purr?

The Importance of Year-Round Flea & Tick Prevention

FAQs

Sheet title

5 Medical Marvels of the Common House Cat

Recent Blogs

Heartworm Awareness Month: How to Protect Your Pet from Heartworm Disease

Lyme Disease in Dogs: Prevention, Symptoms, and Tick Protection

Parasite Prevention for Dogs and Cats | Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Protection

Related Blogs

Bringing Home a New Pet for the Holidays: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Why Do Cats Purr?

The Importance of Year-Round Flea & Tick Prevention

FAQs

What should I do if my pet shows signs of illness?

How often should I bring my pet to the vet for a check-up?

What if I have questions about my pet's medications?

Do you offer pet dental care services?

What is the best diet for my dog or cat?

What are the most common health issues for senior pets?