Cats have some unique care needs, and these are made even more apparent in the winter months. Once the temperatures drop, snow begins to fall and the days get shorter, you might need to implement a few more elements into your cat’s daily routines.

Anyone who’s ever had a cold sore understands the agitation that goes along with it. These raised bumps and blisters prove unsightly, uncomfortable and unpredictable. But what you might not know is that our furry friends can also experience this unfortunate affliction.

Cats are susceptible to all sorts of infections, affecting everything from their ears to their skin to their lungs. But what makes a big difference in how these infections are treated is the type of microorganism that’s causing them. While many people assume bacteria is to blame for most infections, fungal infections can cause very similar problems for your cat’s health.

Just like humans, dogs are susceptible to infections caused by harmful bacteria. Millions of bacteria exist in and on your dog’s body, but an overgrowth of one type in particular could lead to health problems. In many cases, these infections can be treated easily with a combination of your pet’s immune system and an antibiotic medication—but not always.

If your cat suddenly starts coughing and hacking away, you know what comes next: a gross pile of fur on your carpet. Hairballs are normal every once in a while and usually mean that your cat is taking care of their fur. Still, pet owners don’t enjoy seeing their kitties try to cough them up, nor do they enjoy the mess they make afterwards.

Pet owners are quite familiar with the amount of fur their cats lose on a daily basis. Sometimes, it’s hard to believe they still have a healthy coat of fur left after how much they shed! However, while shedding is perfectly normal for our feline friends, other coat problems, like bald spots, are warning signs of an underlying problem.