Articles by Dr. Alycia Washington, DVM, MS
Dr. Alycia Washington, DVM, MS
Alycia Washington, DVM, is a small animal emergency veterinarian based in North Carolina. She works as a relief veterinarianopens in a new tab and provides services to numerous emergency and specialty hospitals. Dr. Washington is also a children’s book author and freelance writer with a focus on veterinary medicine. She has a special fondness for turtles, honey bees, and penguins — none of which she treats. In her free time, Dr. Washington enjoys travel, good food, and good enough coffee.
![Two dogs waiting to be fed their dinner.]()
nutritionWhat Is the Best Time to Feed a Dog?
They would tell you that every time of day is eating time, but you have to know better.
They would tell you that every time of day is eating time, but you have to know better.
They would prefer no bath at all, but we’re not asking them.
![Woman feeding her kitten from a bowl at home.]()
Some helpful guidelines to follow.
Guidelines from keeping them full — but not too full.
How to spot-clean them instead.
Learn what’s safe to do when they have tummy troubles.
- health
Can Puppies Chew on Sticks?
Why they shouldn’t make a DIY chew toy out of the stuff in your yard.
Why they shouldn’t make a DIY chew toy out of the stuff in your yard.
Learn why vets recommend spaying as early as possible.
- nutrition | Can My Dog Eat This?
Can Dogs Eat Cauliflower?
They want to munch on that crudité platter.
They want to munch on that crudité platter.
And if so, what kind?
And how to help them heal.
![Woman holding her young kitten in her arms outside.]()
There are a few factors to consider.
That is not a treat, pal.
They’re pretty to look at, but can your cat be an admirer?
Squirmy puppy, shampoo, water—quite the adventure.
![Woman playing with her dog and his ball outside.]()
When to see a vet and when you shouldn’t panic.
Learn what nutrients are a must for your new little one.
And how to know if they have one.
- health
Are Hibiscus Plants Toxic to Your Dog?
They’re bright and pretty—just like your pup. But are they safe?
They’re bright and pretty—just like your pup. But are they safe?
![Unrecognizable woman petting an ill cat]()
health5 Common Types of Cancer in Cats, Symptoms, and Treatments
Learn how to spot the early signs to how to treat them.
Learn how to spot the early signs to how to treat them.
![Cat sitting by its litter box]()
Here’s how to deal with cat constipation.
What you need to know.
![woman draped in an orange blanket holds a black-and-white puppy]()
health5 Development Stages You Should Know When You Get a Puppy
It’s like What to Expect When You’re Expecting, except add “four little paws to run around your house” to the title.
It’s like What to Expect When You’re Expecting, except add “four little paws to run around your house” to the title.
- health
Kitten Teething: Do Kittens Lose Their Teeth?
Get those little chompers ready for the kitten tooth fairy.
Get those little chompers ready for the kitten tooth fairy.
They can’t be saying no that much.
![Woman petting her dog outside in the grass.]()
And what to look for week by week.
![Ginger adult cat sits in flowering summer garden on pavement.]()
healthWhat to Do If Your Cat Gets Stung By a Bee
It’s not always as simple as removing the stinger. Find out everything you need to know.
It’s not always as simple as removing the stinger. Find out everything you need to know.
It seriously sounds like another human being is in the room.
![Man trying to tempt dog to eat his kibble.]()
healthHow Long Can Dogs Go Without Eating?
If you ask them, they would say they should be eating always. But here’s the truth.
If you ask them, they would say they should be eating always. But here’s the truth.
You shouldn’t make them cross their legs for long!
- behavior
Can Cats Have ADHD?
A question you may be asking after you observe any number of their behaviors...
A question you may be asking after you observe any number of their behaviors...
How does that taste, bud?
![Young woman showing gray kitten.]()
health5 Development Stages You Should Know When You Get a Kitten
What to expect from birth to 16 months.
What to expect from birth to 16 months.
![Woman playing with her puppy.]()
healthCan Puppies Lose Their Teeth? Baby Teeth In Puppies
Whether you should save them for the tooth fairy is another issue entirely.
Whether you should save them for the tooth fairy is another issue entirely.
![dog cuddling their pet parent on the couch]()
healthWhy Does My Dog Throw Up Yellow Bile?
It’s not a pretty sight, but it’s important to know what’s going on.
It’s not a pretty sight, but it’s important to know what’s going on.
![Cat sticking its tongue out in motion]()
Dogs rule, cats drool. Like, that’s normal, right?
Well, for one thing, you should know about “garbage gut.”
What to do to help them cool down and feel better.
Time to go to the doggie dermatologist!
![White brown black scotish cat in woman hug, is about to sleep, Asian woman holding cute cat in herarm beside the window and curtain with relaxing emotion.]()
healthKidney Disease in Cats: Symptoms, Signs, and Treatments
If you notice some of these things, talk to your vet.
If you notice some of these things, talk to your vet.
![Black and white cat scratching with its paw.]()
healthRingworms in Cats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prognosis
Well, it’s not a fun thing to deal with, for starters.
Well, it’s not a fun thing to deal with, for starters.
![Man and cat looking at each other with affection.]()
Here are the signs to look out for.
![Woman petting her long haired cat on the sofa.]()
healthWhy Does My Cat Have Dandruff? Common Causes and Treatments
Ever heard of “walking dandruff?” Yep, that’s what we said.
Ever heard of “walking dandruff?” Yep, that’s what we said.
- health
Can Cats Get Pink Eye? The Signs, Symptoms, and Treatments
The answer isn’t cute, but here’s how to help your kitty.
The answer isn’t cute, but here’s how to help your kitty.
The short answer: Yes. Here’s how you deal with it.
![bandaging dog's bleeding paw]()
Don’t freak out—here’s what to do.
![woman comforts her dog]()
healthWhat Medication Can You Give Your Dog for Anxiety?
Here are some options your vet can help you consider.
Here are some options your vet can help you consider.
![Cat chewing on cat grass]()
lifestyleThe 10 Best Non-Toxic House Plants for Cats
Cats love the crunch of a houseplant. These will do them no harm.
Cats love the crunch of a houseplant. These will do them no harm.
![Curious cat sniffing on toothpaste on toothbrush held by pet owner.]()
healthHow to Brush Your Cat’s Teeth
It sounds like a daunting task, but here are some helpful steps to take.
It sounds like a daunting task, but here are some helpful steps to take.
![Young Woman Working From Home with Her Dog]()
lifestyleThe 10 Best Non-Toxic House Plants for Dogs
Brb, running out to buy air plants and succulents.
Brb, running out to buy air plants and succulents.
![Cozy at home with tabby cat, woman with her pet on sofa at home in evening.]()
healthShould You Give Your Pet Heartworm Prevention in the Winter?
Here’s why it’s best to stay on top of things, even when the temps are low.
Here’s why it’s best to stay on top of things, even when the temps are low.
![Newborn stray baby kitten, two weeks old adopted from the street in safe enviorment.]()
healthWhat Is Fading Kitten Syndrome?
Newborn kittens give you lots to worry about. Know the signs of this particular condition.
Newborn kittens give you lots to worry about. Know the signs of this particular condition.
![A Terrier Puppy With Spots And Big Ears Chews On Their Paws.]()
And when will it stop?
![Woman giving her white cat a vitamin.]()
nutritionDoes My Cat Need Supplements?
![A couple bundled up for winter standing outside in the snow with their dog.]()
healthCan Dogs Get Frostbite?
Yep, all those warnings your mom gave you as a kid apply to your dog, too. Learn how to keep your pup safe in the cold.
Yep, all those warnings your mom gave you as a kid apply to your dog, too. Learn how to keep your pup safe in the cold.
![Winterizing your dog's coat - Dog laying in the snow.]()
healthNatural Remedies for Dry Skin: How to Help Dry Skin on Dogs
Spoiler: These at-home remedies are probably already in your pantry.
Spoiler: These at-home remedies are probably already in your pantry.
![Two tabby cats in embrace lying in cushion.]()
healthWhat Are Cat Pheromones and How Do They Work?
Communication is key, and pheromones are your cat’s version of DMs.
Communication is key, and pheromones are your cat’s version of DMs.
![Cat looks at their butt]()
healthWhy Is My Cat Bleeding From Their Anus?
It’s not a pretty problem to have, but it’s important to know how to treat this condition.
It’s not a pretty problem to have, but it’s important to know how to treat this condition.
![Red Cat On Threshold Looks At The Camera And Meows.]()
healthWhy Is My Cat Breathing Heavy?
This can happen over time or very suddenly. Either way, it’s important to learn more about this symptom.
This can happen over time or very suddenly. Either way, it’s important to learn more about this symptom.
The delicious fruit is safe in moderation.
![a dog walking with their parent at night]()
behaviorWhy Do Dogs’ Eyes Glow in the Dark?
The reason for your midnight jump-scare? Turns out it’s just your dog’s spooky eyes.
The reason for your midnight jump-scare? Turns out it’s just your dog’s spooky eyes.
![Curious Basenji dog puppy climbs on the table with fresh vegetables at home in the kitchen.]()
nutrition | Can My Dog Eat This?Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?
Find out how to safely get your pup their greens.
Find out how to safely get your pup their greens.
- nutrition | Can My Dog Eat This?
Can Dogs Eat Shrimp?
Is your pup a seafood fan? Find out everything you need to know about feeding them shrimp.
Is your pup a seafood fan? Find out everything you need to know about feeding them shrimp.
![Male and female cat lying side by side.]()
behaviorHow to Spot the Difference Between Male and Female Cats
There’s more to it than what you learned in health class.
There’s more to it than what you learned in health class.
![close up of Chihuahua dog's eye with cataracts]()
healthCommon Eye Problems in Dogs and How to Treat Them
Your dog sees you as their best friend, so keep those eyes healthy.
Your dog sees you as their best friend, so keep those eyes healthy.
![A beautiful woman lying down in the park hugging her cute little dog.]()
healthCommon Health Conditions in Shelter Dogs That Really Aren’t a Big Deal
Seriously, everything on this list is super treatable.
Seriously, everything on this list is super treatable.
![Two women, one with dark curly hair and deep skin and one with pink-blonde hair and lighter skin petting their grey cat]()
healthYes, You Should Spay/Neuter Your Cat. Here’s Why
A veterinarian breaks down how it keeps your pet healthy and curbs kitten overpopulation.
A veterinarian breaks down how it keeps your pet healthy and curbs kitten overpopulation.
![Dog Looking Out The Window.]()
Those soulful eyes mean everything to you—learn all about them.
![Cat playing in spider plant.]()
healthAre Spider Plants Toxic to Cats?
Learn what you should do if your “spider babies” and cat baby interact.
Learn what you should do if your “spider babies” and cat baby interact.
![A dog cuddled up next to its owner on the couch]()
healthCertain Flea and Tick Meds Can Cause Adverse Reaction in Pets, FDA Warns
Some preventatives have been linked to neurological issues, like stumbling, seizures, and twitching in dogs and cats. Here’s what you need to know.
Some preventatives have been linked to neurological issues, like stumbling, seizures, and twitching in dogs and cats. Here’s what you need to know.
![Shiba inu dog sleeping in bed]()
behaviorMy Dog Sleeps All Day—Is That Normal?
Dogs need more sleep than humans. Here’s how much is healthy.
Dogs need more sleep than humans. Here’s how much is healthy.
- behavior
What Is Dog Trancing? Why Your Dog Appears Hypnotized By Hanging Objects
When they’re “ghost-walking” outside of Halloween, they could have trance-like syndrome, or TLS.
When they’re “ghost-walking” outside of Halloween, they could have trance-like syndrome, or TLS.
![A brown cat with a snake plant.]()
Yes, snake plants are toxic to cats.
- nutrition | Can My Dog Eat This?
Can Your Dog Eat Watermelon?
Yep, you can share watermelon with your pup — but there are a few safety tips to keep in mind.
Yep, you can share watermelon with your pup — but there are a few safety tips to keep in mind.
- health
Are Snake Plants Toxic to My Dog?
Just get a new dog? Might be time to find a new home for your snake plant.
Just get a new dog? Might be time to find a new home for your snake plant.
- health
Are Snake Plants Toxic to My Dog?
Just get a new dog? Might be time to find a new home for your snake plant.
Just get a new dog? Might be time to find a new home for your snake plant.
![Young Man With Retriever Puppy]()
The research is confusing — here are some guidelines.
![Woman taking temperature of her brown dog.]()
Don’t be scared. Follow these steps.
![Dog standing in the bathtub covered with a green towel after a bath.]()
healthHow to Express Dog Anal Glands Safely and Effectively at Home
Yeah, it’s super gross — but your pup will thank you.
Yeah, it’s super gross — but your pup will thank you.
![Owner pets senior ginger cat.]()
How to spot and how to treat them.
![Woman taking care of her sick dog at home.]()
healthCan Dogs Take Aspirin? A Guide to Dog Pain Medication
There are safer alternatives, and you should always, always check with a vet before giving your pup anything.
There are safer alternatives, and you should always, always check with a vet before giving your pup anything.
![Happy woman at home cuddling on bed with cute jack russell dog.]()
healthGabapentin for Dog Seizures: Treatment, Dosage, and Side Effects
Everything you need to know about the anti-seizure medication.
Everything you need to know about the anti-seizure medication.
![Woman gardener with cat in garden.]()
healthIt’s All a Little Poopy: Toxoplasmosis in Cats
Scoop cat poop early and often—and keep it away from your garden.
Scoop cat poop early and often—and keep it away from your garden.
![Happy stylish latino queer person looking comfortable on porch steps with gray cat.]()
healthCats Lifespan: How Long Do Cats Live? And What to Expect
They are the absolute light of your life. Here’s how you can help them live as close to forever as possible.
They are the absolute light of your life. Here’s how you can help them live as close to forever as possible.
![Siberian cat licking her paw outdoors.]()
healthWhat to Know About Tapeworms in Cats
What to look for and how to treat this (and be able to eat rice again).
What to look for and how to treat this (and be able to eat rice again).
![Beautiful playful tabby cat lying on the living room floor, playing with a ball of string.]()
healthHow to Treat Intestinal Blockages in Cats
If you see a string sticking out from, uh, behind, never, ever, ever pull on it.
If you see a string sticking out from, uh, behind, never, ever, ever pull on it.
![Cat napping on a yellow couch against a yellow background]()
healthDoes My Cat Have Zits?
Paging Dr. Pimple Popper, DVM. Until then, a vet has tips on how to treat your cat’s acne.
Paging Dr. Pimple Popper, DVM. Until then, a vet has tips on how to treat your cat’s acne.
- health
What to Know About Runny Noses in Cats
Nasal discharge doesn’t sound cute, but you need to know what to look out for.
Nasal discharge doesn’t sound cute, but you need to know what to look out for.
![Tabby cat leaning into a porcelain sink, tail curled in the air, as it sticks its tongue out to drink water from the faucet.]()
healthWhy Is My Cat So Damn Thirsty?
No, not like that. They’re literally drinking a lot of water. Here’s when you should be worried.
No, not like that. They’re literally drinking a lot of water. Here’s when you should be worried.
![Uncomfortable looking gray cat sitting on a window sill]()
Here are six good reasons to haul tail to the emergency room.
![Brown Gray Cat Lounging on Red Arm Chair Near Green Plant]()
healthCat Jumping Off the Literal Walls? They Could Have Hyperthyroidism
Everything you need to know about the common disease.
Everything you need to know about the common disease.
![White-and-brown cat sitting on a side table by a lamp with their mouth open, gagging]()
It’s not always an emergency — but it could be.
![A happy woman is lying on a bed, her dog smelling her face.]()
health9 Diseases You Can (and Definitely Can’t) Catch From Your Dog
Here’s what you can scratch off your “Worry About This” list.
Here’s what you can scratch off your “Worry About This” list.
![Siamese cat coughing]()
You thought it was a hairball, but nothing’s coming up…
![Two dog chasing each other playfully in a prairie field outside]()
healthDon’t Worry, But Dogs Can Get Cancer From Sniffing Other Dogs’ Nether-Regions
The gnarly scoop on canine transmissible venereal tumors.
The gnarly scoop on canine transmissible venereal tumors.
![Kitten sitting on a blanket]()
lifestyle7 Steps to Keep Your New Kitten Happy and Healthy
With great cuteness comes great responsibility. A vet breaks down everything you need to know when you bring home a new kitten.
With great cuteness comes great responsibility. A vet breaks down everything you need to know when you bring home a new kitten.
![A woman lovingly petting a dog.]()
healthRocky Mountain Spotted Fever Cases Are on the Rise
Yikes! A new strain of tick-borne disease Rickettsia could infect pets and their people.
Yikes! A new strain of tick-borne disease Rickettsia could infect pets and their people.
![A senior cat is held in their owner's lap]()
healthHow to Care for Your Senior Cat
From taking them to the vet more often to giving them a hand with grooming, older kitties need a little extra TLC.
From taking them to the vet more often to giving them a hand with grooming, older kitties need a little extra TLC.
![Constipated German Shepherd being comforted by its owner]()
What to do when your pup can’t poop.
