Upper respiratory infections in cats are similar to colds in humans, and while they are often nothing to worry about, they can have serious consequences, particularly in shelters, where they are among the top reasons why shelter cats are put down. In this podcast, Dr. Kate Hurley, director of the Koret Shelter Medicine Program at the University of California-Davis, talks about feline upper respiratory infections and her current research on the subject.

Destructive behavior, such as scratching furniture, is one of the leading reasons people give up on pet cats. Declawing is one method of addressing the problem, but what if you don't want to declaw your cat, or live in an area that doesn't allow the procedure? Dr. Bonnie Beaver, a veterinary behaviorist and past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, offers tips on how to keep your kitty's claws from ripping up your furniture.

When selecting a pet for your family, reptiles are often overlooked, but they are fascinating creatures and include some of the most ancient species on Earth. Pet reptiles are also a great alternative to cats and dogs because they require less daily care and exercise. Before choosing a reptile, people must take many things into consideration, including how the pet can fit within their lifestyle and whether or not a pet reptile is an affordable option. Dr. Adolf Maas, owner of the Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital in Bothell, Wash., talks about selecting a pet reptile.

Clean, affectionate, and sociable, rabbits can make excellent house pets, but selecting a rabbit takes a lot of time and consideration. Some important things to think about include the rabbit's breed, your lifestyle and what owning a rabbit will cost. Potential owners must also educate themselves about the care, housing, feeding, and socialization needs of a pet rabbit. In this podcast, Dr. Cathy Johnson-Delaney, president of the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians, talks about selecting a pet rabbit.

February marks the 16th anniversary of National Pet Dental Health Month. Far from just a cosmetic issue, bad breath and yellow teeth can be a sign of serious disease in our pets, which may affect their kidneys, livers, and hearts. Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for pets, and 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats by age 3, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society. Dr. Linda DeBowes, veterinarian at Shoreline Veterinary Dental Clinic in Seattle, talks about the importance of dental health for our pets.