Mild Weather, Real Risks
Autumn in Katy, Texas, brings cooler mornings and busy weekends, but for pets, November is still an active season for parasites and environmental allergens. Because our climate is relatively mild, fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes rarely take a full winter break. That means a brief lapse in prevention can open the door to itching, infections, and, most concerning, heartworm disease. At Circle B Veterinary Hospital, we help families keep prevention on track as the year winds down, so your companion enters the holidays healthy, comfortable, and ready for all the extra cuddles.
Even a few warm days can reignite parasite activity. Fleas cause relentless scratching, skin infections, and can transmit tapeworms; ticks spread bacterial diseases; and mosquitoes carry heartworm larvae that quietly mature in a pet’s body over months. Skipping doses in late fall can create a gap that parasites exploit, especially when holiday travel and houseguests change routines. The safest strategy is year-round protection paired with periodic testing. If you’ve missed a dose or aren’t sure which product best fits your pet’s age, weight, and lifestyle, the medical team at Circle B Veterinary Hospital can guide you quickly, so you don’t lose ground.
Your November parasite plan (short list):
• Stay current on monthly heartworm, flea, and tick preventives.
• Schedule testing if you’ve missed doses or changed products.
Ragweed, molds, and household dust can irritate sensitive pets. Dry indoor air from heaters may worsen skin and ear issues, and fall lawn work can stir up debris that clings to paws and fur. If you notice scratching, paw licking, head shaking, flaky skin, or red patches, schedule a visit. We’ll examine skin and ears, rule out infections, and discuss topical therapies, medicated shampoos, diet adjustments, or long-term itch control options tailored to your pet. Cats and dogs with recurring ear problems often benefit from an allergy plan that includes regular cleanings and targeted medications rather than sporadic “quick fixes.”
Small changes that help (short list):
• Bathe with a veterinarian-recommended shampoo and rinse thoroughly.
• Wash bedding weekly; vacuum and change air filters regularly.
• Wipe paws after outdoor play to remove allergens and debris.
November is a smart time to schedule a wellness exam that includes dental and weight assessments before routines shift. Dental tartar and early gum disease are common, and surprisingly painful, yet they can be easy to miss under holiday bustle. Addressing oral health now helps prevent bigger problems (and bad breath) later. We’ll evaluate the mouth, discuss home care options that actually fit your schedule, and map out professional cleaning if needed. On the nutrition side, we’ll review caloric needs and treat strategies so “little extras” don’t turn into winter weight gain. If your pet has joint concerns, even a modest weight reduction can ease strain and improve mobility, making walks more enjoyable during our cooler afternoons in Katy, Texas.
Mild cold snaps can aggravate arthritis and make old injuries ache. Supportive bedding, non-slip mats, and short, frequent walks keep joints moving without overdoing it. Gentle warm-ups before play and a minute or two of cool-down afterward can also reduce stiffness. Ask us about joint supplements, pain-relief strategies, laser therapy, or acupuncture. Multimodal care often delivers the best comfort with the fewest side effects. If you’re noticing changes such as hesitating on stairs, difficulty rising, or restlessness at night, a focused senior exam can reveal whether pain, vision, hearing, or cognitive shifts are at play. With a tailored plan from Circle B Veterinary Hospital, many seniors quickly rediscover their daily rhythms and favorite routines.
A few thoughtful steps in November can protect your pet’s health well into the new year. Keep preventives current, tidy up allergy triggers, check teeth and weight before the holidays, and give seniors a little extra support as temperatures dip. If you’re due for a wellness check, parasite refill, or skin evaluation, contact Circle B Veterinary Hospital in Katy, Texas. Our warm, knowledgeable team will tailor a plan that keeps your companion comfortable, protected, and ready for everything the season brings, because peace of mind is the best gift you can give.