Bringing home a new puppy, kitten, or adopted pet? Enjoy a free first exam, free parasite prevention, and more with our Welcome Home savings!

New Pet Exam & Preventive Care Savings | Welcome Home

Shop your veterinarian's online pharmacy for pet medications, preventatives, and prescription food. Enjoy home delivery, AutoShip, and savings.

Online Veterinary Pharmacy: Home Delivery & Savings

Keep your dog or cat safe this Halloween with tips for managing anxiety, preventing escapes, avoiding toxic treats, and reducing holiday hazards.

Halloween Safety for Pets: 5 Tips for Dogs and Cats

Learn how to recognize signs your pet may be overweight and discover simple ways to support a healthy weight through nutrition, activity, and veterinary care.

Pet Obesity Awareness Month: Healthy Weight Tips

Prepare your pet for the unexpected this National Preparedness Month with tips for emergency kits, evacuation plans, identification, medications, and more.

National Preparedness Month: How to Prepare Your Pet for an Emergency

Sat Apr 05 2025 01:45:19 GMT+0530 (India Standard Time)

Demanes 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

download-app-section

blogs-page

blogs-section

book-appointment-page

book-appointment-section

Embedded content

care-memberships

care-plan

career-page

careers-section

Dr. Roy Madigan, D.V.M., is not just a veterinarian. He is one of the leading experts in canine Chagas disease in the United States.
 
• Founder of Vida Pharmacal, focused on breakthrough parasitic disease treatments
 • Filed the first veterinary drug patent for anti-T. cruzi activity in dogs
 • Principal scientist for the U.S. military working dog Chagas treatment study
 • Veterinary lead for the Texas Chagas Task Force alongside the CDC and UT Health
 • Pioneer in developing diagnostic and treatment protocols for infected dogs
 
Your pet is being treated by the same expert helping shape how Chagas disease is understood nationwide.

Get In Touch

Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:
 
 • The more treatment options are available
 • The better heart damage can be managed
 • The higher the chance of improving quality of life
 
Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.

Early Detection. Advanced Treatment. Led by One of the Nation’s Top Experts.

Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:
 
 • Lethargy or decreased activity
 • Fainting or collapse
 • Irregular heartbeat
 • Difficulty breathing
 • Unexplained weight loss
 
If your dog spends time outdoors, lives in Central Texas, or has been exposed to insects, they may be at risk even without symptoms.

If your dog may have been exposed to kissing bugs, do not wait. Chagas disease can silently damage the heart before symptoms appear. Early diagnosis can make the difference.

At Central Texas Vet, we go beyond standard testing.
Dr. Madigan is actively developing advanced serologic testing methods to improve detection accuracy.
 
Your dog’s evaluation may include:
 
 • Comprehensive physical exam
 • Cardiac screening
 • Specialized blood testing for T. cruzi
 • Advanced diagnostics when needed
 
Early detection allows for better management and improved outcomes.

Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted by “kissing bugs” commonly found in Texas.
Once infected, dogs may appear normal while the parasite attacks the heart and other organs.
 
Without intervention, Chagas can lead to:
 
 • Heart disease
 • Arrhythmias
 • Sudden death

Questions? We Have Answers

If your dog may be at risk, schedule an evaluation today and get answers from one of the leading experts in the field.

chagas-disease

At The Animal Hospital of Smithson Valley, we go beyond standard testing.Dr. Madigan is actively developing advanced serologic testing methods to improve detection accuracy.Your dog’s evaluation may include:<ul><li>Comprehensive physical exam</li><li>Cardiac screening</li><li>Specialized blood testing for T. cruzi</li><li>Advanced diagnostics when needed</li></ul>Early detection allows for better management and improved outcomes.

Dr. Roy Madigan, D.V.M., is not just a veterinarian. He is one of the leading experts in canine Chagas disease in the United States.<ul><li>Founder of Vida Pharmacal, focused on breakthrough parasitic disease treatments</li><li>Filed the first veterinary drug patent for anti-T. cruzi activity in dogs</li><li>Principal scientist for the U.S. military working dog Chagas treatment study</li><li>Veterinary lead for the Texas Chagas Task Force alongside the CDC and UT Health</li><li>Pioneer in developing diagnostic and treatment protocols for infected dogs</li></ul>Your pet is being treated by the same expert helping shape how Chagas disease is understood nationwide.

Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted by “kissing bugs” commonly found in Texas.Once infected, dogs may appear normal while the parasite attacks the heart and other organs.Without intervention, Chagas can lead to:<ul><li>Sudden death</li><li>Heart disease</li><li>Arrhythmias</li></ul>

Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:<ul><li>The more treatment options are available</li><li>The better heart damage can be managed</li><li>The higher the chance of improving quality of life</li></ul>Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.

Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:<ul><li>Lethargy or decreased activity</li><li>Fainting or collapse</li><li>Irregular heartbeat</li><li>Difficulty breathing</li><li>Unexplained weight loss</li></ul>If your dog spends time outdoors, lives in Central Texas, or has been exposed to insects, they may be at risk even without symptoms.

chagas-disease-ahsv

Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:
 
 • The more treatment options are available
 • The better heart damage can be managed
 • The higher the chance of improving quality of&nbsp; life
 
Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.<div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div>

Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:
 
 • Lethargy or decreased activity
 • Fainting or collapse
 • Irregular heartbeat
 • Difficulty breathing
 • Unexplained weight loss
 
If your dog spends time outdoors, lives in Central Texas, or has been exposed to insects, they may be at risk even without symptoms.<div> </div><div> </div>

chagas-disease-ctv

Please call (309) 686-1383 to book an appointment, or "Request an Appointment" in the widget below.

contact-us

copy-of-chagas-disease

Accordion Title

#1f2937

forms-page

form-section

get-in-touch

landing-page

contact-us-section

cta-bar

emergency-branches

faq-section

footer-section

hero-section

navigation-section

otto-widget-section

our-services-section

testimonials-section

vetstoria-widget-section

Financial Aid:

Obedience:

Local Dog Parks:

Boarding Kennels In Our Area:

Microchipping:

Doggie Daycare in our Area:

Adoptions:

General Information:

links-and-resources

news-page

our-history-page

Our East Side Entrance is located on Early Street, across from the Hanover Apartment Building. Our North Side Entrance is located on Irby Avenue, across from Woody’s Cheesesteak.

parking

payment-info-page

payment-information-section

payment-section-3

promotions

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

We’ve all seen the memes since this COVID-19 pandemic started about dogs who have had enough of you walking them, thank you very much. And in turn, the cat memes are all about them wondering when we are going back to work and giving them their much-needed personal space back. We get it. Dogs tend to be goofy and friendly, while cats are, ahem, a bit more discerning about their company. The truth is, though, cats have plenty of different personality types, and many of them do experience separation anxiety. This is particularly true of cats who were orphaned. And with many of you going back to work, if you haven’t gone back already, it’s a good idea to know the signs of separation anxiety in cats.<h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.2">What Are the Signs My Cat May Be Experiencing Separation Anxiety?</h2><h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.2">While every cat has a different personality, the general signs of separation anxiety in felines are:</h3><ol><li>Excessive meowing, crying, or moaning</li><li>Eating too fast or not eating at all</li><li>Excessive self-grooming</li><li>Elimination outside the litter box</li><li>Destructive behavior</li><li>Excitement upon returning from home is out of the ordinary</li><li>Vomiting food or hairballs</li><li>Trying to escape</li></ol>As veterinarians and pet owners, we know that some of these things can be frustrating, particularly the elimination outside the litter box. Many cat owners have gotten the “gift’ of defecation on the bed, in a shoe, or on an item of clothing. It’s important to remember that this isn’t necessarily a sign of spiteful behavior, but can often mean that your cat is looking to mix their scent with yours. Cats believe they are also helping you find your way home. Instincts run deep!<h2 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.2">What Can I Do if My Cat Shows Signs of Separation Anxiety?</h2>Thankfully, there are things you can buy and actions you can take to minimize the anxiety your cat may begin to feel when you return to work or other activities outside the house.<h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: left; line-height: 1.2">Some of the ways to minimize separation anxiety in cats are as follows:</h3><ul><li>Leave the radio or TV on a station that is often on when you’re there</li><li>Keep arrivals and departures low-key (hint: Don’t announce, “Mommy is leaving!”)</li><li>Create a nook, haven, or refuge for your cat that is their safe space</li><li>Provide plenty of toys and/or puzzles for playtime while you are gone</li><li>Channel prey instincts by hiding food in toys that make them work for it</li><li>Start with shorter absences first</li><li>Provide a perch or “catio” so that your cat can see their favorite views</li><li>Consider a room diffuser or pheromones to provide a calming scent for your cat (check the safety of this with your vet first)</li><li>Remove departure cues (ie, put your keys in your pocket a few minutes before leaving)</li><li>Provide plenty of cuddles and playtime once home</li><li>For more serious cases, consider having a sitter come for 1-2 play sessions during absences</li></ul>We cannot emphasize enough the importance of checking with your veterinarian when you see any change in your cat’s behavior before you chalk it up to separation anxiety, as early treatment of illnesses is crucial to cat wellness. For example, some cats go outside the litter box when they have urinary tract infections.In extreme cases, medication may be an option, but your vet will usually leave that as a final alternative. As the ASPCA notes, "Sometimes for cats, veterinarians will advise using pheromones or calming treats before prescribing medication. Always consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist before giving your dog or cat any type of medication or supplement for a behavior problem."If you have any other questions about this or how to deal with anxiety in your cat, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.

This is particularly true of cats who were orphaned. And with many of you going back to work, if you haven't gone back already, it's a good idea to know the signs of separation anxiety in cats.

8 Signs of Separation Anxiety in Cats And What to Do About Them

facebook_pixel_67f03dd653dc857452f00d38

gtm_67f03dd653dc857452f00d38

Join our veterinary team at Demanes Animal Hospital!

demanesanimalhospital

Please select from the below forms to get started:

Compassionate and quality care for your pet.

Easily book your next appointment online or give us a call, well find a time that works best for you.

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

With Otto, we are continuing our commitment to providing exceptional care for your furry friends!

Connect with Demanes Animal Hospital on the Otto App!

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 no-interest payment plan through CareCredit.

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

Free Exam for New Clients! See Below for Details.

Referring Vet

Consult Online

Online Store

Pet Portal

Forms

Download App

Appt. Request

Below are some answers to our most common questions.

Additional Services

General Services

Speciality Services

Give us a call, and we will find a time that works best for you.

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

Nutrition is the foundation of good health, and a powerful tool in managing weight, energy, chronic conditions, and even behavior.

Pet Nutrition

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

We are committed to offering exceptional ophthalmology treatment.

Veterinary Ophthalmology

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 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

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

Enhance your pet's recovery and mobility with custom rehabilitation at (). Our expert team uses therapeutic exercise, laser therapy, and underwater treadmill sessions to reduce pain, rebuild strength, and restore comfort. Schedule your pet's rehab consultation today.

Pet Rehabilitation

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

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

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

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

Pet Surgeries

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

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

Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

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.

Spay And Neuter

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.

Sheet title

8 Signs of Separation Anxiety in Cats And What to Do About Them

Recent Blogs

Related Blogs

Why Do Cats Vomit Hairballs and How to Prevent?

How to Remove a Tick from a Dog?

Feline Leukemia: Symptoms and Treatments for Cats

FAQs Of Demanes Animal Hospital

Sheet title

8 Signs of Separation Anxiety in Cats And What to Do About Them

Recent Blogs

New Pet Exam & Preventive Care Savings | Welcome Home

Online Veterinary Pharmacy: Home Delivery & Savings

Halloween Safety for Pets: 5 Tips for Dogs and Cats

Related Blogs

Why Do Cats Vomit Hairballs and How to Prevent?

How to Remove a Tick from a Dog?

Feline Leukemia: Symptoms and Treatments for Cats

FAQs Of Demanes Animal Hospital

How can new clients claim a free veterinary exam for their pet?

Do you accept walk-ins?

Is Demanes Animal Hospital open on Saturdays?

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

Do you offer pet dental care services?

What are the most common health issues for senior pets?