The latest issue of Pet Candy Magazine is here!
If you've been paying attention, you've probably noticed something happening: cats are officially taking over. Not just your couch, your keyboard, or that warm spot on your bed—but the entire pet world. In 2025, feline ownership has surged, multi-cat households are the new normal, and cats have once again conquered the internet with viral trends that make us laugh, cry, and wonder why we ever doubted their supremacy.
This issue celebrates that feline revolution while also shining a light on something more serious: the silent suffering too many cats endure because we're not recognizing their pain. New research reveals we're missing osteoarthritis in up to 98% of cats—not because the signs aren't there, but because cats are so skilled at hiding discomfort that we've become blind to their struggles. It's a wake-up call for every cat owner: those subtle behavior changes we attribute to "just getting old" might actually be treatable pain.
But this issue isn't just about cats (though they're definitely stealing the show). We are introducing you to veterinarian Ben Waites, who is on a mission to eliminate rabies isn’t just a job — it’s personal. His journey began thousands of miles from where he works today, in a childhood surrounded by free-roaming dogs and the ever-present fear of a deadly virus.
And because it's November and December, we're embracing the holiday spirit with everything from gift guides and winter getaway ideas to heartwarming stories about hero dogs who've changed lives and communities. We're celebrating Sgt. Bo, the scrappy rescue who became a therapy dog and helped heal a community after tragedy. We're exploring what your cat is really trying to tell you (spoiler: probably that you're petting them wrong). And we're giving you permission to turn your veterinary conference into an actual vacation—because you've earned it.
The holidays can be complicated for pet owners. There's the joy of celebration mixed with the stress of travel, the excitement of family gatherings combined with anxiety about how pets will handle the chaos, and the pressure to make everything perfect when sometimes just making it through is enough. This issue acknowledges that complexity while offering practical tips, inspiring stories, and a reminder that the best gift we can give our pets is understanding—understanding their needs, their communication, and their pain.
So whether you're a devoted cat person celebrating the feline takeover, a dog lover inspired by heroic rescues, or just someone trying to survive the holidays with your sanity and your pet's wellbeing intact, this issue has something for you.
Here's to ending 2025 with more awareness, more compassion, and maybe a few extra cats. Special thanks to Zoetis for sponsoring this issue!
With warmth and whiskers,
Dr. Jill Lopez
Pet Candy Editor in Chief
P.S. If you're still convinced your cat is just lazy and not in pain, please read page 14. Your cat will thank you—in their own mysterious, enigmatic way.
