Our pets, especially cats, appear to be more sensitive to the toxicity of certain essential oils. Symptoms of poisoning vary depending on the route of exposure, whether respiratory, dermal, or oral when an animal licks oil from its fur. The most common signs include gastrointestinal, neurological and respiratory issues, as well as skin irritation.

Because cats groom themselves frequently, they are often more affected. Essential oils are lipophilic, meaning they are easily absorbed through the skin, respiratory tract and digestive system. These substances can quickly penetrate muscle and fatty tissues, including nerve tissue.

Studies still limited

Unfortunately, research on the mechanisms behind essential oil poisoning in animals is still limited. Toxicological studies often focus on individual components rather than the combined effects of multiple compounds. As a result, there are still gaps in our understanding of how these substances affect animal health.

However, we do know that essential oils can be readily absorbed through the skin, respiratory tract and digestive system, and that their elimination may take longer in some animals due to their specific metabolism. In addition, their use as an alternative to certain treatments can increase the risk of poisoning. This can occur, for example, when essential oils are used as alternatives to flea treatments, which can increase exposure and therefore the risk of toxicity.

In summary, although essential oils may seem harmless because of their natural origin, they can pose risks to our pets. Research has not yet fully clarified their mechanisms of action and toxic effects in animals, but further studies will hopefully provide a better understanding in the future.

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Worth revisiting!

Please note that these articles are available in French only.

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I had fun imagining the names that could be all the rage in Quebec in 2026. Here are my predictions… Do they inspire you?

CATS

ChatGPT
Artificial intelligence is now part of our daily lives. A name this clever is hard to ignore!

Stat
The TV series STAT continues to captivate Quebec. A perfect name for a quick, curious cat who’s always on the move.

Mandy
A nod to a restaurant chain we all love, everyone has their favorite salad there. A sweet, warm, and slightly indulgent name.

Charlotte
Inspired by Charlotte Cardin, an artist I really love. An elegant, gentle, and radiant name.

Kukum
A reference to Michel Jean’s novel that touched many readers and reached far beyond our borders. A tender name, rich in meaning and history.

Horace
Inspired by the Quebec jewelry brand. Delicate, elegant, and proudly local, perfect for a refined cat with a noble posture.

Keanu
Like actor Keanu Reeves, who is Canadian. For a calm, observant cat with quiet strength… and a name you can stretch out when calling: “Keaaaanuuu” (almost like a meow!).

Chani
Drawn from the ever-present Dune universe. A soft, airy, slightly mystical name.

Miso
A wink to the comfort-bowl trend. For a sweet and cuddly cat.

Oolong
Like the tea I adore: aromatic, comforting, and a little zen.

DOGS

Pixel
Short, cute, and modern. Perfect for a small, alert, energetic dog.

Oka
Like Quebec’s beloved cheese. Simple, gentle, and authentic, ideal for a big-hearted dog.

Jay
As in Jay Du Temple. Approachable, warm, and always in a good mood. One syllable makes for an effective recall.

Moka
As comforting as a hot drink on a winter day.

Boréal
A name that evokes our forests, clear northern nights, and our Nordic spirit. Soft, beautiful, and deeply local.

Fouki
The rapper with the contagious smile you hear everywhere. For a joyful, lively, slightly mischievous dog!

Flair
The nickname of your favorite magazine, just as charming in French as in English.

Matcha
The iconic neighborhood café drink. For a gentle, sociable, slightly “velcro” dog.

McIntosh
Because Quebec is a major apple producer. A gentle, familiar, and warm name that’s easy to say every day.

Mocktail
Non-alcoholic drinks are having a moment. A light, sociable name with a touch of humor.

Bot
A little nod to the technology taking up space in our lives. For a smart, curious, energetic dog.

Shiatsu
Because nothing compares to the well-being of a good massage. And I bet Shih Tzu owners will love the wordplay.

And you? What is your four-legged companion’s name, and why?

Tell me : behind every name, there’s a story, a memory, or a spark of love.

The post Pet Name Trends 2026: Possible top names for cats and dogs appeared first on Flair & cie.

Caring for farm animals

The idea of becoming a rural bovine veterinarian came to me relatively late in my studies. In fact, I had to try out different areas of veterinary medicine before figuring out what I liked and what I didn’t. That’s the beauty of veterinary medicine: there are so many paths to explore. There’s truly a “hoof for every claw,” so to speak.

I knew I wanted to work in a rural setting, to be on the road and independent while still being part of a team. I also wanted to work with large animals that would challenge me both mentally and physically. I hoped to build genuine relationships with clients who value the work I do. So, I did internships in bovine practice, what we affectionately call being a “cow vet,” and I discovered the amazing world of agriculture. I fell in love with it, and it became my career.

To be a good vet in the dairy world, you need to be a people person and enjoy collaborating with farmers and others in the field. You must be humble enough to know you don’t have all the answers, and not be afraid of getting dirty (especially when you’re 5 foot 3 like me!). And while you don’t need to be an Olympic athlete, you do have to enjoy being active.

Rural veterinarian: a dream job

I quickly fell in love with my work. With my trusty toolbox in hand and wearing my farm-scented overalls, I hop into my car each morning like I’m heading off on a new adventure. I love that my days are planned yet still full of surprises, big and small. This pushes me to be adaptable and develop good stress and time management skills. In summer, I love driving with the windows down, listening to country music, and picking up a basket of fresh raspberries along the way. In winter, I love knowing I can always call one of my loyal clients if I ever end up in a ditch! Joking aside, farmers are incredibly generous people, always ready to lend a hand. Many have become friends. They know how devoted and passionate I am about my job, and they also know my feisty Jersey bull attitude.

And being a bit of a foodie, I’ll admit that having access to fresh meat, cheese, and maple products straight from the source is a definite perk.

In short, I’m incredibly lucky to have found a profession I’m passionate about. I get to be part of a tight-knit and dynamic team. We always have lots of projects, team activities, and continuing education. Like any workplace, it’s important to feel supported and know you can count on your colleagues when needed. Even when I’m out on the road, all it takes is a quick phone call to chat with a teammate or ask for help. I really am so fortunate. I truly hope that all of you get to do what you love and feel just as fulfilled.

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