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Dr. Marta

Vidal-Abarca

In-House Veterinarian, BVSc GPCert (Ophthal) MRCVS

Experience

More than 16 years of veterinary experience

Location

Graduated from the Cardenal Herrera-CEU University in Valencia, Spain

About

Dr. Marta has over 16 years of veterinary experience, working across the UK and Spain as a remote veterinary consultant and in the clinic. She graduated from Cardenal Herrera-CEU University in Valencia, Spain. She holds two Ophthalmology Certificates, GPCert Ophthal from ESVPS and UAB. She has wide experience in small animal internal medicine and surgery with a soft spot for cats. Marta is a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, and her main fields of interest are ophthalmology and critical care medicine. Dr. Marta loves being able to share the most helpful information with pet parents across the world as one of Catster’s in-house veterinarians. She wants to provide details that can help in all aspects of pets’ lives with their beloved ones. She loves knowing that she can support our readers and communicate about any medical topic that might be relevant to their pet’s health and well-being.

Archive

Is Your Cat Winking, or in Pain? 4 Eye Problems Every Owner Should Know

Think your cat is just winking at you in a mysterious, adorable way? Think again! If your furry friend keeps one eye closed most of the time, it might be more than a quirky habit. It could signal an underlying...

A photo of a lazy Cat winking at the camera

Say Goodbye to Fleas (and Hello to Happy Cats!)

If your cat has been scratching, biting, or losing fur, fleas could be the reason. These tiny pests can make your cat uncomfortable and quickly spread around your home. Fortunately, most flea problems can be solved with a few at-home...

vet holding magnifying glass searching cat fleas over a grey and orange cat

Your Houseplants Could Harm Your Cat — But These 12 Vet-Approved Ones Won’t!

Love the look of a leafy, plant-filled home, but stressed about what your curious cat might nibble next? You’re not alone. Many popular houseplants are toxic to cats, which makes decorating feel like a dangerous guessing game. But the good...

Tortoiseshell-looking-at-succulents-plant-in-a-pot_

11 Best Cat Brushes in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Regardless of whether you own a fluffy Persian or a smooth Siamese, regular brushing is essential to remove any shedding hair before it makes its way into your home. For cats with longer coats, daily brushing will help prevent any...

fluffy orange cat lies on bed with Hepper Brush

Why Do Cats Have Slit Pupils? Feline Anatomy Explained (Vet-Verified)

Do you ever sit and watch your kitty at play, chasing after a bug or looking intently out the window, and wonder how they see the world? Feline eyes have some similarities to human eyes but also have differences; for...

tabby cat lying on cat tree

How to Get a Vet Prescription Online: 9 Steps & What to Expect

Your cat has been shaking their head nonstop, and it looks like they have an ear infection. You call the vet’s office to see when they can fit you in for an appointment. They say in five days. Frustrated, you...

Woman With Pet Cockapoo Dog Researching Insurance On Laptop At Home

National Pet Travel Safety Day 2025: When Is It & Useful Tips (Vet-Verified)

National Pet Travel Safety Day comes around every year on January 2nd. It’s a time when pet lovers, veterinarians, and animal welfare organizations get the word out about safely traveling with pets, specifically the importance of restraining dogs and cats...

A bengal cat inside a carrier beside some suitcases

Do Cats Protect Their Owners? Vet-Verified Facts & Signs

When we think of protective pets, we tend to think of dogs. However, cats may exhibit behaviors that appear protective when they perceive a threat to themselves or their family. While their small size typically means they rely more on...

Abyssinian cat on a man's shoulder

Cat Pupils: Eye Meaning Explained (Vet-Verified)

The proverb “The eye is the window to the soul,” is fitting when it comes to cats. They use it to communicate a broad spectrum of emotions. We can even tell when something is wrong by looking at our cat’s...

Chocolate point doll faced himalayan cat

My Cat Isn’t Affectionate Anymore: 7 Vet-Reviewed Possible Reasons

If your cat has suddenly stopped being affectionate, it can be unsettling. However, it likely isn’t because of anything you did. Cats can be sensitive creatures and may react negatively to things that we don’t even realize happened, changing their...

hand touching cat's paw

Why Does My Cat Cry When I Leave? Vet-Verified Reasons & Solutions

While cats are often considered not to be terribly interested in people, they’re actually sensitive, loving creatures that become deeply attached to those they share their lives with. Companion cats develop bonds with their people that resemble those formed between...

Cat meowing

Are Emotional Support Vests Necessary for Cats? Vet-Verified Recommendations & FAQ

Emotional support animals (ESAs) are one type of assistance animals, however, they are different from service animals and, therefore, are subject to their own requirements and considerations. They are any animal species with no specific training that provide comfort and...

a woman and her cat with harness and leash sitting on the bench at the park

Why Do Some Black Cats Have Orange Eyes? Vet Approved Facts & FAQ

Black cats are gorgeous with their stunning, inky, velvet coats and expressive eyes. Because of how dark their fur is, their eyes seem to stand out even more. Most black cats will have irises with one of three colors: yellow/gold,...

Scottish Fold black cat sitting on the grass

Why Do Cats Stick Their Tongue Out While Sleeping? 4 Vet-Reviewed Possible Reasons

Cats stick their tongues out often, usually to the delight of their owners. You may even notice your cat sleeping with their tongue out, which can be alarming. There are a few reasons for your cat to be sticking their...

ginger cat sleeping with tongue out

How Much Cat Litter Per Month Should You Use? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

There are many pleasant aspects of cat ownership, but litterbox duty isn’t among them. Still, it is essential to care for your cat, so ensuring that you provide the cleanest litter box possible for your pet is paramount. While litter...

cat sniffing litter in the box