About Lee Pickett

Lee Pickett

Lee Pickett

Veterinarian Lee Pickett, VMD, practices companion animal medicine in North Carolina and writes “Ask the Vet,” a weekly veterinary advice column. In addition, she writes magazine articles on pet health care and volunteers with animal shelters, rescue groups, agricultural organizations and emergency response teams.

Dr. Pickett developed and taught a course on Veterinary Medicine for Pet People and co-founded PetNet to provide foster care for animals affected by domestic violence. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Dr. A. Wayne Mountan Memorial Media Award from the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association, the Maxwell Medal from the Dog Writers Association of America, and the University of Pennsylvania Mikus Prize for “proficiency in the practice of veterinary medicine and upholding the principles of veterinary medical ethics.” She was profiled in a Philadelphia magazine cover story on Great Vets and has appeared on television news segments and animal shows.

She graduated from Hartwick College and the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.

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Cat's Lymphoma Not Contagious Apr 16, 2026

Q: My cat has lymphoma. I know humans also get this type of cancer. Is it possible for my cat to give me her lymphoma? A: No. Cancers are not transmitted from pets to people, or for that matter, from one person to another. Cats infected with FeLV, th... Read More

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Hamsters Prefer Large Metal Exercise Wheels Apr 09, 2026

Q: My hamster, Cheeky, doesn't use his exercise wheel. My friends' hamsters all do. Is Cheeky just lazy, or should I get him a different wheel? A: Most hamsters enjoy their wheels, although some don't, just like some people don't relish jogging on a ... Read More

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Dog's Red Eye Needs Immediate Care Apr 02, 2026

Q: My dog recently developed a red eye. What causes this? Should I try putting human eye drops in his eye? A: A red eye can result from any number of diseases, some of which threaten vision if not addressed quickly. So, when you see a red eye, take y... Read More

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Painful Tooth Resorption Common in Cats Mar 26, 2026

Q: The veterinarian says my cat has tooth resorption, so I made an appointment for her to have dental X-rays and probably tooth extraction. What can you tell me about this condition? A: Tooth resorption, previously called feline odontoclastic resorpt... Read More