An abscess is a pocket of pus surrounded by an area of inflamed tissue. Abscesses are common in dogs and cats, and can cause painful and uncomfortable symptoms. If left untreated, infected abscesses can lead to potentially serious health problems in pets. Causes of Abscesses Abscesses form when bacteria invade a wound and the body […]
Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux, is a condition in which fluids from the stomach and intestines flow backwards into the esophagus. It is seen in both dogs and cats, and can cause uncomfortable and potentially dangerous symptoms. Acid reflux in pets can occur at any age, although younger dogs and cats are more […]
Acne is an inflammatory skin disorder than can affect both cats and dogs. Just as in humans, the condition is not considered serious and usually improves over time. Causes of Acne Acne is caused by a buildup of skin debris and sebum, an oil secreted from the sebaceous glands. This leads to clogging of the […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Allergies are overreactions of the immune system to substances known as allergens. A wide range of symptoms including skin irritation and respiratory problems can develop when a pet’s body tries to rid itself of allergens. Allergies are common in cats, dogs and other pets. Causes of Allergies Pets can suffer from three main types of […]
The anal glands are two small sacs located on either side of a dog or cat’s anus. They produce an oily, foul-smelling liquid that pets use to mark their territory. Usually, the anal glands are drained when your pet has a bowel movement. Anal gland problems occur when the glands become impacted and are unable to […]
Red blood cells are a type of cell that are produced in the bone marrow. They contain a protein called hemoglobin that carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues of the body. Anemia is a condition in which there is a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood. Pets with the […]
Aspiration pneumonia is a condition in which the lungs become inflamed and infected when a foreign substance is inhaled into the lungs. The condition can affect both cats and dogs and requires emergency medical treatment. Causes of Aspiration Pneumonia There are multiple potential causes of aspiration pneumonia in pets. These include eating too fast, chronic […]
Asthma is a respiratory condition that can lead to dangerous symptoms in pets. It is more common in cats than dogs, and brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds are most susceptible to developing the condition. Causes of Asthma Asthma is typically caused by an allergic reaction to an environmental allergen. Common allergens include cigarette smoke, household chemicals, pollen, […]
Ataxia is a condition in which an animal experiences a loss of balance and coordination due to sensory dysfunction. The condition can be caused by multiple underlying health issues and results in debilitating and distressing symptoms in cats and dogs. Causes of Ataxia There are three different types of ataxia: proprioceptive (sensory), vestibular, and cerebellar. […]
An aural (ear) hematoma is a blood-filled swelling on a pet’s ear. The condition occurs when blood vessels are broken, causing blood to pool between the skin and cartilage of the ear. Causes of Aural Hematomas Aural hematomas are typically caused by trauma to the ear. The condition is more common in dogs than cats, […]
Blindness is a condition in which vision is lost in one or both eyes. There are multiple underlying causes of blindness in pets, and the condition can be progressive or sudden in onset. Causes of Blindness There are numerous underlying causes of blindness in pets. These include trauma, infection, and disorders of the eye such […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Surgeries, Symptoms, Treatments
A brain tumor is a mass of abnormal cells in the brain. Although usually seen in older pets, the condition can occur at any age. Brain tumors in pets are often malignant (cancerous) and can cause serious and potentially deadly symptoms. Causes of Brain Tumors Brain tumors have been linked to genetic and environmental factors, […]
As a pet owner, you want your pet to live a long and healthy life. But as your pet ages, it’s important to be aware that their needs and requirements will change. In this fact sheet, we’ll highlight some of the challenges of caring for an aging pet. We’ll also share some practical advice to […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments
Cataracts and nuclear sclerosis (or lenticular sclerosis) are two types of eye conditions that can cause similar symptoms in pets. In this fact sheet, we’ll take a look at the causes and symptoms of these commonly confused conditions to help you distinguish between them. What Are Cataracts? A cataract is a medical condition in which […]
Chronic bronchitis, also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is an inflammatory condition of the bronchial airways. The condition is progressive and can lead to serious symptoms if left untreated. Causes of Chronic Bronchitis Chronic bronchitis is often idiopathic, this means that it has no identifiable cause. The condition can also be triggered by […]
Chronic renal failure (CRF)is a failure of the kidneys. It is a common progressive condition in cats and dogs which can be life-threatening if left untreated. The kidneys are vital to your pet’s overall health. They are responsible for important functions including removing waste from the blood, controlling blood pressure, manufacturing hormones and encouraging red blood […]
Clavamox is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. The medication contains a combination of clavulanate and amoxicillin. Amoxicillin works by preventing bacteria from building cell walls, while clavulanate prevents bacteria from deactivating amoxicillin. Clavamox is stable, effective, and resistant to stomach acid. It is also suitable for use in cats […]
A cleft palate is a birth defect which results in an opening between the mouth and nose. It is most common in purebred cats and dogs, and can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening health issues. Causes of Cleft Palate Cleft palate is usually a congenital disorder that’s inherited at birth. It occurs when tissues […]
Cats, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Clindamycin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections in cats and dogs. It is commonly known by the brand names Antirobeand Cleocin. The medication works by halting bacterial growth. It also kills bacteria by preventing them from creating the proteins they need to survive. Uses and Benefits Clindamycin is used to treat a […]
Colitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the colon (large intestine). It can be acute or chronic in onset, and is common in both dogs and cats. Colitis can lead to painful and uncomfortable symptoms in pets, and may indicate the presence of underlying health issues. Causes of Colitis Colitis can be caused by […]
The trachea, also known as the windpipe, is a hollow tube that connects the larynx (voice box) to the lungs. It is an important structure within the respiratory system which delivers oxygen to the bloodstream. A collapsing trachea is a condition in which the trachea narrows during breathing causing obstruction of the airway. It is […]
The cruciate ligaments are two fibrous bands located within the knee joint. Their role is to connect and stabilize the femur and tibia (the bones directly above and below the knee joint). Cruciate ligament rupture occurs when the ligaments fully or partially tear. This painful condition can cause mobility issues and degeneration of the knee […]
Each year, thousands of pets are accidentally poisoned in the US. And many of these cases are caused by ingestion of toxic foods. In this fact sheet, we’ll highlight some of the most common human foods that are toxic to pets. Please be aware that ingestion of these foods can cause serious illness and even […]
Diabetes mellitus (diabetes) is a condition which occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. Insulin is a hormone which allows glucose in the blood to enter the cells. It is very important for overall health as the body uses glucose as its main source of energy. When a pet […]
Diabetes mellitus (diabetes) is a condition which occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. Insulin is a hormone which allows glucose in the blood to enter the cells. It is very important for overall health as the body uses glucose as its main source of energy. When a pet […]
The respiratory system is responsible for supplying the body with oxygen and eliminating carbon dioxide. For this reason, it is essential for the proper functioning of the body. Dyspnea is the medical term for difficult or labored breathing. Although not a condition in itself, dyspnea can indicate a wide range of serious underlying illnesses in […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
E. coli (Escherichia coli) bacteria is found in the gastrointestinal tract of most mammals, including dogs, cats, and humans. E. coli infection (colibacillosis) occurs when there are elevated levels of E. coli bacteria in the body. When this happens, humans and animals can develop serious and potentially life-threatening symptoms. Causes of E. Coli Infection There […]
Elizabethan Collars (Cones) An Elizabethan collar (or e-collar) is a flexible plastic cone that fits around your pet’s neck following surgery. Its purpose is to prevent damage to surgical wounds. Why does my pet need to wear a cone? Cats and dogs will attempt to lick, scratch, and bite wounds after surgery. This should always […]
Cats, Dogs, General Pet Information, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Enrofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections in cats and dogs. It belongs to a class of drugs called fluoroquinolones and is commonly known by the brand name Baytril. Enrofloxacin kills bacteria by inhibiting bacterial DNA synthesis. Uses and Benefits Enrofloxacin is used to treat a wide variety of infections. These include […]
Environmental enrichment can help cats and dogs live happier and healthier lives. In this fact sheet, we’ll explore what environmental enrichment is and how it can benefit the health of companion animals. We’ll also share some practical tips to help you enrich your pet’s environment. What Is Environmental Enrichment? Environmental enrichment is the process of […]
Feline calicivirus or (FCV) is a common upper respiratory infection in cats. It is species-specific and highly contagious. For this reason, it’s prevalent in cat shelters and other multi-cat facilities. Cats of all ages are susceptible to the virus, but it is most often seen in kittens over 6 weeks of age. Causes of Feline […]
Feline distemper is a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease that affects cats. The condition is caused by the feline panleukopenia virus (FDV), which infects and destroys certain types of cells in a cat’s body. Cats of all ages can contract feline distemper, although it is most common in young kittens with underdeveloped immune systems. […]
Feline herpesvirus (FHV) is a highly contagious, species-specific virus that causes viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), an upper respiratory infection. It is a common virus that can affect cats of all ages, including wild cats. Causes of Feline Herpesvirus Infection Feline herpesvirus is transmitted through direct contact with virus particles. Uninfected cats can contract the virus by […]
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a viral disease that affects the immune system of cats. Although FIV is specific to cats, it is similar to the HIV virus in humans. Causes of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus FIV attacks and weakens the immune system, causing cats with the disease to gradually decline in health as the virus […]
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a contagious virus that infects cats. The species-specific virus attacks the immune system and can cause a variety of secondary illnesses. FeLV is a leading cause of death in cats, second only to trauma. Causes of Feline Leukemia Virus FeLV is transmitted through direct contact with virus particles. Uninfected cats […]
Feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORLs) is a common dental disease that can lead to painful symptoms and tooth loss in cats. The condition occurs when the body breaks down and reabsorbs the substances that form the tooth. Causes of Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions FORLs is a progressive disorder that starts at the outer surface (enamel) […]
Feline urinary tract disease (FLUTD) is the medical term used to describe a range of conditions which affect the bladder and urethra in cats. FLUTD is commonly diagnosed in cats and can lead to a variety of painful and uncomfortable symptoms. Causes of Feline Urinary Tract Disease Many cases of FLUTD are idiopathic, meaning their […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Flatulence is a condition in which gas forms in the stomach or intestine. It is then expelled from the digestive system through the anus. Although passing gas is normal in pets, excessive flatulence can indicate an underlying health issue that requires treatment. Causes of Flatulence Common causes of flatulence include dietary changes and ingestion of […]
Fleas and ticks are external parasites that can cause a wide range of health issues in cats and dogs. Bites from these pests can be extremely painful and uncomfortable. They can also put your pet at risk of a number of serious and potentially life-threatening illnesses. Fleas can cause illnesses such as flea allergy dermatitis […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
A food allergy is an immune system reaction to a specific food ingredient. The condition can lead to a wide range of uncomfortable, painful, and potentially dangerous symptoms in pets. Causes of Food Allergies Food allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to a certain substance. When this happens, the body produces antibodies to defend […]