The retina is a thin layer of tissue located at the back of the eyeball. Its purpose is to receive light and turn it into signals the brain can understand. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a condition in which the retina degenerates over time. When this happens, pets can suffer from progressive vision loss. Causes […]
Pyodermameans “pus in the skin”, itis a common bacterial infection of the skin and hair follicles that can cause itchiness, inflammation, a rash, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Cats and dogs can develop the condition when bacteria multiply to abnormal levels on the skin. Causes of Pyoderma Bacteria usually live on the surface of your pet’s […]
Pythiosis is a fungal infection caused by the water mold Pythium insidiosum. Although the condition is uncommon, it can be fatal in cats and dogs. Causes of Pythiosis Pythiosis is caused by exposure to Pythium insidiosum spores that are found in stagnant water, particularly throughout the southern United States. The organism can enter the body […]
Deciding to euthanize your pet can be one of the most heartbreaking and difficult decisions you ever make. But it’s important to recognize when the time is right to end your pet’s suffering if their quality of life is in decline. In this fact sheet, we’ll look at what to consider when assessing your pet’s […]
Rabies is a fatal disease that is caused by a virus which attacks the central nervous system. All mammals are susceptible to the disease, and there is no known cure. Rabies is a zoonotic disease, this means that it can be transmitted to humans by infected animals. For this reason, the disease is considered a […]
Radiography is a common imaging technique that uses X-rays to examine tissues, internal organs, and bones. It is a useful tool that can help your veterinarian diagnose and treat many medical conditions in pets. How Does Radiography Work? Radiography machines project a beam of X-rays, a form of electromagnetic radiation, onto a photographic plate. When […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Wellness and Vaccines
Radiography is a common imaging technique that uses X-rays to examine tissues, internal organs, and bones. It is a useful tool that can help your veterinarian diagnose and treat many medical conditions in pets. How Does Radiography Work? Radiography machines project a beam of X-rays, a form of electromagnetic radiation, onto a photographic plate. When […]
Cats, Dogs, General Pet Information, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Radiography is a common imaging technique that uses X-rays to examine tissues, internal organs, and bones. It is a useful tool that can help your veterinarian diagnose and treat many medical conditions in pets. How Does Radiography Work? Radiography machines project a beam of X-rays, a form of electromagnetic radiation, onto a photographic plate. When […]
Reverse sneezing is a common respiratory event in dogs but is comparatively rare in cats. When a pet reverse sneezes, they draw in air noisily and forcefully through their nose. This can be startling and worrying for pet owners who are unfamiliar with the phenomenon. Small dogs and brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds are most prone to […]
Despite its name, ringworm (dermatophytosis) is a fungal infection, not a type of parasitic worm. It is caused by several species of fungi called dermatophytes that infect the outer layers of the skin and hair. Ringworm is zoonotic, this means that it can be transmitted between people and animals. Left untreated, ringworm can cause painful […]
Salmonella Infection Salmonella infection (salmonellosis) is a bacterial illness caused by salmonella bacteria. Salmonella is zoonotic, this means that it can be transmitted between species. Left untreated, salmonella infection can lead to a wide range of dangerous symptoms in humans and animals. Causes of Salmonella Infection There are over 2,000 strains of salmonella bacteria, many […]
Seizures are a neurological condition caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They are often distressing to witness and can indicate a wide range of underlying health conditions in pets. Please visit your veterinarian immediately if your pet experiences seizures so the underlying cause of the condition can be diagnosed and treated. Causes of […]
Simplicef (cefpodoxime proxetil) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. It works by suppressing the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria and protozoa. Simplicefis FDA-approved for use in dogs. It may also be used to treat cats under the guidance of your veterinarian. Uses and Benefits Simplicef is used to treat skin infections […]
Spaying is a surgical procedure in which a female animal’s ovaries and uterus are removed. The medical name for spaying is ovariohysterectomy. In male animals, removal of the reproductive organs is referred to as neutering. Benefits of Spaying When a female animal is spayed, they are no longer able to reproduce. The most obvious benefit […]
A stroke is a medical condition in which the blood supply to the brain is interrupted. When this happens, the brain is deprived of oxygen and brain damage can occur. Fortunately, many pets can make a full recovery after a stroke. In fact, cats and dogs usually recover from a stroke much more quickly than […]
Subcutaneous (Sub-Q) fluid administration refers to the procedure of injecting fluids into the subcutaneous tissue under a cat’s skin. The procedure is used to rehydrate cats and help manage conditions such as kidney and liver disease. In some cases, it may be necessary to administer subcutaneous fluids at home. If your cat needs home fluid […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Sudden weight loss is a common problem in cats and dogs that can be caused by a wide range of health issues. In general, sudden weight loss that exceeds 10 percent of an animal’s body weight can indicate a serious underlying condition. Causes of Sudden Weight Loss There are multiple potential causes of sudden weight […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Tear stains are dark patches of discoloration that can occur around a pet’s eyes. Although they do not pose any danger in themselves, they can be a sign of an underlying health condition. For this reason, we recommend seeking veterinary care if tear stains are an ongoing problem for your pet. Causes of Tear Stains […]
The thyroid gland is a two-lobed gland located in the neck. It produces thyroid hormones that are responsible for a number of important bodily functions, including regulating metabolism. Thyroid tumors are abnormal masses of tissue that develop in the thyroid gland. Left untreated, they can lead to a variety of health problems in cats and […]
Torn nails in cats and dogs are a painful problem that can lead to bleeding and infection. Fortunately, taking care of your pet’s nails at home can minimize the risk of injury. Causes of Torn Nails Your pet’s nails can snag and tear if they are not trimmed often enough. Nails can become snagged on […]
An ultrasound test is a painless and non-invasive medical procedure used to view structures within the body. It is routinely performed in veterinary practices to help diagnose a range of conditions in pets. How Does Ultrasound Work? An ultrasound machine emits and receives high-frequency ultrasound waves that are inaudible to humans. These sound waves are […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Upper respiratory infections (URIs) affect the bronchi, trachea, nose, and throat. They are usually caused by bacteria or viruses and produce symptoms that are similar to those of the common cold in humans. URIs are highly contagious and can spread quickly and easily between pets of the same species. Causes of URIs The two most […]
Urinary incontinence is a condition characterized by involuntary lack of bladder control. It is common in pets and can be caused by a variety of underlying illnesses or behavioral issues. Causes of Urinary Incontinence Common causes of urinary incontinence include urinary tract infections, bladder stones, inflammatory disease, bladder or urinary tract abnormalities, and hormonal issues. […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments
Urolithiasis is a condition in which stones or crystals (uroliths) form in the urinary tract. The condition is usually very painful and can be potentially fatal if a complete blockage occurs in the urinary tract. Causes of Urolithiasis Several factors can contribute to the development of urolithiasis in pets. These include genetics, urinary tract infections, […]
Vaginitis is the medical term for inflammation of the vagina. The condition is more common in dogs than cats and is often seen in prepubertal (sexually immature) animals. Causes of Vaginitis There are many potential causes of vaginitis in pets. These include urinary tract infections, vaginal trauma, urinary incontinence, and foreign bodies within the vaginal […]
Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of food from the stomach. It is common in dogs and cats and can indicate a wide range of underlying health issues. Causes of Vomiting There are multiple causes of vomiting in pets. Some of the most common of these are food allergies, ingestion of spoiled or toxic food, dietary […]
Inappropriate elimination is a common feline behavioral problem that can be messy and frustrating to deal with. But understanding the reasons behind your cat’s behavior can help you to prevent it. The reasons for cats not using their litter box can be broken down into three main categories: territorial marking, medical issues, and environmental problems. […]
Yeast is a fungus that exists naturally on your pet’s body. Yeast infections occur when yeast organisms flourish and reproduce uncontrollably. When this happens, the fungus can spread throughout the body causing a wide range of health problems. Causes of Yeast Infections A compromised immune system is the principal underlying cause of yeast infection in […]