Leaky gut syndrome (dysbiosis) is a condition in which the lining of the small intestine becomes damaged, allowing toxins and undigested food to leak into the bloodstream. When this happens, the immune system launches an inflammatory response and a variety of health problems can develop. Causes of Leaky Gut Syndrome The underlying cause of leaky […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, Surgeries, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by spiral-shaped bacteria called Leptospira. It is a zoonotic disease, this means that it can be spread between many species including dogs, cats, and humans. The condition is highly contagious and can lead to dangerous and potentially life-threatening symptoms if left untreated. Causes of Leptospirosis Leptospira bacteria thrive in […]
Leukemia is a type of cancer characterized by an increased white blood cell count in the bloodstream and bone marrow. The disease is classified into two main types: lymphocytic and myelogenous leukemia. Lymphocytic leukemia is caused by malignant (cancerous) cells in the lymph nodes, while myelogenous leukemia is caused by malignant cells in the bone […]
Lice are tiny parasitic insects that live on the surface of the skin. Some types of lice feed by chewing on the skin, while others suck an animal’s blood. When lice infestation (pediculosis) occurs, cats and dogs can develop painful and uncomfortable symptoms. In severe cases, lice infestation can also lead to serious illness in […]
The liver is responsible for many vital roles in the body. These include removing toxins from the blood, contributing to immune regulation, and producing bile to aid digestion. Liver disease is a broad term used to describe any disorder that damages the liver and impairs its function. The condition affects both cats and dogs and […]
Loss of appetite, also known as anorexia, is a condition in which an animal loses the desire or ability to eat. The condition affects both cats and dogs, and can be potentially fatal if left untreated. Causes of Loss of Appetite There are numerous potential causes of loss of appetite in pets. These include trauma, […]
The patella is the medical name for the kneecap. If your pet has a luxating patella, it means that their kneecap has moved out of position. Normally, the kneecap rests comfortably in a deep groove in the femur bone known as the patellofemoral groove. When the knee is moved, the patella slides smoothly over the […]
Lyme disease is a bacterial illness that can affect both humans and animals. It is spread by certain species of ticks and can lead to potentially dangerous symptoms. Causes of Lyme Disease Lyme disease is rare in cats but relatively common in dogs. It is transmitted through the bite of a tick infected with the […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Surgeries, Symptoms, Treatments
Lymphoma, also known as lymphosarcoma, is one of the most common types of cancers found in cats and dogs. It is a cancer of the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that plays an important role in your pet’s immune system. Lymphocytes are found throughout the body and are particularly numerous in the bone […]
Mammary tumors are malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous) growths in the breast tissue. This type of tumor develops when the cells of the mammary gland (breast) replicate uncontrollably. Certain breeds of pet have been shown to be at higher risk of developing mammary tumors. These include Siamese cats, cocker spaniels, and poodles. Female dogs are […]
Mange is a type of skin disease caused by parasitic mites which can lead to painful and uncomfortable symptoms in dogs. For this reason, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of the condition so your pet can be correctly diagnosed and treated. Types of Mange Demodectic mange and sarcoptic mange are the […]
Multidrug resistance mutation 1 (MDR-1) is an inherited genetic mutation that causes dogs to be more sensitive to certain medications. When given these drugs, animals with the MDR-1 gene mutation can suffer from severe and potentially life-threatening reactions. Causes of MDR-1 Mutation Some dogs are born with a mutation in the MDR-1 gene, which is […]
Meningitis is a condition in which the meninges (the membranes that cover the spinal cord and brain) become inflamed. This serious neurologic disease can be fatal to cats and dogs, and requires emergency medical treatment. Causes of Meningitis Meningitis usually occurs as a result of bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infection that spreads to the […]
Metronidazole is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication used to treat diarrhea, inflammation of the large intestine, and various types of infections in cats and dogs. It is commonly known by the brand name Flagyl. The medication works by stopping the growth of certain microorganisms, although the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood. Uses […]
Nasal polyps are benign pink growths that originate in the nasal cavity. Nasopharyngeal polyps are similar growths that develop in the middle ear. Both types of polyps are more common in cats than dogs, and can cause respiratory issues if left untreated. Causes of Nasal and Nasopharyngeal Polyps The cause of nasal and nasopharyngeal polyps […]
It’s normal for cats and dogs to have a runny nose from time to time, and it’s usually nothing to worry about. However, if you notice excessive nasal discharge or other related symptoms, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying health problem. Causes of Nasal Discharge Possible causes of chronic nasal discharge […]
Neutering is a surgical procedure in which a male animal’s testicles are removed. This type of surgery is sometimes also known as castration. In female animals, removal of the reproductive organs is referred to as spaying. Benefits of Neutering When a male animal is neutered, they are no longer able to impregnate females. The most […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Epistaxis (nosebleed), is a condition in which bleeding occurs from the nasal cavity. It is common in cats and dogs and can be caused by a number of underlying factors. Causes of Nosebleeds Trauma, stress, infection, and foreign bodies in the nasal cavity are some of the most common causes of epistaxis. Other causes include […]
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used in both humans and animals to relieve pain, inflammation, and fever. In dogs, they are commonly prescribed to treat the symptoms of osteoarthritis. NSAIDs may also be used to manage short-term pain in cats and dogs. How NSAIDS Work NSAIDs work by reducing the production of chemicals called […]
Osteosarcoma is an aggressive form of bone cancer. Pets with the condition develop malignant tumors that can metastasize (spread) throughout the body. Although treatment options are available for osteosarcoma, the condition is incurable and often fatal. Causes of Osteosarcoma Osteosarcoma is most often seen in large and giant breeds of dog, including Irish wolfhounds, Great […]
The pancreas is an organ located on the right side of the abdomen. It performs a number of vital functions in the body including producing digestive enzymes and hormones such as insulin. Pancreatitis is a condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed. The disease can occur in cats and dogs of any age, size, and […]
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 […]
It is important to socialize a new puppy to prevent behavioral issues later in life. In this fact sheet, we’ll cover the basics of puppy socialization to help you raise a happy and well-adjusted dog. When and Why to Socialize Your Puppy According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the best time to start socializing […]
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 […]
Rimadyl (carprofen) is a medication used to treat pain and inflammation. It is FDA-approved for use in dogs, but is generally not recommended for cats. The medication belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). It works by reducing hormones that lead to pain and inflammation. Uses and Benefits Rimadyl is used 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 […]
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 […]