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 […]
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 […]
Apoquel (oclacitinib) is a medication used to treat and manage itchiness associated with allergies in dogs. The medication belongs to a class of drugs called Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors. It works by controlling the immune system’s response to itchiness and inflammation. Uses and Benefits Apoquel is used to treat itchiness and inflammation caused by a […]
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, […]
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 […]
Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Surgeries, Symptoms, Treatments
A cataract is a medical condition in which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and opaque. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes, and are more common in dogs than cats. The condition is progressive and can lead to partial loss of vision or complete blindness in pets. It is important to visit your […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a serious condition in which the heart is unable to process enough blood to meet the needs of an animal’s body. When this happens, fluid is retained in or around the lungs, causing congestion. Although CHF is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, the good news is that it can […]
Constipation is a condition characterized by difficulty passing stools normally. When this happens, feces can harden and accumulate in the colon. The condition is common in pets, and can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Causes of Constipation A number of factors can lead to constipation in pets. These include dehydration, lack of […]
Coprophagia is the medical term for the ingestion of feces. This unpleasant problem is more common in dogs than cats, and can be caused by a number of underlying issues. Causes of Coprophagia In most cases, coprophagia is thought to be a behavioral problem. Possible behavioral reasons for eating feces include boredom, scavenging behavior, curiosity, […]
Corneal ulcers are deep abrasions on the clear outer surface of the eyeball known as the cornea. This sensitive part of the eye acts as a lens and protective cover for the iris and pupil. Corneal ulcers in pets are often very painful, and serious eye problems can develop if the disorder is left untreated. […]
Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism) is a thyroid disorder that occurs when a pet’s adrenal glands overproduce the hormone cortisol. The disease tends to occur in middle-aged and senior pets, and is more common in dogs than cats. Cortisol is vital for your pet’s health. It performs important functions in the body including suppressing the immune system […]
A cystotomy is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made in the abdomen and bladder. It is commonly performed to facilitate removal of stones or crystals (uroliths) from the urinary tract. The procedure may also be performed to diagnose or treat problems including tumors, trauma to the bladder, and urinary tract infections. Preparing […]
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 […]
Folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicles which can lead to itchiness and skin irritation in pets. Deep folliculitis can occur when pets scratch or bite their skin, leading to infection in the deepest portion of the hair follicle. The condition can be caused by a number of underlying factors and is more common in […]
Conditions, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive and incurable disease which impacts the spinal cord. Symptoms of the disease worsen over a period of 6 months to 3 years, resulting in paralysis of the hind end of the body. Fortunately, DM is relatively rare in dogs and there are very few documented cases in cats. Causes […]
Dental care plays an important role in your pet’s overall health and wellbeing. Without proper care, pets are susceptible to periodontal disease (gum disease), an infection of the mouth. Unfortunately, by three years of age, most cats and dogs have some evidence of the disease. Periodontal disease develops when bacteria in the mouth form plaque […]
Most dental problems in pets can be prevented with good oral hygiene and regular dental examinations. When problems do occur, they can often be solved with routine cleaning and removal of plaque and tartar buildup. A dental extraction (tooth removal) is performed as a last resort for pets with serious dental problems that cannot be […]
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 […]
Pancreatic enzymes are needed to digest proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in your pet’s body. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) is a condition in which the pancreas fails to produce sufficient levels of these important digestive enzymes. Both cats and dogs can develop EPI, leading to symptoms which can significantly impact their overall health. Causes of EPI […]
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 […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Pets that spend a lot of time outdoors run the risk of coming into contact with sharp foreign bodies that can penetrate their skin. Pets with foreign bodies under the skin can suffer from pain and infection. For this reason, it’s important to visit your veterinarian immediately if you notice signs or symptoms of this […]
Gabapentin is a medication used for the treatment of seizures and chronic pain. It was originally developed for use in humans, but is now commonly used to treat pets. Gabapentin appears to work by altering the way that nerves send messages to the brain, although its exact mechanism of action is not fully understood. The […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
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 […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Giving your pet oral medications can be challenging, so it’s important to follow the proper procedure. Your veterinarian may prescribe oral medications in pill or liquid form. They will also provide information on administering the medication, correct dosages, and how often to give pills or liquids. It is very important to follow the treatment advice […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is a condition characterized by complete or partial loss of hair. It is common in dogs and cats and can be caused by a wide range of underlying health conditions. Causes of Hair Loss Some of the most common causes of hair loss in pets include parasites, skin infections, […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Symptoms, Treatments, Wellness and Vaccines
Halitosis is the medical term for bad breath. Although this unpleasant condition is often overlooked by pet owners, it can indicate a wide range of underlying health issues that may require treatment. Causes of Halitosis There are many potential causes of halitosis in pets. The most common of these is periodontal disease, an inflammatory condition […]
Cats, Conditions, Dogs, General Pet Information, Surgeries, Symptoms, Treatments
Heartworm disease is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition that can affect dogs, cats, and some other species of mammal. It is caused by parasitic worms that live in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels of infected animals. Left untreated, heartworm disease can cause serious health conditions including lung disease, heart failure, and organ damage. […]