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 […]
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, 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 […]
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 […]
Temaril-P is a medication used to treat itching and coughing in dogs. It contains an antihistamine called Trimeprazine and a corticosteroid called Prednisolone. Thanks to its active ingredients, the medication works in two ways. Trimeprazine counteracts histamine, a chemical that causes itchiness and inflammation during an allergic reaction. Prednisolone acts like cortisol, a naturally occurring […]
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 […]
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. […]
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in dogs, and in most cases, they are entirely treatable. Because these conditions can be painful and uncomfortable, it’s important to look out for warning signs that your dog maybe suffering from a UTI. Causes of UTIs The number one cause of UTIs in dogs is a bacterial infection. […]
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, […]
Vaccines stimulate a dog’s immune system by introducing modified infectious organisms into the bloodstream. This prepares your dog’s body to fight off disease. Vaccinating your dog is one of the simplest ways to protect them against serious illnesses throughout their lifetime. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) classifies vaccines for dogs as core, noncore, and […]
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 […]
The vestibular system has components located in the inner ear and brain. Its job is to regulate the body’s ability to maintain balance and coordination. Vestibular disease is a condition in which the vestibular system functions abnormally, resulting in a sudden disturbance of balance. The condition can affect both cats and dogs and is most […]
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 […]
Whipworms are a type of parasite with a whip-like shape that can invade a pet’s gastrointestinal tract. They are relatively common in dogs, but rare in cats. Whipworm infection is known as trichuriasis. If left untreated, pets with the condition can develop serious and potentially life-threatening symptoms. Causes of Whipworms Several species of whipworms are […]
Depending on your pet’s condition and the severity of their symptoms, your veterinarian may recommend referral to a veterinary specialist. What Is a Veterinary Specialist? According to The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): “A veterinary specialist is a veterinarian who has completed additional training in a specific area of veterinary medicine and has passed an […]
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 […]