GLAUCOMA Glaucoma is an increase in pressure within the eyeball. The problem results from blockage of the gland that drains intraocular fluids (vitreous humor and aqueous humor) and overproduction of the glands that secrete the fluids. The condition is painful and symptoms include a bulging reddened eye with prominent blood vessels. A tonometer is a
GIARDIA Giardia are microscopic parasites that live in the small intestines of dogs and cats. Giardiasis is characterized by weight loss and chronic diarrhea. Giardiasis is treated with drugs such as Metronidazol that rid the body of the parasite and with medications to treat diarrhea.
GASTROENTERITIS Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and the intestinal lining. A 3 day protocol of fasting and prescribed medications, along with increased drinking to replenish body fluids and maintain normal hydration. Hydration status can be evaluated by rubbing the gums. Mucus membranes in the mouth should be slimy and slobbery (normal), not sticky or
FLEA ALLERGY DERMATITIS Flea-allergy dermatitis is a skin disease caused by a pet's unusual sensitivity to flea bites. It is the most preventable of allergies by controlling the flea population in the pet’s environment. The most effective method of accomplishing this goal is with Frontline Topspot or Advantage (Over the counter flea topicals are often
FEMORAL FRACTURE Fractures of the femur (the upper bone of the rear leg) are the most frequent fractures in veterinary medicine. They are almost always caused by trauma, such as hit by car. Femoral fractures are usually repaired through Intra-medullary pin placement surgery. Slight cracks in the bone may be treated with stabilization and enforced
FUS (FELINE UROLOGICAL SYNDROME) = FLUTD (FELINE LOWER URINARY TRACT DISEASE) = “BLOCKED CAT” FUS is a disease of the urinary bladder and urethra in cats. Female cats develop signs of cystitis (bladder infection). They will urinate frequently, often passing small amounts of bloody urine at the end of the stream. Cats with cystitis (bladder
FELINE LEUKEMIA The Feline Leukemia virus (FELV) is very contagious to other pets. Feline Leukemia is a highly contagious virus seen in cats and kittens of all ages. The new Feline Leukemia Vaccination is extremely protective from this deadly disease. FELV affects the immune system resulting in: diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, poor hair coat, anorexia,
FELINE AIDS – FIV (FELINE IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS) Feline Aids is a retrovirus of the subfamily of lentivirus, very similar to the human “Aids” virus HIV. FIV is not transmittable to any species other than feline. FIV disrupts the host’s immune system, rendering the host less capable of fighting off bacterial and fungal infections. The virus
EXOCRINE PANCREATIC INSUFFICIENCY Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is an inadequate production of enzymes necessary for the digestion of food. Common clinical signs include diarrhea and weight loss. It is treated with a highly digestible diet and medications to improve digestion. The most commonly prescribed medication is Pancreazyme.
EPILEPSY / SEIZURE (also see Seizure) Epilepsy or seizures can be caused by trauma, brain tumor, or chemical imbalance. The most common cause of Epilepsy is termed "idiopathic" meaning unknown. When a pet experiences a seizure it is due to repetitive inappropriate brain stimulation. A "Gran Mal" seizure describes full sustained tremor including defecation and
