Featured Articles
Hyperthyroidism in cats
Veterinarians get frustrated sometimes. It seems like cats only come into the veterinary clinic for three reasons; weight loss, lethargy, and vomiting. No matter what is wrong with the cat, it seems like they almost always have one or all of these signs. Hyperthyroidism is one of the diseases that also have these symptoms. Cats suffering from this usually lose weight, even though they are eating more. They can be lethargic or extra-excitable. Sometimes the cat will drink more water (usually noticed because they urinate more) and can have vomiting and/or diarrhea. The owner subsequently brings the cat in to see a vet because it is sick.
Hyperthyroidism is always on the list of possibilities when these symptoms occur. Hyperthyroidism is a very common disease in older cats. It is so common that most vets will test the thyroid every time a sick cat comes in. It is a disease that can be easily treated, but it will slowly kill the cat if it is not treated. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.
Fall Issue: 2004
Featured Pet tip – Drooling cats – kneading cats – Cats that drool and knead
Occasionally adult cats will drool while they are being petted, massaged or while nuzzling into fabrics. This drooling is usually accompanied with the kneading of …
Canine Leptospirosis
Summertime’s warm weather means that dogs get to spend more time playing outside. A great majority of dogs love to swim at the cottage and explore the different smells the environment has to offer. Summertime also means that local wildlife, …
Regurgitation and Vomiting Differences in Dogs and Cats
Most pet owners have seen it; your cat or dog hunches up, starts to make retching noises, and then brings up an amount of material. But is it vomit or regurgitation? This may seem like a trivial difference, but in fact it is not. Knowing whether the material is vomit or regurgitation tells your vet where the material is coming from, and also what may be the cause of the problem. Regurgitation is defined as the passive, retrograde movement of ingested material, usually before it reaches the stomach.
The regurgitated material is often expelled with minimal or no signs of nausea, distress or retching. In fact, the animal may show some surprise as it goes through the act, because it was not expecting it! Material originates from the oral cavity, pharynx or esophagus. Regurgitation often occurs immediately after eating food, but can also occur hours afterwards.
Urethra is Blocked
Urethral Blockage in Dogs and Cats
Rushing a pet into the emergency room is a situation every pet owner fears. Many owners have firsthand experience with the anxiety that comes with an emergency situation, and the worry that maybe somehow …
Chinchilla Behavior Problems
The chinchilla, if handled from a young age can be a friendly, curious pet. However, if they were not treated well as a young chinchilla, had a bad experience, or just grew up bitter and resentful, you will notice your …
The Come Command
One of the most important things for dogs to learn is to come to you when you call his or her name. Dogs regularly get themselves into trouble and/or engage in risky activities (like blindly chasing anything that moves). If …
Expecting Kittens
Pregnancy signs in cats – cat is pregnant
Expecting kittens – Dr. Bruce Fogle DVM
Early on, there are few outward signs of pregnancy.
The cat may adopt a more serene disposition.
Sensible nesting activity begins.
Pregnancy in cats lasts …
Tip – 38 – Dog toys – good and bad dog toys
GOOD AND BAD DOG TOYS
All dogs like to play, especially chase games but these are not necessarily the games you want them to play. Retrieving games are best, giving the dog lots of exercise, without necessarily exhausting you. Balls …