Pet Health Articles
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Pyelonephritis is an upper urinary tract infection that involves the kidneys and ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder). It is usually caused by a bacterial infection that moves up the urinary tract from the bladder to the kidneys. Signs, diagnosis, and treatment are discussed.
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Pyometra is a serious and life-threatening bacterial infection in the uterus that must be treated quickly and aggressively. It develops due to normal hormonal changes after a female cat’s heat cycle. The preferred treatment is to surgically remove the uterus and ovaries.
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Pyothorax is the presence of inflammatory fluid or pus within the chest cavity, usually caused by a bacterial infection. This handout outlines causes, signs, treatment, and prognosis.
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Cryptorchidism is the failure of one or both testicles to descend into the scrotum. Risks of retained testicles include testicular cancer, spermatic cord torsion, and the development of undesirable male characteristics, so neutering is strongly recommended.
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Retinal detachment can cause sudden blindness or vision changes. It is generally secondary to an underlying condition like high blood pressure. Diagnostics and treatment are discussed. Prognosis is guarded to good depending on the underlying cause.
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Ringworm infections in cats are caused by a fungus, not a worm. Ringworm is highly contagious and can be spread between animals and from animals to people. The clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and risks are explained in this handout.
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A salivary mucocele is an accumulation of saliva that has leaked from an injured salivary gland or duct. Some mucoceles cause swelling of the face and neck, while others interfere with a dog's ability to swallow or breathe normally. Treatment typically requires surgical removal of the affected salivary gland(s).
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Seborrhea, also called seborrheic dermatitis, is a skin disorder in which the skin’s sebaceous glands produce an excessive amount of sebum, which is an oily, waxy substance that helps moisturize and protect the skin. The excess sebum causes scaly, flaky, itchy, and red skin. Seborrhea typically affects the back, face, and flanks and is worse in skin folds. Treatment or management depends on the cause.
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A seizure, also known as a convulsion or fit, is a temporary, involuntary disturbance of normal brain function. If abnormal brain activity occurs in the motor cortex of the brain, it may cause uncontrollable muscle activity. Epilepsy is a condition that involves repeated seizures that may occur alone or in clusters. These seizures may be infrequent and unpredictable or they may occur at regular intervals.
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Cats older than 10 years are considered senior, although this varies by breed and size. As cats enter their senior years, aging affects every organ system, so a few extra health, lifestyle, and veterinary care considerations become important.