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Pet Health Articles

Medical Conditions

  • Ovarian remnant syndrome is a condition that occurs when ovarian tissue remains inside the body after a female dog is spayed. This tissue can produce estrogen, triggering signs of heat (estrus) in the dog. Surgical treatment is typically recommended to prevent other health conditions from developing.

  • Contenido en español actualizado.
    Translated from the original English article Pancreatitis in Cats

  • Contenido en español actualizado.
    Translated from the original English article Pancreatitis in Dogs

  • Pancreatitis is a disease caused by inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is a vital organ that produces enzymes to assist in food digestion and hormones such as insulin, which regulates blood sugar or glucose metabolism. Pancreatitis occurs occasionally in cats, and it may be acute (sudden) or chronic (recurring).

  • Pancreatitis is a disease caused by inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is a vital organ that produces enzymes to assist in food digestion and hormones such as insulin, which regulates blood sugar or glucose metabolism. Pancreatitis is common in dogs and may be acute or chronic.

  • Pandora syndrome affects multiple organ systems, including the urinary tract. The term is often used synonymously with Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC), but FIC is only one component of Pandora syndrome. It is believed to be related to chronic stress. This article discusses causes, signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for cats with this condition.

  • Panniculitis is a localized inflammation of the tissues under the skin, causing a firm swelling (nodule) that may ulcerate and drain fluid. It is a common problem in cats and is less common in dogs. In cats, it is often caused by bite wounds from fighting. This handout discusses causes, signs, and treatment of this condition.

  • Chronic superficial keratitis (CSK), or pannus, is a potentially blinding disease affecting the cornea. Any dog breed can be affected by pannus, but it is predominantly seen in German shepherds, Belgian shepherds, and border collies. Diagnosis is based on medical history and clinical signs. Treatment involves using topical corticosteroids or other immune-modulating drugs. If diagnosed early and treatment plans are followed, many dogs can have a good prognosis and live a normal life.

  • Panosteitis is a painful inflammation of the outer surface or shaft of one or more long bones of the legs. It is sometimes called growing pains. Panosteitis is a condition that affects young, rapidly growing dogs. Panosteitis will be suspected if the patient shows pain when pressure is applied to the affected bone(s). The diagnosis is confirmed by X-rays, which usually show a characteristic increase in the density of the affected bones. Although this disease will spontaneously resolve, during episodes of lameness the condition is very painful. At these times, treatment is supportive, using pain medication and anti-inflammatory drugs as needed.

  • Papillomas are benign, sometimes multiple, tumors caused by viruses. They are commonly known as warts. The virus is transmitted through direct contact from an infected pet or the pet’s environment (e.g., toys, food bowls, or bedding) and gain access to the body when the skin becomes softened by moisture, through cuts and abrasions, or with the assistance of insects. Pets with immature immune systems such as young dogs and puppies, and those that are immune compromised, are more prone to developing papilloma tumors. The tumors often disappear within 1-2 months because the animal slowly develops an immunity to them. However, sometimes they persist, and surgical removal is necessary.