Pet Health Articles
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Cats limp when they have a hurt leg. Although most limps need veterinary attention, there are a few first-aid measures you can perform at home if your cat begins to hobble. If your cat is in severe pain, take them to your veterinary hospital or emergency hospital immediately.
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A cat’s tail is an extension of its spine, so it is an important part of its anatomy. Tail injuries are common and can sometimes be managed with home first aid, but some cases require veterinary care. This article outlines some common canine tail injuries and how they should be treated.
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If your cat limps, or licks at her pads, she may have a foot pad that is torn, punctured, or burned. Minor injuries may be treated at home, by cleaning and covering the wound, but deeper or complicated wounds require veterinary attention. Try to avoid foot injuries in your cat by surveying the areas where your cat plays and walks.
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Frostbite is the damage that is caused to the skin and other tissues due to extreme cold. The paws, ears and tail are the most common tissues to be affected. If you suspect your cat has frostbite, you should seek medical attention immediately. Mild cases of frostbite usually resolve with little permanent damage, while more severe frostbite may result in permanent disfiguration or alteration of the affected tissues.
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Hepatic lipidosis, also known as fatty liver syndrome, is unique to cats and is one of the most common liver diseases seen in cats. Usually a cat with hepatic lipidosis has recently gone through a period of anorexia (little or no eating) for 3 to 4 consecutive days. Diagnosis of hepatic lipidosis is made from blood tests that demonstrate poor liver function and/or from a liver biopsy or fine needle aspirate. Hepatic lipidosis is treatable with aggressive nutritional support until a normal appetite returns. Treating the underlying initial cause of the inappetence is also essential for full recovery.
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Pets face a variety of potential hazards during the holidays, including tinsel, electrical cords, string from meat, ribbons, Christmas tree water, holiday plants, and foods like chocolate and bread dough. By observing a few commonsense guidelines, you can share a safe and healthy celebration with your cat.
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If your pet had an emergency crisis, how would you manage it? Ask your veterinary hospital how they handle after-hour emergencies. Use this handout to help you plan ahead and be prepared in the event of a pet health emergency.
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Hypokalemia is a low concentration of potassium in the blood. Potassium is vital for the normal function of muscles and nerves. The underlying cause of hypokalemia is often chronic kidney failure. Hypokalemia and its associated clinical signs may be quickly corrected by potassium supplementation.
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Ibuprofen is commonly used in humans to treat fever, pain, and inflammation. Ibuprofen poisoning occurs when a cat ingests a toxic dose of ibuprofen, either through misuse or by accident. Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can be extremely harmful in cats, and small doses can cause adverse effects and poisoning.
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Icterus is also known as jaundice. It is an excessive accumulation of a yellow pigment called bilirubin in the blood and tissues, most easily seen in the gums and whites of the eyes. Icterus can be caused by hemolysis, liver disease, or obstruction of the bile duct. Your veterinarian will perform screening tests to determine the root cause of icterus.