Diseases and Conditions
Learn about various diseases and conditions of dogs, cats, horses, and ruminants. Veterinary information and different treatment options are available. Please see All Disease & Parasite FAQs for additional articles on a variety of topics.
All Disease & Parasite FAQs (80)
Exotic Pet Information (17)
Cancer Oncology (16)
Glossary Terms
Cardiology (6)
Parasites (39)
Cat Medical Information (109)
Pharmacy and Medications (2)
Dog Medical Information (113)
Pregnancy & Reproduction (40)
Equine (Horse) Information (30)
Ruminants General Info (8)
Sunburn: Not Just For Humans -- Protect Your Pets, Too
People are finally learning about the dangers of sun exposure. Now this sun care attention is turning to our pets. White animals and those that have a summer hair cut or with naturally thin (or nonexistent!) hair coats are particularly sensitive to the sun, and may suffer the same ills as humans: sunburn and skin cancers. This Quick Tip offers ideas and cautions for protecting your pet on those sunny days.
People are finally learning about the dangers of sun exposure. Now this sun care attention is turning to our pets. White animals and those that have a summer hair cut or with naturally thin (or nonexistent!) hair coats are particularly sensitive to the sun, and may suffer the same ills as humans: sunburn and skin cancers. This Quick Tip offers ideas and cautions for protecting your pet on those sunny days.
Stem Cell Regenerative Therapy in Veterinary Medicine
Stem cells have been in the news in recent years because they can grow and differentiate into many types of cell types. For cells originating from human embryos, there are many ethical and legal debates about usage of these cells. Scientists are now focusing on adult stem cells; cells from adult animals that do not harm the animal to procure the cells. Treatment potential spans many types of diseases and injury. Learn more in this article on stem cell therapy in animals.
Stem cells have been in the news in recent years because they can grow and differentiate into many types of cell types. For cells originating from human embryos, there are many ethical and legal debates about usage of these cells. Scientists are now focusing on adult stem cells; cells from adult animals that do not harm the animal to procure the cells. Treatment potential spans many types of diseases and injury. Learn more in this article on stem cell therapy in animals.
Aging Pet Care Awareness -- know what "senior" means for your pet
A comment that I hear frequently (and say myself!) is that pets don't live long enough. As veterinary medicine advances and pet lover's awareness grows, longer and healthier lifespans are possible. Average pet lifespan varies greatly between dogs, cats and breeds. Being aware of the changes age brings will help owners prepare for optimal pet health in the senior years.
A comment that I hear frequently (and say myself!) is that pets don't live long enough. As veterinary medicine advances and pet lover's awareness grows, longer and healthier lifespans are possible. Average pet lifespan varies greatly between dogs, cats and breeds. Being aware of the changes age brings will help owners prepare for optimal pet health in the senior years.
Holiday Hazards - String Things
Pets are naturally curious, and the "newness" of holiday decorations, gifts, and toys (even those intended for pets) can be enticing to check out, or chew up. This Quick Tip is a reminder of items that pose a hazard for a condition known as a Medical Conditions That Can't Wait
While we endeavor to take the very best care of our pets, sometimes it is confusing to know if they are sick or not, if is it an emergency, or if we can wait and watch to see if they will improve. This list is by no means the absolute list to know if you should take your pet to the vet or not (always call your vet if you have [i]any[/i] question about your pet's health", but rather it is a list o…
Pets are naturally curious, and the "newness" of holiday decorations, gifts, and toys (even those intended for pets) can be enticing to check out, or chew up. This Quick Tip is a reminder of items that pose a hazard for a condition known as a Medical Conditions That Can't Wait
While we endeavor to take the very best care of our pets, sometimes it is confusing to know if they are sick or not, if is it an emergency, or if we can wait and watch to see if they will improve. This list is by no means the absolute list to know if you should take your pet to the vet or not (always call your vet if you have [i]any[/i] question about your pet's health", but rather it is a list o…
How to Give Your Cat a Pill
Most cat owners have been faced with giving their cat a pill at sometime or another. Here are some tips to make the process easier for you and your cat.
Most cat owners have been faced with giving their cat a pill at sometime or another. Here are some tips to make the process easier for you and your cat.
Dermatology Diary Part 7: Meet Simba and Asia
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at About.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at About.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Why should my cryptorchid pet be neutered?
Cryptorchidism is when one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum. This condition is a fairly common problem; seen in dogs, cats and other animals. This is a well-documented genetic trait -- animals with this condition should not be bred. Find out why in this FAQ.
Cryptorchidism is when one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum. This condition is a fairly common problem; seen in dogs, cats and other animals. This is a well-documented genetic trait -- animals with this condition should not be bred. Find out why in this FAQ.
Good Grooming: A Matter of Life and Health
Good grooming isn't just for looks -- keeping your pet groomed is important for overall health, too. Learn why "good grooming" is more than brushing your pet's coat -- it is an healthy way to view your pet's home care and prevent costly (and often unnecessary) trips to the vet's office.
Good grooming isn't just for looks -- keeping your pet groomed is important for overall health, too. Learn why "good grooming" is more than brushing your pet's coat -- it is an healthy way to view your pet's home care and prevent costly (and often unnecessary) trips to the vet's office.
Dermatology Diary Part 6: Meet Simba and Asia
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at About.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at About.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Dermatology Diary Part 5: Meet Simba and Asia
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at About.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at About.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Find Many Ways to Participate in Spay Day USA
SpayDay USA is held each year in February to promote awareness about the serious pet overpopulation problem in the United States. In addition to sharing information about pet overpopuplation, responsible pet ownership and the health benefits of neutering your animal (spay or castration surgery), Spay Day promotes several avenues for low-cost surgery options so no one is left out.
SpayDay USA is held each year in February to promote awareness about the serious pet overpopulation problem in the United States. In addition to sharing information about pet overpopuplation, responsible pet ownership and the health benefits of neutering your animal (spay or castration surgery), Spay Day promotes several avenues for low-cost surgery options so no one is left out.
Dermatology Diary Part 4: Meet Simba and Asia
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at About.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at About.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Veterinary Q & A - Holiday Emergencies
People often ask: Is my pet really sick, or can it wait? Or: I don't know what to do - I don't have enough money for an emergency vet. What should you do when you suspect that your pet is ill and your vet's office is closed? Tips to help figure out the best plan of action for the health of your pet.
People often ask: Is my pet really sick, or can it wait? Or: I don't know what to do - I don't have enough money for an emergency vet. What should you do when you suspect that your pet is ill and your vet's office is closed? Tips to help figure out the best plan of action for the health of your pet.
Dermatology Diary: Meet Simba and Asia
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at ABout.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at ABout.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Dermatology Diary: Meet Simba and Asia
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at ABout.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at ABout.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Dermatology Diary - photos of two canine dermatology patients
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at ABout.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at ABout.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Dermatology Diary: Meet Simba and Asia
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at ABout.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at ABout.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
How to Take Care of Torn Toenails in a Dog or Cat
Most pet owners have experienced a torn toenail, especially dog owners. This How To describes how to take care of an injured nail until it can be examined by a veterinarian.
Most pet owners have experienced a torn toenail, especially dog owners. This How To describes how to take care of an injured nail until it can be examined by a veterinarian.
You know your pet is pudgy when... how to assess your pet's optimum body weight
It can be hard to resist those soulful eyes, that wagging tail, and that earnest face. However, with pet obesity being one of the top health concerns for our pets, a quick assessment of optimal body weight could help lengthen your pet's life. Find out how to objectively assess your pet's body condition in this article.
It can be hard to resist those soulful eyes, that wagging tail, and that earnest face. However, with pet obesity being one of the top health concerns for our pets, a quick assessment of optimal body weight could help lengthen your pet's life. Find out how to objectively assess your pet's body condition in this article.
How is a Bile Acid test performed, and what information does a Bile Acid Test offer?
Forum member TRISHA1920 asks: "My dog had his Bile Acid test today and I won't get the results until early next week. Does anyone know what a Bile Acid test is? It sounds like something to do with Acid in the gullet..." Find out the answers to these questions and more in this FAQ.
Forum member TRISHA1920 asks: "My dog had his Bile Acid test today and I won't get the results until early next week. Does anyone know what a Bile Acid test is? It sounds like something to do with Acid in the gullet..." Find out the answers to these questions and more in this FAQ.
How to Know When It Is 'Time' to Euthanize a Pet (Put To Sleep)
Here are some questions to consider when evaluating the quality of life for your pet. A general rule of thumb is when "the bad days outnumber the good days", but that can be difficult to assess. Becoming familiar with these guidelines will help pet owners determine when it is time to say goodbye to a terminally ill pet.
Here are some questions to consider when evaluating the quality of life for your pet. A general rule of thumb is when "the bad days outnumber the good days", but that can be difficult to assess. Becoming familiar with these guidelines will help pet owners determine when it is time to say goodbye to a terminally ill pet.
Fall Allergens - Seasonal Pollens and Molds That Make Pets & People Uncomfortable
Just like people, animals suffer from seasonal allergies too. Fall allergens such as ragweed and molds are common causes of allergic reactions. Find out what to look for and how to minimize your pet's exposure to allergens in your environment in this pet news press release.
Just like people, animals suffer from seasonal allergies too. Fall allergens such as ragweed and molds are common causes of allergic reactions. Find out what to look for and how to minimize your pet's exposure to allergens in your environment in this pet news press release.
Pet Allergy Laboratory In Texas Granted USDA Approval
This press release announces the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) approval of a pet allergy laboratory in Texas to screen allergic pets and create "allergy shots" (immunotherapy) for the lessening of allergic symptoms in pets. Learn allergy basics in this forward to the press release.
This press release announces the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) approval of a pet allergy laboratory in Texas to screen allergic pets and create "allergy shots" (immunotherapy) for the lessening of allergic symptoms in pets. Learn allergy basics in this forward to the press release.
How to Administer Liquid Oral Medications to Pets
Step-by-step "how to" on how to give your cat or dog liquid medication using a dropper.
Step-by-step "how to" on how to give your cat or dog liquid medication using a dropper.
Farnam Introduces Bite Free™ Granular Larvicide for Mosquito Control - Kill Mosquitoes Before They Hatch
In this press release from Farnam Companies, Inc., learn about a new product that stops the mosquito life cycle where it begins; the larval stage that matures in areas of standing water (ponds, lakes, even bird baths and pet water sources). Farnam reports that this product is safe for humans, pets and livestock.
In this press release from Farnam Companies, Inc., learn about a new product that stops the mosquito life cycle where it begins; the larval stage that matures in areas of standing water (ponds, lakes, even bird baths and pet water sources). Farnam reports that this product is safe for humans, pets and livestock.
Tissumend II Sterile - Sterile Tissue Adhesive For Internal Tissue Surgery
New product announcement - Tissumend II Sterile, by Veterinary Products Laboratories (VPL), the first and only sterile synthetic absorbable tissue adhesive that effectively closes surgical wounds and internal tissues.
New product announcement - Tissumend II Sterile, by Veterinary Products Laboratories (VPL), the first and only sterile synthetic absorbable tissue adhesive that effectively closes surgical wounds and internal tissues.
New Year's Resolutions for Pet Owners: Tips for enhancing animals' lives and our own
It is the start of a new year, and people's thoughts often turn to diet and exercise, making up for holiday indulgences. But there are more things to consider than simply diet and exercise when it comes to being a good pet owner and animal lover. Here, in no particular order, are 10 tips to a healthier lifestyle for animals in need and our own pets.
It is the start of a new year, and people's thoughts often turn to diet and exercise, making up for holiday indulgences. But there are more things to consider than simply diet and exercise when it comes to being a good pet owner and animal lover. Here, in no particular order, are 10 tips to a healthier lifestyle for animals in need and our own pets.
Veterinary Q & A - Holiday Emergencies: Why does it seem that everything happens when the vet's office is closed?
Is my pet really sick, or can it wait? I don't have enough money for an emergency vet. What should you do when you suspect that your pet is ill and your vet's office is closed? Tips to help figure out the best plan of action for the health of your pet.
Is my pet really sick, or can it wait? I don't have enough money for an emergency vet. What should you do when you suspect that your pet is ill and your vet's office is closed? Tips to help figure out the best plan of action for the health of your pet.
From the Mailbag: Dog Days of Summer
A viewer asks: "Does the color of the coat of a dog make much difference in the dog-days of summer?" Learn the answers to this interesting seasonal question.
A viewer asks: "Does the color of the coat of a dog make much difference in the dog-days of summer?" Learn the answers to this interesting seasonal question.
The Viewer Viewpoint - The Gift of Sight
Viewer-submitted piece describing her pet's diagnosis with diabetes, followed by blindess in both eyes. Thankfully, the diabetes is under control, and a successful eye surgery regained her pet's sight.
Viewer-submitted piece describing her pet's diagnosis with diabetes, followed by blindess in both eyes. Thankfully, the diabetes is under control, and a successful eye surgery regained her pet's sight.
VPL introduces a MicroDose™ Syringe applicator for Tissumend™II
Veterinary Products Laboratories (VPL) has introduced an easier way to apply its patented Tissumend™II--the only synthetic, absorbable surgical tissue adhesive available to veterinarians with the new MicroDose™ syringe.
Veterinary Products Laboratories (VPL) has introduced an easier way to apply its patented Tissumend™II--the only synthetic, absorbable surgical tissue adhesive available to veterinarians with the new MicroDose™ syringe.