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46 results for “PCR test”
How is feline rhinotracheitis (cat flu) in kittens treated?
Cat flu is dangerous in kittens and can be fatal untreated. Diagnose via symptoms plus PCR. Treat with interferon/antiviral proteins and amoxicillin or doxycycline to prevent bacterial infection; add lysine to curb viral replication and boost immunity; disinfect the environment thoroughly.
What Is Feline Panleukopenia?
Panleukopenia is a fast, fatal-sounding viral disease — but fear comes from not understanding it. Infection needs three things: a source, a route, and low immunity, so even a cat that never goes out can be at risk.
Canine Parvovirus: Symptoms and Treatment
Canine parvovirus is an acute, highly contagious infection that hits puppies hardest and carries a high death rate. It shows as either severe hemorrhagic enteritis or sudden heart failure, and because mixed infections are common, quick recognition matters. Supportive care, fluids, and vaccination are the cornerstones.
Symptoms of Canine Distemper: Early, Middle, and Late Stages
Canine distemper is a highly contagious, often fatal viral disease that mainly strikes unvaccinated puppies, with death rates up to 90 percent in young dogs. The virus, which survives for weeks when frozen but breaks down at 50 to 60 C, spreads by contact and airborne droplets and appears as respiratory, digestive, neurologic, or skin forms. Early signs are lethargy, fever of 39.5 to 41 C, eye and nose discharge, sneezing, and diarrhea; the middle stage adds pus-like discharge, vomiting, and appetite loss; the late stage brings neurologic signs such as paresis, ataxia, and seizures. Diagnosis uses test kits, blood work, and PCR, and care focuses on vaccination, immune support, and symptom control.
Why Your Cat Keeps Sneezing
An occasional sneeze is nothing, but frequent sneezing with discharge, eye issues, or coughing can hide something serious. Causes span environment, infection, and even facial structure, from dust and viruses to flat-faced-breed anatomy. This guide explains the reasons, when to see a vet, and how to care for and prevent sneezing fits.
What Is Feline Haemobartonellosis?
Feline haemobartonellosis, also called infectious anemia, is a rare but serious disease caused by a blood parasite that attacks red cells and triggers their destruction. It spreads through bites, scratches, fleas and ticks, and from mother to kitten, with outdoor and unneutered males at higher risk. Signs range from fever and lethargy to pale, yellow-tinged gums; diagnosis is by blood smear or PCR. Treatment uses antibiotics such as doxycycline or enrofloxacin plus supportive care, though the cat stays a lifelong carrier.
Canine and Feline Cryptosporidiosis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Cryptosporidiosis is a protozoal (coccidian) infection of dogs and cats that causes acute, watery diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. It is most severe in young, stressed, or immunocompromised animals and is zoonotic, so hygiene is essential.
Canine and Feline Giardiasis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Giardiasis is caused by the flagellate Giardia duodenalis attached to the intestinal mucosa, reducing absorption and causing diarrhea and wasting, especially in puppies. It is treated with antiprotozoal drugs and rehydration.
Canine and Feline Amoebiasis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Amoebiasis is a zoonotic protozoal disease caused by Entamoeba histolytica inhabiting the large intestine, marked by stubborn diarrhea. Dogs have lower incidence, and it is treated with antiprotozoal drugs and fluid support.
Canine and Feline Toxoplasmosis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Toxoplasmosis is caused by Toxoplasma gondii, with cats as the definitive host; dogs and cats are often silently infected but can develop respiratory and nervous signs. It is treated with sulfonamide-based anticoccidial therapy.