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1688 results for “abnormal”
Why Dogs Lick Their Genitals and When to Worry
Some genital licking is normal grooming, but excessive licking often signals a discharge from an underlying problem. The causes differ between males and females — here is what to watch for and how the vet investigates.
Chylothorax in Dogs: Causes and Diagnosis
Chylothorax is the buildup of chyle — a milky lymphatic fluid — in the chest. Finding and treating the underlying cause is the key step; many cases are idiopathic. Here is how the condition develops and how vets confirm it.
What to Do When Your Dog Has Difficulty Defecating
Straining to poop — painful, prolonged, or incomplete defecation — can be temporary or a sign of something serious. Causes range from simple constipation to masses, hernias, or prostate disease. Here is what the vet checks.
How Lymphoma in Dogs Is Diagnosed
If lymphoma is suspected, the vet starts with a full history and physical exam, then adds tests to confirm lymphosarcoma and rule out other diseases. Fine-needle aspiration is the most common first step.
What to Do When Your Dog Suddenly Starts Limping
A sudden limp often starts with a paw injury from thorns or glass, a muscle strain, or a fracture. Long-term lameness with deformities may point to rickets or calcium deficiency. Persistent or severe cases need an X-ray.
When Your Cat Struggles to Use the Litter Box
Straining in the litter box can mean lower urinary tract disease or a bowel problem such as constipation. Male cats with a urinary blockage are in danger, and repeated vomiting from straining is a red flag for urgent care.
What Is Coccidiosis in Cats and Dogs
Coccidia are single-celled gut parasites that hit young cats and dogs hard and can spread to people as chronic diarrhea. A fecal check confirms infection, and sulfonamide or amprolium treatment needs follow-up tests to prevent relapse.
What to Do When a Cat or Dog Has Difficult Labor
Dystocia means the mother can't pass the puppies or kittens without help. It stems from the mother's weak contractions or the fetus's size or position — and recognizing the warning signs early is what saves the litter.
What to Do When Your Cat or Dog Is Constipated
Constipation means stool stalls in the gut, hardens, and can even block it. Recognizing the straining early, getting the right care, and adjusting diet and water intake afterward prevents most repeat episodes.
Why Your Cat Is Shedding
Both long- and short-haired cats shed daily, and you can't stop it, only manage it. Seasonal change, the wrong shampoo, or stress are the usual reasons, with endocrine disease a rarer one. Brush often, use a cat-specific wash, and comfort a stressed cat to cut the loss.