Search Results
145 results for “older dog”
Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs and Cats
Diabetes mellitus in dogs and cats is a disorder of insulin deficiency or resistance that causes persistently high blood sugar. Classic signs are excessive drinking, eating, and urinating with weight loss, and treatment centers on diet, insulin or other glucose-lowering medication, and monitoring.
Hyperthyroidism in Dogs and Cats
Hyperthyroidism is excess thyroid hormone from a thyroid tumor or hyperplasia that raises metabolism and nerve excitability. It causes weight loss with increased appetite, a fast or irregular heartbeat, and hyperactivity, and is managed with antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine, or surgery.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dogs and Cats
Intervertebral disc disease occurs when a degenerate disc bulges or herniates and compresses the spinal cord, causing pain, incoordination, and paralysis. It is most common in small or older chondrodystrophic dogs and rarely resolves without treatment.
Cervical Spondylomyelopathy (Wobbler Syndrome) in Dogs and Cats
Cervical spondylomyelopathy, also called Wobbler syndrome, is a progressive compression of the cervical spinal cord that causes weakening and incoordination of all four limbs. It is most often seen in young Great Danes and middle-aged to older Dobermans, and both conservative and surgical care may be needed.
Hepatic Encephalopathy in Dogs and Cats
Hepatic encephalopathy is a neurological syndrome in dogs and cats caused by liver dysfunction that allows toxic metabolites such as ammonia to reach the brain. It produces recurring signs ranging from lethargy and ataxia to seizures, circling, and coma, and is often triggered by high-protein meals, gastrointestinal bleeding, or dehydration.
Mastitis in Dogs and Cats
Mastitis is acute or chronic inflammation of the mammary gland from infection, often during lactation or from hormonal imbalance in older pets. Signs include red, swollen, painful glands and fever; it needs prompt antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory treatment to avoid gland loss.
Uterine Prolapse in Dogs
Uterine prolapse is turning inside-out and protrusion of part or all of the uterus through the vagina or vulva, usually after whelping or abortion and more often in older dogs. It can cause infertility and severe bleeding, and is treated by surgical replacement or ovariohysterectomy.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Dogs
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common age-related enlargement of the prostate in older male dogs, leading to difficult defecation, constipation, reduced urine output, blood in urine, and a full bladder. Castration is the most effective treatment.
Pulmonary Emphysema in Dogs and Cats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Pulmonary emphysema is over-inflation of the lungs from too much air in the tissue, causing labored, wheezy breathing. It may be primary (exertion) or secondary to chronic airway disease, and is managed by treating the underlying condition and supporting breathing.
Bronchopneumonia in Dogs and Cats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Bronchopneumonia (lobular pneumonia) is inflammation of the small airways and alveoli, marked by high swinging fever, rapid breathing, and focal lung sounds. It is treated aggressively with antibiotics, cough and phlegm control, and supportive care.