Archive
Mammary Tumors in Dogs and Cats
Mammary tumors are common in intact female dogs and are the third most common feline tumor. They often appear as firm nodules in the mammary chain and can ulcerate or spread to lymph nodes and lungs. Early spaying sharply lowers risk, and surgery is the main treatment.
Penile and Preputial Tumors in Dogs and Cats
Tumors of the penis and prepuce are uncommon and, when reported, have been seen only in dogs. Types include papilloma, transmissible venereal tumor, squamous cell carcinoma, fibroma, lymphosarcoma, and hemangioma. Growths may ulcerate, bleed, and produce a foul discharge.
Transmissible Venereal Tumors in Dogs and Cats
Transmissible venereal tumor is a contagious cancer spread between dogs through mating or close contact, destroying the external genitals and nearby mucosa. It appears as a friable, cauliflower-like mass that may bleed and ulcerate. Surgery, freezing, or anti-cancer medication can clear it.
Prostatic Tumors in Dogs and Cats
Prostatic tumors occur mainly in middle-aged and older dogs and mimic benign prostatic conditions. Adenocarcinoma is the most serious type and can spread to local lymph nodes, spine, and pelvis. Signs include weight loss, thirst, back pain, and difficulty urinating.
Sertoli Cell Tumors in Dogs and Cats
Sertoli cell tumors are hormone-producing testicular tumors of older male dogs and cats that cause feminization through excess estrogen. Signs include symmetrical hair loss, enlarged breasts, and a lengthened prepuce. Surgical removal of both testicles resolves most signs within a few months.
Testicular Tumors in Dogs and Cats
Testicular tumors are among the more common tumors in older dogs and are rare in cats. They often cause feminization from excess estrogen, including attraction from other males and symmetrical hair loss. Surgical removal of the affected testicle is the standard treatment, and neutering prevents the disease.
Vaginal and Vestibular Tumors in Dogs and Cats
Vaginal and vestibular tumors are the second most common reproductive tract tumor in female dogs and cats, ranging from benign leiomyomas to transmissible venereal tumors. Signs include a mass protruding from the vulva, difficulty urinating, and bloody or pus-like discharge. Surgical removal is the main treatment.
Uterine Tumors in Dogs and Cats
Uterine tumors are uncommon in dogs and cats, with leiomyomas being the most frequently seen type. They often produce no obvious signs and are found incidentally during abdominal palpation or ultrasound, though bleeding from the vulva can occur. Surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries is the treatment of choice.
Aminoglycoside Antibiotic Poisoning in Dogs and Cats
Overuse of aminoglycoside antibiotics such as gentamicin damages the kidneys and the ear nerve and can block nerve-to-muscle signalling. There is no antidote, so stopping the drug and supporting kidney and nerve function are essential.
Postpartum Eclampsia (Puerperal Tetany) in Dogs and Cats
Postpartum eclampsia (puerperal tetany) in dogs and cats is an acute low-blood-calcium crisis in nursing mothers, usually 2 to 4 weeks after whelping, causing restlessness, stiffness, and violent seizures that can be fatal without prompt calcium treatment. It is an emergency requiring immediate veterinary care.