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What is megacolon in a cat and how is it treated?
How can tartar formation on a dog’s teeth be prevented?
What causes hematuria in a dog?
Can I use human triple antibiotic ointment on my dog?
Why is my dog's nose so dry and crusty?
My dog has a small sore on her ankle. Can I treat it with Neosporin or Polysporin?
How can we rid our pets of fleas?
My kitten has a fly larva inside its neck. Is this a serious problem?
My puppy keeps urinating in the house. What is the best way to clean up the mess?
What normal maintenance care does my cat need?
Why should I neuter my cat?
Why should I neuter my dog when I can prevent him from mating with another dog?
Since my male dog was neutered, his appetite seems to have increased. Is this normal?
Should I breed my dog?
What could cause uncontrolled urination in a cocker spaniel?
What causes rectal prolapse in a ferret?
Are preputial discharges normal in dogs?
What causes “pimples” on a dog’s abdomen?
What is the treatment for Bordetella infection?
Is melena normal?
What symptoms appear in a cat with antifreeze intoxication?
What supplement will help a dog develop a shiny coat?
How do I introduce my dog to a new dog?
Can giving glucosamine for long periods be harmful to dogs?
What can cause vomiting and the presence of sugar in the urine?
My dog was recently spayed. Will she still need to get her anal sacs expressed?
What is feline acne and how is it treated?
Should a dog with a history of mammary cancer be given estrogen?
Can a nerve injury in a dog be repaired?
Will spaying help lower the risk of breast cancer in dogs?
How much should we be feeding our dog Bingo?
I think my dog has cataracts. Can this condition be treated?
How can I stop my cat from defecating outside the litter box?
Can surgery significantly help a damaged cruciate ligament?
What causes “stud tail” in a cat?
How long will my puppy continue waking up at night?
Why does my indoor pet need vaccinations?
I’ve just brought home a new puppy – what do I need to do?
How can I remove ticks from my dog and cat without harming the pets?
I think my pet may have fleas. How can I check?
What is the prognosis for oral cancer in a cat?
What happens when a dog injures its radial nerve?
What is lupus in dogs and how is it treated?
Do ferrets get along with dogs?
My dog was vaccinated as a puppy. Does he need ongoing vaccinations?
How can I keep flies away from my outdoor dog?
My dog is always scooting around the floor on his rear. What could be his problem?
I found a lump on my dog. Is this a cause for concern?
Why does my puppy hiccup?
Why is chocolate bad for dogs?
My cat is tearing up our house and I’m considering declawing. Is this a good idea?
What causes an anal sac to rupture and drain?
Can dogs with myasthenia gravis have a normal quality of life?
Is a vaccination reaction normal in dogs?
Should a hermaphroditic dog be neutered?
Could asthma cause a dog to cough and choke?
How can I tell if my cat has a cold?
How can I tell if my cat is pregnant?
I have to board my dog for about a week. How stressful will it be to him?
My female dog leaks urine when she rests or sleeps. Why is this happening?
My friend is allergic to cats and has trouble sitting on our sofa. Any suggestions?
How do I brush my dog's teeth?
Can my cat get heartworms?
My dog has dry rough spots his elbows. What is this, and is there a treatment?
What is thyroid carcinoma in a dog?
What causes a rat’s tears to look red?
What is a cholecystectomy?
How can one tell if a cat is in heat?
What is rectal prolapse?
Does my indoor pet really need a collar with identification?
How can I tell if my dog has an ear infection?
How can I tell if my pet has a fever?
How do I prevent my rabbit from having problems with hairballs?
We’re having a baby in three months. How can we help our dog accept the new addition to our family?
How can I prevent my cat from vomiting hair-balls?
My dog has this fleshy, thickened, hairless area over its elbow. What is this?
Why are onions dangerous for dogs and cats?
How can I get rid of my dog's foul body odor?
What's a good exercise routine for my dog?
My cat is pregnant. How will I know when she is ready to give birth?
How can I stop my cat from urinating outside the litter box?
What does it mean when my dog “twitches” or “jerks” while it’s asleep?
Sometimes my dog makes a weird gagging, snorting noise. Is this a problem?
My dog eats feces every time he goes outside. Is this unhealthy?
What is cryptorchidism in a cat?
If eaten, are Easter lilies and peace lilies toxic to cats?
What causes flatus in dogs?
What causes excessive salivation in dogs and cats?
What is megacolon in a cat and how is it treated?
Category: Feline
My nine-year old cat has been diagnosed with a condition called megacolon. My veterinarian has given me two options: surgery or euthanasia. Could you give me information about this condition? I need to know what the quality of life would be like for the cat if we were to elect to have the surgical procedure done. Are there any other alternatives?
It is a bowel disorder that is treated surgically if medical treatment fails or is inappropriate.
Feline megacolon is a bowel disorder in which the colon is chronically enlarged or dilated. There are many possible causes, which may be congenital, acquired, or idiopathic (cause not known). Congenital megacolon is believed to result from a congenital lack of certain colonic nerve cells, leading to motility problems and bowel obstruction. Congenital megacolon occurs relatively infrequently in cats.
Acquired megacolon may result from numerous possible pathologic processes, which may occur inside or outside the colon and may or may not involve metabolic or neurological disorders. A considerable number of cases occur without an identifiable cause. Constipation and injuries to the pelvis are frequently encountered known causes of megacolon in cats. Ingested foreign bodies are a partially preventable cause of this condition as well.
Diagnosis of megacolon is based on the affected cat’s history, and on physical examination and x-ray findings. Cats with megacolon typically will be chronically constipated, or obstipated, with no passage of feces. If not treated promptly, complications may occur, including intestinal obstruction, fecal incontinence, and overgrowth of bowel bacteria, which results from bowel immotility. Cats experiencing these complications may vomit and may be lethargic and anorexic (have no appetite). Cats with these symptoms may die if not treated.
Feline megacolon is a syndrome rather than a specific disease. Consequently, identifying the underlying cause of the megacolon, if feasible, and treating that cause, if possible, is important. Treatment of megacolon per se may include conservative medical therapy or surgery. Sometimes medical treatment alone is sufficient; however, in many cases medical treatment fails and surgery will be required to save the cat’s life. In some cases surgery is the treatment of choice.
Medical treatment of megacolon involves removing the impacted feces by giving multiple warm water enemas over two to four days. Many cats have to be sedated or put under general anesthesia to allow the veterinarian to manually and gently remove the feces from the rectum. If anorexia or lethargy is present, antibiotics and fluid supportive therapy may be given.
Once the rectum is evacuated, future fecal impaction may possibly be prevented by adding fiber to a moist diet, such as psyllium-based supplements or canned pumpkin pie filling. Administration of laxatives and/or prokinetic drugs that help improve the motility of the colon may be helpful. Providing clean litter may help to encourage defecation, and help maintain bowel motility.
Surgery involves removing most of the colon (lower bowel). This procedure is called subtotal colectomy. Most otherwise healthy cats tolerate the surgery well. Surgery often cures the problem, and typically the constipation resolves. Post-operatively most do not experience any significant problems. Some cats may have soft stools after surgery or increased frequency of defecation, but they are rarely fecally incontinent.
If owners are unable to properly manage a cat with megacolon, and surgery is not an option due to concerns such as expense, then euthanasia is a humane alternative. 09/29/00 Return to top
How can tartar formation on a dog’s teeth be prevented?
Category: Canine
My young beagle's teeth accumulate tartar very rapidly. They have already been professionally cleaned once and shortly thereafter the teeth appeared to have significant tartar where his gums looked sore. Is there anything I can to do at home to prevent this?
By brushing the dog’s teeth regularly in addition to veterinary dental care.
Dental plaque is a matrix of bacterial and salivary compounds that adhere to the enamel of the teeth. This material mineralizes into calculus (tartar) within a few days of professional teeth cleaning. Once plaque hardens to become calculus, a veterinarian must remove it by manual or electronic scaling.
Brushing the teeth regularly is the major way to prevent the accumulation of plaque on tooth surfaces and in crevices. The mechanical action of the toothbrush above and below the gum line is needed to limit this accumulation. Brushing the pet's teeth is not easy with all pets and is best begun at an early age to familiarize the pet with the process. Since your dog is young, it may be very easy to train to accept this procedure.
A veterinarian or technician will offer guidance in the best method of brushing and the best products to use such as toothpastes and brushes. Human toothpastes are not acceptable choices because they should not be swallowed.
Chew toys such as CET chews and rawhide strips, Kong Toys, Nylabones, tartar-preventing foods and rinses or gels are other products employed to limit the accumulation of plaque.
Please discuss these preventive strategies with your veterinarian. He or she may recommend another dental procedure to get your dog back to square two with clean teeth.
Please visit our VetCentric Encyclopedia for more information; see "Dental Disease, Canine."
07/29/03Return to top
What causes hematuria in a dog?
Category: Canine
I recently noticed blood in my dog’s urine. The veterinarian put her on antibiotics, but they don’t seem to be helping. What could cause this? Urinary tract infection, bladder stones, and other problems may cause hematuria.
Bloody urine can be associated with local problems of the genitourinary tract or with a systemic bleeding tendency. In the absence of other signs of systemic bleeding or hemorrhage, a local problem is more likely.
Hematuria (blood in the urine) is commonly associated with urinary tract infection (UTI), especially if the infection is localized to the lower urinary tract or bladder. Patients with bladder problems are likely to have urgency, straining, and frequent urination. They may experience temporary incontinence, or loss of control, because of irritation to the sphincter. Generally, antibiotics are prescribed for urinary tract infections diagnosed on clinical grounds. Failure of these signs to respond to an antibiotic does not exclude the possibility of urinary infection. It is possible for the bacteria to be resistant to a given antibiotic choice. In such cases, securing a bacterial culture and susceptibility helps to verify or to rule out infection and to determine the best antibiotic choices.
UTI is frequently associated with the presence of bladder stthrees, which may also contribute to hematuria. Bladder stthrees can form over a few weeks or months or years. Most dog patients with struvite stthrees, the most common type of bladder stthrees associated with infection, develop the condition by middle age. Other types of stones, which are metabolic in origin or breed related, might form at a very early age. Many stones will appear on survey x-rays.
It would seem then that your dog might still have a resistant urinary tract infection with or without bladder or kidney stones.
Older dog patients, with signs of hematuria and straining while urinating, that fail to respond completely to antibiotics may have a bladder tumor that has become secondarily infected. Such signs typically progress over weeks to months. Embryonic tumors have been documented in young dogs, but these are genuinely rare.
If patients have blood in the urine without signs of straining or urgency, an upper urinary source is more likely. Dogs seem to show few signs of pain associated with the presence of kidney stones. The appearance of blood in the urine in these cases may support a diagnosis of kidney stone(s) or kidney infection. Radiographs are indicated if stones are suspected.
Less commonly we see hematuria as a vascular problem of the kidney. Essential renal hematuria is an uncommon diagnosis, which is associated with mild to severe bleeding from one or both kidneys. Some patients experience life-threatening anemia or chronic anemia and iron deficiency as a result. Obstruction of the bladder or urethra with blood clots can occur, although this is more common in male dogs.
Renal hematuria is sought as a possible cause only when other more common problems, including bleeding and clotting problems, have been ruled out. Selective ureteral catheterization and tissue sampling are needed for verification, either through surgery or cystoscopy.
Most bleeding disorders can be investigated by a combination of physical exam and laboratory testing. Common problems with clotting that could present as hematuria include low platelets (thrombocytopenia) and exposure to Vitamin K antagonist rodenticides (warfarin based) compounds.
If your dog’s problems persist, you may wish to speak with your veterinarian about referral to a veterinary specialist for abdominal ultrasound, contrast study of the bladder or kidneys or other diagnostic testing of her bloody urine.
09/29/00Return to top
Can I use human triple antibiotic ointment on my dog?
Category: Canine
My dog has a small sore on her ankle. It is not swollen or hot to the touch. Can I use NeosporinÒ or PolysporinÒ for humans on it?
Yes, for simple scrapes and abrasions. It is okay to use human triple antibiotic ointment on simple scrapes or abrasions, but if your dog's skin lesion is more extensive or does not resolve itself within three to four days, you should have your dog checked by your veterinarian. Some skin lesions have an underlying cause that needs to be diagnosed in order to determine the treatment necessary to allow the wound to heal. In some cases what appears to be a superficial wound is actually a small puncture that is festering below the surface. If you find that the affected area becomes swollen, tender or reddened it needs the care of your veterinarian.
08/22/03 Return to top
Why is my dog's nose so dry and crusty?
Category: Canine
My dog is six years old and has an extremely hard, dry, crusty nose. Parts of it even flake off. It used to be shiny and moist. What causes this and is it serious?
There are several possible causes.
There are numerous causes for a dry, crusty nose. This is definitely a problem that a veterinarian or veterinary dermatologist should address for you. Some potential causes include endocrine or hormonal disorders, disorders of the immune system, infectious agents, inflammatory diseases, underlying metabolic disorders, and cancer. Some older dogs just get a dry nose as part of the aging process.
The history of the problem, physical exam findings, and diagnostic tests are all used in diagnosing and treating the problem. As far as diagnostics, a blood chemistry panel and urinalysis are excellent screening tests to narrow the range of possible problems. Conducting more specific blood tests can eliminate most of the remaining diagnostic possibilities. Additionally, a skin scraping, impression smear, and skin biopsy are procedures that may be needed to make definitive diagnosis.
Your veterinarian may be able to do all of these procedures or may wish to refer you to a veterinarian who specializes in dermatologic disorders. Good luck in your endeavors.
08/01/00 Return to top
My dog has a small sore on her ankle. Can I treat it with Neosporin or Polysporin?
Category: Canine
My dog has a small sore on her ankle. It is not swollen or hot to the touch. Can I use Neosporin or Polysporin for humans on it?
It depends on the sore.
It is okay to use human triple antibiotic ointment on simple scrapes or abrasions, but if your dog's skin lesion is more extensive or does not resolve itself within three to four days, you should have your dog checked by your veterinarian. Some skin lesions have an underlying cause that needs to be diagnosed in order to determine the treatment necessary to allow the wound to heal. In some cases what appears to be a superficial wound is actually a small puncture that is festering below the surface. If you find that the affected area becomes swollen, tender or reddened it needs the care of your veterinarian.
08/01/00 Return to top
How can we rid our pets of fleas?
Category: Canine,Feline
We have two cats and two dogs, all of which are severely infested with fleas. I have used dips, sprays, and flea collars, and have treated the yard as well. We still have fleas, and they are driving our animals crazy. What should we do?
It takes a lot of work.
Fleas continue to be an important problem of animal husbandry despite the advances in flea-control products. Using conventional insecticides, one must address fleas on the pet, in the house, and in the environment, a three-pronged approach.
Dips are not safe when used often enough to be effective. Flea collars are not generally useful, and sprays must be applied regularly to have maximum kill. The yard products, such as organophosphates, should help eliminate environmental fleas. You may wish to treat the shady areas of the yard, under bushes and trees, where ultraviolet light does not penetrate, especially if the pets lie there. You did not indicate whether the animals enter the house or garage, or if they go in the car, but all areas that your pets visit must be treated, especially with growth hormone regulators. The entire environment and the pets must be treated concurrently; the clean, flea-free animals must be housed in a flea-free area while the premises are treated. After vacuuming the area rugs, be sure to throw the vacuum bag away.
Despite the apparent expense of the new, topical products such as Frontline or Advantage, these products have proved themselves highly effective in such situations. They should be safe for all members of the household. Please discuss their utility with your veterinarian. He or she will assess your situation and customize a flea-control plan for you as economically as possible.
For more information about fleas, please refer to the VetCentric Encyclopedia article titled, "Flea Control, Canine and Feline."
06/06/03 Return to top
My kitten has a fly larva inside its neck. Is this a serious problem?
Category: Feline
My kitten has a small hole in the side of its neck with a worm inside. The veterinarian said it's a fly larva and that it's fairly common. What exactly is this and what causes it?
It can be serious, I'm afraid.
What you are describing sounds like infection with a Cuterebra larva. The source of these grubs is a large Cuterebra fly that deposits its eggs near the burrow of an animal. Natural hosts include chipmunks, squirrels and rabbits, but the flies can infect both dogs and cats by accident.
When the pet passes by the location of the eggs, they hatch and the first stage larvae crawl through the fur and enter the body through a natural body opening. Your kitten probably had a small skin wound where the insect is now residing. The larva burrows into the skin and lives in a pocket of inflammatory tissue that results from this foreign invader’s presence in the kitten’s skin. The insect is easily identified because you can see it moving and coming up for air through its breathing hole. Your veterinarian should be able to remove this parasite with little difficulty; any remaining infection may need to be treated topically and possibly with oral antibiotics.
In some of these cases the larva can actually enter through the nose or mouth, and migrate through the brain and cause death. This doesn’t occur often but is a serious complication.
Prevention may be accomplished by treating your pet with an insecticide product that will kill fly larva. Speak to your veterinarian about which products your doctor recommends.
This problem occurs more commonly in the late summer and early fall.
05/02/02 Return to top
My puppy keeps urinating in the house. What is the best way to clean up the mess?
Category: Canine
My puppy is constantly relieving himself all over the house. It's driving me crazy! Can you suggest a way to clean it up?
Use an odor neutralizer.
Most puppies have at least a few accidents during the housebreaking stage. These need to be thoroughly cleaned up so that the puppy does not return to the same s pot in the future. If your puppy is having many accidents, you should readjust your housebreaking techniques.
The best way to clean up a spot of urine is to soak up as much of it as possible. If the spot is on linoleum or another hard surface, paper towels and disinfectant can be used. If the urine spot is on a rug, cover the spot with a paper towel and some layers of newspaper. You can stand on the spot to draw out as much urine as possible.
Once the urine is soaked up, it is necessary to use an odor neutralizer to eliminate the lingering odor of ammonia. If a dog smells any residual urine odor, it is likely to urinate in the same area again. Many pet stores and veterinarians carry effective urine odor neutralizers.
Remember that your puppy is just like a baby and needs to be monitored at all times. Most puppies will show subtle signs that they need to go to the bathroom prior to having an accident. If you can’t be right there beside your puppy at all times, it should be left in a crate. A dog views a crate as a private den that it will not want to soil with urine or feces.
It is also important to establish a set routine and stick to it every day. Most puppies need to eliminate frequently when they are young, especially after heavy eating or playing. Paper training is used by some owner, but this method should be viewed as a temporary approach to training. Crate training is a much more efficient means of housebreaking a dog.
08/01/00 Return to top
What normal maintenance care does my cat need?
Category: Feline
What's the best way to keep my cat healthy? What kind of maintenance care does she need?
Visit the veterinarian regularly.
All kittens should go through examinations, deworming, multiple vaccinations, and neutering. After these are completed, your trips to the veterinarian will be much less frequent. Most healthy adult cats need to visit the veterinarian only once a year.
Vaccinations are continued throughout a cat’s life. Most vaccinations are given once a year, although a rabies shot may be given as little as every three years based on the laws in your region. Outdoor cats are at a higher risk of contracting a fatal feline virus, and so require more vaccinations than those that stay indoors. We recommend that you keep your cat inside.
It is a good idea to have a sample of your cat’s feces evaluated for parasites at least every one to two years. Outdoor cats are at increased risk of being exposed to parasites and should probably have this test done twice a year.
Heartworm medication is recommended to prevent heartworm infections in indoor and outdoor cats. Since mosquitoes can get inside the house, indoor cats are at risk of heartworm infection. This flavored medication is given once a month and is available from your veterinarian.
Monitor your cat’s skin and haircoat for any signs of parasites or hair loss. Fleas and ticks not only are nuisances for cats that go outside, but also may cause diseases in your pet. Contact your veterinarian for safe and effective treatment and prevention products.
Routine brushing significantly reduces the incidence of hairballs and provides bonding time between you and your cat. This is especially important for heavy shedders, longhaired cats, and geriatric animals that may have trouble grooming themselves. A hairball remedy or treat may be used to help ingested fur move through the digestive tract and reduce the number of hairballs your cat vomits.
Maintain that perfect pedicure. Cats should have their toenails trimmed periodically to keep them from damaging your house, furniture, and skin. If this practice is started at a young age, the cat will tolerate it more easily throughout its life. Have an experienced person help you the first few times that you attempt to trim your cat’s toenails.
Feel like brushing your cat’s teeth? Some cats will tolerate brushing if it is started gradually and made a pleasant experience. Veterinary toothpaste must be used to prevent stomach upset. Most of these toothpastes are available in a chicken or tuna flavor that cats find appealing. Consult your veterinarian about brushing techniques and supplies.
Feed your cat a good quality adult maintenance cat food. It is not necessary to feed canned or semi-soft food or to provide a variety of food types, as feeding variation can lead to the creation of a finicky eater, not to mention stomach upset or diarrhea from abrupt changes in the diet. Dry kibble may help keep your cat’s teeth and gums in better condition.
Be sure to provide plenty of fresh water daily. Some cats do not like to drink standing water. Drinking fountains, which have become widely available, may be a better idea for these felines.
Scoop the cat litter daily. Most cats are very picky about bathroom facilities, including the brand of litter that you use. Once you find a brand that you both find acceptable, stick with it for the long haul. This will cut down on the possibility of "mistakes" that you could find around the house.
Finally, be sure to give your cat plenty of tender loving attention and play time. Playing games will help keep that indoor cat from becoming overweight. Plus, those fun times together are what build a strong bond between pet and owner.
08/01/00 Return to top
Why should I neuter my cat?
Category: Feline
Why is it important to neuter a cat?
Pet overpopulation is a major problem.
Most people are aware that there are too many cats in the world, but some still fail to have their cat neutered. A male cat can impregnate numerous female cats, while female cats can give birth to multiple litters in one season.
There are also various medical reasons why cats should be neutered. Intact female cats run an increased risk of certain mammary tumors, uterine infections, and uterine and ovarian Intact male cats, or toms, are more likely to mark their territory by spraying urine in places that include the inside of your house. Most people find the strong odor of tomcat urine almost unbearable, and it is virtually impossible to get it out of carpets and furniture.
Cats that are neutered are likely to roam less, and hence have a decreased risk of being hit by a car, getting into cat fights that can transmit fatal viral infections, and being a nuisance to the neighborhood. A neutered cat, male or female, is likely to live a longer and healthier life, especially if it is kept indoors.
10/13/03 Return to top
Why should I neuter my dog when I can prevent him from mating with another dog?
Category: Canine
I can keep my dog from mating with other dogs, so why is it important to get him neutered?
Neutering may protect him from cancer.
Most of us are told to neuter our pets to decrease the overabundance of unadopted dogs that are put to death in animal shelters. Although this is a valid argument, it is not the sole reason that neutering should be considered.
Unneutered male dogs have a higher incidence of certain cancers and prostatic diseases. Female dogs that are left intact are more likely to develop mammary tumors, uterine and ovarian cancers, and uterine infections. All of these medical conditions can be quite serious, and may even result in a shortened life span for your companion. Neutered pets tend to live longer and enjoy a healthier life.
Dogs that resist training may also benefit from neutering, because after the procedure they more likely to accept the owner’s leadership. Neutered dogs are also less likely to roam the neighborhood—and hence have a lesser risk of being hit by a car, being involved in a dogfight, or becoming a nuisance to your neighbors.
08/01/00 Return to top
Since my male dog was neutered, his appetite seems to have increased. Is this normal?
Category: Canine
I had my male dog neutered recently, and since then, he's been hungry all the time. Is this normal?
Watch those extra calories.
Neutering is an important part of pet health care. It prevents unwanted litters (millions of animals are destroyed each year!), and eliminates the possibility of testicular cancer. It also greatly reduces the risk of prostatic infections as dogs get older.
Following castration (neutering), some dogs will experience a decrease in desire for exercise. They also tend to become more interested in family members, and food also takes on an increased importance to them. Because of the decreased exercise tendency, and the increased interest in food, castrated male dogs are more prone to obesity than intact males.
You can protect your pet from the host of problems that accompany obesity by keeping his weight within an appropriate range. If your dog is on a high calorie diet (such as a performance diet), then consider switching him to a regular or low-fat or light adult diet. By decreasing the calorie content in a cup of food, you can still feed a reasonable volume without adding calories (and weight) to the dog.
Break his daily feeding into two meals. If a dog is fed only in the morning, he is more likely to beg for food at night. Monitor his weight on a weekly basis and adjust his volume of food to maintain an ideal body condition. When offering treats, give one treat, not several. Also, many dogs like low calorie treats such as rice cakes or carrots as much as some of the higher calorie treats. Check with your veterinarian regarding treats and diets if your dog has any dietary sensitivity.
Because your dog’s initiative for exercise may be decreased, make it a point to encourage a regular exercise program. With vigorous daily exercise, the appetite tends to be more regulated, and your dog's health will be improved. Sedentary dogs will gain weight and are more prone to orthopedic problems. By encouraging and joining him in regular exercise, you will find it easier to maintain his weight, and have the added benefit of spending some quality time with him.
08/01/00Return to top
Should I breed my dog?
Category: Canine
I am thinking about breeding my dog. Is this a good idea?
Breeding can be costly and risky.
Unfortunately, most people don’t realize how much work, time and expense is involved in the process of breeding.
The first thing that you must consider is whether your pet should be bred. Most pets, although lovable, are not of breeding quality. Genetic defects and other problems should not be perpetuated, because they can cause serious medical problems for future generations. People who breed dogs for a living are very careful about choosing which dogs they will breed based on physical characteristics and behavior.
Some people decide that it would be fun to breed and just start looking for a dog that has the proper equipment and is willing. This can be a huge mistake. Breeding your pet is a serious endeavor and should not be taken lightly. There are far too many pets that end up in shelters without good homes. If your breed of dog has large litters, what will you do if you are unable to sell the puppies? Do you want to contribute to the pet overpopulation problem?
In addition, there are many good reasons not to breed your dog. First, for the dog’s own health. Male dogs that are neutered are less likely to be hit by cars. This is primarily due to the fact that male dogs have a very strong urge to roam and find a fertile female. Male dogs will go over or under fences, through doors and windows, and will pull leashes out of unsuspecting hands. Additionally, neutering greatly reduces the incidence of prostatic disease and testicular cancer.
Similar health benefits are found by spaying your female dog. If you have your female spayed before a year of age you greatly decrease her chances of developing breast cancer. Additionally, you eliminate the possibility of uterine infections and cancer. Another benefit is that you will not have to clean up after a messy heat cycle, or chase persistent male dogs out of your yard.
If you still feel that you want to breed your pet, note that dogs should be tested for a contagious disease called brucellosis prior to breeding. Not only does this disease cause spontaneous abortion in dogs, but humans can contract it as well. There is a blood test to screen for this disease that can be done by your veterinarian. Because dogs can carry this disease without showing any outward signs, screening for brucellosis is important.
08/01/00 Return to top
What could cause uncontrolled urination in a cocker spaniel?
Category: Canine
My two-year old female cocker spaniel has always urinated when she gets excited, but it seems to be getting worse. We had company this weekend, and she went crazy leaving puddles on the floor, the furniture, and the guests! Could she have a bladder infection, or is this just one of those "cocker" traits?
Excitement urination and possibly a urinary tract infection could cause this.
Your dog has what sounds like excitement urination. Young dogs that are not completely developed neuromuscularly and that have excitable personalities often suffer from this. Generally, any exciting stimulus can trigger excitement urination. Typically, affected dogs outgrow this disorder.
Your cocker spaniel is two years old, so it is unlikely that she will outgrow this problem. Keys to controlling this disorder include the following:
- Take her outside frequently so that she can empty her bladder often and thus keep it empty.
- Try to teach her to relax and ignore excitable situations. The goal is to reduce the excitability in the situations that would otherwise prompt the excitement urination.
- Once you are sure that she is housebroken and has control of her urination, then you can tell her verbally "NO," and not interact or allow interaction with her when she urinates inappropriately.
- Exuberant dogs such as yours often need more exercise on a daily basis.
Be patient with her as I see this in a lot of cocker spaniels! Definitely get her outside more and have her urinate before coming into the house and before company comes over. Also, have your guests and others not get her too excited when they first see her and to not pay a lot of attention to her until she is calmed down.
It is a good idea to have a veterinarian evaluate a urine sample to see if she has a urinary tract infection. Your veterinarian will examine her for other problems as well. Do not allow her to urinate before going to the veterinarian’s office; the doctor will obtain a properly collected sample in the office.
11/19/03 Return to top
What causes rectal prolapse in a ferret?
Category: Exotic
My ferret recently started having loose stools and I fear that she may have gotten into something or eaten something that is causing it. I first noticed about one month ago that her anus protrudes slightly. What causes this? Are the loose stools somehow related to this?
Underlying diseases that increase intra-abdominal pressure.
I suspect that the protruding rectum and the soft stools are related. It sounds like your ferret has rectal prolapse. Rectal prolapse is the protrusion of a portion of the bowel through the anus. This condition usually occurs as a result of an underlying disease or process that increases intra-abdominal pressure. Your ferret is probably straining when defecating, and this raises the intra-abdominal pressure.
The underlying pathology behind the soft stools and straining may be a parasitic or other infection that causes inflammation of the bowel or anus (enteritis and proctitis, respectively). Infections with protozoal parasites such as Coccidia and Giardia are common causes of diarrhea. Proliferative bowel disease or noninfectious inflammatory conditions that cause chronic diarrhea frequently lead to rectal prolapse. Other conditions that may directly or indirectly cause rectal prolapse include foreign bodies in the gastrointestinal tract, ingested toxins and tumors.
If the prolapsed tissue is limited to the most superficial layers of the rectum (where only part of the bowel wall protrudes), no specific treatment may be required. Such limited prolapses may even self-correct. In such cases, the veterinarian will focus on eliminating the underlying cause of the diarrhea and straining. If the underlying disease is an infection, appropriate antimicrobial drugs will be given.
In more difficult cases, the veterinarian may manually reposition the bowel and place a temporary suture to maintain the correction until it heals. If the prolapse is full thickness (involves the entire thickness of the bowel wall), it will not reposition itself and will need emergency surgical measures to put it back in place so as to avoid tissue strangulation and death. Sometimes damaged tissue must be amputated. Although little prolapses may self-correct, they usually get worse.
I strongly encourage you to have your veterinarian examine and treat your ferret. The condition may progress to a full-thickness protrusion that requires emergency surgery. If not addressed, a simple problem could become complicated and life threatening.
09/22/00 Return to top
Are preputial discharges normal in dogs?
Category: Canine
My 14-week old puppy has been having green pus on his sheath after urinating. What is this and is it serious?
Normally dogs should not have preputial discharges.
Normally dogs should have no preputial discharge. Sometimes dogs may have a small amount of yellow-white smegma that can accumulate around the opening of the prepuce.
Since your puppy has a discharge with green pus, he probably has balanoposthitis. This is an inflammatory condition of the glans penis and prepuce. Usually balanoposthitis is caused by bacterial infection, although fungal and herpesvirus infections occasionally may cause it as well. Some dogs develop balanoposthitis when foreign bodies such as grass awns become trapped under the prepuce.
Mild cases are typically not very significant clinically. However, you should take your dog to the veterinarian for an examination. He or she may take samples of the discharge for a cytology analysis and culture and sensitivity test. These laboratory studies will identify infecting organisms, if present, and what antimicrobial drugs are effective against them.
Your veterinarian may also perform a urinalysis and other tests to rule out urinary tract disorders and other problems. The doctor will advise you of the appropriate treatment if treatment is needed.
09/21/00Return to top
What causes “pimples” on a dog’s abdomen?
Category: Canine
My dog has pus pockets or pimples all over his belly. He is very itchy and is constantly scratching. Could you tell me what causes this and how I can treat it?
Pyoderma may present as "pimples."
What you are describing could be a pyoderma, which is a bacterial infection of the skin. The most common bacteria are Staphylococcus intermedius. This condition may present as "pimples" with white-heads or red bumps all over the skin. A pyoderma can be the result of several things including skin parasites, endocrine diseases, a poor immune system, fungal infections and allergies.
Superficial pyodermas typically involve the dog’s abdomen and back. Deeper pyodermas often affect the dog’s chin, nose, legs and feet, as well as other areas. It is not uncommon for dogs to develop pyodermas, which can cause them to be itchy and uncomfortable. Pyodermas, and other conditions with similar signs and symptoms, have to be diagnosed and treated by a veterinarian.
Pyodermas are not contagious to people.
I recommend taking your dog to your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Treatment typically involves prescribing oral antibiotics for two or more weeks, depending on the severity of the infection.
07/29/03Return to top
What is the treatment for Bordetella infection?
Category: Canine
If my dog contracts Bordetella, is there a treatment for it that my veterinarian can prescribe?
Antibiotics are prescribed.
Bordetella is a common bacterial pathogen of the respiratory system of dogs. It is less common in cats. There are numerous antibiotic treatments that have demonstrated effectiveness against these bacteria. Some strains are resistant to treatment. A bacterial culture of respiratory secretions, with antibiotic susceptibility pattern, may be required to identify the most effective treatment.
If the bacterial infection is contributing to kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis), cough suppressants and bronchodilators may be prescribed, along with antibiotics. Most patients can be successfully treated as outpatients; this is encouraged because kennel cough is very contagious. The typical course is 10 to 14 days for uncomplicated cases of kennel cough. The course may be limited by restricting activity. For more information you may want to read about kennel cough in the VetCentric encyclopedia.
Your veterinarian can offer you many treatment options, if necessary.
08/01/00 Return to top
Is melena normal?
Category: Canine
Our dog has been treated with Rimadyl for severe hip dysplasia. He is currently on antibiotics and Rimadyl (which I have discontinued). I've noticed his stool is like black tar. Is this normal?
No, it suggests upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Black, tarry stool often results when blood is lost and digested in the upper gastrointestinal tract. This is called melena; it is abnormal. The finding of melena means that there is some source of bleeding in the stomach or small intestines.
The medication that your dog was taking may have caused it. Rimadyl is a great anti-inflammatory medication. Unfortunately, any anti-inflammatory medication can cause gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding. It is good that you have discontinued this medication, but I would recommend that you contact your veterinarian about the melena as soon as possible.
There are bland diets and medications that your veterinarian may recommend that you use until your dog's symptoms resolve. He should be monitored closely since gastrointestinal ulcers can become serious if not properly addressed.
Your veterinarian will need to do a complete physical examination, and possibly some bloodwork and a fecal flotation examination to further evaluate your dog’s status.
08/01/00 Return to top
What symptoms appear in a cat with antifreeze intoxication?
Category: Feline
My cat may have ingested antifreeze. My husband was working on a vehicle and said what the cat drank was mostly water, but may have had some antifreeze in it. Should I call our veterinarian? What symptoms should I look for if there is a problem?
Signs and symptoms similar to drunkenness.
Antifreeze intoxication is very serious. Immediate actions are necessary to save patients that have ingested even small amounts of ethylene glycol, the most common ingredient in most types of antifreeze. As little as one tablespoon of dilute ethylene glycol can kill an average size cat. The chemical has a specific toxicity for the kidneys; death from irreversible kidney failure is common.
Contact your veterinarian immediately. If the cat is not yet showing some signs of illness, it is unlikely that the cat ingested any meaningful amount of antifreeze, but your veterinarian should assess this.
The signs of acute or immediate exposure to ethylene glycol include signs that resemble drunkenness, including incoordination, depression, seizures, coma, or death. Vomiting, nausea, increased thirst and urination are also seen in the first 30 minutes to one hour. From 12 to 24 hours after consumption the animal may have rapid heart rate and rapid breathing. In the cat, signs progress rapidly: within 12 to 24 hours after ingestion, cats will have severe irreversible kidney failure, with limited or absent urine production. The cats will be severely depressed, with vomiting and diarrhea.
The prognosis for patients that are seen after the onset of kidney failure is grave. Dialysis and kidney transplantation would offer the best hope for such patients.
Your veterinarian should be able to detect whether the cat has kidney failure or other organ dysfunction with blood tests. The known antidotes are most helpful if administered to cats within the first three hours after ingestion. Unfortunately, pet owners rarely can act within this time frame.
08/01/00 Return to top
What supplement will help a dog develop a shiny coat?
Category: Canine
What can I put in my dog’s food to give him a nice shiny coat? I don't want to change his food. I just want to add something. Can I use vegetable oil, olive oil, or raw eggs?
An omega fatty acid supplement may help.
In order to have a nice shiny coat it is necessary to provide your pet with a good quality diet. In general, supplementation is not necessary; however, in some cases adding an omega fatty acid supplement can do great things for a dry, brittle hair coat. These nutritional measures take a minimum of 10 to 12 weeks to start making a difference in the appearance of the skin and even longer for the hair coat.
You should speak to your veterinarian about which product he or she recommends and how much you should give your dog. It is best to use a fatty acid supplement that is formulated to enhance coat appearance rather than just adding oil to the food. These commercial products provide a balance of fatty acids that are optimized to use a minimum amount for the maximum effect. Excessive oil in the diet can lead to loose stools and obesity.
Additionally, you should not give raw eggs to your dog. Raw eggs may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can cause a serious infection. Additionally, egg whites also contain a protein called avidin that binds biotin, part of the B vitamin complex; feeding raw eggs may result in a vitamin B deficiency that could be detrimental to your dog’s health.
08/21/00 Return to top
How do I introduce my dog to a new dog?
Category: Canine
We are adopting a one-year old retriever mix from the shelter. What is the best way of introducing him to our other two-year old female dog?
Introduce them gradually.
Because both dogs are young, this transition will be a little less stressful for you than if the dogs were older. Introducing pets that are not too set in their ways usually makes things easier. It also helps that one dog is female; female dogs tend to be more accepting of outsiders than a more dominant male.
It is helpful to try to introduce them very gradually. It would be a good idea if the dogs could meet for the first time on neutral territory. Try taking them to a park or some location that is not on either one of their "turfs." Keep the dogs on leashes and allow them to sniff each other but do not give them the opportunity to fight. This interaction will give you a starting point. If there is aggression on neutral territory it may be quite difficult to move them in together.
It will be very important for you to reinforce the dominance hierarchy once established. This means that when one dog establishes itself as the top dog and wants attention you must give it to the dominant dog and rebuff the other if it comes seeking attention. This may be hard for you to do as most people feel for the "underdog." Unfortunately, if you push the dominant dog away to pet the dog of lower status, it can cause the top dog to punish the other pet.
In most cases there will not be an altercation, but be prepared for one anyway. Keep your pets on leashes even in the house. DO NOT GET BETWEEN FIGHTING DOGS. Even if your pets love you, when they are fighting they may bite you. Use their attached leashes to separate them.
Remember that gradual introduction is the key. Do not expect them to be best friends right away; tolerance is a good thing too.
There is a very good article on VetCentric.com about introducing a new cat to the household. Most of the principles outlined there can be applied to dogs as well. Also, talk to your veterinarian. If there are problems, the doctor is your best source of information. If the problems are significant he or she may also recommend that a short course of medication is necessary to facilitate the transition.
08/21/00 Return to top
Can giving glucosamine for long periods be harmful to dogs?
Category: Canine
We have been giving our 10-year old Lab-mix glucosamine daily and she is much more energetic and playful, but I'm concerned because this non-prescription medication is a human medication. Could it be harmful?
Generally it is safe.
Glucosamine is a nutraceutical product that has gained a lot of popularity. This compound is available in many forms, some of which are specifically designed for veterinary use. Primarily, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are used to help diminish the symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, which is the "wear and tear" type of arthritis. Although the usefulness of purified glycosaminoglycan has been documented, the efficacy of the oral combination product of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate is in dispute. Additionally, the formulations for these products are not standardized, making them even more difficult to evaluate.
The chondroitin portion of the supplement increases the elasticity of cartilage and may have anti-inflammatory properties. Both glucosamine and chondroitin are required for proteoglycan synthesis. These compounds assist in the joint's recovery from the constant trauma of the osteoarthritis. Theoretically, they are given as a source of cartilage matrix precursors and to stimulate regeneration. Unfortunately, the exact mechanism of action is poorly understood. Controlled studies for the effectiveness of these compounds are lacking. In general, these products are safe and have only a minimal chance of producing toxicity or allergic reactions. Minor gastrointestinal effects of soft stool and flatulence are usually overcome by reducing he dose.
If you find that these nutraceuticals are helping to improve your dog’s quality of life, discuss their use with your veterinarian to make sure that they are the best choice for her.
For more information about arthritis in your pet you may want to read "Arthritis Cure Eludes Animals and Owners" on our Web site at VetCentric.com.
08/21/00Return to top
What can cause vomiting and the presence of sugar in the urine?
Category: Canine
Our nine-year old Springer spaniel is very active, but is vomiting greenish/yellow bile. Our veterinarian said sugar was found in his urine, but the bloodwork is not back yet. What conditions could this possibly be?
Diabetes mellitus, pancreatitis and kidney problems may cause these symptoms.
The presence of sugar in the urine most often reflects high levels of blood sugar; sugar spills over into the urine because the renal, or kidney, threshold has been exceeded. In other situations the level of blood sugar is normal, but the kidneys are leaky to sugar, which can be a congenital problem in the Basenji breed and others. Spillage of sugar from the kidneys can also be an acquired defect associated with toxic or inflammatory kidney problems. Blood tests should discriminate between a problem of high blood sugar and a kidney disorder.
Elevated levels of blood sugar (hyperglycemia) combined with the presence of sugar in the urine (glucosuria) and clinical signs of increased thirst and urination are the criteria for diabetes mellitus, or sugar diabetes. Transient signs of diabetes can be associated with pancreatitis, an inflammatory disease that causes abdominal pain, vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, and sometimes jaundice. The pancreatic inflammation may affect the insulin-secreting cells of the pancreas, reducing blood levels of insulin, and permitting blood sugar levels to rise.
Vomiting is also seen with complicated diabetes when metabolic acids called ketones accumulate. Most ketotic diabetic patients are depressed and sick, unlike the dog you have described. Ketones are detectable in the urine, as well. Pyelonephritis, or kidney infection, could cause sugar in the urine and vomiting, without causing elevations of blood sugar.
There are numerous causes of vomiting that may be independent of any pancreatic or kidney problem. Please refer to the encyclopedia articles on "Vomiting, Canine," "Pancreatitis, Canine," and "Diabetes Mellitus, Canine" for more information. Your veterinarian should have a better understanding of your pet's condition, having ruled in or ruled out some major problems with laboratory testing.
08/21/00 Return to top
My dog was recently spayed. Will she still need to get her anal sacs expressed?
Category: Canine
My dog Pita recently had a double-mastectomy to remove two benign lumps and was spayed at the same time. She is healing very nicely. My question is: When she was in heat before, her scent sacs would get backed up and had to be expressed. Will that still be the case now that she has been spayed?
Spaying won't cure an anal sac problem.
The fact that Pita’s "scent sacs," or anal sacs, filled up and had to be expressed was probably not because she was in heat. We don't completely understand at this time why anal sacs become overfilled and sometimes go on to develop into an impaction or abscess.
The anal sacs are located at approximately four and eight o'clock within the anus. These sacs act as reservoirs for the secretions produced by the anal glands. Some dogs, especially small breed dogs, do tend to have problems with their anal sacs accumulating secretions from these glands, becoming inflamed, impacted, and sometimes even forming an abscess.
However, the accumulation of fluids may be due to allergies or periodic soft stools or diarrhea, which Pita may have been experiencing when she entered her heat cycle. Now that she is spayed, you should have her sacs checked by your veterinarian in about three months to see if they are full. If she starts to scoot or lick the anal area, have her checked by your veterinarian sooner.
It may very well be that your dog’s anal sacs will still have to be expressed every few months, depending on how quickly they fill up. Your veterinarian will be able to guide you on how often the sacs will need to be expressed.
08/01/00 Return to top
What is feline acne and how is it treated?
Category: Feline
My cat’s chin is covered with what looks like small, black, crusty scabs. The veterinarian diagnosed this as "chin acne." What is this and how is it treated? The doctor prescribed antibiotics and told us to clean her chin with soap and water daily. It has been three weeks, and we are still scrubbing her chin; however, it doesn't appear to be getting any better. Infected, plugged hair follicles may be treated with topical and systemic medication.
Feline acne is an idiopathic (cause not known) disorder of the hair follicles that is rarely curable. Poor grooming, a tendency for excessive oil production, stress and other factors have all been suggested as playing a role in its development; however, the cause is not clearly established. The main, full-blown lesion is a plugged hair follicle that becomes infected with bacteria and may drain serous fluid or pus. The condition may be so severe that the lips become swollen and the chin scarred.
Other conditions may mimic feline acne in the early, follicular-plugging stage. These include ringworm, mange mites or a superficial yeast infection, which can be verified or ruled out by culture, skin scraping, and cytology.
A few simple blackheads, or comedones, may be unsightly, but not a problem for the cat.
Treatment is generally reserved for patients with clinical signs of infection, drainage or swelling.
Topical therapy is indicated in all treatment regimens, with an effort to gently dislodge or dissolve the material plugging the follicles. Warm water soaks and antiseborrheic shampoos are frequently recommended for daily or twice weekly use.
There are topical agents available through veterinarians, such as benzoyl peroxide and Retin-A that may be indicated in some cases, but they may be too irritating for some cats. Antibiotics and fatty acid supplements may also be required. Other systemic medications, beyond antibiotics and fatty acid supplements, are reserved for severe, refractory cases. Consultation with a veterinary dermatologist is advisable in such cases.
Your veterinarian should have the opportunity to re-examine your cat if the condition is not resolved. He or she can assess whether more aggressive treatment is indicated or if more antibiotics are required.
10/13/03 Return to top
Should a dog with a history of mammary cancer be given estrogen?
Category: Canine
My female dog is five years old and she has had several wetting accidents in her sleep. My veterinarian has prescribed stilbestrol or DES (synthetic estrogen), but I am concerned because she had a malignant mammary tumor removed shortly after I had her spayed. Can this hormone increase the risk of another tumor, and should I give it to her? Veterinary oncologists recommend against this.
There are few, if any, formal studies that have been done to evaluate the effects of supplemental estrogen (synthetic or natural) in dogs affected with mammary gland cancer. Mammary tumors are one of the most common types of cancer in female dogs. Sex hormones such as estrogen do play a role in the development of mammary cancer in the female dog. This is why it is so important to spay a female dog before her first heat cycle. This almost eliminates her chance of ever developing breast cancer.
Almost half of female dogs with breast cancer are estrogen-receptor positive, and approximately 40 percent are estrogen- and progesterone-receptor positive. When estrogen binds to estrogen receptors on a malignant tumor, cancer growth is promoted. Women with breast cancer are put on drugs that are anti-estrogen, which means that the medication competes with the estrogen for the estrogen receptor sites. This helps block these receptors, preventing the estrogen from binding. Affected women are not allowed to take estrogen supplementation.
Because of this, veterinary oncologists do not recommend estrogen supplementation with drugs such as stilbestrol or DES in dogs affected with breast cancer. There are other medications such as phenylpropanolamine that can be used on a daily basis to help prevent urinary incontinence. Phenylpropanolamine is neither a hormone nor a steroid. It acts to help tighten up the urethral sphincter to prevent urine leaking.
08/07/00 Return to top
Can a nerve injury in a dog be repaired?
Category: Canine
My dog fell from a moving car. Although there were no fractures, apparently the nerve that makes one of his front legs work is damaged. Our veterinarian told me that we have to give him time to see if he can regain his normal limb function. Is there a way to repair my dog’s nerve damage?
Presently, there is no way to repair damaged nerves.
We are not sure which nerves were damaged, but this can be a big problem in dogs that experience a traumatic injury.
The degree of nerve damage and the amount of connective tissue that remains around the nerve will dictate how much the nerve will regenerate, if at all. If the nerve is completely severed, then the chances of it regenerating are poor.
Talk to your veterinarian about physical therapy such as swimming, limb manipulation, and massage to help decrease or slow down the muscle atrophy and tendon shortening, or contracture, which occurs with nerve injury and disuse of the limb.
You need to watch for self-mutilation, where your dog may begin to chew at his injured leg; this may occur weeks to months after injury. Abnormal sensation or lack of sensation causes this behavior. If your dog begins to chew on the injured leg, take him to your veterinarian immediately, as this can lead to complications such as severe infection.
If your dog is not able to move his leg or use it after two to three months, then your veterinarian may talk to you about removing the leg.
Unfortunately, there is no way to repair nerve damage or speed up the regeneration of the damaged nerves at this time. Physical therapy is often helpful, but there is no surgical or medical treatment for dogs to repair damaged nerves yet.
The prognosis for your dog depends on the degree of nerve damage that exists and how many nerves are affected. Give your dog some time as your veterinarian instructed and protect the leg from any trauma or self-mutilation. Keep your veterinarian well informed about your dog’s progress and be patient.
05/02/02 Return to top
Will spaying help lower the risk of breast cancer in dogs?
Category: Canine
My dog was not spayed until she was six years old. We did not breed her. We have been informed that she is very susceptible to breast cancer and advised to have her checked once a year. If she had been spayed at a younger age, would her chances of developing breast cancer be lower?
Yes, if performed before the first heat cycle.
Unfortunately, there are many dog owners who do not know that spaying a dog before her first heat cycle will decrease her chances of mammary cancer by over 98 percent. This is one reason that veterinarians recommend that female dogs be spayed before they are six months old. Your pet is no more susceptible to mammary cancer than any other female dog that is spayed after her second heat cycle.
Do not regret what wasn't previously done but rather feel good that you have prevented your dog from going through some other potentially dangerous conditions by having her spayed at this time. Pyometra, or infection of the uterus, can be a fatal illness that is common in older, unspayed females.
As far as watching for breast cancer, the best thing you can do is to check your dog’s mammary glands for lumps monthly. Female dogs have left and right mammary chains that run from the front leg area all the way back to the inguinal area. You can start at each nipple and feel her skin and subcutaneous tissue around each one. Many owners are able to find a lump on their own if they are in the habit of petting their dog's belly area.
If you find a lump, you should set up an appointment with your veterinarian to have it evaluated and removed if necessary. Mammary growths have about a 50 percent chance of being malignant and spreading to other parts of the body. The earlier you address a growth, the less chance it has to spread if it happens to be of the malignant type. Time frames for this vary but usually they don't occur until the primary cancer has been present for a certain period of time.
Your veterinarian will also check your dog thoroughly at each yearly exam. However, do not hesitate to have her seen sooner than that if you find a growth. You have taken a big step in preventing problems by having her spayed and being aware that you should watch for abnormal growths.
02/24/03 Return to top
How much should we be feeding our dog Bingo?
Category: Canine
Use a managed feeding technique. Most dogs like Bingo love to eat and willingly take anything that you offer them, even if they are already full. Unfortunately, this quickly can lead to obesity problems. And with a breed of dog such as a Boston terrier that is already predisposed to respiratory problems, you do not want the added complication of obesity. Other problems with obesity include serious effects related to the cardiac and skeletal systems.
In order to keep Bingo healthy and active, a managed feeding technique and exercise are recommended. There are, however, many options for how Bingo gets fed. Twice a day feedings are a good idea so that he doesn't get hungry later in the day.
This should be done by figuring out his total daily allowance of his diet and then dividing it in half for each meal. Most dog foods have a guide on the side of the bag that uses the dog's weight and age to calculate the amount you should feed. We recommend starting at the lower end of the range for most dogs and then making adjustments as needed.
Also be careful about giving Bingo too many snacks. Most dog treats are extremely high in fat, yet have very little nutritional value. Less than 10 percent of his daily food intake should come from snacks.
Generally, giving your dog something to eat every time the family is having a meal leads to begging. They do look adorable when doing this but some guests and family members may find it annoying. If you do decide to give Bingo a treat, it should be put into his food bowl away from the dinner table. We do not recommend feeding dogs people food, but a dog biscuit would be fine.
How can you tell if Bingo is getting the appropriate amount of food? The best way to do this it to monitor Bingo's body condition. All dogs should have a tucked up "waist" when you look at them from the side. If you are looking down at him, you should be able to see a much thinner abdomen as compared to the chest. Now use your hands to feel for Bingo's ribs. If you have to push through a layer of fatty tissue to feel a rib, then Bingo is too heavy.
If he is too thin, you will be able to see easily each individual rib. It is very unlikely that he would be too thin. As animal owners we want to shower our companions with love; this commonly means we overfeed them. I'm sure that Bingo has other activities that he loves as much as eating. If you feel you need to give Bingo s ome form of extra attention, try playing a game, going for a walk, or having a pleasant grooming session. You and your wife can have a well-fed, well-loved dog that will be much healthier in the long run.
08/01/00 Return to top
I think my dog has cataracts. Can this condition be treated?
Category: Canine
I think that my dog has cataracts. When I look at her eyes, there is a grayish-blue haze. Will she lose her eyesight from this, and can cataracts be removed from her eyes?
Surgical treatment is available.
You should have a veterinarian perform a complete physical exam and an ophthalmology exam to evaluate her eyes. Your veterinarian will determine if she has cataracts, or a condition that occurs normally in older dogs called nuclear sclerosis.
Nuclear sclerosis, a change in the lens of each eye associated with aging, can look like a cataract to the non-veterinarian. However, it is a different condition. With nuclear sclerosis, both eyes have a hazy, grayish-blue color, especially in certain lights. This occurs generally in dogs over six years of age. It results from an increase in the density and size of the lens as the dog ages. This condition does not cause a dog to go blind. No treatment is necessary.
A cataract is an opacity, or whitening, of the lens of the eye. Depending on the stage of the cataract, this can cause partial or complete blindness in the affected eye. There are many different reasons why dogs develop cataracts, including medical conditions such as diabetes mellitus or previous trauma.
If your veterinarian diagnoses cataracts, then surgery can be performed to remove the affected lens. Surgery is best performed as soon as possible, and should be done by a veterinary ophthalmologist. An ophthalmologist is specially trained in performing eye surgery and can address post-operative complications that may arise, as well as provide optimal after-care. Generally, one eye is surgically corrected at a time.
If you think that your dog may have cataracts or a problem with its vision, then see your veterinarian immediately.
08/01/00 Return to top
How can I stop my cat from defecating outside the litter box?
Category: Feline
My cat suddenly has begun defecating on my bedroom carpet instead of in the litter box. What can I do to stop this behavior?
A problem with many causes. Unfortunately, this is one of the most common behavioral complaints of cat owners.
There are several factors that may contribute to cats defecating inappropriately. Environmental or social stress, personal preferences or changes in personal preferences, or medical problems may cause this behavior.
Although most feline elimination disorders are behavioral, to rule out a medical problem, your veterinarian will need to do a complete physical examination, urinalysis, and a fecal exam. If your cat is middle-aged or older, then the doctor may also opt to perform bloodwork including a complete blood count and a chemistry panel. Cats with feline lower urinary tract disease or cystitis may begin to defecate and/or urinate outside the litter box.
It can be difficult to determine whether cats begin defecating outside of the box because they have developed a disliking to a certain litter, or to a location, as opposed to simply preferring to defecate in the new location.
The development of a disliking or aversion to a particular substrate or litter is much more likely than avoidance of a particular location. Cats can develop an aversion to anything from clumpable litter, to an odor, to certain noises, to extraneous smells, and many other things.
If possible, offer the affected cat a wide variety of different types of cat litter in a combination of different depths. You could try changing the litter and leaving the box in the same location. In addition, providing a second litter box in the area that has been chosen as the unwanted place to defecate may be helpful. Some cats require separate litter boxes for urination and defecation. Generally, if there are elimination problems in the house, each cat should have at least one box. And there should be at least one box per floor in multi-floored homes.
Cats typically do not develop aversions to locations, but they may if the litter box is associated with the presence of any undesirable individual such as another cat, a dog, or a child. Perhaps your cat had a bad experience while at the previous litter box. Another pet could have disturbed your cat while it was defecating, causing it to have a negative association with the box. Also, if the litter box is close to a television, alarm clock, or other noisy object, your cat may have developed an aversion to defecating there.
It is a good idea to place another litter box in a new location where your cat has begun defecating. You can use the same litter and the same box, or buy another box. If your pet begins to use the new box, then gradually move the box an inch each day until it is in a more desirable spot. If you move the litter box too quickly, however, the cat may relapse. In addition, if another pet begins tormenting the affected cat while it defecates in this new place, then the problem may begin again.
Something else to consider is the personality of your cat. Shy cats may need a covered litter box. Another idea is to place your cat’s food and water in the bedroom to see if this deters him; most pets will not defecate in the same area that they eat.
You could also try a scat mat. These are sold at many pet stores, and they send a mild shock when an animal stands on them. Yet, although a scat mat may deter defecation in the bedroom, your cat may very well pick another inappropriate place.
If your cat is medically normal, and other behavioral techniques have been exhausted, your veterinarian may recommend medical treatment with anti-anxiety medications. Consult your veterinarian about this problem for more information and suggestions. Veterinary behavioral specialists may offer additional insights.
08/01/00 Return to top
Can surgery significantly help a damaged cruciate ligament?
Category: Canine
My German shepherd has an old cruciate ligament injury, with arthritis apparent on the x-rays. I must decide whether to have it operated on or not. He is only two and one-half years old, but I hesitate to put him through the surgery if pain and restricted activity are likely to result. Will surgery make a significant improvement in his quality of life? What should we do?
Yes, the progression of disabling arthritis may be slowed or halted.
Your dog will do better in the long run if you have the surgery performed. The arthritis that is present is irreversible; but with surgery, the progression can be slowed or halted. Additionally, substantial cartilage damage will continue to occur until the knee is properly stabilized. This damage could result in marked worsening of your dog's lameness.
Many veterinarians have witnessed substantial recovery and improved function in dogs after surgery, especially when significant arthritis is present. There are several surgical approaches to treating a damaged cruciate ligament; in many veterinarians’ opinions, the TPLOâ procedure is more likely to afford the best result.
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy® (TPLO) is a technique that utilizes a different approach to treating cranial cruciate ligament injury than other procedures. Rather than trying to oppose the forces acting on the cranial cruciate ligament in the normal knee joint, a TPLO® eliminates these forces—and thus the need for a cranial cruciate ligament—by changing the anatomy of the knee joint. This procedure requires that a bone cut be made in the tibia that is then stabilized with a specialized bone plate. Only veterinarians that have been trained and licensed by the developer of the technique are permitted to perform this surgery. In general, dogs weighing less than 40 pounds are too small for this procedure.
Should you decide not to pursue surgery, then you must realize that your dog may not be able to function beyond a relatively sedentary lifestyle. Good luck with your decision.
For additional information, there is an excellent article in our VetCentric Encyclopedia regarding cruciate ligament disease.
09/09/03 Return to top
What causes “stud tail” in a cat?
Category: Feline
Our cats have developed yellow oily, waxy patches on their backs at the base of their tails. The veterinarian called it "stud tail." What could be causing this?
Oil from the sebaceous glands.
Cats and dogs have an area at the base of their tails that is dense with sebaceous glands that produce a waxy or oily yellowish secretion. When these secretions accumulate the hair may become matted and the skin may crust and scale. The area may become secondarily infected with bacteria in rare cases. The condition is termed feline tail gland hyperplasia, but is commonly referred to as "stud tail" because the condition is prevalent in uncastrated males.
The condition is not highly pathologic, and usually is more of a cosmetic nuisance to owners and cats. The fur in the involved area should be clipped and washed with medicated antiseborrheic shampoo, which may contain benzoyl peroxide or sulfur-salicylic acid; your veterinarian can provide you with these shampoos. Hopefully the cats will resume grooming the cleaned area and that should prevent recurrence. If your cats do not keep the area well groomed, then you should gently use a comb to treat the fur and to disperse the oils that accumulate.
Systemic medications are rarely needed to deal with the problem.
08/22/03 Return to top
How long will my puppy continue waking up at night?
Category: Canine
Until it learns not to.
Owners commonly ask this question during the first two weeks after bringing a puppy into their home. At first, a puppy’s crying or whining is largely due to loneliness, as well as the drastic change in its environment. Remember that the puppy is used to being with its mother and other siblings. It needs about two weeks to bond with you and the family and to establish a routine, so sleeping through the night may not come easily to them. In addition, young puppies are not physically able to hold their urine for long periods of time. Until the size of its bladder increases and its muscle tone improves, you will need to let your puppy outside to eliminate at least once in the middle of the night. A puppy four months of age or older should be a ble to hold its urine overnight.
When trying to quiet a whining puppy, a common mistake that new owners make is trying to comfort the animal by talking sweetly or petting it for a few minutes before returning the pet to its crate. This practice teaches the puppy that every time it cries, it will get the attention that it loves. Most puppies will stop whining in 10 to 15 minutes if you give them no response. A few difficult nights of this "tough love" will teach your puppy that bedtime is sleep time.
If the puppy wakes in the middle of the night and becomes fussy, it is probably indicating a need to go to the bathroom. This should be an all-business-and-no-play trip, in order to avoid the puppy waking you up in the future solely for attention. Calmly praise your puppy for doing its bathroom duties in the right place, but do not let it think that this is a time for play, or for lots of attention from you.
Some things that may help your puppy adjust to its new environment include a comfortable crate with padding, a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel or blanket, and a ticking clock or music near its crate. Some people choose to set up the crate next to their own bed, so that the puppy feels more secure.
08/01/00 Return to top
Why does my indoor pet need vaccinations?
Category: Canine,Feline
Why does my pet need vaccinations? He rarely goes outside--and even then, only when I am with him.
There's always a risk of infection.
Although your pet may have a low risk of getting diseases from other animals, vaccinations are important because infection is always a possibility. Some viruses can linger in the environment for some time, long after the animals that deposited them have passed. And some viruses, such as parvo, are severe enough to cause death. We feel that we cannot emphasize enough the importance of having your pet regularly vaccinated against rabies. Rabies is a fatal virus—not only in many pets, but also in other mammals, including humans. Consequently, rabies vaccination is required by law in all of the United States. Rabid animals act very strangely, lose their fear of humans and other animals, and could approach you and your pet even in the middle of the day. Further, bats are known to get inside houses accidentally, and could spread rabies indoors. If your pet is not current on its rabies shot, and it bites or nips a human being, your regional health department could require the euthanasia to test your pet for rabies. The cost of a rabies vaccination is very cheap, especially when compared with the heartache that could be encountered if it is not done.
The decision to vaccinate against other contagious diseases is one that each owner has to make on a case-by-case basis. Because not all pets have the same risk of exposure to certain diseases, not all pets need the same vaccinations. Certain vaccines, such as that for feline leukemia, are recommended only if a cat is spending time outdoors, where it could be involved in a fight. Your veterinarian will make a recommendation depending on your pet’s individual situation. But as a general rule, it is much easier and safer to prevent contagious illnesses than it is to treat them.
08/01/00 Return to top
I’ve just brought home a new puppy – what do I need to do?
Category: Canine
I just took home a new puppy. What are the first steps I need to take as her owner?
Make an appointment with a veterinarian
Congratulations to you and your family! Welcome to the world of pet ownership. If this is your first dog, you will soon come to know the special bond that forms between human and animal. Studies have been done about the many health benefits of the human-animal bond. As long as you carefully foster the relationship, no one will love and respect you as much as a dog.
Many people joke that they’ll try raising a dog before having children. But owning a dog is like having a child that remains in childhood for its entire life. Puppies need constant observation, just like toddlers. As adult dogs, they may need less intense observation. Nevertheless, they still can be quite destructive or suffer dangerous problems if left unsupervised.
We recommend that you schedule a puppy check-up with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Most shelters, breeders, and pet stores require a post-purchase exam within 72 hours of taking home your new puppy. Take any records of your puppy’s deworming and vaccinations. It is also a good idea to write down a list of questions that you may have for your veterinarian.
The veterinarian will examine the puppy to determine if it seems healthy and free of disease. After reviewing past records, a schedule for deworming and future vaccinations will be determined. Puppies need to receive multiple vaccinations until they reach the age of 19 to 20 weeks. You should limit your puppy’s exposure to unknown dogs as well as canine excrement until the pet has completed its vaccination series.
As a newcomer to a human household, your puppy probably is going through many changes that can be very scary and stressful. It is helpful for you to plan for your new companion’s homecoming ahead of time.
A list some of things you will need are:
- Food that the puppy has been eating. You can switch the diet over to a brand that you prefer, but you should do this slowly, over a two week period, to prevent stomach upset and diarrhea.
- A crate or carrier to be used as a sleeping area and for housetraining, once the puppy is used to it.
- Blankets or a lambswool pad for the crate.
- A baby gate or multiple gates.
- Newspaper or piddle pads.
- Food and water bowls – preferably metal.
- Antichew agents that can be applied to furniture, houseplants, and other household objects.
- Appropriate chew toys.
- A wide, flat collar that is fitted properly. You will go through a number of these as the puppy grows.
- A four-foot leash.
- Appropriate grooming tools – a slicker brush, a comb, cotton balls for ear cleaning, and other essentials.
We hope that this is information will help you get started. Keep learning all that you can about your puppy so that you will be prepared to care for it throughout its life.
08/01/00 Return to top
How can I remove ticks from my dog and cat without harming the pets?
Category: Canine,Feline
Apply tweezers to the tick's head and pull gently.
Animals easily pick up ticks in their fur from the outdoors. Ticks will attach themselves to the skin for several days, until they are full of blood sucked from their host. During this period, they can transmit serious diseases to cats and dogs and should be removed as soon as they are detected on the animal. Some diseases can be prevented by early tick removal, since the transfer of the infectious agent can take up to 72 hours.
Ticks should be removed with tweezers applied to the portion of the tick’s head closest to the skin. Pull gently and with steady pressure. Examine the tick to be sure the entire head was removed. Afterwards, the bite wound should be cleaned with antibacterial soap and rinsed well.
Several options are currently available to prevent ticks from attaching themselves to your pet, and to kill the ones that do. Frontline® is a safe and effective topical flea and tick control product that is applied to the animal’s skin once a month. A Preventic® tick collar, although not a flea deterrent, is an effective method of preventing and killing ticks for up to three months. There are many shampoos, dips, and sprays that can be used to kill ticks in certain animals. However, kittens, puppies, and some adult cats can be sensitive to these products. Consult your veterinarian about which products are appropriate for your pets.
08/01/00Return to top
I think my pet may have fleas. How can I check?
Category: Canine,Feline
I am pretty sure that my pet has a flea problem, but I can't tell for certain. Any suggestions?
A flea is a tiny, laterally flat and wingless insect that subsists on the blood of its host. Fleas have long legs that enable them to jump tremendous distances and they can quickly crawl through your animal’s fur. Check your cat or dog frequently for fleas by brushing them over while they are standing over a white sheet or towel; flea feces—small, black flecks of digested blood—will fall off easily, indicating the presence of fleas. A flea comb with very fine teeth is helpful for removing flea debris and may remove some adult fleas if enough are present.
Most fleas congregate over the rump and tail area of the pet. If evidence of fleas is noted, the animal should also be checked for tapeworm segments, which appear as cream-colored, rice-like segments stuck in the fur around the anus or in the feces. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations concerning flea control and prevention.
For more information about preventing and treating flea infestation, see the article Flea Control in our encyclopedia.
01/05/01 Return to top
What is the prognosis for oral cancer in a cat?
Category: Feline
My 10-year old cat has what looks like a pea-sized tumor under his tongue. If it is found to be cancerous, what is the prognosis for a complete recovery? Can you provide more information on this topic? Thank you.
It depends on the type of cancer.
The presence of a mass or lump in any animal is potentially serious and should be evaluated by a veterinarian to determine if it is benign or cancerous.
In older cats, especially those over 10 years old, squamous cell carcinoma is the most common oral tumor, accounting for 60 to 70 percent of all oral tumors. Younger cats can also get this type of cancer. Most of these tumors occur at the base of the tongue, although they may also occur on the lip, gums, palate, and tonsils, as well as in the maxillary and mandibular (jaw) bones. These bones are frequently involved. When oral squamous cell carcinoma metastasizes (spreads), it does so via the regional lymph nodes near the jaw. However, regional and distant spread of this type of oral cancer is apparently rare unless the tumor arises in the tongue or tonsil. It is speculated that the extensive grooming habits of cats possibly expose them to carcinogens on the hair coat, thereby predisposing the tongue to the development of this type of cancer. Response to treatment and prognosis for recovery is poor.
Two other relatively common types of oral cancer in cats are fibrosarcoma and epulis (dental tumor). Although fibrosarcoma is the second most frequent oral cancer in cats, it constitutes less than one in five oral cancers. Fibrosarcoma usually appears on the gums and palate. This cancer may affect adult cats of any age, although older cats are more likely to develop it. Fibrosarcoma, like squamous cell carcinoma, rarely spreads to regional lymph nodes, but unlike the latter, it occasionally metastasizes to tissues distant from the oral cavity. Prognosis is generally fair.
Epulides are cancers of the gingiva, or gums, that arise from the periodontal ligament. Some types may invade bone, displaying malignant behavior. These dental tumors occur much less frequently than fibrosarcoma, and do not tend to spread. With treatment most dental tumors of cats carry an excellent prognosis. Other cancerous tumors of the oral cavity exist, but are seen even less frequently
You need to have your veterinarian examine your cat and do a work-up on the tumor. Your cat’s health status may be assessed with a thorough physical examination, bloodwork, and a urinalysis. Radiographs of the primary tumor are advised and x-rays of the chest recommended to look for visible evidence of cancer. Regional lymph nodes are sampled concurrently to look for metastatic (spreading) cancer cells. The veterinarian typically will take a fine-needle aspirate, scraping, or a biopsy of the mass and send the tissue to a pathologist to identify the tumor and to provide information about its prognosis. This will help your veterinarian determine what therapeutic steps are appropriate.
Depending on the pathology report, your veterinarian may refer you to a specialist in surgery, oncology, or radiation oncology.
Treatment of oral cancers varies according to the type of tumor, how extensive it is, and the health status of the patient. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Treatment is very successful in the epulides and considerably less so in fibrosarcoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Please consult with your veterinarian promptly.
06/06/03 Return to top
What happens when a dog injures its radial nerve?
Category: Canine
My dog was hit by a car recently and injured his right front leg. He is able to stand up straight, but he limps and his right paw seems to roll under his leg. He has been licking constantly at his paw. What could be wrong with him?
Some degree of front limb dysfunction may occur.
It sounds like your dog may have damaged the radial nerve. I recommend that you have your dog evaluated by your veterinarian. The extent of the injury and its long term effects will depend on where along the course of the nerve the injury occurred and how much damage the nerve sustained.
If your dog is able to stand and extend his elbow normally on the affected side, the nerve injury would probably be below the motor branches of the radial nerve that innervate the triceps muscle, an important muscle used in standing. Sometimes the brachial plexus, a nerve network from which the radial and other nerves emerge to supply the limb, is also damaged. If this had occurred to your dog, he would not be able to support his weight adequately while walking, resulting in a limp.
The rolling of the paw you describe might signal damage to the part of the radial nerve that innervates the extensor muscles to the paw; the resulting weakness of t he extensors causes the rolling you describe. Loss of sensation to the paw may cause pets to traumatize themselves while walking, or even to chew their toes.
Your veterinarian may want to x-ray the limb to look for a fracture, particularly one that could pinch or damage the radial nerve. The doctor will determine the extent of the injury and discuss necessary treatment. Nerve regeneration may take more than three months. If normal or near-normal function cannot be restored, surgical fusion of the carpal bones and digits in the affected paw and/or flexor tendon transfer to rebalance gait may be necessary. If he mutilates the foot, then amputation may ultimately be necessary.
I think that you should keep the dog isolated for now until it can be more completely evaluated. Please seek veterinary care for your dog promptly.
10/20/00Return to top
What is lupus in dogs and how is it treated?
Category: Canine
Lupus is an immune system disorder treated with corticosteroids.
Dogs can develop lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), an immune-mediated disorder that affects multiple body systems. The cause is unknown, but genetic, environmental and, possibly, infectious processes may be involved. Either sex of dog may be affected in equal numbers. Although relatively rare in dogs, SLE occurs more frequently in dogs than in cats. Cats, unlike dogs, only rarely develop immune-mediated disorders.
In SLE, the affected dog’s immune system produces antibodies against the dog’s own tissues, reacting to them as if they were foreign invaders. This in turn stimulates an inflammatory reaction. The basic pathology of SLE revolves around the effects of this inflammation on the affected body systems, which produce the disease’s clinical signs. SLE may affect the joints, skin, muscles, kidneys, blood and blood vessels, heart, and other organs.
Signs of SLE will vary among cases, and may occur acutely or slowly and off and on over weeks or months. Many affected dogs will have shifting leg lameness, a consequence of polyarthritis (multiply and symmetrically affected joints). The joints and muscles may also be swollen and tender to the touch. The skin is commonly involved. Ulcers, a red rash, dermatitis, crusts or scales, hair loss, and occasionally boils may appear. Protein spillage in the urine, a sign of kidney involvement, and hemolytic anemia, decreased red and white blood cell counts and platelet count may be discovered with laboratory tests. Other, minor, signs of SLE may include inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis) and linings of the heart and lungs (pericarditis and pleuritis, respectively). Affected dogs may have a fever, loss of appetite, seizures or a change in behavior.
Diagnosis of lupus is reached with a positive combination of clinical signs and laboratory diagnostic tests. SLE may have some signs in common with certain infectious diseases, neoplasms (new growths or tumors) and other conditions. Your veterinarian may order appropriate tests to rule out these other conditions. Radiographs (x-rays) of affected joints will allow differential diagnosis between lupus-associated joint disease and other forms of arthritis. A complete blood count (CBC) will reveal anemia and other blood cell disorders. A blood chemistry panel and urinalysis may demonstrate nonspecific changes consistent with SLE.
Several tests for SLE are available, including the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test and the lupus erythematosus (LE) cell preparation. However, test results are highly interpretative, and must be evaluated cautiously. Dogs with elevated levels of circulating lupus-associated antibodies (ANA titers) do not always have lupus; other conditions may result in elevated ANA titers as well. Additionally, some dogs with lupus will not have an elevated ANA titer. Unfortunately, there is no single, definitive test for SLE. Tissue biopsies may display changes characteristic of immune-mediated disease.
Treatment involves suppressing the immune system and the resultant tissue inflammation. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are the mainstay of treatment. Other immunosuppressive agents may be required to achieve a clinical remission; life-long treatment is expected. Organ system dysfunction resulting from SLE should be addressed as well. The prognosis is considered guarded. Progressive organ dysfunction and failure indicate a poor prognosis.
Veterinary internists are frequently consulted for diagnostics and treatment options of canine patients that may have systemic lupus erythematosus.
05/07/01Return to top
Do ferrets get along with dogs?
Category: Canine,Exotic
Ferrets are very social animals by nature. They have a relatively low level of fear and will approach many situations with enthusiasm. Ferrets are probably more likely to put themselves in a dangerous situation with an aggressive dog than to be unfriendly towards another animal.
As with any small pet, you should always be present during encounters between your dog and ferret. Ferrets do have teeth and know how to use them, but they are no match for a dog. Serious injuries could occur accidentally if they are allowed to play too roughly.
If your dog and ferret do not get along, you always will need to keep them separated. Be sure to give each one independent playtime.
07/25/00 Return to top
My dog was vaccinated as a puppy. Does he need ongoing vaccinations?
Category: Canine
I made sure my dog got all of the necessary booster shots when he was a puppy. Do I still need to take him in for vaccinations now that he's older?
Dogs need yearly protection.
Every puppy that was properly vaccinated needs a yearly vaccine booster for DHLP-P, and, depending on the state laws, a rabies vaccine either yearly or every two to three years. DHLP-P is a multi vaccine that combines protection from several viruses into one.
Most vaccines need to be repeated on a yearly basis because the immunity that the vaccine stimulates declines over time. A vaccine usually contains altered viral antigen that stimulates the dog’s immune system to produce antibodies against the virus. The viral antigen is altered in the vaccine so that it does not cause the actual disease, but it stimulates the immune system to develop defenses against the virus in case of exposure to the disease at a later time.
Some typical ongoing vaccinations for dogs include the following:
- DA2LP-P vaccine- this contains a combination of Distemper, Adenovirus- type 2 that causes Infectious Canine Hepatitis (liver disease), Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.
- Rabies vaccine - every year to three years depending on the state laws. Lyme vaccine - usually given yearly, this vaccine is recommended for dogs at high risk of tick exposure. Deer ticks or "hard ticks" can transmit bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi, which cause Lyme disease. There is some controversy as to the use and effectiveness of this vaccine. Consult with your veterinarian about vaccinating your dog for Lyme disease.
- Coronavirus - this is given to dogs at risk of developing coronavirus and is used when owners want all possible protection against viral diarrhea.
- Bordetella vaccine - This vaccine is either given intranasally (drops into the nose) or as an injection under the skin. The intranasal form has been found to provide better immunity. The vaccine helps protect against infectious tracheobronchitis, or kennel cough.
Consult with your veterinarian about your dog’s risk and need for vaccines such as the Lyme, coronavirus, and Bordetella vaccines. The DA2LP-P and Rabies vaccines need to be repeated in all dogs and usually are not optional.
Although some breeders opt to give vaccines themselves, veterinarians do not advocate unlicensed individuals vaccinating animals. Nevertheless, if you are giving vaccines, please be sure that you know how to do so properly. If vaccines are given accidentally into a blood vessel, there can be a severe shock reaction and the dog can die. Also, if vaccines are left out on the shipping dock, not properly refrigerated, or not given correctly, the dog will be inadequately protected from potentially life threatening diseases.
Remember that vaccines are not the entire reason that an animal needs to go the veterinarian annually. A physical exam is critical, because this allows the veterinarian to detect any problems or diseases before it is too late to do anything about them.
08/01/00 Return to top
How can I keep flies away from my outdoor dog?
Category: Canine
Flies won’t leave my outdoor dog alone. He has sores and scabs on his ears - what should I do?
Take him indoors.
All animals that spend time outdoors are susceptible to fly bites--especially those that are confined to a small area because they can’t run away. Some animals are even more attractive to certain fly types than others. Stable flies have mouth parts that can tear open the flesh and suck blood from the wound. This causes a lot of irritation to the area and it can sometimes become infected with repeated fly strike attacks. Flies most commonly attack the ears and face of dogs. The fly bites are usually on the tips or folded part of the ear in breeds with floppy ears. The bite wounds are often red, crusty, and may ooze blood. They can be very itchy and painful.
The best prevention is to house the dog indoors where the flies can not get to it. If this is not possible, then it is important to use fly repellant cream or lotion that can be applied to the ears to prevent the attacks. There are also various flea sprays available that may be beneficial. Your veterinarian will be able to recommend a fly prevention product that will help prevent the fly strike.
If there are areas around the animal that are attracting the flies such as straw piles, manure droppings, trash, or anything else, then removing the source of the flies is important. The use of safe and approved pesticides may also be beneficial –consult your veterinarian.
08/01/00 Return to top
My dog is always scooting around the floor on his rear. What could be his problem?
Category: Canine
My dog has been acting strangely. He's always scooting around the floor on his rear. Why is he doing this? Should I be concerned?
Anal sac disease.
Anal sac impaction is a common reason that dogs scoot. Full anal sacs cause irritation and pressure around the anus. Dogs scoot in an attempt to relieve the sensations. Your veterinarian can check your dog's anal sacs and express them, hence eliminating this as a potential problem.
Your dog should be checked for tapeworms and other intestinal parasites, as these may also cause dogs to scoot. Tapeworms commonly appear as "white rice"segments around the dog’s anus or in the stool. If you have seen this, tell your veterinarian.
Other potential causes of scooting can include sensitivity to diet, flea allergy, or skin infection.
Consult with your veterinarian for a specific diagnosis. For more information about anal sacs, please read our encyclopedia article, "Anal Sac Disease."
06/06/03Return to top
I found a lump on my dog. Is this a cause for concern?
Category: Canine
I found a lump on my dog that is about the size of a large marble. It is located under the skin, just above the knee, and does not seem to give him discomfort or pain. Is there a cause for concern?
Always get a vet to check out a lump.
A lump may indicate cancer, but many such growths can be harmless. You mentioned that it is not painful or bothersome, but several different types of dangerous growths can have those characteristics.
Any time a lump is seen or felt on an animal, it deserves to be tested to determine whether it is cancerous or just a benign, non-cancerous lump. It is critical that you take your pet to your veterinarian for examination. He or she may wish to perform a fine-needle aspirate on the mass, or other appropriate tests. A fine-needle aspirate is performed quickly, without the need for sedation in most patients.
A fine-needle aspirate involves taking a small needle and placing it into the mass. A syringe is used to aspirate the cells of the growth into the needle. These cells are then put onto a slide, stained, and evaluated under a microscope by the veterinarian or by a veterinary pathologist. The study of these stained cells is called cytology. This tiny sample of cells often provides important information about the growth’s nature. The test can separate benign fatty growths called lipomas from other serious problems that may require treatment.
When the fine-needle aspirate does not provide a diagnosis, the veterinarian often recommends a biopsy. A biopsy involves taking a large piece of tissue from the growth, or surgically removing the growth. This usually requires sedation or anesthesia. The tissue must be processed and analyzed by a pathologist, which takes several days.
Any mass or growth on a dog, cat, or other animal needs to be assessed. A fine-needle aspirate is simple to do, inexpensive, and may provide a rapid diagnosis.
11/19/03Return to top
Why does my puppy hiccup?
Category: Canine
My puppy sure seems to hiccup a lot these days. Is this normal?
A temporary spasm of the diaphragm.
It is completely normal for a puppy to have hiccups off and on throughout the day. Hiccups sometimes start after eating a meal, but can occur at any time and last for up to several minutes. A hiccup is defined as a non-controllable spasmodic contraction of the diaphragm, causing a beginning inspiration of air that is suddenly stopped by closure of the glottis. The diaphragm is a muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. It enables the lungs to bring in air during inspiration. When the diaphragm contracts, the air is quickly drawn in, but the glottis, a part of the "voice box," suddenly cuts it off.
Puppy hiccups will come and go. Eventually puppies grow out of them.
11/19/03 Return to top
Why is chocolate bad for dogs?
Category: Canine
I've heard chocolate is really dangerous for dogs to eat. Why is this?
A toxic dessert.
Chocolate contains methylxanthine alkaloids in the form of theobromine and caffeine, that cause constriction of arteries, increased heart rate, and central nervous system stimulation. These effects can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, and increased urinations. More advanced symptoms of toxicity include excitability, increased respirations and heartbeat, stiffness, seizures and exaggerated reflexes.
Certain types of chocolate contain higher amounts of methylxanthines, baking chocolate containing the highest and white chocolate containing the least. Dogs freely ingest toxic amounts of chocolate if it is left accessible. A potentially lethal dose in a 16 pound. dog is only one pound of milk chocolate. People stop eating chocolate before ingesting toxic levels.
Cardiac failure, seizures, coma, and death can result if the cho |
