Articles
-
Horner's syndrome is a common neurological disorder of the eye and facial muscles and can occur suddenly. Horner's syndrome is caused by dysfunction of the sympathetic nerves of the eyes and surrounding facial muscles. It may be due to an injury such as a bite wound or blunt trauma, a tumor, intervertebral disc disease, or middle or inner ear disease. If an underlying cause can be identified, treatments will target that issue; however, many cases spontaneously recover after some time.
-
Horner's syndrome is a common neurological disorder of the eye and facial muscles and can occur suddenly. Horner's syndrome is caused by dysfunction of the sympathetic nerves of the eyes and surrounding facial muscles. It may be due to an injury such as a bite wound or blunt trauma, a tumor, intervertebral disc disease, or middle or inner ear disease. If an underlying cause can be identified, treatments will target that issue; however, many cases spontaneously recover after some time.
-
Canine hot spots, also known as pyotraumatic dermatitis or acute moist dermatitis, are red, inflamed skin lesions that appear quickly, ooze, and may contain pus. They are usually caused by self-trauma when a dog scratches an itchy spot so vigorously that it creates an open wound. Treatment depends on the cause of the itching.
-
Cats are very good at hiding signs of pain, so cat owners need to be very observant to recognize behavior changes that indicate their cat needs help. Some of the most common behavior changes are associated with grooming and litter box habits. This handout describes these and other changes to watch for, as well as advice on how to support your aging cat.
-
Pain can be difficult to detect in older dogs. It is important for you to recognize subtle signs of pain in your dog as they age. This handout outlines some key behavioral changes that may indicate pain, and the importance of a veterinary pain management plan.
-
Hydrocephalus is an excess of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that has leaked inside the skull, leading to brain swelling. There are two main types of hydrocephalus in dogs: congenital and acquired. Small, miniature, toy, and brachycephalic breeds seem to be more affected. Signs, diagnosis, and treatment are outlined. Your veterinarian will discuss your pet's prognosis and treatment options based on its individual condition.
-
Hygromas are fluid-filled, non-painful swellings that develop suddenly over a bone that sticks out (bony prominence). They are the body's reaction to repetitive trauma and usually a result of laying too frequently on hard surfaces.
-
Hypercalcemia occurs when the level of calcium in the blood is higher than normal. High calcium levels may signal the presence of serious underlying diseases including kidney failure, adrenal gland failure, a parathyroid gland tumor, and some types of cancer. Cats may have idiopathic hypercalcemia, in which no cause can be identified. Signs and testing for hypercalcemia are discussed.
-
Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated levels of lipids (fats) in the bloodstream and can be due to several causes. Often times there are no clinical signs. Hyperlipidemia is confirmed using a 12-18 hours fasting sample. The pet's medical history and a search for an underlying cause is important for its treatment. If no underlying cause is found, your pet will need to start eating a low-fat, high-fiber diets, and may be started on the appropriate medications and supplements.
-
Hyperthyroidism is a common condition in older cats caused by excess thyroid hormone release resulting in an increased metabolic state. Hyperthyroidism can cause weight loss despite a good appetite, increased water consumption and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, cardiomyopathy, and hypertension. Diagnosis is made by testing blood thyroid hormone levels. Several successful treatment options exist, including medication, thyroidectomy, radioactive iodine, and a prescription diet. The prognosis with treatment is generally good.