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Medical Conditions

  • Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive, degenerative disease of the joints. This handout explains and outlines the use of disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs) in treating dogs with OA. DMOADs slow or change how OA progresses. This handout explains the common DMOADs and how they are used in OA treatment.

  • Otitis interna is inflammation of the inner ear, most often caused by infection. Signs depend on the severity and extent of infection. They may include drooling from the side of the mouth, difficulty eating, inability to blink, and drooping eyelids, lips, and nostrils on the affected side.

  • Otitis interna is inflammation of the inner ear, most often caused by infection. Signs depend on the severity and extent of infection. They may include reluctance to eat, head tilt, alteration in balance, and reduced hearing on the affected side.

  • Bee stings and bites from spiders, fleas, and ticks are the most common causes of insect bite reactions in pets. Insect bites can cause mild to severe allergic reactions in many dogs. Fortunately, most reactions are minor and have an excellent prognosis for recovery. Treatment typically involves antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs.

  • Contenido en español actualizado.
    Translated from the original English article Congestive Heart Failure in Cats

  • Contenido en español actualizado.
    Translated from the original English article Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs

  • Detemir insulin is an injectable medication used in cats and dogs. It is used to lower blood sugar level and for long term maintenance therapy of diabetes mellitus. This medication is used “off label” or “extra-label”. Monitor closely for signs of low blood sugar.

  • Interdigital cysts are a painful condition of swellings between the toes. They are commonly allergic in origin; however, many cases can be multifactorial. Diagnostic testing and treatments are recommended. Prognosis is generally good if the underlying disease can be well managed.

  • An intussusception is a condition where part of the intestine slides into another part of the gastrointestinal tract. It causes signs similar to intestinal obstruction, including poor appetite and vomiting. Some cases can be life-threatening. Although some non-surgical techniques may correct the problem, most cases require surgery and intensive care for a good outcome.

  • A joint luxation is a dislocation or complete separation between the bones that normally move back and forth to form a joint. Subluxation refers to a partial separation of the joint. The most commonly subluxated joint in cats is the hip, although any joint can be affected. Your veterinarian may suspect a joint subluxation based on a history of trauma and physical examination findings such as pain and limping. A radiograph is necessary to definitively diagnose a joint subluxation. In many cases, the joint can be reduced or replaced to its original orientation by a procedure called a closed reduction, with a good prognosis if treated immediately. Surgery correction, however, may be needed.