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Surgical Conditions

  • Contenido en español actualizado.
    Translated from the original English article Bite Wounds in Dogs

  • The most common cause of hip dislocation is blunt force trauma (a fall or automobile injury). Hip dysplasia, a common developmental disorder in which the hip joint does not form properly, can also predispose a dog to hip dislocation. Most dogs with a hip dislocation will have severe hind limb lameness and may not be able to put any weight on the affected limb.

  • 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.

  • The iliopsoas is an important core muscle. Injury can occur due to trauma, but it is usually caused by chronic stress. Signs that your dog has a painful iliopsoas can include reduced performance (if a sporting dog), very subtle weight-shifting away from the affected side when standing, or an obvious limp. The initial treatment for acute iliopsoas injuries is activity restriction and pain control for 10-14 days. Rehabilitation therapy can also help.

  • Contenido en español actualizado.
    Translated from the original English article Fight Wound Infections in Cats

  • Cats love to investigate new sights, smells, and tastes. Unfortunately, this curiosity can lead them into trouble if they ingest something they shouldn't. While some will pass through the digestive tract, some foreign bodies can cause serious problems.

  • Foreign body obstruction is a common and potentially life-threatening condition in veterinary practice. Some foreign bodies pass through the intestinal tract, but if an obstruction occurs, surgical removal of the blocked object is the only treatment.

  • An inguinal hernia occurs when abdominal organs or tissues push through the inguinal ring (a natural opening in the abdominal wall near the pelvis) and bulge into the groin area. Inguinal hernias may be present at birth or develop later in life, possibly due to muscle weakness or trauma. This handout discusses signs, treatment, prognosis, and prevention.

  • 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.