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Dogs + Medical Conditions

  • Ulcerative keratitis is a kind of inflammation that occurs in the cornea of the eye with a corneal ulcer. Some breeds seem to develop them more commonly, particularly breeds with short muzzles and prominent eyes like pugs and Boston terriers. There are many potential causes of ulcerative keratitis, including trauma, infection, and abnormal tear production. Antibiotic ointment or drops will be prescribed, and it is important to prevent additional trauma to the cornea. Superficial corneal ulcers typically heal within 5 to 7 days.

  • This handout outlines corneal ulcers in dogs, a painful eye condition often resulting from trauma. Other causes, clinical signs, diagnostic testing, and treatment options are explained.

  • Crananidin® is a cranberry extract supplement that is used to support urinary tract health in dogs. It contains proanthocyanidins (PACs), which help stop certain bacteria that may contribute to bladder infections from sticking to the inner lining of the bladder wall.

  • Cryptosporidiosis is a gastrointestinal infection in humans and animals caused by a microscopic, one-celled parasitic organism called Cryptosporidium. It can contaminate food, soil, or any other surface. Signs such as diarrhea and weight loss may only be seen in immunosuppressed patients, including puppies.

  • Cushing's disease is a condition in which the adrenal glands overproduce certain hormones. The most common cause of Cushing's disease is a pituitary gland tumor. Cushing's disease may also be the result of a benign or malignant tumor of the adrenal gland itself, or may be caused from the excessive administration of an oral or injectable steroid. Clinical signs, treatment, and prognosis are discussed.

  • Cushing's disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, is the overproduction of cortisol hormone by a dog's body. The clinical signs of Cushing's disease are similar, regardless of the underlying cause of the disease. However, it is essential to identify the type of Cushing's disease as the treatment and prognosis differ slightly depending upon the form of the disease.

  • Treatment for Cushing's disease using mitotane involves two phases: initiating phase and maintenance phase. Monitoring your dog's food and water intake is very important. This handout provides detailed treatment instructions for dogs prescribed mitotane. Follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully.

  • Lymphoma is a type of cancer that is common in dogs. When it occurs in the skin, it is called cutaneous lymphoma, but this form is quite rare. Canine cutaneous lymphoma can present various clinical signs, including itching, alopecia (hair loss), scaly skin, skin redness, loss of skin color, ulcers, nodules, pustules, and plaques.

  • Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are microscopic bacteria found in fresh water, brackish water, and salt water. All animals, including dogs, cats, horses, livestock, mammals, fish, birds, and humans are susceptible to the toxins produced by cyanobacteria.

  • Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes of the body caused by inadequate oxygen levels. Cyanosis is an emergency, and the root cause may be life-threatening and may or may not be reversible. Once back home, homecare instructions must be followed carefully.