Conjunctivitis in dogs and cats

Dogs and cats alike can be affected by conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the inner eyelids and white part of the eyes that sometimes accompanies a respiratory infection or eye injury. It can also be brought on by airborne irritants, dry eye, or a more serious illness such as canine distemper or feline herpesvirus. Symptoms include goopy or bloodshot eyes, swollen eyelids, and rubbing of the eyes. Treatment ranges from eye drops and ointments to surgery in rare cases. Overview Conjunctivitis is the medical term used to describe inflammation of the conjunctiva — the soft tissues that line…

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Heatstroke in Dog and Cats

Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition suffered when a pet is unable to lower its body temperature. Cells in the body become damaged when the core body temperature reaches anywhere between 41°C and 43°C. Heatstroke is most common in dogs but can also occur in cats and can happen whenever a pet gets severely overheated. Among the most common causes of heatstroke in dogs happens when dogs are left in parked cars. One test performed on a partly cloudy, 34°C day found that cars can heat up to 49°C in just 15 minutes! But even cooler days can be deadly. In…

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Intestinal Parasites in Dogs and Cats

Signs of parasites can vary depending on the type of parasite involved, the number of worms and the age and health status of the pet. Signs can vary from none to any of the following: constipation, diarrhea, flatulence (passing gas), lethargy, pale gums, poor growth rate in puppies and kittens, a potbellied appearance, scooting on the rear end, vomiting, weakness and weight loss. What parasites commonly infect dogs and cats? Hookworms These small worms attach to the intestinal walls and ingest blood. Heavy infections can cause severe blood loss, anemia and pale gums. Pets can pick this parasite up from…

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