Library
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Cats have evolved to hide signs of illness and pain. This means that in the early stages of illness, often the only thing that a cat owner may notice is that the cat has become quiet and withdrawn. This article outlines some signs of illness you can look for. In general, any sudden change should alert you that your cat needs veterinary attention. If your cat does not seem right, make an appointment see your veterinarian for an examination as soon as possible.
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Asthma or bronchitis is a fairly common condition affecting cats. It occurs as a result of the airway being hypersensitive to certain stimuli, resulting in airway constriction, excess mucus production, and air trapping. Diagnostics include a physical exam, blood tests, x-rays, bronchoscopy, and bronchial or tracheal lavage. As asthma cannot be cured, treatment is aimed at the management of the disease using a combination of steroids and bronchodilators. Adjunct treatments include modifying the environment to reduce exposure to the noxious stimulus, hypoallergenic diet trials, and acupuncture.
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A wellness examination includes a complete physical examination and discussion about your cat's daily habits and nutrition. Depending on your cat's age, these visits may be recommended annually or more frequently. Lab work such as blood tests, urinalysis, and fecal tests are often recommended to screen for underlying disease. Blood pressure assessment and radiographs of your cat's chest, abdomen, or joints may also be suggested. Prepare for your cat's wellness examination by knowing what food she eats and how much, any supplements or medications they are taking and if anyone in your household has noticed changes or concerns.
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Behavioral problems can develop for many reasons. Genetics and the environment both contribute to behavior. When problematic behaviors arise, particularly if they develop suddenly or occur in older pets, it is important to screen for underlying medical conditions. The behavioral history provides valuable information to assist in determining the root cause for any behavioral concern.
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Testing for microalbuminuria has some use in detecting early kidney disease but can also be an indicator of multiple other diseases. A positive test gives your veterinarian suspicion to carry out further testing; however, it can have false positives if not used properly. It is a simple test that can give you a jump on treating a condition to help your cat live a happier life for longer.
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Breed-specific diets are a category of commercial pet feeds available for dogs and cats that are formulated to accommodate various breed predispositions. This article provides a concept overview of these diets, including what they are and what benefits they may serve. Specific examples are reviewed in brief to illustrate case scenarios for common canine and feline breeds.
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This handout summarizes breeding and queening (giving birth) in cats and the normal estrus (heat cycle). Pregnancy care and labor care are outlined, along with signs to watch for to determine if your cat is experiencing delivery complications.
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Your older cat requires more care and attention to make sure they have the best quality of life. If they have certain medical conditions, that will factor into what they can do and how often they may need to see your family veterinarian. It's important to spend time with your cat to keep their stress low and monitor for changes.
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Several changes occur in the aging cat; they often progress slowly, so it is essential to have your senior cat examined by a veterinarian twice yearly. This is important so that if your cat develops a disease, it can be recognized and treated as early as possible, thereby maintaining her quality of life for as long as possible.
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Dexmedetomidine is a sedative/tranquilizer used primarily in cats and dogs as a pre-medication injection for anesthesia or for chemical restraint. It is also used orally in dogs for short-term anxiety management. The most common side effect is a low heart rate. Dexmedetomidine should not be used in patients with severe heart liver or kidney disease. It should be used cautiously in young, old, or weak animals. Consult your veterinary office immediately if you suspect a negative reaction or overdose.