Pet Health

Dental disorders in dogs are normally caused by genetics, diet, and age. The symptoms of these disorders depend on what type of disorder is present. Some dental disorders only result in a crooked or unique smile, and other dental disorders result in pain and possible infections.

Gastritis in cats is a type of condition that occurs when the stomach becomes inflamed, irritated, and infected. As a result of gastritis, the cat’s stomach is unable to digest food properly. Gastritis can either occur in cats in an acute, or chronic, form.

Helicobacter infection in cats is a type of condition that is caused by a genus of spiral shaped bacterial named Helicobacter. These bacteria have the unique ability to survive in the inhospitable environments of the stomach and lower GI tract of certain mammals.

Hookworm infections are diagnosed frequently in puppies and dogs, but kittens and cats are not as susceptible to hookworm infections. However if cats or kittens do become infected with these intestinal parasites, prompt treatment is needed.

Cats, like people, can periodically suffer from constipation. The condition is often caused by diet or medications, but sometimes constipation can be a result of an underlying condition that your cat may be suffering from.

The pancreas is a very important gland located in the abdomen. It has two main functions: one function is hormone production (e.g., insulin) and the other is to produce and release enzymes for digestion via a connection with the duodenum, the segment of intestine closest to the stomach.

Hyperthyroidism occurs in cats when the thyroid gland begins to produce too much thyroid hormones. The increase in the production of these thyroid hormones is due either to an increase in the size of the thyroid or a type of thyroid cancer.

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which an animal has low levels of functioning thyroid hormone resulting in decreased metabolic rates. Hypothyroidism produces a number of symptoms that can lead to serious illness if left unattended.

Cushing's Disease is an umbrella term that refers to a number of conditions that occur when an animal is exposed to too much steroid hormone (called glucocorticoids).

The development of cataracts in cats is normally a sign of another underlying medical condition that is causing the cataract to appear; in other cases the cataract can be the result of an injury to the eye frequently caused as a result of fighting with another cat. If you notice any of the following symptoms of cataracts in your cat’s eyes, or any changes to your cat’s eyes at all, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.