Educational Articles
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Respiratory disease in ferrets is common. Several infectious/contagious conditions like distemper and influenza can be life threatening for ferrets. Like dogs and cats, ferrets can develop heartworm disease, even indoors. Lymphoma, a cancerous condition of lymph organs can cause disease in the chest cavity.
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Like humans, dogs have two sets of teeth in their lifetime. There are 28 deciduous teeth, also known as their primary, baby, milk, or puppy teeth, and 42 permanent teeth, also known as their adult teeth.
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Cryptorchidism is the failure of one or both testicles to descend into the scrotum. Some purebred cats are more at risk, but it can affect any cat and is believed to be an inherited trait. Diagnosis can usually be made by palpation but sometimes requires blood testing or abdominal ultrasound if the cat’s history is unknown. Risks of retained testicles include testicular cancer, spermatic cord torsion, and the development of undesirable male characteristics, so neutering is strongly recommended. Surgery is generally routine, and recovery is similar to any abdominal surgery.
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Cryptorchidism is the failure of one or both testicles to descend into the scrotum. Toy breeds may be more at risk, but it can affect any breed of dog and is believed to be an inherited trait. Diagnosis can usually be made by palpation but sometimes requires blood testing or an abdominal ultrasound if the dog’s history is unknown. Risks of retained testicles include testicular cancer, spermatic cord torsion, and the development of undesirable male characteristics, so neutering is strongly recommended. Surgery is generally routine, and recovery is similar to any abdominal surgery.
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Retinal detachment can cause sudden blindness or vision changes. It is generally secondary to an underlying condition like high blood pressure. Diagnostics and treatment are discussed. Prognosis is guarded to good depending on the underlying cause.
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Some dogs have a condition known as paroxysmal respiration, more commonly called reverse sneezing. With this condition, the dog rapidly pulls air into the nose, whereas in a regular sneeze, the air is rapidly pushed out through the nose. The dog makes a snorting sound and seems to be trying to inhale while sneezing.
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Rifampin is commonly used off label to treat infections in horses, and occasionally in dogs and cats. It is usually given by mouth in the form of a capsule or compounded liquid. The most common side effects are vomiting, diarrhea, or reduced appetite. Liver dysfunction is possible. A change in the color of urine, tears, and saliva to a red/orange color is expected but may stain fabrics. Use with caution in pets that have pre-existing liver disease, are pregnant, are elderly, or are lactating. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
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Ringworm infections in cats are caused by a fungus, not a worm. They can be easily recognized, though definitive testing by fungal culture is recommended. Ringworm is highly contagious and can be spread between animals and from animals to people. The clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and risks are explained in this handout.
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Ringworm infections in cats are caused by a fungus, not a worm. They can be easily recognized, though definitive testing by fungal culture is recommended. Ringworm is highly contagious and can be spread between animals and from animals to people. The clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and risks are explained in this handout.
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Anesthesia-free dentistry is commonly offered at pet stores and grooming facilities. It is more limited than veterinary dentistry, and often a higher-stress option with more potential for injury from sharp instruments. Dental cleanings should only be performed while your pet is under anesthesia. Your veterinarian will customize your pet's anesthetic plan for your pet's overall health.
