Library
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Diabetes mellitus is an inability to regulate blood glucose caused by a loss of insulin production (Type I) or inadequate insulin supply or resistance (Type II). In cats, diabetes mellitus is most often type II. This type of diabetes usually results from obesity, creating insulin resistance. Cats with type II may be treated with oral medication, but some cats may ultimately require insulin injections. Diet is also important. This article discusses various treatments and monitoring regimens.
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Eosinophilic granuloma complex is a term used to describe three forms of skin lesions in cats: eosinophilic plaque, eosinophilic granuloma, and indolent ulcers. The lesions most commonly occur on the lip, but can also develop in the mouth or on other areas of the body.
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Demodicosis is a parasitic skin condition caused by Demodex mites. These microscopic mites can be found on the skin of all animals but, in some cases, they multiply to excessive levels and cause clinical signs. This handout discusses causes, signs, diagnosis, and treatment of demodicosis.
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Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) is a skin condition caused by an allergic reaction to the proteins in flea saliva. Cats usually experience only minor skin irritation in response to flea bites, but in cats with flea allergies, the antigens in flea saliva cause an intensely itchy response. Strict flea control is essential for treatment and prevention.
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Food allergies can be problematic for many cats, especially after years on the same diet. Clinical signs may manifest as gastrointestinal or skin problems. Animal proteins are the most common causes and strict avoidance is the best way to treat affected cats. An 8 to 12-week elimination diet trial on a special veterinary diet is the only definitive method to diagnose a food allergy and, in some cases, the veterinary diet may need to be continued long-term.
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Fractured teeth in cats can result from fights, car accidents, and chewing on hard objects. There are five classifications of tooth fractures and each needs treatment to avoid tooth sensitivity and pain. Because cats have thin enamel, even a small chip fracture can cause pain and needs veterinary care. Clinical signs include chewing on one side of the mouth, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, and facial swelling.
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This handout discusses what a heart murmur is, how it is detected, what recommended tests are advised to determine the underlying cause, and potential treatments or monitoring that should be undertaken when a murmur is detected in your cat.
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The most common cause of hip dislocation is blunt force trauma (a fall or automobile injury), but any traumatic injury to the hip area may cause a hip to dislocate. Most cats with a hip dislocation will have severe hind limb lameness and may not be able to put any weight on the affected limb.
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Immunotherapy (oral and injectable) is a treatment that involves using a pet’s own immune system to fight health conditions, such as certain allergies or certain types of cancer. Immunotherapy is specially formulated for each individual. It comes in injectable and oral forms.
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A joint luxation is a dislocation or complete separation between the bones that normally move back and forth to form a joint. Subluxation refers to a partial separation of the joint. The most commonly subluxated joint in cats is the hip, although any joint can be affected. Your veterinarian may suspect a joint subluxation based on a history of trauma and physical examination findings such as pain and limping. A radiograph is necessary to definitively diagnose a joint subluxation. In many cases, the joint can be reduced or replaced to its original orientation by a procedure called a closed reduction, with a good prognosis if treated immediately. Surgery correction, however, may be needed.