Having a pet is guaranteed to bring you endless amounts of joy. However, there is no escaping the fact that our furry friends can get sick too. The best way in which to prepare yourself for this possibility is to learn all about the common diseases and conditions that your dog or cat could succumb to. It is important to educate yourself regarding the signs to look out for so that you can take swift action when necessary. Here is what you need to know.
Allergies
Allergies occur frequently in pets, with dogs being the most commonly affected. Often, the culprit is environmental, but there are indeed a number of dogs and cats that present with food allergies too. Symptoms of an allergy include red, inflamed patches of skin, consistent scratching, digestive upsets like vomiting, diarrhea, and regurgitation, as well as flatulence. Some allergies can be treated with dietary changes, but in certain cases, hydrocortisone products will be required to bring relief.
Urinary tract disease
This is arguably the most common disease in cats and includes feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), which is categorized by significant inflammation in the bladder. While it is unknown what causes urinary tract disease in animals, stress is believed to play a significant role. It can strike at any time and overweight animals are known to be at a greater risk of developing urinary related problems. A loss of bladder control and straining when urinating are both signs that it is time to head to a reliable vet for help, like heartandpaw.com.
Dental disease
Unless you are in the habit of brushing your dog or cat’s teeth, dental disease is almost certain to crop up as your pet ages. Unfortunately, it can lead to more than just bad breath. Dental disease can affect your pet’s overall health and requires special attention. Check for signs of the problem by looking at your pet’s gums. If they are bright red and inflamed, particularly near the gum line, there is a good chance that they are indeed suffering from dental disease.
Arthritis
Arthritis causes stiffness and pain in the joints and is most common in senior dogs and cats. In fact, almost all older pets will suffer from the condition in at least once joint by the time they turn seven. Larger breed dogs are more likely to suffer from it too. Luckily, the signs are easy to recognize. Keep an eye out for limping or your pet having trouble sitting or standing. Being more reluctant to exercise is another sign that your pet is likely experiencing some pain. Visit your vet for advice. The great news is that most types of arthritis can be effectively controlled with the right medication and lifestyle changes.
Vomiting and diarrhea
Digestive upsets result in many a trip to the vet. While they usually resolve on their own, they can be a sign that something more serious is at play. Pay close attention to your pet and head to your vet if the vomiting and diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours. If the symptoms are accompanied by signs of lethargy, make your way to the vet immediately.
Ultimately, it is always wise to seek the help of an animal expert if you are ever concerned about your furry friend’s health. It is better to be safe than sorry, after all!
2018 ·