Articles
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Cryptorchidism is the failure of one or both testicles to descend into the scrotum. Risks of retained testicles include testicular cancer, spermatic cord torsion, and the development of undesirable male characteristics, so neutering is strongly recommended.
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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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Ringworm infections in cats are caused by a fungus, not a worm. 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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A salivary mucocele is an accumulation of saliva that has leaked from an injured salivary gland or duct. Some mucoceles cause swelling of the face and neck, while others interfere with a dog's ability to swallow or breathe normally. Treatment typically requires surgical removal of the affected salivary gland(s).
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Seborrhea, also called seborrheic dermatitis, is a skin disorder in which the skin’s sebaceous glands produce an excessive amount of sebum, which is an oily, waxy substance that helps moisturize and protect the skin. The excess sebum causes scaly, flaky, itchy, and red skin. Seborrhea typically affects the back, face, and flanks and is worse in skin folds. Treatment or management depends on the cause.
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A seizure, also known as a convulsion or fit, is a temporary, involuntary disturbance of normal brain function. If abnormal brain activity occurs in the motor cortex of the brain, it may cause uncontrollable muscle activity. Epilepsy is a condition that involves repeated seizures that may occur alone or in clusters. These seizures may be infrequent and unpredictable or they may occur at regular intervals.
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Cats older than 10 years are considered senior, although this varies by breed and size. As cats enter their senior years, aging affects every organ system, so a few extra health, lifestyle, and veterinary care considerations become important.
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Septic arthritis occurs when bacteria or another infectious agent is introduced into one or more joints, leading to painful inflammation. The signs of septic arthritis include heat, swelling, and pain in one or more joints. There is typically decreased range of motion in the affected joint(s), as well as fever, lethargy, and lack of appetite. This handout discusses causes, signs, treatment, and follow-up care.
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Serotonin is a neurotransmitter produced by the body that regulates mood, sleep, body temperature, pain perception, blood vessel constriction, gastrointestinal function, and even blood clotting. An animal with serotonin syndrome experiences excessive effects of serotonin. This handout reviews the causes, diagnosis and treatment.
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Solar dermatitis is a skin disease caused by exposure to the sun. It occurs mainly in cats with white or pale patches of skin (non-pigmented areas). The most commonly affected areas are the ears, but the nose and the eyelids are sometimes involved.