Library
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Mole and gopher baits are often flavored to attract pests, but cats and dogs may also ingest them if given the chance. The active ingredients in these baits can cause significant illness if enough is ingested. The most common active ingredients used in mole and gopher baits are zinc phosphide and bromethalin. There is no antidote for bromethalin poisoning, so decontamination within an appropriate time is key to a good outcome.
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Many mushrooms are toxic and can cause serious or even life-threatening illness. The severity of illness depends on the type and number of mushrooms ingested. Since mushrooms are difficult to identify, it is best to discourage your pet from eating any mushrooms growing in the wild. Prompt treatment is critical.
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Pericardial effusion refers to the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the sac surrounding the heart. Pericardial effusion can have a number of underlying causes, including inflammation, infection, cancer, and hereditary defects. Mild cases of pericardial effusion may be asymptomatic, but more significant fluid accumulations can interfere with the heart’s function and lead to severe effects such as sudden death. Treatment and prognosis is dependent upon the underlying cause of the condition.
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Bouquets and plants make wonderful gifts and decorations for our homes. However, many plant species can be hazardous to your cat's health. Be aware of the plants and flowers you are bringing into your home to prevent accidental poisonings. This handout outlines several common toxic plants.
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Pleural effusion is the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the chest cavity. Fluid accumulates in the pleural sac, not the lungs, so the lungs are essentially floating in a chest full of fluid. This fluid occupies space within the chest, so the lungs cannot expand as fully as they should. Treatment and prognosis vary depending on the underlying cause.
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Pyothorax occurs when pus or inflammatory fluids collect in the space around the lungs causing fever, anorexia, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. It is diagnosed through history, physical exam, radiographs, and thoracocentesis. Treatment with oral antibiotics is essential and may involve repeated thoracocentesis or the placement of a chest drain.
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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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Seizures and syncope are commonly confused with one another due to similarities in the appearance of these episodes. Both present with collapse but there are several details, explained in this handout, that can differentiate between them, which is important for determining treatment. The prognosis for each condition varies depending on the underlying causes.
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Shar-Pei recurrent fever syndrome is a hereditary condition that affects nearly one in four Shar-Pei dogs. Affected dogs experience recurrent episodes of fever and inflammation, with no identifiable underlying cause. Inflammatory cytokines released during fever episodes contribute to the production of a protein called amyloid which is then deposited in a variety of internal organs, resulting in a condition known as amyloidosis. Signs that may accompany the fever episodes include swelling of the hocks and muzzle, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed to reduce fever and alleviate discomfort. Colchicine is the drug of choice for the long-term treatment. Affected dogs can often be managed, but the condition will affect them for the remainder of their lives. If your dog is already showing signs of chronic kidney disease, your veterinarian will also develop a treatment plan to address the kidney disease.
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Smoke inhalation injuries are caused by a combination of heat and airborne toxins. Clinical signs of smoke inhalation vary, depending on the materials contained within the smoke and how much smoke the cat inhales. Common signs include coughing, shortness of breath, eye injuries, and burns. Neurologic signs can also occur, especially in cases of carbon monoxide inhalation. Treatment typically involves oxygen therapy and other supportive care measures.
