Library
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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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Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is an inherited condition that causes multiple cysts (fluid pockets) in the kidneys. Persian cats and breeds with Persian bloodlines are most commonly affected. The clinical signs, diagnosis, genetic testing, and treatment options are explained in this handout.
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This handout explains post-vaccination sarcomas (also called injection-site sarcomas) in cats. They are a rare consequence of vaccine injections (and other drugs or materials) that can cause a very aggressive form of cancer at the site of the injection. The incidence of this condition, as well as precautions you and your veterinarian can take, are highlighted.
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Feline poxvirus is a relative of the human smallpox virus seen mainly in Asia, Europe, and England. It causes skin lesions around the head, neck, and forelimbs, such as ulcerations, scabs, or abscesses. Cats often recover on their own with no further symptoms unless they are immunocompromised. There is no specific treatment or vaccine. Antibiotics may be used to control secondary infections. The virus can be transmitted to humans but can be significantly reduced by basic hygiene precautions.
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Preparing your cat to travel to the vet is one of the most important investments you can make during the lifespan of your cat. Cats should visit the veterinary hospital at least once yearly. The smoother the experience goes, the least amount of stress both you and your cat will experience.
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Winter cold weather poses several risks for our pets. This article outlines some of the key risks and how to avoid them, to keep your pet safe year-round.
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Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a group of degenerative diseases that affect photoreceptor cells in the eyes. With this disease, the cells deteriorate over time, eventually leading to blindness. There are two main forms of PRA recognized in cats, an early-onset, inherited form called retinal dysplasia, and a late-onset form. PRA is an inherited condition in Abyssinian and Persian cats. When a cat develops PRA, it should be removed from the breeding program, along with its parents and siblings. As PRA progresses, your cat's vision gradually worsens until she becomes completely blind. There is currently no effective treatment for PRA.
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Tumors of the prostate are relatively uncommon in dogs and extremely rare in cats. Clinical signs include bloody urine, or straining to urinate or defecate. Metastasis to the pelvic bone and/or lumbar spine is likely. Diagnosis and treatment options are discussed. Prognosis is considered poor.
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Prostatic disease in cats is uncommon and, as a result, relatively little is known about these conditions. Enlargement of the prostate is a common sign with most prostatic diseases and may be noted by your veterinarian on a rectal exam. Other diagnostic tests may be required to determine the cause of your cat's condition.
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Enteropathy means any disease of the intestinal system. Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) is not a specific disease but a group of diseases that cause the loss of proteins from the bloodstream into the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Symptoms include diarrhea, weight loss, and fluid buildup in areas of the body. Treatment and prognosis are determined by the underlying cause.