Library
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Conjunctivitis means inflammation of the conjunctiva. The most common signs of conjunctivitis include discharge from the eyes, squinting or excessive blinking, and redness or swelling around the eyes. Causes of conjunctivitis include bacterial and viral infections, allergies, breed-associated conditions, and tumors. Conjunctivitis can be secondary to other eye conditions including eyelid abnormalities, corneal ulcers, decreased tear production, uveitis, or glaucoma. To differentiate many of these conditions, your veterinarian must perform a complete and detailed ophthalmic examination, as well as several additional diagnostic tests. Treatment may include both topical and oral medications. Most dogs have an excellent prognosis, though some causes of conjunctivitis require long term or surgical treatment.
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Constipation is infrequent or difficult passage of stool or feces. This article outlines the most common causes of constipation, signs, treatment, and prognosis.
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A Coombs test is used to test for a disease called immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA). IMHA is a condition in which the immune system breaks down or destroys red blood cells, leading to anemia. The test detects the presence of immunoglobulins (antibodies) on the surface of red blood cells.
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Coonhound paralysis is a sudden inflammation of multiple nerve roots and peripheral nerves in dogs, and occasionally cats. It can be caused by an immune reaction to raccoon saliva. It can also occur in dogs who have not encountered a raccoon. In this case, it is called acute idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis, and its cause is often unknown. Dogs with coonhound paralysis start out with a stiff-legged gait that rapidly progresses to paralysis of all four legs. Good nursing care is essential for recovery.
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Corkscrew tail, also known as screw tail or ingrown tail, is a vertebral malformation that commonly occurs in certain dog breeds. Vertebrae may be fused together or otherwise abnormally structured, causing the tail to take an abnormal shape and curvature that can cause health problems.
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Corneal dystrophy is a condition that causes the corneas to become opaque (cloudy). There are three major categories of corneal dystrophy: epithelial, stromal, and endothelial. Each is named by the anatomic location of the abnormal tissue and opacity.
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Corneal lipidosis is an accumulation of fatty substances within the cornea. This is caused by genetics (corneal dystrophy), eye inflammation (corneal degeneration), or by an increase in circulating lipids in the body (hyperlipidemia). Visually, lipidosis appears as a sparkly or shiny area of the cornea. It is diagnosed by a thorough eye exam, bloodwork, and patient history. Treatment and prognosis will depend on the cause and may include treatment of underlying inflammatory conditions of the eye, or systemic treatment of elevated lipid blood levels.
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Ulcerative keratitis is a kind of inflammation that occurs in the cornea of the eye with a corneal ulcer. Some breeds seem to develop them more commonly, particularly breeds with short muzzles and prominent eyes like pugs and Boston terriers. There are many potential causes of ulcerative keratitis, including trauma, infection, and abnormal tear production. Antibiotic ointment or drops will be prescribed, and it is important to prevent additional trauma to the cornea. Superficial corneal ulcers typically heal within 5 to 7 days.
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This handout outlines corneal ulcers in dogs, a painful eye condition often resulting from trauma. Other causes, clinical signs, diagnostic testing, and treatment options are explained.
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Cornifying epitheliomas are benign skin tumors that are secondary to keratin buildup. They can develop anywhere but may be most troubling if they affect the skin around the nail, causing swelling, discomfort, and lameness. Surgical removal is curative in most cases.