Rabies, a Danger Closer Than You Think Rabies, a Danger Closer Than You Think It's time for us to understand more about this disease so that we can safely cope and help stop the spread of rabies. Rabies is caused by the Rabies virus (pronounced Rabies) that destroys the central nervous system, causing madness. The rabies virus is spread through the saliva of animals that are carriers of the disease through a bite, making the disease contagious to humans and other animals. After being infected, symptoms will appear within 21 to 60 days. This virus is destroyed by heat, sunlight, and dryness. It is also easily destroyed by soap and water and common disinfectants...
Makrut, a stray cat, approximately 5 years old, was brought in for treatment by his owner with skin sores spreading across his face, nose, body, legs, and tail. The sores were raised, with some areas becoming pitted and filled with blood and lymph. Veterinarians examined cells from the sores and found a deep fungal infection, known as Sporotrichosis. The disease is most commonly caused by the Sporotrix schenckii bacteria, a common environmental pathogen transmitted through wounds or bites. It can also be transmitted to mammals such as dogs or…
Long-term management of cats with cystitis to reduce the risk of recurrence has 3 simple principles: 1. Increase the amount of water. Increasing water intake is important to help dilute urine and increase the frequency of urination. This prevents cats from holding urine for too long. Roughly calculate by multiplying the cat's weight by 50 to equal the amount of water they should receive per day. 2. Reduce stress. There should be more toys or activities with the cat. Other environmental management such as having enough food bowls and water containers. The litter box should be in a quiet area for the cat to do its business. The cat litter must be scooped and cleaned every day. There should be at least one litter box per cat. Don't forget to separate cats that often fight to reduce stress. 3.…
Have you ever noticed your cat losing weight or becoming excessively thin? Do you feel only bones when you touch them, or in very thin cases, they may even be weak? These are relatively common illnesses, and owners need to take their cat to a veterinarian for examination and treatment. The examination process includes: 1. A thorough history and physical examination of the cat. This begins with an examination of the mouth for inflammation of the gums, tongue, and tonsils, as inflammation in the mouth and throat can cause decreased appetite and weight loss. The external pharynx, where the thyroid gland is located, can be palpated for enlargement. A noticeable enlargement can indicate hyperthyroidism or thyroid toxicity. A preliminary palpation of the abdomen may also be performed to check for abnormal masses of size and shape, such as enlarged kidneys, intestines, or lymph nodes. 2. Laboratory tests. These include blood tests to count various blood cells (white blood cells, red blood cells), hormone levels (such as thyroid hormones), liver and kidney function tests, and urinalysis to assess kidney function…
Heart disease in dogs and cats is caused by abnormalities in the structure and function of the heart. The disease will develop over time, but the final result is a severe condition affecting the heart's function called heart failure. It can be found since birth (congenital heart disease) in the age of not more than 1 year and heart disease in dogs and cats that occurs later (acquired heart disease). The disease develops in the age range from 6 years and up, is the most common characteristic and is often found in older dogs. Heart disease is divided into...
Cancer can occur in both dogs and cats of all breeds. If owners notice any abnormalities, such as an abnormally growing mass in their pet, X-rays or ultrasounds are necessary for evaluation. A biopsy is also required to ensure it's not malignant. Therefore, regular health checkups for your pet are crucial. Early detection significantly increases the chances of a successful treatment. Symptoms include: 1. A tumor that grows larger or expands, often located on the skin or in the abdominal cavity. 2. Non-healing sores, such as ulcers. 3. Abnormal bowel and gastric function…