One might think in a time when highly effective and safe vaccines for canine distemper virus are widely available this debilitating disease would be eradicated in the developed world. Sadly, that is not the case. In fact, canine distemper is still rampant in some areas of the United States. As…
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Hydrocephalus in Pets – Too Much Water on the Brain
The brain is a vital organ with many unique parts. Cerebrospinal fluid or CSF must be able to circulate appropriately. When flow of CSF is inadequate, serious and potentially life-threatening problems arise. This week I wanted to share information about hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by inappropriate accumulation of CSF in…
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Polyphagia – When Your Pet is Eating You Out of House & Home
We all have heard stories about cats stealing lunch meat from their owner’s sandwich or dogs “counter surfing” to find that delicious and warm fresh loaf of bread. Sometimes the pets are simply food motivated and naughty. But – more often than naught – there is a medical reason for…
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Pyrethrin and Pyrethroid Toxicity in Cats: What Pet Owners and Veterinary Teams Need to Know
Pyrethrins and pyrethroids are common ingredients found in many flea and tick preventatives, household insecticides, and gardening products. While these chemicals are generally safe for dogs and humans when used as directed, cats are uniquely sensitive. Accidental exposure can quickly lead to life-threatening toxicity. This article explains the mechanism of…
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Lymphoma in Cats – What to Know About This Common Cancer
In a previous post, I reviewed a cancer in dogs called lymphoma. You can find that information here. Unfortunately, lymphoma also commonly affects our feline friends. So, this week I’ve dedicated some time to spreading news about lymphoma in cats. I hope you find it helpful. Happy reading! Lymphoma –…
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Marijuana Intoxication in Dogs & Cats – Not So Dope!
I remember being at a house party at Colorado State University. It was the Spring semester of my senior year. I’d already been accepted to veterinary school at Cornell University. We were having a great time – dancing, imbibing, and generally just whooping it up. Then it happened. A scream…