Articles
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Hepatic encephalopathy is a neurological condition in cats and dogs that is caused by an underlying liver condition. It can cause lethargy, seizures, problems with balance and coordination, and coma. This handout outlines common causes, signs, diagnosis, and treatment options.
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Hepatic lipidosis, also known as fatty liver syndrome, is unique to cats and is one of the most common liver diseases seen in cats. Usually a cat with hepatic lipidosis has recently gone through a period of anorexia (little or no eating) for 3 to 4 consecutive days. Diagnosis of hepatic lipidosis is made from blood tests that demonstrate poor liver function and/or from a liver biopsy or fine needle aspirate. Hepatic lipidosis is treatable with aggressive nutritional support until a normal appetite returns. Treating the underlying initial cause of the inappetence is also essential for full recovery.
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Hepatic microvascular dysplasia is an inherited abnormality of the liver where microscopic blood vessels in the liver are underdeveloped or absent, resulting in decreased blood flow to the liver. As a result, the liver is less capable of processing toxins or producing the vital proteins needed for good health.
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Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) is an infectious disease caused by feline herpesvirus type-1. It is a major cause of upper respiratory disease in cats and is the most common cause of conjunctivitis. (inflammation of the tissues surrounding the eye, especially the lining of the lids and the third eyelid).
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Hiatal hernia refers to the protrusion of the abdominal contents into the chest cavity through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm. In most veterinary patients hiatal hernias appear to be congenital. Diagnosis is based on medical history, clinical signs, and X-rays (radiographs).
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The most common cause of hip dislocation is blunt force trauma (a fall or automobile injury), but any traumatic injury to the hip area may cause a hip to dislocate. Most cats with a hip dislocation will have severe hind limb lameness and may not be able to put any weight on the affected limb.
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The most common cause of hip dislocation is blunt force trauma (a fall or automobile injury). Hip dysplasia, a common developmental disorder in which the hip joint does not form properly, can also predispose a dog to hip dislocation. Most dogs with a hip dislocation will have severe hind limb lameness and may not be able to put any weight on the affected limb.
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Hip dysplasia is a deformity of the hip that occurs during growth. The result is laxity of the joint, followed by degenerative joint disease (DJD) or osteoarthritis (OA), which is the body's attempt to stabilize the loose hip joint. Hip dysplasia is a genetic disease that is affected by factors such as diet, environment, exercise, growth rate, muscle mass, and hormones. It is predominantly seen in larger dogs. Treatment depends upon the pet's clinical signs and amount of discomfort the pet is in.
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Histoplasmosis is an infection caused by histoplasma, a fungus found in moist soils and especially prevalent around the Ohio, Mississippi, Missouri, and St. Lawrence rivers, as well as the southern Great Lakes and Alberta. Fungal spores are inhaled or ingested and cause infection in many sites including the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, eyes, joints, and spleen. This handout outlines signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Histoplasmosis is transmissible to humans, especially if they are immunocompromised.
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Urticaria, or hives, is a skin condition characterized by raised red skin welts caused by direct contact with a substance that causes an allergic reaction. These substances include insect bites, food, pollens, molds, vaccinations, and medications. If the swelling progresses to the throat, breathing can be compromised and result in a medical emergency called anaphylaxis. Injectable antihistamines and corticosteroids usually bring about a dramatic improvement, sometimes in as little as a few minutes.