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  • Heartworms are blood-borne parasites that reside in the heart or nearby large blood vessels of infected animals. Heartworm disease is much less common in cats than dogs, but more common than previously thought. This handout explains the disease and outlines signs, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

  • Heartworm disease is caused by a parasite that is much less common in cats than in dogs. However, heartworm infection in cats is difficult to diagnose, so the true rate of infection may be higher than it appears. Heartworm is usually diagnosed with a simple blood test. Treatment options are limited in cats.

  • Heartworm disease is challenging to treat in cats because there is currently no approved medication that safely eliminates adult heartworms. Treatment often focuses on managing symptoms and reducing the risk of sudden death while the infection resolves naturally, a process that can take several years. Prevention is the best treatment in cats.

  • Age is not a disease, but many changes occur as cats age that can result in diseases or disabilities. It's important to spend time with your cat to keep their stress low and monitor for changes. Regular veterinary examinations and discussions about your cat's behaviors at home will allow your veterinarian to provide recommendations on how to keep your senior cat healthy.

  • Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive, degenerative disease that worsens over time. This handout discusses ways you can help your dog deal with OA. In addition to medications that may be prescribed by your veterinarian, other treatment options are outlined, such as weight loss, exercise, and complementary therapies such as chiropractic and physiotherapy.

  • When a beloved family member dies, the survivors mourn the loss — including other pets. While dogs and cats may not fully grasp the significance of death, many pets exhibit behavioral patterns that suggest that they have been affected by the loss. This handout provides guidance on how to help your pet through their grief.

  • Contenido en español actualizado.
    Translated from the original English article Hematoma of the Ear in Cats

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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).