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Cats + Medical Conditions

  • Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach’s lining. It may occur as a short episode (acute) or it may continue for a long time (chronic) and may be associated with underlying conditions that are more serious. This handout discusses possible causes, signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

  • Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract (the stomach and intestines). It can be caused by infection with bacteria, viruses, parasites, medications, or even new foods. The condition often causes abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and other clinical signs.

  • Glaucoma is a disease of the eye in which the pressure within the eye, called intraocular pressure (IOP), is increased. Glaucoma is caused by inadequate drainage of aqueous fluid. Glaucoma is classified as primary or secondary. High intraocular pressure causes damage to occur in the retina and the optic nerve. Blindness can occur very quickly unless the increased IOP is reduced. Analgesics to control the pain and medications that decrease fluid production and promote drainage are often prescribed to treat glaucoma. The prognosis depends to a degree upon the underlying cause of the glaucoma.

  • Heart disease refers to any abnormality of the structure or function of the heart. Most cats display no clinical signs until heart disease is advanced. This handout outlines types of heart disease and summarizes signs, diagnosis, and treatment options.

  • A heart murmur is an abnormal heart sound caused by turbulent blood flow. This article explains the common causes of heart murmurs in cats, how they are diagnosed, and when further testing may be recommended. Learn how the underlying cause influences treatment and prognosis.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.