Library
-
Uveitis is an inflammation of one or more of the structures making up the uvea (part of the eye). Signs of uveitis are severe pain with an intense reddening of the visible parts of the eye. Measurement of intraocular pressure is often performed to diagnose uveitis. Treatment involves reducing the pain and inflammation in the eye as well as treating the initial cause of the disease.
-
Too much vitamin A can lead to poisoning. Vitamin A poisoning most commonly occurs when pets are fed raw liver, cod liver oil, or other supplements rich in vitamin A over several weeks to months. It takes a long time for signs of vitamin A poisoning to develop. If a dog ingests a large dose, they may quickly develop vomiting, drowsiness, irritability, and peeling skin.
-
Vitamin D poisoning occurs when a dog ingests a toxic dose of vitamin D. Common sources of vitamin D poisoning include rodenticides that contain vitamin D3 and certain human medications. The effects of vitamin D poisoning can last many weeks to months.
-
Xanthine bladder stones are an uncommon type of urinary stone that can occur in both dogs and cats. Xanthine is produced when purines (a component of animal proteins) are broken down within the body. Most dogs can further break down xanthine into other substances that are easily excreted, but some dogs are deficient in an enzyme that is required for this breakdown to occur. These dogs develop elevated levels of xanthine in the urine, resulting in xanthine stones forming within the urinary tract. They can also form secondary to administration of a medication called Allopurinol. Xanthine urinary tract stones are typically removed surgically. Affected dogs require long-term care with specialized diets to prevent recurrence.
-
Xylitol is a naturally occurring substance that is widely used as a sugar substitute. It is found naturally in berries, plums, corn, oats, mushrooms, lettuce, trees, and some other fruits. It may also be called wood sugar, birch sugar, and birch bark extract. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs.
-
Zinc is an essential mineral needed for DNA production, growth, wound healing, and immune function. Since zinc is not made in the body, it must be consumed in the diet. The body requires very small amounts of zinc and ingesting too much can cause poisoning.