Every day, millions of people purchase a pet for themselves or their family. However, many are attracted to the cuteness and love that these animals bring, but unprepared to deal with the many health issues that can arise over time. While it is true that animals develop health issues at an age similar to humans, their problems often appear suddenly and out of nowhere.
This article will address common health issues in cats and dogs:
1. Heartworm
Heartworm disease is an illness that often affects dogs; however, cats outdoors can get it as well. It is caused by a parasite that is ingested by a mosquito that bites an affected animal. Once the parasite enters the dog’s bloodstream, it travels to the heart and lungs, where it begins to form blisters. If left untreated, this condition may be fatal. Dogs with this disease may have trouble breathing or get tired after exercise. They will also have coughing fits or develop red spots on their skin as well. It is important to determine if your pet has this disease and how best to treat them.
2. Skin allergies
Dogs and cats are known to scratch frequently; however, scratching can also indicate an allergic reaction. Many different allergens can trigger this type of reaction, including fleas, food, and even the environment. When a pet’s skin becomes itchy and inflamed due to allergies, it will often begin to scratch more vigorously. This can cause serious damage to the skin in some cases. If you suspect that your pet has an allergy issue, a trip to the veterinarian is in order. The exact cause may not be known, but it is worth checking out just to be safe.
3. Bladder or urinary tract disease
Many pets develop bladder or urinary tract disease over time. In cats, it can be a very serious problem. This disease is often caused by an infection that develops in the bladder or a kidney infection. The symptoms of urinary tract or bladder disease are not always apparent; however, most vets will run a few tests to determine exactly what is wrong. There are several possible causes for this problem, and it is always worth visiting the vet if you suspect that your pet may be suffering from this issue.
4. Periodontitis or dental disease
Dogs and cats develop periodontitis or dental disease after being exposed to a high volume of bacteria for an extended period of time. Periodontitis is caused by plaque that builds up on the teeth, and dogs and cats have teeth that are different from those in humans. A tooth infection develops from this buildup, resulting in poor oral health. When there is a tooth infection, your pet may chew on its paws, develop appetite loss, or lick other parts of its body which act as vectors for bacteria. There are several different treatments for this condition, including dental extractions and antibiotics if the infection develops into abscesses.
5. Ear infections
Cats and dogs have ears that are very sensitive to changes in temperature. While this does not affect their hearing, it can result in an infection. If you notice your pet has a persistent ear infection, visit the vet immediately to determine why they are sick. Antibiotic drops may be necessary to clear up this issue.
6. Chronic kidney disease
This disease is one of the most common health issues that cats and dogs face. In dogs, it can be caused by high levels of phosphorus in the system. In cats, it can be caused by a genetic mutation responsible for cystinosis. This is an extremely serious condition that needs to be treated quickly. Thankfully, there are several ways to prevent kidney disease in both species and reduce your pet’s risk of developing this illness. This includes following a vet-approved diet and avoiding certain foods.
Following veterinary tips is key to keeping your pet healthy, and it is always a good idea to discuss any health issues with your vet. They can provide you with suggestions on how to prevent potential problems before they become major issues.
