Day: July 29, 2022

Don’t Ignore These Common Neurological Problems in PetsDon’t Ignore These Common Neurological Problems in Pets

Veterinary neurology is a branch of medicine that deals with diagnosing and treating nervous system disorders in animals. The nervous system includes the muscles, brain, nerves, and spinal cord. Neurological problems can be caused by injury, disease, or abnormal development. They can affect any part of the nervous system and cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild to severe.

As a responsible human companion to your pets, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms of common neurological disorders to get your cats or dogs the help they need as soon as possible.

Here are five of the most common neurological diseases in pets:

1. Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a disorder of the nervous system that causes recurrent seizures. It varies in severity, from mild twitching to violent convulsions. Pets with epilepsy may also experience changes in behavior, such as aggression or anxiety.

While there’s no cure for epilepsy, it can be managed with medication. If your animal companion has been diagnosed with epilepsy, work closely with your veterinarian to find the best treatment plan.

2. Meningitis

This is a condition wherein the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord are inflamed. It is caused by a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. Symptoms of meningitis include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Seizures

Meningitis can be fatal if not given attention promptly. If you suspect your pet has meningitis, take them to an emergency vet immediately, like Animal Emergency & Referral Center.

3. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

IVDD is a spine disorder that results in the rupture or herniation of one or more intervertebral discs. It’s most common in dogs, particularly smaller breeds two years older and above, like Dachshunds, Poodles, and Beagles. However, larger breeds can also be affected.

Symptoms of IVDD include:

• Pain
• Weakness
• Loss of coordination
• Paralysis

The best way to prevent IVDD is by keeping your dog at a healthy weight and avoiding activities that put unnecessary strain on their back, such as jumping up and down from furniture. If your dog develops IVDD, it may need surgery to repair the damaged disc(s).

That’s why you must see your vet regularly because they can see early signs of illnesses and recommend treatment that may help prevent the condition from progressing. Some of these can be diet, therapy, and supplements.

For instance, they can recommend hyperbaric oxygen therapy for animals with critical problems. This therapy can help improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation, promoting healing. Learn more here about how it works.

4. Dementia

Dementia, or cognitive decline, is a common neurological condition in older pets. It’s similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans and can cause a decline in mental function, including memory, learning, and awareness. Pets with dementia may also experience changes in behavior, such as increased anxiety or aggression.

There is no cure for dementia, but there are ways to manage it and make your pet more comfortable. These include:

• Environmental enrichment (e.g., providing toys and puzzle feeders)
• Medication
• Weight management

If you think your pet may display signs of dementia, talk to your veterinarian about the best way to proceed.

5. Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a viral disease affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Puppies are usually affected but can also attack adult dogs. It is extremely contagious and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Symptoms of canine distemper include:

• Fever
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Coughing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Muscle twitching
• Seizures

If you believe your dog has canine distemper, take them to the vet immediately. There is no cure for the disease, but early treatment can improve the chances of survival. Treatment typically includes supportive care to help relieve symptoms and prevent secondary infections.

Prevention is the best and most effective way to protect your dog from distemper. They should be updated on their vaccinations and avoid contact with other dogs that may be infected.

Keep in Mind

These are just five of the many conditions that can affect your pet’s brain and nervous system.

Once you see any of the signs, it’s important to see your veterinarian right away. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in the outcome for your pet.

What Daily Habits You Do Can Threaten Your Pet’s HealthWhat Daily Habits You Do Can Threaten Your Pet’s Health

Obtaining a pet can help us in several ways, physically and emotionally. As dog parents, we wish nothing for our dogs but joy and healthy life. Even though we don’t mean it, we can accidentally cause hurt to our furry friends when we do or do not do specific actions. The following will emphasize the most common mistakes most pet guardians make, which can risk their dog’s health.

Habits That Can Affect Our Pet’s Health

As much as most of us expect the best for our furry friends, few of the selections we make that we assume are secure and healthy turnout, minimizing their extended life. Consequently, you should be able to identify and adjust bad behaviors rapidly. When it pertains to your pet’s health, here are five practices you can change.

Forgetting to Exercise Your Pets

The morning stroll is something that most of us often tend to disregard, yet canines need day-to-day workouts and mental excitement to remain healthy. Pets that do not get the necessary amount of exercise are more likely to gain weight, much like human beings, which can lead to numerous health problems, including diabetes mellitus and high blood pressure. To see to it a longer and healthier life for your pet, give him the workout he requires.

Letting Your Pet Eat Anything

The fact that the majority of dogs will consume whatever they can get their paws on makes it easier to feed them than to feed your toddler. Nevertheless, it is still critical to be sure that various things do not make it into their mouths. You should stop allowing your canine to consume human food as a basic principle. You need to teach your canine not to consume anything off the table. Many foods, such as chicken bones, and chocolate, can endanger your animal. Montecito Veterinary Center can help you care for your pets properly.

Using Toxic Cleaning Products

You are expected to spend plenty of time tidying up your house if you have a dog friend. Even if your pet is clean and doesn’t shed, you must be cautious when cleaning close to animals. Numerous cleaning agents, such as chlorine, ammonia, and formaldehyde threaten dogs. If your dog is exposed to these chemicals, it might build kidney or liver disease or cancer. Speak with your veterinarian concerning natural cleaning options to keep your dog risk-free.

Smoking Near Your Dog

Many animal parents use hundreds or thousands of money each year on unique animal food and vet consultations to preserve the health of their canines but, after that, risk them to cigarette smoke. Secondhand smoke enhances the threat of respiratory and lung troubles in pets, just as it carries out in people. Due to the fact that their noses serve as filters, canines with longer noses have a double increased threat of creating nose cancer. An internal medicine specialist can help you in this condition.

Missing Yearly Vet Visitation

Although taking your animals to the vet consistently to check their well-being appears like a headache, it can aid them in living longer. Having your animal checked out at least once or twice a year can save their life. You do not recognize what’s going on inside a dog, so even the happiest and healthiest pets must be seen by a vet. As an avoidance, you should also ensure that your animals are updated on their vaccinations. This link can show you more information about pet vaccination.