Hyperparathyroidism is a concerning condition often seen in cats, particularly those suffering from chronic kidney disease. This disorder results from an overproduction of the parathyroid hormone (PTH), which is crucial for regulating calcium and phosphate balance in the body. When kidney function declines, it impacts the metabolism of these minerals, leading to a cascade of
Health
Hypoglycemia, often identified as low blood sugar in cats, is a serious medical condition that occurs when a cat’s blood glucose levels fall below normal. This state can cause severe health complications and may even be fatal if not treated promptly. While it can affect cats of any age, hypoglycemia frequently arises as a secondary
Hypercalcemia is a serious medical condition characterized by elevated calcium levels in a cat’s blood, defined quantitatively as exceeding 10.5 mg/dL. This abnormality can be indicative of severe underlying health issues, most notably kidney failure. As responsible pet owners, understanding hypercalcemia is crucial as it can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. The symptoms of
Metabolic alkalosis in felines, commonly referred to as excess alkali in the blood, signifies a disturbance in the body’s acid-base balance, primarily stemming from elevated bicarbonate (HCO3) levels. While the condition can appear sudden, it is typically symptomatic of a deeper health issue. Awareness of the potential triggers and signs is crucial for cat owners,
As pet owners, we often bear witness to the health concerns that our feline companions face. One such condition that can significantly affect a cat’s quality of life is the presence of excess blood cells in the eyes, known clinically as hypopyon and lipid flare. This article will delve into what causes this condition, how
For many cat owners, the decision to spay can be a pivotal step towards managing their pet’s health and behaviors. However, one complication that can arise is known as Ovarian Remnant Syndrome (ORS). This intriguing condition occurs when a spayed cat exhibits symptoms typical of being in heat, due to residual ovarian tissue that may
Adenocarcinoma in felines, often recognized as ceruminous gland adenocarcinoma, is a malignant tumor that arises from the sweat glands located in the external auditory canal of cats. While this form of cancer is relatively uncommon, it predominantly affects older cats, making it crucial for pet owners to remain vigilant about their cats’ ear health as
Renal tubular acidosis (RTA) is a relatively rare but serious condition that primarily impacts the kidneys of cats. This disorder hampers the renal system’s ability to adequately expel acid, leading to an abnormal buildup of acidity in the bloodstream. Furthermore, many cats diagnosed with RTA may exhibit elevated potassium levels, complicating their overall health. Although
Ear cancer in cats is a serious condition marked by the emergence of tumors predominantly in the outer ear and external ear canals. This disease is particularly concerning for certain breeds, especially white cats and those with lighter skin, as they are more susceptible to this type of cancer due to their reduced protective pigmentation.
E. coli infections, known scientifically as colibacillosis, are a significant health concern for our feline companions, particularly for vulnerable populations like kittens. This bacterial infection primarily affects the intestines but can escalate into severe health risks, including septicemia or blood poisoning. The origin of the bacteria often traces back to an infected mother cat, elevating