Articles
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Home care after surgery mainly involves the restriction of physical activity. Excessive physical activity often leads to injury or serious complications. Monitor the incision daily for signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or excessive licking, and never apply anything to the incision unless instructed to do so. To keep your cat from licking, your veterinarian can provide you with a protective collar or recovery suit. Your cat should gradually improve each day.
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Skin gland, hair follicle, and sebaceous gland tumors are often benign. Matrical carcinoma and sebaceous gland adenocarcinoma are rare and more aggressive forms of the disease. Regardless of the type (sweat, hair, or sebaceous) diagnosis is made by fine needle aspiration, biopsy, and/or surgical removal and histopathology. Further treatment is reviewed.
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Systemic lupus is a rare disease in cats and most commonly affects Siamese, Persians, and Himalayans. It is caused by immune system dysregulation resulting in the immune system attacking different cells in the body. Skin changes can include ulceration or erosions of the face, ears, or entire body. Other systems affected include the kidneys, joints, blood cells, and the central nervous system. Diagnosis is difficult, requiring the presence of a minimum of three of the 11 criteria set by the American College of Rheumatology. Treatment involves suppressing the immune system with steroids and other immunosuppressive medications. Prognosis is guarded, as treatment to control the symptoms will be needed lifelong and in some cases may not be effective.
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Normal body temperature for dogs and cats is 101 to 102.5°F (38.3 to 39.2°C). Pets with temperatures above 104°F (40.0°C) or falls below 99°F (37.2°C) need immediate veterinary care. Temperature can be taken rectally or aurally. If taking your pet’s temperature is too difficult, take your pet to your veterinarian. If your pet’s temperature remains high or low, take him to your veterinarian.
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Nebulization and coupage are used in patients with a variety of lung conditions and can be performed by veterinary staff and pet owners. Nebulization may be used to deliver a variety of medications to the lungs, in cases of infection, allergic lung disease, or other lung conditions. Coupage is often recommended for patients with pneumonia or bronchitis.
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Telehealth is a broad term that refers to the use of telecommunications to provide health-related services. Telehealth services can be delivered by a variety of methods including telephone, text messaging, internet chat, and videoconferencing. Teletriage is the act of performing triage remotely, via telephone or internet and helps determine the urgency of your pet’s medical concern. Telemedicine refers to the practice of medicine at a distance. In the context of veterinary medicine, telemedicine refers to a veterinarian formulating a diagnosis and treatment plan for your pet without an in-person examination. Telemedicine is typically only permitted within the context of an existing Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship. Given the current COVID-19 pandemic and social/physical distancing requirements however, some federal and local governments have relaxed the requirements surrounding telemedicine.
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Telemedicine is defined as the act of practicing medicine at a distance. Telemedicine can be offered in a number of different ways: telephone calls, text messaging, online chat, email consultations, and visits conducted through videoconferencing programs. Telemedicine is not appropriate for every concern, such as a pet hit by a car; however, a number of common veterinary complaints can be addressed via telemedicine (e.g., flea allergies, minor limping, mild diarrhea). While it is impossible to perform a complete, comprehensive exam during a telemedicine appointment, in many cases your veterinarian can gather enough information to arrive at a reasonable diagnosis and start treatment. If your veterinarian determines that your pet requires in-person care, your veterinarian can help you determine when and where your pet should be seen and may be able to give you an idea of what to expect during the in-person veterinary visit.
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Telmisartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure in cats and off-label to treat kidney disease in both cats and dogs. This medication is given by mouth in the form of a liquid or tablet. It may be given with or without food but is better absorbed if given on an empty stomach. Side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, low blood pressure, and decreased energy. There are several drugs that can contribute to adverse effects when given with telmisartan. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking. If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately.
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Abdominal enlargement in cats may occur due to a simple cause such as obesity, pregnancy, or intestinal parasites; however, it can also be a symptom of different illnesses including heart disease, organ enlargement, cancer, FIP, trauma, and rarely hyperadrenocorticism or hypothyroidism. Identifying the cause of abdominal enlargement can take several steps starting with history and physical exam, progressing to screening tests including bloodwork and urinalysis. The CBC is assessed for signs of anemia, low platelets, or signs of inflammation. A biochemistry profile may reveal liver or kidney dysfunction, hypo- or hyperproteinemia, hypoglycemia, or other abnormalities. Urinalysis is used to fully interpret the biochemistry and check for abnormal urinary sediment. Based on the findings of the screening tests, additional diagnostics may include imaging, EKG, tissue biopsy, or fluid analysis.
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Tetanus is a medical condition caused by a toxin. This toxin, produced by the bacteria Clostridium tetani, affects the nerves, spinal cord, and brain, leading to hyperexcitability resulting in muscle spasms. Cats are less susceptible to the effects of tetanus toxin than humans and horses. Tetanus is typically diagnosed based on exam findings. Cats with tetanus require intensive nursing care. Most cats develop localized, self-limiting disease, which will respond to appropriate early treatment.
