Pet Health
Your pet’s health is our top priority, and understanding common conditions is an important part of keeping them happy and well. On this page, you’ll find helpful information about the diseases, conditions, and emergencies we see most often in pets. Our goal is to give you the knowledge to recognize when something might be wrong and the confidence to know when it’s time to reach out for veterinary care.
Common Conditions
Dental Disease
Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in pets. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, infections, and tooth loss. Signs include bad breath, drooling, or difficulty eating. Regular dental care helps prevent pain and keeps your pet healthy.
Ear Infections
Pets with floppy ears, allergies, or lots of swimming time are prone to ear infections. Symptoms include head shaking, scratching at the ears, redness, or odor. Left untreated, infections can cause chronic pain and even hearing loss.
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that can cause joint pain, stiffness, fever, and low energy in pets. If left untreated, it may lead to more serious health problems, including kidney disease. A simple blood test can help us diagnose Lyme disease, and most pets respond well to antibiotics when treated early. Year-round tick prevention and, in some cases, vaccination are the best ways to protect your pet.
Ruptured Anal Glands
Anal glands normally empty on their own, but if they become blocked or infected, they may rupture causing pain, swelling, and discharge near your pet’s rear. This condition is uncomfortable and needs veterinary care to help your pet heal and prevent future issues.
Upper Respiratory Infections
Coughing, sneezing, runny eyes, and nasal discharge are signs of respiratory infections, especially common in cats and young pets. While many are mild, some can become serious if untreated.
GI Upset (Vomiting & Diarrhea)
Digestive issues are among the most common reasons pets visit the vet. Causes can range from dietary indiscretion (eating something they shouldn’t) to infections, parasites, or more serious conditions. While mild cases may resolve quickly, ongoing vomiting or diarrhea can lead to dehydration and may signal an underlying illness. If your pet’s symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, or if they seem weak, painful, or stop eating, it’s important to have them examined.
Eye Infections
Redness, squinting, discharge, or pawing at the eyes can all be signs of an eye infection. These issues may be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergies, or injury. Left untreated, eye problems can worsen quickly, so it’s important to have your pet examined if you notice changes in their eyes.
Coughing
Occasional coughing can be normal, but frequent or persistent coughing may point to issues like kennel cough, allergies, heart disease, or other respiratory concerns. Because the causes can vary, a veterinary exam is the best way to determine the source and get your pet the right treatment.
Lumps & Bumps
Not all lumps are serious, but any new growth should be checked by a veterinarian. Some may be benign (non-cancerous), while others can be more concerning. A simple exam or test can help us determine what it is and whether treatment is needed.
Urinary Issues (Not Male Cat Blockages)
Straining to urinate, accidents in the house, or blood in the urine are all signs of urinary problems. These can be caused by infections, inflammation, or bladder stones. While not always life-threatening, urinary issues are uncomfortable and should be treated promptly to prevent complications.
Chronic Conditions
Arthritis
Arthritis is common in aging pets and causes joint pain and stiffness. Pets may seem less active, reluctant to climb stairs, or slower to rise. Treatments like medication, laser therapy, and exercise can greatly improve comfort.
Diabetes
Diabetes affects a pet’s ability to regulate blood sugar. Increased thirst, urination, and weight changes are early signs. With proper treatment and monitoring, diabetic pets can live long, happy lives.
Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease is common in older cats and dogs. Symptoms include increased thirst, weight loss, and decreased appetite. Early detection and management help slow progression and maintain quality of life.
Heart Disease
Pets with heart disease may cough, tire easily, or have trouble breathing. Regular checkups and early intervention are key to keeping your pet comfortable and active.
Thyroid Issues
Both overactive (hyperthyroidism) and underactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid problems can affect pets. Signs may include changes in weight, appetite, energy levels, or coat quality. With proper diagnosis and ongoing treatment, most pets with thyroid issues can live full, happy lives.
Allergies
Pets can develop allergies to food, fleas, or environmental triggers like pollen and dust. Common signs include itching, skin infections, ear problems, or digestive upset. Allergy management often requires a combination of medication, diet changes, and ongoing care to keep pets comfortable.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IBD is a chronic condition where the digestive tract becomes inflamed, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and decreased appetite. Though it can’t be cured, it can often be managed long-term with special diets, medications, and regular monitoring.
Emergencies
Poison Ingestion
Chocolate, grapes, xylitol, certain plants, and medications are toxic to pets. If you think your pet has eaten something dangerous, call us right away, fast action can save lives.
Trauma or Injury
Being hit by a car, falls, or fights with other animals can cause hidden internal injuries. Even if your pet seems fine, they should be checked immediately.
Birthing Difficulties (Dystocia)
If your pet is having trouble giving birth, it can quickly become an emergency for both the mother and her puppies or kittens. Signs of dystocia include straining for more than 30 minutes without delivering, more than 2 hours between newborns, or signs of pain, weakness, or distress. If you suspect your pet is experiencing birthing difficulties, contact us immediately prompt care can save lives.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke happens when a pet’s body overheats and can’t cool down properly, often on hot days or after overexertion. Signs include heavy panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, or collapse. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention. Never delay care if you suspect heatstroke quick action can save your pet’s life.
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
Bloat is a life-threatening condition most common in large, deep-chested dogs. It occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply. Signs include a swollen abdomen, unproductive retching, restlessness, drooling, and collapse. Bloat progresses rapidly and requires emergency surgery, if you notice these symptoms, seek immediate veterinary care.
Quills
If your pet comes into contact with a porcupine, quills can become lodged in their face, mouth, or body. Quills are painful and can migrate deeper into tissues if not removed properly, leading to infection or more serious complications. Never try to pull quills out yourself, this can cause them to break and embed further. Prompt veterinary care is the safest way to remove quills and relieve your pet’s pain.
Difficulty Breathing
Labored breathing, blue gums, or noisy breathing are medical emergencies. These pets need immediate veterinary care.
Seizures
Seizures may appear as collapsing, paddling, twitching, or staring off into space. While brief seizures may pass on their own, they are always a reason to seek veterinary attention.
Blocked Bladder
Male cats are especially at risk for urinary blockages, which can be life-threatening. Signs include straining in the litter box, vocalizing in pain, or no urine output. Emergency care is critical.