Common Disorders in Domestic Animals

Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin that can result in itching, swelling, and redness. Dermatitis can be caused by many factors in pets, such as fleas, environmental allergies, or food allergies.
Mange is a skin disease caused by mites. Symptoms include intense itching, redness, sores, and hair loss. It is highly contagious and can spread between animals.
Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the skin, hair and occasionally the nails. Despite its name, it has no relation to worms. The main symptoms are bald patches, circular spots, and itchy skin.

Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining. It can result in vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite in animals. It can be caused by a number of factors such as ingestion of spoiled food, foreign objects, toxic substances or overeating.
Colitis is inflammation of the large intestine or colon resulting in frequent, painful passing of faeces. If left untreated, it can cause weight loss, loss of appetite, and dehydration.
Obstruction can occur if a pet swallows foreign objects such as toys or bones. This can lead to severe electrolyte imbalances and dehydration and is a veterinary emergency.

Asthma is a common disorder in cats and it involves inflammation and narrowing of the airways. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs, that can easily spread in kennels, pet stores, and dog shows. A main sign is a strong cough, often with a “honking” sound.
Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses or aspiration of food into the lungs. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention.

Diabetes is a common endocrine disorder in pets, particularly dogs and cats. This condition involves inadequate insulin production leading to high blood sugar levels. Symptoms can include excessive thirst and urination, increased hunger, and weight loss.
Hyperthyroidism is mostly seen in cats and it involves an overproduction of thyroid hormones which accelerate the body’s metabolism. Symptoms include increased appetite, rapid weight loss, and hyperactivity.
Cushing’s disease is most commonly found in dogs and is caused by overproduction of cortisol hormone. Signs of Cushing’s can include increased thirst and urination, panting, high blood pressure, and a pot-bellied appearance.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can occur in both dogs and cats and can cause painful urination, increased frequency of urination, and urine with strong odor.
Pyometra is a severe infection occurring in the uterus of unspayed female dogs and cats, characterized by pus-filled uterus. Symptoms can include increased drinking and urination, vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite. This disease is life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Kidney disease can cause a range of symptoms from weight loss, increased thirst, lack of appetite, vomiting, and bad breath. It’s a common disease in older pets and requires a special diet and often medication to manage.