Diseases

Urinary Incontinence in Dogs

Animals Affected

Dogs

Overview

Hormone-based urinary incontinence is a common problem in middle-aged and elderly spayed female dogs.  The syndrome occurs less frequently in male dogs.

In affected individuals, an imbalance of hormones in the body causes urine to leak from the bladder.  Affected dogs usually are not aware that urine is escaping from their bodies.

Most cases of urinary incontinence are manageable with a medication called PPA.

Tapeworms in Cats and Dogs

Animals Affected

Dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens.

Overview

Tapeworms are parasites of dogs and cats.   They live in the intestines and, although they rarely cause clinical symptoms or disease in pets, they rob their hosts of nutrients.  Tapeworms are aesthetically unpleasant.

The most common type of tapeworm is spread by fleas. Pets contract this species of tapeworm when they swallow fleas in the process of grooming.  Other tapeworms are spread through improperly prepared food.

Eosinophilic Granulomas (Rodent Ulcers) in Cats

Animals Affected

Cats

Overview

Eosinophilic granulomas are ulcers or sores that develop on the lips and in the mouth of cats.  They occur when the cat’s immune system misdirects its activities and attacks the cat’s mouth.

The syndrome is painful.   Severe eosinophilic granulomas can become infected or can be disfiguring.

With treatment, most eosinophilic granulomas can be managed.  However, cats often develop many ulcers over their lives, and the syndrome can be a chronic problem.

Kennel Cough (Infectious Tracheobronchitis) in Dogs

Animals Affected

Dogs

Overview

Kennel cough, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis (ITB), is a contagious disease of dogs.   A large number of organisms are believed to play a role in the syndrome. Kennel cough most often is caused by simultaneous infection with a mild respiratory virus (there are many such viruses) in combination with a bacteria called Bordetella bronchiseptica. The infection usually is limited to the windpipe (trachea) and major air passages in the lungs.