Why do Calcium Oxalate Uroliths form? Genetics, dietary issues and some metabolic diseases can predispose pets to the formation of calcium crystals or stones. Pets that have more acidic (low) urine pH and very concentrated urine can be factors in calcium oxalate...
General Information Chronic kidney disease refers to a condition in which the kidneys have not been performing at least one of their main tasks adequately, resulting in blood or physical abnormalities. Normal kidneys filter the blood, removing wastes and excreting...
Neck or back pain are two common causes of discomfort in our pets. You may notice subtle changes such as lack of jumping on/off of things, having difficulty with stairs, standing in a hunched position, difficulty getting comfortable laying down or getting up or even...
Why do Struvite Uroliths form? Several factors are needed to form a struvite stone. Struvite is a urinary mineral composed of ammonium, phosphate and magnesium. These three substances are common in urine, but when they are in high enough concentrations they bind...
Grapes and raisins can be toxic to dogs resulting in kidney failure. It is unknown at this time which part of the grape causes toxicity. Ingestion of as little as 1 or 2 grapes can result in toxicity. Not every dog or cat is susceptible and some dogs can tolerate...
Hot spots are a common dermatologic condition of dogs. Hot spots are the result of a superficial skin infection – in the early stages the skin will turn red, become moist and itchy. Often hair loss will occur as a result of chewing and infection. Frequently this area...
Would you recognize choke in your horse? The word choke is a bit of a misnomer in the horse. In people it refers to an obstruction of the trachea or windpipe, usually with a piece of food. In horses the obstruction is of the esophagus not of the airway. This means...
Laminitis is the inflammation of the tissues which connect the hoof wall to the coffin bone. This can occur in horses of any age, sex and size, and it can occur due to multiple factors. Severity may range from mild to very severe cases in which euthanasia may be...
Overheating can be a serious problem in horses. More often this is an issue in summer with warm, humid weather; yet it can occur at all times of the year. As in any species, overweight horses are more prone to overheating. Any sort of breeze, even those supplied...
Feline upper respiratory infections are a common cause of nasal congestion, sneezing and ocular discharge in cats. Occasionally these cats will have more severe symptoms like a fever, cough, and decreased appetite as the infection progresses. Causes of feline...