Animal health

We may not notice our cat has a bloated and hard belly until the problem has progressed. This is because cats do not often like their bellies being touched. Their undersides are sensitive since many of their vital organs are located in this vulnerable region. Such vulnerability is also the reason why...

External and internal deworming is incredibly important for the health of our dogs. Many dog owners are however, still unaware of the importance antiparasitics. Owners who do not deworm their dogs, leave their animals exposed to infestations that can cause: discomfort, diseases and even death. Some of these...

Have you recently adopted a guinea pig and are wondering how to care for it? If you have a guinea pig it is very important to make sure that you maintain its health accordingly. If you believe that your guinea pig may be ill, we suggest consulting your veterinarian as soon as possible. If they are suffering...

Rabies is generally associated with dogs. We may fear stray dogs in case they are rabid, especially if they seem aggressive, but the same fear rarely occurs when encountering cats. However, in a 2008 study by the American CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), it was shown that more rabies cases...

There are different reasons a dog may have black skin, some of which should be concerning. This is the case when it a symptom of an underlying condition. This can be a hormonal imbalance which is causing changes in their physicality and likely their behavior. It is also important to remember that black...

Taluremia is a disease which is common in the wilds of Asia, Europe and North America. However, it is fortunately not one which is very common in domestic rabbits. This doesn't mean it is impossible for a rabbit to contract it, however. While uncommon, if a rabbit is infected there is a chance of fatality,...

You may or may not have heard of Horner's syndrome, but it is something which can affect any dog. This is because it is essentially nerve damage, resulting in various symptoms which affect the eyes. This symptoms are such that they are generally easy for guardians to spot in their dogs, especially if you...

Following a vaccination schedule for cats is incredibly important and necessary in terms of the health and safety of the animal. Vaccines keep an animal safe from serious diseases, specifically for animals that travel or live in groups. However, as with most drugs, vaccines can present a series of adverse...

At AnimalWised, we understand there are many sensitive issues when it comes to pet care. However, care is the operative word and we strive to provide the best information to make the world better for both individual animals and the animal community as a whole. Few topics are as sensitive as animal abortion....

Cats can become dehydrated easily, especially if they are not cared for properly. They are sensitive animals and can also be fussy with what they consume. Not only do we need to provide water, but it needs to be fresh and clean. If they only eat dry kibble, they won't have enough moisture in their food...

The first thing to know about Shar Pei fever is that is is not fatal if caught in time. In fact, with adequate treatment, symptoms should start to resolve themselves relatively quickly. It is important to know that all Shar Pei dogs have the potential of contracting the disease. Unfortunately, the reasons...

Anemia is not a disease in itself, but a blood disorder which often results from disease, as well as other causes. It describes the condition of low red blood cells and/or low hemoglobin in the dog's blood. There are several types of anemia, each with its particular characteristics and respective treatments....

Hamsters will scratch harmlessly as part of their daily grooming routine. Whether they are scratching themselves, licking to remove dirt or scratching at their cage to move bedding into a more comfortable position, a certain amount needs to be tolerated. However, when this behavior is repeated too frequently...

Maggots in dogs occur when a fly imbeds eggs into the skin of the animal which later develop into larvae. It is these larvae of various fly species which are known as maggots. When this occurs, it is known as canine myiasis. Various Diptera species can infest dogs with their larvae. While most do so...

Filariasis is a parasitic disease caused by the dirofilaria immitis, otherwise known as the heartworm. This condition is spread through a parasitic roundowrm that is shared through hosts, i.e. mosquitoes. Heartworm is incredibly dangerous, this is because the adult form of this parasite install themselves in...

Vomiting and diarrhea are relatively common in dogs and can sometimes worry their owners. This situation can become increasingly worrying if it doesn't desist or if there is an appearance of blood in the vomit or feces. Some symptoms such; anorexia, apathy or fever can even worsen this clinical case. In...

Dogs can sometimes experience skin irritation which can appear as red or itchy areas on the skin. This irritation can cause severe discomfort for our canines. Skin irritation is dogs is known as dermatitis. The causes for skin problems in dogs can vary, therefore, if you notice that your dog is experiencing...

Kidney failure or renal insufficiency in dogs refers to a disease that affects one or both kidneys. This condition causes alterations to the function of these organs. Kidney failure can manifest acutely or chronically. This happens when the failure of a dog’s kidneys progressively degenerates. In this...

Rectal bleeding in dogs is always cause for alarm among pet guardians, although there are many causes of this symptom. The type of blood can differ, helping us to know its origin. The amount of blood is also an important factor. A dog dripping blood from their anus is likely in more danger than a dog...

A dog's nervous system is incredibly complex. Carrying signals from the brain to the rest of the body to control function and activity, even the slightest alteration can result in significant impairment. Dogs are susceptible to certain neurological disorders just as we are. When these neurological issues...

Dehydration is a condition that does not only affect humans, but animals too. Dehydration in our dogs can appear due to many different causes. Dehydration has different degrees of severity. It is incredibly important that dog owners are familiar with the signs and symptoms of dehydration in dogs. Dehydration...

Although ticks in dogs are more common in dogs, cats can also be affected by these ectoparasites. This is specifically prevalent in cats that do not receive adequate preventative medicine. Ticks feed on blood and can cause intense itching for our felines. In addition, ticks can also transmit serious diseases...

Allergies appear when the immune system develops an adverse or exaggerated response to an allergen. An allergic reaction leads to high release of histamine in the body. This hypersensitivity occurs as a consequence of the ingestion of certain foods or compounds. Food allergies in felines can cause several...

The Doberman Pinscher is a remarkably elegant, intelligent and sensitive dog. This dog stands out among the 5 smartest dog breeds. According to Stanley Coren, psychology professor and neuropsychological researcher, Dobermans are able to learn, memorize and reproduce with great excellence and speed. In...

We all know how annoying persistent hiccups can be. We may have heard many old wives tales about how to cure them, but it might not be as easy to make your cat drink from the other side of their bowl. They can be frustrating, but it's important to know they are not very common in cats. The first thing...

A canary is a bird that has been bred in captivity for more than 500 years. This songbird is sweet, harmonious and greatly appreciated by canary enthusiasts for its pleasant and sweet melodies. Canaries are generally easy to care for. However, most importantly, they must be kept clean. If a canary or its...

Halitosis or bad breath is a relatively common problem in dogs and can be caused by many different things. It is important to know, that this halitosis is not normal, should not be ignored and requires veterinary treatment. The causes of bad or ‘‘fishy’’ breath can range from dental hygiene problems to...

We might think that black specks in a cat's fur are dandruff, but it is possible they are a symptom of parasites such as fleas. Sometimes the black dandruff can be under the chin, around the ears or in other common areas. These locations can help us to determine the cause of the cat's black specks. Dandruff...

The appearance of a lump in the neck of our beloved dog is an understandable cause for concern. As we often pet them here, we may be more likely to detect it than other locations (e.g. some dogs may not enjoy being petted in their sensitive belly area). Lumps can appear like a ball under the skin or seem...

In addition to body language and vocalizations, cats use their eyes to communicate. Facial expressions are used to intimate meaning to us, other cats and animals of different species. For many, a feline’s gaze is one of the most mysterious. This is often due to characteristic width of their pupils. This...

When a cat is throwing up white foam, it can be a symptom of a serious condition which can be gastrointestinal or more systemic. Although cats can vomit with some regularity and not have a serious health condition, it is very important we do not ignore this symptom. The color and consistency of cat vomit...

If your dog is shaking and can't stand up, it means they are experiencing tremors and mobility problems at the same time. There are many underlying causes of tremors which can result in shaking, but this does not necessarily mean the dog is losing balance or can't walk. Establishing a diagnosis requires going...

As caregivers to our dogs, we need to ensure all of their needs are met. Unfortunately, some of our canine's health considerations aren't always apparent. This is why regular checkups at the vet will help us to ensure they are kept away from hidden dangers. Checking their blood glucose levels are a way to...

Unless they have eaten something which is yellow in color, the yellow liquid a cat vomits is likely to be bile. This is a yellowish or greenish liquid which is produced in the liver. Bile is important for healthy digestion in cats and its production is essential in breaking down certain lipids. While bile...

Many dogs are prone to vomiting. They do it when they eat something disagreeable, when they have overindulged or if they exercise too soon after eating. However, there is always a reason for it, whether relatively benign or a symptom of something more serious. Sometimes dogs may make the same retching sounds,...

Nosebleeds in dogs can be very worrying, especially if we are not around to see the cause. Scientifically known as ‘epistaxis’, nosebleeds occur when blood drips from the nostrils. This could be due to blunt trauma or due to some internal issue such as inflammation. Most people will have experienced a nosebleed...

Canine babesiosis or Babesia Canisis a severe parasitic disease transmitted through bites by infected an tick. Babesiosis can affect dogs of all breeds and ages. However, it is more common in dogs that have not received adequate preventive medicine. When not treated quickly, babesiosis in dogs can cause...

Are you looking for the best dog arthritis treatment? If so, this is the article for you! Have you ever heard of chondroprotector for dogs? To understand what chondroprotectors for dogs are, it is necessary, first, to define the concept of 'chondroprotection'. Chondroprotection is the set of measures...

Some caregivers have the bad habit of going to their own kit every time their dog has some symptomatology that resemble human illnesses, such as a cold or vomiting. Thus, they medicate their dogs with common drugs for human use, such as ibuprofen, paracetamol (acetaminophen) or aspirin, without being...

When your dog experiences their first heat cycle, this is synonymous with having reached sexual maturity. In general, dogs experience two cycles per year. During these periods, they undergo various physiological and hormonal changes which can reflect in their behavior. Some dogs may appear sadder during...

A runny nose for a dog does not necessarily mean they have a health problem. It could mean something as small as a humid room or even being excited to see you. However, a runny nose accompanied by mucus that is thick, green, yellow or smelly can mean a serious health problem. It could be a sign of infection,...

Any bloody discharge from a dog's vagina can cause concern in their guardian. It is important to note that a sexually intact female dog will bleed from her privates curing her heat cycle, although it should not be profuse. This should not be the case if they have been spayed. It is much less likely for...

Eye problems in our dogs can be difficult to notice or examine because it is normal for a dog to close their eyes when we want to look at them, making it difficult for us to spot the problem. Therefore if if you notice excess scratching, discharge or any other discomfort it is very important to take your...

Gastritis is one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases among domestic felines. It is characterized by an inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which can be acute or chronic. Gastritis can affect cats of all ages, whether they are mestizos or of a defined breed. However it is more common in felines...

Unfortunately, oral diseases in cats are more common than we'd like to be. This is especially so in older adult cats. The threat to their oral health can mean potential discomfort and infection, affecting their overall health more than we may think. While the food cats eat can give them a somewhat odorous...

Blueberries are fruits born through vines or perennial dwarf shrubs belonging to the genus Vaccinium. These plants are grown in the colder regions of both hemispheres. Historically, blueberries have been used as a natural remedy for urinary infections and also for the preparation of jams, juices and delicious...

If your dog bleeds from anywhere, we need to ensure we discover the reason. While a thorn in a paw needs attention, it is not as concerning a symptom as throwing up blood. Although it is possible for a dog to throw up blood and act normal, it is usually concurrent with other symptoms which can help...

The reason your cat has patches of hair missing from their coat is that something is wrong physically or mentally. A cat's hair is a signifier of their well-being. A healthy cat will have a thick and lustrous coat (excluding naturally hairless cats), an unhealthy cat will lose not only their shine, but...

Is your dog struggling to keep balanced or appears to be uncoordinated? Is your dog showing symptoms of head tilting, tremors or vomiting? If so, your pup is most likely suffering from what is known as Ataxia. Ataxia in dogs is a vestibular disease caused by injuries of the proprioceptive sensibility...

Kidney failure in cats is an unfortunately common disorder. This is especially the case with older cats. Another term for this condition is renal failure and, while it may have different causes, they all amount to the same thing. Your kidneys no longer function properly. This can be a chronic disease...