Skip to main content

Pet Health Library

Diagnosis

  • This tumour is a disordered and purposeless overgrowth of cells originating from the modified sweat glands of an anal sac.

  • Anorexia is a common problem in snakes but it is not a single disease – it is a sign brought on by many different causes.

  • Antibodies are specialised proteins (immunoglobulins) that circulate in the blood stream. They are produced by a white blood cell called a plasma cell.

  • Cats and dogs are attracted to the sweet taste of ethylene glycol. Many will voluntarily drink antifreeze if it is spilled or leaks on to garage floors or driveways and are more than ready to lick the product from contaminated paws and coats.

  • Atopy was once thought to be caused by an inhaled allergen to which the dog's immune system over reacts. However, although the cause of atopy is still unknown, it is most likely due to contact of the allergic particles directly on the skin.

  • A haematoma is a large blood blister which results from rupture of a small blood vessel with resulting haemorrhage between the skin and cartilage usually on the inner aspect of the ear.

  • Haematoma is a localised collection of blood, usually clotted and can occur anywhere in the body. Bruises can be considered a form of haematoma.

  • Babesiosis is a tick borne disease which causes destruction of red blood cells resulting in anaemia and jaundice. Acutely affected dogs (and cats) appear depressed, weak and are disinclined to eat (anorexic).

  • This slow-growing tumour is a disordered overgrowth of cells of the skin epidermis. It gets its name from its resemblance under the microscope to the basal cell layer of epithelium.

  • It is not unusual for behaviour problems to develop in older pets. Many of the problems have similar causes to those in younger pets.