Listly by April Rose Casiple Semogan
We all love our pets, don’t we? Pets have been a special part of our lives even during the ancient times. They are the ones who are always there for us and they give love back to us in the cutest way possible. We always want what’s best for them and never let anything or anyone harm them; just like how we treat out families. In connection to this, we should also be aware of the diseases that may leave them at the worst situation. Here are the ten life-threatening diseases you should watch out.
Obesity has not only been a common problem faced by the human population but as well for our beloved canine and feline friends. Being obese, your pets are more prone to heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and premature death. Pet obesity is caused by doting pet parents who overfeed and under exercise them.
Heartworm disease is common among dogs and cats. This disease is spread my mosquitoes, which serves as the carrier. The mosquito carries the microscopic versions of the heartworm, called microfilariae from a heartworm infected animal to another animal. Hence, this heartworm grows and develops which can cause significant damage and even death.
Dental diseases should not be disregarded; in fact, it needs immediate attention from veterinarians. Both cats and dogs can develop tartar, cavities and gum problems that requires cleaning. Not only for the sake of providing your pets with good breath but as well as to prevent dangerous heart and kidney conditions that may arise due to dental diseases.
Rabies has been one of the oldest known diseases not only by animals but as well as man. Currently, there are more cases of rabies in cats than in dogs. Rabies is a zoonotic disease that can be passed from pets to people wherein the virus goes undetected for several days or even months. This is a very dangerous disease which causes changes in pet and human behaviors due to its attack in the nervous system.
Pets, especially cats and dogs can develop diabetes as they grow older. Diabetes may affect more than 2% of all cats, and the causes are not fully known. Just like humans, pets can also have either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Treatment for this disease includes: insulin therapy and attention to diet and exercise.
Kidney disease or also known as renal disease is a common findings among cats and dogs especially when they reach senior years. While cats with kidney disease can be treated and kept healthy for several years in most cases, dogs typically deteriorate more quickly. Pets can display various signs and symptoms such as: increased water consumption, blood in urine and diarrhea.
Parvovirus is a terrible disease which is most common in areas with low vaccination rates. It is a highly contagious viral disease which is one of the most common causes of diarrhea in dogs under 6 months of age or those puppies or kittens that haven’t been vaccinated yet.
Cancer is one of the most dangerous diseases that pets can have. In fact, it is the leading cause of death among our feline and canine companions. Various signs and symptoms can be shown by your pets so you have to be very observant. Symptoms such as: lumps and bumps, abnormal odors and evidence of pain. These are only few of the many symptoms that may appear. Many different regimens are used in the treatment of cancer in dogs and cats.
Just like us, our pets can also have hepatitis or inflammation of the liver. Dogs or cats acquire this disease by inhaling or ingesting the virus present in urine, nasal or eye secretions present in infected canines/felines. Vaccination against canine and feline hepatitis is part of the core vaccines that are highly recommended.
Arthritis is a common disease among aging pets. You would notice that they seem slow to rise in the morning, or a bit reluctant to jump up to their favorite spot on the couch. Veterinarians can diagnose different stages of arthritis during a routine exam or though x-rays to determine which joints are inflamed. There is no cure for arthritis, however, there are joint supplements and treatments to keep your pets mobile as long as possible.