Conditions Treated
Learn more about the conditions our veterinarian treats.
Conditions Treated
You love your pets and want to give them the best care, but you may not always know when to bring them to a veterinarian. Our veterinarian at Paradise Animal Hospital wants every pet owner in Augusta, GA, to have the information they need related to pet care. Many of our clients want to know about the most common conditions treated in dogs and cats and what signs and symptoms they should look out for.
Common Conditions We Treat in Dogs and Cats:
Allergies (dermatitis)
Allergies may be caused by something your pets come into contact with or something they eat. In animals, allergies often present as dermatitis. They might have irritated red skin all over or concentrated in one area (hot spots). They will feel itchy and will scratch or chew at their skin and paws.
Ear infections
Ear infections are common in dogs and cats, especially breeds that have long, floppy ears. Look for ears that are red, itchy, or have smelly brownish discharge. Bacteria, viruses, mites, and fungus can all cause ear infections. Your vet will take a swab to determine the right treatment.
Dental disease
Just like people, animals suffer from dental diseases like tooth abscesses and gum disease. Regular cleanings will prevent most dental problems. It is important to treat dental problems quickly because they can have a negative impact on your pet’s overall health. Bad breath, yellow/brown build-up on teeth, and difficulty chewing are all signs of dental problems in dogs and cats.
Upset stomach
Vomiting and diarrhea in pets can be caused by several things. They may have eaten something they shouldn’t have, or it might be a sign of an underlying disease of the bowel or intestines. If your dog or cat is having stomach problems, call your vet to talk about what you should do next.
Urinary tract infections (cystitis)
Infections of the urinary tract and bladder are caused by bacteria and are treated with antibiotics. You may notice your pets urinating more than normal but releasing only a small amount of urine each time. They may also have leaks and accidents in the house where they normally don’t. Urinary tract infections are painful and can become worse if left untreated. If you think your pet has a urinary tract infection, offer plenty of water and call Paradise Animal Hospital as soon as possible.
Conditions We Commonly Treat in Dogs:
Anal gland expression
Many dogs come to us because they have problems emptying their anal glands. These glands usually get emptied when your dog defecates, but when these glands don’t empty properly, they can cause pain and become infected. Dietary changes and manual expression can help dogs with anal gland issues. If your dog is scooting his bottom on the floor or licking excessively, he may have anal gland problems.
Arthritis
As dogs age, they sometimes experience pain in their joints and hips. Large dogs are especially prone to developing arthritis and hip dysplasia. You may notice a decrease in activity or hesitancy to climb stairs or go outside. Your dogs may even whine when they get up or move too much. There are pain management drugs for dogs that can help them feel more comfortable. If you think your dog is in pain, let us know so we can examine them and create a plan to help.
Some Common Conditions We See in Cats Are:
Diabetes
Cats are prone to diabetes mellitus (type 2 diabetes). Just like in humans, untreated diabetes can lead to severe health problems. Call us if you notice your cat urinates more often, is extra thirsty, eats too much, is lethargic, or has a poor coat. Feline diabetes is treated with diet, exercise, and insulin if needed.
Renal Disease
Kidney disease in cats may be chronic or can be caused by ingesting toxins (often flowers and other plants). If caught early, renal disease can be managed. Signs of kidney disease in cats (and dogs) include muscle decrease, increased urination, lethargy, and vomiting. Kidney disease is very serious. If you suspect your pet has kidney disease, call your veterinarian right away.
Can Paradise Animal Hospital care for all of my pet’s medical needs?
Yes! We provide comprehensive veterinary services for pets in Augusta, GA. Paradise Animal Hospital offers care when your pets are sick and when they are healthy. We provide routine services like vaccines and dental care and can also provide surgery and emergency care. If you have questions about your pet’s health or want to make an appointment for a routine exam, our friendly team at Paradise Animal Hospital can help. Call us to schedule an appointment today!