Salmonella in rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and other small mammals is a bacterial infection and can lead to a very sick pet. This bacteria is dangerous to humans so you must use good hygiene while treating him. Salmonella is found in the feces, urine and bedding of infected animals so infection often occurs when a new pet is introduced to the household or your pet is exposed to feces or urine from wild animals. A small mammal infected with salmonella will look unkempt and his coat could be dull. He may experience a loss of appetite, fever and swollen lymph nodes around the neck. Salmonella infection can be diagnosed thought blood and urine testing by a medical professional. The bacteria must run its course but you should offer care to keep your pet comfortable. Your vet may recommend antibiotics for any infections. Learn more from your Poway, CA veterinary clinic. Or schedule an appointment at this site Carmel Mo ... Read more »

A diagnosis of hyperthyroidism can be frightening to a cat owner. However, managing hyperthyroidism is pretty routine. Most cases of hyperthyroidism are controlled through daily oral medication or a gel that is rubbed inside your cat’s ears. Removal of the thyroid may be need in severe cases. And radioiodine therapy is also something to consider for control of hyperthyroidism. If the medication route is recommended for your cat, you must be consistent in administering the medication. Wash your hands after handling this medication so you don’t accidentally dose yourself. Your vet may suggest a change in diet to a high protein one that is easily digested. Since the body quickly absorbs it and your cat will get the most from her diet. Your cat will need periodic testing to ensure that her thyroid levels are at acceptable levels or that she needs an adjustment to her medication. Contact your Poway, CA vet to learn more.

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From time to time you may notice your dog exhibits signs of constipation. These signs may include straining to defecate, hard stools, a lack of diet, anal swelling and even some vomiting. The most common cause of constipation is dehydration so make sure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times. Lack of exercise can cause constipation since exercise helps the digestive tract work more efficiently. There are other causes of constipation that are not so easy to fix such as obstructions from bones or hair or part of a toy. A traumatic injury or other medical injury could cause constipation too. The precise cause of your dog’s constipation can be determined through a physical exam along with blood, stool and urine testing. Your dog may need fluid therapy, removal of the impacted feces and of course, treatment of underlying medical issues. For more information, contact your Poway, CA veterinarian or v ... Read more »

Your guinea pig’s teeth grow continuously throughout his lifetime. Providing your guinea pig with hard vegetables, hay and chewing blocks help wear down the teeth to a normal length. Without this constant gnawing, your pig’s teeth can become overgrown and become misaligned. Tooth issues can also occur if your pig’s diet is insufficient especially a lack of vitamin C. And of course, injury can cause dental issues. If your pig has dental issues, he may have trouble eating and experience pain. He may lose weight. And the misaligned teeth may cut the inside of your pig’s mouth. Check your guinea pig’s mouth and teeth regularly for any sign of dental issues or abnormalities. Ensure that your pig’s diet is adequate and has ample vitamin plus enough hard foods to keep his teeth trim. Contact your 4S Ranch, CA vet to learn more and to evaluate and treat any dental issues. Click on this h ... Read more »

Your cat may be prone to what looks like acne on her chin – blackheads, whiteheads and little red sores. Sometimes it is a grooming issue. Your cat may not clean her chin after eating. Consider wiping her face with a damp cloth. There may also be some excessive oil on her chin from the scent glands located there. Warm, damp compresses can help clear out the pores. Other cats may over-groom and wear the fur off and irritate the skin. Allergies, abrasions, mites and bacterial or fungal infections can cause chin acne as well. Your cat’s chin acne may be resolved by cleaning her up a bit more but often she will need some kind of medical evaluation to what exactly is causing this condition. And then you will need to follow up with medical treatment to help cure it. For more information, click here, or contact your 4S Ranch, CA veterinarian.

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Diabetes is a disease where there is not enough insulin (Type 1) or the body doesn’t use the insulin correctly (Type 2) to allow the body to use glucose and convert it to energy. Dogs can suffer from either type of diabetes. As in people, Type 1 diabetes in dogs requires regular injections of insulin. Type 2 diabetes is more common in older, obese dogs and can be controlled through medication and diet. The liver, kidneys and eyes are at risk if not treated properly so it is important to watch for early signs of diabetes including excessive thirst and urination, extreme hunger and weight loss even while eating regularly. There is a genetic component to diabetes and certain breeds are more susceptible. Diagnosis is determined through analysis of symptoms along with blood and urine testing. Make an appointment with your best veterinary clinic 4S Ranch, CA if your dog exhibits signs of diabetes for evaluation ... Read more »