Keratitis
By Laurie Buckley on June 26, 2009
Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea that can effect one or both eyes. Signs include: discharge, squinting, sensitivity of light, and the appearance of the third eyelid. You may find the cat pawing at her eye. This inflammation is very painful and if left untreated can cause the cat to suffer permanent loss of vision.
Keratitis can be the result of an entropian lesion (where the eyelid rolls inward and the lashes irritate the cornea) or a traumatic injury. Many infectious agents can also be the cause.
The cat should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. Treatment consists of a topical ointment to reduce pain and usually antibiotics as well.
Posted in Cat Health | Tagged eye disorders, keratitis | 1 Response
Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
By Laurie Buckley on May 24, 2009
Feline Calicivirus or FCV is spread by direct contact with eye or nasal discharge and saliva. It may also be spread by coming into contact with the water bowl or litter box of an infected cat.
In the beginning symptoms include nasal and eye discharge, sneezing, and fever. As the disease progresses, drooling will be seen due to the ulceration of the mouth and the tongue. The cat will stop eating, lose weight, and breathing will become more and more difficult.
Treatment will involve the use of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications. The nose and eyes can be kept clear of discharge by using a cotton ball moistened with saline solution or water. On the chapped portions of the nose, a drop of baby oil can be used.
A vaccine is available to help protect your cat against FCV.
Posted in Cat Health | Tagged fcv, feline calicivirus
Otitis
By Laurie Buckley on April 13, 2009
Cats can develop inflammation of the outer ear (otitis externa) from ear mites, bacteria, wax accumulation, or infected wounds. Symptoms include odor, scratching or pawing at the ears, inflammation, head shaking, appearance of exudate, or holding ear flaps at an unusual angle. Treatment consists of cleansing the ear and applying a topical antibiotic medication.
Middle ear (otitis media) inflammation can be caused by bacteria, parasites, foreign bodies, or fungi. Symptoms include lack of balance and tilting of the head. Treatment may include the use of an antifungal medication or antibiotics. Surgery may be required in some cases.
Inner ear infections (otitis interna) are extremely serious and can result in irreversible damage or even death. Signs of an inner ear infection include vomiting, hearing loss, circling, abnormal eye movements, and loss of coordination and balance. Treatment may include the use of antibiotics or antifungal medication.
Posted in Cat Health | Tagged ear disorders, ear infection, otitis
Tapeworms
By Laurie Buckley on March 9, 2009
Tapeworms live in the intestines and are probably the most common parasites seen in adult cats.
Before transmission to the cat, they require an intermediate host during the larval stage. Lice and fleas are common hosts and based on a cat’s constant grooming habits, it’s very probable that at least one flea harboring immature tapeworms will be ingested.
Tapeworms can also be acquired by a cat eating raw meat or raw freshwater fish. Outdoor cats who hunt routinely can also be exposed through their prey.
A tapeworm attaches itself to the intestinal wall by way of suckers and hooks on its head. The body is comprised of segments and each one contains eggs. These segments break off and then are passed out of the body in the cats’ feces. The segments are about a quarter-inch in length and can wriggle by themselves when freshly separated from the worm. You may notice one or two moving segments clinging to the hair around your cat’s anus. When the segments dry, they look similar to grains of rice. These dried segments may be found on your cat’s bedding.
If you happen to notice tapeworm segments, your vet will administer a deworming pill or injection specifically for tapeworms.
It’s important to known that if your cat does have tapeworms, then it more than likely means that there are fleas on her as well. Be sure to combine the deworming with a comprehensive flea control program to prevent a reappearance of the parasite. Even if you don’t notice any tapeworm segments on your cat or in the environment, if there is a significant flea problem, there’s a chance she could also have tapeworms.
Posted in Cat Health | Tagged parasites, tapeworms
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