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  • Cushing’s Disease in Dogs and Cats

    Cushing’s disease, also called hyperadrenocorticism, happens when the body is exposed to too much cortisol for too long. In pets, this condition is much more common in dogs than in cats, and most naturally occurring cases are caused either by a pituitary tumor that stimulates excess cortisol production or by an adrenal tumor that produces cortisol directly.

    What Cushing’s Disease Means

    Cortisol is a normal hormone that helps the body respond to stress and regulate metabolism, but excessive amounts over time can affect many organs and body systems. In dogs and cats, veterinarians usually divide Cushing’s syndrome into pituitary-dependent disease, which accounts for about 80% to 85% of reported cases, and adrenal-dependent disease, which accounts for about 10% to 15% of cases. In dogs, naturally occurring Cushing’s syndrome is most often ACTH-dependent and usually caused by a pituitary tumor, while exogenous steroid use can also cause iatrogenic disease (e.g. a patient being on a corticosteroid such as prednisolone for too long).

    Which Pets Are Affected

    Cushing’s syndrome tends to occur in middle-aged to older animals. It can affect any breed or size of dog, although adrenal-dependent disease tends to be seen more often in larger dogs and many pituitary-dependent cases are reported in small breeds. Cats can develop Cushing’s disease too, but it is an infrequent diagnosis and most feline cases are also pituitary-dependent.

    Common Signs in Dogs

    In dogs, the most common signs include drinking more water, urinating more, eating more, a pot-bellied or pendulous abdomen, panting, muscle wasting, and skin or coat changes such as hair loss, thin skin, or recurring skin infections. Many affected dogs also have systemic hypertension. Because these signs can develop gradually, owners sometimes mistake them for normal aging and do not realize the pattern points to an endocrine disorder.

    Common Signs in Cats

    In cats, Cushing’s disease is rare and often occurs along with diabetes mellitus that is difficult to regulate. One of the most distinctive feline features is markedly thin, fragile skin that can tear easily, sometimes called feline fragile skin syndrome. Cats may also show increased thirst and urination, but these signs are often influenced by concurrent diabetes.

    How Veterinarians Diagnose It

    Diagnosis starts with the pet’s history, physical examination, and routine laboratory testing, but endocrine testing is usually needed to confirm the disease. In dogs, the low-dose dexamethasone suppression test is considered the screening test of choice because of its high sensitivity, and in many cases it can also help distinguish pituitary-dependent from adrenal-dependent disease. Abdominal ultrasound or CT is also important because imaging helps identify whether both adrenal glands look symmetrically enlarged, which supports pituitary-dependent disease, or whether a unilateral adrenal mass is present, which supports adrenal-dependent disease.

    In cats, diagnosis can be more challenging because routine laboratory abnormalities are less consistent and many cats have other illnesses at the same time. The low-dose dexamethasone suppression test is considered the most reliable diagnostic test in cats, and cats require a higher dexamethasone dose than dogs for that test. AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) also notes that the ACTH stimulation test is not recommended as a diagnostic tool in cats because its sensitivity for feline hyperadrenocorticism is poor. The ACTH stimulation test is a lab test often used to diagnose both Cushing’s disease and Addison’s disease.

    Treatment Options

    Treatment depends on the cause of the disease and the overall health of the pet. For adrenal-dependent disease, adrenalectomy, or surgical removal of the affected adrenal gland, is considered the treatment of choice, although case selection is important because perioperative risk can be significant. When surgery is not possible, medical management may still help, and in dogs both trilostane and mitotane have been used successfully in some cases.

    For canine pituitary-dependent Cushing’s disease, medication is commonly used to control cortisol production and improve quality of life. In cats, medical therapy is often less predictable and response to trilostane or mitotane is generally poorer than in dogs. Because of these differences, long-term plans for cats usually require especially close monitoring and discussion with a veterinarian or veterinary internal medicine specialist.

    Monitoring and Follow-Up

    Cushing’s disease is usually managed over time rather than fixed with a single visit. Pets receiving treatment need follow-up examinations, repeat laboratory testing, and dose adjustments to balance symptom control with the risk of suppressing cortisol too much. Owners should promptly report vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, weakness, collapse, or sudden lethargy, because these signs may indicate complications or overtreatment and need veterinary attention.  The cortisol levels getting too low from the medication can induce a condition called Addison’s disease.

    Living With a Pet That Has Cushing’s Disease

    Many dogs with Cushing’s disease can enjoy a good quality of life when the condition is recognized, treated appropriately, and monitored carefully. Cats can be more medically complex, especially when diabetes and fragile skin are also present, but thoughtful case management can still improve comfort and daily function. The most helpful step for pet owners is early veterinary evaluation when a pet develops persistent increased thirst, increased urination, appetite changes, panting, abdominal enlargement, or unexplained skin changes.

    When to Call Your Veterinarian Right Away

    Contact a veterinarian promptly if a pet with suspected or diagnosed Cushing’s disease develops sudden weakness, collapse, severe vomiting or diarrhea, stops eating, has labored breathing, or develops skin tears or wounds. Cats with fragile skin should be handled gently and seen quickly if any tearing or self-trauma occurs. Early attention can help prevent complications and allows treatment plans to be adjusted before the pet becomes seriously ill.

  • Periodontal Disease

    Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common and serious health issue affecting dogs and cats. It’s an inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss and even systemic health problems if left untreated. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and implementing preventive measures are crucial for maintaining your pet’s oral health and overall well-being.

    Causes of Periodontal Disease

    Periodontal disease begins with the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth, forming plaque. When plaque is not removed through regular brushing, it hardens into tartar (calculus). Tartar provides a rough surface for more plaque to accumulate, creating a vicious cycle. The bacteria in plaque and tartar produce toxins that irritate and inflame the gums (gingivitis). Over time, this inflammation can damage the tissues that support the teeth, leading to periodontitis, the advanced stage of periodontal disease.

    Key contributing factors include:

    • Poor oral hygiene: Lack of regular teeth brushing allows plaque and tartar to build up.
    • Diet: Soft, sticky foods can contribute to plaque formation more than dry kibble.
    • Age: Older pets are more likely to develop periodontal disease due to years of plaque

    accumulation.

    • Breed: Smaller breeds and brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds are often predisposed to periodontal disease due to crowded teeth.
    • Genetics: Some pets may be genetically predisposed to developing periodontal disease.
    • Underlying health conditions: Certain diseases, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of periodontal disease.

    Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

    Recognizing the symptoms of periodontal disease early is vital for prompt treatment. Common signs include:

    • Bad breath (halitosis): Often the first and most noticeable sign.
    • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums: Indicates inflammation and infection.
    • Excessive drooling: Can be a sign of oral discomfort.
    • Difficulty chewing or reluctance to eat: Suggests pain in the mouth.
    • Loose teeth: Indicates advanced periodontal disease and bone loss.
    • Receding gums: Exposes the roots of the teeth.
    • Pawing at the face or mouth: A sign of irritation or pain.
    • Nasal discharge or sneezing: Can occur if the infection spreads to the nasal passages (more common in advanced cases).

    Dogs are more prone to showing symptoms like excessive drooling due to their larger mouth size.

    Cats often hide pain, so subtle changes in eating habits or grooming may be the only noticeable signs. Look out for them eating slower, or preferring soft foods over hard.

    Prevention of Periodontal Disease

    Prevention is always better (and cheaper!) than cure. The cornerstone of preventing periodontal

    disease is good oral hygiene.

    • Regular teeth brushing: Ideally, brush your pet’s teeth daily using a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Human toothpaste contains ingredients that are harmful to pets.
    • Dental diets: Certain specially formulated diets can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup through mechanical action.
    • Dental chews and toys: Some chews and toys are designed to promote oral hygiene by scraping away plaque and tartar. Choose safe and appropriate chews to avoid choking hazards.
    • Professional dental cleanings: Regular veterinary dental check-ups and cleanings under anesthesia are essential for removing tartar and assessing the health of the teeth and gums. Your vet will recommend a cleaning schedule based on your pet’s individual needs.

    See the Recommended Products page for a list of VOHC (veterinary oral health council) approved dental treats and chews.

    Treatment Options

    Treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of the condition. Common treatment

    options include:

    • Professional dental cleaning (prophylaxis): This involves scaling and polishing the teeth

    under anesthesia to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gum line. In some cases,

    dental X-rays may be taken to assess the extent of bone loss.

    • Tooth extraction: Severely affected teeth with significant bone loss may need to be extracted.
    • Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to control infection.
    • Pain management: Pain medication may be necessary to relieve discomfort.
    • Advanced treatments: In some cases, more advanced treatments like root canal therapy or

    guided tissue regeneration may be recommended by a veterinary dentist.

    Summary

    Periodontal disease is a prevalent issue in both dogs and cats, stemming from plaque and tartar accumulation. Early symptoms include bad breath and inflamed gums, progressing to tooth loss and potential systemic health issues if untreated. Prevention relies on regular teeth brushing, dental diets, and professional cleanings. Treatment options range from dental cleaning to tooth extraction, depending on the severity. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and taking proactive steps, pet owners can significantly improve their companion animals’ oral health and overall quality of life.

    © vetcareinco.com

    Severe periodontal disease

  • Leptospirosis

    Leptospirosis is a serious, zoonotic (contagious to people) bacterial disease that affects dogs, people, and many other animals, most often causing kidney and liver damage in dogs.

    What leptospirosis is

    Leptospirosis is caused by spiral‑shaped bacteria called Leptospira that live in the kidneys of infected animals and are shed in urine. The bacteria survive for weeks to months in moist soil and standing water, so dogs are usually infected when they drink, swim in, or walk through contaminated water or mud and then lick themselves. Because many wild mammals (especially rodents and raccoons) can carry the bacteria without looking sick, suburban and urban dogs are also at risk, not just farm or hunting dogs.

    How dogs get infected

    Infection typically happens when Leptospira enter the body through:

    • Small cuts or abrasions in the skin
    • Mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth)
    • Drinking contaminated water

    Once inside, the bacteria spread via the bloodstream and settle mostly in the kidneys and sometimes the liver and lungs. Dogs can start shedding the bacteria in urine before they look ill, which is why an apparently healthy but infected dog can pose a risk to other animals and to people.

    Symptoms in dogs

    Leptospirosis has a wide range of presentations, from very mild to rapidly fatal. Common signs include:

    • Lethargy, fever, stiffness, and muscle pain
    • Vomiting, diarrhea, poor appetite, abdominal pain
    • Increased or decreased urination and thirst
    • Jaundice (yellow gums/eyes) if the liver is affected
    • Red spots or bruising on gums or skin, nosebleeds, or blood in stool or vomit
    • Difficulty breathing or coughing if the lungs are involved
    • Dark colored urine

    In many cases, the first clear problem is acute kidney injury: the dog may drink and urinate excessively at first, then progress to very little or no urine output, with worsening vomiting and weakness. Any sudden, flu‑like illness in a dog with vomiting and changes in urination should be treated as an emergency.

    Diagnosis

    Veterinarians diagnose leptospirosis using a combination of:

    • Physical exam and history (especially recent exposure to ponds, puddles, wildlife, or flooded areas)
    • Blood tests to look for kidney and liver damage and electrolyte changes
    • Urinalysis to check concentration, protein, blood, and the presence of bacteria
    • Specific leptospirosis tests, such as:
      • PCR (detects Leptospira DNA in blood or urine, often positive early in disease)
      • MAT (microscopic agglutination test) antibody titers, usually done in paired samples 1–2 weeks apart to show a rising titer

    Because waiting for confirmatory tests can take days, vets usually begin treatment as soon as leptospirosis is strongly suspected.

    Treatment

    Treatment for leptospirosis has two main pillars: antibiotics to clear the bacteria and intensive supportive care to protect organs.

    • Antibiotics:
      • A penicillin‑type antibiotic is commonly started early to control the acute bloodstream infection.
      • Doxycycline is typically given for at least 2 weeks to clear the bacteria from the kidneys and stop long‑term shedding.
    • Supportive care:
      • Intravenous fluids to correct dehydration, support the kidneys, and balance electrolytes
      • Antiemetics for vomiting, pain medication, and stomach/intestinal protectants
      • Liver support medications if there is liver damage
      • In severe kidney failure, dialysis (hemodialysis or continuous renal replacement therapy) may be needed in specialty centers

    With rapid diagnosis and aggressive therapy, many dogs recover, but some are left with reduced kidney function, and severely affected dogs can die despite treatment.

    Prognosis

    Outcome depends on:

    • How early treatment starts
    • How severely the kidneys, liver, or lungs are damaged
    • Whether dialysis is available if needed

    Dogs treated in the early stages and with only mild organ changes often recover fully. Dogs with severe kidney failure, significant jaundice, or lung hemorrhage have a guarded to poor prognosis. Even recovered dogs may need long‑term kidney‑friendly diets and regular monitoring.

    Risk to humans

    Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can infect people. People can become infected by:

    • Contact with urine from an infected dog (especially cleaning up accidents without gloves)
    • Contact with contaminated water, soil, or bedding
    • Exposure of broken skin, eyes, nose, or mouth to contaminated material

    Household members should:

    • Wear gloves when cleaning urine or soiled bedding
    • Use disinfectant on contaminated surfaces
    • Wash hands thoroughly after handling the dog or its waste
    • Avoid letting the dog lick their face, especially while the dog is acutely ill

    If anyone in the household develops flu‑like symptoms, jaundice, or severe headache after a dog is diagnosed with leptospirosis, they should see a physician promptly and mention the dog’s illness.

    Prevention in dogs

    Prevention focuses on both vaccination and environmental management.

    • Vaccination:
      • Modern leptospirosis vaccines for dogs cover several of the common serovars (strains) most likely to cause disease.
      • They are typically given yearly (or more often in very high‑risk areas), often combined with other core vaccines.
      • Vaccination greatly reduces the risk of severe disease, although no vaccine covers every possible strain.
    • Environmental and lifestyle measures:
      • Avoid letting dogs drink from or swim in stagnant or slow‑moving water such as puddles, ditches, and small ponds, particularly in warm, wet seasons.
      • Discourage wildlife and rodents around the home by securing trash, removing food sources, and cleaning up spilled birdseed or pet food.
      • Keep dogs on leash in high‑risk areas so they are less likely to wade in unknown water sources or investigate rodent‑infested spots.
      • For farm, hunting, or working dogs, discuss a tailored prevention plan with a veterinarian, as their exposures are often higher.

    Leptospirosis in cats

    Leptospirosis in cats is much more rare than in dogs but can have similar symptoms.  It is now believed it can play a role in chronic kidney disease in cats.  Outdoor cats that hunt are at an increased risk.  Leptospirosis in cats is treated similarly to dogs.  There is no vaccine for cats so keeping cats indoors is the best way to prevent infection.

    When to call the vet

    You should contact a veterinarian urgently if your dog:

    • Becomes suddenly very lethargic 
    • Has vomiting and diarrhea plus changes in drinking or urination
    • Develops yellow gums or eyes
    • Has recently had exposure to floodwater, ponds, or heavy rodent activity and now seems sick

    Early treatment can be the difference between a full recovery and life‑threatening organ failure.

    © vetcareinfo.com

  • Osteoarthritis in Dogs and Cats

    WHEN EVERY STEP HURTS: UNDERSTANDING OSTEOARTHRITIS IN YOUR DOG OR CAT

    One of the most common — and most overlooked — conditions affecting our aging companions, explained for the people who love them most.

    Your dog used to bound up the stairs without a second thought. Your cat used to leap onto the windowsill as though gravity was optional. Now there’s a hesitation — a wince, a slow creep, a reluctance that wasn’t there before. Osteoarthritis might be why.

    Osteoarthritis (OA), also called degenerative joint disease, is the single most common musculoskeletal condition in both dogs and cats. It affects an estimated 20% of adult dogs and possibly 40% or more of cats over the age of ten — numbers that should make every pet owner pay attention. Yet because animals are wired to hide pain (a survival instinct inherited from their wild ancestors), OA often progresses quietly for months or years before anyone notices.

    The good news: once you know what to look for, there’s a great deal you and your veterinarian can do together to improve your pet’s comfort and quality of life.

    WHAT EXACTLY IS OSTEOARTHRITIS?

    Healthy joints are cushioned by a layer of smooth, slick cartilage that allows bones to glide past each other almost frictionlessly. Synovial fluid — a thick liquid produced by the joint lining — acts as a lubricant and shock absorber on top of that.

    In osteoarthritis, that cartilage begins to break down. The process is gradual but relentless: the surface becomes rough and pitted, the synovial fluid loses its protective properties, and the underlying bone starts to change shape in response to the abnormal stress. The joint lining becomes inflamed. Bone spurs (osteophytes) can form. Eventually, in severe cases, bone may rub against bone.

    This is a progressive, chronic condition — meaning it cannot be reversed, but it absolutely can be managed. The goal of treatment is not a cure but a return to comfort.

    Did you know: OA is not just a disease of old age, though aging is the biggest risk factor. Large and giant breed dogs are disproportionately affected, and pets with prior joint injuries, hip or elbow dysplasia, or a history of obesity are at significantly higher risk — sometimes developing OA as young adults.

    SPOTTING THE SIGNS: DOGS VS. CATS

    This is where it gets tricky. Dogs and cats express pain very differently, and cats in particular are so good at concealing discomfort that even attentive owners are often blindsided by the diagnosis.

    In dogs, watch for:

    • Stiffness after rest, especially in the morning
    • Reluctance to climb stairs or jump into the car
    • Visible lameness or “bunny-hopping” gait
    • Swollen or warm joints
    • Licking, chewing, or guarding a joint
    • Reduced enthusiasm for walks or play
    • Muscle wasting in the affected limb
    • Irritability when touched or petted

    In cats, watch for:

    • Jumping less high, or refusing to jump at all
    • Difficulty using — or eliminating outside — the litter box
    • Reduced grooming or unkempt, matted coat
    • Increased hiding or withdrawal
    • Over-grooming or hair loss above a joint
    • Changes in sleep location (lower surfaces)
    • Decreased appetite or activity
    • Unusual aggression when handled

    Important: Cats rarely limp overtly from OA. A limping cat is relatively uncommon — but a cat in significant arthritic pain is not. Behavioral and lifestyle changes are often the only clues. If your cat seems “just getting old,” bring it up with your vet; that phrase describes many arthritic cats.

    GETTING A DIAGNOSIS

    There is no single blood test for OA. Diagnosis is based on a combination of a thorough physical examination (including manipulation of each joint to assess range of motion, pain response, and swelling), your observations at home, and X-rays. X-rays can show joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and other characteristic changes — but it’s worth knowing that the severity visible on X-ray doesn’t always match the severity of pain. A pet with mild radiographic changes can be in significant discomfort, and vice versa.

    For cats especially, your vet may ask detailed questions about behavior at home — videos you’ve taken of your cat’s movements and daily routine can be incredibly helpful. Some clinics use validated pain-scoring questionnaires designed specifically for cats and dogs with chronic pain.

    TREATMENT: BUILDING A MANAGEMENT PLAN

    OA management is not a single pill — it’s a layered, individualized approach that combines medication, physical support, weight management, and lifestyle adjustments. The most effective plans are built collaboratively with your veterinarian and adapted as your pet’s needs change over time.

    Medications your vet may discuss:

    NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs): The most commonly prescribed class for OA pain in dogs. Veterinary-specific NSAIDs like carprofen, meloxicam, grapiprant, and others reduce joint inflammation and pain effectively. They require regular blood monitoring and should never be combined. Cats can use meloxicam but require very careful dosing; feline NSAID options are more limited than for dogs.

    Monoclonal antibody therapies: A newer class — nerve growth factor (NGF) inhibitors given by injection once monthly. Librela (bedinvetmab) is licensed for dogs and Solensia (frunevetmab) for cats. These target a specific pain-signaling pathway and are proving very effective, particularly for cats where NSAID options are more restricted.

    Joint supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids (particularly EPA and DHA from fish oil) have the best evidence base for reducing joint inflammation. Glucosamine and chondroitin are widely used and generally safe; evidence is mixed but some pets respond well. These are adjuncts, not replacements for prescription therapy.

    Gabapentin / amantadine: Used for nerve pain and “wind-up” — the process by which the nervous system becomes sensitized to pain signals over time. Often added to multi-modal plans for pets with moderate to severe OA, or those who don’t fully respond to NSAIDs alone.

    Polysulfated glycosaminoglycan injections (Adequan): Given as a series of injections, this compound is thought to help protect and support remaining cartilage. Commonly used as part of early management protocols, particularly in dogs.

    ⚠ Never give these to your pet: ibuprofen (Advil/Nurofen), naproxen (Aleve), aspirin, acetaminophen/paracetamol, or any human NSAID. Human pain medications are frequently toxic — sometimes fatally so — to both dogs and cats. Always consult your vet before giving anything.

    Physical therapies worth asking about:

    Veterinary physiotherapy (also called rehabilitation therapy) is an expanding field with real benefits for arthritic pets. Hydrotherapy (swimming or underwater treadmill) is particularly valuable — the buoyancy of water allows joints to move without bearing full body weight, building muscle and improving mobility without pain. Laser therapy, acupuncture, and massage are used at many clinics and can complement medication well.

    THE WEIGHT CONVERSATION

    This one matters enormously. Excess body weight is one of the most significant modifiable risk factors for OA severity. Every extra kilogram places dramatically increased mechanical stress on joints — particularly hips, knees, and elbows. Studies in dogs have shown that lean body condition can delay the onset of OA in dogs predisposed to hip dysplasia by years, and substantially reduce pain scores in dogs already diagnosed.

    Many vets estimate that between 40–60% of pet dogs in the UK and US are overweight or obese. If your vet mentions weight, it isn’t a judgment — it’s one of the most genuinely helpful interventions available, and it works.

    Practical tip: You should be able to feel (not see) your pet’s ribs with light finger pressure, with a thin layer of fat over them. If you have to press firmly to feel ribs, or can’t feel them at all, that’s a signal to discuss weight management with your vet.

    MAKING HOME A MORE COMFORTABLE PLACE

    Simple environmental modifications can make a surprising difference to daily comfort:

    • Thick, supportive orthopedic bedding placed at floor level
    • Pet ramps or steps to sofas, beds, and favorite spots
    • Non-slip mats on hard flooring (tiles, wood, laminate)
    • Shorter, more frequent walks for dogs rather than long ones
    • Low-sided litter tray for cats with hip or spinal OA
    • Raised food and water bowls for dogs with neck or shoulder pain

    For cats, think vertically: rearranging furniture so they can access their preferred heights by stepping rather than jumping can preserve independence and reduce frustration. Keeping warm is also helpful — many arthritic pets are more comfortable in mild temperatures and may gravitate toward warm spots instinctively.

    EXERCISE: LESS IS NOT ALWAYS MORE

    A common misconception is that rest is best for an arthritic pet. In reality, appropriate, low-impact exercise is one of the best things for arthritic joints. Movement maintains muscle mass (which supports and stabilizes joints), prevents stiffness, and supports a healthy weight. “Appropriate” is the key word: the aim is gentle, consistent activity rather than sporadic bursts.

    For dogs, this means regular short walks at a comfortable pace — the same route at the same time each day is often better than varying distances. Swimming, if your dog tolerates it, is excellent. Avoid high-impact activities like jumping, sharp turns, and chasing balls, especially on hard surfaces.

    For cats, encourage gentle play with low-effort toys (a dragging feather wand moved slowly across the floor rather than overhead leaping games). Puzzle feeders that don’t require acrobatics can keep minds sharp and bodies gently moving.

    A pet that moves more comfortably after light activity has warmed up is typical of OA. The “morning stiffness” pattern — worse at rest, better after gentle movement — is classic. This is not a sign that exercise is harmful; it’s a sign the management plan is on the right track.

    MONITORING AND FOLLOW-UP

    OA is a lifelong condition, and treatment needs will change over time. Most vets recommend check-ups every three to six months for pets on ongoing medication — both to assess pain control and to monitor for any side effects. Blood tests are typically recommended every six to twelve months for pets on NSAIDs.

    Between visits, keeping a simple daily journal — or even short phone videos of your pet walking and navigating the home — gives your vet invaluable information. Pain scoring tools designed for home use, like the Helsinki Chronic Pain Index for dogs or the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index for cats, can help you track changes objectively.

    If your pet seems less comfortable despite their current treatment, it’s always worth going back to your vet rather than waiting. Multi-modal pain management — combining two or more complementary approaches — is often far more effective than any single treatment, and there may be options you haven’t tried yet.

    A FINAL WORD

    Caring for a pet with osteoarthritis asks something of us: to pay closer attention, to notice the quiet signals, to become advocates for a companion who cannot tell us where it hurts. It also offers something: the knowledge that with good veterinary care and an attentive home environment, arthritic pets can live genuinely comfortable, happy lives for years after diagnosis.

    The first step is always the same — a conversation with your vet. If anything in this article has made you wonder about your own dog or cat, that conversation is worth having.

    This article is for educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment decisions. Content does not replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    © 2026 vetcareinco.com

  • Dog or Cat Not Acting Right? A Vet-Informed Checklist for What to Watch (and When to Call)

    Dog or Cat Not Acting Right? A Vet-Informed Checklist for What to Watch (and When to Call)

    Start with the basics

    When your pet seems “off,” it’s easy to miss the small details that help your veterinarian figure out what’s going on. This quick checklist helps you observe the right things, decide what’s urgent, and prepare for a more productive vet visit.

    Step 1: Check for emergency red flags

    Seek urgent veterinary care if you notice any of the following:
    • Difficulty breathing, blue/pale gums, or collapse
    • Repeated vomiting with inability to keep water down
    • Seizures, severe weakness, or sudden disorientation
    • Bloated abdomen (especially with unproductive retching)
    • Uncontrolled bleeding or suspected trauma
    • Straining to urinate, crying in the litter box, or producing little/no urine
    • Known or suspected toxin exposure (human meds, rodent bait, chocolate, xylitol, lilies, etc.)

    Step 2: Note the “what, when, and how much”

    Write down (or screenshot) these details before you call:
    • When it started: sudden vs. gradual, and whether it’s getting worse
    • Appetite and water intake: normal, reduced, or increased
    • Bathroom habits: diarrhea, constipation, accidents, straining, or changes in urine volume
    • Vomiting: how many times, what it looked like, and whether food/water stays down
    • Energy level: sleeping more, hiding, reluctance to jump, or exercise intolerance
    • Pain clues: panting, trembling, yelping, guarding the belly, limping

    Step 3: Do a quick at-home check (no special tools)

    These observations can be helpful, but don’t force anything that stresses your pet.
    • Breathing: is it fast, noisy, or labored?
    • Gums: should be pink and moist (very pale, white, blue, or tacky gums are concerning)
    • Hydration: dry gums and sunken eyes can suggest dehydration
    • Temperature: if you have a pet thermometer, note the reading (don’t guess by ear)
    • Mobility: can they stand and walk normally?

    Step 4: Common scenarios and what to do next

    Use these as general guidance while you arrange veterinary advice:
    • Mild diarrhea but acting normal: call your vet for diet guidance and monitoring steps; watch hydration closely.
    • Vomiting once, then normal: monitor and call if it repeats, appetite drops, or your pet seems painful or lethargic.
    • Itching, ear shaking, or skin redness: note where it is, any new foods/treats, and whether there’s odor or discharge.
    • Older pet slowing down: track stiffness, difficulty rising, or changes in stairs/jumping—these details help evaluate arthritis and pain control.

    Step 5: What to bring to your appointment

    • A list of current medications/supplements (with doses)
    • Photos/videos of symptoms (coughing, limping, seizures, breathing effort)
    • Any recent diet changes, new treats, chews, or table scraps
    • Potential exposures (trash, compost, plants, human meds)
    Doctor talking with patients in a hospital

    How VetCareInfo can help

    VetCareInfo publishes clear, vet-informed articles on common dog and cat conditions—what symptoms look like, what questions to ask, and what to discuss with your veterinarian. If you’re looking for practical next steps, browse our Articles index and explore topics like dental health, skin and coat concerns, joint support, and senior pet care. Medical note: This content is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment.