Diseases & conditions

Hyperthyroidism is a common disease of older cats and a rare but serious condition in dogs, usually resulting from a malignant thyroid tumour. The condition is characterised by an increase in production of thyroid hormones from the thyroid glands, which are situated in the neck.

A tapeworm is a parasite; a long worm that attaches itself to your dog or cat’s intestines using a system of suckers or muscular grooves.

Roundworms, also commonly referred to as ‘worms’ are an extremely common parasitic worm found in both cats and dogs.

Mange or demodex is an irritating skin disease, caused by parasitic mites, that is common in both cats and dogs. Bald patches are a common, especially on the elbows, front legs, mouth and around the eyes.

Heartworms are long, parasitic worms that live and grow to great lengths in an animal’s heart and lungs.

Pancreatitis in dogs or canine pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is an important part of the digestive system as it produces the enzymes needed to digest food properly.

Hyperadrenocorticism, or Cushing’s disease, is one of the most common endocrine disorders that affects dogs.

Hyperadrenocorticism (more commonly known as Cushing’s disease) is a condition which causes excessive production of the hormone cortisol by the adrenal glands (situated in the belly, near the kidneys). The disease seldom affects cats and is more common in dogs, especially young dogs.

Addison’s disease is a deficiency of cortisol (a hormone produced by the adrenal gland) or aldosterone (a steroid produced by the adrenal gland).

The skin is the largest and most extensive organ of the body, comprising 12 to 24% of a dog’s weight, depending on its species, size and age. The state of health of the animal, as well as the presence of illness, can be indicated by the skin.

What you need to know about allergies in dogs.

Animals can get wounded in many ways, and different wounds require different treatments. They may include puncture wounds, abrasions or lacerations.