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physical examinations


The importance of routine physical exams cannot be overlooked. This veterinary performed procedure is valuable to both the cat and the owner. Problems can be discovered during a physical exam even in apparently healthy cats. The fi ndings of the examination give the veterinarian the necessary information to assess your cat’s health status. Your veterinarian will then make recommendations for any required treatment and any preventive health care procedures such as vaccination.


vaccination can prevent these diseases


Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR) A common respiratory infection of cats which can be fatal in kittens. Sneezing, decreased appetite and fever, followed by a thick discharge from the eyes and nose are often observed.


Calicivirus (FCV) An upper respiratory infection of cats with sings similar to FVR. In addition ulcers may be seen on the tongue and in the mouth. FVR and FCV account for up to 90% of all respiratory infections in cats.


Panleukopenia (FPL) A widespread and potentially fatal disease which may cause a sudden onset of sever vomiting and diarrhoea, it is especially dangerous in kittens but fatalities can occur in adults.


Pneumonitis Chlamydia (FPN) Another common respiratory infection in cats producing sneezing, fever and a thick discharge from the eyes. Chlamydial infection may be associated with the development of more serious bacterial complications.


Leukemia (FeLV) Infection with this virus can cause serious disease and death in cats. The virus decreases the ability of the immune system to respond to infection and may lead to the development of different types of cancer, FeLV is passed from cat to cat by direct contact, so outside cats and dogs in multi-cat households are at especially high risk. It is not contagious to people.


Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) The most dramatic sign of infectious peritonitis (FIP) is an enlarged fl uid fi lled abdomen. Cats may also show neurological signs or eye infl ammation.


Rabies A fatal viral infection of the central nervous system that can affect all mammals including humans. The virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Routine vaccination is the key to controlling this dreadful disease.


Lyme Disease - Lyme disease is one of the most common tick-transmitted diseases in the world. Dominant clinical feature in dogs is recurrent lameness due to infl ammation of the joints. There may also be a lack of appetite and depression.


Leptospirosis - Fever is present in the early stage. Other signs are loss of appetite for several days, vomiting, lethargy, depression, muscle pain, and sometimes diarrhea or blood in the urine. Leptospirosis affects the kidneys and/or the liver.


Kennel Cough (Bordetella/Tracheobronchitis) - Kennel cough, the common name that is given to infectious canine tracheobronchitis, is a very highly contagious respiratory disease among dogs. This disease is found throughout the world and is also referred to as tracheobronchitis and Bordetella.


Canine Parvovirus - Infection is both serious and widespread in dogs. Signs, which include severe vomiting and diarrhea with blood, result from the virus damaging the gastrointestinal tract. Death in as early as 48 to 72 hours can occur in some dogs, although sudden death can also occur. This virus is very resistant in the environment and is easily carried around on people’s shoes and other objects, leading to virus transfer. For this reason, even indoor hi-rise apartment dogs that never go out require protection. Vaccination is the most effective protective strategy for all dogs, young and old.


Canine Distemper This disease causes respiratory, digestive, and nervous system problems and can be fatal in about half of unvaccinated dogs. Some dogs that acquire the virus show no signs or very mild signs, but can easily infect other susceptible dogs.


Infectious Canine Hepatitis This virus can cause liver failure, eye damage, respiratory problems, and can be fatal. Commonly encountered clinical signs are vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and, occasionally, coughing.


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