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Is a Raw Food Diet Good for Dogs?

If dogs could talk, we could solve many of the world’s problems–including a dog’s digestive issues. But instead, pet parents and vets find themselves playing a guessing game. Is the patient vomiting because he ate too much grass? Is that midnight diarrhea because somebody helped themselves to a bunch of pizza crust in the garbage can? Or is it something else?

In 2021, a paper was published on a study involving 7,015 dogs to examine the link between early-life factors like diet and digestive issues (like IBD) reported later in life. Interestingly, researchers found that dogs on a raw diet had a significantly lower risk of developing digestive problems later in life than dogs on a kibble diet.

What Is a Raw Food Diet?

To feed a dog a raw diet, you must provide a variety of foods, so the dog gets the required nutrients to live a healthy life. Commercial pet foods became popular in the 1960s, making it easy to forget that dogs can eat numerous vegetables, fruits, grains, and meats, all of which are essential to a balanced diet.

Advocates for the raw food diet say there’s no need to cook the food you give your dog to eat. Raw food contains more nutrients, and some veterinarians agree that feeding raw food is a good idea as long as there’s no risk for parasites (like with some meats). In that case, cooking the food before putting it in Fido’s bowl is a good idea.

What Makes the Raw Food Diet Good For Dogs?

  1. The Health Benefits: Dogs who eat a raw food diet tend to have healthier skin, smaller tools, cleaner teeth, and higher energy levels. It’s also easier to help dogs maintain a healthy weight on a raw diet than feeding kibble.
  2. No Dog Food Recalls: Pet food recalls happen, but there’s no need to worry about this when feeding a dog a raw food diet. You know what your dog is eating because you buy and prepare the ingredients.
  3. Reduced Risk of Diseases: This could’ve fallen under point one, but it deserves a callout. Why? Some studies show that a raw food diet can help prevent diabetes and reduce the possibility of arthritis in addition to the digestive system benefits discussed earlier. Fewer health issues mean fewer veterinarian bills over the life of your dog.

If you feed your dog a raw diet, you need to know what foods dogs can safely consume. This list of 40 human foods dogs can safely eat is an excellent place to start.

Reap the Raw Benefits

Digestion problems can appear in many different forms, and getting more intentional with diet is often a good first step in mitigating those problems. However, a raw diet can only solve some digestive and gastrointestinal issues. If you are considering switching your dog to a raw diet due to gastrointestinal problems, you should let your veterinarian examine your pup to ensure nothing more serious is going on before making the diet change.

Depending on the root cause of your dog’s digestive issues, your veterinarian may conclude that gastrointestinal surgery is necessary for your dog’s well-being before any recommended diet changes. If that’s the case, this is where Vetrix BioSIS Technology can help. 

Want to learn more? Discover how regenerative medicine can help with gastrointestinal problems and surgery.

With the right balance and proper assessment of any digestive issues, your dog can thrive on a raw food diet.

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How to Provide Superior Wound Care Treatment

BioSIS wound dressing photolarge copyAny veterinarian worth their salt knows that providing superior wound care treatment starts with assessing the overall stability of the animal. Once the patient is stable, the next step is administering first aid for the wound as soon as safely possible. Your treatment should follow the fundamentals of debridement, infection or inflammation control, and moisture balance. Success depends on taking the correct approach and deciding whether to manage the wound as open or closed.

Before considering surgery, veterinarians looking for a more effective wound treatment should explore Healion Amniotic Matrix. The solution is an easy-to-use, sterilized powder that promotes the healing of wound sites.

Provide Superior Wound Care with Healion Wound Matrix

When choosing wound care solutions for your patients, protecting the wound sight from further contamination and trauma is often a top concern. This is where Healion Wound Matrix can help, especially in situations where a wound cannot or should not be closed. Healion is a decellularized amniotic membrane supplied in fine, dry, sterilized white powder form for veterinary use. It leverages the natural healing properties of amnion to modulate inflammation and create an environment conducive to rapid cell migration. All you must do is puff the solution onto the wound bed and cover it with a non-adherent bandage.

Once administered, and as we touched on at the beginning of this post, it’s advised you consider the following four things while caring for your wound patient:

  1. Giving the wound proper support
  2. Maintaining proper moisture levels
  3. Mitigating infection risk
  4. The phases of wound healing

If these four factors aren’t considered when bandaging and monitoring your patient, you might not see the healing you expect. (Remember pain management throughout the phases of recovery, too.)

Healion Wound Matrix serves as a wound care solution where open wound management or delayed wound closure is the best course of action for the patient. Healion is uniquely designed to enable veterinarians to provide superior wound care treatment and is indicated for the management of wounds, including:

 

  • Partial wounds
  • Full-thickness wounds
  • Surgical wounds
  • Trauma wounds
  • Draining wounds

Do You Want to Provide Superior Wound Care Treatment?

It’s time to join top veterinarians using the best regenerative wound care technology and provide your patients with faster and more effective treatment options. Healion Wound Matrix provides an ideal healing environment and flexibility in treating both acute and chronic wounds, and it’s affordable.

Healion is cost-effective and packaged to fit procedural needs. Learn about Healion Wound Matrix pricing (available in 6-pack, 12-pack, and 24-pack options).

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How to Recognize Acetaminophen Toxicity in Cats

veterinary practice

Did you know that acetaminophen, an ordinary human drug often used to control pain and fever, is toxic to cats? Unfortunately, this is a common issue due to pet parents attempting to treat their cat’s pain at home. Or, in some cases, the cat gets into their owner’s medication. Cats can’t efficiently metabolize acetaminophen, which makes them more vulnerable to toxicity. It’s also worth noting that cats develop toxicity at much lower doses than dogs.

What are the signs of acetaminophen toxicity in cats?

Once a cat ingests acetaminophen, signs of toxicity may develop in as few as one to four hours. Acetaminophen can cause:

  • A decrease in the red blood cell’s ability to carry oxygen
  • Red blood cell changes within 4-12 hours
  • Liver damage

As a result, your cat may:

  • Appear depressed or weak
  • Present with rapid breathing or panting
  • Have a high heart rate
  • Have abdominal pain
  • Vomit or drool

Your cat may also stop eating. Additionally, their mucous membranes, such as the gums or tissue around the globe of the eye, may develop a bluish color or chocolate brown color. In some cases, cats with acetaminophen toxicity present with swelling in the face, paws, and limbs several hours after ingesting the drug.

How is acetaminophen toxicity in cats treated?

The most important thing you can do to treat acetaminophen toxicity is never to give your cat acetaminophen or leave pills where your curious cat can get into them. But accidents happen.

Early decontamination and treatment can decrease the risk of severe toxicity. If you know your cat has ingested acetaminophen within the last few hours, please call the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 and take your pet to your veterinarian, where the vet can induce vomiting. Inducing vomiting at home should never be attempted. It can cause severe stomach irritation. Once vomiting is controlled, your veterinarian may administer activated charcoal. Activated charcoal can decrease the absorption of acetaminophen by your cat’s gastrointestinal tract. Again, activated charcoal should only be administered by your vet due to the risk of aspiration into the lungs or life-threatening changes in sodium occurring.

Your cat may be hospitalized based on the amount of acetaminophen it ingested. If that’s the case, your vet may give IV fluids and an antidote for acetaminophen toxicity known as N-acetylcysteine. Your vet may also provide other medications, such as Vitamin C and liver protectants. If liver damage occurs or a decreased ability of the red blood cells to carry oxygen happens, more intensive care will be required.

Follow-up care for acetaminophen toxicity in cats

Most cats must continue medications for several weeks to protect their liver while at home recovering. It would help if you also were prepared that your vet will want to monitor your cat’s liver enzymes for several days or weeks, depending on the severity of the case. Liver enzymes are monitored to understand if any liver damage or scarring will affect long-term liver function in your cat after they’ve recovered.

If your cat may have ingested acetaminophen in the last few hours, please call the Pet Poison Helpline. 

Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison control center based out of Minneapolis, MN, is available 24/7 for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com

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A Step Towards Better Veterinary Care: 3 Trends to Watch in 2023

https://uptickmarketing.com/what-is-geotargeting-why-is-it-important/Veterinary medicine is constantly changing and evolving. We’re thankful for the innovation, but as new technologies and treatments are developed, it impacts how we care for animal patients. Keeping up with the ever-expanding veterinary world can be overwhelming. To make keeping up with the best veterinary care available easier, we’d like to share a short list of three trends to watch in 2023.

Technology

Specifically AI technology. AI is a big trend impacting veterinary medicine as we witness its increased use first-hand. Artificial intelligence may not yet be at a level to assist with surgeries, but it can expedite diagnoses and relegate tedious tasks. Veterinarians embracing AI bots can help free up their veterinary technicians, spending long hours inputting health records, to answer questions and focus on better patient care. AI technology is also helpful for scheduling appointments and automated reminders via text messages, email, and phone calls. Beyond administrative help, more and more veterinary offices are embracing AI to help interpret pet data through EKGs, X-Rays, MRIs, and more.

According to a medical technology survey by Statista, AI in veterinary health care was fully functional by 2021. Hence, the usage of AI in veterinary medicine is growing across a range of applications like imaging, disease predictions, cancer treatments, and radiology. AI Technology empowers veterinarians, pet parents, and the medical community to provide the best possible care to patients.

Synthetic Biology

Synthetic biology involves redesigning or constructing biological entities to carry out desirable biotechnological processes. For example, Vetrix BioSIS is a bioresorbable material that uses an extracellular matrix (ECM) derived from porcine small intestine submucosa (SIS). It replaces and repairs flesh at the wound site by working with the body’s natural healing process.

The ECM works as a biological scaffold for cells to migrate to and regenerate. It’s the perfect environment for cells to reproduce since it’s also made up of cell tissue. It also provides excellent structural support to native cells to form organized tissue. As the cells lay down their collagen, robust and permanent tissue repair occurs. Because ECM is a biomaterial, there’s no foreign material left behind in the patient’s body as natural self-renewal occurs. This also means there’s no calcification, tissue erosion, or encapsulation that synthetic materials can cause.

More opportunities are regularly arising to use synthetic biology in veterinary medicine for wound management, gastrointestinal soft tissue repair, thoracic wall repair, hernia repair, degloving injuries, mass removals, and more.

Cell and Gene Therapies

Cell and gene therapies are used in various approaches to treat disease at the cellular and genetic levels. Most approved cell therapies in the U.S. focus on blood cancers. However, one of the next goals in cell therapy is to improve efficiency by reprogramming cells in vivo — inside their bodies. The medical community is expecting big things in 2023. Meanwhile, the field of gene therapy faces a pivotal year in 2023 that will likely bring new treatments (and challenges). Medical professionals are excited about the progress being made. Still, many are keeping an eye on pricing and its impact on vets and their patients. A lot is happening in the field of cell and gene therapies and we believe it’s worth keeping an eye on.

Vetrix veterinary regenerative medicine solutions enable veterinarians around the world to provide exceptional patient care all year, every year. Learn more about affordable Vetrix technologies.

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KCS in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment, and More

amniotic eye dropsKeratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), often referred to as dry eye, is inflammation of the cornea and surrounding tissues due to inadequate production of tears. Tears are necessary to lubricate the cornea and remove debris or any infectious agents that come in contact with the eye. The tear film is a mixture of mucus, fatty liquid, and water.

Symptoms of KCS in Dogs

Most dogs with KCS will have painful, red, irritated eyes. Squinting and excessive blinking often signal a dog’s mom or dad to get their pet to a veterinary professional for treatment. Additionally, KCS often includes symptoms of thick, yellowish mucous discharge due to the lack of the watery component of the tear film. Corneal ulceration may also be present.

Patients with chronic cases of KCS often present with a history of conjunctivitis, eye injuries, and ulcers. Corneal scarring, hyperpigmentation, usually occurs with cases of KCS and looks like a dark film covering the dog’s eye.

Is A Dog More Likely to Contract KCS Because of Their Breed?

KCS most commonly affects middle-aged to older dogs. It’s more likely to be seen in the following breeds:

  • American Cocker Spaniel
  • Bloodhound
  • Boston Terrier
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
  • English Bulldog
  • English Springer Spaniel
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Miniature Schnauzer
  • Pekingese
  • Pug
  • Samoyed
  • Shih Tzu
  • Yorkshire Terrier

Both eyes are typically affected in dogs with KCS, but one eye may appear worse.

Treatment of KCS in Dogs

There are two main objectives when treating KCS in dogs:

  • Stimulate tear production
  • Replace the tear film and protect the cornea

Tear film replacement and tear production stimulants are often used in combination first. However, Veterinarians manage most KCS cases in dogs with a combination of tear stimulants, tear substitutes, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatories. Surgery for KCS is reserved for dogs who do not respond to medication and are experiencing persistent pain. Secondary bacterial conjunctivitis is common in dogs with KCS due to debris accumulation and a lack of natural antimicrobial tear properties. Additionally, patients often experience much discomfort and pain with KCS and the ulceration that often accompanies it. Anti-inflammatory and antibiotic combinations are helpful for improving comfort and diminishing corneal opacities.

Vetrix created a solution for veterinarians, EyeQ Amniotic Eye Drops, to deliver natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory components alongside traditional therapies when treating KCS. EyeQ is an easy-to-use, non-surgical option for treating corneal defects and ulcers and keeping a dog as comfortable as possible throughout treatment. What’s more, EyeQ allows easy administration for veterinarians and dog owners alike. The medicine comes in a convenient dropper bottle and is available to veterinary professionals in 6-pack, 12-pack, and 24-pack options.

Provide The Best Care for Your Dog

Getting attached to dogs you see regularly (even if they aren’t your dog) is easy. We can all agree that when it comes to treating dogs with KCS, all we want is for the animal to get better. If you’re a Vet who intends to provide the best care for the KCS and ulcer cases you see in dogs, try out a 6-pack of EyeQ for yourself. If you’re not completely satisfied, Vetrix will work with you to return your purchase.

Order Now

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Balancing Care and Cost for Gastrointestinal Surgeries

ultrasound diagnostics in caninesYour furbaby needs gastrointestinal surgery, and you have all kinds of questions. We’re here to discuss how you can prepare and what you need to know.

What Is Gastrointestinal Surgery?

Gastrointestinal surgery is an umbrella term for any surgery involving the stomach or intestines. There are numerous reasons a pet may need gastrointestinal surgery, ranging from blockages and biopsies to twisting stomachs or tumor removals. The exact nature of the gastrointestinal surgery depends on the animal’s individual needs and whether the surgery is planned or performed as an emergency.

How Much Does Gastrointestinal Surgery Cost?

Again, it varies. The cost of gastrointestinal surgery will depend on the following:

  • Type of surgery performed
  • Size of the pet
  • Severity of the condition
  • Time your pet needs to be hospitalized before and after surgery

On average, pet parents should expect a bill anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000. To help you balance the care and cost of gastrointestinal surgery, ask your veterinary team for a cost estimate before the procedure. 

Balancing Care and Cost for Vets and Pet Owners

A veterinary surgeon’s primary concern when a pet needs gastrointestinal surgery isn’t money. It’s helping the patient get better and live a comfortable, happy life. Be bold and ask questions or express concerns. While we must submit payment for services rendered, an excellent veterinary office is committed to:

  • Explaining any gastrointestinal procedure your pet may need
  • The process and what to expect
  • Providing a cost estimate
  • Follow-up and at-home care

Many veterinary offices will work with you to establish a payment plan if necessary. They can also often provide information about pet insurance that will likely cover some gastrointestinal surgery costs. In addition to working out the cost (and payment plan if needed), your vet should also work with you to ensure you understand aftercare instructions while your pet is recovering.

Some things your vet may tell you to do after your pet has had gastrointestinal surgery and finished its hospital stay include:

  • Monitor your pet closely and keep them calm to prevent tearing of sutures
  • Keep your pet’s cone on so they can’t lick or chew their incision as it heals
  • Feed your pet small amounts of bland food and plenty of water as they slowly transition back to their regular diet
  • Administer pain medication as instructed

Gastrointestinal surgeries are often a lifesaving intervention. As a patient, working with a vet dedicated to balancing care and cost makes a big difference in delivering as positive and stress-free of an experience as possible. As a vet, the ability to confidently deliver as positive of an experience as possible relies on your dedication to staying up-to-date on the medicine and technology available to you to help you perform your job to the best of your ability. 

For more information on gastrointestinal problems, surgery, and solutions (for both pet parents and veterinarians) we think you’d be interested in reading more here: How Regenerative Medicine Can Help with Gastrointestinal Problems and Surgery.

*Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis, treatment plan, and cost assessment of your pet’s condition.

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7 Christmas Gift Ideas Your Favorite Vet Will Love

With a little help from Santa Paws, we’ve compiled a whole list of gifts for the veterinarian in your life that’s just what the dog-ter ordered. And if you’re a veterinarian wondering what you should gift your veterinary staff this year, you might find some holiday shopping inspiration below.

7 Christmas Gift Ideas Your Favorite Vet Will Love

 

  1. Personalized Veterinarian Stethoscope Tag
    Etsy is a fantastic place to start browsing for a Christmas gift if you’re searching for a unique present. Where else would you find this adorable personalized veterinarian stethoscope tag? Depending on your vet’s preferences, you can create the tag using aluminum, brass, copper, or sterling silver. Shoppers also have numerous font options to choose from and can request an inscription up to 25 characters in length. 
  2. Laser Engraved Apple Watch Band
    This Etsy shop has 20+ color combinations to choose from and create a personalized engraved Apple Watch band. It’s compatible with all Apple Watch models and makes an excellent gift for veterinarians and vet techs.
  3. Funny Coffee Mug
    What vet doesn’t work long hours week after week? Keep your favorite veterinarian caffeinated with this novelty 13oz glass coffee mug with I Just Want To Drink Coffee, Save Animals And Take Naps printed on both sides. It’s microwave safe and dish-washer-safe. If you want to spread a little extra holiday cheer, include a bag of your vet’s favorite coffee with the mug.
  4. Gift Cards
    Gift cards go a long way, and there are so many options to choose from you’re bound to find something your vet will love. Whether it’s coffee, food, smoothies, a massage, or shopping, everyone enjoys the opportunity to treat themselves every now and again.
  5. Figs Scrubs
    A veterinary professional can never have too many scrubs, and Figs are always a fantastic choice. They’re comfortable and come in great colors. Their customer service is top-notch, too, so if you ever have any questions or need to make a return, Figs has you covered.
  6. Vet Life: A Snarky Adult Coloring Book
    Coloring is a relaxing activity that’s great for decompressing after a long day of taking care of fur babies. According to the Mayo Clinic, in addition to relieving stress, coloring is also a great activity for promoting mindfulness and alleviating the pressures of high-stress jobs–like those in veterinary medicine. Besides, who doesn’t love to color? There’s a coloring book by the same company for vet techs too.
  7. Tiff’s Treats
    Hot, fresh-baked cookies delivered right to the veterinarian’s office.. Need we say more? If you’re not in the delivery zone, don’t worry! Tiff’s Treats ships nationwide, so you can still gift a sweet treat to your favorite vet with no problem.

 

Please note: Vetrix has no affiliation with the above  shops or businesses.

 

Bonus: Give the Gift of Regenerative Medicine This Christmas

Vetrix is the leading provider of veterinary regenerative medicine.  As a world supplier of innovative veterinary products, we enable veterinarians to provide exceptional treatment for their patients. Vetrix® brings the very best in surgical products for superior patient care. Our attention to detail shows in the quality of our products, and the consistency by which our products are made and delivered. As a vet, consider giving your patients the gift of regenerative medicine and healing all year long. Browse the following Vetrix Technologies to learn more:

 

 

Thank you for a magical 2022. We look forward to growing and learning more with you in 2023!

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4 Safe and Healthy Foods Your Dog Can Eat for Thanksgiving Dinner

Thanksgiving is only a few days around the corner, which usually results in an uptick in vet visits. There’s nothing wrong with sharing food and celebrating Thanksgiving with your dog, as long as you remember that your fur babies rely on you to keep them safe. Before you give in to the puppy dog eyes peering at you from under the table this year, take some time to ensure that you understand what your dog can and can’t eat at Thanksgiving dinner.

4 Safe and Healthy Foods Your Dog Can Eat for Thanksgiving Dinner

 

  1. Skinless, white turkey meat. White Turkey meat–without bones–is a delicious dinner staple your dog will love, and it’s high in protein and low in fat. It’s best to avoid fatty snacks, so ensure that the turkey you share with your pet is turkey skin and gravy free. Fatty foods can overstimulate and inflame the pancreas, resulting in a life-threatening situation. Avoiding fatty foods is especially important to remember if you’re the proud owner of a Yorkshire Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, or a Cocker Spaniel.
  2. Pumpkin. Pumpkin is a super healthy dog snack that’s also great for your pup’s skin and coat. Sugar-free canned pumpkin is safe to share with your pet, so feel free to place a dollop in Fido’s food bowl.
  3. Vegetables: Green beans, sweet potatoes, carrots, and broccoli. Most veggies are a great low-calorie snack choice for dogs. Raw green beans are full of iron and provide a satisfying crunch. A few chopped cubes of sweet potatoes are great for your dog’s digestive health.
  4. Apple Slices. Setting aside a few seed-free apple slices before baking your pie is a great way to spoil your dog while keeping them safe on Turkey Day. Apple slices are full of Vitamins A and C and are also a decent fiber source.

 

Please note that as long as your dog has no food allergies, it’s safe to feed them small amounts of the foods listed above. You know your pet best. 

 

4 Foods Your Dog Can’t Eat at Thanksgiving Dinner

 

  1. Turkey bones. We said it once, and we’ll repeat it: Do not feed your dog turkey bones. We know it’s tempting, but the bones can potentially harm your pet’s digestive tract, and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) says it’s best to avoid it.
  2. Turkey dressing/Stuffing. Both options almost always contain onions and garlic, which are toxic for pets. It’s not worth the risk.
  3. Mashed potatoes. Everyone loves a healthy of mashed potatoes on the side during Thanksgiving dinner, but this side dish is a food your dog can’t enjoy with you. Mashed potatoes are often packed with butter and cream, which can cause diarrhea in dogs.
  4. Xylitol-containing products. Xylitol is often found in marshmallows, so if you’re thinking about sharing sweet potatoes with your fur baby, make sure you do so before the marshmallows or brown sugar is added to the dish (sugar isn’t good for your dog either).

 

Keep Your Dog Safe on Thanksgiving

If you’re hosting Dinner this year, remember to advise family and other guests on what they can and can’t feed your dog for Thanksgiving dinner. Keep an eye on your pets and follow the list of can and can’t share from above, and you’ll be well on your way to a memorable Thanksgiving holiday. For more information on Thanksgiving and how to keep your pet safe through the holidays, we recommend reading this article from the AVMA: Thanksgiving Pet Safety.

Vetrix is the leading provider of veterinary regenerative medicine, and we can help your practice thrive! To learn more, get in touch with us today.

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Cruciate Ligament Injuries in Cats and Treatment

Cranial cruciate ligament rupture or tears are debilitating injuries that can occur in cats. While the condition is common in humans and dogs, it is not common in cats. This is why it is essential to understand how you can treat your cat. Torn ligament injuries can cause severe pain – it requires immediate treatment and care. Not being seen and treated appropriately can lead to permanent joint complications and disability.

You need to know everything about treating a cat, torn cruciate ligament, healing times, and prevention.

What Is the Cruciate Ligament?

The cruciate ligament is a pair of ligaments found in the knee joint, forming an X shape in the hind legs. As there are no interlocking bones within the knee, fibrous bands known as ligaments hold the portion together. Attaching the femur and the tibia to the long bones, this leg section is known as the stifle. The ligament runs from the top of the leg and connects the lower leg bone to the upper leg bone.

The Cruciate ligaments act as a way to stabilize the knee joint in your cat’s hind legs. Cats have two cruciate ligaments – the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) and the Caudal cruciate ligament. The CCL ligament is similar to the ACL found in the human knee joint.

What Causes a Cruciate Ligament Injury?

Cruciate injury in cats is rare compared to dogs. There are, however, times when ligament rupture in cats occurs. As the damage is excruciating, it is essential to understand what causes it and how to prevent it from occurring or reoccurring. Depending on the severity, a cruciate ligament rupture can cause permanent pain in a cat’s knee.

These types of injury to the knee joint occurs most commonly as a result of trauma to the knee. A torn CCL injury can also be caused by several other health complications such as getting hit in an automobile accident, weakened joints, previous injuries, congenital health conditions such as arthritis, and too much weight. Your cat’s overall health and aforementioned medical conditions can also significantly contribute to your feline’s risk of acute cruciate injury.

Risking Injury to Several Ligaments

In cats, a cruciate ligament ruptures occur when it tears or ruptures completely. This injury makes the knee unstable, and the bones in the leg begin to move in an abnormal direction. This instability can cause debilitating pain and stiffness in your cat’s legs. Your cat will most likely struggle to put weight on the leg or walk appropriately without the risk of the legs collapsing. When it comes to cruciate ligament injuries, even a partial or minor tear can be debilitating; not only is it excruciatingly painful if left untreated treated, it can lead to long-term joint complications, lameness, and pain.

The risk of injuring more than one ligament increases if the condition is not treated immediately. As the stifle joint is destabilized during the injury, your pet might shift its weight from the affected joint to the other leg – causing an increased risk of injuring the other CCL. It is essential to understand that once this instability occurs, you should seek veterinary care immediately.

Signs and Symptoms of a Torn Cruciate Ligament

A debilitating injury such as a cruciate rupture immediately presents signs and symptoms. If you have an active cat or a cat that has an underlying joint condition that might result in weakened joints or issues that could increase its chances of a CCL rupture, you should keep your eye out for the following signs and symptoms:

  • Lameness – Sudden onset of lameness in one or both of the rear limbs. Also, be on the lookout for gradual lameness in the hind limbs, as this can result from a partial tear.
  • Change in behavior – Your feline might display a sudden change in behavior and temperament due to pain and swelling; your once active cat may become lethargic, sleepy, and remain sleeping when once active.
  • Pain – Localized pain at the site of the injury.
  • Swelling and inflammation of the joints – swollen joints and hind legs.
  • Problems bending the knee – Movement and walking may be painful, and a struggle to bend the knee properly.
  • Fluid buildup – This can look like fluid building up, causing swelling in the joint and the legs as well as the paws.
  • Sounds coming from the joint – a grating sound coming from the joint
  • Reduced mobility and lack of movement – When a cruciate injury occurs, your pet won’t want to move around as much. Watch for excessive sleeping and licking of the hind legs.

While there might be other symptoms, these are the most common. If your cat jumps or falls from a height such as a tall window or bookshelf, it is essential to keep an eye on them and make notes of any possible symptoms when they occur and their severity – these notes will help your vet understand the seriousness of the traumatic event.

How Is a Diagnosed Cruciate Ligament Injury in Cats?

Once you understand how a cruciate injury occurs, you can begin understanding the process of diagnosing and treating your pet. Your cat’s veterinarian care might run through several diagnostic methods to establish the severity of damage to the affected limb.

ACL injuries in cats can be diagnosed by several methods:

  • X-rays – one of the most common methods used to analyze is an x-ray. This will show whether there is additional fluid built up on the joint as well as any added signs of arthritis and weakening of the joints.
  • Vital Signs – A complete nose-to-tail examination is often required.
  • Physical palpation of the joint and affected limb. The vet may attempt to pull the lower leg forward, which can be a sign that the cruciate ligament is injured.
  • Checking for instability in a cat that is awake.
  • Full panel of blood work – Conduct blood work to assess your cat’s overall health and rule out underlying illnesses.
  • Sedation – if your cat has very strong leg muscles or displays any signs of aggression, your vet may recommend sedation before a physical examination of the leg or further testing can happen. This is for your cat’s comfort and safety.

Treating Injuries; Cruciate ligaments

Cats with an anterior or cranial cruciate ligament rupture can be treated in a number of different ways. While most vets will recommend a treatment plan that can be followed at home, there are occasions when a torn ACL in your cat might need to be treated with surgery. Your vet may recommend a replacement ligament in cases of severe twisting or ruptures.

Depending on the underlying cause of the cruciate damage – your vet may recommend surgical reattachment of the ligaments. Preventing additional injury to the anterior cruciate ligament or the cranial cruciate ligament is vital to the healing process. It is essential to ensure that the surgical site does not incur additional damage such as scar tissue.

Non-Surgical Treatment and Solutions for CCL Ruptures

There are a few non-surgical methods that your vet may recommend when it comes to treating a cranial cruciate ligament rupture in cats.

  • Physical therapy – regular physical therapy can help assist your cat in repairing the joints and ligaments.
  • Weight loss – cats that battle with excessive weight can suffer from additional injuries or degenerative joint conditions. Overweight cats will be placed on a weight-restricting diet.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – will manage the pain and inflammation, assisting your cat’s knee problem.
  • Cage Rest – Your vet may recommend that your cat be kept in a cage for several weeks with exercise restrictions to stabilize the joint and allow adequate rest.

With proper care, your pet is set to make a speedy recovery and return to normal function in no time. Depending on the severity of the injury, you can expect your pet’s recovery to take up to six weeks.

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Treating Dog Eye Inflammation

A swollen eye on your dog might look frightening – however, there are many reasons why your dog might suffer from eye inflammation. It is treatable from injuries to allergies – no matter the actual cause of your dog’s eye inflammation. Here is everything you need to know about treating your pet’s eyes and how you can prevent future inflammation.

What Is Dog Eye Inflammation?

Also known as idiopathic blepharitis, Anterior uveitis or Eye inflammation in dogs is a painful condition in which the eye becomes reddened, swollen, and inflamed. The surrounding flesh and the eyelid can swell up and become warm to the touch. Inflammation of the eye can be a condition on its own, or it could be a sign of something more serious. Blepharitis is typically the result of allergies, an infection, an injury, various tumors, underlying disease, or a congenital abnormality. While inflammation might heal over time, it can be severe and should be assessed by a vet. If you suspect something is wrong with your dog’s eye, it is vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible, as inflammation is often a sign that there could be a deeper underlying cause.

What Causes Dog Eye Inflammation

There are many reasons why your dog might be experiencing inflammation around the eyes. It is essential to have your pet assessed by a veterinarian to establish the cause of the inflammation – as it can be a symptom of something a little more serious, you should take any inflammation seriously.

Reasons Why is my dog’s Eye Inflamed?

  • Rapid formation of cataracts
  • Underlying health conditions – autoimmune disease, diabetes, parasitic disease, Bacterial, viral or fungal infection, Lyme disease, adenovirus, distemper, canine herpes
  • Allergies – Hay fever and a change of season are common causes of eye inflammation in dogs. Chemicals such as laundry detergent or cleaning products used around the house can also contribute to inflammation.
  • Corneal abrasion or corneal ulceration – abrasions of the cornea resulting from trauma, infection, or dirt trapped under the eyelid can cause eye swelling.
  • Cancer – Mast cell tumors and cancers can cause eye inflammation in dogs.
  • Adverse reactions to medical treatments or conditions such as bee stings can result in blepharitis in dogs.
  • Traumatic injuries – An injury such as blunt trauma or penetration of the eye causing an issue like lens damage
  • Congenital abnormalities – Your dog’s eye inflammation could result from congenital disabilities such as eyelid abnormalities. Hair and prominent facial folds, a lack of hair and eyelashes, sensitive skin, or abnormalities in how the eye functions can cause an increased risk of inflammation around the eyes.
  • Sunburn – some dog breeds are particularly susceptible to inflammation around the eye. Dogs with white fur or short coats can often experience sunburn around the eyes if not adequately protected.

Signs and Symptoms of Eye Inflammation in Dogs

As blepharitis in dogs can be very irritating, you will likely notice it when it occurs. There are several different symptoms and signs of blepharitis. Look out for these signs.

What does eye inflammation look like in dogs?

  • Blinking – excessive blinking and squinting
  • Hypersensitivity to light – bright lights might irritate your dog’s eye
  • Reddening – any areas of white around the eye may become red and swollen
  • Eye Discharge -Tearing, watery eyes or a discharge that varies in texture might be seen dripping down at the corners of the eyes
  • Frequent touching and pawing at the eye
  • Blood – There may be bleeding within the eye or in the surrounding flesh
  • Flaky or scaly skin – This symptom might not be present in all cases; however, inflammation can cause the skin to break or become dried out and scaly. Flaky skin can result from an adverse reaction to the medication, highlighting a possible cause of the inflammation itself.
  • Shape and color of the eye – The eyeball and the iris may change color or shape
  • Swelling – The eyeball and surrounding flesh may swell up and become puffy
  • The appearance of the affected eye – Your dog’s eye may look cloudy, appear dull or even look milky or blue

Eye diseases, viral infections, and many other conditions may cause blepharitis in dogs. Each symptom and sign will be taken into consideration by a vet before a diagnosis is given. If you do notice something is wrong, take notes of the symptoms and offer your vet an in-depth description. This could help your veterinarian diagnose your pet accurately for a speedy treatment plan.

Diagnosis of Eye Inflammation in Dogs

Diagnosing eye inflammation in dogs is often a simple process for a vet. Your pet’s eye is a vital organ, and it needs to be protected and cared for – which makes it even more important to have it assessed as soon as possible. Your vet can diagnose the cause of your dog’s eye inflammation and the underlying cause. Diagnostic tests can vary in type and depth –

  • Physical examination – diagnosis often starts with a physical inspection of the eye and the surrounding tissues as inflammation can result from many different reasons; your vet may do a complete body examination and the initial eye exam.
  • Review of the complete medical history – Recurrent inflammatory disorders can cause inflammation in the eye – a review of your pet’s previous history may pinpoint the cause of the inflammation.
  • Schirmer Tear Test – If your dog suffers from hereditary or genetic conditions, your vet may suggest a Schirmer tear test to see if your dog’s eyes have adequate tear production and produce enough moisture. Tear duct problems can contribute to acute swelling of the eye.
  • Dye testing – Testing such as fluorescein staining can help pinpoint corneal injuries that could cause your dog blepharitis. This will also determine whether your pet’s cornea is not damaged.
  • Ocular pressure testing will help your vet determine whether your pet is suffering from glaucoma or uveitis.
  • Complete blood count panels – inflammation can be caused by bacterial infections or underlying parasites; if your vet suspects a different cause, they might recommend a full blood panel.

As inflammation is often a symptom of something more profound, your vet needs to rule out as many conditions as possible. Further testing, such as allergy testing, and Further testing, may be needed if an infection occurs, or to form an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment of Eye Inflammation in Dogs

A variety of conditions can cause blepharitis, and each of these conditions is treated differently. Since this condition can be challenging to treat, other symptoms will play a significant role in how your veterinarian treats the inflammation. Your vet may treat the eye with topical ointments containing antibiotics or simply recommend cleaning the look with a cotton ball and medicinal solutions. If developing blepharitis results from an infection or an allergy, your vet may recommend a specific treatment protocol for that condition before treating the inflammation.

In severe cases such as insect bites of the eye or in situations where your dog’s eyes have been injured – discuss using a regenerative medication such as Vetrix EyeQ eye drops or, in cases of severe injury to the cornea – EyeQ Ocular discs. Regenerative medicine helps the eye heal faster and more effectively by using innate amniotic technology to stimulate the body’s natural healing responses while providing the perfect environment for the eye to heal.

 

Share Our Products With Your Veterinarian

 

In most cases of inflammatory eye conditions, it is essential to treat the eye immediately to prevent further complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

As a pet owner, it might be vital to know all you can about treating inflamed eyes in dogs. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions.

Can a dog eye infection heal on its own?

Yes, eye infections can heal on their own. However, they do need to be assessed by a vet to ensure that there are no deeper causes that require medical treatment. Leaving the eye undiagnosed or untreated could prolong your dog’s suffering and cause additional pain.

Can dogs recover from eye inflammation?

Dogs often recover well from this condition when treated appropriately. It is important to follow treatment plans set out by your veterinarian to ensure proper healing.

Can dog eye inflammation cause blindness?

If the condition is as a result of an underlying cause, severe cases can result in damage to your dog’s vision. This is particularly true if a foreign object is left in the eye untreated.

Can you prevent dog eye inflammation?

If your dog routinely suffers from blepharitis – you might want to consider speaking to your vet about how to prevent it. If it is a once-off occurrence, your vet might not have a prevention plan; some dogs suffer from it regularly in the event of fighting and aggression – it is essential to seek guidance from a trained vet or professional.

Breeds commonly impacted

Due to their physical appearance and genetics, certain dog breeds are predisposed to inflamed eyes. From issues with their eyelids to narrow muzzles and prominent facial folds – these breeds might suffer from chronic inflammation that can be managed with treatment plans, regular check-ups, and medicated eye drops where needed. Some species are predisposed to allergies, such as dry skin, dry eye, and other conditions. These breeds regularly suffer from inflamed eyes.

  • Chinese Shar-Pei
  • Chow Chow
  • English Bulldog
  • Pug
  • Poodles
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Golden Retrievers
  • Labrador Retrievers
  • Rottweiler
  • Bull Terriers

Speak to your veterinarian today about Vetrix EyeQ Ocular Discs if your dog is experiencing recurring eye infections accompanied by inflammation. If your dog is suffering from a nonhealing eye wound, it is vital to consider regenerative medicine for your pet to kickstart healing from within.

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