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Clinical Management of Ophthalmic Manifestations of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Kittens
Feline upper respiratory tract infections are a common cause of ophthalmic disease in kittens. This article focuses on the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, supportive care, and prevention of feline infectious upper respiratory di... moreFeline upper respiratory tract infections are a common cause of ophthalmic disease in kittens. This article focuses on the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, supportive care, and prevention of feline infectious upper respiratory disease in kittens, with an emphasis on ocular involvement. Evidence-based treatment strategies and supportive care protocols are highlighted. Common sequelae of disease are also discussed.
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Just as Loved
This article explores species-specific approaches to end-of-life care, emphasizing the importance of understanding each animal’s unique biology, behavior, and environment. The Five Domains model guides holistic welfare assessments, integrating physical, m... moreThis article explores species-specific approaches to end-of-life care, emphasizing the importance of understanding each animal’s unique biology, behavior, and environment. The Five Domains model guides holistic welfare assessments, integrating physical, mental, and social health. Visual tools like Rainbow Mapping facilitate family involvement in quality of life evaluations and care planning. The article provides detailed protocols for sedation, euthanasia, and aftercare across various species, highlighting the importance of compassionate communication and tailored care strategies to ensure humane, dignified passings while supporting the emotional needs of families. less
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Veterinary Hospice—Enhancing Quality Without Prolonging Suffering
Veterinary hospice provides a compassionate, patient-centered approach to end-of-life care that emphasizes comfort, dignity, and quality of life over curative intent. This article outlines the principles of hospice care, including patient selection, multi... moreVeterinary hospice provides a compassionate, patient-centered approach to end-of-life care that emphasizes comfort, dignity, and quality of life over curative intent. This article outlines the principles of hospice care, including patient selection, multimodal pain and symptom management, environmental adaptations, and integration with geriatric care. It highlights the importance of proactive communication, quality-of-life assessment tools, and euthanasia planning to guide families through difficult decisions. By supporting both patients and caregivers, veterinary hospice strengthens the human–animal bond and ensures that a pet’s final stage of life is managed with empathy, evidence-based strategies, and respect for individual values. less
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Supporting Caregivers
Accumulating evidence suggests psychological distress occurs for many owners of aging and ill companion animals. Increased caregiving responsibilities may result in the experience of burden, which can come with an emotional price tag including stress and ... moreAccumulating evidence suggests psychological distress occurs for many owners of aging and ill companion animals. Increased caregiving responsibilities may result in the experience of burden, which can come with an emotional price tag including stress and burnout. Key to providing support for the overwhelmed caregiver is understanding, identifying, and facilitating alleviation of this burden. The following work offers a brief review of this topic and provides guidance for recognition of burden in the companion animal owner and recommendations for facilitation of its alleviation. less
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Movement Is Medicine
Dogs live longer lives than ever and the impact of aging affects their daily functions and quality of life. Understanding physiologic changes of aging and how this impacts mobility can help care givers provide effective interventions to improve functional... moreDogs live longer lives than ever and the impact of aging affects their daily functions and quality of life. Understanding physiologic changes of aging and how this impacts mobility can help care givers provide effective interventions to improve functional movement. Implementation of customized exercise programs aimed at improving coordination/balance, strength, endurance, and functional tasks can improve daily quality of life and longevity. Exercise has wide ranging benefits from improving cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health to mental health and improving the human-animal bond. Diligent adherence to routine moderate level of exercise and rehabilitation revitalizes the lives of aging pets and their owners. less
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Addressing Cognitive Dysfunction
Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a common, yet underdiagnosed, neurobehavioral disease of domestic animals. Much like its human counterpart, Alzheimer’s disease, CDS is the result of neuronal loss and inflammatory changes in the central nervous sys... moreCognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a common, yet underdiagnosed, neurobehavioral disease of domestic animals. Much like its human counterpart, Alzheimer’s disease, CDS is the result of neuronal loss and inflammatory changes in the central nervous system; however, the specific pathophysiology of the disease continues to be researched in efforts to advance diagnostics, prognosis, and treatment. Diagnosis is typically conducted by ruling out possibilities and using assessment tools, including the Canine Dementia Scale and the Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Rating Scale. Treatment is often most successful when a tailored, multimodal approach is initiated early in the disease progression. less
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Sensory Decline
Sensory decline, particularly vision and hearing loss, is nearly universal in aging dogs and cats yet remains underrecognized in general practice. These changes are often mistaken for cognitive dysfunction or normal aging, but they significantly affect qu... moreSensory decline, particularly vision and hearing loss, is nearly universal in aging dogs and cats yet remains underrecognized in general practice. These changes are often mistaken for cognitive dysfunction or normal aging, but they significantly affect quality of life, behavior, and the human–animal bond. This review provides busy clinicians with practical, evidence-based strategies for identifying and managing sensory decline, including screening approaches, diagnostic tools, and real-world management tactics. Emphasis is placed on proactive care, client education, and the interplay between sensory loss and cognitive dysfunction to improve outcomes for senior patients. less
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Senior Versus Geriatric: Unpacking the Frailty of Aging
Veterinary geriatrics is evolving from an age-based label to a dynamic, functional assessment of how pets experience aging. This article explores key concepts including frailty, caregiver perception, functional versus medical aging, quality of life, and p... moreVeterinary geriatrics is evolving from an age-based label to a dynamic, functional assessment of how pets experience aging. This article explores key concepts including frailty, caregiver perception, functional versus medical aging, quality of life, and prediction of decline. Drawing from emerging veterinary literature and adapted human geriatric models, it offers practical tools and frameworks to support proactive, compassionate care for aging pets.
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Adverse Food Reactions in Dogs and Cats
Adverse food reactions (AFRs) are a frequent cause of chronic pruritus and gastrointestinal disease in dogs and cats. They include immunologic (allergic) and nonimmunologic reactions, with diagnosis remaining challenging due to nonspecific clinical signs.... moreAdverse food reactions (AFRs) are a frequent cause of chronic pruritus and gastrointestinal disease in dogs and cats. They include immunologic (allergic) and nonimmunologic reactions, with diagnosis remaining challenging due to nonspecific clinical signs. Current diagnostic tests (serum immunoglobulin E/immunoglobulin G, saliva, and hair) lack reliability, and elimination diet trials with dietary provocation remain the gold standard. Hydrolyzed diets are practical first-line options, while elemental diets may further improve diagnostic accuracy in the future. Advances in understanding T-cell–mediated mechanisms highlight the potential of lymphocyte proliferation assays, although further validation is required before clinical implementation. less
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Appendix: Resources
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Complications Across Disciplines: Improving Outcomes in Equine Practice
Complications remain a significant concern in equine practice, affecting a wide range of medical and surgical disciplines. Despite advances in diagnostic modalities, therapeutic interventions, and perioperative care, equine patients present unique challen... moreComplications remain a significant concern in equine practice, affecting a wide range of medical and surgical disciplines. Despite advances in diagnostic modalities, therapeutic interventions, and perioperative care, equine patients present unique challenges that predispose them to unfavorable outcomes. The occurrence of complications has direct implications for patient welfare, case management, and client communication, underscoring the importance of understanding both the risk factors and the strategies available to mitigate adverse events. less
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Complications in Theriogenology
This article explores key complications in equine reproduction, focusing on their causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. It emphasizes the risks associated with common procedures, particularly those that are iatrogenic, meaning caused by medical in... moreThis article explores key complications in equine reproduction, focusing on their causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. It emphasizes the risks associated with common procedures, particularly those that are iatrogenic, meaning caused by medical intervention. The discussion highlights how understanding these risks can help in early detection and management, ultimately improving reproductive success and animal welfare. The article also provides insights into best practices to minimize complications, ensuring safer procedures and better outcomes for breeding horses. less
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Adverse Effects of Antimicrobial Drugs Use in Horses
Antimicrobial drug therapy in horses can lead to adverse effects across multiple body systems, with specific age groups, such as foals, at particular risk. Certain antimicrobial drugs, such as penicillins, aminoglycosides, macrolides, tetracyclines, and t... moreAntimicrobial drug therapy in horses can lead to adverse effects across multiple body systems, with specific age groups, such as foals, at particular risk. Certain antimicrobial drugs, such as penicillins, aminoglycosides, macrolides, tetracyclines, and trimethoprim-sulfonamide combinations, are commonly implicated. This review explores the mechanisms behind these adverse reactions, emphasizing the importance of judicious antimicrobial drug use. This review also underscores the need for a centralized pharmacovigilance system to improve drug safety and adverse event reporting for veterinary medicine. less
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Complications of the Recumbent Horse
This issue focuses on the potential complications caused by prolonged recumbency in horses. It discusses how managing a recumbent horse involves treating the primary illness while also preventing and addressing secondary issues that can arise from recumbe... moreThis issue focuses on the potential complications caused by prolonged recumbency in horses. It discusses how managing a recumbent horse involves treating the primary illness while also preventing and addressing secondary issues that can arise from recumbency itself. The authors explore the underlying pathophysiology of these complications, along with strategies for prevention and treatment. By understanding these aspects, veterinarians can improve care and outcomes for horses that are immobilized for extended periods. The issue provides insights into the most common complications and emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to managing recumbent horses, aiming to minimize risks and promote recovery. less
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Complications in Wound Management
Over 25% of all emergencies are classified as wounds, making them the most common health conditions treated by veterinarians. While equine wounds may heal with minimal intervention, many complications associated with wound management can occur, thereby de... moreOver 25% of all emergencies are classified as wounds, making them the most common health conditions treated by veterinarians. While equine wounds may heal with minimal intervention, many complications associated with wound management can occur, thereby delaying wound healing and leading to chronic non-healing wounds. Wounds should be closed primarily when possible; however, numerous factors influence the risk of complications. Infection and biofilm production are common causes of delayed wound healing. Other causes of non-healing wounds include the presence of foreign material, sequestrum formation, the development of exuberant granulation tissue, neoplastic transition, and habronemiasis. less
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Complications in the Critically Ill Equine Patient
Complications in critically ill equine patients are often related to the underlying disease process but can also be a consequence of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Complications can be specific to the affected organ or body system; however, in ... moreComplications in critically ill equine patients are often related to the underlying disease process but can also be a consequence of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Complications can be specific to the affected organ or body system; however, in critically ill patients, they frequently affect the vasculature, acid–base, electrolyte, and fluid balance, energy homeostasis, and coagulation, with systemic consequences. Infrequent monitoring, late detection, failure to adapt therapies, hematologic and biochemical abnormalities, coagulopathies, and systemic inflammation can all contribute to processes that worsen the prognosis. Reducing the impact of complications through accurate clinical evaluations as well as a good understanding of physiology, pathophysiology, data interpretation, and therapeutics ultimately improve the outcome of the critically ill equine patient. less
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Complications of Equine Musculoskeletal Surgery and Procedures
Complications of equine musculoskeletal procedures and surgery are an inevitable occurrence. This article summarizes complications principally encountered by primary equine veterinarians who perform and manage musculoskeletal procedures and surgeries. Top... moreComplications of equine musculoskeletal procedures and surgery are an inevitable occurrence. This article summarizes complications principally encountered by primary equine veterinarians who perform and manage musculoskeletal procedures and surgeries. Topics discussed include complications of musculoskeletal diagnostic procedures, angular/flexural limb deformities, and muscle, tendon, and ligament surgery; surgery of the foot, orthopedic and arthroscopic surgery, and cast management. Each section lists complications encountered and includes diagnostic and treatment considerations. Awareness of these complications will empower equine veterinarians to identify and manage these adversities to result in the best possible outcomes for their patients. less
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Complications of Respiratory Surgery in the Horse
Respiratory surgery and procedures typically focus on conditions of the upper airway that restrict airflow at rest or exercise. This article focuses on respiratory anatomy and common surgeries of the trachea and larynx in horses. The trachea serves as the... moreRespiratory surgery and procedures typically focus on conditions of the upper airway that restrict airflow at rest or exercise. This article focuses on respiratory anatomy and common surgeries of the trachea and larynx in horses. The trachea serves as the airway conduit from the larynx to the bronchi. A variety of upper airway disorders can lead to obstruction and in these instances, tracheotomy is typically utilized to bypass these obstructions and maintain airway patency. Emergency and permanent tracheotomy procedures are discussed. Other common upper airway operations, such as laryngotomy, prosthetic laryngoplasty, and others, are also examined. less
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Complications in Equine Anesthesia
General anesthesia in equine patients is associated with a higher risk of mortality despite improved monitoring equipments and anesthetic techniques most likely due to their large body size, unique physiology and anatomy, behavioral tendencies, and theref... moreGeneral anesthesia in equine patients is associated with a higher risk of mortality despite improved monitoring equipments and anesthetic techniques most likely due to their large body size, unique physiology and anatomy, behavioral tendencies, and therefore the challenging recovery. Larger body mass, increased age, higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) status, out-of-hours surgery, and longer duration of anesthesia have been identified as contributing factors increasing the risk of perioperative mortality in equine patients. Especially the recovery period remains a critical time in equine anesthesia. With vigilant monitoring and timely therapeutic support, intra-anesthetic complications can be quickly identified and managed, ultimately leading to improved outcomes. less
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Accidents, Injuries, and Complications in Equine Sports Medicine Practice
The physical stresses on equine athletes are unique and differ across various disciplines. Recognizing these differences is essential for early detection of injuries and effective management of the competition horse’s health. Equine sports medicine involv... moreThe physical stresses on equine athletes are unique and differ across various disciplines. Recognizing these differences is essential for early detection of injuries and effective management of the competition horse’s health. Equine sports medicine involves specific challenges and risks that can be reduced through proper care, careful attention to technique, and a deep understanding of the demands of each sport. Proper training, regular monitoring, and sport-specific expertise are crucial in preventing injuries and ensuring optimal performance. By focusing on these aspects, veterinarians and trainers can help maintain the health and longevity of horses. less
