Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis in Dogs

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis in dogs is an inflammatory condition of the stomach and intestines. The name of the disease is derived from the fact that lining of the stomach and intestines is infiltrated with a specific type of white blood cell known as an eosinophil.

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis can affect both dogs and cats. If you would like to learn more about how this condition affects cats, please visit this page in the petMD health library.

Symptoms and Types

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis is most commonly seen in dogs less than 5 years of age, though it can affect dogs of any age. German Shepherds, Rottweilers, soft-coated Wheaten Terriers, and Shar Peis may be predisposed. Symptoms include:

VomitingDiarrheaLack of appetiteWeight loss

Causes

ParasitesImmune-mediated – may be associated with food allergies, inflammatory bowel disease or with adverse drug reactionsSystemic mastocytosis (a disorder involving mast cell infiltration of body tissues)Hypereosinophilic syndromeEosinophilic leukemiaIdiopathic eosinophilic gastroenteritis (cause unknown)

Diagnosis

In order to confirm the diagnosis a veterinarian will typically examine your dog’s feces for parasites. In many cases, deworming with a broad spectrum deworming product is used to help rule out parasites as well. Routine blood testing (including a complete blood cell count and blood chemistry profile) and urinalysis may also be performed to check for abnormalities in organ function and blood cells.

Imaging such as radiographs (X-rays) and abdominal ultrasonography may be used to examine the intestinal tract more thoroughly, while dietary trials may be performed to diagnose food allergies or hypersensitivities.

Definitive diagnosis is made by collecting samples of the stomach and intestines for biopsy via endoscopy or exploratory surgery. If your veterinarian suspects idiopathic eosinophilic gastroenteritis, diagnosis is attained by ruling out other causes.

Treatment

If an underlying cause is discovered, it is important that it be treated first. Parasites, for instance, are treated with an appropriate dewormer. Food allergies and hypersensitivities are controlled with an appropriate diet.

In cases where protein is lost from the intestines, special fluid products known as colloids may be required. Dehydration, meanwhile, must be corrected with fluid therapy.

Steroids such as prednisone or prednisolone are frequently used in treatment of eosinophilic gastroenteritis in dogs. Other medications that may be necessary include anti-emetics to control vomiting and nausea.

What Is Ehrlichiosis in Dogs?

Ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne (transmitted by tick bites) disease caused by infectious bacteria from the Ehrlichia genus. There are many species of Ehrlichia, but the two most common species responsible for ehrlichiosis in dogs in the United States are E. canis and E. ewingii. While all are transmitted by tick bites, the specific tick may vary depending on the specific species of Ehrlichia. Similarly, the Ehrlichia bacteria infect and live in white blood cells but the specific type of white blood cell will vary.

E. canis was first identified during the Vietnam war and is sometimes called tracker dog disease or tropical canine pancytopenia. German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, Belgium Malinois, and Siberian Huskies appear to get a more severe form of this disease compared to other dogs. Often, when veterinarians refer to ehrlichiosis they are referring to an E. canis infection (scientifically called Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis). Once E. canis enters the host, it lives within white blood cells called monocytes. 

E. ewingii is the most common form of ehrlichiosis in North America, and once it enters the host, it lives in a different white blood cell called the granulocyte. Less attention is paid to E. ewingii infection (scientifically called canine granulocytic ehrlichiosis) because it is generally not as serious as E. canis infections. Most dogs with E. ewingii are only mildly ill or may show no signs of illness. 

Geographically, ehrlichiosis is most frequently reported in the southeastern and south-central United States with the highest prevalence in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas. 

Symptoms of Ehrlichiosis in Dogs

The clinical signs of E. canis can be divided into three phases: acute, subclinical, and chronic.

The acute phase (early disease) occurs one to three weeks after the tick bite occurs. During this time, the E. canis bacteria is reproducing and attaching to white blood cells. The clinical signs typically seen in the acute phase are:

Fever 

Lethargy/depression 

Anorexia/weight loss

Enlarged lymph nodes 

Lameness

Vomiting/diarrhea

Cough 

Abnormal bruising and bleeding

Neurologic signs, such as loss of balance or stumbling

If treated in the acute phase, most dogs will clear the infection completely and return to normal. Dogs that do not receive treatment will likely progress to the subclinical phase in weeks one to four.

In the subclinical phase, dogs will still be infected but show no signs of disease. The bacteria hide in the spleen where it can remain for months or years. The dog will have no clinical signs but may have some changes on bloodwork (a slightly low platelet count and possibly elevated blood protein called the globulin). Not all dogs will progress from the subclinical to the chronic phase as some dogs may clear the disease on their own.

In the chronic phase (long-term disease), the dogs were unable to eliminate the bacteria and will become sick again. Chronic phase clinical signs include:

Abnormal bleeding: Up to 60 percent of chronic phase dogs will have this symptom due to decreased platelet numbers which can lead to anemia.

Inflammation in the eyes (uveitis), bleeding in the eye (hyphema), or blindness

Neurologic signs, such as loss of balance or stumbling

Increased urinating (polyuria) and increased drinking (polydipsia) from damage to kidneys

Lameness/swollen limbs

Dogs in the chronic phase have a worse prognosis, and this phase can become fatal.

Clinical signs of E. ewingii are milder than E. canis and can include fever and swollen joints. Some dogs with E. ewingii do not show any clinical signs at all.

Causes of Ehrlichiosis in Dogs

E. canis is transmitted by the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus). E. ewingii is transmitted by the Lone Star tick (Amblyomma americanum). Disease transmission can occur in as little as three to six hours after the tick attaches, therefore prompt tick removal is crucial.

Humans cannot get E. canis but they are susceptible to other types of ehrlichiosis, including E. ewingii. However, ehrlichiosis is not zoonotic, meaning humans cannot get the disease directly from dogs. They can, however, get the disease from tick bites. If you think you have been exposed to ehrlichiosis, please seek medical attention immediately.  

How Veterinarians Diagnose Ehrlichiosis in Dogs

Obtaining a detailed history of travel and recent tick exposure can be useful when evaluating for ehrlichiosis. Your veterinarian will also start with a thorough physical examination to assess for fever, joint swelling/pain, and enlarged lymph nodes. A complete blood count, serum blood chemistry, and urinalysis will all likely be recommended for a baseline evaluation.

Your veterinarian will ask about any recent travel history where tick exposure may have occurred and will want to do a full examination of your dog. They may order various blood tests, including a urinalysis, and serum blood chemistry, to ensure they have a baseline for diagnosis. If you vet believes ehrlichiosis is the issue they may recommend additional specialized laboratory testing.

Most veterinarians use a Snap 4Dx test to annually check your dog for heartworms. In addition to heartworms, the test also checks for Lyme disease, Anaplasma, and Ehrlichia. According to the manufacturer’s website, the test would detect antibodies for E. canis or E. ewingii. In a healthy pet with no clinical signs, a positive Snap test for ehrlichiosis can be confusing and require additional testing.

Sometimes the test is a false positive (meaning it is actually negative), but in all likelihood, your pet was exposed to the bacteria from an infected tick bite. Your vet may choose one of three options based on if your pet has any symptoms:

Monitor your dog with no additional therapy

Treat for ehrlichiosis

Recommend additional testing, such as the PCR

Treatment of Ehrlichiosis in Dogs

Ehrlichiosis is typically treated with a 28- to 30-day course of antibiotics, most often prescribing Doxycycline. Most dogs in the acute or subclinical phases will not require hospitalization and can be managed as outpatients at home with minimal supportive care (pain medications and appetite stimulants). Dogs with chronic ehrlichiosis may require hospitalization for aggressive supportive care that includes blood transfusions, steroids, IV fluids, and nutritional support.

In many cases dogs with ehrlichiosis will also be infected with other tick-borne diseases, which may complicate diagnosis and treatment. Your veterinarian will customize a treatment plan to your dog’s specific needs.

Recovery and Management of Ehrlichiosis in Dogs

Dogs with acute or subclinical ehrlichiosis from E. canis tend to improve within one to two days of starting therapy and have an excellent prognosis for recovery. Dogs with E. ewingii infection tend to recover quickly after antibiotics have been initiated. Once recovered, dogs can still have antibodies in their blood for several years but are essentially cured of the infection.

Unfortunately, the prognosis for dogs with chronic E. canis infection is guarded as this stage can be fatal. Dogs who survive ehrlichiosis can become re-infected later in life as immunity is not lifelong.

Ehrlichiosis cannot be spread from dog to dog, but if multiple pets were exposed to the same area of ticks, please consult your veterinarian about testing and/or treating all dogs in your household.

Although ehrlichiosis is not zoonotic (cannot be transmitted from dog to human), humans can still get the infection directly from a tick bite. If you believe you have been exposed to ehrlichiosis through a tick bite, seek medical care immediately.  

Prevention of Ehrlichiosis in Dogs

Fortunately, most tick bites can be prevented through monthly flea and tick preventative care. There are plenty of options available, including topical, tablet, and chewable medications. Your veterinarian will be able to help you find the best option for your pet.

If you live near wooded areas where ticks are prone, it is best to keep your dog away from these areas, since there currently is no vaccine for ehrlichiosis. When your dog comes back from any outdoor adventure, it’s important to inspect them for any ticks or fleas and remove them safely. Early removal of ticks is the best defense against the spread of any infection.

Ehrlichiosis in Dogs FAQs

Can ehrlichiosis in dogs be cured?

Yes. With prompt, appropriate antibiotic therapy, ehrlichiosis can be cured. However, antibodies may remain present in the blood for years after successful treatment.

Can I get ehrlichiosis from my dog?

No. Transmission from dogs to humans has never been reported. However, people can get ehrlichiosis from ticks, and since dogs and people are often exposed to the same tick population, it is possible for people and dogs in the same household to test positive for ehrlichiosis.

Featured Image: iStock.com/Anna-av

WRITTEN BY

Veronica Higgs, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. Veronica Higgs is a 2010 graduate from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine.  She then completed a 1-year rotating…

Digital Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Dogs

Dogs can be afflicted with several types of skin tumors, even on their feet and toes. The most common type of type of tumor to affect the toes is a squamous cell carcinoma. A squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) can be described as a malignant and particularly invasive tumor that takes hold in the scale like cells of the epithelium – the tissue that covers the body or lines the cavities of the body. These scale like tissue cells are called the squamous.

Carcinoma is, by definition, an especially malignant and persistent form of cancer, often returning after is has been excised from the body and metastasizing to other organs and locations on the body.

A squamous cell carcinoma usually comes from the skin around the nail. It commonly affects the bone and tissue around it, spreading slowly enough that it can be caught before it is able to spread to other areas of the body. In dogs, squamous cell carcinomas usually affect only one toe. The tumor may appear as a small nodule, a reddish colored skin plaque, or as a papule – small and blister like in appearance, but differentiated by its lack of fluid. The SCC does not retain its appearance as a solid mass. Over time it will grow, the tissue within the mass will die (necrotize), and the tumor will ulcerate.

Large breed dogs and black colored dogs are more likely to be affected by these tumors. Labrador retrievers and standard poodles appear to be more vulnerable than other breeds. And, as with most types of carcinomas, squamous cell carcinoma is most likely to be seen in older dogs, around ten years old, though it has been also been diagnosed in younger dogs.

Symptoms and Types

Swollen toe or footLimping, reluctance to walkUlcer (sore) on toeBleeding ulcer on a toeBroken nail on a toe with a soreSolid, raised mass of skin on the toe (i.e., nodule, papule)Usually only one toe is affectedMay be without other symptoms

Causes

There is no known cause of squamous cell carcinomas of the toe in dogs.

Diagnosis

You will need to provide a thorough history of your dog’s health leading up to the onset of symptoms. Be sure to describe any sores that have been apparent on other parts of the body, even if you suspect they were caused by injuries resulting from outdoor activity, or from scratching at the skin. During the examination, your veterinarian will look carefully for other sores or tumors on your dog’s body. The lymph nodes will be carefully felt to determine if they are enlarged, an indication that the body is reacting to an infection or invasion. A sample of lymph fluid may be taken to test for cancerous cells. Your veterinarian will order complete blood count and biochemistry profile to make sure your dog’s other organs are working normally and to determine whether the white blood cell count is higher than normal; again, an indication that the body is fighting an invasive disease or infection.

X-rays images of your dog’s chest will allow your veterinarian to visually inspect the lungs for signs of any abnormalities, especially tumors. X-rays of your dog’s foot will also be ordered to determine how deep the tumor is in the tissue and whether the tumor on the toe has spread to the bones in the foot. A biopsy will be taken of the tumors so that your doctor can diagnose the specific type of growth it is, whether carcinoma or a benign mass of tissue. If your dog has sores or tumors in other areas, your veterinarian will also order biopsies of these for analysis.

Treatment

Treatment will depend on how many tumors or sores your dog has and whether or not they have spread to other areas of the body. If your dog has only one tumor on one toe, it will most likely be treated with surgery. To be sure that all of the carcinoma is removed, the toe with the tumor will be removed entirely (amputated). Most dogs recover well from this type of surgery and are able to walk normally afterwards.

If the tumor has spread to other areas, surgery alone may not be enough to treat your dog. Surgery, along with chemotherapy or other types of therapy may be recommended. If your veterinarian is not specialized in this area of animal medicine, he or she may recommend a veterinary cancer specialist so that you can determine if there are other viable treatment options for treating your dog. In the meantime, your veterinarian can prescribe a medication to help minimize your dog’s pain.

Living and Management

If your dog has had surgery to remove a toe, it may limp a little and have some pain in its foot afterwards. Pain medication will help your dog to move through the transition, and its activity may need to be limited until it has completely recovered from the surgery. Otherwise, once it has recovered, your dog should not have any difficulty compensating quickly for the lost digit. If the tumor was limited to one spot and had not metastasized to other parts of the body, a full recovery can be expected. While this type of cancer has a good chance of not recurring, as with any cancer, it is recommended that you take your dog for regular progress checks with your veterinarian. Even if the entire tumor could not be removed, most dogs do well for at least one year after surgery.

Dermatoses, Depigmenting Disorders

Skin dermatoses is a general medical term that applies to several types of bacterial infections or genetic diseases of the skin. Some dermatoses are cosmetic conditions involving loss of pigmentation of the skin and/or hair coat, but are otherwise no harmful.

For instance, German Shepherds tend to bacterial skin infections involving areas of the lips, eyelids, and nostrils. German Shepherds, Collies, and Shetland sheepdogs are predisposed to lupus, an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks its own skin and other organs, and discoid lupus, an autoimmune disease involving the skin only, usually the face.

Chow chows and Akitas are predisposed to an autoimmune disease involving the skin, characterized by inflammation with crusting, and lesions containing pus.

Akitas, Samoyeds and Siberian huskies tend to develop a rare syndrome that causes inflammation in the front part of the eye. The most affected area is the iris, with coexistent inflammation of the skin characterized by loss of pigment in the skin of the nose and lips.

Doberman Pinschers and Rottweilers may develop a condition characterized by symmetrical lack of pigment in the skin and a white hair coat, especially involving the face and nose. Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and Labrador Retrievers can display a seasonal loss of pigment in the tough, hairless skin of the nose. St. Bernards and Giant schnauzers can be afflicted with inflammation of the arteries of the nasal philtrum, the juncture between the sides of the upper lip extending to the nose.

Symptoms and Types

White hair (known as leukotrichia)Partial or total lack of pigment in the skin (known as leukoderma)Reddening of the skin (known as erythema)Loss of the top surface of the skin (known as an erosion or ulceration, based on depth of tissue loss)

Causes

Bacterial skin infections; the most commonly affected areas are:LipsEyelidsNostrilsFungal infection of skinContact hypersensitivity (allergies)Skin on face tends to be primarily affectedRed skin and pus – face and earsCrusting scabs and pus on skinLoss of skin/hair color after skin was inflamedLoss of color on nose and lips, vision lossSeasonal nasal depigmentationInflammation of the arteries of the nasal philtrum (very front of nose, above upper lip)Albinism (genetic)Vitiligo (smooth white patches of skin due to loss of skin color)Severe: skin and bodily organs affectedAutoimmune disease (often there is a genetic predisposition)Systemic lupus erythematosusDiscoid lupus erythematosusPemphigus foliaceusPemphigus erythematosusUveodermatologic syndromeHormonal disordersDrug reaction

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam on your dog, taking into account the background history of symptoms and possible incidents that might have precipitated this condition, such as whether your dog suffered a recent infection. You will need to give a thorough history of your dog’s health and onset of symptoms. Your veterinarian will order a blood chemical profile, a complete blood count, an electrolyte panel and a urinalysis. Blood samples can be tested for autoimmune factors.

As part of your dog’s physical exam, your veterinarian will take skin samples and skin scrapings to send to a lab for bacterial and fungal cultures. If the skin biopsy shows that skin cells are separating from each other (acantholytic), this is diagnostic for pemphigus. Direct immunofluorescence of skin samples using fluorescent dyes can also be used to demonstrate antibodies. Your veterinarian may also take fluid samples from your dog’s joints to check for lupus.

Treatment

Unless your dog is suffering from multiple organ dysfunction caused by lupus, treatment may be performed on an outpatient basis. Antibiotics will be prescribed by your veterinarian if a bacterial or fungal infection is present. Immunosuppressive medication is often prescribed for autoimmune disorders. Your veterinarian may refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist if your dog’s eyes are affected. Unless topical medications or ointments have been specifically prescribed by your veterinarian for your pet, any preparation should be avoided.

Living and Management

You will need to protect your dog from exposure to the sun if it has been diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, discoid lupus erythematosus, or pemphigus erythematosus. You can easily apply a water resistant sunblock with an SPF of greater than 30 to depigmented areas of your dog’s skin for walks or days out n the sun. If your dog is exposed to plastic or rubber dishes (especially if the dishes have roughened edges which might cause abrasions), they will need to be replaced.

If your dog’s skin condition worsens, you will need to contact your veterinarian, since it may indicate something more serious that is underlying the skin condition, such as a spreading infection. Your veterinarian will schedule follow-up appointments as necessary to monitor your dog’s skin ailment. Animals that are taking immunosuppressive medications (for autoimmune diseases) should have frequent blood work tests performed.

Amitraz Toxicosis in Dogs 

Amitraz toxicosis (or poisoning) occurs when a dog is overexposed to the pharmaceutical drug Amitraz (formamidine acaricide), which is commonly used in dog collars and in topical solutions for the prevention and eradication of ticks and to control demodex mite infections.

Toxic levels of this drug will affect the dog’s nervous, endocrine/metabolic, and gastrointestinal systems. Amitraz topical solutions usually contain 19.9 percent of the pharmaceutical in 10.6 ml bottles, while impregnated collars contain 9 percent of it in a 25-inch, 27.5 gram collar.

Symptoms and Types

The symptoms of Amitraz toxicosis develop acutely after the overexposure occurs — usually within two to six hours after the incidence. The most common symptoms include:

Vomiting Diarrhea Lethargy Weakness Staggering Disorientation Hypothermia Abdominal pain Light or severe depression

In severe cases where the correct treatment is not administered, Amitraz toxicosis may result in a comatose state or death.

Causes

Amitraz toxicosis can be caused in a number of ways. The most common cause of the condition is when a dog chews or ingests its own tick collar. It may also occur if an inadequately diluted Amitraz-containing solution is topically applied on the dog’s skin, or if the dog ingests the undiluted solution directly. If a diluted solution is topically applied in the proper way, Amitraz toxicosis occurs quite rarely.

Elderly, sick, diabetic or debilitated dogs and toy breeds are particularly vulnerable to this condition. Curious puppies are probably the most frequently affected victims.

Diagnosis

If there has been a recent incidence of access or exposure to an Amitraz-containing solution or tick collar and your dog is displaying any of the symptoms of an overdose, your veterinarian will base the diagnosis on a physical exam.

An abdominal X-ray will typically show that there is a collar buckle in the gastrointestinal tract. The results of an exam may reveal traces of Amitraz on the hair or in the gastrointestinal contents, and a biochemical and urine analysis will often reveal hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar).

Additionally, these tests may reveal an elevated level of liver enzymes when Amitraz toxicosis has occurred, although only rarely.

Treatment

In the less severe cases of Amitraz toxicosis resulting from topical application, mild sedation after the application of properly applied solutions, or a gloved scrubbing with a dish-washing detergent and large amounts of water may be sufficient as a treatment. More severe cases may require one to two days of inpatient care and supportive therapy consisting of intravenous fluids, nutritional support, and the maintenance of normal body temperature.

If the condition was caused by the ingestion of a collar, then the larger pieces have to be removed from the stomach with an endoscopic retrieval.

In the case of a collar ingestion during which the dog is not yet exhibiting any of the symptoms of Amitraz toxicosis, a 3 percent emetic and USP hydrogen peroxide (2.2 ml per kilo of body weight, maximum 45 ml) is orally administered after a moist meal has been fed. Activated charcoal (2 g per kilo of body weight) that contains sorbitol may also be administered through a stomach tube every four hours until the pieces of the collar bone appear in the dog’s stool.

If the dog is exhibiting marked depression, there are several medications available that can be used until the dog starts showing signs of improvement. An elderly, sick, or debilitated dog may need more time to recover from the symptoms.

Living and Management

After successful treatment, the dog must be closely observed for 24 to 72 hours and its body temperature, blood pressure, serum glucose and heart rate must constantly be monitored. In extremely severe cases, medications may need to be re-administered. There are usually no long-term adverse effects after the condition has been successfully treated.

Prevention

The best prevention for Amitraz toxicosis is to follow the instructions that come with the topical solutions and tick collars accurately, and to keep dogs in the same household from licking each others’ collars. Also, owners must keep Amitraz-containing solutions and unused tick collars in a place that is not accessible to their dogs.

This article was verified and edited for accuracy by Dr. Katie Grzyb, DVM on February 2, 2018.

Eyes may be the windows to the soul, but skin is truly the window to the health of your pet.

Our furred pets rely on hair to protect their skin, help regulate body temperature, and insulate the internal organs from cold and heat. Like your own daily hair loss, some shedding is natural in pets. Some breeds of dogs and cats naturally shed more than others, especially during seasonal changes when they are exposed to less light.

But excess shedding can be a sign of disease or illness that requires veterinary care. That’s why it’s important to determine the normal shedding pattern of your dog or cat and monitor it for changes.

What is Regular Shedding?

The amount of shedding that is “normal” for your pet depends on many variables, including its breed, anatomy, physiology, and genetics, said Roy Cruzen, DVM, of Phoenix, AZ.

The amount of shedding that is “normal” depends on the breed of dog or cat and an array of variables including anatomy, physiology and genetics, he said. Ideally an owner should determine a pet’s baseline shedding as soon as it is adopted.

“It’s vital to pay close attention to our pet’s health when it is young,” said Jeff Levy, DVM, of New York, NY. “Allergies and other issues can be detected early and some preventative treatments may be available.”

The notion that longhaired dogs and cats shed the most is a fallacy, said Megan Mouser. Mouser is a certified groomer and Andis Co. animal education manager in Milwaukee, WI. Shorthaired animals have denser coats and generally shed more, but the length of their hair makes it less noticeable, she said.

Of course, there are no hard and fast rules, but some dogs and cats are just naturally heavy shedders, explained Cruzen.

“Labrador Retrievers are shedding machines,” said Cruzen. “When a lab comes in the vet clinic for 20 minutes, we have to immediately go in and vacuum. The floor is covered with hair.”

Akitas, Chow Chows, Siberian Huskys, and German Shepherds match the Lab in terms of shedding.

Cat breeds that are generally heavy shedders include Persians, Russian Blues, Maine Coons, and American shorthairs.

Ideally, owners should brush their dogs and cats once a day, but even once a week is helpful to remove excess hair, increase circulation to the skin and bond with the pet, said Mouser.

The Causes Behind Excessive Shedding

There are myriad reasons why a dog or cat sheds excessively. One of the first things to do if it occurs is to look at the animal’s hair. Does it have a healthy sheen? Does the skin beneath the fur appear normal, or is it flaky, dry, or discolored?

Feeding an Imbalanced Diet

“The number one reason for excessive shedding is a poor diet,” said Cruzen. “People go to discount stores, by a 40-pound bag of cheap food, and then see their pets’ shedding increase. Even though the food meets the minimum quality requirements, it may not have enough protein or nutrients for your pet.”

Although you shouldn’t buy the cheapest pet food, you also don’t need to spend $8 a pound, said Cruzen. A quality pet food generally costs about $4 a pound, he estimated.

“Besides the quality of food, the number one pet peeve I have is giving pets gluten-free diets,” said Pete Lands, DVM, of Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania. A grain-free diet may actually cause health issues in the pet, said Lands. “There are very few breeds that are gluten [i.e., grain] intolerant.”

Using the Wrong Shampoo

If the pet sheds excessively but you don’t believe food quality, intolerance, or allergies are to blame, consider grooming.

“I cringe when people tell me they use their own shampoo on animals,” said Mouser. It’s too harsh on their skin and coats.”

“Rinsing is very important,” Mouser went on to explain. “I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve wet a dog’s coat and it lathers [from leftover soap]. I tell people rinse, rinse, rinse, and when you think you’re done, rinse again.”

Stress at Home

All of the doctors who spoke on this agree that excessive shedding can also be caused by stress. If the pet has a major change in routine, has welcomed a new person or pet into the home, or otherwise had change in its routine, the stress from the changes can cause extra shedding.

If eliminating or lessening the stress does not help, a veterinarian will consider the judicious use of drugs, supplements, and even acupuncture, said Cruzen.

Something to keep in mind, however, is that for pets, a visit to the vet is a highly stressful event, said Katie Grzyb, DVM, of One Love Animal Hospital in Brooklyn, NY “Stress is the underlying cause to excessive shedding in the veterinarian’s office. Nine times out of ten an owner will note that their pet is shedding excessively during a visit to the vet.”

Skin Parasites

If your pet is shedding and excessively scratching, it may have fleas, ticks, or mange mites. Those parasites and the itching and scratching they cause can lead to more serious health issues, including inflammation of the skin and secondary skin infections.

“If kittens have fleas, they can actually cause anemia and kill the kitten,” said Joan Vokes, a veterinary technician in Green Acres, FL. “But if your pet has fleas, check with your vet before you use any products.”

Vokes recounted pet owners using over-the-counter products to kill parasites in their pets, only to cause the pet to be violently ill, in some cases with seizures.

Because these parasites can hitch a ride on our clothing or come through screened windows and doors, even indoor cats and dogs can acquire skin parasites, so it’s important to talk to your vet about preventive strategies for all of your pets.

Hormonal Imbalances, Tumors, and Other Underlying Diseases

Excessive shedding may also be a sign of hormonal imbalances. Some breeds shed excessively after giving birth or after spaying or neutering, especially if the surgery occurs when they are older, said Levy.

Shedding on various parts of the body, clumps of shedding, and skin discoloration may also be signs of an array of serious issues, including bacterial infections, ringworm and other fungal infections, thyroid disease, Cushing’s disease, skin allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, and genetically related skin problems.

If the skin of the animal is dark or discolored it could be related to an endocrine imbalance, allergies, or even tumors, said Lands. He advised owners to report any loss of appetite, lethargy, or poor mental state to their veterinarians.

As well as loss of appetite and excessive tiredness, Dr. Grzyb adds that other signs to look for are sudden increase in appetite, including a ravenous appetite, vomiting, or a significant increase in thirst and urination.

“None of this is easy stuff to determine,” said Levy. “The most important thing to do if you suspect your pet has excessive shedding, scratching, or changes in behavior is to consult your veterinarian so we can help you determine the cause and treatment.”

Read More

5 Common Dog Skin Problems

7 Common Skin Problems in Cats

Pulmonary Edema in Dogs

Pulmonary edema is identified as the buildup of fluid in the lungs. It is often associated with pneumonia, although there are many other possible causes. Normal lungs have fluid that is moved from the lungs into the internal space of the body, an on-going process for normal healthy function. Any added pressure in the dog’s lungs can damage  this mechanism, which leads to fluid buildup in the lungs.

If this excess fluid is not removed, edema forms. Damage can occur if this condition is left untreated, but when treated appropriately, the outcome is positive.

Animals of all ages, genders, and breeds can be diagnosed with pulmonary edema. If you would like to learn more about how this disease affects cats, please visit this page in the PetMD health library.

Symptoms and Types 

Some of the most common symptoms of pulmonary edema are:

Dry coughWheezingCrackling noises during breathing (rales)Difficulty breathing (dyspnea)Abnormally fast breathing (tachypnea)Open-mouth breathing

Pulmonary edema affects both the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

Causes 

Some of the most common causes for pulmonary edema are: 

AnemiaPneumoniaCardiomyopathyToo little protein in the blood (hypoproteinemia)Toxins (e.g., smoke and snake venom)An obstruction of the animal’s airwayAlmost drowning (where a high amount of fluid enters the lungs)

Diagnosis 

Upon examination, the following conditions will need to be ruled out for proper treatment:

Upper airway obstructionBronchitisPneumoniaHeartworm diseaseHeart disease

Typically a blood test will be performed to look for abnormalities, as well as an X-ray to view potential signs of pneumonia.

Treatment 

The type of treatment will be dependent upon the severity of the medical condition. Oxygen may be used to help the animal to breathe, while certain fluids may be administered to aid in the flow of fluids within the dog’s body.

Rest is recommended to assist in the dog’s recovery time. Also, diuretics have proven effective at reducing edema, as they work to force excess water and fluids out of the animal’s body.

Living and Management 

This is a condition that has a high recurrence rate, so ongoing management and observation is often recommended and required.

Prevention 

Unfortunately, there are currently no preventive measures for pulmonary edema.