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Possible Health Issues in Common Dog Breeds

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Image: Pixabay

Common health problems in dogs

The fortunes of dogs and humans have been mutually entangled for millennia. Numerous distinct breeds of Canis lupus familiaris exist today, owing to dogs’ remarkable adaptability and genetic fluidity. Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and temperaments, and this diversity has been achieved through selective breeding.

Unfortunately, this practice occasionally yields undesirable results, including a higher incidence of certain hereditary defects, deformities, or infirmities within a given breed. Here are 12 common dog breeds and their potential health issues.

1. Labrador Retriever

America’s favorite dog breed is prized for its high intelligence and affectionate nature. In many ways, Labs are perfect family dogs: loyal, gentle, and playful. Health issues with this energetic breed are relatively few, provided the animal gets plenty of daily exercise. Under-exercised pets are prone to weight gain and an increased risk of joint disease due to obesity. Labs are also often genetically prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Other inherited diseases can include eye disorders such as progressive retinal atrophy, which can cause blindness.

2. German Shepherd

Another contender for America’s favorite dog breed, German Shepherds are exceptionally intelligent and easily trained. They excel at guard duty, but require plenty of stimulation and exercise to maintain optimal health. German Shepherds are prone to hereditary hip dysplasia, a deformation of the hip socket that may lead to arthritis or lameness. Degenerative myelopathy is also a common condition among German Shepherds. This is an untreatable disease that results in progressive paralysis.

3. Basset Hound

With their droopy ears and sad-sack eyes, these adorable dogs are plagued by problems related to their most endearing qualities. Their droopy skin may interfere with vision. Their large, floppy ears are prone to infections and require regular inspection and cleaning. And they have a penchant for constant, enthusiastic sniffing (made all the easier by their short legs). Basset hounds can suffer from intervertebral disc disease, which is a disease of the spine. This condition can make movement difficult and painful if left untreated.

4. Jack (& Parson) Russell Terriers

These highly energetic, intelligent terriers are well known for their relatively good overall healthand notable longevity. While some larger breeds may live an average of 10 to 12 years, Jack Russells (and closely related Parson Russell Terriers) may live 14 to 16 years, provided they receive adequate, regular exercise. Inherited diseases include lens luxation, which may result in loss of vision.

5. Lhasa Apso

Experts describe these elegant dogs as “robust,” but the Lhasa requires regular eye care to maintain optimal health. Constant tearing can be expected in this breed. The runny fluid must be gently cleaned from the eyes on a routine basis with isotonic (mild saltwater) solution. The Lhasa’s long flowing coat requires extensive brushing and combing to avoid snags and tangles. This breed is also prone to a form of hereditary kidney disease.

6. Irish Setter

Although their popularity is presently waning, Irish Setters are still ranked among the top 10 breeds for playfulness and affection. These lovable redheads are considered hardy, but some hereditary diseases do occur. Irish setters can experience a variety of conditions including hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, bloat, epilepsy, and bone cancer.

7. Yorkshire Terrier

Known for possessing outsized personalities in an undersized package, “Yorkies” have flounced into American’s hearts. They are the third most popular breed in America. With silky blue/tan coats and entitled terrier attitudes, they relish their roles as miniature divas. Yorkies are prone to digestive problems. Their diet should be carefully monitored. As with other toy breeds, tracheal collapse is possible. Clinical signs include a cough and can be exacerbated by a collar. A hereditary defect, portosystemic shunt, may decrease liver function and cause toxins to accumulate in the blood. This can lead to behavioral and neurological problems.

8. Dalmatian

Patient, gentle, and hardy, Dalmatians are famous for their association with firemen, and as the fictional heroes in a series of popular Disney movies. The most common hereditary defect in this breed is deafness, although reputable breeders are working to eradicate this problem. Dalmatians also have a tendency to develop kidney or bladder stones, a condition called urolithiasis. This common problem may require special diet or surgery to correct.

9. Cocker Spaniel

These favorites are known for their flowing coats, but owning a supermodel’s tresses comes at a price. Cocker Spaniels require frequent bathing and brushing to keep their long hair free of tangles. Cocker Spaniels are susceptible to eye disorders, including cataracts and glaucoma, as well as heart disease, epilepsy, and liver disease. Their ears must also be cleaned regularly to prevent ear infections.

10. Pug

Familiar for their flat, pushed-in face, pugs are generally a healthy breed that lives a long life. While the flat-fronted face is part of their charm, it can lead to breathing problems, which may develop into snoring at night or difficulty breathing in hot weather and humidity. The pug prefers living its days as a house companion, steering clear of extremely hot or cold temperatures. However, moderate exercise is still essential, as this breed is known to become overweight.

11. Chihuahua

Made famous by Taco Bell commercials, this tiny breed weighs in around 6 pounds or less. A gentle breed that will pair well with an equally gentle owner, Chihuahuas can live a relatively long life for dogs — around 12 to 15 years. The Chihuahua is not exempt from health concerns, however. The most common is patellar luxation, which can lead to arthritis. Other medical concerns include cardiac and eye disease.

12. Boxer

Highly athletic, the Boxer is rumored to have acquired its name from the way it uses its front paws for nearly every activity, seeming to bat at objects as if sparring. This compact and muscular breed is susceptible to a number of conditions, though. Boxers are prone to heart-related and thyroid problems, as well as skin allergies. Other medical concerns include cancer, bloat, and elbow dysplasia.

Takeaway

When considering bringing home a new puppy or adult dog, be sure to work with a reputable breeder who is honest and open about the health lines of their dogs. Don’t purchase a puppy without documentation that the parents were cleared of health issues. If adopting from a shelter, be sure to take your new dog to the vet soon after adoption.

Whether bred for their protectiveness and vigilance or their suitability to the pampered life, there is a breed of dog suitable for virtually every environment and type of owner. Learn more about choosing the right dog breed for your lifestyle, and get tips to keep your dog happy and healthy.

Source: Health Line

Senile Moments in Felines

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Image: Pixabay

What is CDS in Cats?
As your kitty ages, you may unknowingly accept symptoms of senility as par for the course of aging, however feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome is now classified as a medical condition. A sad but true statistic is that 50% of cats older than 15 years of age tend to suffer from some degree of dementia, otherwise known as CDS.

Feline CDS is caused by the production of a wax-like protein sediment (beta amyloid) in the brain. The syndrome is associated to Alzheimer’s disease in humans as they both display similar physical and behavioural characteristics.

Symptoms:

Disorientation

  • appears confused and lost
  • doesn’t remember people or places that were once familiar to them
  • roams mindlessly
  • becomes trapped in corners
  • gets lost in their once familiar home

Changes in Social Interactions

  • withdraws from attention
  • social relations with other animals change
  • doesn’t greet family members like they once did
  • disregard for meal times/appetite loss
  • no longer grooms themselves

Changes in Sleep Cycles

  • sleep cycles are either reversed or interrupted

House Soiling

  • unable to recall litter box training
  • unable to recall where the litter box is located
  • unable to recall what to do once in the litter box

Compulsive Behaviour

  • wails for no apparent reason
  • paces continuously
  • mindlessly licks objects
  • experiences tremors
  • restlessness and/or anxiety

Diagnosing CDS
Diagnosing CDS is more challenging than one would expect. CDS takes on symptoms similar to that of other diseases such as arthritis, kidney disease, deafness, blindness, brain tumors or hyperthyroidism, therefore these conditions must first be ruled out before CDS can be accurately diagnosed.

Treatment
Unfortunately, there is no cure for CDS. However, your veterinarian may prescribe certain medications and behavioural therapy to increase your cat’s cognitive function and slow down any associated decline.

Feed your kitty a wholesome diet enriched with antioxidants, vitamin E, beta carotene and essential fatty acids.

Rearrange your home environment to better accommodate your cat’s condition, such as:

  • placing numerous food and water bowls as well as litter boxes around the home so they are more accessible to your kitty
  • adhering to regular feeding times so your kitty’s expectations to a certain routine are met
  • replacing old litter trays with wider, more shallow rims so your kitty can access them easily. Using sand-like litter is also gentler on their sensitive aging paw pads
  • ensuring any changes to their environment are done incrementally so to avoid your kitty from developing unnecessary anxiety and stress
  • preparing soft and cosy resting spots throughout the home, preferably with a ramp or stairs so your kitty can easily access their numerous safe havens
  • imparting as much love that your cat desires but don’t smother them as this may agitate or stress them out

Prevention
Studies have proven that by physically and mentally stimulating your cat from an early age, you are able to prevent or even offset the negative effects of dementia by keeping their brain young and active. Try some of the following to stimulate your kitty:

  • Provide your cat with mentally-engaging entertainment such as placing bird feeders and bird baths outside your windows for your cat’s amusement.
  • Cat trees are a great source for climbing, discovering and resting.
  • By teaching your cat to walk on a leash, you’re able to expose them to an array of new opportunities, places and discoveries.
  • Food-incentive treats are a terrific way to teach your cat new tricks that stimulate both their mind and body.
  • Disperse limited amounts of cat food around the home in bowls so your kitty is encouraged to seek the food.
  • Puzzle toys reward the cat for their interest by releasing treats. This behaviour imitates that of felines’ natural hunting tendencies and will keep your kitty stimulated both mentally and physically.

Feline senility can be a very traumatic experience, not only for you, but your cat too. Remember to continuously invigorate and entertain your kitty throughout their life so their bodies remain agile and able and their minds sharp. When your cat reaches their “geriatric” years, it’s essential to realise that undesired actions are unintentional on their part and they too, are undergoing stress and frustrations, if not more, than what you are, so acceptance, patience and compassion are key.

Written for inFURmation
by Taliah Williamson

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Disclaimer: The information produced by Infurmation is provided for general and educational purposes only and does not constitute any legal, medical or other professional advice on any subject matter. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always seek the advice of your vet or other qualified health care provider prior to starting any new diet or treatment and with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you suspect that your pet has a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.

Defying Deafness in Pets

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Deafness in Pets

Being the resilient little creatures they are, pets won’t allow losing their hearing abilities to get them down and neither should you. Animals are intuitive, intelligent beings and if taught with patience and consistency, they can learn from an early age to cope very well with their remaining four senses.

What is Deafness?

Deafness can be either partial or complete loss of your pet’s ability to hear. It’s far more common than you might think and while some animals may sadly be born with this impairment, it can also emerge later in life.

Causes

A loss of hearing in cats and dogs can occur due to the following reasons:

  • Conduction: Inflammation of the ear which hampers sound waves from reaching the nerves in the ears.
  • Nerve-related issues: Elderly pets may endure deterioration to the nerve.
  • Disease: Illnesses such as cancer and trauma may contribute to deafness.
  • Inadequate development: This affects part of the ear where nerve receptors are responsible for hearing, leading to an accumulation of fluid on and resultant damage to certain areas of the brain responsible for hearing.
  • Drugs ad Toxins: Administration of certain drugs such as antiseptics, chemotherapy and antibiotics can cause hearing impairments.
  • Genetics: Some breeds of canines are more susceptible to hearing loss, such as German Shepherds, Dalmatians, Cocker Spaniels and Boston Terriers, amongst others.

Symptoms

Watch out for the following indicators associated with hearing loss in pets:

  • gradually becoming unresponsive to sounds
  • stops responding to their name
  • seems to be unaware of loud sounds in their surroundings

As soon as you notice any of the above symptoms, it is best to consult your vet immediately.

Diagnosis

Deafness in puppies and kittens maybe a consequence of hereditary defects however, diagnosis in older animals would usually be based on identifying the underlying causes such as cancer and inflammation. Hearing tests and bacterial cultures are the most common diagnostic tools used to measure the onset of hearing loss.

Treatment

While deafness at birth is unfortunately irreversible, medical or surgical treatment methods can be prescribed depending on the extent of inflammation. Your vet may also recommend a special hearing aid for your pet. Ensure that you follow the treatment plan provided by your vet for addressing hearing loss caused by inflammation and restrict your pet’s physical activities during this treatment period. 

Helping and Caring for Hearing Impaired Pets

A deaf pet should not have to compromise on their quality of life. As their pet parent, you can play an active role in making your fur child’s life more comfortable and contented by:

  • investing in a secure fence to restrict your pet from venturing outside without your supervision (animals with audible impairments are oblivious to oncoming vehicles and this may have a devastating outcome)
  • employing the use of vibrating collars, leashes as well as tags and microchips which can help you locate your buddy in case they get lost
  • ensuring they have a tag on their collar saying, “I’m Deaf”.
  • informing others in your neighbourhood about your pet’s hearing impediment
  • patiently teaching your loyal love non-verbal cues from an early age. While your pet may be hard of hearing, it’s highly likely that their other four senses function at a heightened level to compensate for their hearing impairment. This makes them extremely alert and responsive to people’s body gestures for visual and tactile prompts, such as:
    • getting their attention by waving your hand or aiming a flashlight in their direction (avoiding the eyes) if they aren’t looking at you
    • using touching cues to catch their attention by gently pulling on their leash or softly touching their back
    • making full use of your facial expressions as pets are incredibly intuitive at reading faces. If you’re pleased with them, smile. If not, frown. That’s all it takes for them to get the picture.
    • With this said, never alarm your pet, especially whilst sleeping. Pets with hearing impairments have especially sensitive skin and are incredibly responsive to vibrations. Firmly stomping on the floor or a gentle caress on their body should be able to wake them peacefully.
  • patiently teaching your pet sign language or hand gestures from an early age, so you are prepared to communicate with them throughout their lives without relying on verbal cues, whether they are hearing impaired or not. These cues can be taught by:
    • demonstrating the action, such as tapping their back
    • drawing their interest with a treat, moving it to their nose and up to your eyes to encourage them to make eye contact with you
    • signalling your positive reinforcement sign once eye contact is made and treat your pet for their successful efforts. Treats can eventually be phased out once they’ve got the knack of a particular signal.
    • ensuring each family member is trained to use consistent signals so not to confuse your pet. It’s highly recommended to use the service of a qualified trainer to better equip you, your family and of course, your precious fur baby with the tools to ensure you make the best of your pet’s disability.

Written for inFURmation
by Taliah Williamson