Upper respiratory infections in cats, particularly young cats, is quite common and typically referred to as feline upper respiratory disease complex. There are several causative agents associated with the complex including viral and/or bacterial organisms and they are highly contagious organisms. The common organisms are Feline Herpesvirus, Feline Calicivirus, Bordetella, Mycoplasma, Chlamydia felis. Diagnosis of [...]
Food bloat is a medical condition that develops after a dog (rarely cats) consumes a large amount of ingesta leading to stomach dilation. This condition may develop due to accidental ingestion of a large amount of dog or cat food, treats, trash, etc. When the stomach becomes so dilated it can result in discomfort and [...]
A urethral obstruction (urinary blockage) is a common medical emergency seen in felines. It is more common to see in males than females due to their urethral anatomy. When the flow of urine is blocked, dangerous acid base imbalances occur and electrolytes are not expelled from the body (potassium) which can cause cardiac arrhythmias and [...]
Seeing your pet suddenly limp or favor a leg can be both alarming and heartbreaking. Whether it comes on gradually or appears after a sudden yelp during play, limping often raises urgent questions: Is it serious? Should I wait and monitor—or head straight to the emergency vet? At Animal Urgent Care of Oconomowoc, we know [...]
Whether it’s a torn nail from a zoomies mishap or a scuffle at the dog park, pet injuries tend to happen when you least expect them. One minute everything’s fine—the next, your dog is limping, or your cat is hiding and refusing dinner. While some accidents are minor, others require immediate veterinary care. At Animal [...]
Even the healthiest pets can have an “off” day—but what happens when a skipped meal or a sluggish afternoon turns into something more persistent? For pet parents, knowing when to worry can be difficult. Lethargy and appetite loss are two of the most common yet nonspecific signs of illness in dogs and cats, and [...]
As summer temperatures rise, the risk of heat-related illnesses in pets becomes a significant concern. Pets, unlike humans, have limited methods to cool down, primarily relying on panting and minimal sweating through their paws. This can make them more susceptible to overheating, leading to conditions such as heat exhaustion, dehydration, and potentially life-threatening heatstroke. Understanding [...]
Pets explore the world with their mouths—especially puppies and kittens. But when a moment of curiosity turns into a medical emergency, knowing how to act can mean the difference between a full recovery and a life-threatening complication. Foreign object ingestion is one of the most common—and preventable—reasons pets end up in the emergency room. This [...]
Male Cats & Urinary Blockages: What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know A urinary blockage in a male cat is more than uncomfortable—it’s a medical emergency. Left untreated, it can cause kidney failure, severe pain, and even death within 24 to 48 hours. If you’ve ever seen your cat straining in the litter box or [...]
Understanding Pet Emergencies: When to Seek Help for Vomiting and Diarrhea Common Digestive Issues in Pets Vomiting and diarrhea are among the most common health concerns pet owners face. While occasional digestive upset may not be alarming, persistent symptoms can indicate a more serious underlying issue. Recognizing when to seek veterinary care is crucial [...]
