Cat diseases

Roundworms in cats

Roundworms in cats

The term "roundworms" in cats primarily refers to two species: Toxocara cati and Toxascaris leonina. In practice, Toxocara cati is the most common. Infection typically occurs through the ingestion of infectious eggs from the environment, via prey animals (mice, birds), or—in kittens—through their mother's milk. Once ingested, the larvae develop in the intestines, migrate through the body, and eventually mature into adult, spaghetti-like worms in the small intestine. These adult worms produce large numbers of eggs, which are excreted in the feces and pollute the environment. This completes the infection cycle.

Roundworms in cats Read More »

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats

As a practicing veterinarian, I see hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats very frequently – it's the most common heart disease in this species. It's characterized by a concentric thickening of the left ventricular wall without any other underlying condition that could explain this appearance. Unlike secondary heart conditions (e.g., hyperthyroidism or acromegaly), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats involves structurally altered heart muscle cells that are disorganized (myocardial "disarray") and do not function normally. This leads to a stiffer ventricle, reduced filling during diastole, and often an enlargement of the left atrium.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Cats Read More »

Paraesophageal abscess

Paraesophageal abscess

As a veterinarian, I am frequently confronted with complex chest diseases where a thorough diagnosis and prompt treatment determine the prognosis. A typical example is a paraesophageal abscess – a collection of pus in the tissue adjacent to the esophagus. A paraesophageal abscess usually develops as a result of a small perforation of the esophagus, often caused by swallowed foreign bodies (e.g., bones, sticks, fishhooks) or by secondary infections in the mediastinum. Even wood splinters that migrate easily from the throat or tongue can travel caudally along tissue fascia and cause a paraesophageal abscess near the esophagus. We see the interplay of a foreign body, local inflammation, bacterial colonization, and an encapsulated pus-filled cavity relatively frequently in dogs, whereas it is less common in cats.

Paraesophageal Abscess Read More »

Cat has poor eyesight

Cat has poor eyesight

As a veterinarian, I often see that owners only realize their cat's vision is poor quite late. Cats can compensate for vision problems for a long time – thanks to their excellent sense of smell, touch, and hearing. But the earlier intervention occurs, the better the prognosis and quality of life. This comprehensive guide explains clearly how to recognize that your cat has poor vision, what the typical causes are, what the examination at the veterinarian's office entails, what therapies are available, and how to make everyday life safe for your cat. I also provide links to reputable international specialist sources so you can read more in-depth information.

Cat has poor eyesight Read More »

Development of tumors

Development of tumors

As a veterinarian, I am confronted daily with questions about the development of tumors in dogs and cats. The term tumor initially simply means "swelling"; however, in a medical context, we usually speak of a neoplasm, that is, newly formed tissue that escapes normal control. In order to make informed decisions—from early detection to treatment—it is crucial to understand how tumors develop biologically and what influencing factors play a role in our pets.

Development of Tumors Read More »

Diseases of the Norwegian Forest Cat

Diseases of the Norwegian Forest Cat

The Norwegian Forest Cat is considered a robust, original breed of cat originating from the forests of Scandinavia. Its thick coat, powerful muscles, and natural resilience make it a popular family cat. However, even this natural breed is subject to typical hereditary diseases and health risks that every cat owner should be aware of.
In this article, as a veterinarian, I explain the most common diseases of the Norwegian Forest Cat, discussing diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis, and showing you how to keep your cat healthy.

Diseases of the Norwegian Forest Cat Read More »

Dietary treatment of chronic kidney disease

Dietary treatment of chronic kidney disease

Dietary treatment of chronic kidney disease in cats is a key component in improving the quality of life and prolonging survival in affected animals. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common causes of death in middle-aged and older cats. Targeted nutritional therapy supports kidney function, reduces complications, and sustainably slows the progression of the disease. In this article, dedicated pet owners and students will learn comprehensively how to optimally design dietary treatment for chronic kidney disease in cats—from causes and symptoms to diagnosis and treatment, prevention, aftercare, and current research findings.

Dietary treatment of chronic kidney disease Read More »

Urinary stones Siamese

Urinary stones Siamese

Urinary stones in Siamese cats pose a serious health challenge that both dedicated pet owners and aspiring veterinarians should understand. This condition can significantly affect the urinary tract of Siamese cats and requires targeted diagnostics and individually tailored treatment approaches. Below, you'll learn everything you need to know about the causes, symptoms, diagnostics, and treatment options for urinary stones in Siamese cats, as well as current research findings.

Urinary stones Siam Read More »

Pancreatitis Coon

Pancreatitis Coon

Coon Pancreatitis – Symptoms, Diagnosis, Therapy & Research Coon pancreatitis is a serious disease that occurs particularly frequently in the Maine Coon cat breed. For dedicated pet owners and veterinary students, it is essential to understand the specifics of this disease in this breed. In this comprehensive article, you will learn everything you need to know about the definition, the

Pancreatitis Coon Read More »

Diabetes Shorthair

Diabetes Shorthair

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by a disorder of glucose metabolism. In the British Shorthair, diabetes usually manifests itself through insulin resistance or insulin deficiency. Insulin is the central hormone for regulating blood sugar levels. If insulin is missing or malfunctions, blood sugar levels rise, leading to various complications.

Diabetes Shorthair Read More »

Arthritis cat

Arthritis cat

Cat Arthritis – Symptoms, Diagnosis, Therapy & Research Arthritis is a common joint disease that is also becoming increasingly prevalent in cats. Cat arthritis primarily affects older animals, but can occur at different stages of life and due to various causes. It is important for pet owners and veterinary students to recognize the symptoms early in order to initiate targeted treatment.

Arthritis Cat Read More »

Otitis Siam

Otitis Siamese cats

The health of our Siamese cats is important to us. Especially with specific diseases like otitis in Siamese cats, in-depth knowledge is essential for early detection of symptoms and targeted treatment. In this article, dedicated pet owners and students will learn everything they need to know about the causes, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options for otitis in Siamese cats. This way, you can ensure the long-term well-being of your furry friends.

Otitis Siamese cats Read More »

Gastritis in Maine Coons

Gastritis in Maine Coons

The Maine Coon is one of the most popular cat breeds worldwide, distinguished by its distinctive appearance and friendly nature. Despite their robust nature, Maine Coons are also susceptible to various diseases – one of which is gastritis. The topic of gastritis in Maine Coons is becoming increasingly important in veterinary practice, as early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial for the animals' well-being. In this comprehensive article, dedicated pet owners and students will learn everything they need to know about the causes, symptoms, diagnostics, and treatments of gastritis in Maine Coons, supplemented by current research findings and practical FAQs.

Gastritis in Maine Coons Read More »

Urinary stones shorthair

Urinary stones shorthair

Urinary stones are a common urological condition in cats, and they also play a significant role in British Shorthairs. The term "urinary stones in shorthairs" refers to the formation of mineral deposits in the urinary tract of this breed. It is essential for dedicated pet owners and veterinary students to understand the specifics of this condition in British Shorthairs. This comprehensive article provides you with everything you need to know about the causes, symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options – well-founded, practical, and up-to-date.

Urinary stones shorthair Read More »

Scroll up