184 CONDITION GUIDES ACROSS SPECIES
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Conditions affecting dogs
32 plain-language guides currently available.
Corneal Ulcers in Dogs and Cats
A corneal ulcer is a wound on the normally clear surface at the front of the eye. Even a small wound is painful; deep or infected ulcers can threaten sight or rupture the eye.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsGlaucoma in Dogs and Cats
Glaucoma is pressure buildup inside the eye that damages the nerve carrying visual information to the brain. Sudden glaucoma is painful and can cause irreversible blindness quickly.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsImmune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia in Dogs and Cats
Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, or IMHA, occurs when the immune system destroys red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen, so rapid destruction can make an animal critically ill.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsImmune-Mediated Thrombocytopenia in Dogs and Cats
Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia means the immune system destroys platelets, the small blood components that help stop bleeding. A very low platelet count can cause bleeding without an obvious injury.
Understand this condition →DogsLeptospirosis in Dogs
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can damage kidneys and liver and sometimes affect the lungs. Infected urine can also expose people, so it is a household health concern.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsPyometra in Dogs and Cats
Pyometra is an infected uterus, usually in an unspayed female dog or cat. Pus and toxins can lead to bloodstream infection and shock; it is a surgical emergency, not a routine heat-cycle discharge.
Understand this condition →DogsIntervertebral Disc Disease in Dogs
Intervertebral disc disease happens when cushioning material between spinal bones degenerates and protrudes, pressing on nerves or the spinal cord. Signs range from pain to paralysis.
Understand this condition →DogsLaryngeal Paralysis in Dogs
Laryngeal paralysis prevents the voice-box opening from widening normally during breathing. It can restrict airflow, especially when a dog is hot, excited or exercising.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsAnal Sac Disease in Dogs and Cats
Anal sac disease affects the small scent sacs beside the anus. Blocked material, inflammation or infection can cause pain; an abscess may rupture through nearby skin.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsPatellar Luxation in Dogs and Cats
Patellar luxation means the kneecap slips out of the groove where it should move. Repeated slipping can alter walking and contribute to joint pain and arthritis.
Understand this condition →DogsCushing’s Disease: Too Much Cortisol
An easy-to-understand dog-owner guide to increased thirst, hunger, panting and coat changes, hormone testing, treatment and safe monitoring.
Understand this condition →DogsAddison’s Disease: Too Little Cortisol
A plain-language guide to a hormone shortage that can cause recurring stomach upset and weakness, including Addisonian crises and lifelong care.
Understand this condition →DogsCanine Infectious Respiratory Disease (Kennel Cough)
Several contagious viruses and bacteria can cause coughing, gagging and nasal discharge in dogs, especially after close contact with other dogs.
Understand this condition →DogsCanine Parvovirus
Parvovirus is a highly contagious, potentially fatal infection that most often causes severe vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration in puppies and incompletely vaccinated dogs.
Understand this condition →DogsGastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat) in Dogs
GDV occurs when the stomach rapidly fills and may twist, cutting off blood flow; it is a true emergency that cannot be treated at home.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsAcute Vomiting and Diarrhea in Dogs and Cats
Sudden vomiting or diarrhea can be mild, but toxins, foreign bodies, pancreatitis, infection and systemic disease can look similar at first.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsUrinary Tract Infections in Dogs and Cats
A bacterial urinary infection can cause painful, frequent urination, but stones, inflammation and obstruction can cause nearly identical signs.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsAnemia in Dogs and Cats
Anemia means there are too few circulating red blood cells; it is a finding with many possible causes, not a diagnosis by itself.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsHigh Blood Pressure in Dogs and Cats
Persistent high blood pressure can damage the eyes, kidneys, brain and heart and often occurs alongside another disease.
Understand this condition →DogsLyme Disease in Dogs
Lyme disease is a tick-borne bacterial infection. A positive antibody test shows exposure, but it does not automatically mean a dog is currently sick or needs antibiotics.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsOsteoarthritis
A chronic joint condition that can affect comfort, movement, activity and quality of life long before an animal obviously cries or stops eating.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsAllergic Skin Disease
Itchy, inflamed skin can involve fleas, environmental allergy, food-related reactions, secondary infection or overlapping causes.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsOtitis Externa: Outer Ear Inflammation
Inflammation of the outer ear canal may involve allergy, yeast, bacteria, mites, moisture, foreign material or an underlying structural issue.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsDiabetes Mellitus
A disorder of blood-sugar regulation that can increase thirst and urination, affect appetite and weight, and require careful veterinary-directed monitoring.
Understand this condition →DogsHypothyroidism in Dogs
Low thyroid hormone function can contribute to weight gain, low energy, skin or coat changes and other signs that overlap with many unrelated conditions.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsPancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas can cause appetite loss, vomiting, abdominal pain, dehydration or subtle illness, with signs differing between dogs and cats.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsSeizure Disorders
Seizures can result from epilepsy, toxins, metabolic problems, brain disease or other causes and require careful veterinary assessment.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsChronic Kidney Disease
Gradual loss of kidney function can change thirst, urination, appetite, body weight and blood pressure, particularly in older animals.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsHeart Disease
Heart conditions can involve valves, heart muscle, electrical rhythm or fluid-related complications; dog and cat warning signs are not identical.
Understand this condition →DogsCruciate Ligament Disease
Injury or degeneration affecting the cranial cruciate ligament can cause hind-limb pain, instability, limping and secondary arthritis.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsDental and Periodontal Disease
Disease affecting the teeth, gums or surrounding bone can cause pain even when an animal continues eating normally.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsOverweight and Obesity
Excess body fat can affect joint comfort, mobility, metabolic health and long-term wellness; the right plan depends on the individual animal.
Understand this condition →SPECIES-SPECIFIC HEALTH EDUCATION
Conditions affecting cats
39 plain-language guides currently available.
Corneal Ulcers in Dogs and Cats
A corneal ulcer is a wound on the normally clear surface at the front of the eye. Even a small wound is painful; deep or infected ulcers can threaten sight or rupture the eye.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsGlaucoma in Dogs and Cats
Glaucoma is pressure buildup inside the eye that damages the nerve carrying visual information to the brain. Sudden glaucoma is painful and can cause irreversible blindness quickly.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsImmune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia in Dogs and Cats
Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, or IMHA, occurs when the immune system destroys red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen, so rapid destruction can make an animal critically ill.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsImmune-Mediated Thrombocytopenia in Dogs and Cats
Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia means the immune system destroys platelets, the small blood components that help stop bleeding. A very low platelet count can cause bleeding without an obvious injury.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsPyometra in Dogs and Cats
Pyometra is an infected uterus, usually in an unspayed female dog or cat. Pus and toxins can lead to bloodstream infection and shock; it is a surgical emergency, not a routine heat-cycle discharge.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsAnal Sac Disease in Dogs and Cats
Anal sac disease affects the small scent sacs beside the anus. Blocked material, inflammation or infection can cause pain; an abscess may rupture through nearby skin.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsPatellar Luxation in Dogs and Cats
Patellar luxation means the kneecap slips out of the groove where it should move. Repeated slipping can alter walking and contribute to joint pain and arthritis.
Understand this condition →CatsStomatitis in Cats
Feline stomatitis is severe, painful inflammation in the mouth, often extending beyond the gums. It is different from simple tartar buildup and can make eating or grooming difficult.
Understand this condition →CatsHypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Cats
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM, thickens the heart muscle and makes filling less effective. Some cats have no outward signs; others develop fluid buildup or blood clots.
Understand this condition →CatsAortic Thromboembolism in Cats
Aortic thromboembolism occurs when a blood clot blocks blood flow to a limb, often at the artery supplying both back legs. It is intensely painful and is commonly associated with heart disease.
Understand this condition →CatsFeline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)
Feline infectious peritonitis, or FIP, is an inflammatory illness associated with feline coronavirus. Most coronavirus-exposed cats do not develop FIP. Disease can affect the abdomen, chest, eyes or nervous system.
Understand this condition →CatsFeline Panleukopenia
Feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious parvovirus infection that damages the intestines and reduces infection-fighting blood cells. Kittens and unvaccinated cats can become critically ill quickly.
Understand this condition →CatsFeline Calicivirus Infection
Feline calicivirus is a contagious virus that commonly affects the mouth and upper respiratory tract. Some infections are mild, while uncommon severe forms can cause widespread illness.
Understand this condition →CatsFeline Herpesvirus Infection
Feline herpesvirus causes respiratory and eye disease and can remain dormant after infection. Stress or other illness can reactivate it, so later flare-ups do not always mean a new exposure.
Understand this condition →CatsCryptococcosis in Cats
Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection usually acquired from environmental organisms. In cats it often affects the nose, but it can spread to eyes, skin or the nervous system.
Understand this condition →CatsEosinophilic Granuloma Complex in Cats
Eosinophilic granuloma complex describes several inflammatory skin and mouth lesions in cats. Eosinophils are immune cells involved in allergic responses; the label is not a diagnosis of the underlying trigger.
Understand this condition →CatsMammary Tumors in Cats
Mammary tumors are lumps in the tissue along a cat's chain of mammary glands. Many feline mammary tumors are malignant, so a small lump deserves prompt investigation rather than watchful waiting.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsAcute Vomiting and Diarrhea in Dogs and Cats
Sudden vomiting or diarrhea can be mild, but toxins, foreign bodies, pancreatitis, infection and systemic disease can look similar at first.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsUrinary Tract Infections in Dogs and Cats
A bacterial urinary infection can cause painful, frequent urination, but stones, inflammation and obstruction can cause nearly identical signs.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsAnemia in Dogs and Cats
Anemia means there are too few circulating red blood cells; it is a finding with many possible causes, not a diagnosis by itself.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsHigh Blood Pressure in Dogs and Cats
Persistent high blood pressure can damage the eyes, kidneys, brain and heart and often occurs alongside another disease.
Understand this condition →CatsUpper Respiratory Infections in Cats
Contagious respiratory infections commonly cause sneezing, eye discharge and nasal congestion, especially in kittens and multi-cat settings.
Understand this condition →CatsConstipation and Megacolon in Cats
Constipation causes difficult or infrequent stool passage; repeated severe episodes can stretch the colon and lead to megacolon.
Understand this condition →CatsHepatic Lipidosis (Fatty Liver) in Cats
When a cat—especially an overweight cat—stops eating, fat can accumulate in the liver and cause life-threatening liver dysfunction.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsOsteoarthritis
A chronic joint condition that can affect comfort, movement, activity and quality of life long before an animal obviously cries or stops eating.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsAllergic Skin Disease
Itchy, inflamed skin can involve fleas, environmental allergy, food-related reactions, secondary infection or overlapping causes.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsOtitis Externa: Outer Ear Inflammation
Inflammation of the outer ear canal may involve allergy, yeast, bacteria, mites, moisture, foreign material or an underlying structural issue.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsDiabetes Mellitus
A disorder of blood-sugar regulation that can increase thirst and urination, affect appetite and weight, and require careful veterinary-directed monitoring.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsPancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas can cause appetite loss, vomiting, abdominal pain, dehydration or subtle illness, with signs differing between dogs and cats.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsSeizure Disorders
Seizures can result from epilepsy, toxins, metabolic problems, brain disease or other causes and require careful veterinary assessment.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsChronic Kidney Disease
Gradual loss of kidney function can change thirst, urination, appetite, body weight and blood pressure, particularly in older animals.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsHeart Disease
Heart conditions can involve valves, heart muscle, electrical rhythm or fluid-related complications; dog and cat warning signs are not identical.
Understand this condition →CatsHyperthyroidism in Cats
Excess thyroid hormone in cats can cause weight loss, increased appetite, increased thirst, restlessness and secondary heart or blood-pressure concerns.
Understand this condition →CatsFeline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
A group of bladder and urethral problems that can cause straining, frequent urination, blood in urine and, in some cats, a life-threatening blockage.
Understand this condition →CatsFeline Asthma
Inflammatory lower-airway disease can cause coughing, wheezing or dangerous breathing distress in cats.
Understand this condition →CatsFeline Leukemia Virus
Feline leukemia virus can affect immune function and long-term health, with testing, vaccination and household planning tailored to the individual cat.
Understand this condition →CatsFeline Immunodeficiency Virus
A feline viral infection that can affect immune function, with testing and long-term care interpreted according to exposure history and individual health.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsDental and Periodontal Disease
Disease affecting the teeth, gums or surrounding bone can cause pain even when an animal continues eating normally.
Understand this condition →Dogs · CatsOverweight and Obesity
Excess body fat can affect joint comfort, mobility, metabolic health and long-term wellness; the right plan depends on the individual animal.
Understand this condition →SPECIES-SPECIFIC HEALTH EDUCATION
Conditions affecting rabbits
12 plain-language guides currently available.
Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease
Rabbit hemorrhagic disease is a highly contagious viral illness that damages the liver and can cause sudden death. The RHDV2 form can affect domestic and wild rabbits.
Understand this condition →RabbitsMyxomatosis in Rabbits
Myxomatosis is a serious viral disease of rabbits that can cause extensive swelling and immune suppression. Severity varies with the virus and the rabbit population, but pet rabbits can become critically ill.
Understand this condition →RabbitsEncephalitozoon cuniculi Infection in Rabbits
Encephalitozoon cuniculi is a microscopic parasite that can affect the rabbit's nervous system, kidneys or eyes. Many exposed rabbits have no signs, so a positive exposure test is not automatically the explanation for illness.
Understand this condition →RabbitsPododermatitis (Sore Hocks) in Rabbits
Rabbit pododermatitis, often called sore hocks, is inflammation or injury on the underside of the feet. Deep infection can involve tendons or bone and is much more serious than mild hair loss.
Understand this condition →RabbitsFlystrike in Rabbits
Flystrike, or myiasis, occurs when fly larvae infest skin or wounds. In rabbits it often starts around a soiled rear end and can become life-threatening very quickly.
Understand this condition →RabbitsCecal Dysbiosis in Rabbits
Cecal dysbiosis means disruption of the microbial community in the rabbit's large fermentation chamber. Soft uneaten cecotropes are different from true watery diarrhea, but both deserve attention if persistent.
Understand this condition →RabbitsRespiratory Disease in Rabbits
Sneezing, nasal discharge, noisy breathing or reduced appetite can reflect infection, dental disease, irritants or another serious rabbit health problem.
Understand this condition →RabbitsUrinary Sludge and Stones in Rabbits
Thick urine sediment, bladder stones and urinary pain can cause straining, wet fur, blood-tinged urine or reduced appetite.
Understand this condition →RabbitsHead Tilt and Balance Disorders in Rabbits
A tilted head, rolling or loss of balance is a neurologic sign—not a diagnosis—and requires prompt assessment.
Understand this condition →RabbitsGastrointestinal Stasis in Rabbits
Reduced movement of food through a rabbit's digestive tract is usually a sign of pain, illness, stress or inappropriate intake and can become critical quickly.
Understand this condition →RabbitsDental Disease in Rabbits
Rabbit teeth grow continuously, and painful crown or root disease may first appear as selective eating, wet chin or smaller droppings.
Understand this condition →RabbitsUterine Disease in Rabbits
Unspayed female rabbits have substantial risk of uterine disease, including cancer, as they age.
Understand this condition →SPECIES-SPECIFIC HEALTH EDUCATION
Conditions affecting small mammals
23 plain-language guides currently available.
Ovarian Cysts in Guinea Pigs
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled structures associated with the ovaries of female guinea pigs. Some produce hormonal changes; others cause problems through their size or pressure on nearby organs.
Understand this condition →Guinea pigsRingworm in Guinea Pigs
Ringworm is a fungal infection of skin and hair, not a worm. Guinea pigs can carry it, and infection can spread to people and other animals.
Understand this condition →ChinchillasDental Disease in Chinchillas
Chinchilla dental disease can involve both the visible incisors and the cheek teeth. Abnormal growth or tooth-root changes can cause pain, impaired eating and complications around the eyes.
Understand this condition →ChinchillasGastrointestinal Stasis in Chinchillas
Gastrointestinal stasis means that normal movement through a chinchilla's digestive tract has slowed. It is usually a consequence of another problem, such as pain or inadequate intake, rather than a complete diagnosis.
Understand this condition →RatsMammary Tumors in Rats
Mammary tumors are common lumps in pet rats. Many are benign growths, but even a benign mass can become large, interfere with movement or ulcerate; not every lump is a mammary tumor.
Understand this condition →RatsRespiratory Disease in Rats
Respiratory disease in rats often involves several interacting infections and environmental factors. It can become chronic; occasional noise should not automatically be treated as harmless.
Understand this condition →HamstersDemodicosis in Hamsters
Demodicosis is excessive proliferation of microscopic Demodex mites in hamster skin. Some mites may be present without illness; widespread disease can reflect an underlying health problem.
Understand this condition →GerbilsSeizures in Gerbils
Some gerbils have inherited susceptibility to seizures, often triggered by stress or handling. A seizure-like episode can also have another cause, so new events deserve assessment.
Understand this condition →Guinea pigsDental Disease in Guinea Pigs
Guinea-pig teeth grow continuously, and dental disease can make chewing painful long before owners see an obvious tooth problem.
Understand this condition →Guinea pigsVitamin C Deficiency in Guinea Pigs
Guinea pigs cannot make vitamin C; deficiency can affect joints, gums, healing and overall strength.
Understand this condition →FerretsInsulinoma in Ferrets
Insulinoma can cause dangerously low blood sugar in ferrets, leading to weakness, staring, drooling, pawing at the mouth or seizures.
Understand this condition →FerretsAdrenal Disease in Ferrets
Ferret adrenal disease commonly causes progressive hair loss and hormonal signs rather than the classic signs seen in dogs.
Understand this condition →FerretsGastrointestinal Foreign Bodies in Ferrets
Ferrets commonly chew rubber, foam and other objects that can block the stomach or intestine.
Understand this condition →HamstersWet Tail and Severe Diarrhea in Hamsters
Wet tail is a rapidly progressive diarrheal illness, especially in young hamsters, and requires same-day veterinary care.
Understand this condition →Hamsters · GerbilsOvergrown or Damaged Teeth in Small Rodents
Rodent incisors grow continuously; injury, misalignment or poor wear can make eating painful and lead to dangerous weight loss.
Understand this condition →HedgehogsOral Disease and Tumors in Hedgehogs
Dental disease and oral tumors are important causes of drooling, mouth bleeding, weight loss and difficulty eating in hedgehogs.
Understand this condition →Sugar glidersMetabolic Bone Disease in Sugar Gliders
Calcium and vitamin imbalance can weaken bones and muscles, causing hind-limb weakness, pain or fractures.
Understand this condition →Guinea pigsRespiratory Disease in Guinea Pigs
Respiratory infection can progress rapidly in guinea pigs and may cause subtle appetite or activity changes before obvious breathing trouble.
Understand this condition →Guinea pigsUrinary Stones in Guinea Pigs
Bladder or urethral stones can cause painful urination, blood in urine and sometimes complete blockage.
Understand this condition →FerretsLymphoma in Ferrets
Lymphoma is a cancer of immune-system cells that can affect lymph nodes, organs, the chest or digestive tract.
Understand this condition →FerretsHeart Disease in Ferrets
Ferrets can develop heart-muscle and valve disorders that cause low stamina, weakness, fluid buildup or breathing trouble.
Understand this condition →HedgehogsMites in Hedgehogs
Skin mites commonly cause itching, flaky skin and quill loss but fungal and other skin diseases can look similar.
Understand this condition →Sugar glidersDental Disease and Facial Abscesses in Sugar Gliders
Dental infection can cause mouth pain, facial swelling and reduced eating and may extend into the jaw or surrounding tissue.
Understand this condition →SPECIES-SPECIFIC HEALTH EDUCATION
Conditions affecting companion birds
15 plain-language guides currently available.
Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD)
Psittacine beak and feather disease, or PBFD, is a viral disease that affects feather growth and can suppress immunity in parrots. It is different from ordinary molting or behavioral feather damage.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsPolyomavirus Infection in Companion Birds
Avian polyomavirus can cause severe illness and sudden death, particularly in young parrots. Adult birds may carry infection with few outward signs.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsProventricular Dilatation Disease (PDD) in Birds
Proventricular dilatation disease, or PDD, damages nerves controlling digestion and sometimes other body systems. It is associated with avian bornavirus, but infection and clinical disease are not the same thing.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsGout in Companion Birds
Gout is buildup of urate crystals in joints or internal tissues. Birds normally eliminate nitrogen waste as uric acid, so kidney dysfunction or dehydration can cause serious problems.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsCandidiasis in Companion Birds
Candidiasis is overgrowth of Candida yeast, usually affecting the mouth, crop or digestive tract of a bird. Yeast detection alone does not always prove clinically important disease.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsBumblefoot in Companion Birds
Bumblefoot, or pododermatitis, is inflammation and sometimes infection of the underside of a bird's foot. Pressure injuries can progress into deep tissue or bone infection.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsCloacal Prolapse in Companion Birds
A cloacal prolapse is tissue protruding from the shared opening used for droppings and reproduction. The exposed tissue can dry, become injured or lose its blood supply.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsVitamin A Deficiency in Companion Birds
Vitamin A deficiency damages protective lining tissues in a bird's mouth, respiratory tract and other organs. It can make infection more likely and is often associated with an unbalanced diet.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsRespiratory Disease in Companion Birds
Tail bobbing, voice change, nasal discharge or breathing effort can worsen quickly because birds often hide illness.
Understand this condition →Companion birds · PoultryEgg Binding and Reproductive Emergencies in Birds
A female bird can develop egg-related disease even without a male; straining and cage-floor sitting require urgent attention.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsFeather-Destructive Behavior in Birds
Feather chewing or plucking may involve medical disease, pain, environment, nutrition and behavior; it is not simply boredom.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsPsittacosis in Companion Birds
Chlamydia psittaci can cause variable illness in birds and can infect people, making veterinary diagnosis and hygiene important.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsFatty Liver Disease in Companion Birds
Excess fat accumulation in the liver can impair function and clotting and is often linked with obesity, unbalanced diets or metabolic disease.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsHeavy Metal Poisoning in Birds
Lead or zinc exposure from household objects, cages, toys or hardware can cause digestive, neurologic and blood-related illness.
Understand this condition →Companion birdsAspergillosis in Birds
Aspergillus fungi can infect the airways and air sacs, especially when birds are stressed, immunocompromised or exposed to heavy mold contamination.
Understand this condition →SPECIES-SPECIFIC HEALTH EDUCATION
Conditions affecting reptiles and amphibians
21 plain-language guides currently available.
Cryptosporidiosis in Reptiles
Reptile cryptosporidiosis is infection by microscopic parasites affecting the stomach or intestine. It can cause chronic illness and is important in collection biosecurity.
Understand this condition →ReptilesInclusion Body Disease in Boas and Pythons
Inclusion body disease in boas and pythons is associated with reptarenavirus infection. Infection may exist before obvious illness, and neurological disease can be severe.
Understand this condition →ReptilesAdenovirus Infection in Bearded Dragons
Adenovirus infection can cause serious illness in bearded dragons, particularly juveniles. Infection can affect growth, digestion and the nervous system; some carriers have few signs.
Understand this condition →ReptilesGout in Reptiles
Gout is deposition of urate crystals in reptile tissues or joints. It can result from inadequate elimination of uric acid and may indicate significant kidney disease.
Understand this condition →ReptilesThermal Burns in Reptiles
Thermal burns occur when a reptile contacts an overheated surface or receives excessive radiant heat. Skin injury can be deeper than it initially appears and may worsen over time.
Understand this condition →ReptilesCloacal Prolapse in Reptiles
A cloacal prolapse is protrusion of tissue from a reptile's vent. The tissue may be intestine, reproductive tissue or another structure, and the treatment depends on what is involved.
Understand this condition →ReptilesEgg-Yolk Coelomitis in Reptiles
Egg-yolk coelomitis is inflammation in the reptile's body cavity caused by reproductive material outside its normal pathway. Infection can also occur, creating a serious internal illness.
Understand this condition →ReptilesAbscesses in Reptiles
Reptile abscesses are localized collections of infection, often containing thick solid material rather than liquid pus. A surface lump can extend deeper than expected.
Understand this condition →AmphibiansRed-Leg Syndrome in Amphibians
Red-leg syndrome is a descriptive name for reddened skin and systemic illness in amphibians, often associated with bacterial infection. Redness alone does not identify the organism or prove the diagnosis.
Understand this condition →AmphibiansRanavirus Infection in Amphibians
Ranaviruses can cause severe disease in amphibians and may also infect certain fish or reptiles. Outbreaks can affect many animals and threaten wild populations.
Understand this condition →AmphibiansDehydration in Amphibians
Dehydration is loss of body water. Amphibians exchange water through their skin, so unsuitable humidity, substrate or water access can cause serious changes in hydration and salt balance.
Understand this condition →AmphibiansAmmonia Toxicity in Amphibians
Ammonia toxicity occurs when waste-related ammonia in an amphibian's water injures skin and other tissues. Toxicity depends on water conditions and species sensitivity; apparently clear water can still be unsafe.
Understand this condition →ReptilesMetabolic Bone Disease in Reptiles
Weak bones and muscles often reflect an imbalance among calcium, vitamin D, ultraviolet-B exposure and species-specific nutrition.
Understand this condition →ReptilesRespiratory Disease in Reptiles
Mucus, open-mouth breathing or unusual posture may reflect infection, poor temperature or another respiratory problem.
Understand this condition →ReptilesAbnormal Shedding in Reptiles
Retained shed is usually a sign to investigate humidity, hydration, nutrition, skin disease or other husbandry problems.
Understand this condition →ReptilesStomatitis (“Mouth Rot”) in Reptiles
Redness, plaques or discharge in a reptile's mouth can indicate painful infection and underlying husbandry or systemic disease.
Understand this condition →AmphibiansSkin Disease and Chytridiomycosis in Amphibians
Because amphibians breathe and regulate fluids through delicate skin, discoloration, abnormal shedding or lethargy can signal serious environmental or infectious disease.
Understand this condition →ReptilesShell Disease in Turtles and Tortoises
Pits, soft areas, discoloration or odor can reflect trauma, infection, burns or husbandry-related shell disease.
Understand this condition →ReptilesInternal Parasites in Reptiles
Reptiles may carry parasites without obvious signs, while heavy burdens can contribute to weight loss, diarrhea or poor growth.
Understand this condition →ReptilesEgg Retention and Dystocia in Reptiles
Female reptiles can retain eggs or have difficulty laying even without contact with a male, and delayed treatment can become life-threatening.
Understand this condition →AmphibiansMetabolic Bone Disease in Amphibians
Calcium, vitamin and lighting imbalance can weaken amphibian bones and muscles and interfere with feeding and movement.
Understand this condition →SPECIES-SPECIFIC HEALTH EDUCATION
Conditions affecting domestic equines
15 plain-language guides currently available.
Equine Recurrent Uveitis
Equine recurrent uveitis is repeated or persistent inflammation inside the eye. Episodes can damage vision even when the eye appears better between flare-ups.
Understand this condition →Domestic equinesAnaplasmosis in Equines
Equine anaplasmosis is a tick-transmitted bacterial infection that affects certain white blood cells. It can produce fever and weakness but does not explain every positive exposure test.
Understand this condition →Domestic equinesLyme Disease in Equines
Lyme disease is associated with infection by Borrelia bacteria transmitted by ticks. Horses can be exposed without becoming ill, so a positive antibody result is not proof that Lyme disease explains current signs.
Understand this condition →Domestic equines · Donkeys · Mules · HorsesHyperlipemia in Horses, Ponies, and Donkeys
Hyperlipemia is excessive fat in the blood during a severe energy shortage; fat can also accumulate in the liver. Donkeys, miniature horses and ponies are particularly vulnerable when they stop eating.
Understand this condition →Domestic equinesEquine Infectious Anemia
Equine infectious anemia, or EIA, is a lifelong viral infection of equids. An infected animal can appear healthy while remaining a source of infection; confirmed cases involve animal-health authorities.
Understand this condition →Domestic equinesPastern Dermatitis (Scratches) in Equines
Pastern dermatitis, often called scratches, is inflammation of skin around the lower limbs. It is a syndrome with several possible causes, rather than one infection with one standard cream.
Understand this condition →Horses · Donkeys · MulesColic in Equines
Colic means abdominal pain, not one disease; some causes are mild while others require immediate surgery.
Understand this condition →Horses · Donkeys · MulesEquine Asthma
Chronic airway inflammation can cause cough, reduced performance and breathing effort, often influenced by dust exposure.
Understand this condition →Horses · Donkeys · MulesPituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID)
PPID is a common endocrine disorder of older equines that may affect coat, muscle, immunity and laminitis risk.
Understand this condition →HorsesEquine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome
Stomach ulcer disease can contribute to poor appetite, behavior change and reduced performance, but these signs are not specific.
Understand this condition →Horses · Donkeys · MulesLaminitis
Laminitis is painful failure of tissues supporting the hoof and is an emergency even when lameness first appears mild.
Understand this condition →Domestic equinesStrangles in Horses
Strangles is a contagious bacterial respiratory disease that commonly causes fever, nasal discharge and swollen lymph nodes.
Understand this condition →Domestic equinesEquine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM)
EPM is a neurologic disease caused by protozoal infection that can produce uneven weakness, incoordination or muscle loss.
Understand this condition →Domestic equinesChoke (Esophageal Obstruction) in Horses
Equine choke is blockage of the esophagus—not the airway—but saliva and feed can enter the lungs, making it an urgent veterinary problem.
Understand this condition →Domestic equinesDental Disease in Horses
Sharp enamel points, diseased teeth and uneven wear can cause pain, weight loss and poor chewing, especially as horses age.
Understand this condition →SPECIES-SPECIFIC HEALTH EDUCATION
Conditions affecting domestic poultry
14 plain-language guides currently available.
Infectious Bronchitis in Chickens
Infectious bronchitis is a contagious coronavirus disease of chickens. It mainly affects the respiratory tract, but some strains damage kidneys or egg production; it is not the same virus as human COVID-19.
Understand this condition →PoultryNewcastle Disease in Poultry
Newcastle disease is a viral disease of birds with forms that range from mild to highly destructive. Virulent forms can cause major flock losses and require official disease-control action.
Understand this condition →PoultryAvian Influenza in Poultry
Avian influenza is infection with influenza viruses affecting birds. Highly pathogenic forms can cause rapid deaths and are important for both animal and human health.
Understand this condition →PoultryFowlpox in Poultry
Fowlpox is a viral disease of chickens and turkeys. The dry form causes skin lesions; the wet form affects the mouth and upper airway and can be more dangerous.
Understand this condition →PoultryInfectious Coryza in Poultry
Infectious coryza is a contagious bacterial respiratory disease, mainly in chickens. Recovered birds may carry infection and introduce it into an unexposed flock.
Understand this condition →PoultryGapeworm Infection in Poultry
Gapeworms are parasites that can attach in a bird's windpipe and obstruct airflow. Gaping is not a diagnosis: heat stress, respiratory infection and other problems can cause similar behavior.
Understand this condition →Companion birds · PoultryEgg Binding and Reproductive Emergencies in Birds
A female bird can develop egg-related disease even without a male; straining and cage-floor sitting require urgent attention.
Understand this condition →PoultryCoccidiosis in Poultry
Coccidia damage the intestine and can cause diarrhea, poor growth, blood in droppings or sudden losses, especially in young birds.
Understand this condition →PoultryRespiratory Disease in Poultry
Coughing, sneezing, facial swelling or open-mouth breathing can involve contagious disease, air quality or multiple infections.
Understand this condition →PoultryBumblefoot in Poultry
Bumblefoot is inflammation or infection of the foot pad, often associated with injury, pressure and environmental conditions.
Understand this condition →PoultryReproductive Disease in Laying Birds
Egg binding, internal laying and reproductive-tract inflammation can cause straining, abdominal enlargement and rapid decline.
Understand this condition →PoultryMites and Lice in Poultry
External parasites can cause irritation, feather damage, reduced production and—when severe—dangerous blood loss.
Understand this condition →PoultryCrop Stasis, Impaction and Sour Crop in Poultry
A crop that stays enlarged can reflect blocked passage, abnormal movement or fermentation and should not be treated by forcing vomiting.
Understand this condition →PoultryMarek's Disease in Chickens
Marek's disease is a contagious viral disease that can cause nerve paralysis, tumors and immune suppression, especially in young chickens.
Understand this condition →SPECIES-SPECIFIC HEALTH EDUCATION
Conditions affecting aquatic animals
13 plain-language guides currently available.
Koi Herpesvirus Disease
Koi herpesvirus disease is a serious viral infection primarily affecting koi and common carp. Survivors may remain infected and later spread the virus.
Understand this condition →Aquatic animalsSpring Viremia of Carp
Spring viremia of carp is a contagious viral disease affecting carp and some other freshwater fish. It is an important aquatic animal-health concern requiring professional containment.
Understand this condition →Aquatic animalsLymphocystis in Fish
Lymphocystis is a viral disease that enlarges cells in fish skin and fins, producing wart-like growths. It is often less immediately dangerous than diseases causing rapid deaths, but appearance alone is not diagnostic.
Understand this condition →Aquatic animalsMonogenean Flukes in Fish
Monogenean flukes are flatworm parasites that attach to fish skin or gills. They can reproduce quickly in confined systems and damage breathing surfaces.
Understand this condition →Aquatic animalsAnchor Worms in Fish
Anchor worms are parasitic crustaceans, not true worms. Adult females may appear as thread-like structures attached to skin, while other life stages remain in the water.
Understand this condition →Aquatic animalsGas Bubble Disease in Fish
Gas bubble disease occurs when excess dissolved gas forms bubbles in fish tissues. It is an environmental problem rather than a contagious infection, and some bubbles are not easily visible.
Understand this condition →Aquatic animalsWater-Quality–Related Illness in Fish
Ammonia, nitrite, oxygen, temperature and pH problems commonly cause illness that can affect many fish at once.
Understand this condition →Aquatic animalsIch (White Spot Disease) in Fish
Ich is a contagious parasite that may cause white spots, flashing and breathing problems, but not every white mark is ich.
Understand this condition →Aquatic animalsFin Erosion and Fin Rot in Fish
Frayed fins can result from injury, aggression, poor water quality or infection and should not be diagnosed from appearance alone.
Understand this condition →Aquatic animalsBuoyancy Disorders in Fish
Floating, sinking or swimming abnormally is a sign with many possible causes—not automatically a swim-bladder infection.
Understand this condition →Aquatic animalsVelvet Disease in Fish
Velvet is a parasitic skin and gill disease that may look like fine gold or rust-colored dust and can spread rapidly.
Understand this condition →Aquatic animalsDropsy and Body Swelling in Fish
Dropsy describes fluid buildup and raised scales; it is a sign of serious internal dysfunction rather than one specific disease.
Understand this condition →Aquatic animalsColumnaris Disease in Fish
Columnaris is a bacterial disease that can damage skin, mouth and gills and may progress quickly in warm, stressed systems.
Understand this condition →SPECIES-SPECIFIC HEALTH EDUCATION
Conditions affecting honeybees
7 plain-language guides currently available.
European Foulbrood in Honeybees
European foulbrood is a bacterial disease of honeybee larvae. It damages brood and can weaken the colony, but must be distinguished from American foulbrood, which has different control implications.
Understand this condition →HoneybeesChalkbrood in Honeybees
Chalkbrood is a fungal disease of honeybee larvae. Infected larvae become hard pale or dark mummies, reducing the number of developing workers.
Understand this condition →HoneybeesSacbrood in Honeybees
Sacbrood is a viral disease of developing honeybees. Affected larvae fail to develop normally and may form fluid-filled sacs or dried remains.
Understand this condition →HoneybeesSmall Hive Beetles in Honeybee Colonies
Small hive beetles are pests whose larvae can damage comb, contaminate stored honey and overwhelm weak colonies. Adult beetles alone do not reveal the severity of an infestation.
Understand this condition →HoneybeesVarroa Mites in Honeybee Colonies
Varroa destructor weakens colonies directly and spreads viruses; visual inspection alone misses important infestations.
Understand this condition →HoneybeesAmerican Foulbrood
American foulbrood is a serious contagious brood disease that can require regulatory action and must not be managed by guesswork.
Understand this condition →HoneybeesNosema Disease in Honeybees
Nosema affects adult bees and may contribute to poor colony performance, but signs are nonspecific and laboratory confirmation matters.
Understand this condition →SPECIES-SPECIFIC HEALTH EDUCATION
Conditions affecting livestock and camelids
15 plain-language guides currently available.
Caseous Lymphadenitis in Sheep and Goats
Caseous lymphadenitis is a chronic bacterial infection of sheep and goats that causes abscesses in lymph nodes or internal organs. External lumps are only part of the disease.
Understand this condition →Cattle · Sheep · GoatsListeriosis in Ruminants
Listeriosis is a bacterial disease that can affect ruminant brains, pregnancy or the whole body. Neurologic disease needs urgent treatment; other illnesses can cause similar circling or imbalance.
Understand this condition →PigsErysipelas in Pigs
Swine erysipelas is a bacterial disease that can cause sudden systemic illness, characteristic skin changes or chronic joint and heart-valve disease. Not every diamond-shaped lesion confirms the diagnosis.
Understand this condition →CamelidsHeat Stress in Llamas and Alpacas
Heat stress occurs when a llama or alpaca cannot lose heat effectively. Heavy fleece, high humidity and limited airflow can contribute, and severe overheating can damage organs.
Understand this condition →Sheep · Goats · Cattle · CamelidsGastrointestinal Parasites in Grazing Livestock
Internal parasites can cause anemia, diarrhea, poor growth and production loss; resistance makes routine blind deworming unsafe.
Understand this condition →Cattle · Sheep · Goats · CamelidsBloat in Ruminants
A rapidly enlarging left abdomen can mean trapped rumen gas and may become fatal by impairing breathing.
Understand this condition →Cattle · Sheep · Goats · Camelids · PigsMastitis in Dairy and Nursing Animals
Mammary-gland inflammation may alter milk and cause pain, reduced production or severe whole-body illness.
Understand this condition →Cattle · Sheep · Goats · Pigs · CamelidsPneumonia in Livestock and Camelids
Respiratory disease can spread through groups and become severe before obvious coughing appears.
Understand this condition →Sheep · Goats · CamelidsPregnancy Toxemia
Late-pregnancy energy imbalance can cause appetite loss, weakness and neurologic signs, especially with multiple fetuses.
Understand this condition →Cattle · Sheep · GoatsFoot Rot and Infectious Lameness
Sudden lameness and swelling between the claws can reflect infection, but hoof lesions have several different causes.
Understand this condition →Livestock · CamelidsJohne's Disease in Ruminants
Johne's disease is a chronic contagious intestinal infection that causes progressive weight loss and production decline.
Understand this condition →Livestock · CamelidsCoccidiosis in Young Livestock
Coccidia can damage the intestine of young animals, causing poor growth, diarrhea and sometimes severe dehydration or neurologic signs.
Understand this condition →LivestockKetosis in Dairy Cattle
Ketosis occurs when a cow's energy demand exceeds intake around early lactation, leading to excess ketone production and reduced performance.
Understand this condition →LivestockUrinary Calculi in Male Sheep and Goats
Urinary stones can block the narrow urethra of male sheep and goats, causing severe pain and a rapidly life-threatening emergency.
Understand this condition →CamelidsMeningeal Worm in Camelids
Meningeal worm larvae can migrate through the nervous system of llamas and alpacas, causing weakness and incoordination.
Understand this condition →These guides do not diagnose an individual animal.
Several conditions can produce the same symptom. The right diagnosis and treatment depend on examination, testing, medical history, species, husbandry and the veterinary team's professional judgment.
Review emergency warning signs →Reading a condition guide after assessment
A condition guide is most useful when it helps explain a veterinary finding, prepare for an investigation, or understand the goals of care. Similar signs can occur with different diseases, so matching one observation to an article is not confirmation. Read the overview together with diagnostic limitations, treatment context, and emergency warnings. Ask the veterinarian what is confirmed for the individual animal and which parts of the general guide apply to its current stage and needs.
Know what is normal for this individual
The most useful home observations compare an animal with its own usual pattern. Record intake, output, weight where practical, activity, and comfortable function at consistent times. Normal variations differ between species and life stages. A brief record can reveal a trend that is difficult to remember accurately or reproduce during an appointment. It also helps assess treatment response. Sudden serious changes still need immediate advice; collecting a perfect record should never delay care.
Resources must be usable by each animal
Providing food, water, bedding, and space does not guarantee that every animal can use them comfortably. Pain, age, hierarchy, or enclosure layout can limit access. Observe individuals during ordinary activity rather than judging the environment only by what is present. Adjustments may include easier access, appropriate surfaces, or separation during feeding, depending on the species. If an animal is declining, identify whether it is consuming and moving normally while arranging assessment instead of assuming a full bowl establishes adequate care.