Diseases, infections, and other scary conditions to protect your pets against.
Our beloved pets, whether they have fur, feathers, or scales, can face a range of health issues just as humans do. Being aware of potential health concerns is the responsibility of every pet-parent. When you’re prepared, you can ensure the well-being of your companion.
Dogs
Canine Parvovirus (CPV): A highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects puppies and unvaccinated dogs. It can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhoea, and dehydration. CPV can be fatal if left untreated.
Canine Distemper: A viral disease that affects a dog's respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. It can cause a range of symptoms, from nasal discharge and coughing to seizures and paralysis.
Heartworm Disease: A disease which is transmitted by mosquitoes and can affect a dog’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels. It can lead to severe heart and lung damage if left untreated.
Arthritis: A common condition in older dogs. It is characterised by joint inflammation and pain. It can significantly impact a dog's mobility and overall quality of life.
Cats
Feline Leukaemia: A contagious virus that affects a cat's immune system, making them susceptible to infections and certain types of cancer. It's a leading cause of illness and death in cats.
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): Often referred to as "feline AIDS." It weakens a cat's immune system, making them more vulnerable to infections. FIV-infected cats can lead relatively normal lives with proper care.
Chronic Kidney Disease: A common condition in older cats, characterised by a gradual loss of kidney function. It can lead to dehydration, weight loss, and other serious health issues if not managed correctly.
Birds
Psittacosis: A bacterial infection, also known as parrot fever, that can be transmitted from birds to humans. It can cause flu-like symptoms in people, while infected birds may exhibit respiratory issues.
Avian Polyomavirus: It affects various species of birds, including parrots and budgies. It can lead to a range of symptoms, from feather abnormalities to organ failure.
Reptiles
Metabolic Bone Disease: A condition often seen in reptiles such as turtles and iguanas. It results from a calcium deficiency, leading to weakened bones, muscle tremors, and difficulty moving.
Respiratory Infections: Commonly found in reptiles and can be caused by factors such as improper humidity and temperature levels in their enclosures. Symptoms include wheezing, nasal discharge, and lethargy.
Small Mammals
Dental Disease: Dental issues are common in small mammals, particularly in rabbits and guinea pigs. Overgrown teeth can cause painful abscesses, difficulty eating, and extreme nutritional deficiencies.
Gastrointestinal Stasis: A condition where a small mammal's digestive system slows down or stops functioning. It can be caused by diet issues and can lead to severe discomfort, bloating, and even death.
Zoonotic Diseases
It's important to note that some diseases can be transmitted from pets to humans. These zoonotic diseases include:
Rabies: Transmitted through bites or saliva, rabies is a deadly viral disease affecting mammals, including dogs and cats.
Salmonella: Reptiles, such as turtles and iguanas, can carry and transmit Salmonella bacteria, causing gastrointestinal illness in humans.
Ringworm: Cats and dogs can transmit this fungal infection to humans, leading to skin rashes and itching.
Toxoplasmosis: Cats can spread Toxoplasma parasites through their faeces, posing a risk to pregnant women and individuals with a weakened immune systems.
Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent many of these illnesses. Additionally, practising good hygiene and safety measures can reduce the risk of zoonotic diseases for both pets and their loving parents.
Last, but not least, having the right pet insurance plan will give you peace of mind and ensure your pet’s health.
