8 Pet Conditions that Require Lifelong Treatment

Wouldn’t life be grand if every medical problem we had was solved in a single visit to the doctor? Sadly that isn’t the case, neither in pets nor in people. While some medical conditions resolve and never come back, pets are prone to a variety of chronic diseases that must be managed rather than cured over the lifetime of the pet. Here are eight of the most common chronic conditions we treat in veterinary practice: 

Diabetes

Diabetes is found in both dogs and cats and can quickly become life-threatening if not managed properly. Diabetes occurs when the body either fails to produce insulin or stops responding to insulin the bloodstream. Insulin helps the body move energy in the form of glucose from the blood into cells; in diabetics, that glucose remains in the bloodstream and starves the body of energy.

Kidney Failure

Chronic kidney failure is found in both dogs and cats, though it is more frequently diagnosed in our feline friends. No one is entirely sure why pets develop kidney disease; while infections and toxicities can cause an overwhelming acute kidney failure, many cases occur gradually over time for no apparent reason at all.

The earliest sign of kidney disease most owners notice is an increase in drinking and urination; this happens because the kidneys are unable to properly concentrate urine and the body is fighting a constant state of dehydration. As kidney disease progresses, owners may notice a decreased appetite, unkempt coat, vomiting and weight loss.

While kidney disease cannot be reversed, medical management can slow down the rate of progression. Your veterinarian may recommend a lower-protein diet as well as fluids to administer at home. Some pets benefit from medications to help counteract the symptoms of disease. With proper management, many kidney patients live well into old age

Heart Disease

Heart disease is found in both dogs and cats. In dogs, the most common form is congestive heart failure. This may be caused by a leaky heart valve or diseases of the heart muscle itself. The most common symptoms noted by owners are coughing and difficulty breathing due to fluid accumulation in the lungs, fatigue and swelling in the abdomen or limbs.

In cats, the most common form of heart disease is called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, an abnormal thickening of the left ventricle. While all breeds can be affected, some breeds such as Maine coons and Persians may be predisposed. It is also associated with hyperthyroidism. Symptoms can be subtle and include loss of appetite, fatigue or breathing problems.

In both dogs and cats, heart disease is diagnosed with imaging such as x-rays and ultrasound. The changes to the heart are permanent and treatment comes in the form of life-long medications to reduce strain on the heart, improve the heart’s ability to pump, and to control the pet’s blood pressure. Many pets also benefit from sodium-restricted diets.