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Carpal laxity is a condition in which the carpus has an abnormal or excessive range of motion. Carpal laxity can show up in one of two ways: carpal hyperextension or carpal flexion. The underlying cause of carpal laxity has not been definitively determined but may be caused by nutritional factors (specifically excessive caloric intake and/or excessive calcium intake), genetic factors, and being raised on slippery flooring surfaces. Signs of carpal laxity may be seen at any time from 6 weeks of age onward, but the condition is most commonly noted between three and six months of age. Activity modification is often recommended for affected puppies by keeping them off slippery surfaces. Most puppies with carpal laxity will appear completely normal within six to eight weeks.
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Cataract formation is a reasonably well-known occurrence in pet birds. Canaries are more prone to cataract formation than other species of birds. Cataracts may be inherited or be secondary to a traumatic injury or infection involving one or both eyes.
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Inside the eye is a lens that focuses light on the back of the eye, or retina. Vision occurs at the retina. The structure of the eye is similar to a camera, which has a lens to focus light on the film. A cloudy or opaque lens is called a cataract.
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The intervertebral discs allow movement in the spine and act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. If the disc degenerates or is damaged in some way, the disc may bulge and put pressure on the spinal cord and/or the roots of the spinal nerves that come off the sides of the spinal cord. This pressure can cause symptoms ranging from severe pain to weakness to paralysis.
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Cervical vertebral instability (wobbler syndrome) is caused by compression of the spinal cord, usually at the base of the neck. Although the spinal cord compression occurs in the neck, the hind legs are often affected first. In severe cases, the dog may suddenly develop total paralysis of all four limbs. The condition is most prevalent in Great Danes and Doberman Pinschers. Most pets enjoy a relatively normal lifestyle following surgery.
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Chameleons may be affected by a variety of medical conditions. A swollen abdomen needs attention by a veterinarian in case of possible egg retention. Swollen joints are most likely an indication of uric acid deposits, a condition called articular gout. Chameleons with poor perching ability and/or abnormal leg angles likely have metabolic bone disease. Swellings of the tissue around the eyes is common and needs proper treatment, possibly surgery, to correct.
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Chemotherapy drugs are used to treat cancer and other conditions in people and animals, and often target and kill rapidly dividing cancer cells, but normal, healthy cells that grow quickly may also be affected. Side effects of ingestion can include stomach upset, neurological signs, bone marrow suppression, and organ damage.
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Cherry eye is a common name for a prolapsed third eyelid gland. The gland is mainly responsible for tear production in the eye, and treatment is recommended to prevent long-term damage. Treatment involves surgical replacement of the gland, though some dogs will have a recurrence of the problem.
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Chinchillas are generally hardy animals but can have several unique problems; understanding them will help you care for your pet and manage potential health problems.
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Chinchillas are generally hardy animals but are susceptible to several unique health conditions; understanding them will help you care for your pet and manage potential health problems. This handout describes the most common conditions seen in pet chinchillas.