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DogsPet parent9d agoHe has degenerative mitral valve disease (MMVD) and has experienced several episodes of…Hello, I am looking for veterinary advice regarding my 16-year-old male Yorkshire Terrier. He has degenerative mitral valve disease (MMVD) and has experienced several episodes of severe pulmonary edema since early September 2026. Unfortunately, intensive diuretic treatment has also been associated with a significant deterioration in his kidney values. He is regularly monitored by a veterinary cardiologist, but despite treatment, pulmonary edema keeps recurring. I would really appreciate a second opinion on his current treatment, the possible reasons for these sudden episodes, and any additional options that could help support both his heart and kidneys. ## 1. Cardiac history and echocardiography His heart condition had been relatively stable for approximately 1.5 years before the first severe episode in September. An echocardiogram performed on February 13, 2026, showed: - Diagnosis: Degenerative mitral valve disease, ACVIM stage B2 at that time - LA/Ao ratio: 1.54 - Normalized left ventricular internal diameter (LVIDDn): 1.42 - Left ventricular internal diameter in diastole: 2.27 cm - Left ventricular internal diameter in systole: 1.31 cm - Ejection fraction (EF): 75% - Fractional shortening (FS): 42% - Moderate left atrial enlargement - Mitral regurgitation with a narrow regurgitant jet - Flail anterior mitral leaflet - Preserved systolic function - No documented systolic or diastolic dysfunction - Sinus rhythm At his most recent cardiology examination on October 14, the cardiologist stated that the echocardiographic findings were still very similar to those from February, with only minor changes in cardiac dimensions. She was surprised by the severity and frequency of his pulmonary edema episodes despite the relatively limited progression seen on echocardiography. I do not yet have the exact measurements from the October examination. ## 2. Timeline of pulmonary edema and treatment **Early September – first severe pulmonary edema episode** He developed severe pulmonary edema and required intensive furosemide treatment. The initially administered doses were insufficient, and the diuretic treatment had to be intensified considerably. Eventually, the pulmonary edema resolved, but his kidney values subsequently deteriorated. **September 11** A follow-up lung ultrasound showed only a few isolated B-lines. His sleeping respiratory rate was still approximately 35–45 breaths per minute. **September 22** His condition improved significantly. His sleeping respiratory rate decreased to approximately 15–24 breaths per minute. He became more active, resumed walking and appeared much more comfortable. A lung ultrasound described the lungs as dry, without pleural or pericardial effusion. **September 23–29 – kidney deterioration** Blood tests showed severe azotemia, increased phosphorus and low potassium. Fluid therapy was recommended to support kidney function. **Late September – October 6** He initially received intravenous fluids, including approximately 160 ml on one occasion. Daily subcutaneous lactated Ringer's solution was subsequently prescribed at 125–150 ml per day. Because I was concerned about his heart disease, I actually administered approximately 100–120 ml daily for about one week. The last subcutaneous infusion was given on October 6. His kidney values improved considerably during this period. **October 9** His respiratory rate suddenly increased again. Lung ultrasound showed renewed signs of pulmonary congestion. Additional furosemide injections were required. **October 10** His breathing improved considerably, and the follow-up ultrasound showed only isolated B-lines. **October 11–12** He again developed increased respiratory effort, restlessness and difficulty sleeping. On October 11, he received two additional intravenous doses of 10 mg furosemide, according to my records. On October 12, lung ultrasound showed several B-lines on the right side, while the left side appeared considerably better. His regular oral furosemide was increased to 10 mg three times daily. **October 14 – another severe pulmonary edema episode** At approximately 2 AM, he developed another very severe episode of pulmonary edema. His respiratory rate reached approximately 80 breaths per minute at rest. He was coughing, very restless, unable to settle comfortably and had difficulty lying down and sleeping. Additional subcutaneous furosemide was administered as emergency treatment. I estimate that the total subcutaneous dose during that night was slightly over 30 mg. He was examined by his cardiologist later that day. The cardiologist decided to replace his regular oral furosemide with torasemide. Following the change, his respiratory rate gradually decreased from approximately 80 to 44 and then to around 36 breaths per minute while calmly awake. Today is much more better. His appetite and general behavior improved, and he became interested in his surroundings again. Because of the 1 replyVet answered
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Generalbella 16d agoMy rabbit is a young male Lionhead who was completely normal and acting like himself the…My rabbit is a young male Lionhead who was completely normal and acting like himself the night before this happened. He was out of his cage, moving around normally, and I did not notice any limp or problem with either back leg. The next morning, he immediately went underneath my bed and stayed there for most of the day, which was unusual for him because he is normally very active, playful, digs, tries to escape his cage, and wants to be around me. At first I thought he was hiding because his litter had been changed and my cats were acting differently, but when I shook his treat bag he came out and ate normally. That was when I noticed that his left back leg looked slightly abnormal. Later, when he came out from under the bed, I noticed that he was limping and avoiding putting much pressure on the left hind leg. He does not seem completely unable to use it, but he usually lifts it up instead of putting normal weight on it. When he is sitting, the leg sometimes appears to angle slightly toward the left, and the area that seems most abnormal is around the lower leg/knee area closer to the paw. He can move the paw and toes. He can stand, turn around, stretch both hind legs, and he has voluntarily hopped several times. He even hopped into his litter box normally, and he has tried to hop out of his cage toward me. He is still eating, appears to be drinking, is producing normal-looking poop, and is grooming himself normally, including grooming the affected leg. He has also been able to stand and move around without falling over. When I first picked him up to show my dad, he kicked while I was trying to hold him and made a small whimpering/crying sound, but I immediately put him down and I have not noticed him crying when he is simply sitting, eating, grooming, or moving on his own. He has not been constantly screaming or showing obvious severe pain, but he is much quieter and more still than his normal personality. He normally spends a lot of time digging, playing with toys, trying to get out of his cage, and hopping around, whereas now he mostly sits, eats, uses the litter box, grooms, or rests. His breathing also seems somewhat faster than normal while he is sitting still, although I am not sure whether this is from pain, fear, or stress. The symptoms have been present since approximately 7–8 PM and have stayed about the same or possibly improved slightly rather than rapidly getting worse. There were two awkward incidents around the time before I noticed the limp: the day before, I dropped him from the bed and he landed somewhat on his side, although it did not seem like a hard fall and he acted completely normal for several hours afterward; there was also a later slip/awkward landing when he hopped off a small platform. After the second incident, he was still able to hop and move, but I became concerned about the leg. I have now put him in his cage with fresh bedding, hay, food, water, litter, and toys and am keeping him confined so he cannot run or jump. The cats are being kept away from him. I have not tried to straighten, massage, or splint the leg. I am trying to determine whether this could be a sprain, fracture, joint/hip injury, or another problem and whether he needs emergency care tonight or can safely wait for an exotic/rabbit veterinarian tomorrow. I am especially concerned because he is clearly avoiding normal weight-bearing on the left hind leg and is quieter than usual, but he is still eating, pooping, grooming, standing, stretching both hind legs, moving his paw/toes, turning normally, and voluntarily hopping1 replyVet answered
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Catsmehrdad27d agoThere are seven kittens in totalHello Doctor, I am seeking an urgent second opinion regarding a group of seven approximately 6-month-old kittens that have become seriously ill. There are seven kittens in total. The illness started approximately 5 days ago, and unfortunately, two of the kittens have already died. According to the veterinarian who previously examined them, a feline panleukopenia (FPV) test was positive. Clinical signs observed The affected kittens have developed several of the following signs: Severe lethargy and weakness Fever Complete or severe loss of appetite Vomiting Diarrhea The diarrhea was initially yellow and later became green and then dark/blackish Markedly reduced urination Increased water consumption Oral pain and significant lesions/inflammation inside the mouth Difficulty breathing in some of the kittens Progressive yellow discoloration of the eyes, which makes me concerned about jaundice Severe deterioration over several days Two kittens have already died I have also noticed severe inflammation and abnormal tissue in the mouth. In one kitten, there appears to be an unusual piece/layer of tissue covering much of the front teeth. When the upper lip is pulled back, this tissue appears somewhat detached or separate from the underlying gum rather than being clearly continuous with it. I have not attempted to remove it. I previously took several photographs of the oral lesions and can provide them if helpful. Current concerns Because of the positive FPV test and the gastrointestinal signs, feline panleukopenia seems to be an important confirmed diagnosis. However, I am concerned that there may be another concurrent disease, because of the following combination: severe oral lesions, respiratory difficulty, progressive jaundice/yellow eyes, and the severity of the disease affecting multiple kittens. I am particularly wondering whether feline calicivirus (FCV), severe systemic calicivirus infection, FIP, secondary bacterial sepsis, hepatic disease, or another concurrent infection could also be involved. I understand that these cannot be diagnosed reliably from symptoms alone. Important additional information At the moment, unfortunately, I do not have access to the previous blood test results, CBC/biochemistry results, or radiographs. I am trying to obtain them. I would especially like to know what diagnostic tests you would recommend urgently, considering the current situation. If possible, I would appreciate your opinion regarding: Whether the clinical picture is consistent with severe feline panleukopenia. Whether the yellow discoloration could represent jaundice, and what the most important differential diagnoses would be. Whether concurrent feline calicivirus infection could explain the oral lesions and respiratory signs. Whether FIP should be investigated at this stage and, if so, which tests would be most useful. Whether the oral tissue described above could represent severe inflammatory/proliferative tissue, necrotic tissue, sloughed mucosa, or something else. Which blood tests and imaging studies should be prioritized. What emergency supportive treatment would be appropriate while the diagnostic work-up is being performed. The kittens are very young and several are critically ill, so I am particularly concerned about dehydration, electrolyte abnormalities, hypoglycemia, anemia, secondary bacterial infection/sepsis, and liver involvement. I would be very grateful for any guidance on what should be done immediately and which diagnostic findings would help distinguish severe panleukopenia from concurrent FCV, FIP, or other systemic disease. I can also send photographs of the mouth, eyes, and any other visible clinical signs. Thank you very much for your help.0 repliesNo vet yet
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CatsNar Sep 22My cat, Scottish fold, 1.5 years oldMy cat , Scottish fold , 1.5 years old. Puked three times last week. 2 hair balls , 1 was food. I took him to the vet on Wednesday and they did an xray and found that he was constipated. They gave me laxative (enulose) 2mL every 8 hours until he produced a soft stool. Thursday morning he produced a pretty big stool but I wasn’t sure if it was soft or not. My vet wasn’t in the office and won’t be until tomorrow so I couldn’t speak with her. But the vet told me to stop after he produced stool. When I called and spoke to a tech they told me to keep the laxative going. I wasn’t sure very scared and not sure what to do. So I didn’t give it to him. Then by Saturday night I realized he hadn’t pooped. I gave him some that night but got worried about administering it without speaking to someone. It is now Monday and no poops since Thursday that I’ve seen. I have an appointment tomorrow at 4:40 with the vet. But of course I couldn’t speak with her today and spoke to another tech who told me to administer the laxative . So I gave it to him at 4:30. Around 10pm he puked a very small amount. I have to give him another scheduled dose at 12;30 and not sure if that’s safe or not. He is still drinking water and running around and cuddling. I’m just honestly so scared and hate doing this stuff and I want to know if it’s still a good idea to give him the full dose tonight before bed. I can’t monitor him all night. I need to sleep0 repliesNo vet yet
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CatsPet parentSep 20My cat was an older male cat, approximately 11–13 years oldI would like to ask for a veterinary opinion about my cat’s medical history and the cause of his deterioration. My cat was an older male cat, approximately 11–13 years old. He had been living with me for many years. He had diabetes, which had been diagnosed about three years earlier, and he also had chronic kidney problems. On June 18, 2026, he underwent a dental procedure under general anesthesia, including dental cleaning and multiple tooth extractions. The medications recorded in the veterinary report included midazolam, butorphanol, medetomidine (Domitor), Antisedan, Clamox, and meloxicam. Before the dental procedure, he was eating normally. About 36 hours after the dental procedure, he stopped eating completely. He continued drinking and urinating, and there was no significant vomiting. About six days after the procedure, his condition became serious enough that he was taken to an emergency veterinary clinic and hospitalized for several nights. During that hospitalization, he was found to have severe hyperglycemia and significant kidney abnormalities/acute kidney injury. His glucose was reported to be above 540 mg/dL at one point, and his creatinine and BUN were also elevated. He was dehydrated and had lost weight. He received IV fluids and supportive treatment. After he stabilized, he returned home. For approximately the next 10 days he appeared relatively stable. He was eating again and was receiving subcutaneous fluids at home (about 40 mL per day). His glucose later improved substantially, from around 500 mg/dL to approximately 140 mg/dL. Approximately 20 days after the dental procedure, he suddenly developed severe breathing difficulty. He was taken to the veterinarian, and chest X-rays showed a large amount of free air in the chest cavity (pneumothorax). The veterinarian drained approximately 2–3 liters of air, but his condition did not improve adequately and the air continued to accumulate. The veterinarian suspected a rupture involving lung tissue and considered it a spontaneous pneumothorax. There was no known trauma or accident. The veterinarian also considered his chronic disease, weight loss/cachexia, and poor tissue condition as part of his overall medical condition. My main question is about the cause of the pneumothorax. Could a complication from the endotracheal tube used during the dental anesthesia realistically cause a pneumothorax that appears approximately 20 days later, especially when the cat had been hospitalized, stabilized, returned home, and remained relatively stable for about 10 days? There was no obvious subcutaneous emphysema reported, and the pneumothorax appeared much later rather than immediately after anesthesia. I would like to know, based on veterinary medicine and the timeline, whether an anesthesia/endotracheal-tube complication is medically plausible, or whether this pattern would be more consistent with a spontaneous pneumothorax or an underlying lung problem. The cat ultimately deteriorated and died from the respiratory crisis.0 repliesNo vet yet
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DogsDawnSep 19I have a 12 year old yorkie terrier mix who is pooping like every 2-3 hours - even…I have a 12 year old yorkie terrier mix who is pooping like every 2-3 hours - even through the night. It is soft, but not diarrhea. At first, because it sort of looked like diarrhea, we started him on a bland diet, but that didn't seem to work. We then gave him a dose of metronidazole for 2 days - that seemed to help for a day, but again, stopped being effective so we stopped it. It has been happening for about 2 weeks, the majority of the poop size is much smaller than usual (round like a nickel vs. a log) but this isn't consistent. This round nickel sized poop isn't always what he evacuates...he will poop a normal log sized soft poop every now and then. There is no mucus or blood, he is definitely straining. He eats Purina Pro Plan sensitive skin and stomach dry dog food, salmon and is eating normal. He isn't losing weight and behaves normal.he was on a Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements FortiFlora Dog Probiotic up until 2 days ago because we weren't sure that was helping anymore. He does squat for quite a while and repeatedly reposition/squat several times before that little nickel-sized piece finally comes out, but for as long as we've had him (10.5 years of his 12 year life), we've called him the "poop-walker" because he always squats and walks around in a squat position while pooping. He is definitely taking taking much longer to poop and the poop-walk can take up to like 5 minutes.1 replyNo vet yet
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CatsPet parentSep 19He is approximately 3 years old, give or take, as he is a rescue and we don’t know his…Hi, I’m looking for advice about my cat who has feline asthma. He is approximately 3 years old, give or take, as he is a rescue and we don’t know his exact age. He is white and has black spots I live in a remote/desert area of Algeria. Most of the veterinarians available here mainly work with farm animals , so they don’t have much experience with feline asthma, inhalers, or spacer therapy. There are also no veterinary pharmacies where I live, so if an inhaler is appropriate, I would have to obtain it from a regular human pharmacy. My cat has asthma attacks from time to time. At the moment, the treatment our vet gives him is corticosteroids for the first 5 days of every month. Despite this, he still sometimes has attacks. He is also extremely skinny/underweight. His abdomen looks very sunken in, even though he eats very well and has a good appetite. Our vet told us that because of his condition, it may be difficult for him to gain weight. He also has very noticeable abdominal breathing when he breathes, his abdomen visibly moves in and out with each breath, almost like contractions, rather than breathing mainly with his chest. I would like to ask a veterinarian experienced with feline asthma whether there is a safer or more appropriate long-term management plan, particularly whether an inhaled corticosteroid such as fluticasone and/or a bronchodilator such as salbutamol/albuterol could be appropriate for him. If inhaled treatment is appropriate, could you please tell me what medication and type of spacer/mask are normally used for cats, and what I should ask for at a human pharmacy? I understand that online advice cannot replace an examination, and I’m not asking for a prescription without proper assessment. I mainly need guidance because access to feline respiratory specialists and veterinary medications is very limited where I live. Thank you very much.0 repliesNo vet yet
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CatsAminaSep 172 vets told us that it would resolve with restHello, when my male Scottish Fold cat was only 3 months old he started limping and his hip seemed to be displaced. 2 vets told us that it would resolve with rest. He started walking normally again, but he was never able to jump. He always climbed onto beds and chairs using his front legs and over the following months he gradually became less active. He is now 1 year and 5 months old and weighs 8,73 pounds (he weighed 9,25 pounds two months ago). Recently, he started hiding and appeared to be in severe pain. Our vet gave him an anti-inflammatory injection, and he became extremely playful and acted like a completely normal cat again. However, while running and playing, he seemed to injure himself. His hips appeared visibly displaced. He started hiding again, refused to eat or use the litter box, and could barely tolerate being touched. Once again, the anti-inflammatory injection made him much more comfortable. We had new X-rays taken, which I have attached. I have also attached his X-ray from when he was 3 months old for comparison. Link to view all the x-rays : https://imgur.com/a/1-5-years-old-scottish-fold-x-rays-wsDKzGd The vet says that he has Scottish Fold osteochondrodysplasia. I would be incredibly grateful if any veterinarians or veterinary radiologists could take a look at his X-rays and share their opinion on what they see. He is so young and in so much pain, I'm completely devastated, please help. Thank you1 replyVet answered

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