Kittens and Puppies | Common Concerns and Resolutions | Part 2
Our last blog post highlighted some common diseases and parasites that can afflict kittens and puppies. Because it’s important for kittens and puppies to get a healthy start, this article continues the discussion and describes additional health concerns you should know about.
Diseases in Kittens and Puppies
Distemper is a disease that can be fatal. If your puppy has yellow diarrhea, trouble breathing, loss of appetite, and possibly seizures, he needs to see a vet. Vaccinating your pup for distemper can help prevent it.
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are transmitted by blood and saliva. FIV creates a vulnerability in cats to many other infections. Have your kitten tested for both FeLV and FIV during her kitten vaccination visits.
FeLV is highly communicable. Kittens have suppressed immune systems, so their chance of infection is even greater if exposed. Keep your kitten away from unfamiliar cats until she gets her vaccination. Have her tested for this disease before she receives the vaccination.
External Parasites in Kittens and Puppies
Demodectic mange is caused by a microscopic mite that lives inside hair roots. After birth, puppies get them from their mother while cuddling. Most puppies have no issues coexisting with the mites. Others that may be more prone to Demodectic mange or with compromised immune systems do. For those puppies, hair loss, reddened skin, scabbing, crusting, and itching may occur. Consult with your vet about treatment.
Sarcoptic mange is also known as scabies. This contagious skin disease is caused by microscopic mites that burrow into the skin and, after mating, lay eggs. These mites prefer hairless skin so they target a pup’s ears, elbows, and abdomen. Red, scaly, itchy skin, and crusty ear edges characterize a scabies infestation. Bring your pup to the vet for diagnosis and treatment.
Notoedric mange or head mange affects kittens. It’s caused by a mite similar to the one that causes sarcoptic mange in dogs. Notoedric mange presents with itchy crusts and scales on the edges of the ears. Left untreated it will spread to the face and body of the kitten. See your veterinarian for treatment of this contagious skin condition.
Pyoderma is a bacterial skin infection in puppies. The bacteria won’t bother puppies with healthy skin. However, pyoderma can occur when pups have other underlying conditions like allergies, parasites (Demodectic or Sarcoptic mange), or hormonal imbalances. Pyoderma shows up as scaly skin. Because pyoderma is usually a secondary condition, it’s important to bring your puppy to a veterinarian to be checked so all issues can be resolved.
Kittens and puppies are vulnerable. Recognizing symptoms of illness will help you help them have the healthiest life possible.