K9 Carts Glossary

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Patella

is the medical term for the knee cap.  In some pets, the patella or knee cap does not ride on the correct place on the knee.  This is called luxating patella.  Luxating patellas will cause an unusual gait, but can be corrected by orthopedic surgery.

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Polydipsia

is the medical term for increased water consumption. Polydipsia is a common clinical sign for such disease as diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus, or Cushing's Disease. Often with corticosteroid use, one will see increased water consumption. Usually polyuria or frequent urination is present as well. Seldom should one restrict an animals access to water.

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Polyuria

is the medical term for frequent urination. Polyuria is a common clinical sign for such disease as diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus, or Cushing's Disease. Pets given corticosteroids for disc problems may also show signs of polyuria. Usually polydipsia or increased water consumption is present as well.

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Pruritis

is the medical term for itchiness.

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Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints.  Pets may present with shifting leg lameness and/or swollen/painful joints.  X-rays may shown characteristic lesions in the bones that will make your vet suspect RA.  A blood test for rheumatoid factor is often also performed.  Pets are treated with immunosuppressive druge, but cannot be cured of the disease.

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Stifle

is the knee joint in animals.