Veterinary Internal Medicine
Protecting the Internal Health of Cats
Internal medicine is a specialized branch of veterinary medicine that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease.
This can include conditions related to the respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary, cardiovascular, endocrine, and immune systems, as well as diseases of the liver, kidneys, and other vital organs.
At The Cat Hospital of Kamloops, our goal is to provide the best care possible to your feline friend. If your cat is diagnosed with an internal medical condition, we are equipped with the tools and medications to treat them.
We are also connected with a network of veterinary specialists. If your cat does not respond to standard procedures or needs specialized expertise, we can refer you to one of these specialists.
What is the Field of Internal Medicine?
Common areas of focus for internal medicine in cats include:
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Cardiology (heart-related disorders)
Just like humans, cats can also suffer from a variety of heart diseases and disorders. Veterinary cardiology involves the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the heart and lungs. These can include congestive heart failure (CHF), age-related changes to the valves of the heart, congenital heart defects, cardiac arrhythmias, and tumours.
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Reproductive Issues
At The Cat Hospital of Kamloops, we recognize the importance of maintaining the reproductive health of your feline companions. If your cat is facing any issues with reproduction, our veterinarian will use advanced diagnostic techniques, available at our clinic, to identify the underlying problem.
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Immunology (immune system disorders)
Immunology is the branch of veterinary science that studies cells, tissues and organs responsible for detecting foreign agents (antigens) and triggering the defensive action of the immune system.
The immune system in cats can experience dysfunctions, resulting in immune-mediated disorders. Some common immune-mediated disorders seen in cats include anemia, arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome, hypothyroidism, allergies, and skin diseases.
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Pulmonary Disorders (diseases of the lungs)
In cats, asthma, bronchitis, parasitic worms, bacterial infections, and viruses are some of the most common pulmonary issues our veterinarians frequently see in our patients.
These disorders can significantly impact a cat's respiratory system, and may lead to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and decreased energy levels.
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Gastroenterology (digestive organs)
Feline gastroenterology specifically deals with disorders affecting a cat's stomach and intestines, commonly referred to as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. These conditions can disrupt the cat's ability to properly digest food and absorb essential nutrients.
Cats experiencing GI problems may exhibit symptoms, like blood in the stool, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, gas, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
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Oncology (tumours and cancer)
Feline oncology is the field of veterinary medicine dedicated to diagnosing and treating cancer in cats. The primary objective is to improve and prolong the overall well-being of cats affected by cancer.
Similar to human cancer treatment, veterinarians employ various approaches, such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery.
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Urology (urinary functions, genitourinary tract)
Urology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders that affect the urinary tract. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, tubes that carry urine to the bladder, and the urethra, which removes urine from the body.
Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) is the most common disorder that our veterinarians diagnose and treat in cats. FLUTD can manifest as bladder inflammation, urinary blockage, or the formation of crystals or stones in the urinary tract.
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Endocrinology (glands and their functions)
Endocrinology focuses on the study of the glands and hormones, as well as the potential disorders that may arise when they fail to work correctly.
When a cat's endocrine system is disrupted, it can manifest through various indications, including skin issues and deterioration of coat quality.
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Neurology (brain and nervous system disorders)
Veterinary neurology is a branch of internal medicine that focuses on abnormalities of the brain and spinal cord, as well as neuromuscular dysfunction.
Common neurological disorders veterinarians encounter in cats include seizures, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), and tumors affecting the nervous system.
Cancer Diagnosis & Care
Unfortunately, cancer is a common disease in cats. Lymphoma, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), mammary cancer, and skin cancer are the most common in cats. However, when diagnosed in the earliest stages, many cancers can be treated with a combination of methods.
Following a cat’s cancer diagnosis, we will take the time to explain their diagnosis to you and discuss additional testing that may be required. We will also provide you with treatment options and a prognosis.
In-House Lab & Diagnostics
Imaging and diagnostic tests are crucial when it comes to providing an accurate diagnosis of your cat's condition. Our in-house veterinary lab enables our team of professionals to quickly and accurately diagnose your cat's medical condition and provide prompt treatment.
Additionally, our sole focus on feline medicine ensures that we cater to the unique needs and sensitivities of cats throughout the diagnostic process. This includes offering treats to distract them, and gentle handling techniques during each procedure.
New Patients Welcome
The Cat Hospital of Kamloops is accepting new feline patients! If you are looking for a veterinarian who is solely committed to the unique needs of cats, get in touch today to book your first appointment.