Signs of Illness or Disease
Dogs and cats need people who know what to look for to make sure they are in good health. Older animals may need specialized care and animal owners need to be aware when it is time to euthanize an animal, to relieve pain and prevent suffering.
Some visible signs of illness to watch for in a dog or cat are:
- Weight loss or gain.
- Drinking excessively or not at all.
- Lack of appetite.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Lethargy (lack of energy, disinterest in toys, play and exercise).
- Loss of coordination, circling, paralysis.
- Cloudy discharge from eyes/nose.
- Increased heart rate and respiratory rate.
Activity 3.4 – Disease and Medical Care
Identify a disease that can affect your dog or cat. What is one symptom that this disease causes? What is one action that can be taken to prevent this disease? What is one option for treating this disease?
Respond to the above questions in your Module 3 booklet by using the weblinks provided below.
Be sure to SAVE this document to your course folder when you are done.
Weblinks for Activities 3.2 – 3.4
These weblinks will help you complete the learning tasks.
Learn more about litter box problems from the American SPCA.
Watch a video that shows a dog’s social interaction and play in a living space.
Find out more information about common diseases in cats from the American SPCA.
Find out more information about common diseases in dogs from the American SPCA.