Blood pressure measurement determines the pressure in the blood vessels. It consists of two values, the systolic (higher) and diastolic (lower) blood pressure. Systolic blood pressure is measured when the heart contracts to pump blood out of the heart. As soon as the heart muscle relaxes and blood flows back in, the diastolic blood pressure is measured.
Blood pressure measurement is used for the early detection and monitoring of various underlying conditions, such as heart, kidney, or hormonal disorders. In cats in particular, but also in dogs, blood pressure measurement is a quick and painless procedure for diagnosing low blood pressure (hypotension) or high blood pressure (hypertension). Blood pressure can also provide additional information about vital functions during anesthesia monitoring.
In animals, blood pressure is similar to that in humans. Systolic blood pressure in dogs and cats is between 110-140 mmHg, while diastolic blood pressure is between 60-80 mmHg. In horses, the average systolic blood pressure is 110-120 mmHg, while the average diastolic blood pressure is 70-80 mmHg.
A basic distinction is made between invasive and non-invasive measurement methods.
Blood pressure measurement in animals is mainly performed non-invasively and on awake patients. For this purpose, a blood pressure cuff is placed either on the forelimb or at the base of the tail. The cuff is inflated so that the blood flow is briefly interrupted. The pressure in the cuff is then slowly reduced so that the blood flows back. The manometer (pressure gauge) connected to the cuff then displays the pressure.
Although invasive blood pressure measurement is the most accurate method, it is only used in emergencies or during difficult operations due to the more difficult procedure and the associated stress and pain. In this procedure, the arterial blood pressure is measured via a catheter inserted into an artery (blood vessel coming from the heart).
What lies behind this almost unpronounceable name? Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis is a hereditary, incurable metabolic disease that primarily affects Quarter Horses, Paint Horses, and Appaloosas, whose bloodlines all trace back to the Quarter Horse stallion "Impressive."
Gastroenterology is the branch of internal medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. This also includes the pancreas, liver, and gallbladder.
Hypothyroidism, medically known as hypothyroidism, is one of the most common hormonal disorders in dogs. It mainly affects middle-aged to older dogs, with Golden Retrievers, Dobermans, Boxers, and Beagles being particularly susceptible.
Squamous cell carcinoma is a malignant skin tumor that occurs in cats mainly in the mouth, ears, and nose. Starting in the uppermost layer of skin and mucous membrane, the squamous epithelium, this tumor spreads very quickly and aggressively. Cats of all breeds and ages can be affected, although older cats are more susceptible.
In dogs, as in humans, the anterior cruciate ligament often tears. This strong ligament connects the thigh bone to the shin bone in the knee joint and prevents the knee from overextending or twisting. However, while cruciate ligament tears in humans are usually traumatic in nature (caused by sports accidents of all kinds), in dogs the ligament gradually breaks down over a longer period of time (degeneration).
The bit attached to the bridle transmits your rein aids to your horse and is therefore a central link in rider-horse communication. As the horse's mouth is a particularly sensitive area, it is important that the bit suits you both. Choosing the right bit depends on the level of training of the rider and horse, the type of riding, the anatomy of the horse's mouth, the temperament and also the preferences of the horse.
With increasing age, the number of cats suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD) rises. Between 30 and 40% of all cats over the age of 10 are affected. It often goes unnoticed for a long time. However, the gradual decline in kidney function continues to progress. CKD is one of the most common causes of death in cats and is unfortunately incurable.
Tumors on the ovaries of mares are among the most common growths of the female reproductive system. They can occur regardless of breed and age and are often the cause of behavioral abnormalities or disturbances in the mare's sexual cycle. Depending on the type of cell affected, different types of tumors can occur, but they are usually benign.
Tortoises are fascinating animals that many children love. But before you bring a tortoise into your home, you should be aware that there is much more to it than just finding them cute or interesting.
As the saying goes, when two completely different people meet and have communication problems, they are "like cats and dogs." Dogs and cats do indeed seem to be fundamentally different. But opposites aren't always bad. It's entirely possible for the two to enjoy a peaceful family life together in the same household.
Magnetic resonance imaging, also known as nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, is one of the most modern and safest imaging techniques. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose a wide variety of diseases.
This disease is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the mare's reproductive system, which is mainly transmitted through mating. The stallion is only a carrier of the pathogen and does not show any clinical symptoms. The disease, known as contagious equine metritis (CEM), was first described in detail in 1977 and is a notifiable disease in Germany.
