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Parasitic diseases in rabbits: the commonest threats and how to prevent them
Coccidiosis, encephalitozoonosis, ear mange and cheyletiellosis are the parasitic diseases pet rabbits meet most often, and they can go unnoticed for a long time. We explain how they are diagnosed in the laboratory, how they are treated, and which hygiene, quarantine and feeding rules keep infection at bay.
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How to protect your dog’s paws in winter
Frost, ice and road salt leave a dog's pads irritated, cracked and sometimes frostbitten every winter. We explain how to pick a route and a protective wax before the walk, how to rinse and dry the paws properly once you are home, and which signs mean it is time to call the veterinary clinic.
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Horner’s syndrome in dogs and cats: signs, causes, diagnosis and treatment
A drooping eyelid, a smaller pupil and a visible third eyelid on one side add up to Horner's syndrome. It is not painful in itself and does not harm sight, but it often signals another, more serious condition underneath. We explain the causes, the diagnostic steps, the pharmacological tests and the treatment options.
What is a mastectomy, the removal of the mammary chain?
What is a mastectomy?
A mastectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the mammary chain, that is, the animal’s mammary glands. It is performed when a tumour develops in the mammary gland. Unfortunately, this type of tumour is thought to be the most common of all growths in bitches, and it is, sadly, most often malignant.
These tumours can occur in dogs and cats as well as in small mammals such as rats.
What can cause a mammary tumour?
Tumours can have various causes, and hormonal factors are often involved. Additional causes include:
Some breeds are even said to be predisposed to mammary tumours, namely: the German Shepherd, Poodle, Dachshund, Spaniel and Maltese.
Bear in mind that pregnancy does not protect against tumours; on the contrary, it can contribute to their development.
How can you spot a mammary tumour in your pet?
Growths can vary in size; sometimes they are small and the owner does not notice them straight away, which is why regularly looking your pet over and feeling for lumps works best.
Animals may show symptoms such as:
How can mammary tumours be prevented?
The most effective way to prevent this condition is to spay the bitch early. The procedure can reduce the risk of a tumour by as much as 50%, which is why spaying and neutering now count as preventive care.
It is far better to have a routine procedure done on a bitch than to face the stress of a much more serious mastectomy later on.