More Than Just a Scab: Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Cats

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Does your cat have crusty ears, a scabby nose, or a sore that just won’t heal?

It may look minor — but it could be Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), one of the most destructive and painful skin cancers seen in cats.

What often begins as a small black crust, pink scaly patch, or persistent sore can quietly progress into a malignant ulcer that causes irreversible tissue damage if left untreated.

What Is Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)?

Squamous Cell Carcinoma is an aggressive skin cancer caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Unlike cancers that spread internally first, SCC is locally invasive — meaning it destroys the surrounding healthy tissue as it grows.

SCC most commonly affects areas with little hair and pigment, including:

  • Ear tips
  • Nose (nasal planum)
  • Eyelids
  • Lips

Why SCC Is So Dangerous

• Severe Tissue Destruction

SCC doesn’t simply form a lump. It actively erodes healthy tissue. When left untreated, it can:

  • Destroy ear tips completely
  • Eat away at the nose, sometimes exposing bone
  • Affect eyelids and compromise the eyes

• Often More Than One Lesion

Nearly 50% of cats diagnosed with SCC have multiple affected areas. If you notice one crust or ulcer, it’s essential to check:

  • Both ears
  • Eyelids
  • Nose and lips

• Sun-Driven — and Largely Preventable

UV radiation is the primary cause of SCC. Cats at highest risk include:

  • White cats
  • Light-coloured or thin-furred cats
  • Cats that enjoy sunbathing outdoors or near windows

Even indoor cats are not immune — UV rays pass through glass.

Early Signs vs. Advanced Disease

Early Stage: Actinic Dermatitis

These early changes are far easier — and far less invasive — to treat:

  • Pink or red scaly skin
  • Small black crusts
  • Mild sores that heal and recur
  • Hair loss on ear tips or nose

This is the stage where early treatment can prevent cancer progression.

Advanced SCC

Once the disease progresses, signs may include:

  • Open, bleeding ulcers
  • Thickened or deformed tissue
  • Visible tissue loss
  • Pain, infection, and unpleasant odour

At this stage, treatment becomes significantly more aggressive and complex.

How SCC Is Diagnosed

If SCC is suspected, your veterinarian may recommend:

  • A skin biopsy
  • Cytology (cell sampling)
  • A full-body examination to check for additional lesions

Early diagnosis dramatically improves treatment options and outcomes.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on how early SCC is detected:

Early lesions may be managed with:

  • Cryotherapy (freezing abnormal cells)
  • Topical medications
  • Photodynamic therapy

Advanced lesions may require:

  • Surgical removal (often extensive)
  • Radiation therapy
  • Palliative care in severe cases

Once tissue destruction has begun, surgery may involve partial or complete removal of affected areas.

How to Protect Your Cat

Limit Sun Exposure

Keep white or light-coloured cats indoors during peak UV hours (10am–4pm).

Use Pet-Safe Sunscreen

Apply pet-approved, waterproof SPF 30+ sunscreen to:

  • Ear tips
  • Nose

Never use human sunscreen — many products are toxic to cats.

Act Quickly

Book a veterinary visit immediately if you notice:

  • Any wound that doesn’t heal
  • Persistent crusting or scabbing
  • Red, pink, or black scaly patches

Final Message

If it doesn’t heal, keeps crusting, or keeps coming back, it is not “just a scab.”

Early action can mean the difference between simple treatment and devastating surgery — or worse.

Your vigilance can save your cat’s face… and their life.

If you’re concerned about a lesion on your cat, contact Bruma Lake Veterinary Clinic for advice and assessment.

The Silent Danger of Dental Disease in Pets

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It is a startling reality that up to 80% of dogs and 70% of cats suffer from dental disease by the age of three. Yet dental problems often go unnoticed until they are severe and painful. At Bruma Lake Vet, we regularly see pets affected by advanced oral disease — conditions that don’t just impact the mouth, but can threaten overall health and quality of life.

Meet Nikey, who recently came into our clinic for a dental procedure. Nikey was at the advanced end of Stage 3 dental disease, where professional dental scaling and multiple extractions were required to relieve pain and prevent further complications.

The Danger Zone: Why Dental Care Is Not Optional

When a pet’s teeth rot, the mouth becomes a reservoir for pathogenic bacteria. These bacteria can breach the gum barrier and enter the bloodstream — a condition known as bacteraemia.

This can lead to serious, and sometimes life‑threatening, complications:

  • Heart damage: Bacteria may settle on the heart valves, leading to endocarditis (inflammation of the heart lining) and potentially heart failure.
  • Kidney and liver failure: As these organs filter infected blood, chronic inflammation and micro‑abscesses can develop, resulting in permanent organ damage.
  • Brain and jaw complications: Advanced infections may cause tooth‑root abscesses that erode the jawbone, leading to fractures or even blindness if infection spreads to the eye sockets.

Common Oral Enemies

  • Plaque and tartar: A sticky biofilm of bacteria that hardens into calculus (tartar) within as little as 24 hours if not brushed away.
  • Gingivitis: Painful, red inflammation of the gums. This is the only stage of dental disease that is fully reversible with treatment.
  • Periodontitis: A chronic infection that destroys the bone and ligaments supporting the teeth, leading to irreversible tooth loss.
  • Pyorrhoea: Advanced disease characterised by the presence of pus and loose, “floating” teeth.

Four Proactive Steps to Protect Your Pet

  • Daily brushing: Use a soft‑bristled toothbrush and pet‑specific toothpaste. Human toothpaste may contain toxic ingredients such as xylitol or fluoride. Focus on the outer surfaces of the upper teeth, where plaque accumulates most rapidly.
  • “Lift the lip” weekly: Check for red‑flag signs such as bleeding gums, excessive drooling, bad breath, or reluctance to chew hard food.
  • Professional dental scaling: Schedule a professional dental clean with your vet at least once a year. This procedure requires anaesthesia to allow safe and thorough cleaning below the gumline, where the most dangerous bacteria reside.
  • Veterinary‑approved dental treats: Use products recommended by your vet and include dental care as part of your pet’s routine health plan to help reduce plaque buildup.

Visual Guide to Dental Disease Stages

  • Stage 1: Red, swollen gum line (gingivitis). No bone loss is present; urgent intervention can save the teeth.
  • Stage 2–3: Receding gums and visible yellow‑brown tartar. Permanent damage to supporting structures has begun. Some extractions may be required in Stage 3.
  • Stage 4: Severe decay, exposed tooth roots, and pus. Extraction is often the only way to resolve the intense but often “silent” pain.

If you are concerned about your pet’s teeth or breath, or if it has been more than a year since their last dental check, please contact Bruma Lake Vet. Early intervention can prevent pain, protect vital organs, and significantly improve your pet’s quality of life.

 

Flystrike in Dogs – How to Protect Yours

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Flystrike is a painful condition where flies bite and feed on a dog’s ear tissue. While it can affect any breed, it is most common in larger dogs like German Shepherds. 

A Case Study: Lassie (not her real name)

One extreme case involved “Lassie”, a German Shepherd rescued from a backyard breeder who forced her to produce eight litters in a row. Upon her rescue, she was brought to our clinic and received immediate medical intervention. 

Treatment 

  • Sterilisation to prevent further breeding stress.
  • Exspot Spot-On applied to her back to repel parasites.
  • Shoo-Fly Ointment applied directly to her ears to heal the bites and deter flies. 

Prevention Tips

To protect your dog from flystrike, focus on eliminating fly breeding grounds and using physical barriers: 

  • Hygiene: Pick up faeces daily and remove uneaten food immediately.
  • Control: Use fly traps around the perimeter of your yard.
  • Protection: For dogs prone to bites, apply preventative ointments or sprays regularly during fly season. 

Why Lumps, Bumps and Skin Lesions Should Never Be Ignored

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Lumps, bumps and skin lesions are one of the most common reasons pets are brought to the vet — and for good reason. A large number of tumours in both dogs and cats are associated with the skin. While many of these growths may be harmless, others can be serious or even life-threatening if left untreated.

The most important message for pet owners is simple: early detection gives your pet the best possible chance of successful treatment. Any new, changing, or unusual lump should be examined by your veterinarian.

Why You Can’t Diagnose a Lump by Looking or Feeling It

Unfortunately, neither vets nor doctors can reliably determine what a lump is simply by looking at it or feeling it. In some cases, the cause may be obvious — for example, an abscess resulting from a bite wound. However, in many situations, further investigation is needed to understand what’s happening beneath the surface.

This is why diagnostic testing plays such an important role in deciding the next steps.

Fine Needle Aspirates: A Simple but Powerful Test

One of the most common first diagnostic tools we use is a fine needle aspirate (FNA). This involves taking a very small sample of cells from the lump using a fine needle, placing the material on a slide, staining it, and examining it under a microscope.

This process is called a cytological examination, which allows us to analyse the cells present in the lump. While it doesn’t always provide a definitive diagnosis, an adequate sample often helps us determine whether a lump is:

  • Benign (non-cancerous)
  • Malignant (cancerous)
  • Inflammatory
  • Infectious
  • Or related to another disease process

This information is crucial in guiding further decisions.

Deciding on Surgery and Treatment

Based on the results of the cytology, we can decide:

  • Whether the lump should be removed
  • How urgently it needs to be addressed
  • How much surrounding tissue may need to be removed
  • Whether additional tests or treatments are required

If a lump is suspected to be malignant — or if we’re uncertain about its nature — we often recommend surgical removal or a biopsy.

Histology: Getting a Definitive Diagnosis

When a lump or tissue sample is sent to a laboratory, it undergoes histological examination. A specialist pathologist examines thin, stained sections of the tissue to make an exact diagnosis.

Histology can often tell us:

  • The precise type of tumour
  • Whether the growth is benign or malignant
  • How aggressive it may be
  • Whether the entire lump was likely removed during surgery

Sometimes only a portion of the lump (a biopsy) is sent for analysis first. This allows us to plan the most effective treatment approach while minimising unnecessary surgery or complications.

Checking for Spread (Staging)

If a tumour is confirmed to be malignant, further tests may be recommended to assess whether it has spread. These may include:

  • Chest X-rays
  • Abdominal ultrasound
  • Testing or sampling nearby lymph nodes

This process, known as staging, helps us understand the full picture and decide what additional treatment — if any — is required.

The Bottom Line

Lumps and bumps should never be ignored. Even growths that seem small, painless, or unchanged can hide serious disease.

Early detection and early intervention give your pet the best chance of a positive outcome. If you notice any new lump, bump, or skin lesion — or if an existing one changes in size, shape, or appearance — bring your pet in for an examination as soon as possible.

If you’re ever unsure, it’s always better to check.

Conditioning and Socialising Your Pet: Setting Them Up for a Lifetime of Confidence

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The experiences your pet has early in life — and throughout adulthood — play a major role in how they cope with the world. Gentle conditioning and appropriate socialisation help pets grow into calmer, more confident companions and make everyday care, grooming, travel, and vet visits far less stressful.

While early exposure is ideal, it’s important to remember: it’s never too late to start. Older pets can also learn to feel more comfortable and confident — it may simply take more patience and time.

What Is Conditioning — and Why Does It Matter?

Conditioning is the process of gradually and positively exposing your pet to experiences they’ll encounter throughout their life. When pets learn that handling, travel, and routine care are safe and predictable, they’re far less likely to develop fear, anxiety, or defensive behaviour.

This is especially important for unavoidable experiences such as veterinary examinations, grooming, nail trims, and car travel.

Getting Your Pet Comfortable with Handling

From a young age, puppies and kittens should become accustomed to gentle, calm handling. 

This includes:

  • Touching and holding feet and toes 
  • Gently examining ears 
  • Lifting lips and looking inside the mouth 
  • Light restraint or short cuddles 

Start with very short sessions and always pair handling with treats, praise, or play. This helps your pet associate touch with positive experiences and makes vet examinations easier and less intimidating as they grow.

Conditioning at Home: Start Small and Build Slowly

Routine care tasks can be overwhelming if introduced too quickly. Gradual exposure is key.

Dental Care

Dental care is best introduced gradually so it doesn’t become a stressful experience.

  • Begin by gently touching around the mouth and muzzle 
  • Progress to lifting the lips for a few seconds at a time 
  • Once your pet is comfortable, introduce a finger brush or toothbrush 

To make the experience more pleasant, you can use pet-safe toothpaste or dental gels, which are specially flavoured to be appealing to dogs and cats. Some pets also tolerate a small amount of coconut oil, which can help with acceptance due to its taste and texture.

For pets that won’t tolerate brushing initially, dental wipes are another useful option and can be a great stepping stone toward full brushing.

Always keep sessions short, calm, and positive, and reward your pet afterwards to build a positive association.

 

Ear Cleaning

  • Start with simple ear handling 
  • Allow your pet to sniff the cleaning solution  
  • Clean small amounts initially and build up gradually 

Nail Trimming

Nail trimming should always be introduced using positive reinforcement. This means rewarding your pet for calm, relaxed behaviour so they learn to associate nail care with something pleasant, rather than something to fear.

  • Handle your pet’s paws regularly so they become comfortable with their feet being touched 
  • Introduce nail clippers or grinders by letting your pet see and sniff them, without using them at first 
  • When trimming, start with one nail at a time and immediately reward your pet with praise, treats, or gentle affection 

Keeping sessions short and ending on a positive note helps build trust and confidence. Over time, positive reinforcement teaches your pet that nail trimming is safe, predictable, and even rewarding.

 

Grooming & Bathing

  • Brush for short sessions before your pet becomes restless 
  • Introduce water slowly and calmly 
  • Keep early baths quick and stress-free 

For dogs, using a LickiMat or a thin layer of dog-safe peanut butter spread on the wall can help keep them calm and occupied during bathing or grooming

 

If your pet becomes anxious, stop and try again another day — forcing the process can create lasting fear

Socialising Beyond the Home

Socialisation is about more than meeting other pets — it’s about helping your pet feel comfortable in different environments and situations.

Car Travel & Vet Visits

Many pets associate car rides with stress because they only travel when something unpleasant is about to happen. To help:

  • Take short, positive car trips that don’t always end at the vet 
  • Reward calm behaviour in the car 
  • For cats, leave the carrier out at home so it becomes a familiar, safe space 
  • Occasionally place treats or bedding inside the carrier without closing the door 

Using a Leash & Basic Obedience

Learning to walk comfortably on a leash builds confidence and control:

  • Start indoors or in quiet areas 
  • Use positive reinforcement for calm walking 
  • Avoid pulling or punishment 
  • Short, consistent sessions work best 

Basic obedience training not only improves behaviour but strengthens the bond between you and your pet.

Socialising With Other Dogs, People & Environments

Expose your pet to:

  • Different people (adults, children, people wearing hats or uniforms) 
  • New surfaces and environments 
  • Everyday sounds like traffic, vacuum cleaners, and household noises 

This helps reduce fear-based behaviour and builds emotional resilience.

A Very Important Safety Note About Vaccinations

While socialisation is essential, it must be done safely.

We recommend waiting at least two weeks after your puppy’s third vaccination before:

  • Visiting dog parks 
  • Walking in high-traffic pet areas 
  • Allowing contact with unfamiliar dogs 

Before this point, puppies are vulnerable to serious diseases such as Parvovirus and Distemper. Early socialisation should be limited to healthy, fully vaccinated dogs you know well and controlled environments.

It’s Never Too Late — Conditioning Older Pets

While puppies and kittens learn quickly, adult and senior pets can absolutely benefit from conditioning and socialisation too.

Tips for Older Pets:

  • Move at your pet’s pace 
  • Keep sessions short and positive 
  • Use high-value treats or favourite toys 
  • Be consistent and patient 
  • Celebrate small wins 

Older pets may take longer to adjust, but gradual, positive exposure can significantly improve their comfort and quality of life.

How We Can Help at Bruma Lake Vet

Our team is always happy to help with:

  • Advice for anxious or fearful pets 
  • Making vet visits as calm and positive as possible 

Early effort — or even late effort — makes a lifetime of difference. A well-conditioned, well-socialised pet is easier to care for, more relaxed, and happier overall.

 

If you’re unsure where to start, or if your pet struggles with fear or anxiety, chat to us — we’re here to help.

Interdigital Cysts in Dogs: Causes, Treatment & Long-Term Management

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Rocco’s Story and What Pet Parents Should Know

Interdigital cysts are a common — and often very painful — condition affecting dogs, particularly short-haired, stocky breeds such as Bulldogs, Boxers and Bull Terriers. These lesions appear between the toes and can range from mild swelling to severely inflamed, ulcerated and pus-filled sores.

Recently, Rocco, a handsome Bulldog, came to see us at Bruma Lake Vet with painful lumps between his toes that were making walking uncomfortable. On examination, the lesions were ulcerated and filled with pus — classic signs of interdigital cysts.

Rocco’s case is just one of many presentations we see, and it highlights why early diagnosis and proper management are so important.

What Are Interdigital Cysts?

Despite their name, interdigital “cysts” are not true cysts. They are best described as deep inflammatory lesions that form in the skin between a dog’s toes.

They develop when hair follicles in the webbing between the toes become damaged, blocked or ruptured. This triggers inflammation deep within the skin and often leads to secondary bacterial infection, which causes swelling, pain and discharge.

Over time, these lesions can rupture, ulcerate and recur — making them frustrating for both dogs and their owners if not properly managed.

Why Do Interdigital Cysts Occur?

Interdigital cysts rarely have a single cause. In most cases, several contributing factors are involved.

Common Predisposing Factors

Breed & Paw Conformation
Dogs with broad, splayed feet or poor foot conformation place extra mechanical stress on the skin between their toes. Bulldogs are particularly prone because of the constant pressure and friction in this area.

Coat Type
Short, stiff, bristly hair can easily penetrate the skin between the toes, acting like a foreign body and triggering inflammation.

Allergies
Environmental or food allergies commonly affect the paws. Chronic licking, chewing and inflammation weaken the skin barrier and make infections more likely.

Obesity
Extra body weight increases pressure on the feet, worsening irritation and delaying healing.

Foreign Bodies
Grass seeds, thorns or debris can lodge between the toes and cause local trauma and infection.

Parasites & Infections
Mites, yeast or bacterial infections may contribute to ongoing inflammation.

Hormonal or Immune Conditions
Underlying endocrine disorders or immune-mediated disease can impair skin health and healing.

Clinical Signs to Watch For

Dogs with interdigital cysts may show:

  • Swelling or firm lumps between the toes

  • Redness, ulceration or open sores

  • Pus or bloody discharge

  • Limping or reluctance to walk

  • Excessive licking or chewing at the paws

  • Pain when paws are touched

Because these lesions are painful, dogs may become irritable or less active.

How Are Interdigital Cysts Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually based on:

  • Clinical examination of the paws

  • Assessment of breed, history and recurrence

  • Identifying signs of infection or inflammation

In recurrent or severe cases, additional diagnostics may be recommended, such as:

  • Skin cytology or cultures to identify bacteria or yeast

  • Allergy investigations

  • Biopsies (in rare or non-responsive cases)

  • Blood tests to rule out underlying conditions

Treatment: How We Help Dogs Like Rocco

Treatment depends on severity, infection and whether the condition is acute or chronic.

Medical Management

In Rocco’s case, treatment included:

  • Antibiotics to address secondary bacterial infection

  • Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling

  • Topical cortisone cream to calm inflammation

  • Antiseptic paw washes to keep the area clean and reduce bacterial load

This approach is effective for many dogs when started early.

Supportive Care

  • Keeping paws clean and dry

  • Preventing licking (using cones or boots if needed)

  • Weight management where applicable

Long-Term Management & Prevention

Interdigital cysts can recur, especially in predisposed breeds. Long-term management may include:

  • Regular medicated paw baths

  • Ongoing allergy management if allergies are identified

  • Weight control

  • Routine paw inspections after walks

  • Addressing underlying infections promptly

In chronic, severe or non-responsive cases, surgical intervention or referral to a veterinary dermatologist may be considered.

When Should You See a Vet?

If you notice any swelling, sores, discharge or limping related to your dog’s paws, it’s important to seek veterinary care early. Prompt treatment reduces pain, speeds healing and lowers the risk of recurrence.

Final Thoughts

Interdigital cysts are uncomfortable, frustrating and often recurrent — but with proper diagnosis, treatment and long-term management, most dogs can remain comfortable and active.

Rocco is already well on his way to recovery, and with continued care, we’re hopeful his paws will stay healthy going forward.

If your dog is licking their paws excessively, limping, or has sores between their toes, our team at Bruma Lake Vet is here to help.

The Hidden Dangers of Skipping Parasite Prevention in Pets

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Parasite prevention isn’t just about avoiding scratching or nuisance pests — it’s a critical part of protecting your pet’s overall health. Fleas, ticks and internal parasites can cause serious, sometimes life-threatening illness when prevention is missed or inconsistent.

Fleas: More Than Just an Itch

Fleas are extremely common, especially during warmer months. While many pet owners associate fleas with scratching, the risks go far beyond discomfort.

Fleas can cause:

  • Severe itching and skin infections
  • Flea allergy dermatitis, which can lead to hair loss, wounds and chronic skin disease
  • Tapeworm infections when pets ingest fleas while grooming
  • Anaemia, particularly dangerous for puppies, kittens and small pets

A heavy flea infestation can weaken young or elderly pets quickly — and once fleas establish themselves in your home, they can be very difficult to eliminate.

Ticks: Small Parasites, Serious Consequences

Ticks are more than just a local irritation. Certain tick species in South Africa transmit life-threatening diseases.

Tick-related risks include:

  • Painful local reactions and skin infections
  • Tick bite fever (Ehrlichiosis) — which can cause fever, bleeding disorders, weakness and organ damage
  • Babesiosis — a potentially fatal disease affecting red blood cells, leading to severe anaemia

These illnesses often require intensive treatment and hospitalisation. Preventing tick attachment is far safer — and far less costly — than treating tick-borne disease.

Worms: The Invisible Threat

Internal parasites are often overlooked because they’re not always visible, but they pose serious risks to pets and people.

Worm infestations can cause:

  • Weight loss and poor growth
  • Diarrhoea and vomiting
  • Pot-bellied appearance in puppies
  • Anaemia
  • Zoonotic risk — some worms can infect humans, especially children

Worm burdens increase during wet weather, and when new puppies and kittens are introduced into homes. Regular deworming is essential, even for pets that appear healthy.

Why Regular Preventative Treatment Matters

Parasite preventatives such as flea, tick and worm treatments work best when given consistently and correctly. Missing doses allows parasites to return — often unnoticed — until serious illness develops.

Preventative care:

  • Protects your pet’s health long-term
  • Reduces the risk of expensive emergency treatment
  • Helps keep your home and family safe
  • Supports healthier skin, coat and immune function

How Different Brands Work

Flea & tick options

Frontline (Fipronil)

  • Kills fleas and ticks on contact.
  • Applied topically once a month.
  • Fast-acting, safe for cats and dogs, widely available.
  • Effectiveness decreases with frequent bathing.

Bravecto (Fluralaner)

  • Chewable (dogs only) or topical form.
  • Lasts up to 12 weeks for fleas and ticks.
  • More expensive than monthly treatments

Simparica (Sarolaner)

  • Chewable tablet for dogs only.
  • Protects against fleas and ticks for one month (Simparica Trio offers comprehensive protection against fleas, ticks, heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms)

NexGard (Afoxolaner)

  • Chewable tablet for dogs only.
  • Protects against fleas and ticks for one month

Flea, tick & dewormer combination

NexGard Spectra (Afoxolaner + milbemycin oxime)

  • Chewable tablet for dogs only.
  • Protects against fleas and ticks as well as worms and heartworm for one month
  • More expensive option

NexGard Combo for cats (Esafoxolaner + eprinomectin + praziquantel)

  • Topical spot-on treatment for cats
  • Provides broad-spectrum protection against both external and internal parasites in one monthly treatment.

Revolution Plus (Selamectin + sarolaner)

  • Topical monthly treatment for cats and dogs.
  • Protects against fleas, some ticks, heartworm, and certain intestinal parasites.

Advocate (Imidacloprid + moxidectin)

  • Topical monthly treatment for cats and dogs.
  • Provides comprehensive protection against fleas, heartworm, intestinal worms, ear mites, lice, and mange mites
  • Lack of protection against ticks and tapeworms

No One-Size-Fits-All Approach

When it comes to parasite prevention, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach — your pet’s lifestyle plays a huge role. 

Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors, visit dog parks, or interact with other animals are at higher risk of picking up fleas, ticks, and worms. 

Cats that roam freely are more likely to hunt prey and encounter parasites, while indoor-only pets may have a lower risk but aren’t completely immune. 

Household factors also matter: if you have young children, other pets, or live in a region with high tick or flea prevalence, extra vigilance is important. 

Chewables are oral, long-lasting, no-mess, great for swimmers/sensitive skin, while spot-ons are topical liquids applied to the skin, offering broad-spectrum protection, but can wash off or cause skin irritation. 

The best choice depends on your pet’s habits (swimming, skin sensitivity) and your lifestyle, so consult your vet for tailored advice.

We’re Here to Help

Every pet’s needs are different. Our team can help you choose the right parasite prevention plan for your dog or cat based on their age, lifestyle and risk factors.

If you’re unsure whether your pet is fully protected — or if you’ve missed treatments — chat to us. Prevention is always better than cure.

Coco’s Pancreatitis Journey — What Every Dog Owner Should Know

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Meet Coco, a brave little patient who recently spent an extended period in our hospital recovering from pancreatitis. We’re thrilled to share that he has improved enough to go home — but his journey is an important reminder of how serious this condition can be, how varied the causes are, and why early veterinary care is essential.

What Is Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is a condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed and begins releasing digestive enzymes prematurely. Instead of activating in the intestines (where they should), these enzymes activate inside the pancreas, leading to:

  • Self-digestion of pancreatic tissue
  • Inflammation of surrounding organs
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Systemic illness that can quickly become life-threatening

Pancreatitis can affect dogs of any breed, age, or size, and it may occur once (acute pancreatitis) or recur over time (chronic pancreatitis).

Coco’s Case: A Sudden and Severe Onset

Coco arrived at Bruma Lake Vet showing classic symptoms:

  • Persistent vomiting shortly after eating
  • Intense abdominal pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy and dehydration

Although pancreatitis is often triggered by eating a high-fat meal, that wasn’t the case for Coco. He actually eats a prescription gastrointestinal diet and avoids fatty foods entirely — a good reminder that not all pancreatitis cases have a dietary cause.

Initial examinations raised suspicion, and a Canine Specific Pancreatic Lipase (cPL) test confirmed it, returning extremely high levels. Blood tests also revealed dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and strain on his kidneys.

Thanks to early intervention, Coco responded well to treatment, and he is now home on a special diet of small, frequent meals, pain medication, and regular follow-ups.

Causes of Pancreatitis in Dogs

While some cases appear seemingly out of the blue, several factors can increase the risk. These include:

1. Dietary Causes

  • Sudden ingestion of fatty or oily foods (e.g., table scraps, leftovers, braai fat)
  • Spicy or highly processed human foods

2. Metabolic or Hormonal Diseases

  • Hypothyroidism
  • Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism)
  • Diabetes mellitus

These conditions can change fat metabolism and trigger inflammation.

3. Obesity

  • Overweight dogs have a significantly higher risk.

4. Certain Medications

Some drugs can predispose dogs to pancreatic irritation, including:

  • Corticosteroids
  • Certain antibiotics
  • Some anti-seizure medications

5. Genetic or Breed Predisposition

Some breeds are more prone, including:

  • Miniature Schnauzers
  • Yorkshire Terriers
  • Cocker Spaniels
  • Dachshunds

6. Trauma or Shock

Abdominal injury or severe systemic shock can trigger inflammation of the pancreas.

7. Idiopathic Causes

In many cases — like Coco’s — no obvious trigger is found. A genetic predisposition is suspected in these dogs.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Pancreatitis can vary from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

  • Vomiting (sometimes multiple times per day)
  • Abdominal pain (often severe)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Diarrhoea
  • Restlessness or panting
  • Hunched posture
  • Fever

Severe cases may lead to:

  • Collapse
  • Jaundice
  • Heart arrhythmias
  • Organ failure

Any dog showing these symptoms should be seen by a vet immediately.

pancreatitis diagramme

How Pancreatitis Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis involves a combination of:

1. Clinical Symptoms & Physical Examination

Abdominal pain, vomiting and dehydration raise suspicion early on.

2. Blood Tests

These assess:

  • Electrolytes
  • Kidney and liver function
  • Inflammatory markers
  • Hydration levels

These results guide the treatment plan.

3. cPL (Canine Specific Pancreatic Lipase) Test

This is one of the most accurate blood tests for detecting pancreatic inflammation. A high result strongly supports a diagnosis of pancreatitis.

4. Abdominal Ultrasound

Ultrasound helps:

  • Confirm pancreatic swelling or changes
  • Identify complications
  • Rule out other causes of vomiting or pain

5. X-rays (in some cases)

Useful to exclude intestinal obstruction or other conditions with similar symptoms.

Treatment Options for Pancreatitis

Because pancreatitis can become life-threatening, treatment is often aggressive and may require hospitalisation.

Treatment may include:

1. Intravenous Fluids

To correct dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and support kidney function.

2. Pain Relief

Pancreatitis is very painful — strong pain medication is essential for recovery.

3. Anti-Nausea & Anti-Vomiting Medication

To stop persistent vomiting and allow food to stay down.

4. Dietary Management

  • Low-fat, highly digestible food
  • Small, frequent meals
  • Gradual reintroduction of normal intake

5. Antibiotics

Not always needed, but used if infection is suspected.

6. Monitoring for Complications

Such as:

  • Kidney injury
  • Liver inflammation
  • Diabetes
  • Systemic infections
  • Shock

Coco required IV fluids, pain management, anti-nausea medication, and careful nutritional support — and thankfully responded well.

Prognosis and Long-Term Management

Many dogs recover fully, especially if treated early. Some may develop chronic pancreatitis and require ongoing dietary management.

Long-term care may include:

  • Prescription low-fat diets
  • Weight management
  • Avoiding all table scraps
  • Monitoring blood work
  • Managing underlying conditions (e.g., hypothyroidism)

Coco will continue to be monitored through follow-up blood tests to ensure his recovery remains on track.

How to Prevent Pancreatitis

  • Avoid feeding fatty foods or human leftovers
  • Keep pets at a healthy weight
  • Use only vet-approved treats
  • Store rubbish securely
  • Manage hormonal or metabolic diseases early
  • Choose pet foods appropriately (especially for sensitive dogs)

Final Thoughts

Pancreatitis is a serious condition — but with prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment and careful long-term management, many dogs like Coco can make a strong recovery.

If your dog shows symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain or loss of appetite, contact us right away. Early intervention can make all the difference.

💙 Bruma Lake Vet — Caring for your pets with knowledge, compassion and experience.

The Little Lump With a Big Lesson: Understanding Histiocytomas in Dogs

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Some years ago, we treated a memorable case involving Godzilla, an adorable six-month-old Bulldog pup who developed a peculiar skin growth behind his left foreleg. The lump was button-shaped, hairless, and ulcerated — enough to worry any pet parent.

Why We Can’t Diagnose Lumps Just by Looking

When it comes to skin growths, even experienced vets cannot diagnose a lump purely by sight or touch. Many different conditions look similar on the surface.

In Godzilla’s case, I performed a fine-needle aspirate, using a small needle and syringe to collect cells from the mass. After staining the sample and examining it under a microscope, I was able to make a diagnosis. (If this test is inconclusive, we send samples to a laboratory for further analysis.)

The Diagnosis: Histiocytoma

Godzilla’s lump turned out to be a histiocytoma — a benign skin tumour. These do not spread to other areas and usually do not cause serious harm. dog skin tumour

Histiocytomas are:

  • Common in young dogs under two years old 
  • Reported more frequently in Bulldogs, Boxers, Bull Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, and Great Danes 
  • But in reality, they can occur in almost any breed 

Do Histiocytomas Go Away on Their Own?

Most histiocytomas resolve naturally within 2–3 months. However, removal is recommended if they:

  • Become infected 
  • Grow large 
  • Cause discomfort or irritation 
  • Show features suspicious for the rare malignant form (Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma) 

In these cases, the growth is surgically removed and often sent to a specialist pathologist for confirmation.

A Reminder to All Pet Parents

Always have any new lump or bump examined by your vet. It is not possible to determine exactly what a mass is simply by looking or feeling it.

What Happened to Godzilla?

Godzilla’s histiocytoma needed to be removed — and we’re pleased to share that he made an excellent recovery. Thank you to Ashley Liu (Godzilla’s mom) for the beautiful collage of his journey.

Till next time,
 Dr Larry
 Bruma Lake Veterinary Clinic

Understanding Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease — Rollo’s Story

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When Rollo, a much-loved male cat, arrived at the clinic recently, he was in serious trouble. He was blocked — meaning a stone in his urethra had prevented him from passing urine. This is one of the most dangerous emergencies we see in male cats and forms part of what we call Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD).

A urethral blockage is not something that can wait. Even a few hours can lead to:

  • Life-threatening electrolyte disturbances
  • Acute kidney failure
  • Bladder rupture
  • Severe pain and shock 

Longer-term complications may include chronic kidney disease and a hypotonic bladder (a bladder that can no longer contract effectively).

Fortunately, Rollo’s owner recognised the danger early and brought him in immediately — which saved his life.

How We Treated Rollo

On examination, it was clear that Rollo’s bladder was dangerously enlarged and he was unable to urinate at all — a red-flag emergency.

Here’s what we did:

  1. Cleared the blockage to allow urine to pass. 
  2. Passed a urinary catheter, which we stitched in place to keep it secure. 
  3. Started IV fluids to support his kidneys and flush out crystals. 
  4. Placed him in a collar so he can’t pull out the catheter. 
  5. Ran blood tests to check his kidney function and electrolyte levels. 
  6. Admitted him to hospital for monitoring. 

The catheter will stay in for about two days to keep the bladder empty and prevent it from overstretching — an important step in avoiding a hypotonic bladder later. After removal, Rollo will stay with us for one more day to ensure he doesn’t block again.

Thankfully, he is doing really well so far.

What Is FLUTD?

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) refers to a group of conditions that affect the bladder and urethra in cats. Male cats are particularly at risk because their urethra is narrow and more easily obstructed.

There are several different forms of FLUTD, including:

1. Urethral Obstruction (Blocked Cat)

Often caused by crystals, mucus plugs, or stones that block urine flow. This is always an emergency.

2. Urolithiasis (Bladder or Urethral Stones)

Stones can irritate the bladder, cause bleeding, or lead to full obstruction — as in Rollo’s case.

3. Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC)

A very common condition linked to inflammation, stress, and environmental factors. Symptoms mimic an infection but occur without bacteria.This disease also occurs in female cats.

4. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

More common in older cats or those with other health conditions like kidney disease or diabetes.

5. Urethral Spasm

Muscle spasms around the urethra can make urination painful or difficult.

6. Trauma or Anatomical Abnormalities

Less common but still part of FLUTD.

Signs of FLUTD You Should Never Ignore

Contact a vet immediately if you notice:

  • Straining in the litter box
  • Producing only drops of urine
  • Pain or crying while urinating
  • Frequent trips to the litter box with little output
  • Blood in the urine
  • Excessive licking of the genital area
  • Vomiting, lethargy, or collapse (late, severe signs) 

For male cats, straining to urinate is always an emergency. Even if they produce a few drops, they may still be partially blocked.

Can FLUTD Be Prevented?

In many cases, yes — especially when caused by crystals or inflammation.

Prevention may include:

  • Monitoring for early symptoms
  • Prescription urinary diets
  • Improving food quality, as less nutritious and unbalanced diets increase the incidence of crystals in the urine and hence blockages
  • Increasing water intake
  • Weight management
  • Reducing stress and improving environmental enrichment
  • Regular veterinary checks including urine evaluation and blood tests 

Your vet will recommend a long-term plan based on which form of FLUTD your cat has.

Rollo’s Prognosis

Thanks to early treatment, Rollo is recovering beautifully. He will stay with us for monitoring after catheter removal to ensure he doesn’t re-block — a risk in the first few days.

His story is a powerful reminder: If your male cat is struggling to urinate, act fast. It truly can be the difference between life and death.