CONDITION REFERENCES
Condition reference index
Find related reading from common presentations. These are knowledge references, not diagnoses.
Digestive
Gastroenteritis reference
Vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, low energy, or dehydration can map to gastroenteritis references.
- Digestive disease: vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, pancreas, parasites and obstruction
- Vomiting in cats and dogs: decide urgency, then record the episode clearly
- Cat and dog diarrhea: stool records and visit preparation
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Pancreatitis reference
Vomiting, belly pain, appetite refusal, weakness, or illness after rich food can map to pancreatitis references.
- Vomiting with belly pain: record signs without diagnosing pancreatitis at home
- Digestive disease: vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, pancreas, parasites and obstruction
- Vomiting in cats and dogs: decide urgency, then record the episode clearly
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Foreign body obstruction reference
Possible foreign object ingestion, repeated vomiting, retching, belly swelling, belly pain, or stool change can map to obstruction references.
- Swallowed foreign objects: preserve information and triage risk
- Bloat and GDV warning signs: distension, retching, restlessness and collapse
- Digestive disease: vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, pancreas, parasites and obstruction
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - ACVS Animal Health Topics ↗American College of Veterinary Surgeons · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Constipation reference
Difficulty passing stool, straining, no stool for more than a day or two, or painful stool passage can map to constipation references.
- Constipation and straining: separate stool trouble from pain or urinary blockage
- Digestive disease: vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, pancreas, parasites and obstruction
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Skin
Ringworm / dermatophyte reference
Round hair loss, scaling, crusting, or multi-pet skin problems can map to ringworm and dermatophyte references.
- Ringworm and dermatophytes: household protection and confirmation
- Skin disease: itch, infection, ringworm, mites, fleas and allergy
- Itchy skin, rashes and hot spots: record the pattern first
- CDC Healthy Pets, Healthy People ↗Centers for Disease Control and Prevention · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Cornell Feline Health Center ↗Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Bacterial skin infection / pyoderma reference
Redness, hot spots, oozing, crusting, pain, or ongoing licking can map to bacterial skin infection and pyoderma references.
- Skin disease: itch, infection, ringworm, mites, fleas and allergy
- Itchy skin, rashes and hot spots: record the pattern first
- Recurring allergy-like flares: read face rubbing and paw licking as a pattern
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Allergic dermatitis / flea allergy reference
Itching, licking, rash, face swelling, flea exposure, or recurrent skin flares can map to allergic dermatitis and flea allergy references.
- Skin disease: itch, infection, ringworm, mites, fleas and allergy
- Recurring allergy-like flares: read face rubbing and paw licking as a pattern
- Flea, tick and heartworm prevention: track products and risk
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- CAPC Pet Owner Resources ↗Companion Animal Parasite Council · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Eye / ear
Conjunctivitis / corneal disease reference
Red eye, eye discharge, squinting, rubbing, watery eye, or cloudiness can map to conjunctivitis and corneal disease references.
- Eye and ear disease: conjunctivitis, corneal disease, tearing, cataract, mites and otitis
- Red eye, squinting and discharge: do not delay eye care
- Red eye, squinting and discharge: the first-aid boundary
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Cataract / eye cloudiness reference
Cloudy eyes, vision change, or bumping into objects can map to cataract and eye-cloudiness references.
- Eye and ear disease: conjunctivitis, corneal disease, tearing, cataract, mites and otitis
- Red eye, squinting and discharge: do not delay eye care
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Otitis / ear mites reference
Head shaking, ear discharge, odor, pain when touched, or balance change can map to otitis and ear mite references.
- Eye and ear disease: conjunctivitis, corneal disease, tearing, cataract, mites and otitis
- Ear shaking, odor and discharge: check comfort before cleaning
- Ear odor, scratching and shaking: safe cleaning boundaries
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- CAPC Pet Owner Resources ↗Companion Animal Parasite Council · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Urinary / kidney
Feline urinary obstruction / lower urinary tract disease reference
Frequent litter box trips, small urinations, blood in urine, crying, or no urine in cats can map to feline urinary obstruction and lower urinary tract references.
- Frequent litter-box visits: is your cat passing urine?
- Urinary and kidney disease: blockage, cystitis, crystals, stones, infection and kidney disease
- Urination changes: separate frequency, output, and leaks
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - International Cat Care Advice ↗International Cat Care / ISFM · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Cystitis / urinary tract infection / crystals / stones reference
Frequent small urinations, blood, painful urination, or new urine accidents can map to cystitis, UTI, crystals, and stones references.
- Crystals, infection, and stones: questions about urinary tests
- Urinary and kidney disease: blockage, cystitis, crystals, stones, infection and kidney disease
- Urination changes: separate frequency, output, and leaks
- Litter-box stress: build an environment record for follow-up
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- International Cat Care Advice ↗International Cat Care / ISFM · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Kidney disease reference
Increased thirst, urination change, weight loss, appetite loss, or low energy can map to kidney disease references.
- Kidney disease observations: separate trends from urgency
- Urinary and kidney disease: blockage, cystitis, crystals, stones, infection and kidney disease
- Sudden increased drinking and urination: record amounts and timing
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Chronic kidney disease
Changes in thirst, urination, appetite, weight, vomiting, or energy can be important clues and need veterinary context.
- Home monitoring for known kidney disease: follow the plan and notice changes
- Kidney disease observations: separate trends from urgency
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules.
Infectious
Feline panleukopenia
In young or incompletely vaccinated cats, vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, or weakness makes severe infectious disease such as panleukopenia a reference concern.
- Infectious diseases: common cat and dog infections and red flags
- Puppy and kitten vomiting or diarrhea: what to tell the clinic
- Cornell Feline Health Center ↗Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - WSAVA Global Guidelines ↗World Small Animal Veterinary Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Feline herpesvirus upper respiratory disease
Sneezing, nasal discharge, eye discharge, or red eyes in cats can map to feline upper respiratory disease references including herpesvirus.
- Infectious diseases: common cat and dog infections and red flags
- Respiratory disease: sneezing, discharge, cough and breathing effort
- Sneezing, nasal discharge and upper-airway signs: track breathing and eating
- Cornell Feline Health Center ↗Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- International Cat Care Advice ↗International Cat Care / ISFM · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules.
Feline calicivirus-associated respiratory or oral disease
In cats, respiratory signs with drooling, oral pain, or appetite refusal can map to calicivirus-related reference content.
- Infectious diseases: common cat and dog infections and red flags
- Respiratory disease: sneezing, discharge, cough and breathing effort
- Dental and oral disease: tartar, gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontal disease and odor
- Cornell Feline Health Center ↗Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- International Cat Care Advice ↗International Cat Care / ISFM · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules.
Feline infectious peritonitis reference
In cats, ongoing low energy, appetite loss, weight loss, belly enlargement, or fever-like signs can map to complex infectious disease references such as FIP.
- Infectious diseases: common cat and dog infections and red flags
- Fever-like signs and marked lethargy: record state without guessing temperature
- Digestive disease: vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, pancreas, parasites and obstruction
- Cornell Feline Health Center ↗Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
FeLV/FIV reference
Recurrent low energy, weight loss, oral disease, infection-like signs, or enlarged lymph-node areas in cats can map to FeLV/FIV reference content.
- Infectious diseases: common cat and dog infections and red flags
- Dental and oral disease: tartar, gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontal disease and odor
- Oncology: masses, mammary tumors, lymphoma, skin, oral and internal tumors
- Cornell Feline Health Center ↗Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Canine distemper reference
In young or incompletely vaccinated dogs, nasal or eye discharge, cough, fever-like signs, diarrhea, or neurologic signs can map to distemper references.
- Infectious diseases: common cat and dog infections and red flags
- Respiratory disease: sneezing, discharge, cough and breathing effort
- The first year: a practical plan for puppies and kittens
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- WSAVA Global Guidelines ↗World Small Animal Veterinary Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Canine parvovirus reference
Vomiting, watery or bloody diarrhea, appetite refusal, or weakness in young or incompletely vaccinated dogs can map to parvovirus references.
- Infectious diseases: common cat and dog infections and red flags
- Puppy and kitten vomiting or diarrhea: what to tell the clinic
- Digestive disease: vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, pancreas, parasites and obstruction
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- WSAVA Global Guidelines ↗World Small Animal Veterinary Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- AVMA Pet Owner Resources ↗American Veterinary Medical Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Kennel cough / canine infectious respiratory disease reference
Cough in dogs, especially after boarding, daycare, or dog-group exposure, can map to kennel cough or infectious respiratory disease references.
- Infectious diseases: common cat and dog infections and red flags
- Respiratory disease: sneezing, discharge, cough and breathing effort
- Coughing and kennel-cough-like signs: record breathing and exposure
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - WSAVA Global Guidelines ↗World Small Animal Veterinary Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Canine influenza reference
Cough, nasal discharge, fever-like signs, or low energy after dog-group exposure can map to canine influenza and infectious respiratory references.
- Infectious diseases: common cat and dog infections and red flags
- Respiratory disease: sneezing, discharge, cough and breathing effort
- Coughing and kennel-cough-like signs: record breathing and exposure
- AVMA Pet Owner Resources ↗American Veterinary Medical Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- WSAVA Global Guidelines ↗World Small Animal Veterinary Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Respiratory
Upper respiratory infection reference
Sneezing, nasal discharge, eye or nose discharge, cough, or fever-like signs can map to upper respiratory infection references.
- Respiratory disease: sneezing, discharge, cough and breathing effort
- Sneezing, nasal discharge and upper-airway signs: track breathing and eating
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - Cornell Feline Health Center ↗Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- International Cat Care Advice ↗International Cat Care / ISFM · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Bronchitis / pneumonia reference
Cough, fast breathing, fever-like signs, low energy, or exercise intolerance can map to bronchitis and pneumonia references.
- Respiratory disease: sneezing, discharge, cough and breathing effort
- Coughing and kennel-cough-like signs: record breathing and exposure
- Persistent cough and exercise breathlessness: record effort, not a diagnosis
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Feline asthma / lower airway disease reference
Wheezing, cough, breathing effort, or exercise intolerance in cats can map to feline asthma and lower airway disease references.
- Respiratory disease: sneezing, discharge, cough and breathing effort
- Persistent cough and exercise breathlessness: record effort, not a diagnosis
- Cornell Feline Health Center ↗Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Bone / injury
Fracture / sprain / trauma reference
Hit-by-car, falls, bleeding, wounds, limping, or not bearing weight can map to fracture, sprain, and trauma references.
- Orthopedic and trauma disease: fractures, sprains, dislocations, arthritis and discs
- Lameness and limb discomfort: limit activity and record the change
- Bites, punctures and infection risk: record even a small wound
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - ACVS Animal Health Topics ↗American College of Veterinary Surgeons · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Arthritis / patellar luxation / hip disease reference
Recurrent limping, worse after activity, reluctance to jump, difficulty rising, or chronic pain can map to arthritis, patella, and hip references.
- Orthopedic and trauma disease: fractures, sprains, dislocations, arthritis and discs
- Slower movement and pain observations: bring daily changes to the vet
- Lameness and limb discomfort: limit activity and record the change
- ACVS Animal Health Topics ↗American College of Veterinary Surgeons · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Intervertebral disc / spinal neurologic reference
Back pain, weak rear legs, reluctance to walk, sudden pain, or neurologic signs can map to spinal and intervertebral disc references.
- Orthopedic and trauma disease: fractures, sprains, dislocations, arthritis and discs
- Lameness and limb discomfort: limit activity and record the change
- ACVS Animal Health Topics ↗American College of Veterinary Surgeons · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules.
Osteoarthritis and chronic joint pain
Slower rising, avoiding stairs, limping, or less grooming and play can indicate pain even without crying.
- Arthritis and mobility change: make movement safer
- Senior joint pain: home setup, mobility records and quality of life
- AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- AVMA Pet Owner Resources ↗American Veterinary Medical Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules.
Dental / oral
Dental tartar / gingivitis / periodontal disease reference
Bad breath, loose teeth, trouble chewing, drooling, or mouth bleeding can map to dental tartar, gingivitis, and periodontal disease references.
- Dental and oral disease: tartar, gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontal disease and odor
- Dental pain, drooling and odor: observe eating instead of forcing the mouth open
- Dental prevention: notice mouth changes at home
- AAHA: Dog and Cat Dental Disease ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- American Veterinary Dental College ↗American Veterinary Dental College · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Stomatitis / oral pain reference
Drooling, appetite refusal, oral pain, mouth bleeding, or oral swelling can map to stomatitis and oral pain references.
- Dental and oral disease: tartar, gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontal disease and odor
- Dental pain, drooling and odor: observe eating instead of forcing the mouth open
- AAHA: Dog and Cat Dental Disease ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- American Veterinary Dental College ↗American Veterinary Dental College · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Periodontal and dental disease
Bad breath, tartar, drooling, chewing changes, or dropping food can be signs of oral pain.
- Dental home care: build cooperation before brushing
- Dental and oral disease: tartar, gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontal disease and odor
- AAHA: Dog and Cat Dental Disease ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- American Veterinary Dental College ↗American Veterinary Dental College · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Toxins / accidents
Toxin exposure: medication, chocolate, onion, grapes, lilies, rodenticide, cleaners reference
Medication, chocolate, grape, onion, lily exposure in cats, rodenticide, or cleaner exposure maps directly to toxin and accident references.
- Toxins and accidents: medicines, foods, lilies, rodenticide, cleaners, heat and trauma
- Possible poisoning: make the first call useful
- Household products and plants: call first, gather exposure details
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control ↗ASPCA · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- FDA Animal & Veterinary Resources ↗U.S. Food and Drug Administration · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules.
Heatstroke / heat injury and accident reference
Heat exposure, fast breathing, weakness, collapse, hit-by-car, or falls can map to heat injury and accident references.
- Toxins and accidents: medicines, foods, lilies, rodenticide, cleaners, heat and trauma
- Heat exposure and overheating: reduce stress and call for help
- Flat-faced dog breathing, snoring and heat risk: distinguish baseline noise from effort
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - WSAVA Global Guidelines ↗World Small Animal Veterinary Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Parasites
Intestinal parasites: roundworm, tapeworm, hookworm, coccidia reference
Worm-like segments, diarrhea, soft stool, young age, or uncertain prevention can map to intestinal parasite references.
- Intestinal parasites: worms, segments, diarrhea and household risk
- Parasite disease: fleas, ticks, mites, intestinal worms, coccidia and heartworm
- Fleas, ticks or worms: save clues before choosing a plan
- Flea, tick and heartworm prevention: track products and risk
- CAPC Pet Owner Resources ↗Companion Animal Parasite Council · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
External parasites: fleas, ticks, mites reference
Itching, hair loss, flea dirt, tick exposure, itchy ears, or crusting can map to flea, tick, ear mite, or mange references.
- Parasite disease: fleas, ticks, mites, intestinal worms, coccidia and heartworm
- Flea, tick and heartworm prevention: track products and risk
- Ear shaking, odor and discharge: check comfort before cleaning
- CAPC Pet Owner Resources ↗Companion Animal Parasite Council · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- CDC Healthy Pets, Healthy People ↗Centers for Disease Control and Prevention · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Heartworm reference
Uncertain prevention, mosquito exposure, cough, exercise intolerance, or breathing change can map to heartworm references.
- Parasite disease: fleas, ticks, mites, intestinal worms, coccidia and heartworm
- Flea, tick and heartworm prevention: track products and risk
- Cardiovascular disease: enlargement, cardiomyopathy, valves, failure and hypertension
- American Heartworm Society Pet Owner Resources ↗American Heartworm Society · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- CAPC Pet Owner Resources ↗Companion Animal Parasite Council · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Tumors
Tumor / mammary tumor / lymphoma / skin tumor reference
New lumps, rapid growth, ulceration, mammary lumps, or enlarged lymph-node areas can map to tumor-related references.
- Oncology: masses, mammary tumors, lymphoma, skin, oral and internal tumors
- New lumps, bumps and swelling: record change instead of guessing type
- ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Behavior / neuro
Anxiety / aggression / separation-related behavior reference
Anxiety, hiding, sudden aggression, separation-related changes, or behavior change can map to behavior references while prompting medical rule-out.
- Behavior and neurologic disease: anxiety, aggression, house-soiling, seizures, vestibular and cognitive change
- Sudden behavior change, pacing or confusion: record safety and timing
- Travel, boarding and stress-related changes: use the exposure timeline
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Inappropriate urination: behavior or urinary disease reference
New inappropriate urination may be behavioral stress or urinary disease, so it maps to both behavior and urinary references.
- Behavior and neurologic disease: anxiety, aggression, house-soiling, seizures, vestibular and cognitive change
- Litter-box stress: build an environment record for follow-up
- Urinary and kidney disease: blockage, cystitis, crystals, stones, infection and kidney disease
- International Cat Care Advice ↗International Cat Care / ISFM · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Epilepsy / seizure reference
Seizure, rigid body, repeated episodes, collapse, or disorientation after an episode can map to seizure and epilepsy references.
- Jerking, fainting or imbalance: describing an unexplained event
- Behavior and neurologic disease: anxiety, aggression, house-soiling, seizures, vestibular and cognitive change
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Vestibular signs / cognitive dysfunction reference
Head tilt, circling, balance loss, abnormal eye movement, getting lost, or day-night reversal can map to vestibular and cognitive references.
- Jerking, fainting or imbalance: describing an unexplained event
- Behavior and neurologic disease: anxiety, aggression, house-soiling, seizures, vestibular and cognitive change
- Senior pets pacing at night or seeming confused: check health before labeling aging
- Senior pet care: track an individual baseline
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Seizure disorder reference
The first seizure, a changing pattern, prolonged episodes, or repeated seizures needs veterinary assessment.
- At a suspected seizure: protect, time and call
- Jerking, fainting or imbalance: describing an unexplained event
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules. - Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- AVMA Pet Owner Resources ↗American Veterinary Medical Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Heart
Cardiomyopathy / valve disease / heart failure / hypertension reference
Cough, exercise intolerance, fast breathing, ascites/pleural fluid/pulmonary edema clues, collapse, or abnormal gum color can map to cardiovascular disease references.
- After a heart diagnosis: a useful follow-up record
- Counting resting breaths: a record your veterinarian can compare
- Cardiovascular disease: enlargement, cardiomyopathy, valves, failure and hypertension
- Persistent cough and exercise breathlessness: record effort, not a diagnosis
- ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: When to See a Veterinarian ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Editorial check: 2026-10-12 · Source date: Not clearly stated on source
Supports immediate-care warning signs such as breathing difficulty, white or blue gums, severe or constant pain, seizures, bloody or uncontrollable diarrhea, black stool, and straining without urine. It does not independently support diagnoses, treatments, or all historical triage rules.
Endocrine
Obesity / weight management reference
Weight gain, reduced activity tolerance, or long-term diet-management concerns can map to obesity and weight management references.
- Thyroid, Cushing and adrenal patterns: read weight, coat, thirst and weakness together
- Endocrine and metabolic disease: obesity, diabetes, thyroid, Cushing and adrenal problems
- Weight, nutrition and body condition: track the trend with repeatable measures
- WSAVA Global Guidelines ↗World Small Animal Veterinary Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Diabetes reference
Increased thirst and urination, weight loss, appetite change, or low energy can map to diabetes references.
- Endocrine and metabolic disease: obesity, diabetes, thyroid, Cushing and adrenal problems
- Weight loss with increased thirst or urination: why evaluation matters
- Sudden increased drinking and urination: record amounts and timing
- ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Thyroid / Cushing / adrenal disease reference
Weight, thirst, urination, appetite, energy, or coat changes can map to thyroid, Cushing-like, and adrenal references.
- Thyroid, Cushing and adrenal patterns: read weight, coat, thirst and weakness together
- Endocrine and metabolic disease: obesity, diabetes, thyroid, Cushing and adrenal problems
- Weight, nutrition and body condition: track the trend with repeatable measures
- ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Diabetes mellitus
Increased thirst or urination, weight loss despite eating, and weakness are reasons to arrange a veterinary examination.
- Diabetes warning signs: drinking, urination and weight change
- Weight, nutrition and body condition: track the trend with repeatable measures
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- AVMA Pet Owner Resources ↗American Veterinary Medical Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Feline hyperthyroidism
Older cats that lose weight despite eating, drink more, vomit, or become restless should be examined.
- Feline hyperthyroidism: appetite, weight and activity changes
- Thyroid, Cushing and adrenal patterns: read weight, coat, thirst and weakness together
- Cornell Feline Health Center ↗Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- AAHA Clinical Practice Guidelines ↗American Animal Hospital Association · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Reproductive
Pyometra reference
An unspayed female with low energy, vaginal discharge, vomiting, fever-like signs, or increased thirst can map to pyometra references.
- Pyometra and reproductive emergencies: discharge and systemic change in an unspayed female
- Reproductive disease: pyometra, mastitis, false pregnancy, testicular and prostate problems
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Mastitis / false pregnancy / mammary concern reference
Mammary swelling or pain, mammary lumps, possible pregnancy, or postpartum concerns can map to mastitis, false pregnancy, and mammary references.
- Reproductive disease: pyometra, mastitis, false pregnancy, testicular and prostate problems
- Oncology: masses, mammary tumors, lymphoma, skin, oral and internal tumors
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
Testicular / prostate concern reference
Testicle swelling or pain, straining to urinate or defecate, or rear-end discomfort can map to testicular and prostate references.
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Pet Owners Overview ↗Merck Veterinary Manual · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending
- ACVIM Specialist Resources ↗American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine · Legacy resource; claim mapping pending