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Abdomen

The area of a pet’s body between the chest and pelvis, containing vital organs such as the stomach, liver, and intestines.

Abdominal cavity

The space within the abdomen of pets that contains the digestive, reproductive, and urinary organs, as well as blood vessels and nerves.

Abdominal distension

A swelling or bloating of the abdomen in pets, which can be caused by fluid buildup, organ enlargement, or other medical conditions.

Abdominal ultrasound

A diagnostic test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the organs and tissues inside a pet’s abdomen, which can help diagnose medical conditions such as tumors or organ failure.

Abdominocentesis

A diagnostic procedure in which a needle is inserted into the abdominal cavity of pets and other animals to collect fluid for analysis, which can be used to diagnose medical conditions such as ascites or peritonitis.

Ablation

A medical procedure in pets and other animals, which involves the removal or destruction of abnormal tissue or cells, such as in the treatment of tumors or abnormal heart rhythms.

Ablation therapy

A medical procedure used to destroy abnormal tissue in pets, such as cancer cells or abnormal heart tissue, using heat, cold, or other methods.

Abnormal behavior

Any behavior in pets and other animals that deviates from normal or expected patterns, which can be caused by various factors such as medical conditions, stress, or environmental factors.

Abnormality

Any deviation from normal or expected structure or function in pets and other animals, which can be caused by genetic, developmental, or environmental factors.

Abscess

A localized collection of pus in pets, which can be caused by bacterial infections or injuries.

Acclimation

The process of gradually adapting a pet to new environments or situations to minimize stress and anxiety.

Acclimatization

The process of adapting to a new climate or environment, which can be important for pets and other animals that are relocated or travel to new areas.

Acetaminophen

A pain reliever and fever reducer medication used for pets and other animals, which can be toxic in high doses and should only be given under veterinary supervision.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter in pets and other animals, which plays a role in muscle contraction, heart function, and other physiological processes.

Acid reflux

A digestive disorder in pets, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), characterized by the regurgitation of stomach acid into the esophagus.

Acromegaly

A hormonal disorder in pets, in which the pituitary gland produces too much growth hormone, causing excessive growth and other symptoms.

Active immunity

Immunity acquired by a pet’s immune system in response to exposure to a pathogen or vaccine, which can provide long-lasting protection against future infections.

Acupressure

A complementary therapy in pets and other animals, which involves the application of pressure to specific points on the body to relieve pain, reduce stress, or treat various medical conditions.

Acupuncture

An alternative therapy for pets that involves the insertion of needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote healing.

Acute

Describing a sudden onset of symptoms or a severe illness in pets, such as acute kidney failure or acute pancreatitis.

Acute phase proteins

Proteins produced by the liver in response to inflammation or other types of tissue damage in pets and other animals, which can be used as biomarkers for various medical conditions.

Adenocarcinoma

A type of cancer that originates in glandular tissue, which can affect various organs in pets and other animals.

Adenoma

A benign tumor that originates in glandular tissue in pets and other animals, which can be treated through surgery or other interventions if it causes problems.

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)

A molecule that stores and releases energy in cells of pets and other organisms, which is essential for many biological processes such as muscle contraction and nerve function.

Adhesion

A type of scar tissue in pets and other animals, which forms between tissues or organs and can cause pain, inflammation, or reduced mobility.

Adipose tissue

Fat tissue in pets and other animals, which serves as an energy store and insulation.

Adiposity

The degree to which a pet or other animal is overweight or obese, which can increase the risk of various medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis.

Adjuvant therapy

Additional treatment given to pets with cancer after surgery or radiation therapy, such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy, to destroy remaining cancer cells and prevent recurrence.

Adoption

The act of taking a homeless animal into one’s home and providing it with love, care, and shelter.

Adrenal gland

A gland in pets and other animals, which produces hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, and plays a key role in the body’s stress response and metabolism.

Adrenal glands

Small organs located near the kidneys in pets and other animals, which produce hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol that help regulate metabolism and stress responses.

Adrenal insufficiency

A condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones, which can cause weakness, lethargy, and other symptoms in pets and other animals.

Adrenergic

Describing drugs or nerve fibers that activate or mimic the effects of the hormone adrenaline in pets and other animals, which can affect the cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous systems.

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland in pets and other animals, which stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol and other hormones.

Aerobic exercise

Physical activity that requires oxygen and increases heart rate and breathing rate in pets and other animals, such as running, swimming, and playing fetch.

Aerosolization

The process of converting a liquid or solid substance into a fine mist or spray in pets and other animals, which can be used for medication delivery or disease transmission.

Afferent nerve

A nerve in pets and other animals that carries sensory information from the body to the brain or spinal cord, such as pain, touch, or temperature.

Agar

A gel-like substance derived from seaweed, used in microbiology to culture bacteria and other microorganisms.

Agglutination

The clumping together of cells or particles in pets and other animals, which can occur as a result of antigen-antibody reactions or other chemical interactions.

Aggression

Hostile behavior in pets, which can be caused by fear, anxiety, or territorial instincts.

Aggression training

Behavioral training for pets to manage or reduce aggressive behavior, which can be caused by fear, anxiety, or territorial instincts.

Agility

A competitive sport for dogs that involves running through a course of obstacles such as tunnels, jumps, and weave poles.

Agonal breathing

Irregular or gasping breaths that can occur in pets and other animals in the final moments of life.

Agonist

A substance or medication that activates or enhances the effects of another substance in pets and other animals, such as a drug or a hormone.

Agonistic behavior

Any behavior in which animals compete or fight for resources such as food, mates, or territory.

Agouti

A type of fur coloration in pets, characterized by alternating bands of light and dark hair.

Agouti-related protein (AgRP)

A hormone produced in the brain that regulates appetite and metabolism in pets and other animals.

Air sacs

Thin-walled structures in birds and reptiles that help them breathe, similar to lungs in mammals.

Albinism

A rare genetic condition in pets and other animals, in which there is a lack of melanin pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes.

Albuminuria

The presence of protein called albumin in the urine of pets and other animals, which can be a sign of kidney disease or other medical conditions.

Alimentary canal

The digestive tract in pets and other animals, which includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, and anus.

All-in-one vaccine

A vaccine that provides protection against multiple diseases in pets.

Allergen

A substance in pets and other animals that triggers an allergic reaction, such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods.

Allergen-specific immunotherapy

A form of allergy treatment for pets, in which small amounts of specific allergens are administered to the pet over time to desensitize their immune system and reduce allergic reactions.

Allergies

A common condition in pets caused by an immune response to substances such as pollen, food, or flea bites.

Allergy shots

A form of immunotherapy for pets with allergies, which involves regular injections of small amounts of allergens to desensitize the immune system.

Alloantibody

An antibody in pets and other animals that is produced in response to foreign antigens from a genetically different individual or species.

Allodynia

A condition in which a pet experiences pain or discomfort from a stimulus that is not normally painful, such as gentle touch or pressure.

Allograft

A tissue or organ transplant between individuals of the same species, which can be used in pets to treat injuries or medical conditions.

Alopecia

Hair loss in pets, which can be caused by medical conditions, stress, or skin infections.

Alopecia areata

An autoimmune disorder that can cause hair loss in pets and other animals, often in circular patches on the skin.

Alpha dog

A term used to describe the dominant or leader dog in a pack or household of pets.

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)

A protein in pets and other animals that is produced by the liver and the fetal yolk sac during pregnancy, and can be used as a marker for various medical conditions such as liver cancer or neural tube defects.

Alveoli

The small air sacs in the lungs of pets and other animals, where gas exchange occurs between the air and the blood.

Amblyopia

A vision disorder in pets, also known as lazy eye, which can be caused by genetic factors or trauma.

Amenorrhea

The absence of menstrual periods in female pets and other animals, which can be caused by various factors such as pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, or reproductive disorders.

Amino acids

The building blocks of proteins, essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues in pets and other animals.

Ammonia

A toxic waste product produced by the breakdown of protein in pets and other animals, which is excreted by the liver and kidneys.

Amnion

The innermost membrane surrounding the developing fetus in pets and other animals, which contains amniotic fluid and helps protect and cushion the fetus.

Amoxicillin

An antibiotic medication commonly used to treat bacterial infections in pets, which is effective against a wide range of bacteria.

Amputation

The surgical removal of a limb or body part in pets and other animals, which can be necessary in cases of injury, infection, or cancer.

Amylase

An enzyme produced by the pancreas and salivary glands in pets and other animals, which helps digest starches and sugars in the diet.

Amyloidosis

A rare disease in pets that involves the buildup of abnormal proteins in organs such as the kidneys or liver.

Anabolic steroid

A synthetic hormone in pets and other animals, which mimics the effects of testosterone and can enhance muscle growth and performance, but also carries various health risks and can be abused.

Anabolic steroids

Synthetic hormones used to promote muscle growth and improve performance in pets and other animals, which can have serious side effects if abused or misused.

Anabolism

The metabolic process in pets and other animals that builds complex molecules from simpler ones, such as the synthesis of proteins from amino acids.

Anaemia

A condition in which a pet’s red blood cell count or hemoglobin levels are lower than normal, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms.

Anaerobic bacteria

Bacteria that can survive and multiply in the absence of oxygen, which can cause infections in pets such as dental abscesses and wound infections.

Anagen

The growth phase of the hair cycle in pets and other animals, during which new hair cells are produced and the hair shaft grows longer.

Anal glands

Small sacs located near the anus of dogs and cats that produce a foul-smelling liquid used for marking territory.

Anal sacs

Glands located on either side of a pet’s anus that secrete a pungent odor used for marking territory and communicating with other animals.

Analgesia

A state of pain relief in pets, often achieved through the use of medications or anesthesia.

Analgesic

A medication or therapy used to relieve pain in pets and other animals, which can be caused by various factors such as injury, inflammation, or medical conditions.

Analgesic cream

A topical cream or ointment used to relieve pain and inflammation in pets, such as arthritis cream or wound cream.

Analgesics

Pain-relieving medications used to manage pain in pets.

Anaphylaxis

A severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction in pets and other animals, which can cause difficulty breathing, swelling, and other symptoms.

Anaplasmosis

A tick-borne disease in pets, caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum.

Anatomical position

The standardized position in which a pet’s body is standing upright, facing forward, with arms at the sides and palms facing forward.

Androgen

A hormone that regulates male characteristics and reproductive function in pets and other animals, such as testosterone.

Anemia

A condition in pets where there is a deficiency of red blood cells, causing weakness, fatigue, and other symptoms.

Anemia of chronic disease

A type of anemia in pets and other animals, which is caused by chronic inflammation or other long-term medical conditions.

Anencephaly

A rare birth defect in pets, in which the brain and skull do not fully develop.

Anesthesia

The use of medication to induce temporary loss of consciousness and relieve pain during surgical procedures in pets.

Anesthesia machine

A device in veterinary medicine that delivers and monitors the administration of anesthetic agents to pets and other animals during medical procedures or surgeries.

Anesthesia monitoring

The use of specialized equipment and trained personnel to monitor a pet’s vital signs and ensure their safety during anesthesia.

Anesthesia recovery

The period of time after a pet undergoes anesthesia, during which they are monitored and supported until they fully recover from the effects of the drugs.

Anesthesia-free dentistry

A controversial practice that involves cleaning a pet’s teeth without the use of anesthesia.

Anesthetic gas

A type of anesthesia administered to pets through inhalation, which can induce unconsciousness and pain relief during surgical procedures.

Aneurysm

A bulging or weakened area in the wall of an artery or vein, which can rupture and cause bleeding or other complications in pets and other animals.

Angiogenesis

The process of forming new blood vessels, which can be important for tissue growth and repair in pets and other animals.

Angiogram

A diagnostic procedure in pets and other animals, which uses X-rays and contrast dye to visualize blood vessels and detect abnormalities.

Angular limb deformity

A congenital or acquired condition in pets and other animals, in which the bones of the limbs are misaligned or malformed, causing abnormal gait and reduced mobility.

Anhidrosis

A condition in pets and other animals, in which they are unable to sweat properly, causing overheating and other health problems.

Animal behaviorist

A professional who studies and analyzes animal behavior to provide solutions to behavioral issues in pets.

Animal welfare

The ethical treatment of animals, including their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

Animal-assisted therapy

A type of therapy in which pets and other animals are used to improve the physical, emotional, or social well-being of humans, such as in hospitals or nursing homes.

Anion gap

A measure of the balance of electrolytes in a pet’s blood, which can be used to diagnose metabolic acidosis and other medical conditions.

Anisocoria

A condition in which a pet’s pupils are different sizes, which can be caused by various medical conditions such as trauma or neurological disorders.

Anomalous coronary artery

A congenital heart defect in pets and other animals, in which the coronary artery develops abnormally, causing reduced blood flow to the heart muscle and other complications.

Anorexia

A loss of appetite in pets, which can be caused by medical conditions or stress.

Anovulation

The absence of ovulation in a female pet or other animal, which can be caused by various medical conditions or hormonal imbalances.

Anoxia

A condition in which the body’s tissues are deprived of oxygen, which can occur in pets due to respiratory problems or other medical conditions.

Antacid

A medication used to neutralize stomach acid and relieve heartburn and acid reflux in pets.

Antagonist

A substance or medication that blocks the effects of another substance in pets and other animals, such as a drug or a hormone.

Antemortem

Referring to events, observations, or tests that occur before the death of a pet or other animal, which can be important for diagnosis, treatment, or research purposes.

Anterior

Referring to the front of the body or an organ in pets and other animals.

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)

A major ligament in the knee joint of pets and other animals, which can be injured or torn by trauma or other factors.

Anterior uveitis

A type of eye inflammation in pets and other animals, which affects the front part of the eye and can cause pain, redness, and vision problems.

Anthelmintic

Medications used to treat parasitic worm infections in pets, such as heartworms, roundworms, and tapeworms.

Anthelmintics

Medications used to treat and prevent parasitic worm infestations in pets.

Anthocyanins

Plant pigments found in fruits and vegetables, which can have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in pets and other animals.

Anthropomorphism

The attribution of human emotions, characteristics, or behaviors to animals, often in a misguided way.

Anthrozoology

The study of the relationship between humans and animals.

Antibiotic resistance

The ability of bacteria or other microorganisms in pets and other animals to resist the effects of antibiotics or other antimicrobial drugs, which can make infections difficult or impossible to treat.

Antibiotics

Medications used to treat bacterial infections in pets.

Antibody

A protein produced by a pet’s immune system in response to a pathogen or vaccine, which can help neutralize and eliminate the pathogen.

Anticlotting medication

Medications used to prevent blood clotting in pets, which can be used to prevent strokes, heart attacks, and other medical conditions.

Anticoagulant

A medication or substance that inhibits blood clotting in pets and other animals, which can be used to treat or prevent thrombosis or embolism.

Antifreeze

A toxic liquid that is dangerous to pets if ingested, commonly used as a coolant in car engines.

Antifungal

Medications used to treat fungal infections in pets, which can affect the skin, nails, and internal organs.

Antigen

A substance in pets and other animals that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies or other defensive responses, such as bacteria, viruses, or toxins.

Antihistamine

A medication in pets and other animals, which blocks the effects of histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions, and can be used to relieve various symptoms such as itching, sneezing, or hives.

Antihistamines

Medications used to treat allergies and allergic reactions in pets, which can help relieve itching, swelling, and other symptoms.

Antimicrobial

A substance that kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Antimicrobial resistance

The ability of microorganisms to resist the effects of antimicrobial drugs, which can be a growing problem for pets and other animals as well as humans.

Antimicrobial stewardship

The practice of using antimicrobial drugs judiciously and appropriately in pets and other animals, to prevent resistance and preserve their effectiveness.

Antioxidant

A substance that can neutralize harmful free radicals and prevent oxidative damage to cells and tissues in pets and other animals, which can have various health benefits.

Antioxidant enzyme

Enzymes in pets and other animals that can neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage to cells and tissues, such as superoxide dismutase or catalase.

Antioxidant vitamins

Vitamins such as vitamin C and E that can help protect pets and other animals from cell damage caused by free radicals.

Antioxidants

Nutrients found in certain foods that help protect pets from cell damage caused by free radicals.

Antithrombotic therapy

Medications used to prevent the formation of blood clots in pets, which can be used to treat or prevent thrombosis, embolism, and other medical conditions.

Antitoxin

A medication used to neutralize the effects of toxins produced by bacteria or other pathogens in pets and other animals.

Antivenom

A medication used to counteract the effects of venom from snakes, spiders, and other poisonous animals.

Antiviral

Medications used to treat viral infections in pets and other animals, which can inhibit viral replication and reduce symptoms.

Antlers

Bony structures that grow on the heads of certain animals such as deer and elk, which are shed and regrown annually.

Anxiogenic

Describing substances or situations that cause anxiety or stress in pets, such as loud noises or unfamiliar environments.

Anxiolytics

Medications used to manage anxiety and stress in pets.

Aorta

The main artery in pets and other animals, which carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

Aorta stenosis

A medical condition in pets and other animals, in which the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart, is narrowed or obstructed, which can lead to various complications such as heart failure or stroke.

Aortic aneurysm

A bulging or swelling of the wall of the aorta, the largest artery in the body, which can be a life-threatening condition in pets if it ruptures.

Aortic regurgitation

A heart valve disorder in pets, in which blood flows back into the heart from the aorta, causing fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms.

Aortic stenosis

A congenital heart defect in pets, characterized by a narrowing of the aortic valve, which can cause heart failure if left untreated.

Aortic thromboembolism

A medical condition in pets and other animals, in which a blood clot forms in the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart, and can cause various symptoms such as paralysis or pain.

Apgar score

A standardized test used to evaluate the health and vitality of newborn pets, based on their heart rate, breathing, muscle tone, reflexes, and skin color.

Aphasia

A language disorder in pets and other animals, which can cause difficulty speaking, understanding, or using language, and can be caused by various factors such as brain injury or neurological disorders.

Aplastic anemia

A rare and serious medical condition in pets and other animals, in which the bone marrow fails to produce enough red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, causing fatigue, infections, and bleeding.

Apnea

A temporary cessation of breathing in pets and other animals, which can be caused by medical conditions such as heart failure or respiratory disease.

Apneustic breathing

A type of irregular breathing pattern in pets and other animals, characterized by prolonged inspiratory gasps followed by brief expirations, which can be a sign of neurological or respiratory problems.

Apocrine gland

A type of sweat gland in pets and other animals, which produces a thicker, odorless secretion that is used for scent marking and communication.

Apomorphine

A medication used to induce vomiting in pets, which can be used to treat poisoning or ingestion of toxic substances.

Apoptosis

A process of programmed cell death in pets and other animals, which is a normal part of development and tissue turnover, as well as a mechanism for removing damaged or abnormal cells.

Appendicular skeleton

The part of the skeleton in pets and other animals that includes the limbs, pelvis, and shoulder girdle.

Aquaponics

A system of growing plants and fish together in a symbiotic relationship, which can be used to create sustainable and efficient food production for pets and humans.

Aquarium

A glass or plastic container used to house aquatic animals and plants, such as fish, turtles, and amphibians.

Aquatic

Referring to animals and plants that live in water, such as fish, turtles, and aquatic plants.

Aqueous humor

The clear fluid that fills the front part of the eye in pets and other animals, which helps maintain eye shape and pressure.

Arachnids

A group of eight-legged invertebrate animals that includes spiders, scorpions, and mites.

Arachnoid mater

One of the three layers of the meninges, the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord in pets and other animals.

Arbovirus

A virus transmitted by insects such as mosquitoes and ticks, which can infect pets and cause diseases such as West Nile virus and Lyme disease.

Arched back

A posture in pets that indicates discomfort or pain, often seen in cats with urinary tract infections or back problems.

Arrhythmia

An abnormal heart rhythm or rate in pets, which can be caused by various medical conditions and can lead to heart failure, stroke, and other complications.

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy

A rare heart disease in pets and other animals, in which the heart muscle in the right ventricle is replaced by fat and fibrous tissue, causing abnormal heart rhythms and other complications.

Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis

A diagnostic test that measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in a pet’s blood, which can provide information about their respiratory function and acid-base balance.

Arteriosclerosis

A condition in which the arteries become stiff and narrow, reducing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the tissues, which can occur in pets as well as humans.

Arthritis

A common condition in older pets, characterized by inflammation and stiffness of the joints.

Arthrogryposis

A congenital condition in pets and other animals, characterized by joint contractures and reduced mobility, which can be caused by various factors such as genetic mutations or environmental factors.

Arthroplasty

A surgical procedure in pets and other animals, in which a damaged or diseased joint is replaced with an artificial joint, such as a hip replacement or knee replacement.

Arthropods

Invertebrate animals with jointed legs, including insects, spiders, and ticks, which can be pests on pets and transmit diseases.

Arthroscopy

A minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat joint disorders in pets and other animals, using a small camera and instruments inserted through tiny incisions.

Artificial heart valve

A medical device used to replace a defective or damaged heart valve in pets and other animals, which can improve heart function and quality of life.

Artificial insemination

A reproductive technique used to breed animals, involving the transfer of semen into the female reproductive tract.

Artificial sweeteners

Chemicals used to sweeten pet foods and treats, which can be toxic to pets in large amounts.

Artificial tears

A lubricating eye drop used to relieve dryness and irritation in pets with dry eye syndrome or other eye conditions.

Ascarid

A type of parasitic roundworm that can infect pets and other animals, causing digestive problems and other symptoms.

Ascarids

Parasitic roundworms that can infect pets’ intestines, causing diarrhea, vomiting, and other symptoms.

Ascites

A medical condition in pets and other animals, characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, which can be caused by various factors such as liver disease, heart failure, or cancer.

Aseptic technique

A method of preventing infection during medical procedures, involving the use of sterile equipment and procedures.

Aspergillosis

A fungal infection that can affect the respiratory system of pets, especially birds and reptiles.

Aspiration

The inhalation of foreign material into the lungs in pets and other animals, which can cause various respiratory problems such as pneumonia or bronchitis.

Aspiration pneumonia

A type of lung infection in pets and other animals, which occurs when foreign material such as vomit, saliva, or food is inhaled into the lungs.

Asthma

A respiratory disorder in pets and other animals, characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which can cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

Asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA)

A naturally occurring substance in pets and other animals, which can be a biomarker for kidney disease and other medical conditions.

Asymptomatic

Describing a pet or other animal that carries a disease or infection without showing any symptoms or signs of illness.

Ataxia

A neurological disorder in pets characterized by a lack of coordination and balance, which can be caused by various medical conditions such as brain tumors or infections.

Ataxic breathing

Irregular, uncoordinated breathing patterns in pets and other animals, which can be a sign of neurological or respiratory disorders.

Atherosclerosis

A disease in which plaque builds up inside the arteries, causing them to narrow and restrict blood flow, which can occur in pets as well as humans.

Atony

A lack of muscle tone or strength in pets and other animals, which can be caused by various medical conditions or nerve damage.

Atopic dermatitis

A chronic skin condition in pets, also known as eczema, which is caused by an allergic reaction to environmental allergens such as pollen or dust mites.

Atopy

A type of allergy in pets caused by environmental allergens such as pollen or dust.

Atresia

A condition in which a body opening or passage is closed or absent in pets and other animals, such as ear canal atresia or intestinal atresia.

Atrial fibrillation

A type of cardiac arrhythmia in pets and other animals, in which the heart’s atria beat irregularly and rapidly, which can cause various symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

Atrioventricular (AV) node

A specialized tissue in the heart that helps regulate the heart’s rhythm and conduct electrical impulses between the atria and ventricles.

Atrium

A chamber of the heart that receives blood from either the body (right atrium) or the lungs (left atrium).

Atypical

Referring to a medical condition or presentation in pets and other animals that deviates from the normal or expected pattern, which can be challenging to diagnose or treat.

Atypical cells

Abnormal cells found in a pet’s body, which can be a sign of cancer or other medical conditions.

Atypical hyperadrenocorticism

A rare form of Cushing’s disease in pets, which is caused by excess cortisol production by the adrenal glands, and can have different symptoms and treatment than the typical form.

Atypical lymphocytes

Abnormal white blood cells found in the blood or lymphoid tissues of pets and other animals, which can be a sign of viral infections or other medical conditions.

Audiogram

A diagnostic test in pets and other animals, which measures hearing ability and detects hearing loss or other abnormalities.

Audiometry

A diagnostic test that measures a pet’s hearing sensitivity and ability to detect different sounds, which can be used to diagnose hearing loss and other ear disorders.

Aural hematoma

A swelling of the ear flap in pets, caused by the accumulation of blood under the skin.

Aural polyps

Fleshy growths that can develop in a pet’s ear canal or middle ear, causing discomfort, hearing loss, and other symptoms.

Auricle

The external part of the ear in pets and other animals, also known as the pinna, which helps collect sound waves and direct them into the ear canal.

Auriculotherapy

A complementary therapy in pets and other animals, which involves the stimulation of specific points on the ear to relieve pain, reduce stress, or treat various medical conditions.

Auscultation

The process of listening to a pet’s internal organs with a stethoscope to detect abnormalities.

Autoantibody

An antibody produced by a pet’s immune system that attacks its own cells and tissues, causing autoimmune diseases and other disorders.

Autochthonous

Referring to a disease or organism that originates and occurs naturally in a specific geographic area, rather than being introduced from outside.

Autograft

A surgical procedure in which a pet’s own tissue or organ is transplanted to another part of the body, to repair or replace damaged or diseased tissue.

Autoimmune disease

A condition in which the immune system attacks the body’s own cells and tissues, causing inflammation and damage, which can occur in pets as well as humans.

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia

A type of anemia in pets, in which the immune system attacks and destroys red blood cells, causing fatigue, jaundice, and other symptoms.

Autoimmunity

The process by which a pet’s immune system attacks its own cells and tissues, causing autoimmune diseases and other disorders.

Autonomic dysfunction

A medical condition in pets and other animals, in which the autonomic nervous system does not function properly, which can cause various symptoms such as abnormal heart rate, blood pressure, or digestion.

Autonomic nervous system

The part of the nervous system in pets and other animals that regulates involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and breathing.

Autonomy

The ability of a pet to make decisions and act independently, which is limited in domesticated animals.

Autopsy

A postmortem examination of a pet’s body, which can be used to diagnose medical conditions and understand the cause of death.

Avascular necrosis

A condition in which bone tissue in pets and other animals dies due to lack of blood supply, which can be caused by various factors such as trauma, infection, or medication side effects.

Avian

Relating to birds, including pet birds such as parrots, canaries, and finches.

Avian influenza

A viral infection in pets and other animals caused by strains of influenza viruses that primarily affect birds, which can also infect humans and other animals in some cases.

Avulsion

A tearing or separation of a body part or structure from its normal position, which can occur in pets and other animals due to trauma or other factors.

Axial skeleton

The part of the skeleton in pets and other animals that includes the skull, spine, ribs, and sternum.

Axial tomography (CT)

A medical imaging technique in pets and other animals, which uses X-rays and computer algorithms to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body.

Axillary

Relating to the armpit, where lymph nodes and blood vessels are located in pets and other animals.

Axillary lymph node

A lymph node located in the armpit area of pets and other animals, which can play a role in the immune response and cancer metastasis.

Axon

A long, slender extension of a nerve cell, which transmits electrical impulses from the cell body to other cells in pets and other animals.

Azoospermia

The absence of sperm in a pet’s semen, which can be caused by various medical conditions or reproductive disorders.

Azoospermic

Referring to a male pet or other animal that has a complete absence of sperm in the semen, which can be caused by various medical conditions or reproductive disorders.

Azotemia

A condition in pets characterized by high levels of nitrogenous waste products in the blood, which can be caused by kidney disease or other medical conditions.

Azygous vein

A large vein in pets and other animals, which drains blood from the lower body and empties into the superior vena cava.