Treatment of Internal Conditions
When animals experience diseases and disorders of their internal systems, vet internal medicine can offer accurate diagnoses and effective treatment.
Our veterinarians bring extensive experience in diagnosing and treating challenging cases, from disorders of the brain and nervous system to gland issues and immune system disorders.
At Tumwater Veterinary Hospital, we have a range of diagnostic tools and treatment methods at our disposal.
We are able to manage patients with multiple disorders or diseases, and offer effective treatment alternatives for those who will not respond well to standard procedures.
Vet Internal Medicine Conditions
Has your vet discovered that your pet is displaying symptoms of an internal condition? If so, the veterinarian can conduct a comprehensive physical exam to diagnose your pet's issue and develop a detailed treatment plan tailored to their needs.
Our vets can diagnose and treat illnesses and conditions in these areas:
- Cardiology (heart-related disorders)
Similar to people, cats and dogs can suffer from heart disorders and diseases. In our in-house vet lab, we can leverage technology to examine your pet for signs of heart conditions so that you'll receive results quickly. Fast results mean we can start treatment sooner.
If your vet is unable to diagnose or treat your dog or cat's heart condition as part of our internal medicine checks, we can refer you to a board-certified internal medicine vet near Tumwater. We will then work with your specialist to ensure your pet receives the very best care.
- Immunology (immune system disorders)
In a healthy animal's immune system, abnormal cells and foreign invaders are detected, triggering defensive action to protect your pet's health. However, the immune system doesn't always work as it should. In this case, your veterinarian will diagnose your pet with an immune-mediated disorder.
Common immune-mediated disorders in cats and dogs include anemia, hypothyroidism, skin diseases, allergies, arthritis and irritable bowel syndrome.
- Pulmonary Disorders (diseases of the lungs)
Your pet's respiratory system performs an essential function — it delivers oxygen to the body and eliminates waste gases such as carbon dioxide. Dogs and cats do not sweat the way people do, so your pet's respiratory system plays a vital role in regulating body temperature.
Dogs can experience many common pulmonary disorders, including obstructive pulmonary disease, lung tumors, pneumonia and canine distemper virus.
In cats, common pulmonary disorders include asthma, parasitic worms, bronchitis, viruses and bacterial infections.
- Gastroenterology (digestive organs)
Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are a common internal medicine issue seen by our Tumwater veterinarians. GI conditions affect your pet's stomach and intestines, interfering with the animal's ability to digest food properly and absorb nutrients.
Pets suffering from GI problems often experience symptoms such as blood in stool, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, gas, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
- Oncology (tumors and cancer)
Cancer is a disease that can impact even the fittest humans and animals. When diagnosed in the earliest stages, in many cases cancers in dogs and cats can be treated with a combination of surgeries, therapies, and other methods.
Some of the most common cancers in dogs include mast cell tumors, melanoma, lymphoma, and bone cancer. In cats, some of the most common cancers include lymphoma, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), mammary cancer, and skin cancer.
If your pet requires diagnosis or cancer care beyond the scope of our skilled veterinarians, we will refer you to a veterinary oncology specialist near Tumwater.
- Urology (urinary functions, genitourinary tract)
Veterinary internal medicine also covers urology conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) in dogs and feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) in cats.
Your pet's urinary tract consists of their kidneys, the tubes that carry urine to the bladder, the bladder, and the urethra that conducts urine out of your animal's body. Urinary tract disorders can affect any part of this system.
- Endocrinology (glands and their functions)
Essential hormones are secreted into your pet's body thanks to the hard work of a number of glands. These glands and hormones are your pet's endocrine system. When your pet's endocrine system isn't working the way it should, symptoms can include skin problems and poor coat condition.
- Neurology (brain and nervous system disorders)
Neurology is a branch of veterinary internal medicine covering conditions of the brain and spinal cord as well as neuromuscular dysfunction. Some of the most common neurological disorders in dogs and cats include seizures, IVDD, and tumors.
If your animal requires diagnoses or care for neurologic conditions that are beyond the scope of our experienced veterinarians, we will be happy to refer you to an animal internal medicine specialist or veterinary neurologist near Tumwater. Our vets will work closely with your specialist to ensure that your pet receives the best treatment possible.
Specialist Referrals
If your veterinarian determines that your pet needs a procedure or expertise that we do not offer, we will refer you to an experienced veterinary internal medicine specialist near Tumwater.
We are connected to a network of exceptional veterinary specialists in Tumwater and throughout the area.
Laboratory & Diagnostics
Our comprehensive approach to dog and cat internal medicine is backed by advanced testing, imaging and other diagnostic procedures.
Our in-house veterinary lab is outfitted with the technology we need to diagnose your pet's internal medicine condition quickly and accurately, so we can begin treatment sooner.
