Disease Category

By Dr. Ryan Chuang What is IMHA? The immune system is designed to clear pathogens and abnormal cells. However, in cases of IMHA, the immune system mistakenly identifies its own red blood cells as "foreign" and begins to destroy them. IMT/IMTP: Sometimes the immune system attacks platelets instead, leading to low platelet counts (Immune-Mediated Thrombocytopenia). Evans Syndrome: When the body attacks both red blood cells and platelets simultaneously. Common Symptoms Severe we

By Dr. Ryan Chuang In recent years, I have noticed a growing prevalence of congenital cryptorchidism (undescended testicles) in dogs and cats. This trend is likely due to inbreeding or the continuous breeding of specific bloodlines, allowing abnormal genes to persist. Today, I want to explain why this condition is a "ticking time bomb" and how modern technology makes treatment much simpler. What is Cryptorchidism? During normal development, a male pet’s testicles should migra

By Dr. Ryan Chuang Today we are discussing a common and breed-specific issue for Schnauzers: Hypertriglyceridemia (Hyperlipidemia). Miniature Schnauzers are a beloved breed, yet they possess a hereditary trait that often goes unnoticed: a genetic deficiency in enzymes required to metabolize fats. This leads to varying degrees of elevated blood fats, a condition that is frequently overlooked by both owners and veterinarians. 1. What is Hyperlipidemia? Hyperlipidemia refers to

By Dr. Ryan Chuang In Hong Kong, "Tick Fever" is a common term for two distinct diseases transmitted by tick bites. Because both typically cause fever, they are grouped under one name, but they require different medical approaches. 1. Babesiosis (A Blood Parasite) What is Babesia? It is a protozoal parasite that attacks red blood cells. In Hong Kong, Babesia gibsoni is the most prevalent species, followed by Babesia canis. Transmission & Symptoms Transmission: Primarily via t

By Dr. Ryan Chuang Today, let’s talk about the most common heart disease in dogs: Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD). 1. What is Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD)? The mitral valve is a structural valve located within the left side of the heart. Its primary function is to act as a one-way valve, ensuring that blood flows in the correct direction when the heart contracts. When the mitral valve undergoes degeneration and proliferative changes, it causes valvular insuff

As a veterinarian, I often hear a common hesitation when suggesting surgery or treatment requiring anesthesia: "My pet is too old; I don’t want to risk anesthesia." The definition of "old" varies from person to person—some feel 7 years is elderly, while others say 10, or even 15. But when is a pet truly "senior," and is age a valid reason to avoid necessary care? How Old is "Old," and is Anesthesia Safe? Generally, pets enter their senior years at age 7, and by age 10, they a

Why dental Xray is so important

Does your dog have hair loss, gaining weight and sleep a lot? It might be due to low thyroid hormone

Another Feline diabetes remission case from us!!

By Dr. Ryan Chuang Today, we would like to share a rare but increasingly common congenital genetic disorder I have observed in my clinical practice, particularly among Ragdoll cats. This condition is known as Segmental Uterine Aplasia and Ipsilateral Renal Agenesis. The Case of Jojo Jojo is a two-year-old female Ragdoll who was adopted a year ago. Her owner was told she had already been spayed. However, the original surgeon noted that Jojo was born with only one side of the u

By Dr. Ryan Chuang If your senior cat suddenly develops a ravenous appetite yet continues to lose weight, it is likely not a "second youth." Instead, these are classic indicators of Hyperthyroidism, a common but serious endocrine disorder in senior felines. 1. What is Hyperthyroidism? Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland overproduces thyroid hormones, causing the body's metabolism to run abnormally fast. Cause: Most cases are caused by benign enlargement or tumors of

By Dr. Ryan Chuang Persistent itching in dogs is often caused by sensitivities (allergies) to either food or environmental triggers. If your dog’s skin symptoms persist year-round, regardless of the season, it is time to investigate food sensitivity. Because our pets cannot tell us where it hurts or why they are itchy, owners must look for specific clues to help diagnose the root cause. 1. Food Sensitivity vs. Atopic Dermatitis: What’s the Difference? Both food sensitivities

By Dr. Ryan Chuang Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) was once considered a "death sentence." While modern antiviral treatments have significantly improved survival rates, the treatment remains costly. Understanding the root cause is the only way to protect our feline companions. 1. What is Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)? FIP develops when the Feline Coronavirus (FCoV) undergoes a specific mutation within a cat's body. Highly Contagious: FCoV spreads through shared litt

Is Your Dog Licking Paws Just Out of Feeling Bored? It actually might be allergy

Understanding Cat Constipation: Causes, Symptoms, and Modern Treatments

By Dr. Ryan Chuang This is a surprising case when I first saw the patient. It's a 16-year-old Dachshund named "Cheong Cheong" (腸腸), weighing only 4kg, who came to us for a second opinion. A Sight to Behold When Cheong Cheong walked into the consultation room, I couldn't help but gasp. One of his testicles had grown into a massive tumor—roughly 30 to 50 times the normal size. Because of the extreme weight, the scrotal skin had stretched so much that it dragged on the ground, c

The Little Prince’s New View: Overcoming Severe Entropion

Chronic Vomiting in Cats—Is It Really Just "Hairballs"or eating too fast?

Does My Dog or Cat Need Their Anal Glands Squeezed

Are You Accidentally Hurting Your Pet? The Truth About How You Carry Your Pets