Glossary of Terms
Abdomen
The abdomen is that part of the body, lying between the chest and pelvis, containing the digestive organs (i.e. the belly)
Abscess
Localized accumulation of pus in a cavity; usually associated with infection. A common outcome of cat fights.
Acute
A rapid and often severe onset. (e.g. acute infection)
Addison's Disease
Is a rare, disorder in which the adrenal glands produce insufficient steroid hormones (corticosteroids). Lifelong treatment with steroid replacement therapy is required, with regular follow-up treatment and monitoring for other health problems.
Alimentary
Pertaining to food or the digestive tract (alimentary canal).
Allergen
An allergen is a substance that can cause an allergic reaction. In allergic animals, the immune system recognizes allergens as "foreign" or "dangerous" and responds accordingly. In non-allergic animals these substances cause no immune response.
Alopecia
Loss of hair from the head or body. Hair loss, or alopecia, can have a variety of causes, including parasites, hormone imbalance, food allergies and infection. In order to treat your pet’s skin problem, it is important to identify the cause.
Analgesia
The relief of pain. An analgesic is something designed to relieve pain.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis refers to a rapidly developing and serious allergic reaction that afects a number of different areas of the body at one time. Severe anaphylactic reactions can be fatal.
Anaemia
A lower than normal level of red blood cells (also referred to as erythrocytes) carrying oxygen to the body.
Anaesthesia
Anaesthesia is the total loss of feeling or sensation. It is induced with drugs to allow surgery or procedures to be performed without causing pain. Anaesthesia may be applied to the whole body, when it is known as general anaesthesia, or to part of the body, when it is known as local anaesthesia.
Anorexia
Loss of appetite, whatever the cause.
Antibiotics
A compound or substance that kills or slows down the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections.
Antibody
Also known as an immunoglobulin is a large Y-shaped protein to identify and neutralize foreign antigens like bacteria and viruses.
Antiemetic
A medication used to treat vomiting and nausea.
Antifungal
A medication used to treat fungal infections such as ringworm.
Antigen
A substance that triggers the production of an antibody. The immune system recognizes an antigen as a foreign and potentially harmful invader (e.g. bacteria and viruses).
Antipruritic
A medication to relieve itching.
Antipyretic
A medication to reduce a fever or high temperature.
Antitussive
A medication to relieve coughing. Veterinarians often prescribe antitussive medications to pets that suffer from conditions that cause severe or intense coughing, such as canine cough
Anus
Opening at the end of an animal’s digestive tract where faeces are expelled.
Arrhythmia
Disruption in the regularity of the heartbeat. They occur when the electrical impulses to the heart that co-ordinate heartbeats are not working properly, making the heart beat too fast/slow or inconsistently.
Articular
Pertaining to a joint.
Ascites
The build-up of additional fluid in the abdomen, otherwise called the peritoneal cavity.
Aspirate
To draw in or out using a sucking motion. Aspiration can also mean breathing in a foreign object (such as inhaling food into the airway).
Asymptomatic
If a patient is a carrier for a disease or infection but is not experiencing clinical signs.
Ataxia
A neurological sign that consists of a lack of motor coordination of muscle movements. It often manifests as wobbliness or unsteadiness in animals.
Atopy
Is a predisposition toward developing certain allergic reactions. Commonly used to describe atopic dermatitis, which results in skin irritation and inflammation.
Atrial Fibrillation
An irregular heart rhythm associated with disorganized electrical activity in the upper two chambers of the heart (atria). Its name comes from the fibrillating (i.e. quivering) of the heart muscles of the atria, instead of a coordinated contraction. The result of the rapid, irregular beats is ineffective filling of the ventricles, the bottom two chambers of the heart that pump blood out to the body.
Atrium
Most commonly refers to a chamber in which blood enters the heart, as opposed to the ventricle, where it is pushed out.
Atrophy
Atrophy is the progressive decrease in the size of an organ or tissue.
Attenuated
Weakened. Normally refers to an attenuated vaccine whereby the disease-causing abilities of the vaccine components are weakened or attenuated during the manufacturing process to make them safe upon administration.
Auscultate
Auscultation is a method used to listen to the sounds of the body during a physical examination, usually with a stethoscope.
Autoimmune
A medical condition characterized by an overactive immune system which attacks the body, mistaking normal tissues in the body for harmful substances.
Azotaemia
A medical condition characterized by abnormally high levels of nitrogen-containing compounds, such as urea and creatinine, commonly as a result of kidney malfunction or dehydration.
Bacterium
A bacterium is a unicellular microorganism which represents one of the most basic and primitive forms of life. Bacteria are everywhere. Some bacteria are capable of causing disease in animals.
Benign
Harmless.
Bilateral
Meaning two sides.
Bile
A green/yellow liquid formed in the liver. Bile plays a vital role in the digestion of fats.
Biopsy
The removal of a sample of tissue or cells from a living subject to determine the presence or extent of a disease.
Bitch
A female dog.
Bladder
A sac that receives and holds a liquid until it is excreted. Often refers to the urinary bladder.
Bloat
A medical condition in which the stomach becomes overstretched by excessive gas. Bloat is a very serious health risk for many deep-chested dogs.
Blood Glucose
The amount of glucose (sugar) present in the blood.
Bone Marrow
Bone marrow is a spongy, fatty tissue that houses stem cells, located inside a few large bones. These stem cells transform themselves into white and red blood cells and platelets.
Borborygmus
The rumbling noise caused by the movement of gas through the stomach and/or intestines.
Bradycardia
An abnormally slow heart rate.
Bronchi
The large airways within the lungs.
Bronchodilator
A substance that dilates the airways in the lungs.
BUN
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) measures the amount of urea nitrogen, a waste product of protein metabolism, in the blood. It can be used as an aid to measure kidney function.
Caecum
Part of the gastrointestinal tract between the small and large intestines. It is a small, coiled organ in dogs.
Calcified
The build-up of calcium salts in soft tissue, causing it to harden.
Calculus
A concretion of material, usually mineral salts, that forms in an organ of the body. Bladder or kidney stones are an example of calculus.
Cancer
A class of disease in which a group of cells display uncontrolled growth and invasion that intrudes upon and destroys adjacent tissues. Cancers sometimes spread to other locations in the body. This term is normally used to describe malignant tumours.
Candida
This fungus or yeast can normally be found in areas of the body such as the mouth, the genital and intestinal tracts. It can cause disease in animals.
Canine
Pertaining to dogs.
Carcinoma
A subtype of cancer that arises from epithelial cells. Epithelial cells form the lining of our internal organs, cavities, glands, and skin.
Cardiac
Pertaining to the heart.
Cardiomyopathy
Literally means "heart muscle disease".
Cardiopulmonary
A term relating to both the heart and lungs.
Cardiovascular
Refers to the circulatory system comprising the heart and blood vessels which carries nutrients and oxygen to the tissues of the body and removes carbon dioxide and other wastes.
Carpus
The animal equivalent of our wrist.
Castration
Removal of the testicles.
Cataract
White opacities in the lens of the eye. Cataracts are one of the most common problems affecting the eyes of the dog. There are many different forms and causes of cataract formation. Severe cataracts can cause blindness and may be an indicator of underlying diseases like diabetes.
Caudal
A term meaning toward the tail or the posterior end of the body.
Cerebellum
A region of the brain that plays an important role in motor control and co-ordination.
Cerebrum
A region of the brain that controls emotional, behavioural and learning functions.
Chemotherapy
Treatment of cancer with drugs. The drugs used are slightly more toxic to cancer cells than healthy cells, so the cancer is treated without causing permanent damage.
Chronic
A disease of slow onset and of long duration. (e.g. chronic osteoarthritis)
Cirrhosis
A chronic disease of the liver whereby healthy tissue is replaced by scar tissue.
Central Nervous System (CNS)
Consists of the brain and spinal cord.
Coagulation
The process by which the body forms a blood clot (thrombus) that prevents further blood loss from damaged tissues, blood vessels or organs.
Coagulopathy
A defect in the body's mechanism for making blood clots.
Coccidia
Coccidia are microscopic, single celled organisms that infect animal cells. They can cause watery or bloody diarrhoea in pets.
Colitis
Inflammation of the large intestine (colon).
Colon
The section of the large intestine extending from the caecum to the rectum.
Colostrum
Colostrum is an antibody-rich milk which is secreted by all female animals during the first few days of a newborn’s life.
Coma
A state of unconsciousness from which an animal cannot be awakened.
Complete Blood Count
A complete blood count (CBC), also known as full blood count (FBC) or blood panel, is a test that gives information about the cells in a patient's blood. It is used to evaluate overall health and detect a wide range of disorders, including anaemia and infection.
Computerized Tomography Scan (CT Scan)
Also called computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan, combines a series of X-ray views taken from many different angles to produce cross-sectional images of the bones and soft tissues inside your pet’s body.
Congenital
A condition that is present at birth.
Conjunctiva
The tissue lining the inner surface of the eyelids and covering the white of the eyes (sclera).
Conjunctivitis
Inflammation of the conjunctiva.
Constipation
A condition in which bowel movements occur less often than usual or consist of hard, dry stools that are painful or difficult to pass.
Coprophagia
The eating of faeces. Is considered normal behaviour in some species, such as rabbits. However, in other species coprophagy can be related to certain diseases or behavioural problems.
Core Vaccine
Vaccines which are strongly recommended, and sometimes even required. For example, parvovirus vaccine in dogs or panleucopenia in cats.
Cornea
The clear front part of the eye.
Corticosteroid
Any of the steroid hormones produced by the adrenal gland or their synthetic equivalents.
Cranial
Pertaining to the head or in the direction of the head.
Culture
The propagation of microorganisms in a growth media. Used to diagnose and guide treatment for infectious diseases.
Cushing’s Syndrome
A condition where abnormalities in either the pituitary gland or adrenal glands cause the release of too much natural cortisone (corticosteroid).
Cutaneous
Relating to, or affecting the skin.
Cyanosis
A bluish colour of the skin and the mucous membranes due to insufficient oxygen in the blood.
Cyst
A pathologic space in bone or soft tissue containing fluid or semi-solid material.
Cystitis
Inflammation of the urinary bladder.
Cytology
Refers to a branch of pathology that deals with making diagnoses of diseases based on the examination of cells.
Dehydration
The excessive loss of body water.
Dermal
Pertaining to the skin.
Dermatitis
Inflammation of the skin.
Diabetes Mellitus
A disease where the body is unable to absorb sugars (glucose). It is commonly treated with insulin.
Diagnostic Test
A test to determine the presence or cause of disease.
Diarrhoea
Excessive and frequent evacuation of watery faeces, usually indicating gastrointestinal distress or disorder.
Digestive System
The organs responsible for the transit and metabolism of food in the body. These organs include salivary glands, mouth, oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, liver, gall bladder, pancreas, colon, rectum, and anus.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy
A disorder in which the chambers of the heart are dilated (enlarged). The heart muscle is weakened and cannot pump effectively.
Disinfection
A cleaning process which destroys most microorganisms, but not highly resistant forms.
Distemper
An infectious viral disease occurring in dogs. Clinical signs include loss of appetite, a discharge from the eyes and nose, vomiting, fever, lethargy, partial paralysis and sometimes death.
Diuretic
A substance increases the production of urine.
Domestic Animal
An animal that is not wild and is kept as a pet or to produce food.
Dry Eye
Also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), is a condition that results from the inadequate production of tears.
Duodenum
The first part of the small intestine. The duodenum extends from the stomach to the jejunum (the second part of the small intestine).
Duration of Immunity
Length of time an animal is protected from a disease after vaccination. Vaccines for some diseases provide a long duration of immunity, others only provide immunity for up to a year.
Dysphagia
Difficulty in swallowing.
Dysplasia
A term used in pathology meaning abnormal development of tissues.
Dyspnoea
Difficult or laboured breathing; shortness of breath.
Dystocia
Difficult birth.
Dysuria
Painful or difficult urination.
Ear Canal
The narrow tube, between the ear and ear drum, through which sound enters the ear.
Ear Drum
The thin membrane that separates the middle ear from the external ear. Also called the tympanic membrane.
Ear Mites
Mites that live in the ears of animals. They can just barely be seen as a small white dot with the naked eye.
ECG
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart.
Echocardiogram
A test that uses sound waves to create a moving picture of the heart (i.e. an ultrasound of the heart).
Ectoparasite
A parasite, such as a flea, that lives on the exterior of an animal.
Ectopic
Meaning "out of place." (e.g. an ectopic pregnancy is one that has implanted outside the reproductive system)
Electrolyte
In medicine, certain mineral elements that are critically important to life, including sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, and phosphorous.
Elizabethan Collar
A medical device that is shaped just like a cone and is used to prevent the animal from biting, licking, and scratching at wounds and injuries while they heal.
Emaciation
A wasted condition of the body.
Emesis
Vomiting.
Encephalitis
Inflammation of the brain.
Encephalopathy
Disease, damage, or malfunction of the brain.
Endocrine
Pertaining to hormones and the glands that make them. These hormones regulate an animal's growth, physiology and sexual development.
Endoscope
A lighted medical instrument used to get examine organs such as the oesophagus, stomach or airways.
Endotracheal Tube
A breathing tube placed into the trachea. Commonly used during anaesthesia to facilitate delivery of oxygen and anaesthetic to the lungs.
Enteritis
Inflammation of the intestine, especially the small intestine
Envenomation
The act of injecting a poisonous material (venom) by sting, spine or bite.
Enzyme
Enzymes are proteins that increase the rate of chemical reaction. Almost all processes in a cell need enzymes to occur at significant rates.
Epidermis
The outer layer of the skin.
Epistaxis
Technical name for bleeding from the nose.
Erythema
Redness of the skin resulting from dilation of blood vessels caused by irritation or injury to the tissue.
Erythrocyte
A red blood cell.
Faeces
Bodily waste matter derived from ingested food that is discharged through the anus; also called stool.
Feline
Of or relating to cats.
Foetus
An unborn animal in the later stages of development showing recognisable features of the mature animal.
Fine Needle Aspirate
A diagnostic procedure sometimes used to investigate superficial (just under the skin) lumps or masses. In this technique, a thin, hollow needle is inserted into the mass to extract cells that, after being stained, will be examined under a microscope.
FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus)
A virus that specifically infects cats (not people). It is transmitted by cats biting one another, especially during fights. FIV is the cause of Feline AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) – a progressive deficiency of the immune system that can limit the ability of cats to fight off other infections.
Flatulence
Generating excessive gas in the gastrointestinal tract
FLUTD (Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease)
Describes a collection of conditions that can affect the urinary tract (bladder and/or urethra) of cats. Common clinical signs include straining to urinate and blood in the urine.
Follicle
A small cavity or deep narrow-mouthed depression (e.g. hair follicle)
Foreign Body
Any abnormal substance within the body. Commonly used to describe foreign material under the skin (eg splinters, glass) or in the gastrointestinal tract (e.g. toys, balls, bones).
Fracture
Breaking of hard tissue such as bone. May be caused by trauma or bone disease.
Gait
The manner of walking or moving. Assessed to determine the cause of lameness in animals.
Gastric
Relating to or involving the stomach.
Gastritis
Inflammation of the lining of the stomach.
Gastrointestinal
Relating to the stomach and intestines.
Gestation
The carrying of an embryo or foetus
Gingival
Pertaining to the gums.
Gingivitis
Inflammation of the gums.
Glaucoma
A disease of the eye caused by increased pressure within the eyeball. Glaucoma can lead to damage of the optic disk and gradual loss of vision.
Glucosuria
The excretion of glucose in the urine. Normally, urine does not contain glucose as the kidneys are able to reclaim glucose back into the bloodstream.
Granuloma
A mass or nodule of chronically inflamed tissue.
Haemangiosarcoma
A malignant tumour of the blood vessels, usually occurring in the skin, liver or spleen.
Haematocrit
The volume of red blood cells in a sample of blood after it has been centrifuged (spun at high speeds). The PCV (Packed Cell Volume), or haematocrit, is expressed as a percentage. For example, normal for dogs is 40-59% and for cats is 29-50%.
Haematology
The study of blood and diseases of the blood.
Haematoma
A localised swelling filled with blood outside the blood vessels. Usually occurs due to haemorrhage.
Haematuria
The presence of blood in the urine; often a clinical sign of urinary tract disease.
Haemorrhage
Bleeding.
Heartworm
Also known as Dirofilaria immitis, is a parasite that is spread from host to host via the bites of mosquitoes. The natural host is the dog but it can also infect cats and ferrets too. The worms mature in the heart and may cause a physical blockage as well as thickening of the heart and associated blood vessels.
Hepatic
Relating to, affecting, or associated with the liver.
Hepatitis
Inflammation of the liver.
Hepatomegaly
Abnormal enlargement of the liver.
Hernia
Protrusion of an organ through a wall of the cavity in which it is normally enclosed.
Hormone
A chemical released by a cell or a gland in one part of the body that sends out messages that affect cells in other parts of the animal.
Host
A living animal on or in which a parasite lives.
Hybrid
The progeny of two animals of different races, breeds, varieties or species.
Hydrocephalus
An abnormal increase in the amount of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the cranial cavity. This may cause increased pressure inside the skull and progressive enlargement of the head, brain damage and even death.
Hyper
A prefix meaning more than normal.
Hyperglycaemia
High levels of glucose in the blood.
Hyperplasia
An abnormal increase in the number of cells in a tissue or organ.
Hypersensitivity
An allergic condition in which the body overreacts to certain substances, such as a bee sting or medication.
Hypertension
High blood pressure.
Hyperthermia
Elevated body temperature.
Hyperthyroidism
Increased production of thyroid hormones caused by an overactive thyroid gland. This condition is more commonly seen in cats.
Hypertrophy
An enlargement of an organ or a tissue as a result of an increase in the size of cells (rather than the number as in hyperplasia).
Hyperventilate
To breathe excessively hard and fast causing blood gas disorders.
Hypo
A prefix meaning less than normal.
Hypoglycaemia
Low levels of glucose in the blood.
Hypoplasia
Incomplete formation of a structure or organ in the body.
Hypotension
Low blood pressure.
Hypothermia
An abnormally low body temperature.
Hypothyroidism
Decreased production of thyroid hormones caused by an underactive thyroid gland. This condition is more commonly seen in dogs.
Hypoxia
Deficiency in the amount of oxygen delivered to the body tissues.
Icterus
Also known as jaundice. It is a yellow discolouration of the skin, mucous membranes or whites of the eyes due to excessive levels of bilirubin in the blood.
IDDM
Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus is a form of diabetes in which patients have little or no ability to produce insulin and are therefore entirely dependent on insulin injections.
Idiopathic
Disease arising from an unknown cause.
Ileus
Lack motility of the gastrointestinal tract.
Immune System
The system that protects the body from foreign substances, cells, and infections.
Immune-Mediated
Describes conditions which result from abnormal activity of the body's immune system. For example, immune mediated haemolytic anaemia (IMHA), is a disease in which the body's immune system destroys the body's own red blood cells.
Immunity
A condition in which the animal's immune system has been primed and is able to protect the body from a disease-causing agent such as a virus or bacteria.
Immunisation
The creation of immunity usually against a particular disease. Vaccination is a way to produce immunisation. However, a vaccinated animal is not always immune. If the body did not respond appropriately to the vaccine or if the vaccine was not administered correctly, immunity may not be stimulated.
Immunodeficiency
Immunological disorder in which the body's immune system is inadequate and resistance to infectious diseases is reduced. Can be caused by viral infections such as feline immunodeficiency virus in cats.
Immunosuppressive
Pertaining to a substance that suppresses the immune system.
Inactivated Vaccine
Vaccines which are made by taking the real, disease-causing viruses (or bacteria), killing them, and putting them into a liquid base. Also called a killed vaccine.
Incontinence
Loss of control over urination or defaecation.
Incubation Period
The period between infection and the appearance of clinical signs of the disease.
Infection
Pathological state resulting from the invasion of the body by microorganisms, such as bacteria or viruses.
Infestation
Refers to the state of being invaded or overrun by parasites.
Inflammation
A local response to injury that is characterised by redness, heat, pain, swelling, and often loss of function.
Inherited
Tending to occur among members of a family. Genetically transmitted features.
Innate
Inborn. A permanent characteristic present since birth.
Insulin
A hormone secreted by the pancreas to regulate glucose in the body.
Insulin Resistance
A condition where insulin becomes less effective at lowering blood sugars.
Intermediate Host
A host (animal, insect, snail etc) that harbours a parasite only for a short transition period, during which (usually) some developmental stage is completed.
Intestine
The portion of the gastrointestinal tract extending from the stomach to the anus. It is usually divided into two segments, the small intestine and the large intestine.
Intracellular
Inside the cell.
Intracranial
Inside the cranial cavity or head.
Intramuscular
Into the muscle. Generally relates to the site an injection is given.
Intranasal
Into the nose. This is an effective way of vaccinating dogs against canine cough.
Intravenous
Into the vein. Generally relates to the site of injection of drugs or fluids.
Intussusception
Serious disorder in which part of the intestine slides, or telescopes, into another part of the intestine. This often blocks the intestine, preventing food or fluid from passing through.
Iris
The coloured portion of the eye is called the iris. In the centre of the iris is the black opening called the pupil.
Jaundice
Also called icterus, meaning that a yellow pigment is found in the blood and in the tissues. It is most easily seen in the gums and the whites of eyes. It can be caused by destruction of red blood cells, liver disease and obstruction of the bile duct.
Jejunum
The second part of the small intestine. The jejunum extends from the duodenum (first part of the small intestine) to the ileum (the final part of the small intestine).
Jugular
Pertaining to the neck. The jugular veins carry deoxygenated blood from the head back to the heart.
Keratitis
Keratitis is inflammation of the cornea (the clear part of the eye). The cornea becomes cloudy, resulting in loss of transparency. All types of keratitis must be treated by a veterinarian.
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
Also known as dry eye, is a condition that results from the inadequate production of tears.
Ketoacidosis
A life-threatening condition associated with uncontrolled diabetes.
Killed Vaccine
Also known as inactivated vaccines. Vaccines which are made by taking the real, disease-causing viruses (or bacteria), killing them, and putting them into a liquid base.
Lactation
The secretion of milk from the mammary gland and the period of time that a mother lactates to feed her young.
Large Intestine
The portion of the intestine that connects the small intestine to the anus. The large intestine is made up of the caecum, colon and rectum.
Larva (plural larvae)
A distinct juvenile form many animals (such as insects or parasites) undergo before metamorphosis into adults.
Larynx
Also known as the voicebox, it is located at the entrance to the trachea (or windpipe). The larynx acts to control the flow of air to the trachea and food and water to the oesophagus.
Latent
A dormant stage of disease occurring between exposure to a disease-causing agent and the onset of the disease.
Liver
A large organ in the front of the abdomen that is responsible for the detoxification of blood, the production of certain digestive enzymes and bile.
Lymph Nodes
Are small glands composed of white blood cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes play a critical role in the immune system by destroying infectious agents (such as viruses and bacteria) and producing antibodies.
Malabsorption Syndrome
Defined as an animal’s inability to absorb the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients it needs from food.
Malignant
Refers to becoming worse and even resulting in death. Malignant tumours are cancerous growths which expand quickly and can metastasize, or spread to other areas of the body.
Malnutrition
A condition that results from taking an unbalanced diet in which certain nutrients are lacking, in excess, or in the wrong proportions.
Mammary
Pertaining to the mammary gland or breast tissue.
Mandible
The lower jaw.
Mange
Any of several skin diseases of mammals caused by parasitic mites that burrow into the skin or hair follicles. It is characterised by skin lesions, itching and loss of hair.
Mast Cell Tumour
Mast cell tumours are cancerous proliferations of mast cells that can spread throughout the body. These tumours are the most frequently recognised malignant or potentially malignant tumours of dogs. They may develop anywhere on the body surface as well as in internal organs. Mast cell tumours have varying appearances ranging from a wart-like nodule to an ulcerated mass to a small lump.
Masticate
Mastication or chewing is the process by which food is crushed and ground by teeth.
Mastitis
Refers to swelling, inflammation, and infection of the mammary glands.
Maternal Antibody
Antibodies acquired by a newborn animal via the placenta or colostrum (antibody-rich milk) of the mother.
Megacolon
A functional disorder that is defined as dilation of the colon or large intestine. This leads to infrequent and difficult passage of faeces and constipation.
Melaena
Darkening of the faeces by digested blood pigments. Typically the faeces look black in colour.
Metacarpus
The long bones in the front foot connecting the toes to the bones of the wrist (carpus).
Metastasis
The spread of disease from one area of the body to another. Normally used in the context of a cancerous tumour spreading via the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Metatarsus
The long bones in the back foot connecting the toes to the bones of the ankle (tarsus).
Microfilaria
The larval form of some parasitic worms. For example heartworm microfilariae circulate in the bloodstream of infected dogs.
Microorganism
A microscopic, single-celled organism. Microorganisms include bacteria, fungi and viruses.
Modified Live Vaccine
A vaccine that utilises a live, attenuated (weakened) bacteria or virus to elicit an immune response.
Mucolytic
Medications capable of breaking down or reducing the viscosity of mucus.
Mucosa
Thin layer of tissue lining cavities that are exposed to the external environment and internal environment (such as the mouth, urinary bladder, eyelids). Also known as mucous membranes.
Mucous Membranes
Thin layer of tissue lining cavities that are exposed to the external environment and internal environment (such as the mouth, urinary bladder, eyelids). Also known as mucosa.
Musculoskeletal
Pertaining to the muscles and skeleton (bones).
Myasthenia Gravis
Is a neuromuscular disease in which severe muscle weakness is the primary sign. It is caused by an inability of certain nerve receptors to function properly.
Mydriasis
Large or dilated pupil size.
Myelogram
Radiograph (x-ray) of the spinal cord taken after a radio-opaque dye has been injected into the space around the spinal cord.
Myocardium
Muscle of the heart.
Nebulise
To convert a liquid into a spray for inhalational treatments.
Necropsy
Also known as an autopsy or post-mortem examination. It refers to the examination of an animal after death.
Necrosis
Is the premature death of cells and living biological tissue.
Nematodes
Also known as roundworms.
Neoplasia
A class of disease in which a group of cells display uncontrolled growth, invasion that intrudes upon and destroys adjacent tissues, and sometimes spreads to other locations in the body. Can be used to describe malignant or benign tumours.
Neuropathy
A condition involving a dysfunction of the nerves.
Neuter
Also known as desexing. It involves the surgical removal of the testes in males or the ovaries and uterus in females.
Nodule
Nodules are solid lumps or bumps found on an animal's skin.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Medications with anti-inflammatory, analgaesic (pain reducing) and anti-pyretic (fever-reducing) effects. Non-steroidal distinguishes NSAIDs from other drugs which contain steroids, which are also anti-inflammatory.
Non-core Vaccine
Vaccines that should be administered to animals assessed to be at risk of that disease. For example leptospirosis and canine cough in dogs or feline leukaemia and FIV in cats.
Non-pathogenic
Not capable of causing disease.
Nutraceutical
A term combining the words “nutrition” and “pharmaceutical”. It is used to describe a food or part of a food that allegedly provides medicinal or health benefits.
Nutrient
Any substance which has nutritious qualities.
Nystagmus
A term describe involuntary eye movement. Nystagmus can be horizontal, vertical or rotary.
Obsessive Compulsive
A behavioural condition in which a pet repeatedly performs an action out of context.
Occult
Refers to a structure or process that is hidden or detected indirectly.
Ocular
Pertaining to the eye.
Oedema
The medical term for fluid retention in the body, causing swelling to occur in the affected area.
Oesophagus
The part of the intestinal tract between the mouth and stomach.
Off Label
Refers to a drug prescribed to treat a condition for which it has not been approved. Off-label use of a drug must be determined by the attending veterinarian.
Opioid
A synthetic narcotic that resembles naturally occurring opium.
Osteomyelitis
Term to describe an infection of the bone or bone marrow.
Otic
Relating to the ear.
Ototoxic
Damaging to the structures of the ear.
Ovulate
The release of an egg from the ovary of the female
Oxytocin
A hormone that stimulates the uterus to contract during birth and the mammary glands to release milk.
Packed Cell Volume (PCV)
The volume of blood cells in a sample of blood after it has been centrifuged The PCV, or haematocrit, is expressed as a percentage. For example, normal for dogs is 40-59% and for cats is 29-50%.
Palatable
Acceptable to the taste; readily eaten.
Palpation
The act of feeling with the hand or fingers. A phase of the physical examination in which the sense of touch is used to gather information essential for diagnosis.
Pancreatitis
A term that describes inflammation of the pancreas. Clinical signs include vomiting, lethargy and a painful abdomen.
Pannus
Also known as chronic superficial keratitis, it is an inflammatory condition of the cornea in which blood vessels grow across the surface.
Papule
A small solid bump rising from the skin that is usually less than 1 centimetre in diameter.
Paralysis
Refers to loss of motor function due to impairment of muscles or nerves.
Parasiticide
A substance used to destroy parasites.
Parenterally
Refers to the administration of a drug into the body through some way other than the digestive tract, such as subcutaneous or intravenous injection.
Paresis
Refers to partial loss of motor function due to impairment of muscles or nerves.
Parturition
Term used to describe delivery of a baby or giving birth.
Passive Immunity
Is the transfer of antibodies from one individual to another. It can occur naturally, when maternal antibodies are transferred to the newborn animal in colostrum, and can also be transferred artificially, such as a plasma transfusion.
Pathogenic
Causing disease. Usually used to describe bacteria which are capable of causing disease.
Pathologist
Person who specialises in the diagnosis of diseases through the examination of animal tissue and body fluids.
PCV (Packed Cell Volume)
The volume of blood cells in a sample of blood after it has been centrifuged. The PCV, or haematocrit, is expressed as a percentage. For example, normal for dogs is 40-59% and for cats is 29-50%.
Perianal Fistula
A painful condition of the skin surrounding the anus, in which small tracts open up, bleed and get infected.
Perineal
The region of the body between the genitals and the anus.
Peritoneum
A thin membrane that lines the abdominal and pelvic cavities, and covers most abdominal organs.
Peritonitis
Inflammation of the peritoneum.
Phalanges
The bones that are in the toes.
Pheromone
Chemicals released by an animal enabling it to communicate with other members of its own species.
Photosensitivity
Refers to an increase in the reactivity of the skin to sunlight. It can cause reddening and blistering of the skin.
Pica
A pattern of eating non-food materials (such as dirt or rocks).
Placebo
A dummy medication or treatment.
Plaque
A biofilm that develops naturally on the teeth. It is formed by colonising bacteria trying to attach itself to the smooth surface of a tooth.
Platelets
Are found in the blood of animals and functions to promote blood clotting. Also known as thrombocytes.
Polyarthritis
The term means inflammation of more than one joint. Often used in the context of infectious or immune-mediated diseases.
Polydactyl
Having more than the normal number of toes.
Polydipsia
Excessive thirst and drinking.
Polyp
An abnormal growth of tissue projecting from a mucous membrane.
Polyphagia
Excessive appetite and eating.
Polyuria
Excessive production of urine.
Postoperative
After surgery or an operation.
Prepuce
The fold of skin that covers the penis.
Progesterone
A hormone produced by the ovaries which is responsible for the continuation of pregnancy and a myriad of other functions.
Prognosis
The forecasted outcome of a disease process or treatment.
Prolapsed Rectum
Describes a medical condition where part of the rectum protrudes through the anus.
Protozoans
Any of a large group of single-celled organisms that live in water or as parasites. Examples include Giardia and Coccidia species.
Pruritus
Itchiness.
Psittacine
Relating to, resembling, or characteristic of parrots.
Pulmonary
Pertaining to the lungs.
Pulmonary Arteries
The artery that carries blood with low levels of oxygen from the heart to the lungs.
Pulmonary Oedema
The accumulation of fluid in the lungs.
Pustule
A small lump in the skin filled with pus.
Pyoderma
A bacterial infection of the skin.
Pyometra
An accumulation of pus within the uterus.
Queen
A breeding female cat.
Radiology
A branch of veterinary science dealing with the medical use of X-rays to diagnose and treat disease.
Recumbency
Lying down.
Regurgitation
Expelling food from the oesophagus.
Renal
Pertaining to the kidneys.
Renal Insufficiency
Also called renal failure, is when the kidneys no longer function well enough to maintain a normal state of health.
Respiratory
Pertaining to respiration, the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Retina
Term referring to the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the inner eye.
Ringworm
Refers to a fungal skin infection.
Sebaceous Glands
Microscopic gland in the skin that secrete an oily/waxy substance.
Separation Anxiety
Is a behavioural condition where dogs, when left alone, exhibit distress and behavioural problems.
Sepsis
A toxic state caused by the absorption of pathogenic microorganisms and their products into the bloodstream or tissues.
Septicaemia
A toxic state caused by the absorption of pathogenic microorganisms and their products into the bloodstream.
Serology
Refers to blood tests that detect the presence of antibodies against an antigen or microorganism.
Serum
The clear yellowish fluid obtained upon separating whole blood into its solid and liquid components after it has been allowed to clot.
Shedding
A term used to describe the release of organisms (bacteria, protozoa, viruses) into the environment from an infected animal.
Skin Cytology
The microscopic examination of cells that have been collected from the skin.
Skin Scraping
A diagnostic test used in almost every skin condition. The skin is scraped and the material examined under a microscope.
Smooth Muscle
A special type of muscle responsible for the contractility of hollow organs, such as blood vessels, the gastrointestinal tract, the bladder, or the uterus.
Spay (ovariohysterectomy)
Term referring to the surgical removal of the reproductive organs (ovaries and uterus) of the female animal.
Sphincter
A ring of muscle which holds any kind of biological opening closed.
Spleen
A large abdominal organ with important roles in regard to red blood cells and the immune system.
Stasis
Refers to the state in which the normal flow of a body liquid stops, for example the flow of intestinal contents through the digestive tract.
Status Epilepticus
A very serious neurological condition in which the brain experiences a prolonged seizure, or a series of prolonged seizures without a full return to consciousness in between.
Stenosis
Also known as a stricture, is an abnormal narrowing in a blood vessel or other tubular or structure, such as the intestine.
Struvite
Also known as ammonium magnesium phosphate. Struvite can form stones in the urinary bladder.
Subcutaneous
Under the skin.
Subluxation
Refers to incomplete or partial dislocation of a joint.
Syncope
Is the sudden loss of consciousness, or fainting.
Synovial Joint
Is the most movable and widespread type of joint throughout the body. Examples include the knee, elbow and hip.
Systemic
Pertaining to or affecting the whole body rather than localised.
Tachycardia
Refers to a faster than normal resting heart rate.
Tachypnoea
Refers to a faster than normal resting respiratory, or breathing, rate.
Tarsus
The animal equivalent of an ankle. It is also known as the hock.
Tartar
A build-up of bacteria, saliva, and food on the teeth which becomes mineralised, forming a hard coating and eventually causing gum disease and possibly tooth loss.
Temporomandibular Joint
The joint where the lower jaw bone, or the mandible, meets the skull.
Thrombocytopaenia
The medical term that refers to a low or reduced platelet count.
Tissue
Is an organised group of cells, not necessarily identical, that together carry out a specific function.
Titre
Is a measure of concentration. Normally refers to the level of antibodies in blood to a particular antigen.
Topical
To be applied to external body surfaces such as the skin.
Toxaemia
A generic term for the presence of toxin in the blood.
Tracheobronchitis
Refers to inflammation of the trachea and bronchi.
Tumour
A tumour is an abnormal growth of body tissue. Tumours can be cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign).
Ulcer
A defect of the skin, cornea or mucous membrane caused by the loss of damaged tissue.
Ultrasound
A technique used to produce an image of a deep structure within the body by directing ultrasound waves at it and recording the reflections (echoes) from it.
Umbilicus
Also known as the belly button. The umbilicus is where the umbilical cord attaches to the foetus during pregnancy.
Urate
Is a salt derived from uric acid. Urate can form stones in the urinary bladder.
Urea
Is a compound which is essentially the waste produced when the body metabolises protein.
Urinary Incontinence
Is the loss of voluntary control of urination.
Urinary Obstruction
A term to describe one of many different conditions that disrupt normal urine flow from the body.
Urticaria
Also known as hives. Raised, itchy areas of skin that are usually a sign of an allergic reaction.
Uveitis
Refers to inflammation of the middle layer of the eye.
Vaccination
The administration of a vaccine to stimulate immunity to a disease.
Vaccine Failure
A vaccine failure is when an animal develops a disease in spite of being vaccinated against it. There is usually nothing wrong with the vaccine, but for some reason, the animal's immune system did not adequately respond to it.
Vasculitis
Inflammation of blood vessels.
Vasoconstriction
Vasoconstriction is the narrowing (constriction) of blood vessels by muscles in their walls.
Vasodilation
Vasodilation is the widening (dilation) of blood vessels by the relaxation of the muscles in their walls.
Vena Cava
The cranial vena cava is the large vein which returns blood to the heart from the head, neck and both upper limbs. The caudal vena cava returns blood to the heart from the lower part of the body.
Ventricle
The large, muscular chambers of the heart that pump blood to the body or lungs.
Vestibular System
Is the system comprised of the inner ear, nerves and brain, that provides a sense of balance.
Virus
A small infectious agent that is unable to replicate outside a living animal cell.
Volvulus
Abnormal twisting of the intestines or stomach. This can be a life threatening condition due to the loss of blood supply and accumulation of toxic gases and fluids in the portion of the obstructed bowel segment.
Whelping
The act of a dog giving birth.
White Blood Cells
Are cells of the immune system involved in defending the body against both infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, and fungi) and foreign materials.
Window of Susceptibility
A time period in the life of a young animal in which the maternal antibodies are too low to provide protection against a certain disease, but too high to allow a vaccine to work and produce immunity.
X-ray
High-energy electromagnetic radiation used to take radiographs.
Zoonotic
A term used to describe any disease or infection that is naturally transmissible from animals to humans.