Presentation of the dog with acute abdominal pain is common in veterinary practice. The general causes of abdominal pain include: distension of a hollow viscus or organ capsule; ischaemia; traction; and inflammation secondary to a variety of conditions. This chapter considers an approach to the acute abdomen, an approach to the swollen abdomen and surgical management. Quick Reference Guides: FAST scan; Abdominocentesis; Diagnostic peritoneal lavage.

Alopecia is the complete absence of hair in an area where it is normally present. It is the most common reason for a dermatology consultation in the cat after pruritus. This chapter looks at history, clinical examination, diagnostic tests, differential diagnoses, treatment recommendations, when to refer and what to do if finances are limited. Quick reference guides: Wood’s lamp examination; Hair plucks; Skin biopsy.

Rabbits may require sedation or anaesthesia for a variety of reasons. Neutering of male and female rabbits is now commonplace in general practice, as is dental treatment. This chapter details specific considerations for rabbit anaesthesia, and also includes an overview of sedative, anaesthetic and analgesic drugs which may be used in this species. Quick Reference Guides/Techniques: Placing a marginal ear vein cannula; Placing an ET tube with the assistance of a rigid endoscope; Placing an ET tube under direct visualization; Intubating a rabbit’s trachea using the ‘blind’ technique; Performing nasotracheal intubation; Placing a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) in a rabbit; Performing Doppler blood pressure measurement in a rabbit.

Anorexia (loss of appetite for food) is a common presenting sign in feline practice. Cats are sensitive to environmental changes, and illness often manifest as a loss of appetite. This chapter discusses diagnostic approach and general considerations for management. Quick reference guides: Enteral assisted nutrition; Placement of a naso-oesophageal feeding tube; Placement of an oesophagostomy feeding tube.