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Sistema nervioso

Hydrocephalus

Excessive build-up of fluid within the brain, which increases pressure. Common as a congenital problem in toy-breed puppies.

Severe🐕 Dogs

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Dome-shaped or bulging head
  • • Slower growth, learning difficulties
  • • Abnormal behaviour, disorientation
  • • Circling, pressing the head against surfaces
  • • Seizures
  • • Eyes deviated down and out

Causes

Congenital (common in toy breeds: Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, English Bulldog) due to a developmental abnormality. It can also be acquired through tumours, infections or haemorrhages.

Diagnosis

Ultrasound through the fontanelle (in puppies whose skull is still open), MRI or CT scan.

Treatment

Mild cases: medication to reduce fluid production and inflammation. Severe cases: surgery to shunt the excess fluid away. The prognosis is variable.

Prevention

Do not breed from affected animals (the congenital form has a hereditary basis).

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if a toy-breed puppy has a bulging head, learns with great difficulty or shows strange behaviour.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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