Pet health glossary
Vet terms, explained simply.
Veterinary language can be confusing when you are already worried. Here are clear, plain-English definitions of the symptoms, vaccines, and conditions you are most likely to hear about for your dog or cat.
Reviewed by Dr. Ashim Sarkar
BVSc & AH · Licensed Veterinarian · Last reviewed 10 June 2026
- Anorexia
- A loss of appetite or refusal to eat. In pets it is a symptom rather than a disease, and persistent anorexia for more than 24 to 48 hours warrants veterinary attention.
- Ataxia
- An uncoordinated, wobbly, or drunken-looking gait caused by problems in the nervous system, inner ear, or spine. Sudden ataxia should be assessed promptly.
- Bloat (GDV)
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus, where the stomach fills with gas and twists. It is a life-threatening emergency, most common in large, deep-chested dogs, and needs immediate clinic care.
- Brachycephalic
- Flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persian cats. Their short airways make them prone to breathing difficulty, heat stress, and dental crowding.
- Castration / Neutering
- Surgical removal of the testicles in male animals to prevent reproduction and reduce certain behaviours and health risks.
- Deworming
- Treatment to remove intestinal parasites (worms). Puppies and kittens need frequent deworming, and adults are usually treated on a regular schedule.
- DHPPi
- A core combination vaccine for dogs protecting against Distemper, Hepatitis (adenovirus), Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza.
- Distemper
- A serious, contagious viral disease of dogs affecting the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems. It is prevented by routine vaccination.
- FVRCP
- A core combination vaccine for cats protecting against Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus), Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia.
- Gingivitis
- Inflammation of the gums, usually from plaque and tartar build-up. Left untreated it can progress to painful periodontal (dental) disease.
- Heatstroke
- A dangerous rise in body temperature when a pet cannot cool down, common in hot Indian summers and in flat-faced breeds. Signs include heavy panting, drooling, and collapse, and it is an emergency.
- Lethargy
- Unusual tiredness, low energy, or reduced responsiveness. It is a common, non-specific sign of illness that is worth checking if it persists.
- Microchip
- A tiny implant placed under the skin that stores a unique ID number, used for permanent identification and often required for pet travel.
- Otitis
- Inflammation of the ear, usually the outer ear canal (otitis externa). Signs include head shaking, scratching, odour, and discharge.
- Parvovirus
- A highly contagious virus causing severe, often bloody vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs, especially unvaccinated puppies. It is frequently fatal without prompt treatment.
- Pyometra
- A serious infection of the uterus in unspayed female dogs and cats. It is an emergency that usually requires urgent surgery.
- Rabies
- A fatal viral disease affecting the brain, transmissible to humans (zoonotic). Vaccination is legally important in India and essential for travel.
- Spaying
- Surgical removal of the ovaries and usually the uterus in female animals to prevent reproduction and lower the risk of pyometra and mammary tumours.
- Tachypnea
- An abnormally fast breathing rate. Combined with effort or open-mouth breathing in cats, it can signal a serious problem and should be checked urgently.
- Titre test (RNATT)
- A blood test that measures antibody levels, for example the rabies neutralising antibody titre test required for international pet travel to many countries.
- Vomiting vs Regurgitation
- Vomiting is an active process bringing up stomach contents; regurgitation is passive, bringing up undigested food from the oesophagus. The difference helps a vet localise the problem.
- Zoonotic
- A disease that can spread between animals and humans, such as rabies, ringworm, or certain intestinal parasites. Good hygiene reduces the risk.
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