Animal & Bird Medical Center of Palm Harbor
Medical Database

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Protein-Losing Gastroenteropathy

General Information
The main function of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is to absorb nutrients from food and eliminate the portions the body cannot use. Protein-losing gastroenteropathy is a complex disease of the stomach and/or intestine that prevents adequate absorption of proteins from the diet. The condition can result from disorders of the lymphatic system, long-term inflammation of the GI tract, certain cancers, and fungal infections of the GI tract.

An important sign of protein-losing gastroenteropathy is progressive weight loss, even when high-quality diets are fed. Diarrhea may also occur, but it is usually sporadic.

Important Points in Treatment
1. Various laboratory tests are necessary to diagnose and monitor the response to treatment of this disease.
2. Critically ill animals may require hospitalization for initial treatment.

An Important Update From Animal & Bird Medical Center On COVID-19

We are committed to offering a safe and healthy environment for our clients, pets and hospital team here at Animal and Bird Medical Center. The best way to avoid becoming ill is to avoid exposure to the virus. Taking typical preventive actions is key.

In being cautious and mindful of everyone’s safety, we are actively working to minimize your exposure to crowded exam rooms and long waits in the lobby.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have made some changes to our protocols in-hospital for the time-being…

In order to limit exposure while still providing quality care for your pet, we will be implementing special protocols to keep you safe.

We will have our veterinary technicians get a history of the patient’s symptoms and owner’s concerns via phone prior to coming into the clinic.

Our goal is for you to be able to bring your pet in for medical care but have no risk for you or our dedicated staff of transmitting the COVID-19 virus.

The Doctors and staff are dedicated to making sure your pet’s medical needs are taken care of during this national crisis.

We can still fill prescriptions for pick up, however, for those who prefer, non-narcotic and non-urgent prescriptions can be mailed to your home.

As always, careful hand-washing and other infection control practices can greatly reduce the chance of spreading any disease.