Animal Science 2.4 — Recognizing Diseases and Disorders Through Visible Abnormalities

Abnormality

Any deviation from typical structure or function in an animal.

Body Condition

Reflects the animal's fat and muscle stores; important for assessing health.

Lameness

Altered gait caused by pain or mechanical dysfunction.

Kyphosis

Abnormal spinal curvature characterized by an arched back.

Ataxia

Uncoordinated movement often indicating neurologic issues.

Fracture

A break in bone continuity that disrupts its structure.

Joint Swelling

Indicates joint inflammation or injury limiting motion.

Angular Limb Deformities

Limb deviations due to abnormal growth or loading.

Muscle Atrophy

Wasting of muscle mass often caused by disuse or nerve damage.

Tachypnea

Increased respiratory rate often indicating distress or illness.

Non–Weight-Bearing

A condition where an animal does not bear weight on a limb.

Systemic Signs

General symptoms indicating a body-wide issue rather than a localized problem.

Guarding

Behavior where an animal protects a painful area, often by avoiding movement.

Distended Abdomen

Enlarged abdomen which can indicate internal dysfunction.

Reluctance to Move

Behavior suggesting pain or discomfort often associated with skeletal issues.

Elbow Abduction

Elbows held away from the body, often indicating respiratory distress or discomfort.

Fever

An elevated body temperature that can be indicative of infection.

Crepitus

A grating sensation felt when moving an area with suspected fracture.

Limb Symmetry

The even alignment and condition of limbs; loss of symmetry often indicates problems.

Wide-Based Stance

A posture suggesting compensation for balance or stability issues.

Pain Response

Observable reactions to touch or movement that indicate discomfort.

Behavioral Signs of Pain

Changes in behavior such as aggression or restlessness indicating discomfort.

Chronic Joint Degeneration

Wear and inflammation that progresses over time leading to pain.

Movement Restriction

Limited ability to move, often due to pain or structural abnormalities.

Acute Pain

Sudden onset of significant discomfort often associated with injuries.

Neurologic Dysfunction

Problems affecting nerve control and coordination within the body.

Bowed Legs

A deformity where legs curve outward, often due to developmental issues.