Why it matters
What can't be seen
can still get sick.
Internal organs don't hurt until it's late. A dog with renal failure, a cat with hyperthyroidism or a pet with inflammatory bowel disease may seem "a bit tired" for months before the situation becomes urgent.
At Rovira Veterinary Clinic, in Gràcia, Barcelona, we approach internal medicine with full blood panels, ultrasound and a systematic differential diagnosis to get to the real cause.
Do you recognise any of these signs in your pet?
If the answer is yes, an internal medicine assessment may have the answer.
What we treat
Main areas of internal medicine
Very common
Digestive system
Chronic vomiting, persistent diarrhoea, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis, hepatopathies and other conditions of the digestive tract and accessory organs. The most frequent reason for an internal medicine consultation.
Hormonal system
Endocrine system
Diabetes mellitus, canine hypothyroidism, feline hyperthyroidism, hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's) and hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's). Conditions requiring long-term follow-up.
Airways
Respiratory system
Chronic cough, feline asthma, bronchitis, tracheitis, chronic rhinitis and other conditions affecting breathing. Reduced exercise tolerance or episodes of dyspnoea always warrant evaluation.
Renal & urinary function
Renal & urinary system
Chronic renal failure (very common in older cats), recurrent urinary infections, urolithiasis, feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) and other conditions of the excretory system.
How we work
A systematic diagnosis, not guesswork
Internal medicine doesn't work on intuition. It works with method: gather data, organise it, rule out causes and confirm with tests. It is a slower process than an emergency consultation, but far more precise.
At our Gràcia, Barcelona clinic we carry out most tests in the same visit — blood panel, ultrasound, urinalysis — so you don't have to wait any longer than necessary.
- 1 Detailed clinical history and systematic anamnesis
- 2 Full physical examination by body system
- 3 Complete blood panel and organ profile
- 4 Urinalysis and culture where indicated
- 5 Diagnostic imaging: ultrasound and X-ray
- 6 Differential diagnosis and confirmation
- 7 Individualised treatment plan and monitoring
- 8 Periodic follow-up and treatment adjustment
Frequently asked questions
What people ask us most about internal medicine
What is the difference between internal medicine and a general consultation?
Internal medicine deals with complex systemic conditions affecting internal organs and requiring a more thorough diagnostic approach. While a general consultation resolves specific problems, internal medicine investigates the underlying cause of symptoms that recur or do not improve with standard treatment.
When should I bring my pet to an internal medicine consultation?
When it shows persistent symptoms such as frequent vomiting, unexplained weight loss, increased water intake, chronic diarrhoea or changes in behaviour and energy. Also when a general vet wants to investigate the underlying cause of a condition more deeply.
Is there treatment for chronic renal failure?
There is no cure, but there is effective management that can significantly improve quality and length of life. Fluid therapy, an adapted diet, blood pressure control and regular blood test monitoring are fundamental pillars. The earlier it is detected, the better the response to treatment.
Is diabetes well controlled in dogs and cats?
Yes. With insulin therapy, dietary adjustments and home monitoring, the vast majority of diabetic animals lead normal lives. In cats, some cases even go into remission. Initial follow-up requires frequent visits to adjust the dose, but once the patient is stable, management is routine.
Does your pet have symptoms that won't resolve?
Book an appointment