Time is of the essence when working with a fading puppy or kitten. A systematic evaluation consisting of a history, physical examination of the litter and the dam, and specific diagnostic tests will help you narrow the list of possible causes quickly, so you can initiate treatment.

Timely treatment of ill neonates will provide the best chances of survival. Although time-consuming, intensive care of these puppies and kittens, which requires serial monitoring, can be extremely rewarding.

Chances are that you have been presented with puppies or kittens that have failed to thrive, some of which have eventually died.

My goal for this symposium is to provide resources and encouragement for practicing veterinarians to confidently examine, perform appropriate diagnostic testing in, and treat these tiny patients.