Intervertebral Disc Disease (SAPCH)

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Filed Under: Neurology

Intervertebral Disc Disease:  Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is one of the most common spinal cord conditions in the dog.  Cats are less commonly affected.  The spine is composed of bones called vertebrae.  The vertebrae form a canel that surrounds the spinal cord. Between adjacent vertebrae there are discs (intervertebral discs) composed of a fibrous outer portion (annulus fibrosis) and a gel-like center (nucleus pulposus).  These discs act as cushions between vertebrae and provide strength and stability to the spine.  (More information in below attachment...)