With cats and dogs now living to older ages, cancer has become a leading cause of non- accidental death. Most cases occur between ages 10 and 12, but cancer can strike younger pets, too.

Diabetes is a disease related to insulin, a hormone that helps the body use sugar, or glucose (GLOO-kohs), for fuel. Due to insulin problems, people and pets with diabetes can't properly convert food to energy.

Euthanasia is a method of humane killing sometimes used when animals have a terminal illness or severe injury and are not expected to recover, especially if the pet is in pain or its quality of life is seriously compromised.

Kidney disease can be divided into two broad categories: acute and chronic. Acute kidney disease strikes suddenly and may be the result of poisoning, trauma, cysts, or other factors.