Library
-
Struvite bladder stones are one of the most common bladder stones in cats. In some cats, struvite bladder stones form because of a urinary tract infection. Signs of bladder stones typically include frequent urination, straining to urinate, blood in the urine, and urinating outside of the litterbox. If your cat is having urinary issues, your veterinarian will first recommend a urinalysis. Blood tests, abdominal X-rays, and ultrasound may also be recommended. Medical dissolution and surgical removal are two categories of treatment. Cats who have developed struvite bladder stones are likely to experience a recurrence later in life, unless the conditions that led to the formation of stones can be corrected.
-
Stud tail, or tail gland hyperplasia, is a condition in which the oil glands near the base of the tail enlarge. This condition causes hair loss, excess accumulation of oils in the skin and on the fur, plugged hair follicles, and secondary infections. It is more prevalent in intact male cats, as these glands are under hormonal control, but any cat can be affected. Poor grooming can be the underlying issue in many cats. Other hormonal imbalances and skin disorders are less common causes. Prognosis is generally good, especially if the underlying cause can be identified and controlled.
-
Supplemental fluids can benefit cats with a variety of medical conditions. Your veterinarian can teach you to administer fluids subcutaneously (under the skin). Giving injections is outside the comfort zone for most outside the medical profession but is not nearly as difficult as it sounds.
-
Supplemental fluids can benefit cats with a variety of medical conditions. Your veterinarian can teach you to administer fluids subcutaneously (under the skin). Giving injections is outside the comfort zone for most outside the medical profession but is not nearly as difficult as it sounds.
-
Many pets initially resist having their claws trimmed. This is partly because their paws are sensitive and partly because they are uncomfortable being restrained for the procedure. By taking the time to do some gentle, systematic training and conditioning, you can teach your pet to relax and accept nail trims as part of their regular health maintenance program.
-
Many pets are sensitive to being restrained for grooming. With slow progress and positive rewards, your pet can learn to accept or even enjoy having their teeth cleaned.
-
Sucralfate is given by mouth and is used off-label to treat ulcers and erosions in the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include constipation. Do not use in pets that are allergic to this medication. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinarian.
-
Sulfadiazine/trimethoprim is given by mouth in the form of a liquid suspension or is given by injection in the hospital. It is commonly used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections, sometimes off label, in dogs, cats, small mammals and other exotics. Common side effects include a decreased appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea, although more serious side effects are possible, such as dry eye, or liver, blood, or urinary problems. Do not use in pets that have severe liver damage, blood cell problems, dehydration, or sulfa allergies. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
-
Sulfadimethoxine is an antimicrobial given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid suspension, used primarily to treat coccidiosis. Its use for treating small mammals and reptiles is off label. Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. This medication should not be used in pets that are allergic to it, pregnant, lactating, or have severe liver or kidney dysfunction. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
-
Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim is given by mouth in the form of a liquid suspension or is given by injection in the hospital, and it is commonly used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections, sometimes off label, in dogs, cats, small mammals, and other exotics. Common side effects include a decreased appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea, although more serious side effects are possible such as dry eye, or liver, blood, or urinary problems. Do not use in pets that have severe liver damage, blood cell problems, dehydration, or sulfa allergies. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.