Pet Health Articles
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Avocado and soybean unsaponifiable (ASU) is a nutritional supplement derived from avocados and soybeans. It is used to help manage cartilage inflammation and support cartilage repair in dogs, cats, and horses with osteoarthritis. ASU may be part of a combination supplement.
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Azathioprine is an immune suppressing medication given by mouth or as an injection and is mainly used off label to treat immune-mediated diseases in dogs. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset and bone marrow suppression. This medication should not be used in pets that are allergic to azathioprine or are pregnant. It should be used with caution in pets with liver or kidney disease. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Azithromycin (brand name Zithromax® or Zmax®) is a broad spectrum antibiotic used for a variety of infections in dogs and cats. It is also used for certain infections in horses, cattle, rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds. Azithromycin is given by mouth or injection.
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Azodyl® is a probiotic supplement used to support kidney health in cats and dogs that have kidney disease. Azodyl® works by adding nitrogen-consuming bacteria to the intestines, which break down the increased waste products that result from the kidney’s impaired ability to eliminate them.
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Bacitracin topical is a topical antibiotic used to treat superficial skin infections in cats, dogs, and other animals. This medication is used off label in veterinary medicine. Bacitracin topical comes in ointment form.
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Bandages and splints protect an injured or wounded area of the body. It is important to closely monitor your cat's bandage or splint. This handout explains optimal bandage and splint care for your cat at home as well as possible complications that require veterinary attention.
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Basal cell tumors are a common type of skin tumor arising from cells in the deeper layers of the skin. They vary in size, from a few centimeters to inches in diameter. Most of these tumors are benign but removal may still be considered to prevent trauma or secondary infection. Surgical removal is curative in most cases.
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There are many non-pharmaceutical products designed to improve a pet's behavior. There is little oversight for many of these products, and the label “natural” does not guarantee a product is safe to use in dogs and cats. Ask your veterinarian before using any over-the-counter product for your pet.
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Many behaviors are normal but problematic for a particular person or household. Some behaviors are not normal and may be unsafe for the pet or for others. The first step is to ask your veterinarian to examine your pet for signs of physical illness. Then, a behavior consultation can be scheduled to assess the behavior and design a treatment strategy.
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Several drugs are now used to help treat pet behavior problems. To determine whether drug therapy should be considered, it is essential to determine the cause of the behavior. Many dogs and cats can also benefit from medication that helps them learn more efficiently. It is important to have a behavioral and physical health assessment before giving medication.