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Pet Health Articles

Medications & Supplements + English

  • Colostrum is the antibody-rich fluid produced by the mother's mammary glands in the first few days after birth. Colostrum is used as a supplement in all ages and species of animals to support the immune system. It may also be used as a local anti-inflammatory in the intestinal tract when ingested or on the skin when applied topically.

  • Crofelemer (brand name Canlevia-CA1), is an antidiarrheal drug that is conditionally approved to treat chemotherapy-induced diarrhea in dogs. Due to conditional approval, crofelemer must be used as labeled. Crofelemer comes in delayed release tablet form.

  • Crotamiton is a topical medication used off label (extra label) to treat mites and relieve itchiness in birds. It is often used together with ivermectin. Crotamiton is applied topically to the skin and comes in a cream or lotion format.

  • Cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12 or cobalamin) is a vitamin supplement used to treat systemic deficiencies of vitamin B12 due to metabolic or genetic disorders. It has been used in the treatment of some forms of anemia, cobalt deficiency, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, chronic enteropathies, and other conditions.

  • Cyclopentolate ophthalmic is an eye drop used in veterinary medicine during eye examinations to dilate the pupil and allow for proper examination of the interior part of the eye. It is used in all species of animals. Cyclopentolate ophthalmic comes in a liquid drop format to be instilled directly to the eye (topically).

  • Cyclophosphamide is given by mouth or injection and is used off label in cats, dogs, horses and rabbits to treat various cancers, such as lymphoma, leukemia, carcinoma, and sarcoma.

  • Cyclosporine ophthalmic ointment is an immunosuppressant used in the treatment of eye diseases suspected to be immune-related, including keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) and other inflammatory conditions of the eye. Cyclosporine comes as an ophthalmic ointment but may sometimes be compounded into a higher concentration ophthalmic solution for pets not responding to the ointment. It is important to remember that it may take days to weeks to notice improvement. Do not stop giving the medication without asking your veterinarian. If signs of serious side effects or immune suppression occur, contact your veterinarian immediately.

  • Cyclosporine (Atopica®) is given by mouth and is used to treat immune-mediated diseases, such as atopic dermatitis (skin allergies), in cats and dogs, and other immune-mediated conditions.

  • Cyproheptadine is given by mouth and is used off label in cats, dogs, and horses to treat allergic skin conditions, certain toxicities, and to stimulate appetite. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include sleepiness, increased appetite, and dry mouth.

  • Cytarabine is a chemotherapy medication commonly used off label to treat blood cancers and brain inflammation. It is an injectable solution usually given in the vein by a veterinary professional. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset and low blood cell counts. This medication should not be used or used with caution in pets with liver or kidney disease, those that have an allergy to this medication, and pregnant/lactating pets. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.