Skip to main content

Pet Health Articles

Cats + Treatment

  • Famciclovir (Famvir®) is an antiviral medication used to control feline herpesvirus (FHV-1). It is given by mouth and side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and increased drinking and urination. Do not use it in pets that are allergic to it or penciclovir.

  • Bleeding is concerning if a lot of blood is lost. To minimize external blood loss and prevent shock, you can provide first aid for bleeding cats until you arrive at your veterinary hospital.

  • Cats limp when they have a hurt leg. Although most limps need veterinary attention, there are a few first-aid measures you can perform at home if your cat begins to hobble. If your cat is in severe pain, take them to your veterinary hospital or emergency hospital immediately.

  • A cat’s tail is an extension of its spine, so it is an important part of its anatomy. Tail injuries are common and can sometimes be managed with home first aid, but some cases require veterinary care. This article outlines some common canine tail injuries and how they should be treated.

  • A gastrostomy (G-) tube is a small rubber or silicone tube that passes directly into the stomach through the cat’s skin and abdominal wall. It allows you to deliver food, water, and medications directly into the stomach. This article outlines how to use and maintain a G-tube for your cat.

  • Giving pills to cats can be a challenge, even for the most experienced veterinarian. This handout provides a step-by-step guide to giving your cat a pill at home, along with some other options.

  • Heartworms are blood-borne parasites that reside in the heart or nearby large blood vessels of infected animals. Heartworm disease is much less common in cats than dogs, but more common than previously thought. This handout explains the disease and outlines signs, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

  • Heartworm disease is challenging to treat in cats because there is currently no approved medication that safely eliminates adult heartworms. Treatment often focuses on managing symptoms and reducing the risk of sudden death while the infection resolves naturally, a process that can take several years. Prevention is the best treatment in cats.

  • Your veterinarian may prescribe rectal medication if your pet is unable to swallow oral medications or if a specific required medication cannot be effectively absorbed with oral delivery. This handout outlines how to administer rectal medication effectively.

  • Learn how to safely and effectively bathe your cat using medicated shampoo prescribed by your veterinarian. This article explains why medicated shampoos are used and provides step-by-step instructions for applying and rinsing the shampoo properly.