Pet Health Articles
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These two conditions occur when calcium is deposited within the skin. They are usually of minor significance in young dogs and cats but can indicate serious underlying diseases in older pets. This handout outlines causes, signs, and treatment of these conditions.
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Calcitriol is used off label and is given by mouth or injection to treat low blood calcium levels associated with low parathyroid hormone, as well as chronic kidney disease, certain cancers, and certain skin diseases. Side effects are uncommon if the dose is appropriate.
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Calcium acetate (brand names: PhosLo, Calphron, Eliphos) is a medication used to bind (attach to and remove) excess phosphate. This medication is used off label, primarily in patients with chronic kidney disease, as abnormally high phosphate levels occur with this disease.
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Calcium carbonate + chitosan (brand name Epakitin®) is a phosphorus binder and calcium supplement. It is used to treat high blood phosphorus levels in cats and dogs with chronic kidney disease and to treat low blood calcium levels in cats, dogs, and other species.
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Calcium oxalate bladder stones are composed of a mineral called calcium oxalate. Cats are more likely to develop oxalate stones when their urine contains high levels of calcium and oxalate. Additionally, a low urine pH promotes the formation of oxalate stones. Bladder stones can cause significant inflammation and irritation of the bladder wall. Signs may include frequent urination, straining to urinate, blood in the urine, and urinating outside of the litterbox. Male cats especially are at risk of a life-threatening urinary obstruction. Treatment options and prognosis are discussed.
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One of the more common uroliths in the dog is composed of calcium oxalate crystals. Current research indicates that acidic urine high in calcium, citrates, or oxalates predisposes a pet to developing calcium oxalate urinary crystals and stones. The most common signs that a dog has bladder stones are increased frequency of urination, painful urination, and blood in the urine. Male dogs are more commonly affected and may be at risk of a life-threatening urinary obstruction. Treatment options and prognosis are discussed.
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Calcium supplements are various forms of calcium used to treat or prevent low calcium blood levels (hypocalcemia) in many species. Calcium supplementation should only be used under veterinary supervision, as too much calcium can cause other health problems.
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Oral calcium (-carbonate, -gluconate, -lactate) is a phosphorus binder and calcium supplement. It is used to treat high blood phosphorus levels in cats, dogs, and other animals with chronic kidney disease and to treat low blood calcium levels in cats, dogs, and other species. Oral calcium comes in powder, capsule, liquid suspension, and tablet forms.
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Calendula (Calendula officinalis), also known as pot marigold, is most used as a topical anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. It has also been used less often to treat and prevent gastric ulcers, and to help lower blood sugar. Calendula is most often used in dogs, cats, and horses.
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Camphor + menthol + phenol, topical, is an over-the-counter product used to treat superficial wounds, cuts, and burns in horses and mules. It comes as a liquid spray and is better known as Scarlett Oil Pump Spray®, although there are several other over-the-counter products that contain camphor, menthol, and phenol.