Pet Health Articles
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In some cases, two laid-back adult cats can be easily introduced with minimal drama. In other cases, the introduction does not go as smoothly. Fortunately, you can help increase the likelihood of success by introducing two adult cats slowly and gradually.
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Using desensitization and counterconditioning, a behavior modification technique, can change a pet's negative emotional response to triggers. The technique is well suited for pets experiencing fear, frustration, or hyperarousal. Desensitization must be done slowly and systematically to avoid inadvertently sensitizing the pet.
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Iodide (sodium, potassium) is an oral antifungal used to treat certain fungal infections (e.g., sporotrichosis) in cats and dogs. It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine outside of use in cattle. Use with caution in cats.
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Irrigating solutions, ophthalmic, are ocular irritants used to flush debris and remove excess fluorescein stain from the eyes in cats, dogs, and other animals. These solutions may also be used to flush the nasolacrimal ducts and during eye surgery.
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Isoflupredone combinations topical are combination medications containing isoflupredone (a corticosteroid) and other medications. Isoflupredone may be compounded with an antibiotic, a local anesthetic, or other medications to treat surface skin conditions where use of a steroid combination product is indicated.
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Isoniazid (INH) is an antimycobacterial that has been used to prevent infection of mycobacterial disease in small animals in households with humans who have been diagnosed with tuberculosis. It has also been used as part of a combination protocol to treat mycobacterial disease in cats and dogs. Treating active infections is controversial due to zoonotic transmission potential - consult with local public health officials before treating.
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Isopropyl myristate topical (brand name Resultix®) is a topical, non-insecticidal product containing an ester alcohol (isopropyl) and an acid (myristate). It is used for the removal and killing of attached, crawling ticks on cats and dogs. Sprays are applied topically, directly to the skin at the site of tick attachment.
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Itraconazole is given by mouth in the form of a capsule, tablet, or liquid to treat fungal infections in cats and for off-label treatment in dogs and small mammals. The most common side effects are anorexia, vomiting, liver toxicity, skin lesions, or limb and vessel swelling. It should not be used in pets with liver disease or low stomach acid production, and used with caution in pregnant, lactating, or pets with heart disease.
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Ivermectin is most used as a heartworm preventive in dogs and cats. It is also used off label for treating a variety of internal and external parasites. Ivermectin may be combined with other deworming medications. Ivermectin is available as tablets, chewable tablets, a topical liquid (for ear mite treatments), and an injectable that your veterinarian will administer.
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Joint fluid analysis can help diagnose joint disease in pets, allowing for targeted treatment. It requires removal of a small amount of fluid from the joint using sterile technique.