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  • Cats and dogs can become intoxicated by cannabis in various ways, most commonly by eating edibles (e.g., baked goods, candies, chocolate bars, and chips containing cannabis), or by ingesting cannabis directly (in any form). Pets can also be exposed to second-hand smoke. A small amount may affect one pet more than another, so there is no official safe level of exposure. Many of the signs of intoxication are neurological, including disorientation, dilated pupils, and hyperactivity. In severe cases, tremors, seizures, and coma can result. Regardless of the method of exposure, accurate and complete information from the owner is imperative to treat the patient successfully.

  • Capromorelin is an appetite stimulant used to encourage appetite in dogs and help manage weight loss in cats with chronic kidney disease. It is a liquid solution given by mouth. Side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, increased drinking and urination, and intestinal sounds. This medication should not be used in pets allergic to it and be used with caution in those with liver and kidney disease. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.

  • Captopril is given by mouth and is used off label to treat congestive heart failure and high blood pressure. Give as directed by your veterinarian. The most common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other ACE inhibitors. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Carbamazepine is given my mouth and is used off label in dogs, cats, and horses to treat seizures, pain, and behavior disorders. Common side effects in animals are unknown, but may include dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, and vomiting. Do not use in pets that have recently used amitraz, are pregnant, or have bone marrow disease. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.

  • Carboxymethylcellulose polymer + propylene glycol gel (brand name Intrasite®) is a water-based gel that helps rehydrate wound tissue and helps keep moisture balance to aid in wound healing. This medication comes in a water-based gel form in application packs.

  • Vaccines save lives and prevent disease but can have some mild common side effects. Other less common but more serious side effects can occur within minutes to hours after vaccination. These reactions are considered medical emergencies, and you should seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your pet is having a more serious reaction.

  • COVID-19 is a viral respiratory disease of humans that was first discovered in late 2019. The illness is caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2, which is a new coronavirus that has not previously been identified in humans. Certain animals can be infected by the COVID-19 virus, but it appears to be infrequent. Dogs and cats seldom show severe clinical illness if infected with COVID-19.

  • Carnitine is an amino acid nutrient given by mouth and is used to treat dilated cardiomyopathy and other heart diseases in dogs, or to treat hepatic lipidosis (liver disease) in cats. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include mild diarrhea or vomiting. Do not use the D form of carnitine, use the L (Levo-) form only. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Carprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used on and off label. It is given by mouth in the form of a tablet to treat pain and inflammation. The most common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. Do not use this medication in pets with bleeding disorders, in pets that are allergic to it or other NSAIDs in the same class, or in pets concurrently using corticosteroids or other NSAIDs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.

  • Online shopping for convenience and great prices has quickly become the new normal in today's consumerism society. Although technology may help us be savvy shoppers, it's still good to be cautious about what you purchase online, especially when it comes to your pet's medications.