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  • Lung tumors are considered rare in cats and dogs. Many pets may not show symptoms at first, and a tumor may be found coincidentally. Depending on the type and stage of cancer, treatment may be possible; otherwise, symptomatic supportive care may be an alternative option.

  • In North America, many parasitic lungworms infect cats. Cats can become infected by swallowing infective stages of parasitic lungworm. The exact means of becoming infected varies according to the life cycle of the particular parasite. Signs can include coughing, heavy breathing, wheezing, sneezing, poor appetite or anorexia, weight loss, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, and ocular or nasal discharge, and may be more prominent in kittens due to their immature immune systems. Although the success rate of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the number of parasites present, the prognosis for recovery is generally good.

  • Hip Dislocation and Postoperative Care in Cats

    La cadera es una articulación sencilla compuesta por una bola y un cuenco, que puede realizar una gran cantidad de movimientos en todas las direcciones y su función es permitir un adecuado movimiento de las extremidades posteriores.

  • Lymphatic tumors are rare in pets. Lymphangiomas are benign and lymphangiosarcomas are malignant and have a moderate-to-high metastatic potential. Patients with lymphatic tumors typically have severe edema or cavity effusions because of lymphatic obstruction and leakage. These types of tumors occur more frequently in young dogs and cats. Treatment usually involves surgical excision and chemotherapy may be used as a follow-up treatment in the case of lymphangiosarcomas.

  • The most common forms of cutaneous lymphoma are epitheliotropic lymphoma and dermal lymphoma. No specific risk factors or causes have been identified in the development of cutaneous lymphoma. Generally, cutaneous lymphoma can appear as various-sized irritated, ulcerated, or infected patches anywhere on the skin, including the gums, nose, or lip margins. These areas may become ulcerated and bleed, or become crusted. Secondary infections are possible. By far, the most common treatment for cutaneous lymphoma is chemotherapy. Unfortunately, the response to treatment, although initially encouraging, is typically short-lived, with gradual return of the tumors.

  • Once a pet has lost some weight, the new goal is to make sure that excess weight stays off. Pet parents who partner with their veterinary health care team for support and who focus on changing their behaviors often have the most success. Examples of some changes include using a different food or a different feeding method, focusing more on portion control, and incorporating some movement or activity time into each day. This article addresses several commonly asked questions about how to help a pet during the maintenance phase (after the weight has been lost).

  • Marbofloxacin is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat certain bacterial infections including leishmaniasis, tuberculosis, and hemoplasmosis. Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of appetite. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other quinolones, or in small and medium breed dogs before 8 months of age, in large breed dogs before 12 months of age, in giant breed dogs before 18 months of age, or in cats before 12 months of age. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Maropitant citrate (brand name Cerenia®) is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or injected under the skin and used to treat nausea and vomiting in dogs and cats. Common side effects include vomiting and increased salivation, or pain at the injection site. It is contraindicated in pets with a GI obstruction, GI toxicity, or in pets under 8 weeks old. Use caution in pets with heart or liver disease, or in pets under 16 weeks old.

  • Meclizine (brand names Antivert®, Dramamine® Less Drowsy Formula, Bonine®, Bonamine®, Postafen®, Univert®) is an antihistamine used off label to prevent and treat motion sickness and vomiting associated with it, in cats, dogs, and other small mammals. The most common side effect is sedation and sleepiness.

  • Medicinal mushrooms are given by mouth and are used over the counter (and under veterinary supervision) to supplement the treatment of cancer and other conditions. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects may include stomach upset, diarrhea, dizziness, and skin rash. Do not use in pets that are allergic to mushrooms, and use cautiously in pets that are pregnant, nursing, or have diabetes, clotting disorders, low blood pressure, immune-mediated disorders, liver problems, or kidney disease. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.