Library
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Phytosphingosine topical (brand names Douxo®, SkinGuard®) is an anti-inflammatory agent, with antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is used in cats and dogs to help relieve itching in certain skin conditions and help restore the skin barrier. Phytosphingosine topical may be part of a combination product.
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Pilocarpine is used off-label and given by mouth in food to treat neurogenic keratoconjunctivitis sicca, and used topically in the eye to diagnose cranial nerve III problems. Common side effects include irritation of the eye, and more severe side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, increased salivation and urination, and coughing. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or that have secondary glaucoma.
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Pimobendan is a medication given by mouth as a tablet or liquid, used to treat congestive heart failure in dogs. Its use in cats is off label. The most common side effects include decreased appetite and diarrhea.
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Clinical signs of pituitary tumors depend on whether the tumor is functional or non-functional. Functional tumors can cause Cushing's disease in dogs and can cause acromegaly and insulin-resistant diabetes in cats. Non-functional pituitary tumors can enlarge to cause neurological signs. Diagnosis is based on the history, bloodwork, urinalysis, and sometimes a CT scan or MRI. Medical therapy is often the treatment of choice for functional tumors. Radiation therapy is another option and is usually the primary treatment for non-functional tumors.
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Bouquets and plants make wonderful gifts and decorations for our homes. However, many plant species can be hazardous to your cat's health. Be aware of the plants and flowers you are bringing into your home to prevent accidental poisonings. This handout outlines several common toxic plants.
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Plaque prevention gel (brand name Oravet® Plaque Prevention Gel) is applied to a pet’s teeth at home to create an invisible barrier that will help prevent plaque and tartar formation on the exterior parts of the tooth (the crown). It can be used on both dogs and cats.
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Plasma cell tumors develop as a result of dysregulated production of plasma cells and are relatively uncommon in dogs and cats. Some plasma cell tumors are benign and the most common locations for these tumors are the head, feet, lips, mouth, and ears. The treatment of choice for benign plasma cell tumors is surgical removal, with little to no recurrence if completely excised. Conversely, multiple myeloma is a very malignant cancer that is usually treated with chemotherapy.
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Platelet-rich plasma or PRP is a form of regenerative medicine where the platelet and protein components of blood are retrieved from a patient and then injected back into the patient at the site of inflammation. PRP contains growth factors that appear to promote tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation. The procedure is not yet widely available and should only be performed by a veterinarian with specialized equipment and special training in this area.
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Polycythemia vera is a rare disease of dogs and cats in which too many red blood cells are produced by the bone marrow. The blood becomes thick and has difficulty moving through the small blood vessels. Your pet may feel tired, sluggish, and weak. Polycythemia is a potentially fatal disease, but if discovered early enough, treatment may be possible. If left untreated, polycythemia vera can affect the heart.
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Polyethylene glycol is an off-label laxative used to treat constipation and empty the colon in preparation for procedures such as colonoscopy. The most common side effects are diarrhea, flatulence, and abdominal cramping. Do not use it in pets that are allergic to it or in pets with an intestinal blockage/obstruction.