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  • X-ray images are produced by directing X-rays through a part of the body towards an absorptive surface such as an X-ray film or electronic sensor. The image is produced by the differing energy absorption of various parts of the body. Bones are the most absorptive and leave a white image on the screen, whereas soft tissue absorbs varying degrees of energy depending on the density, producing shades of gray on the image. Air on an X-ray is black. X-rays are a common diagnostic tool used for many purposes.

  • Most cats care for their kittens with little need for human intervention; if they do not, then their caregivers need to step in. It is critical to maintain a warm environment and ensure they receive enough milk. Kittens’ weight should be checked daily in the first two weeks and any prolonged crying should be investigated. Feeding can be supplemented with commercial milk replacer if needed. Further feeding and vaccination recommendations are discussed. Contact your veterinarian for specific instructions.

  • Ramipril (Prilocard®, Vasotop®) is an ACE-inhibitor drug used in the management of congestive heart failure and high blood pressure in dogs and cats. It may also be useful in the treatment of some forms of kidney disease in dogs and cats.

  • Ranitidine is a type of acid reducer used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and small intestines and to treat erosive gastritis, esophagitis, and esophageal reflux in dogs and cats. Ranitidine may be used to stimulate bowel activity and stomach contractions in cats and rabbits. It may also be used in rabbits to treat stomach ulcers and in ferrets to treat Helicobacter mustelae.

  • A RAST test, or radioallergosorbent test, is a blood test that can be used to determine which allergens are causing a pet's allergies. This test is often performed as part of the workup for atopic dermatitis in cats. The results of allergy testing are typically used to develop a hyposensitization plan for your cat, which helps desensitize your cat to allergens. Many cats treated with hyposensitization, formulated on the basis of RAST results, experience a significant reduction in the signs of allergic dermatitis.

  • Feeding raw food to cats is potentially dangerous - not only to the cat eating the raw food, but also to other pets and humans in the environment, due to the high likelihood of bacterial contamination. Raw food may also not be complete and balanced and could lead to nutrient deficiencies or toxicities. Consuming raw food with bones can lead to life-threatening foreign body obstruction.

  • Rawhide-based oral hygiene chews are chews with an abrasive texture that can help prevent or delay the formation of dental plaque and calculus build-up on your pet’s teeth. C.E.T.® Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews is one common brand.

  • Contenido en español actualizado.
    Translated from the original English article Tooth Resorption in Cats

  • Cats have evolved to hide signs of illness and pain. This means that in the early stages of illness, often the only thing that a cat owner may notice is that the cat has become quiet and withdrawn. This article outlines some signs of illness you can look for. In general, any sudden change should alert you that your cat needs veterinary attention. If your cat does not seem right, make an appointment see your veterinarian for an examination as soon as possible.

  • Contenido en español actualizado.
    Translated from the original English article Reducing Fear and Stress with Desensitization and Counterconditioning