Articles
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Selamectin + and sarolaner (Revolution Plus®) is used in cats 8 weeks and older to prevent heartworms and intestinal parasites (hookworms and roundworms), kill and prevent fleas, ticks and to control ear mites. It may also be used off label (extra label) “off-label” for the treatment of treat Demodex mites (demodicosis) in cats. Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment and notify your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
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Selegiline is typically given by mouth and is used off and on label in dogs and cats to treat signs due to cognitive dysfunction syndrome, pituitary-dependent Cushing’s disease, anxiety, and certain phobias.
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Cats older than 10 years are considered senior, although this varies by breed and size. As cats enter their senior years, aging affects every organ system, so a few extra health, lifestyle, and veterinary care considerations become important.
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Septic arthritis occurs when bacteria or another infectious agent is introduced into one or more joints, leading to painful inflammation. The signs of septic arthritis include heat, swelling, and pain in one or more joints. There is typically decreased range of motion in the affected joint(s), as well as fever, lethargy, and lack of appetite. This handout discusses causes, signs, treatment, and follow-up care.
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Serotonin is a neurotransmitter produced by the body that regulates mood, sleep, body temperature, pain perception, blood vessel constriction, gastrointestinal function, and even blood clotting. An animal with serotonin syndrome experiences excessive effects of serotonin. This handout reviews the causes, diagnosis and treatment.
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Sertraline is given by mouth and is an antidepressant used off label in dogs and cats to treat a variety of behavior disorders, including anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, and aggression.
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Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is produced in the brain and regulates the production of cortisol. When blood cortisol levels are low, it is secreted to stimulate more production, and when blood cortisol levels are high (like from an adrenal tumor), ACTH production is suppressed. ACTH testing alone cannot be used to diagnose Cushing's disease but can help determine what type of Cushing's disease the patient has.
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Serum biochemistry measures the amount of enzymes, proteins, sugar, electrolytes, minerals, and hormones found in the liquid portion of the blood. Testing for these substances provides information about the body’s organs and tissues, as well as the metabolic state of the animal. This article provides general information on the most routinely measured factors in serum and common reasons for abnormal readings.
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Electrolytes are the salts and metallic components that are dissolved within the blood serum (serum is the liquid portion of blood). The electrolytes of greatest clinical importance are sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, phosphorus, and calcium. It is important to detect changes in electrolyte concentrations so that these changes can be treated before the situation becomes severe or life-threatening.
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Serum iron tests are indicated when the results from a complete blood count (CBC) indicate that your pet is anemic (meaning they have decreased red blood cell numbers and/or decreased hemoglobin) and that the red blood cells are microcytic (smaller than usual) and hypochromic (contain less hemoglobin than usual). Tests to assess iron deficiency require a single blood sample that is sent to a veterinary referral laboratory.