Articles
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Nebulization and coupage are used in patients with a variety of lung conditions and can be performed by veterinary staff and pet owners. Nebulization can be used to deliver moisture or medication to the lungs. Coupage is often recommended for patients with pneumonia or bronchitis to help loosen secretions in the lower airways.
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Telehealth is a broad term that refers to the use of telecommunications to provide health-related services. Telehealth services can be delivered by a variety of methods including telephone, text messaging, internet chat, and videoconferencing. Telehealth, including teletriage and telemedicine, can supplement in-person care and can provide a safe and practical method of receiving some veterinary care during times of physical or social distancing.
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Telemedicine is the act of practicing medicine at a distance. Telemedicine can be offered in several different ways: telephone calls, text messaging, online chat, email consultations, and visits conducted through videoconferencing programs. While it is impossible to perform a complete, comprehensive exam during a telemedicine appointment, in many cases your veterinarian can gather enough information to arrive at a reasonable diagnosis and start treatment.
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Telmisartan (brand name Semintra) is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure in cats and off-label to treat kidney disease in both cats and dogs. This medication is given by mouth in the form of a liquid or tablet.
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Terbinafine oral tablets or granules are commonly used off label to treat skin or systemic fungal infections in dogs and cats. Common side effects are primarily gastrointestinal, such as vomiting, inappetence, and diarrhea, and should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease. If treating with this medication long-term, your veterinarian will perform periodic blood tests to check liver function and monitor for any changes or elevations.
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Terbinafine cream or spray is occasionally used off label to treat skin fungal infections in dogs, or in a veterinary combination product to treat ear infections. It is ineffective for treating fungal skin infections in cats. When given as directed, side effects are rarely noted, but could include skin irritation.
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Terbutaline is a bronchodilator used to treat symptoms of asthma and other respiratory conditions in cats, dogs, birds, reptiles, and other animals. Terbutaline should be used with caution in pets with heart disease, heart arrhythmias/high blood pressure, who have diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism or epilepsy. Your veterinarian may assess baseline heart and lung function (e.g., rate, rhythm, X-rays, blood pressure) and/or check baseline blood work before starting this medication.
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Testicular tumors are generally not aggressive and have a low metastatic rate. Pets with undescended testicles (cryptorchid) are predisposed to the development of certain testicular tumors. Hyperestogenism is possible with Sertoli cell tumors. In any cryptorchid pet, removal of both testicles should be pursued. Intraabdominal tumors in cryptorchid pets may cause lethargy, decreased appetite, and fever. Standard staging is recommended in all cases, including a rectal exam. Surgery is typically the treatment of choice and may be combined with radiation therapy or chemotherapy if metastasis is evident.
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Addison’s disease, or hypoadrenocorticism, results from decreased corticosteroid and mineralocorticoid production from the adrenal glands. This results in non-specific signs of illness that mimic many other diseases. This article outlines screening and diagnostic tests for Addison’s disease.
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Abdominal enlargement may develop for many reasons depending on the age and gender of the cat. It can be a simple problem and even a normal condition in some pets. However, abdominal enlargement can also indicate serious underlying disease. Prognosis depends on the underlying cause.