Articles
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Hydroxyurea is given by mouth and is used off label to treat certain cancers in cats and dogs. Common side effects include bone marrow suppression, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth and stomach ulcers, loss of toenails and/or hair coat.
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Hydroxyzine (brand names: Atarax®, Vistaril®, Masmoran®, Multipax®) is an antihistamine used off label in cats, dogs, horses, and birds to treat allergic and itchy conditions. It can also be used as a sedative/tranquilizer. Hydroxyzine is given by mouth in the form of a tablet, liquid solution, or capsule. It may also be given as an injection in the hospital.
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Hypercalcemia occurs when the level of calcium in the blood is higher than normal. High calcium levels may signal the presence of serious underlying diseases including kidney failure, adrenal gland failure, a parathyroid gland tumor, and some types of cancer. Cats may have idiopathic hypercalcemia, in which no cause can be identified. Signs and testing for hypercalcemia are discussed.
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Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated levels of lipids (fats) in the bloodstream and can be due to several causes. Often times there are no clinical signs. Hyperlipidemia is confirmed using a 12-18 hours fasting sample. The pet's medical history and a search for an underlying cause is important for its treatment. If no underlying cause is found, your pet will need to start eating a low-fat, high-fiber diets, and may be started on the appropriate medications and supplements.
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Hyperthyroidism is a common condition in older cats caused by excess thyroid hormone release resulting in an increased metabolic state. Hyperthyroidism can cause weight loss despite a good appetite, increased water consumption and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, cardiomyopathy, and hypertension. Diagnosis is made by testing blood thyroid hormone levels. Several successful treatment options exist, including medication, thyroidectomy, radioactive iodine, and a prescription diet. The prognosis with treatment is generally good.
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Hypocalcemia means that the level of calcium in the bloodstream is low. Signs of hypocalcemia include restlessness, stiffness, weakness, irritability, muscle tremors, hypersensitivity to touch and sound, and seizures.
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Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) topical is used for the management of skin conditions such as wounds, abscesses, cuts, abrasions, skin irritations, ulcers, post-surgical incision sites, and burns. It may be used to prevent or treat bacterial skin infections, including methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). HOCl has antifungal and antiviral properties and may reduce inflammation, pain, and itching.
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Hypokalemia is a low concentration of potassium in the blood. Potassium is vital for the normal function of muscles and nerves. The underlying cause of hypokalemia is often chronic kidney failure. Hypokalemia and its associated clinical signs may be quickly corrected by potassium supplementation.
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Ibuprofen is commonly used in humans to treat fever, pain, and inflammation. Ibuprofen poisoning occurs when a cat ingests a toxic dose of ibuprofen, either through misuse or by accident. Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can be extremely harmful in cats, and small doses can cause adverse effects and poisoning.
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Icterus is also known as jaundice. It is an excessive accumulation of a yellow pigment called bilirubin in the blood and tissues, most easily seen in the gums and whites of the eyes. Icterus can be caused by hemolysis, liver disease, or obstruction of the bile duct. Your veterinarian will perform screening tests to determine the root cause of icterus.