Educational Articles
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Extracorporeal shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a treatment that uses high energy sound waves to exert changes in the target tissues. In specific situations it can decrease pain and increase healing. Conditions that can be treated, types of shockwave therapy, contraindications and adverse effects are discussed.
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Taking care of a paralyzed pet comes with many challenges. This handout reviews the needs of a paralyzed pet and how an owner can help them at home.
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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are most often used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever, much like how ibuprofen and naproxen are used by humans. In pets, they are most used around surgical procedures, after injury, or to help manage chronic pain such as that of osteoarthritis. Risks and potential side effects are discussed.
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Obesity is a common problem in cats. It results from too many calories being eaten and not enough calories being burned. Extra body fat causes increased inflammation in the body, worsening osteoarthritis and joint disease. To prevent your cat from becoming obese, speak to your veterinarian about your cat’s calorie needs and an appropriate food for your cat's life stage. Increasing your cat's daily activity can help prevent or reverse obesity. Be aware of your cat's body condition and keep track of her weight.
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This handout provides a brief overview of the most common evidence-based modalities used in veterinary medicine. Pet owners need to discuss the risk of recommended modalities for their specific pet with a trained and certified rehabilitation therapist before starting a rehabilitation program.
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As veterinarians become more conscious of the details and nuances of how cats experience pain, they search for more methods with which to battle both acute and chronic pain in these patients. Therapeutic massage is one example of a physical medicine technique that has found a place in the feline pain management toolbox.
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Tramadol is a synthetic opioid given by mouth in the form of a tablet, capsule, or compounded liquid, and is used off label to treat pain. Common side effects include sedation, gastrointestinal upset, or agitation. It should not be used in pets that are hypersensitive to opioids, and should be used cautiously in geriatric, sick, or pets with seizures. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
