Educational Articles
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Milbemycin oxime + praziquantel is a heartworm disease preventive that also controls tapeworms, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms in dogs. It is given by mouth as a flavored chew tablet and must be given with a meal to ensure adequate absorption. At prescribed doses, this medication is well-tolerated. Your veterinarian will advise you on the safety of this combination product’s use in your dog. If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately.
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Milbemycin oxime + spinosad is a heartworm disease preventive that also controls hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and fleas in dogs. Milbemycin oxime + spinosad is given by mouth as a flavored chew tablet. At prescribed doses, this medication is well-tolerated. Your veterinarian will advise you on the safety of this product’s use in your dog. If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately.
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Feline miliary dermatitis is a skin condition that typically results from an underlying allergic reaction, most commonly to fleabites. An affected cat will have a very itchy rash and may lick, bite, and scratch at the affected skin, quickly progressing to small lesions with scabs on them. The offending allergen must be removed for long-term resolution.
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Silymarin is an over-the-counter nutritional supplement that is used off-label and is given by mouth to treat liver and cancer conditions. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting or diarrhea. Do not use it in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call the veterinary office.
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Mirtazapine is given by mouth or is applied to the skin and is used to treat weight loss in cats and is used off-label to treat inappetence, nausea, and vomiting in cats and dogs. Give as directed. The most common side effects include vocalization, restlessness, vomiting, incoordination, or trembling. Do not use it in pets that are allergic to it or that have recently used an MAOI. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinarian.
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Miscarriage refers to the death of a fetus during pregnancy, with the most common cause being infection. It may also be caused by hormonal shifts or abnormalities. In many cases, there are no visible signs of miscarriage. If miscarriage is suspected, ultrasound is used to assess the pregnancy and determine whether the fetuses are alive. Finding a cause for the miscarriage, especially if that cause is a treatable condition, may improve outcomes in future pregnancies.
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Miscarriage refers to the death of a fetus during pregnancy, with the most common cause being bacterial infection. Hormonal shifts or abnormalities may also cause miscarriages. In many cases, there are no visible signs of miscarriage. If miscarriage is suspected, ultrasound is used to assess the pregnancy and determine whether the fetuses are alive. Finding a cause for the miscarriage, especially if that cause is a treatable condition, may improve outcomes in future pregnancies.
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Mites affecting pet hedgehogs, often called quill mites, are fairly common. Initially, an affected hedgehog may become itchy but if mites are left untreated, the clinical signs can become severe. Treatment for your hedgehog should always be under the guidance of a veterinarian.
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Mitral valve disease is often one of the earliest indicators of heart disease that could lead to heart failure. It is more common in small dogs than large breeds. This handout discusses mitral valve disease in dogs, a degeneration of the valve between the left atrium and left ventricle. The clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and the prognosis of this condition are outlined.
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Pets that have been diagnosed with epilepsy are usually prescribed one or more medications to prevent convulsions or seizures. Careful monitoring of epileptic pets is necessary, not only to make sure the dose of the medicine is right, but also to ensure there are no problems related to the long-term use of the medication. The most important thing to do is follow your veterinarian's instructions closely and give the medication regularly and consistently. This will ensure that the value reported on the blood test is reliable.
