Library
-
Shar-Pei recurrent fever syndrome is a hereditary condition that affects nearly one in four Shar-Pei dogs. Affected dogs experience recurrent episodes of fever and inflammation, with no identifiable underlying cause. Inflammatory cytokines released during fever episodes contribute to the production of a protein called amyloid which is then deposited in a variety of internal organs, resulting in a condition known as amyloidosis. Signs that may accompany the fever episodes include swelling of the hocks and muzzle, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed to reduce fever and alleviate discomfort. Colchicine is the drug of choice for the long-term treatment. Affected dogs can often be managed, but the condition will affect them for the remainder of their lives. If your dog is already showing signs of chronic kidney disease, your veterinarian will also develop a treatment plan to address the kidney disease.
-
The "ancestral diet" for dogs and cats is a broad term for a feeding plan that generally mimics what a wolf or wild cat might consume in the wilderness. In practice, there is great variability in nutrients, ingredients, and safety considerations for food sold or produced as an ancestral diet. This article reviews these considerations, so that pet owners, along with their veterinary care teams, can make informed decisions for their pets.
-
Sildenafil is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat high blood pressure in the lungs or to treat megaesophagus. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, or skin redness in the groin area. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or pets that take nitrate medications. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinarian.
-
Silver sulfadiazine topical is an antimicrobial used to treat skin infections and burns in cats, dogs, and exotic pets. It is used off label in veterinary medicine. Silver sulfadiazine topical comes in a topical cream.
-
Simethicone is an anti-gas agent used to help treat pain, bloating, and flatulence caused by excessive gas in the gastrointestinal tract of cats, dogs, and other animals. It works as an anti-foaming agent by reducing surface tension on gas bubbles.
-
The most common skin problem in mini-pigs is dry skin that results from a dietary deficiency of fatty acids. In addition to dry skin, mini-pigs commonly suffer from sarcoptic mange, parakeratosis, yeast dermatitis, and sunburn. Hooves of mini-pigs grow continuously throughout life and need to be trimmed periodically. The canine teeth (tusks) of male pigs grow throughout life, while those of female pigs stop growing at about two years of age. Starting after the pig is about a year of age, your veterinarian will trim tusks during an examination.
-
Smectite (Bio-Sponge®) is an intestinal support supplement used in various animal species, including dogs, cats, horses, cattle, and small ruminants. It has adsorbent properties may help bind toxins, bacteria, viruses, and free-radicals in the intestinal tract.
-
Smoke inhalation injuries are caused by a combination of heat and airborne toxins. Clinical signs of smoke inhalation vary, depending on the materials contained within the smoke and how much smoke the cat inhales. Common signs include coughing, shortness of breath, eye injuries, and burns. Neurologic signs can also occur, especially in cases of carbon monoxide inhalation. Treatment typically involves oxygen therapy and other supportive care measures.
-
Smoke inhalation injuries are caused by a combination of heat and airborne toxins. Clinical signs of smoke inhalation vary, depending on the materials contained within the smoke and how much smoke the dog inhales. Common signs include coughing, shortness of breath, eye injuries, and burns. Neurologic signs can also occur, especially in cases of carbon monoxide inhalation. Treatment typically involves oxygen therapy and other supportive care measures.
-
Sodium chloride (hypertonic) ophthalmic is a topical medication used to reduce surface (corneal) swelling of the eye in cats and dogs. Sodium chloride is available without a prescription but should only be used under the direction of a veterinarian. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” to treat eye conditions in animals other than cats or dogs. Sodium chloride (hypertonic) ophthalmic comes in ointment and liquid drop form. Avoid use in animals with corneal ulceration or dry eye.
