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  • Neomycin/polymyxin B/dexamethasone ophthalmic, also known as neopolydex (brand name Maxitrol), is a combination antimicrobial and steroid anti-inflammatory medication used to treat certain types of bacteria (gram-positive and gram-negative). It is used to treat eye infections and eye inflammation. Neomycin/polymyxin B/dexamethasone ophthalmic comes in liquid eye drop and ointment forms. Avoid use in pets with eye ulcers.

  • Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial urinary bladder infections. It is typically used as a second-line antibiotic, when broad-spectrum antibiotics have not cleared the infection. It is used “off label” or “extra label” in veterinary medicine. Nitrofurantoin comes in capsule or liquid forms given orally. Never use in food-producing animals or animals intended for food.

  • Nitrofurazone topical (brand names Fura-Septin®, Furazone, others), is an antimicrobial used to treat surface bacterial infections, wounds, and skin ulcers in dogs. Some products may be labeled for use in cats. Nitrofurazone topical comes in ointment and powder forms. It is prohibited for use in food-producing animals.

  • 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.

  • Nutritional changes can improve the management and treatment of pancreatic diseases in cats. Diet type and pancreatitis in cats may not be as crucial as in dogs. Diet factors for managing pancreatitis, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, and insulinoma are discussed. Recommendations for feeding diabetic cats and approaching hypoglycemia are also described.

  • Like dogs and people, cats are susceptible to age-related brain changes associated with Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS). Behavioral changes such as excessive vocalization at night, having bathroom accidents, and increased anxiety are often associated with CDS, but a thorough examination must be completed to ensure that another medical reason is not the cause of the behavioral changes. Supportive care for the condition is discussed.

  • Nutrition is very important in managing cats with diabetes mellitus. Achieving a lean body condition is associated with better glucose control and an increased chance of remission. Other factors in dietary management of diabetes mellitus are discussed.

  • By-products are ingredients commonly found in commercial pet foods and are considered highly desirable by many human cultures. However, there is ambiguity surrounding this term and misperceptions related to overall nutritional value. This article reviews the formal definition of by-products in the pet food industry and highlights the nutritional and environmental benefits they provide.

  • Corn and grain have been included in commercial pet foods for many years. Recently, however, these ingredients have been portrayed in the media as "fillers" that provide little nutritional value to pet foods. Conversely, corn and grain provide a wide range of essential nutrients that support the health of both dogs and cats. This article explores this topic with reference to specific nutritional benefits.

  • Nystatin, neomycin sulfate, thiostrepton, and triamcinolone topical/otic (brand names Animax®, Dermalog®, Panalog®, Quadritop®) is a combination antimicrobial (neomycin, thiostrepton), antifungal (nystatin), and steroid (triamcinolone) medication used to treat infections and inflammation of the skin, ears, and anal glands in cats and dogs. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” in other animals or conditions. This medication comes in ointment form.