Library
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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.
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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.
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The clinical signs of heart failure are seen in many cats as they age. The two most common causes of CHF are chronic valvular disease and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Hypertension (high blood pressure) may contribute to heart disease and CHF. Secondary diseases, such as obesity, excessively high thyroid, or kidney disease may require dietary changes. Key nutritional goals are to maintain a stable body weight, deliver appropriate calories, and feed a balanced diet that the cat will regularly eat.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Ocular lubricants (brand names OptixCare® Eye Lube Plus, Remend® Eye Lubricating Drops, I-Drop® Vet Plus Lubricant/Gel) are tear replacement agents used to add moisture to the eyes in cats, dogs, and exotic companion animals. Ocular lubricants come in gel and liquid drop forms.
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Ofloxacin ophthalmic is an antimicrobial medication used to treat certain types of eye infections in cats, dogs, and exotic species. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” to treat other eye conditions. Ofloxacin ophthalmic comes in liquid drop form.
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Olopatadine ophthalmic is an antihistamine medication used to treat pruritus (itchiness) of the eyes caused by allergies in animals. Olopatadine ophthalmic comes in liquid drop suspension form.