Skip to main content

Library

Content Library

  • 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.

  • Nizatidine is a histamine-2 (H2) blocker antacid used to help prevent and/or treat stomach ulcers in cats and dogs. It may also be used as a prokinetic agent to help empty the stomach. It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Nizatidine comes in oral capsule, tablet, and liquid forms.

  • 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.

  • Nutritional changes can improve the management and treatment of pancreatic diseases in dogs. To prevent chronic pancreatitis relapses, diet adjustments will be necessary. Diet factors for managing exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, pancreatitis, and insulinoma are discussed. Recommendations for feeding diabetic dogs 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Working and service dogs come in many forms; as such, their nutritional needs vary widely. All diets should be complete, balanced, and life-stage appropriate, with consideration towards energy density and maintenance of ideal body condition. This article reviews these nutritional considerations and provides clinically relevant tools for the dog handler and the veterinary care team.