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• Choosing the Best Diet for Your Pet

  Veterinarians generally agree that there is no single best food for all dogs or all cats. Our pets are individuals: some will prefer dry kibble, while others will prefer wet or canned food. Pet owners may also have preferences related to cost, convenience of shopping, and how a particular pet food manufacturer conducts their business. This handout briefly outlines key aspects of selecting the most appropriate food and water for your dog or cat.

• Clindamycin Topical

  Clindamycin topical (brand names ClinzGard®, others) is an antimicrobial used to treat bacterial skin infections, acne, anal sac abscesses, and other wounds in cats and dogs. Clindamycin topical comes in variety of forms.

• Clotrimazole Topical

  Clotrimazole topical is an antifungal used in the treatment of surface skin infections caused by fungal organisms in cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, reptiles, and other animals. Clotrimazole topical comes in a variety of forms that may be specially compounded and/or be combined with other medications. All forms are applied topically.

• Colloidal Oatmeal Topical

  Colloidal oatmeal topical (brand name DermAllay®, Epi-Soothe, others) is an anti-inflammatory, antipruritic (anti-itching), and emollient (softening, soothing) agent used in the treatment of surface skin disorders and skin reactions in cats and dogs. It is made from oat grains (Avena sativa). Colloidal oatmeal topical comes in spray, cream rinse, and shampoo forms.

• Congestive Heart Failure in Cats

  Severe heart disease in cats can lead to congestive heart failure, a condition that occurs when the heart is no longer able to pump blood to the body, and fluid starts to back up. With right-sided heart failure, fluid backs up in body cavities, whereas with left-sided heart failure, fluid backs up into the lungs. The most common type of heart disease in cats is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Difficulty breathing is the number one clinical sign.

• Cornifying Epitheliomas in Dogs

  Cornifying epitheliomas are benign skin tumors that are secondary to keratin buildup. They can develop anywhere but may be most troubling if they affect the skin around the nail, causing swelling, discomfort, and lameness. Surgical removal is curative in most cases.

• Cushing's Disease in Cats

  Cushing's disease is a condition in which the adrenal glands over-produce certain hormones. It may be caused by a pituitary gland tumor, an adrenal tumor, or prolonged corticosteroid use. Clinical signs include poor haircoat, pot-bellied appearance, increased drinking, and increased urination. Medical and surgical treatment options are discussed. Prognosis varies but is improved with intervention.

• Dantrolene

  Dantrolene is a muscle relaxant used to help relax the urinary tract and improve urine flow in cats and dogs. It has also been used to help prevent muscle contractions caused by certain toxicities in dogs and malignant hyperthermia in miniature pigs and dogs. It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Dantrolene comes in capsule and injectable forms.

• Darbepoetin Alfa

  Darbepoetin alfa is prescribed off label to treat low red blood cell levels (anemia) caused by progressing kidney disease in dogs and cats. It is administered by injections under the skin.

• Dasuquin Advanced

  Dasuquin® Advanced is a supplement used to improve joint function, reduce joint pain, and support flexibility and mobility in dogs and cats. Therapeutic ingredients include glucosamine, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), sodium chondroitin, and sulfate.