Library
-
Carpal laxity is a condition in which the carpus has an abnormal or excessive range of motion. Carpal laxity can show up in one of two ways: carpal hyperextension or carpal flexion. The underlying cause of carpal laxity has not been definitively determined but may be caused by nutritional factors, genetic factors, and being raised on slippery flooring surfaces. Signs of carpal laxity may be seen at any time from 6 weeks of age onward, but the condition is most commonly noted between three and six months of age. Activity modification is often recommended for affected kittens by keeping them off slippery surfaces. Most kittens with carpal laxity will appear completely normal within six to eight weeks.
-
Carprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used on and off label. It is given by mouth in the form of a tablet to treat pain and inflammation. The most common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. Do not use this medication in pets with bleeding disorders, in pets that are allergic to it or other NSAIDs in the same class, or in pets concurrently using corticosteroids or other NSAIDs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
-
Carvedilol is a heart medication that may be prescribed off label in dogs, cats, guinea pigs, and turkeys for the treatment of heart conditions including abnormal heart beat frequencies (arrhythmias) and heart failure due to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
-
A bonded pair consists of two cats that thrive when kept together. Shelters recognize the benefits of housing and adopting out bonded pairs together. Potential cat owners should consider the pros and cons and make an educated decision regarding their adoption options. Caring for two cats means a commitment of more time and money, but it may also mean more joy.
-
Cat bites can be dangerous both to other animals and to humans. All cats carry bacteria in their mouths that can cause tissue infections in bite wounds. These bites may lead to serious conditions such as cellulitis and/or septicemia. Immediately wash your wound and contact a physician as soon as possible to have the wound properly treated.
-
A Cat Friendly Practice is a voluntary designation through the Feline Veterinary Medical Association (FelineVMA). To earn the Cat Friendly Practice designation, a veterinary practice must demonstrate that they have taken specific steps to understand cats' unique needs and have implemented feline-friendly standards of care.
-
Cat scratch disease (CSD) is caused by the bacteria Bartonella that is transmitted by cat fleas and other biting insects. Cats act as reservoirs for the bacteria. Humans are exposed to the bacteria through flea feces that contaminate skin lesions or eyes. Signs include fever, lethargy, enlarged lymph nodes, and lesions on the eye and skin. The disease is usually self-limiting; however, some people will require antibiotics, especially if they are immunocompromised. Tests are available for diagnosis in humans as well as in cats. The most important ways you can prevent CSD include strict flea control, good hygiene, keeping your cat indoors, and keeping your cat's nails trimmed.
-
Treats are a great way to bond with your cat but are an additional source of calories that must be considered within the overall diet. Treats should be no more than10% of your cat's daily calorie intake and, in greater quantities, can create a nutritional imbalance. Consider choosing lower calorie treats for your cat to avoid exceeding the 10% rule.
-
A cat-only veterinary practice is typically designed with cat comfort in mind. Feline practices are especially interested in delivering medical care to cats in ways that help your cat (and human family members) experience as little stress as possible.
-
A cataract is an increase in opacity of the eye’s lens. Any type of inflammation or damage to the lens can lead to a cataract. The clinical signs of cataracts vary depending on the size of the cataract; many cataracts are asymptomatic at the time they are diagnosed during a veterinary exam. The ideal treatment for cataracts is surgery, but not all cats are candidates for surgical treatment. In these cases, anti-inflammatory medications may be used to prevent glaucoma and other secondary complications of cataracts.
