Monday, December 6, 2010

Pet Medications For Addressing Skin Problems

Skin problems in dogs and cats are normally attributed to allergies which cause these pets to excessively scratch away at their fur effectively exposing the skin to more bacteria. Atopica (cyclosporine) is a type of medication used to deal with atopic dermatitis. This is a condition that materialises when a hypersensitive dog is exposed to allergens such as pollen, mould and dust mites. This medication comes in the form of a soft capsule. This capsule should be administered as it is and not opened to sprinkle the powder on food as cyclosporine is bitter in taste. In this case, pill pockets may come in very handy in the administration of this medication.

Atopica is mainly administered to dogs over 6 months old. It relieves the itchy skin, and reduces the scratching and gnawing behaviour that worsens the skin condition. This medication does this by suppressing the heightened immune system especially the cells involved in allergic reactions. Atopica is marketed mainly for dogs though some veterinarians have reported it to be effective in cats. The effects of this medication may take several weeks to materialise but the dermatitis should gradually reduce as the medication is sustained.

Baytril is an antibiotic that can be used to deal with the bacteria associated with skin infections in dogs and cats. Other than that, this antibiotic is suitable for treating respiratory tract and genito-urinary infections. This product is available in injection form or tablets that may also require the use of pill pockets to be administered.

The bacteria responsible for skin infections in dogs and cats usually congregate in the areas where the skin folds. It is here where they multiply in numbers because these areas are moist. These bacteria cause inflammation and infection causing the animal to scratch this and the surrounding areas. In this case, Baytril addresses this situation by killing the inflamed tissues. A point to note is that this medication works best on an empty stomach. The main side effects associated with these medications are diarrhoea and vomiting, and others are described on the package.

Administering bitter or unpleasant tasting capsules and tablets to cats or dogs may be a very tiring struggle and stressful for both you and your sick pet. You can however ease this situation through the use of pill pockets. These are hollow soft treats where the pill or capsule is inserted then given to the pet. Such pockets are available in a variety of tastes and sizes to suit your pet.

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Medications You Should Have Close By For Your Aging Dog

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) is a phenomenon that occurs in dogs as they age. After the veterinary confirms that this condition is not a result of physical or medical condition then Anipryl for dogs should come into play. The symptoms that Anipryl drugs addresses are overall confusion, personality and behavioural change, absurd barking for no good reason, disoriented sleeping patterns, soiling in the house and so forth. All this happen despite providing pet foods and occasional veterinary visits.

Anipryl for dogs is the equivalent of the medication used to treat Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Cushing’s disease in humans. Other than CCD, this medication is suitable for treating Pituitary Dependant Hyperadrenocorticism. Though this is somewhat a new drug, numerous dog owners are awed at the near perfect results obtained after a short spell of use. That said, Anipryl medication still requires some more time to establish itself as the right drug for these two conditions though going by the customers’ response it is surely getting there.

The main side effects associated with Anipryl for dogs are but are not limited to vomiting, anorexia, lethargy/inactivity, seizures, hyperactivity or restlessness. Antioxidants may be added to the dog’s diet to slow down these aging effects and boost cognitive health.

Another condition that occurs in dogs during old age is osteoarthritis, among other forms of inflammation. The drug used to effectively address these conditions is Metacam Oral suspension. This is a Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory (NSAID) medication that is used in controlling the inflammation and pain that emanates from acute and chronic musculoskeletal problems in the soft tissues of the dog’s limbs. A prescription of Metacam may also be provided to address fever in dogs.

Following approval from a veterinarian, Metacam oral can be used for prolonged periods to address osteoarthritis as it is a fast and effective pain reliever. This medication should however not be given to nursing or pregnant dogs. Dogs diagnosed with liver, heart or kidney disorders should not take this drug. The same applies to dogs that are allergic to NSAID medications.

Metacam medication for dogs is given once a day. It can be administered directly, but it is better than it is mixed with the dog’s food and at the same time plenty of water should be provided during the administration. Side effects associated with Metacam oral include vomiting, loss of appetite, increased breathing rate, irregular bowel movement and nausea.

Pet Care Products

Pets can be your best friends: they provide unconditional love, have just a few, basic needs, and are always willing to listen! Taking care of such friends then is of paramount importance. You can always give back the love you receive from your pet cat or dog by ensuring that they are always comfortable, well-looked after, and eat well.

These days, there are a multitude of delightful options for the perfect grooming and care of your pets. You can pick from a host of cute choices at the pets section of Athisbest.com. Choose from cat treats your kitty will love, dog food your pup will adore, chewy fun for your pets, and so much more.

The Greenies Pill Pockets, Capsule Pouch, Beef, is a wonderful product that ensures your pets will take all their medicines without a fuss. The Greenies Pill Pockets treat is a nourishing treat that comes with an inbuilt pouch, where you can hide the supplement or pill! Your pets will find the treat so yummy they simply won’t notice the pill!

The Dogswell Happy Hips Dog Chews, Chicken Breast, are great for ensuring your pets get adequate nourishment even as they have fun. The chews are enriched with antioxidants and protein that ensure healthy joints and digestion.

If you want your pets to look their best and keep their fur pristine, try the unique supplement Angels' Eyes for Dogs, Beef. This powder can be simply sprinkled over your pet dog or cat’s food. The supplement helps prevent tear stains and also stains around mouths. The Angels' Eyes supplement can be used for all dog breeds.

The Tidy Cat Breeze Cat Litter Pads Set is another great product that will help you keep your pet cats clean and pristine. These pads, used with the Breeze Litter System, go a long way in controlling the odor caused by cat urine. With these litter pads, your pets can stay clean and live in a neat, hygienic place.

The Greenies Feline, Cat Treats, Savory Salmon Flavor, is another delightfully creative product for your beloved pets. With these treats, you can keep your cat's teeth fresh and clean. This is a completely naturally made treat, and is fortified with vitamins, minerals, and Taurine. The salmon-flavored treat is great for reducing plaque and tarter.