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.
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