Articles
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Veterinarians recognize the relationship between nutrition and the health of the skin and haircoat. It is important to prevent malnutrition, both by preventing deficiencies AND excesses of nutrients. Your veterinarian is the very best source of information and guidance for choosing the most appropriate nutrient profile for your cat.
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This handout summarizes the strong link between good nutrition and healthy skin and fur. Issues dealing with skin are a very common reason for visits to the vet, and the role of diet and supplementation in treating these conditions are highlighted.
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By-products are ingredients commonly found in commercial pet foods and are considered highly desirable by many human cultures. However, there is ambiguity surrounding this term and misperceptions related to overall nutritional value. This article reviews the formal definition of by-products in the pet food industry and highlights the nutritional and environmental benefits they provide.
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Corn and grain have been included in commercial pet foods for many years. Recently, however, these ingredients have been portrayed in the media as "fillers" that provide little nutritional value to pet foods. Conversely, corn and grain provide a wide range of essential nutrients that support the health of both dogs and cats. This article explores this topic with reference to specific nutritional benefits.
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Because of differences in large and giant dogs' energy and nutrient needs, some pet foods are specifically formulated for these requirements. Adequate diet and feeding management are important for adequate growth and preventing orthopedic problems and gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) or bloat. Specific recommendations are included for selecting an appropriate diet for a large or giant breed dog. Feeding management recommendations are also included.
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Because of differences in toy and small dogs' energy needs and size, it is essential to use pet foods specifically formulated for their requirements. Adequate diet and feeding management are important for proper growth and preventing excessive weight gain. Specific recommendations are included to select an appropriate diet. Feeding management recommendations for puppies and adult dogs are also included.
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Bladder stones can be a significant problem for dogs. Bladder stones set the stage for chronic urinary tract infection, and some bladder stones (struvites) grow more quickly if the dog already has a urinary tract infection. Diet selection can play a role, and it is important to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations to prevent recurrence.
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Nystatin combinations are applied topically to the skin and are used on and off label to treat skin lesions. The most common side effect is inflammation at the application site. Nystatin should not be used on pets that are allergic to it or on pets that have tuberculosis infections of the skin or a ruptured ear drum. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Nystatin, neomycin sulfate, thiostrepton, and triamcinolone topical/otic (brand names Animax®, Dermalog®, Panalog®, Quadritop®) is a combination antimicrobial (neomycin, thiostrepton), antifungal (nystatin), and steroid (triamcinolone) medication used to treat infections and inflammation of the skin, ears, and anal glands in cats and dogs. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” in other animals or conditions. This medication comes in ointment form.
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Oclacitinib is given by mouth and is used to treat allergic dermatitis in dogs and has also been used off-label to treat other types of skin conditions. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite. Do not use in pets with severe infections or in pets younger than 12 months old. If a negative reaction occurs, please call the veterinary office.
