The Differences between Brand Name and Generic Medications
This handout summarizes the differences between brand name and generic medications. Included is an explanation as to why both forms of medications exist, as well as things to watch out for when opting to use or request a generic medication. Cost savings for generic medications are also discussed.
Spider Bites
The two groups of spiders responsible for most medically significant spider bites include the widow spiders (Latrodectus spp., including the black widow spider) and the recluse spiders (Loxosceles spp., including the brown recluse). The clinical signs and treatment of black widow and brown recluse spider bites vary significantly due to differences in their venom.
Pet Insurance
Pet health insurance policies are primarily designed to cover accidents and illnesses. Pet insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions, and some have bilateral exclusions, meaning for example, if one knee has required ligament surgery, the other knee is automatically excluded for the same condition. Synthesized information about coverage and exclusions can be found on aggregator sites, such as PetInsuranceInfo (petinsuranceinfo.com). The factors that affect premiums include age, species, breed, the region you live, deductible amounts, co-insurance, and in some cases annual payout limits. Generally, it is less expensive to insure your pet when it is young and healthy, rather than waiting until it is older and more prone to illness. Educate yourself to understand the terms and conditions of the pet insurance you buy for your pet.
Obtaining a Veterinary Second Opinion for your Cat
If your cat has a complicated condition or is not getting well, you may want to seek a specialist referral or a second opinion. Your veterinarian will likely help you get this set up as they want what is best for your pet. You will likely need to travel in many situations for a specialty referral.
Mothball Poisoning in Cats
Mothballs are solid pesticides that slowly release a vapor to kill and repel moths, their larvae, and other insects from stored clothing and fabric. Mothballs are sometimes also used to repel snakes, mice, and other animals, although this use is not recommended and can be harmful to pets, children, and the environment.
Memorializing Pets
This handout summarizes the many options available to help celebrate your pet’s life and ways to help deal with your grief following the loss of your beloved pet.
Loss of a Pet – Grief and Bereavement
Grief is the normal and natural response to the loss of someone or something. It is a full body experience that includes physical, emotional, cognitive, social, and spiritual responses. The best way to manage your grief is to be reassured that these reactions are normal and to let them run their natural course. Grieving takes time. Usually it gradually lessens in intensity over time, but if it doesn’t, then professional counseling may help.
Fever of Unknown Origin in Cats
To be classified as a fever of unknown origin (FUO), the body temperature must be above 103.5°F (39.7°C) for longer than a few days, with no obvious underlying cause based on history and physical examination. A fever is beneficial to the body, but if a fever remains above 106°F (41.1°C) for more than a few days several consequences occur within the body and can be life threatening. If your pet has a fever, your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination, perform diagnostic blood tests, urine culture, and possibly other diagnostic tests. Antibiotics are often prescribed. Cats that have persistent fever or a fever that waxes and wanes must undergo a thorough work-up so that the cause of fever can be discovered and treated before irreversible damage occurs.
Euthanasia Decisions and Your Cat
Open and honest communication with your veterinarian and veterinary healthcare team throughout your cat’s life lays the foundation for effective communication when that cat’s life begins drawing to a close. Discussion with your veterinarian will clarify any specific medical implications of your cat’s disease that can serve as benchmarks to suggest that euthanasia should be considered. Most often, euthanasia is provided at the veterinary practice or in your home. The veterinary healthcare team will be an important partner as you negotiate the difficult days and decisions leading up to your cat’s peaceful passing.
Elizabethan Collars in Cats
An E-collar or cone may be needed after your cat has surgery or if she has a wound. It can prevent your cat from licking their wound or scratching a wound on their head. Your cat should wear the E-collar following the directions provided by your veterinarian. You may need to make a few adjustments in your home to ensure your cat does not get stuck in confined spaces. It is not recommended to let your cat outdoors while she is wearing the collar. Also, you may need to adjust her feeding station to assist with eating. If your cat will not tolerate the E-collar, discuss other options with your veterinarian.
