Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Everything You Need To Know About Capstar for Dogs and Cats

If you’re a dog or cat owner, you know how troublesome fleas can be. Fleas are wildly uncomfortable for your pet, causing them much discomfort and itchiness throughout the day. If left untreated, you can expect a flea infestation on your beloved pet that can quickly get out of hand. Fleas can also lead to more serious pet skin conditions, such as flea allergy dermatitis in dogs and miliary dermatitis in cats. Luckily, you have thousands of options when it comes to locating an effective flea treatment for your pet. However, today we’ll be breaking down everything you need to know about Capstar. It seems to be one of our best-selling products to kill fleas on your precious dogs and cats.

While you should always consult with your vet first, we’ve listed everything from how effective Capstar is to its potential side effects so you can be as informed as possible since this is an over-the-counter flea medication.

How Does Capstar Work?

Capstar is an oral treatment in the form of tablets intended to kill adult fleas on dogs, puppies, cats and kittens that are two pounds or heavier and at least four weeks old. The active ingredient in Capstar is nitenpyram (belonging to the chemical class of neonicotinoids). Nitenpyram interferes with fleas' neurotransmission - killing them.

Capstar is recognized for its fast-acting formula that begins working within 30 minutes of dosing. Within four hours of initial dosing, it can eliminate 90 percent of adult fleas on your pet! Capstar works to eliminate adult fleas in particular because an adult female flea can produce thousands of eggs.

Capstar for Dogs

Dogs seem to be more susceptible to fleas just because they run around outside on a more regular basis, so you may encounter flea infestations at a higher rate if you’re a dog owner. It’s important to note that Capstar does not work to prevent fleas. If reinfestation does occur, an additional dose of Capstar can be given to your dog or puppy. While Capstar is safe for pregnant or nursing dogs, it should not be given to puppies weighing less than two pounds or younger than four weeks.

Capstar for Cats

More recently, Capstar has undergone some packaging changes, and you’ll see separate Capstar for cats products. However, this product is the same as Capstar for Dogs and Cats and simply has a new look. Never give Capstar to kittens less than four weeks old or that weigh less than two pounds. It’s safe for all those nursing or pregnant cats out there.

Side Effects of Capstar

While Capstar has been proven to be effective in killing fleas, some side effects have been reported in pets. In dogs, hyperactivity or lethargy may occur, so keep a close eye on your canine. They’ll also begin scratching profusely, but this is due to the fleas dying off rather than a side effect of the medication. You may notice some dizziness or nervousness in your dog. In cats, you may notice their pupils dilating, increased vocalization or salivation. Both cats and dogs may vomit, have diarrhea or lose their appetite.

Capstar Versus Other Flea Treatments

There are many advantages to an oral pest control like Capstar. Since it’s taken in tablet form, there’s no messy topical solution or strong odors you have to deal with like you would with shampoos, drops or ointments. Additionally, a single dose should eliminate the current infestation on your pet, but if you have a larger, heavier dog, an additional dose may be given once per day until all fleas are killed. Capstar is also safe for pregnant or nursing pets.

Capstar can be used in conjunction with other flea management treatments, including heartworm prevention, vaccines, deworming medications, shampoos, antibiotics and corticosteroids.

You can shop for Capstar at Medi-Vet. We offer different variations depending on the weight of your dog:
For Dogs 2-25 Pounds (6 tablets)
For Dogs 2-25 Pounds (60 tablets)
For Dogs Over 25 Pounds (6 tablets)
For Dogs Over 25 Pounds (60 tablets)

Wednesday, June 5, 2019

Cerenia Tablets: Preventing Car and Motion Sickness in Dogs


We often get a lot of questions from pet owners regarding certain medications that veterinarians have prescribed their dogs. It’s common to want additional clarification when it comes to prescribed medicine! While we always encourage owners to ask questions and discuss concerns with their vet, we also understand the need for personal research. Some of the most frequently asked questions we receive are about Cerenia tablets for dogs, which is a medication that is often prescribed as an anti-vomiting treatment. Below, we break down the different uses, dosing information and the side effects of Cerenia. What is Cerenia used for? Cerenia (maropitant citrate) is actually the only FDA-approved medication that treats and prevents canine vomiting from a variety of reasons. A major yet common cause of nausea and vomiting among dogs is motion sickness while travelling. While there are other symptoms of motion sickness are excessive drooling and panting, the most concerning can definitely be vomiting. It can be especially alarming when transporting a dog via car, plane or boat because of the obvious mess and smell. While the image of a dog happily panting with his tongue out of car window seems to be ingrained in all of our minds, the truth of the matter is a lot of dogs actually fear cars and can get quite anxious when they’re inside of one. Cernia works to alleviate and prevent nausea which makes it incredibly useful for planning travel and transportation. In addition to the discomfort, your dog can actually become dehydrated or develop gastrointestinal issues with repeated vomiting. If you notice a spike in acute vomiting with your dog, your vet may also prescribe Cerenia to understand the root cause of frequent vomit. Cerenia may also be administered right before a surgery to assist in preventing an opioid reverse reaction (most commonly present as a preanesthetic). Cerenia works by actually blocking vomiting signals in your dog’s brain to prevent vomiting.




What is the dosing information for Cerenia?

Cerenia is available in two forms: injection and tablet. As an injection, it will be administered at your vet’s office. As a tablet, your vet will prescribe a specific dosage to be taken at home. While you should always follow your vet’s dosage instructions when it comes to the tablet formulation, this is the common dosing info: 

Administer Cerenia tablets orally at a minimum dose of 2 mg/kg (0.9 mg/lb) body weight once daily for up to 5 consecutive days.

Cerenia tablets are also only recommended for use in dogs that are eight weeks or older. Puppies between two and seven months can be given this medication every day for up to five days while dogs older than seven months can ingest it daily until the vomiting has stopped.

We’re also often asked whether Cerenia can be given with food and the answer is yes. However, it’s recommended you give your dog his or her recommended dose two hours before traveling with a small amount of food.

What are the side effects of Cerenia?


As with most medications, there are some side effects when it comes to Cerenia that includes lowered energy or drowsiness, weight loss, diarrhea or stool changes, and lack of appetite. When receiving the injection formulation, another side effect can be pain or tenderness at the injection site. It’s also a good idea to plan a trial of the medication before actually embarking on a long trip. Vomiting can still occur even on an empty stomach and since diarrhea can be a possible side effect, you don’t want to swap out one stinky mess for another. It could ruin your road trip or any travel adventure. 

Just like you prepare for an upcoming vacation, you should give great consideration to your dog if he or she is joining you on your next trip. No matter the mode of transportation, consider your dog’s feelings and reactions to a new environment and prep by visiting the vet, especially if you know your dog is prone to fear of travel. It is possible to prevent car sickness in dogs with the right medication! At Medi-Vet, we carry Cerenia in different dosing strengths, including: 16mg, 24mg, 60mg and 160mg

Thursday, May 16, 2019

Pet Anxiety and Stress Management Supplements

Calming an anxious dog or cat isn't always easy. Anxiety and stress levels
can quickly rise if your pet is traveling or present during thunderstorms
and fireworks displays. If your pet is diagnosed with cancer or another
illness, hemp-derived products can help alleviate pain and promote
overall relaxation. Properly soothing your pet can greatly help you
and, more importantly, help your pet feel better.

Unsure whether your cat or dog is feeling particularly stressed or anxious?
Pet stress or anxiety can manifest in different ways. Some common
indicators include excessive whining, moaning and barking. Stress
and anxiety can heighten aggression or decrease activity. If you notice
a sudden behavioural change that affects eating habits or bodily functions,
these may also be side effects. We always recommend taking your pet for
a professional diagnosis! However, we'll be breaking down the types of
pet anxiety relief supplements below so you can decide which calming aid
is the one right for your furry pal.  



Chews

One of the easiest types of pet calming aids to administer are chews.
Chews are often formulated with ingredients meant to target pain
and inflammation. What's particularly fantastic about chews is that
they also provide support for mobility and joint function and even help
alleviate stiffness across the body. They're also in yummy flavors that
your dog or cat will enjoy! If you're looking to add a daily vitamin to your
pet's diet, calming chews are definitely the way to go.

On our site, you'll find hemp chews made with broad-spectrum CBD,
glucosamine and sodium hyaluronate, like the ElleVet Hemp Mobility
made with whole hemp-plant essential oil in each chew.


Oils

There's a lot of confusion about hemp oil for pets. While each brand is
different, most CBD oil is made from full-spectrum certified organic hemp.
Often, the entire hemp plant, including the seeds and stalk, is utilized in
order to retain all the benefits of CBD. While there is still plenty of research
to go, hemp for pets can be used as a pain and anxiety management
supplement aimed at reducing arthritis, inflammation and GI tract issues
and can even treat some side effects of epilepsy.

It's best to administer CBD oil underneath your dog or cat’s tongue and
on an empty stomach. It's best not to combine with mealtimes, and
after administering the
recommended dosage, you should wait 30 to 40 minutes
before serving your pet its meal. We recommend Pet Releaf, HempRx

If you’re having trouble administering with the dropper, capsules may ease
things!

Topicals

As you may have guessed, topicals work when applied topically to the
skin.These types of relaxation pet aids work in very much the same way
that oils do; however, topicals often have a more concentrated form of
CBD oil in the formula. While CBD is the active ingredient, topicals are
typically more soothing since they are slathered on different parts of the
body. Pet Releaf Canna Care topical, for instance, is also formulated with
soothing ucuuba butter, grapeseed oil, eucalyptus oil and more. CBD
topicals for cats and dogs are used to treat dry skin, inflammation and
insect bites and to relieve pain associated with arthritis.

Treats

The most enjoyable type of pain or calming supplement for your pet will
definitely be delicious treats! Made with tasty ingredients like blueberries,

cranberries, peanut butter and bananas, these dog and cat treats may
actually contain beneficial neurologic and anti aging properties. Because
they’re made with CBD, they’ll still have all the relaxation benefits of oils,
topicals and chews, but in a much more fun method of delivery for your
pet. This is also a more affordable introduction to CBD for your dog or
cat. We recommend trying the Pet Releaf Edibites in peanut butter banana


It is definitely possible to help your pet relax a little more with the right
supplements! Start out with treats and chews if you’re looking to add a
multivitamin-type supplement on a daily basis. Alternatively, if your pet
is fighting a painful disease like cancer or arthritis, investing in higher-dosage

topicals or oils may provide better pain management. Have a question?
Please feel free to drop it below. Our pet experts are here to help pair your
pet with the right product!

Thursday, April 25, 2019

Ofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution - Bacterial Eye Infection Treatment for Pink Eye and Corneal Ulcers



Every now and then cats and dogs can catch bacterial eye infections that are uncomfortable, painful and even threatening to their sight. The most common infections include cornea ulcers and conjunctivitis (pink eye), which can be extremely uncomfortable for your pet and lead to any of the following symptoms:


  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Light Sensitivity
  • Blinking
  • Squinting
  • Thick or Excessive Eye Discharge
  • Pawing at the Eye
  • Holding Eye Closed


If you see your furry friend experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s definitely time for a Vet visit. Once there, your veterinarian is likely to recommend ofloxacin ophthalmic (OO) solution to help alleviate discomfort or pain. This treatment is commonly used for in dogs, cats, birds and even reptiles. It works by stopping the bacteria from multiplying at a genetic level so that the infection doesn’t spread.

How do I apply the medication?



It is important to first note the appropriate amount of OO dosing for your pet:

Cats & Dogs: apply 1 drop every 6 hours
Birds: 1 drop every 12 hours
Reptiles: 1 drop every 8 - 12 hours

Your vet may recommend a different dosage but this is the most commonly used dosage in pets. It is also important for you to consult with your veterinarian if this solution is appropriate for young animals, kittens or puppies less than 1 year old. Now that you have the prescribed solution and dosage amount, you’ll want to carefully and safely apply the solution to your pet’s eyes.


  1. Start by washing your hands with soap and water.
  2. Make sure the tip of the dropper has not been tampered with and isn’t chipped or cracked.
  3. DO NOT touch the dropper tip against anything, not even the affected area. This will help prevent the spread of germs and bacteria.
  4. Tilt your pet’s head back so that the solution lands on the affected eye completely and place the dropper tip directly above the eye WITHOUT touching it.
  5. Gently and quickly apply the medication to your pet as it will cause stinging and can be difficult to apply once they start to wiggle around.
  6. Wipe off any excess solution and keep your pet from pawing at their eye so the affected area can absorb all of the solution.
  7. Reapply the solution as necessary.



Keep in mind that if you miss a dosage all you have to do is apply it the second you remember. After that, carry on with your normal dosage schedule but be careful not to double dose if you miss one.

What are the side effects?



Once you apply the solution on your pets, it can cause slight stinging or irritation, discomfort, pain, redness, dryness, itching, tearing and even blurred vision. However, this is temporary and should last no longer than a couple of minutes. Alert your Vet as soon as possible if these side effects persist longer or if your pet experiences any of the following:


  • Hives
  • Itching
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Inability to Swallow
  • Skin rash
  • Swelling


These symptoms are dangerous and can be a byproduct of an allergic reaction to the medication.

What is the shelf life of Ofloxacin Ophthalmic?

This eye drop solution must be prescribed to you by your veterinarian as your pet’s dosage may vary. Its shelf life is relatively short as the prescribed bottle can only effectively be for three months and should not be used to treat other pets in order to avoid contamination and the spread of bacteria. We recommend only keeping the bottle until your pet is healthy again. A 10ml bottle of OO typically costs around $12.99, which makes it a relatively cheap eye treatment. If you are a licensed veterinarian in search of a good discount for this solution, click here for a coupon to receive free shipping on orders over $79.

Thursday, April 4, 2019

Everything You Need To Know About Prednisone for Pets

If your vet has recently prescribed prednisone for your dog or your cat, you may have
questions regarding its uses, dosage information and side effects. If prednisone
sounds familiar to you in a setting outside of the vet’s office, it may be because
it's a treatment recommended for humans too! However, we'll be breaking down this
medication and its uses in dogs and cats.


Prednisone for Dogs and Cats




Prednisone is a synthetic steroid with significant anti-inflammatory activity. It's used to
treat a variety of conditions because it affects the inflammatory process at different
levels. It belongs to a group of drugs called corticosteroids, which all manage
inflammation in diseases or medical conditions involving the immune system. Our
bodies and the bodies of our pets produce a natural corticosteroid called cortisol.
However, certain diseases, which we'll outline below, can exacerbate the body's need
for anti-inflammation relief, and prednisone’s overall anti-inflammatory activity is about
four times that of cortisol. It may be administered in a variety of ways, including orally,
topically or via injection.


What Is Prednisone for Dogs and Cats Used For?

Prednisone for pets is used to treat inflammation, autoimmune diseases and even regulate the immune
system of your dog or cat. It can also be used in emergency reactions like
anaphylactic reactions, spinal cord trauma and other forms of shock. The most typical
reasons veterinarians prescribe it are to treat the following:


- Allergies
- Addison's disease
- Anaphylactic shock
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Autoimmune disease
- Central nervous system disorders
- Cushing's disease
- Dermatitis
- Eczema
- Hormonal disorders
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Liver conditions
- Lupus
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Orthopedic disease


As with any prescription medication, special care has to be taken to follow dosing
instructions. This is especially the case with prednisone, since chronic or inappropriate
use of a corticosteroid can have long-term effects on a pet, such as life-threatening
hormonal and metabolic changes.


Prednisone Side Effects in Dogs



Short-term use of prednisone usually does not cause negative side effects. Some
short-term side effects, however, can include panting, vomiting, diarrhea, increased
appetite and thirst, poor haircoat, loss of energy, weight gain or skin infections.


More serious side effects may occur when prednisone is used for longer periods of
time, especially when high dosages are used. Adverse effects are also much more
common in pets that are on immunosuppressive doses. These side effects may include
the following:


- Diabetes mellitus
- Elevated liver enzymes
- GI disturbance
- GI ulceration
- Lipidemia
- Muscle wasting
- Pancreatitis
- Polyuria
- Polydipsia
- Polyphagia
- Possible behavioral changes


Polyuria, polydipsia and polyphagia may be seen in dogs even on short-term therapy.


Prednisone Side Effects in Cats




Cats actually may require higher doses of prednisone to have a clinical response to
the medication, and they are also less likely to develop side effects.


However, the following side effects may still occur in cats:


- Behavioral changes
- GI disturbances
- Polyuria
- Polydipsia
- Weight gain
- Polyphagia
- Diabetes mellitus


Prednisone Dosage Recommendations for Dogs


As mentioned above, cats often require a higher dosage of the medication to reach a
vet's desired effects - much higher than a dog - so dosage instructions will depend
greatly on the vet's recommendations. Please refer to the specific dosing directions in
reference to any prescription drug.


Average oral doses for dogs are based on a recommendation of 2.5 mg per 10 pounds
(4.5 kg) body weight per day:


5 to 20 pounds (2 to 9 kg) body weight - 1.25 to 5 mg


20 to 40 pounds (9 to 18 kg) body weight -  5 to 10 mg


40 to 80 pounds (18 to 36 kg) body weight - 10 to 20 mg


80 to 160 pounds (36 to 73 kg) body weight - 20 to 40 mg


The total daily dose of prednisone should be given in divided doses, six to 10 hours
apart.


Drug Interactions and Overdosing


If your pet is on other medications or supplements, it's important to review them
thoroughly with your vet since there are multiple drug interactions that can have
adverse effects or inhibit the effectiveness of prednisone. Here are some drug
interactions to be aware of:


Amphotericin B or diuretics may cause an increased risk of electrolyte imbalance.


Estrogen may potentiate the effects of corticosteroids.


Vaccination immune response may be reduced.


Prednisone may increase the requirements of insulin in pets with diabetes.


Stomach and GI ulcers may occur when a corticosteroid is administered with a
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) prone to causing ulcers.


Aspirin and other salicylates, phenytoin, phenobarbital, rifampin, cyclosporin,
erythromycin, mitotane and anticholinesterase drugs such as neostigmine and
pyridostigmine may all cause drug interactions.


Overdosing on prednisone is unlikely in short-term administration because of adrenal
suppression. Long-term administration can cause problems that relate to the
suppression of normal adrenal functions, metabolic crisis because of abrupt
withdrawal of prednisone or iatrogenic Cushing's disease.




At Medi-Vet, we supply you with the right medications and supplies to keep or get your
pet healthy. Be sure to check out our detailed product description to learn more about
prednisone in a variety of milligram strengths, including 1 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg.

Prescription medications like prednisone can only be purchased on Medi-Vet by
licensed veterinarians and pharmacies. A current license must be on file prior to
shipping.