Articles
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Losing a pet is difficult. Take time to grieve, focusing on the good things you shared with your pet. This handout discusses memorial ideas that can help you remember the good times and celebrate your pet’s life.
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This handout discusses meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, in dogs. The numerous potential causes, along with the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of the condition are outlined.
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Meningoencephalitis is a term referring to inflammation of the brain and the surrounding fluid and tissues. Meningoencephalitis of unknown origin is a term used to describe those cases of meningoencephalitis in which MRI and cerebrospinal fluid analysis indicate the disease but diagnosis through histopathological analysis is not possible. Treatment typically involves immunosuppressant drugs, sometimes with the addition of antibiotics. The prognosis depends on several factors, which are also explained in this handout.
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Meropenem is an antibiotic used to treat multi-drug-resistant bacterial infections in cats and dogs, particularly infections caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Its use in veterinary medicine is limited to susceptible infections with documented resistance to other antimicrobials. Its use is off label in veterinary medicine. Meropenem comes in an injectable form.
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Metaldehyde is a chemical commonly found in slug and snail baits. Poisoning occurs when pets ingest it, even in very small amounts. Signs generally appear within a few minutes and up to three hours after ingestion. Prognosis is good with aggressive treatment.
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Methazolamide (brand names Neptazane®, GlaucTabs®, Glaumetax®, MZM) is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor used off label (extra label) to treat open angle glaucoma in dogs and cats. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, have significant liver, kidney, or adrenal disease, have electrolyte imbalances, have severe obstructive lung disease, or have closed angle glaucoma.
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Methionine (brand name Methio-Form) is a nutritional supplement used to make urine more acidic in cats and dogs. Urine acidifiers help manage certain types of urolithiasis (urinary stones). Methionine comes in gel, chewable, powder, and tablet forms. Monitor urine pH and seek immediate veterinary care if signs of Heinz-body anemia appear in cats (pale gums, red-brown urine, weakness).
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Methocarbamol (brand names: Robaxin®, Robinax®, Robaximol®) is a muscle relaxant used to reduce muscle spasms associated with inflammation, injury, intervertebral disc disease, and certain toxicities. It is used only in companion animals. It is given by mouth as a tablet.
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Methylprednisolone is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off label in dogs, cats, and horses to treat inflammatory, immune-mediated, and hormonal conditions. Common side effects include increased drinking, urination, and appetite, dull/dry haircoat, and/or weight gain.
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Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring supplement used primarily as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant for conditions such as arthritis and some cancers. MSM is used most often in dogs and horses, although cats may benefit as well.