Articles
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L-theanine (ANXITANE®) is a nutritional supplement used to treat anxiety in dogs and cats. It is an amino acid naturally found in green tea leaves and is available as a chewable tablet.
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The lacrimal duct is part of the nasolacrimal system, a series of narrow tubes that allow tears to drain from the eye into the nose and mouth. This duct can sometimes become blocked or fail to develop properly. The clinical signs, diagnosis, and treatment options for the condition are explained in this handout.
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Lactated Ringer's solution (also known as LRS or Ringer's Lactate) is a fluid and electrolyte (salt) replacement solution used to correct fluid and electrolyte imbalances in cats, dogs, birds, pocket pets (small mammals), and other animals. Lactated Ringer's solution comes in injectable form.
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Lactulose is used off label and is given by mouth to treat high blood ammonia levels and constipation in dogs, cats, birds, and reptiles. The most common side effects are diarrhea, bloating, gas, and abdominal cramping. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or in pets with intestinal blockage/obstruction.
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Lameness, or limping, is a common sign of pain or weakness in cats and can result from a wide range of injuries, diseases, and orthopedic conditions. This article explains how veterinarians diagnose the cause of lameness and the treatment options that may help restore comfort and mobility.
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Lanthanum is a phosphorus binding agent used to treat high blood phosphorus levels due to kidney disease in cats and dogs. It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Lanthanum comes in tablet and powder forms to be given orally.
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Laser surgery is a procedure in which a beam of light energy is generated at a specific wavelength, resulting in the cutting of tissues. Laser surgery has major advantages when compared to traditional surgery, including decreased pain, decreased inflammation, and improved tissue healing.
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Latanoprost (brand names: Xalatan®, Monoprost®, Xelpros®) is used off label to reduce pressure in the eye and treat glaucoma in dogs and other animals. Latanoprost is applied to the eye as a liquid solution.
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Leaky gut syndrome refers to an increase in the permeability of the intestines. This condition may be caused by any significant damage to the intestines. Acute cases of leaky gut may be caused by infection, trauma, toxins, or medication overdoses. Chronic cases, in contrast, may be caused by food allergies, long-term NSAID use, or other causes. Treatments will be targeted at the underlying disease causing your cat's leaky gut.
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Leflunomide is an immunomodulating agent agent (a substance that modifies the immune system) used to treat certain immune-mediated conditions in cats and dogs. It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine.