Illustrated Articles
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Imidacloprid oral is given by mouth to treat flea infestations in dogs only. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting, soft stools, decreased appetite, or difficulty walking. Do not use this medication in cats, in puppies less than 10 weeks old or weighing less than 4 pounds, or in pregnant or lactating dogs.
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Imidacloprid topical is used on and off label and is applied topically to the skin to treat flea infestations in cats, dogs, and ferrets. It is frequently used in combination with other medications to treat a variety of parasites. Side effects are uncommon but may include irritation at the application site or drooling, shaking, vomiting, and decreased appetite if the medication is accidentally ingested. Do not use combination products in young pets. Certain combination products should not be used in cats.
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Imidacloprid with flumethrin (brand name Seresto® collar) is a topical antiparasitic drug contained in a collar used for control of fleas, ticks, and chewing lice on dogs and puppies at least 7 weeks of age. This medication is labeled for control of fleas and ticks in cats and kittens that are at least 10 weeks of age. Imidacloprid with flumethrin comes in a collar impregnated with the medication that, if used properly, is effective for 8 months.
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Imidacloprid, permethrin, and pyriproxyfen (brand names K9 Advantix®II, Provecta® Advanced, Activate®II) is a topical (spot-on) antiparasitic drug used in the prevention and treatment of fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, and chewing lice in dogs and puppies that are at least 7 weeks of age that weigh at least 1.82 kg (4 lb). NEVER use in cats as permethrin is highly toxic to cats. Do not confuse this medication with similar products that do not contain permethrin.
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Imidocarb dipropionate is an injectable medication that is administered by a veterinarian to treat babesiosis in dogs. It is also used off-label to treat other protozoal infections in dogs, cats, and horses. Most common side effects include mild drooling, tearing, vomiting, or nasal drip. Do not use in pets with exposure to cholinesterase-inhibiting drugs, pesticides, or chemicals. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Imipramine is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat behavior disorders, sudden loss of muscle tone, urinary incontinence, cancer pain, and other conditions. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include sleepiness, dry mouth, and constipation. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other tricyclic antidepressants, pets currently using MAOIs, or pets that are pregnant or nursing. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia is a condition in which the body destroys its own platelets. Platelets are cells that help the blood to clot. Causes can be primary (autoimmune) or secondary to other underlying conditions. The prognosis is generally good, though relapses can occur.
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Immunotherapy (oral and injectable) is a treatment that involves using a pet’s own immune system to fight health conditions, such as certain allergies or certain types of cancer. Immunotherapy is specially formulated for each individual. It comes in injectable and oral forms.
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Skin and gut issues are problematic and can be caused by many things, including food allergies. The best way to identify food allergies is through an elimination-challenge diet trial, in which you eliminate potentially allergenic foods and treats for the length of the diet trial, then methodically add foods back into the diet to determine response. If a food allergy is identified, avoiding the food usually results in a good outcome, although some dogs develop new allergies in later years.
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Vaccinations are important to prevent serious illness in dogs. Even dogs that spend all their time indoors should be vaccinated. Some viruses can be carried into your home on inanimate objects such as shoes and clothing, therefore infecting your dog without him coming into contact with another animal. Your veterinarian is your most important resource in determining what vaccinations you need to give your dog to keep him protected.