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Osteosarcomas are somewhat rare in cats and progress slowly. Osteosarcoma is very painful. The most common location where osteosarcomas develop in cats is the hindlimb. Amputation is by far the most common treatment. Chemotherapy is not generally pursued without evidence of metastasis, given the relatively long-term control with surgery alone.
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Rarely, ovarian tissue can be left behind when a cat is spayed. This leads to the ongoing secretion of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone that can result in a cat continuing to have a heat cycle. Ovarian remnants are difficult to diagnose but vaginal cytology, combined with hormone testing, can be used to confirm the presence of functional ovarian tissue. Surgical treatment is typically recommended to prevent other health conditions from developing.
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The ovary contains several different cell types. These include the germ cells, which make the eggs, the supporting (stromal) and hormone-producing cells as well as epithelium, connective tissue and blood vessels.
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Obesity is the most common problem in cats in North America and leads to an increased risk of diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and several types of cancer. Extra body fat causes increased inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. Reducing inflammation and pain can help an overweight cat to regain activity, which in turn can lead to more appropriate weight loss. Obesity can be prevented or reversed when cat owners are aware of calorie intake, body condition, and improving movement or activity.
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Obesity is a common problem in cats. It results from too many calories being eaten and not enough calories being burned. Extra body fat causes increased inflammation in the body, worsening osteoarthritis and joint disease. To prevent your cat from becoming obese, speak to your veterinarian about your cat’s calorie needs and an appropriate food for your cat's life stage. Increasing your cat's daily activity can help prevent or reverse obesity. Be aware of your cat's body condition and keep track of her weight.
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Oxazepam is given by mouth and is used off label to stimulate appetite and to treat behavior-related disorders. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include sleepiness and drooling. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other benzodiazepines, nursing pets, or those that have glaucoma. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Oxytetracycline is an antimicrobial medication used to treat bacterial infections. It is used to treat infections in cats, dogs, and fish. It is used “off label” or “extra label” to treat bacterial infections in exotic animals. Oxytetracycline comes in oral tablet or compounded liquid forms.
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Oxytetracycline/polymyxin B ophthalmic (brand name Terramycin®) is a combination antimicrobial medication used to treat certain types of bacteria (gram-positive and gram-negative). It is used to treat eye infections in cats and dogs. It is used “off label” or “extra-label” to treat eye infections in avian species, hedgehogs, and rabbits. Oxytetracycline/polymyxin B comes in ointment form.
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Most cats instinctively hide their pain as a survival mechanism which can make detecting pain in cats a challenge. Although the signs may be subtle, careful observation of a cat’s everyday behaviors will often reveal pain when it is present. These signs may include changes in behavior, mobility, elimination, and grooming habits. Common pain medications include NSAIDs and opioids. Your veterinarian will choose the appropriate drugs based on your cat's specific needs.
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Palliative care can be as easy or complex as necessary, to meet the needs of the pet and human family. Some palliative care patients benefit from massage, therapeutic laser, temperature therapy (heating or cooling devices), acupuncture, chiropractic, and physical rehabilitation techniques. Palliative care creates a bridge of care to support a pet as the time for humane euthanasia approaches. It is not a substitute for euthanasia, but it often helps us postpone euthanasia, allowing our pets to remain with us for whatever quality time remains for them.