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  • Atrioventricular (AV) valve dysplasia is a developmental malformation of the mitral or tricuspid valve in the heart. Signs include exercise intolerance, accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, weight loss, and stunted growth. Difficulty breathing or collapse may occur if congestive heart failure develops. Treatment of AV valve dysplasia is focused on managing signs of congestive heart failure and/or disturbances in heart rhythm, generally using medications.

  • Atropine ophthalmic (brand name Isopto Atropine) is an eye medication used to dilate (enlarge) the pupil. It is used off label (extra label) only, in all veterinary species of animals. Atropine ophthalmic comes in a 1% drop, solution, or ointment form, which is placed directly into the eye.

  • Atropine sulfate is used in the eye to dilate the pupil. It may also be used to control pain in the eye due to corneal and uveal disease and in treating secondary glaucoma.

  • AIHA or IMHA is a life-threatening condition that may occur as a primary condition or secondary to another disease. Most cats with AIHA have severe anemia and their gums will be very pale. They will be anorexic, listless, easily tired, and will have increased heart and respiration rates. Diagnosis involves a complete blood count (CBC), biochemical profiles, urinalysis, and X-rays or ultrasound of the abdomen and chest. Treatment may involve blood transfusions and other medications over a prolonged time. The prognosis may be better if an underlying cause can be identified.

  • This handout summarizes autoimmune skin disease in cats, a condition whereby the immune system attacks the body's own tissues. The many different variations of autoimmune skin disease are described, along with clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

  • Avenanthramides with ceramides and chlorhexidine (brand name CeraSoothe CHX®) is an antiseptic, antifungal, and skin nourishing agent used in the treatment of surface skin infections and skin reactions in cats and dogs. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” in other animals and to treat other conditions. Avenanthramides with ceramides and chlorhexidine comes in mousse and shampoo forms.

  • Feeding raw food to cats is potentially dangerous to both your cat and to you, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM), and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA. With nearly 25% of the raw food samples testing positive for harmful bacteria, the health risks for cats who eat the raw food, as well as for the cat owners who handle the food while preparing it, are real. It is reasonable to conclude that a commercially prepared, conventional, complete and life-stage balanced ration is a better choice.

  • Azathioprine is used to suppress the immune system. It is used to treat diseases and disorders caused by an overactive immune system. Examples of conditions the medication may be used for include immune mediated skin disease, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, rheumatoid arthritis, polyarthritis, polymyositis, eosinophilic enteritis, myasthenia gravis, atrophic gastritis, ulcerative colitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, ocular histiocytoma, and chronic active hepatitis. When taking this medication, your pet may become more susceptible to infections. If possible, keep your pet away from stray animals or animals that may have an infection.

  • Azithromycin is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off-label to treat a variety of infections. Give as directed. Common side effects include stomach upset. Do not use in pets that are sensitive to macrolide antibiotics. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Azodyl is a nutritional supplement that may decrease azotemia, a condition in which there is too much nitrogen—in the form of urea, creatinine, and other waste products—in the blood. Azotemia occurs in cats that have chronic kidney disease (CKD). In theory, Azodyl works by adding nitrogen-consuming bacteria into the intestines. Azodyl should be considered an adjunct (secondary) treatment for CKD.