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Have a Pet? Simple Medications You Need to Stock for Dogs and Cats

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Neha

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5 min read

24 Aug, 2024

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As a pet owner, knowing how to address common health issues in dogs and cats can help keep your furry friends happy and healthy. However, it’s essential to understand which medications are safe for home use and when it's best to consult a veterinarian. 


All of the medications listed below can be the first step towards healing. “However, a pet parent should not experiment and definitely use human medication only if suggested by the vet. Please don’t use paracetamol on cats. It’s fatal to them. In fact, if either cats or dogs have a fever, go to a vet. Don't self medicate,” insists Dr Naveen Kumar, BVSC, Blue Ridge Pet Clinic, Bangalore.  


Source: Pixabay


Here’s a guide to simple medications that you can keep at home. These can help manage some of the most common health problems in pets in India. You can get them at the nearest vet, or can online order from stores like Supertails, Vetco, and Amazon.


1. Digestive Upsets (Diarrhea and Vomiting):


For dogs: 


Medication for Vomiting: Sucralfate syrup or Corise Diarest Cool Syrup.


Medication for Diarrhea: Flagyl tab or Norflox-TZ tab. 


Use: To cool down gastro-esophageal reflux, gastritis, peptic ulcer, stress ulcers, GERD & dyspepsia.


For cats: 


Medication for Vomiting: Pro-kolin paste. 


Medication for Diarrhea: Synfosium capsule. 


Use: A prebiotic to help soothe the gut lining. 


Probiotics: Use Probiotics like 1BC or Gutwell to restore healthy gut flora and alleviate diarrhea caused by minor digestive issues or after antibiotic treatment.


Home remedies: Plain, unsweetened yogurt or cooked mashed pumpkin (small amounts).

Avoid probiotics that contain artificial sweeteners. 


2. Minor Skin Irritations and Allergies:


For dogs: Cetirizine (Zyrtec) tabs


For cats: Cetirizine syrup 


Use: It is used to treat and prevent pruritus (itching) associated with atopic dermatitis, urticaria (hives), and insect bite reactions in cats and dogs.


Caution: Make sure you ask your vet before administering and know the dosage based on the body weight of your pet. 


3. Pain and Inflammation: 


For dogs: Carodyl tabs 


For cats: Meloxicam tabs 


Use: Both can provide temporary relief for mild pain and inflammation, particularly for arthritis or minor injuries.


Caution: Both meds should only be given under the guidance of a vet, and long-term use should be avoided.

Supplements: Glucosamine supplements can help manage joint pain and stiffness in dogs and cats, especially those with arthritis or aging joints. 


4. Ear Infections and Cleaning: 


For dogs: Pomsol drops or epiotic cleanser 


For cats: Calm ears or epiotic cleanser 


Use: Weekly cleaning veterinary-approved ear cleaner can help prevent and treat minor ear infections or buildup in both dogs and cats.


Caution: Always check with your vet before cleaning if there is significant debris, redness, or odor. Don’t push the cotton swab deep into the ear canal. 


5. Flea and Tick Prevention: 


For dogs: Simperica Trio + Spot on. 


For cats: Broadline Spot-on.  


Use: Topical flea and tick treatments prevent infestations and are safe for both dogs and cats.


Application: Apply or administer once a month, following the weight-based instructions on the package.


Caution: Never use dog flea treatments on cats, as the ingredients may be toxic to them.


Source: Pixabay


Apart from these, stocking topicals like Betadine solution, Neosporin powder, Iodine or Scavon spray for cuts and scrapes are a must. Alu spray works for both cats and dogs. It’s an aerosol bandage with a coating property that protects the wound from the environment and aids in quicker healing.


When to Seek Veterinary Care: 


Consult your vet if your pet shows any of the following symptoms:

  • Persistent vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours.
  • Difficulty breathing or persistent coughing.
  • Seizures or unexplained neurological symptoms.
  • Significant changes in appetite, weight, or behavior.
  • Wounds that don't heal or worsen over time.


While these medications can help manage minor issues at home, it's essential to recognize when a problem requires professional attention. 


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ALSO READ | How Your Pet Preference Reveals Hidden Traits You Didn't Know About!

Conclusion

Having basic knowledge of safe medications for common issues in dogs and cats can provide relief in minor situations and improve your pet's quality of life. However, always err on the side of caution—never hesitate to consult your veterinarian before administering any medication to ensure your pet’s safety.

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