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Small Mammals + English

  • Methimazole (brand names Tapazole®, Felimazole®, Felanorm®) is an antithyroid medication used to treat hyperthyroidism in cats. It is given by mouth or applied topically to the skin. Common side effects include vomiting, anorexia, and tiredness, but more severe side effects are possible. It is contraindicated in pregnant or nursing pets, as well as in cats with autoimmune disease, liver or kidney disease, and/or blood and clotting diseases.

  • Metoclopramide (brand names Reglan® and Maxolon®) is used off label in dogs, cats, and small mammals to stimulate movement in the stomach and upper small intestines to prevent esophageal reflux. In cats and dogs, it is used in the treatment or prevention of vomiting, and also to induce milk let-down and to promote milk production.

  • Metronidazole (brand name Flagyl®) is used off label in the treatment of certain infections, such as those caused by Giardia and Trichomonas, in dogs, cats, small mammals, birds, reptiles, and other animals. It is often used to treat diarrhea and other intestinal problems.

  • Metyrapone is an adrenal enzyme blocking drug mainly used to treat cats with hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease). It is most useful as a short-term treatment to stabilize cats with Cushing's disease before surgery. It may also be used in ferrets and hamsters.

  • Miconazole otic is an antifungal medication used to treat external ear infections caused by fungal organisms in cats, dogs, and other animals. It may be specially compounded or combined into a formulation with other medications. Miconazole otic comes in ointment or liquid drop suspension forms.

  • Midazolam is a benzodiazepine used for its sedative, antianxiety, and muscle relaxant properties. It is primarily used as a sedative before surgery and to stop seizures. This medication is a controlled substance. It is given by injection by your veterinary team, though may be prescribed for intranasal or intrarectal administration at home.

  • Mites and lice can cause trouble for guinea pigs. Some mites may cause no clinical signs, while others can cause extreme signs, including itchiness, crusty skin, hair loss, and secondary bacterial skin infection. This article summarizes diagnosis and treatment.

  • Mites affecting pet hedgehogs, often called quill mites, are fairly common. Initially, an affected hedgehog may become itchy but if mites are left untreated, the clinical signs can become severe.

  • Moxidectin + imidacloprid topical (Advantage Multi, Imoxi) is used to prevent heartworms and treat intestinal parasites (hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms) and to treat and prevent fleas in cats, dogs, and ferrets (Advantage Multi only). In dogs this combination product is also approved to treat sarcoptic mange and treat circulating heartworm microfilaria (immature heartworms); in cats it may also be used to treat ear mites.

  • Mupirocin otic, also known as pseudomonic acid A, is an antibiotic used to treat ear infections. It is used off label (extra label) in animals. Mupirocin comes in ointment or liquid drop suspension forms.