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  • Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative used to treat short term constipation in cats and dogs. It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Bisacodyl comes in tablets to be given orally.

  • Bismuth compounds (brand names: Pepto-Bismol®, Equi-Phar®, Gastrocote®, Kaopectate®, others) are antidiarrheal and stomach protectants used to treat diarrhea and infections caused by the bacteria Helicobacter in dogs, cats, and other animals.

  • Bites wounds are one of the most common reasons that dogs need emergency veterinary appointments, and they can cause significant injury to the skin and soft tissues. Even a bite that does not break the skin can cause crushing or bruising injuries to the underlying soft tissues. If your dog has been in a fight with another animal, notify your veterinarian immediately.

  • Birds may bite for many reasons; learning to recognize warning signs can help prevent this behavior. Screaming in birds is a natural way for birds to communicate with each other, but it could also be a health issue. This handout outlines how to understand and address these behaviors in birds.

  • Black and green teas are made from the leaves and buds of the tea plant, Camellia sinensis. Black tea is made from green tea leaves that have oxidized. Green and black tea is given by mouth, over the counter, and is used off label to treat cancers and inflammation. Give as directed by your veterinarian.

  • Rabbits and guinea pigs commonly present symptoms related to the urinary system. At home, the owner may notice urine collecting in the hair on the inside of the rear legs, a more pungent smell to the urine, the pet straining to urinate, or hematuria (bloody urine). After a proper physical exam and a thorough palpation of the urinary bladder, the veterinarian may identify bladder stones (a firm, oval hard mass in the bladder) or "bladder sludge" in rabbits (a bladder filled with a grainy, sand-like material). X-rays of the abdomen allow the veterinarian to identify the type of bladder disease and/or the number of stones.

  • Bladder stones are rock-like formations of minerals that develop in the urinary bladder. All stones form because of disease or inflammation in the bladder. The most common signs in cats are bloody urine and straining to urinate. X-rays (with or without contrast dyes) or ultrasound may be necessary for diagnosis. The fastest way to remove bladder stones is via a surgical procedure called a cystotomy. Special diets or passing a catheter may be successful for some bladder stones. Your veterinarian will advise you of the best course of action for your cat's situation.

  • Bladder stones are rock-like formations of minerals that develop in the urinary bladder. The most common signs in dogs are bloody urine and straining to urinate. Bladder stones can develop within a few weeks, or they may take months to form. Most are visible on X-rays or an ultrasonic bladder examination. There are three main treatment options for bladder stones: surgical removal, non-surgical removal by urohydropropulsion, or dietary dissolution. Prevention is possible in some cases, depending on the chemical composition of the stones.

  • Dogs appear to be more susceptible to blastomycosis than many other species. The blastomycosis fungus targets the respiratory tract, although it may spread throughout the entire body. Cytology and/or histopathology are required to diagnose blastomycosis conclusively.

  • Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid) can affect one or both eyes. The affected eyelid will usually be red, swollen, and itchy. Any condition that can cause irritation of the eyelids can lead to blepharitis. The numerous potential causes of this condition, along with the clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis are outlined in this handout.