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  • Diphenhydramine topical (brand name Benasoothe®) is an antihistamine with some local anesthetic properties. It is used to relieve itching and skin irritation in dogs, cats, and other animals. Diphenhydramine topical comes in a variety of forms, which may be specially compounded.

  • Diphenoxylate + atropine (brand name Lomotil) is an opioid combination medication used to treat diarrhea or coughing in dogs and diarrhea in cats. Its use in cats is not generally recommended. Diphenoxylate + atropine is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid. This article discusses administration, potential side effects, risks, and monitoring.

  • Dipyrone (Zimeta®) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used in horses to treat fever. It may also be used off-label for the treatment of pain in dogs and cats, as well as cattle and rabbits.

  • DNA is a large, complex molecule that carries the genetic information or “code” of an organism. All common forms of life carry a copy of their own genetic code in each of their cells, and each organism has a unique section of DNA that is just like a fingerprint. DNA-PCR is often used to detect the presence of infectious organisms.

  • Just like people, your cat can mourn when there has been a loss in their world, and the symptoms are similar. There are ways that you can help, with some guidance from your veterinarian or a behaviorist if needed.

  • Cats are not completely color blind, as they can see yellow and blue, as well as shades of gray. Their eye structure allows them to see better in dim light compared to people. Near-sightedness is common among cats.

  • Docusate (Docusate Sodium Bloat Preparation, DSS, Dioctynate®, Pet-Enema®, Enema SA®, Docu-Soft®, Anti Gaz, Bloat Eze, Bloat Go, Bloat Release, Bloat Treatment, Bloat-Lax) is a laxative medication used to soften dry or hard stools and assist with constipation and bloating in animals. It is prescribed for use in dogs, cats, horses, cattle, goats, sheep, and rabbits, but is not recommended for reptiles due to potential fatalities.

  • When a tooth is broken with the pulp exposed, there are only two choices for treatment: root canal therapy or extraction. Root canal therapy involves removing the pulp from the center of an injured tooth, sterilizing the canal, and replacing the removed pulp with dental materials; this prevents bacteria from penetrating the center of the tooth. Root canal therapy is less invasive than extraction but requires advanced training and specialized equipment.

  • Dolasetron is used in dogs and cats to treat nausea and vomiting. It is often used in pets receiving chemotherapy, in which nausea and vomiting is a common side effect. It is generally well tolerated, but pets with certain heart rhythm abnormalities should not use this drug.

  • Dorzolamide (brand names: Trusopt®, Cosopt®) is an antiglaucoma medication used off label in cats, dogs, and horses to treat increased eye pressure (ocular hypertension). Dorzolamide is given in the form of a liquid drop applied directly to the eye.