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  • Ferrous sulfate is a nutritional supplement used in cats and dogs as an iron supplement, usually in cases of chronic blood loss or during epoetin or darbepoetin therapy. It is also used to treat iron deficiency anemia in cats and dogs.

  • To be classified as a fever of unknown origin (FUO), the body temperature must be above 103.5°F (39.7°C) for longer than a few days, with no obvious underlying cause based on history and physical examination. A fever is beneficial to the body, but if a fever remains above 106°F (41.1°C) for more than a few days several consequences occur within the body and can be life threatening. If your pet has a fever, your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination, perform diagnostic blood tests, urine culture, and possibly other diagnostic tests. Antibiotics are often prescribed. Cats that have persistent fever or a fever that waxes and wanes must undergo a thorough work-up so that the cause of fever can be discovered and treated before irreversible damage occurs.

  • Fexofenadine is a second-generation antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms and histamine-mediated conditions in cats and dogs. It is used off label in veterinary medicine. Fexofenadine comes tablet and liquid forms to be given orally.

  • Fibrocartilaginous embolus (FCE) or fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCEM) refers to a condition caused by a piece of fibrocartilaginous material thought to originate from an intervertebral disc, lodging in an artery or vein, causing decreased blood flow to an area of the spinal cord. Confirmatory diagnosis requires MRI. Treatment is primarily supportive.

  • Fight wounds often result in infections that can become serious if left untreated. Punctures from bites seal over quickly, trapping bacteria under the skin. If your cat is bitten, it is important to be seen by a veterinarian for treatment as soon as possible.

  • Reliable, correct information is essential for making informed decisions on your pet’s care and health needs. The best source of information is always your veterinarian, but if you’re looking online, this handout discusses how to find trustworthy sources of information.

  • Fine needle aspiration is a useful tool to collect samples for cytology and is often used to diagnose abnormal lumps on your pet's body as well as evaluation of fluid samples and tissue surfaces. It is relatively simple and inexpensive but can provide a lot of information. Depending on results, further tests may be indicated to best help your pet.

  • Fipronil is used topically to treat flea, tick, and chewing lice infestations. Side effects are uncommon but may include skin irritation at the application site. Do not use this product on pets less than 8 weeks old, geriatric pets, or sick/weak pets.

  • Fipronil with dinotefuran and pyriproxyfen, topical (brand name Catego® for cats), is a medication used to treat and control fleas, ticks, and chewing lice in cats and kittens 8 weeks of age and older and weighing at least 0.7 kg (1.5 lb). Fipronil with dinotefuran and pyriproxyfen comes in topical, spot-on forms.

  • Fipronil with etofenprox and s-methoprene, topical (brand name Frontline® Tritak for cats), is a medication used to treat and control fleas, ticks, and chewing lice in cats and kittens 12 weeks of age and older. Avoid use in rabbits and other small mammals.