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Pet Health Library

Cats + Medications & Supplements

  • Toceranib phosphate is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat mast cell tumors and other cancers in cats and dogs. Common side effects include diarrhea, decreased or lack of appetite, lameness, or weight loss.

  • Topical Corticosteroids are medications applied to the skin that come in many forms such as creams, ointments, shampoos and sprays, and are used to treat itchiness and inflammation. Side effects may include irritation at the application site, and with long-term use can include thin skin, skin bumps, and blackheads. Use this medication with caution in pregnant pets or in pets with skin tuberculosis. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.

  • Topical omega-3 fatty acids are found in various skin support products for pets to promote a healthy skin and coat in dogs, cats, small mammals, and horses. These products, such as Dermoscent® Atop 7®, are often used in combination with omega-6 fatty acids to enhance overall health and reduce inflammation. They can also help decrease itching associated with certain skin diseases.

  • Tramadol is a synthetic opioid given by mouth in the form of a tablet, capsule, or compounded liquid, and is used off label to treat pain. Common side effects include sedation, gastrointestinal upset, or agitation. It should not be used in pets that are hypersensitive to opioids, and should be used cautiously in geriatric, sick, or pets with seizures. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.

  • Transdermal means the application of a medicine or drug through the skin, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. Relatively few drugs are currently available for transdermal application. The biggest risk with a transdermal medication is that it could be insufficiently absorbed, resulting in inadequate drug levels and treatment. The inside of the outer ear flap (not inside the ear canal) is an excellent area to apply transdermal medications. After you have administered the medication, try to distract your pet from scratching or rubbing the ear for a few minutes by feeding your pet, taking your pet for a walk, or playing together immediately afterward. If your pet is prescribed a transdermal medication patch, your veterinarian will often shave an area to affix the patch.

  • Trazodone oral tablets are commonly used off label to treat short-term anxieties or as an adjunctive treatment for behavioral disorders in dogs and cats. Side effects may include sedation, behavior changes, vomiting, and priapism. Patients with heart, kidney, or liver disease or closed angle glaucoma should use this medication with caution.

  • Triamcinolone acetonide is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off label in dogs, cats, and horses to treat Addison’s disease, inflammatory conditions, and immune-mediated diseases, among others. Give as directed.

  • Triamcinolone acetonide otic is a corticosteroid used to treat inflammation in the ears of cats and dogs. It may be specially compounded and/or combined into a formulation with other medications. Its use may be off label depending on product formulation and species. Triamcinolone otic comes in liquid drops, ointment, cream, and gel forms.

  • Triamcinolone acetonide topical (brand names Genesis®, Vetalog®, others) is a corticosteroid used to treat itching, skin irritation, and rashes in dogs. It may be specially compounded and/or combined into a formulation with other medications. It is used off label in other species. Triamcinolone topical comes in cream and spray forms.

  • Trifluridine is an antiviral topical medication used to treat viral infections of the eye, such as herpesvirus-1 in cats. Give as directed. Side effects include eye irritation. Do not use in pets with an allergy to this medication. If a negative reaction occurs, please call the veterinary office.