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Educational Articles

  • Clarithromycin is given by mouth and used off label to treat certain bacterial infections in several animal species. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other macrolide antibiotics, in rabbits, gerbils, guinea pigs, hamsters, or horses greater than four months old.

  • Cholangitis/cholangiohepatitis in cats refers to inflammation of the bile duct or a combination of inflammation of the bile duct, gallbladder, and surrounding liver tissue. The clinical signs, diagnosis, treatments, and prognosis of the conditions are outlined in this handout.

  • Choline is a vitamin supplement given by mouth and is used over the counter to treat neurological conditions such as seizures or cognitive dysfunction. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include hyperactivity. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Chondrosarcomas arise from cartilage, which is a connective tissue primarily found where bones meet with joints, as well as at other locations in the body such as the nasal cavity, and ribs. Chondrosarcoma is a rare tumor in cats, but it can occur. Clinical signs of chondrosarcoma may vary significantly, depending on where the tumor arises. Although the mass may grow rapidly, less than 20% of feline chondrosarcoma cases metastasize to other parts of the body. Therefore, surgical removal is curative in many cases.

  • Veterinarians generally agree that there is no single best food for all dogs or all cats. Our pets are individuals: some will prefer dry kibble, while others will prefer wet or canned food. Pet owners may also have preferences related to cost, convenience of shopping, and how a particular pet food manufacturer conducts their business. This handout briefly outlines key aspects of selecting the most appropriate food and water for your dog or cat.

  • Chromium picolinate is given by mouth and is used off label to aid in the treatment of obesity and diabetes, mostly in cats. Side effects are uncommon, but watch for increased drinking or urination, or decreased appetite. Do not give to pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Chronic bronchitis is a long-term inflammatory condition that affects the pulmonary or respiratory system. This condition is irreversible and is slowly progressive.

  • Chronic kidney disease (once called chronic kidney failure) is mainly a problem in mature and senior cats (seven years and older). Unfortunately, once the kidneys are damaged, they have minimal ability to recover. However, with proper management, most CKD cases progress very slowly. This handout describes the clinical signs of the condition, along with causes, diagnosis, treatment, and nutritional management.

  • Chronic upper respiratory tract disease in cats results from inflammation of any part of the upper respiratory tract. Many conditions contribute to this. Treatment is based on the underlying cause.

  • Chylothorax is a life-threatening condition caused by chyle leaking out of the thoracic duct into the chest cavity, causing lung compression and the inability of the lungs to fill with air. This occurs more commonly in purebred cats. The causes, diagnostics, treatments, and prognosis are explained in this handout.