Pet Health Library
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Mastiffs are mellow and many are happy just watching family ballgames from the sidelines, cheering their kids on with a wag or a woof. Some, however, might happily join in to steal the ball or play a short game.
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Mastitis is a term used to describe inflammation of a mammary gland. In most cases, mastitis is caused by a bacterial infection. Trauma to the mammary gland, or prolonged periods of milk accumulation without milk removal, can lead to inflammation within the mammary gland. Most dogs with mastitis can be treated on an outpatient basis with oral antibiotics and pain medications, though severe cases may require hospitalization or surgery.
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Meclizine (brand names Antivert®, Dramamine® Less Drowsy Formula, Bonine®, Bonamine®, Postafen®, Univert®) is an antihistamine used off label to prevent and treat motion sickness and vomiting associated with it, in cats, dogs, and other small mammals. The most common side effect is sedation and sleepiness.
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Medicinal mushrooms are given by mouth and are used over the counter (and under veterinary supervision) to supplement the treatment of cancer and other conditions. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects may include stomach upset, diarrhea, dizziness, and skin rash. Do not use in pets that are allergic to mushrooms, and use cautiously in pets that are pregnant, nursing, or have diabetes, clotting disorders, low blood pressure, immune-mediated disorders, liver problems, or kidney disease. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Medroxyprogesterone acetate is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat reproductive conditions, sexual behaviors, and certain types of dwarfism and alopecia. Give this medication as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include increased appetite, increased thirst, weight gain, sleepiness, or changes in personality. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, pets with diabetes or uterine bleeding, or prior to puberty, during pregnancy, 1-2 months after a heat cycle, or to treat false-pregnancy. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Megaesophagus is a disorder in which the esophagus dilates and loses motility. When esophageal motility is decreased or absent, food and liquid accumulate in the esophagus and have difficulty getting into the stomach. Regurgitation is the most common sign of megaesophagus. Weight loss or failure to gain weight, as well as aspiration pneumonia, are also common signs. Treatment is focused on managing the symptoms.
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Megestrol acetate is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid and is used in dogs or off label in cats to postpone the heat cycle or to treat false pregnancy. It can also be used off label in male dogs to treat prostatic hypertrophy. It should not be used in pregnant pets or pets with uterine disease, diabetes, or breast tumors.
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Melanomas are cancerous growths of the cells responsible for pigmentation of the skin. They can develop anywhere on the body but those on the toes carry the highest chance for malignancy. They may be painful and you may notice your pet licking at the affected area. Surgery is often the treatment of choice and may be followed up with radiation or chemotherapy.
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Melatonin is given by mouth or as an implant under the skin and is used to treat sleep and behavior disorders, adrenal disease, and non-allergic hair loss, to suppress the heat cycle, and to improve breeding rates. Give as directed. Side effects are not common but may include sleepiness. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Melioidosis is a bacterial infection that is typically associated with tropical regions. The bacteria that causes melioidosis, Burkholderia pseudomallei, is usually found in soil and water. The clinical signs of this condition, along with transmission, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis, are outlined in this handout.