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  • Feline miliary dermatitis is a skin condition that typically results from an underlying allergic reaction, most commonly to fleabites. An affected cat will have a very itchy rash and may lick, bite, and scratch at the affected skin, quickly progressing to small lesions with scabs on them. The offending allergen must be removed for long-term resolution.

  • Silymarin is an over-the-counter nutritional supplement that is used off-label and is given by mouth to treat liver and cancer conditions. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting or diarrhea. Do not use it in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call the veterinary office.

  • Mirtazapine (brand name: Mirataz®) is given by mouth or is applied to the skin and is used to treat weight loss in cats and is used off-label to treat inappetence, nausea, and vomiting in cats and dogs. Give as directed. The most common side effects include vocalization, restlessness, vomiting, incoordination, or trembling. Do not use it in pets that are allergic to it or that have recently used an MAOI. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinarian.

  • Miscarriage refers to the death of a fetus during pregnancy, with the most common cause being infection. It may also be caused by hormonal shifts or abnormalities. In many cases, there are no visible signs of miscarriage. If miscarriage is suspected, ultrasound is used to assess the pregnancy and determine whether the fetuses are alive. Finding a cause for the miscarriage, especially if that cause is a treatable condition, may improve outcomes in future pregnancies.

  • Miscarriage refers to the death of a fetus during pregnancy, with the most common cause being bacterial infection. Hormonal shifts or abnormalities may also cause miscarriages. In many cases, there are no visible signs of miscarriage. If miscarriage is suspected, ultrasound is used to assess the pregnancy and determine whether the fetuses are alive. Finding a cause for the miscarriage, especially if that cause is a treatable condition, may improve outcomes in future pregnancies.

  • Mites and lice can cause trouble for guinea pigs. Some mites may cause no clinical signs, while others can cause extreme signs, including itchiness, crusty skin, hair loss, and secondary bacterial skin infection. This article summarizes diagnosis and treatment.

  • Mites affecting pet hedgehogs, often called quill mites, are fairly common. Initially, an affected hedgehog may become itchy but if mites are left untreated, the clinical signs can become severe. Treatment for your hedgehog should always be under the guidance of a veterinarian.

  • Mitral valve disease is often one of the earliest indicators of heart disease that could lead to heart failure. It is more common in small dogs than large breeds. This handout discusses mitral valve disease in dogs, a degeneration of the valve between the left atrium and left ventricle. The clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and the prognosis of this condition are outlined.

  • Mole and gopher baits are often flavored to attract pests, but cats and dogs may also ingest them if given the chance. The active ingredients in these baits can cause significant illness if enough is ingested. The most common active ingredients used in mole and gopher baits are zinc phosphide and bromethalin. There is no antidote for bromethalin poisoning, so decontamination within an appropriate time is key to a good outcome.

  • Molidustat (brand name Varenzin-CAI) is a medication used to treat anemia (low red blood cell number) in cats with chronic kidney disease. Molidustat helps increase red blood cell production. It is conditionally approved for use in cats only. It comes in liquid suspension form.