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Educational Articles

Cats + Medications & Supplements

  • Gentamicin topical formulations are used to treat bacterial infections. The ophthalmic formulation is used off label to treat external ear infections by topically applying the medication directly to the ear canal. Side effects may include increased redness or inflammation. If these effects occur, discontinue the medication and call your veterinarian. If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately.

  • Ginger is given by mouth and is used off label and over the counter to treat nausea, vomiting, inflammation, and other conditions. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but might include mild stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or gas. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or that have gallbladder disease. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Ginkgo is given by mouth and is used on and off label and over the counter to treat cognitive dysfunction, vascular problems, retinal disease, or breathing problems. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting, diarrhea, or skin allergic reactions. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, have a bleeding disorder, or are pregnant or nursing. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Ginseng is given by mouth and is used off label and over the counter to treat a variety of conditions including low energy, heart problems, Addison’s disease, cognitive function, and low immune system. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include diarrhea, restlessness, or increased blood pressure. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, are pregnant or are nursing. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • The easiest way to give your cat liquid medication is to mix it in with some canned food. To ensure that your cat swallows all of the medication, it is best to mix it into a small amount of canned food that you feed by hand, rather than mixing it into a full bowl of food that the cat may not completely eat.

  • Giving your cat a pill can be a challenge even for the most experienced veterinarian! The easiest way to give your cat a pill is to hide the pill in food. This usually works best if the pill is hidden in a small amount of tuna, salmon, yogurt or cream cheese.

  • Glipizide is given by mouth and is used off label to treat high blood sugar in cats with mild type 2 diabetes. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include temporary vomiting and a lack of appetite. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other sulfonamides, or in pets with trauma, infection, diabetic coma, low blood sugar, or diabetic ketoacidosis. If a negative reaction occurs, please call the veterinary office.

  • Glucosamine/chondroitin combination is a nutrient supplement that is given by mouth and is used to treat osteoarthritis and feline lower urinary tract disease. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include gastrointestinal upset. Do no use in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Glutamine is given by mouth and is used off label to treat gastrointestinal and pancreatic inflammation. It can be prescription or over the counter. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon and are not well documented in pets. Use cautiously in pets that are pregnant or nursing or have severe liver disease, severe behavior disorders, or seizures. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Griseofulvin is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat skin, hair, and nail fungal infections. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, pregnant pets, breeding males, pets that have severe liver disease, or in cats with FIV or FeLV. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.