Tell Tail n Aug 2017 - Oct 2017 27toxin. A drug commonly used in
dogs maybe contraindicated in cats,
or a drug commonly used in humans
maybe contraindicated in pets.
Although dogs, cats and humans
do suffer from similar diseases,
subtle differences within their
anatomy and physiology are often
the reasons we need different
drugs and/or doses.
Only a veterinarian knows the
safe quantity of any medicine to
administer to an animal. May it be
a veterinary medication or a human
one, it must not be given to your
pet without previous consent of a
veterinarian.
As responsible pet owners, you
should NOT give them medicines
you think are correct. Here are
reasons why :
Most common over-the-
counter human medications
like paracetamol, Ibuprofen,
etc.(contained in Crocin,
Combiflam,etc.) can be
exceptionally toxic to pets,
causing liver and kidney failure, and
potentially even leading to death.
Antibiotics have played a pivotal
role in saving lives by successfully
killing bacteria that can cause illness
or disease. Overuse and misuse of
antibiotics has lead to emergence
and dissemination of antibiotic
resistant bacteria, also known as
Superbugs. These bacteria are the
ones that cannot be controlled or
killed by antibiotics. They are able
to survive and even multiply in the
presence of an antibiotic. Antibiotic
resistance can be prevented by
minimising unnecessary misuse of
antibiotics and by the correct use of
prescribed antibiotics.
Many choose to give their pets
protein shakes or diet pills to make
them ‘look better’. Although dogs
and cats eat meat and require
protein, many of the proteins found
in protein shakes aren’t found in
nature, so they can actually harm
pets instead of providing additional
muscle strength or assisting in
weight loss.
Topical application of anti tick/
flea medication must be done
on the recommendation of your
veterinarian. Pets may sometimes
show allergic reactions, mild
symptoms like vomiting/diarrhoea or
sometimes even severe symptoms
like incoordination or seizures.
De-worming medication is
prescribed based on your pet’s
age and weight. If your pet receives
an overdose she may experience
lethargy, severe vomiting, excessive
drooling, shaking or even seizures.
Hence, it must be done as per
schedule and at the right dosage.The categories mentioned
above are only a few examples of
commonly misused medications.
If there are any symptoms of ill
health or injury, it is vital that you
consult your vet first. Your vet
will prescribe the drug correctly,
ensuring it doesn’t clash with any
other medication or act negatively
toward any other conditions your
pet may have. Hence, don’t take
matters into your own hands, don’t
self-medicate.— DR SHAMBHAVI SABNIS