How To Choose Insulin Pen Needles For Dogs and Cats

Insulin pens are a popular and convenient method for giving insulin to dogs and cats with diabetes. Insulin pens are a device that holds multiple doses of insulin inside of a chamber and can be reused. The bottom end has a numbered dial that is twisted for the desired dose (units) and then pressed down like an ink pen to release the insulin. Pen needles are specifically designed to attach and detach from the top of the pen for each injection. Many dog and cat owners prefer the insulin pens over the traditional method of drawing insulin out of a vial with a needle and syringe because they feel the pens are easier they are easier to handle and get a more accurate dosing. Pen needles are required for giving injections with insulin pens, but they come in different types and it can be tricky to know the difference.

What is the difference between Pen Needles?

UltiCare Pen Needles at VetRxDirect

Pen Needles Now Available

The size of a needle is usually measured by gauge and length. The gauge number (g) describes how thick a needle is. The higher the gauge number, the thinner the needle is. For example, a 32g needle is thinner than a 29g needle. Thinner needles can be more comfortable for injection, while thicker needles are more durable. The length of the pen needle is measured in millimeters or inches and is usually chosen by personal preference and the thickness of the skin of the dog or cat being injected. Your veterinarian can help you decide the best type of pen needle to choose for giving insulin injections. 

The UltiCare Pen Needles come in 29g, 31g, 32g, and 1/2 inch, 5/16 in, and 5/32 inch sizes. They are universal and made to fit most insulin pens. Designed for injection comfort, each pen needle features a triple beveled tip, polished barrel, and silicone lubrication. They come packaged with a dual purpose storage and built-in sharps container so you can safely and easily dispose of the needles after each use.

Have you ever used an insulin pen to help manage your dog or cat’s diabetes?

Probiotics and Prebiotics For Dogs and Cats

Probiotics are a source of the beneficial microbes or bacteria that help replace and boost those existing in the gastrointestinal tract. Probiotics can promote healthy intestinal function and manage diarrhea or irregularity. Both people and animals alike have natural microbes or “flora” that naturally live on the lining of their intestines. These are types of bacterias and yeasts that help digest and absorb nutrients from food and defend against “bad” bacteria from taking up residence. Keeping a healthy balance of good bacteria in the gut is not only important for proper digestion but also for the immune system. They help protect the body against illness and disease. The natural flora is fragile and can easily be diminished by medications like antibiotics or painkillers, poor diet, disease or stress. This can make your dog or cat susceptible to digestive upsets like diarrhea, gas, and cramping. Providing a probiotic supplement to your dog or cat can help replace the damaged bacteria and keep a healthy balance. They can also improve the digestive process by breaking down nutrients in the diet so they can easily be absorbed and used by the body.

Advita Probiotic for Dogs and Cats

Advita is a blend of multiple probiotic bacteria and a prebiotic to help facilitate the growth of good bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. It also has vitamins A, C, and E. It may help regulate stools and appetite. It comes in flavored powder and paste for dogs and cats. The Advita cat formula contains Taurine.

 

 

Proviable Probiotic at VetRxDirectProviable features beneficial bacteria and yeast probiotics to help firm stool and reduce diarrhea caused by intestinal upset and restore digestive balance. It also contains prebiotics, which help feed and encourage the growth of the probiotics. Proviable comes in sprinkle capsules and flavored paste formulas for dogs and cats.

 

Proflora Probiotic For Dogs at VetRxDirectProflora contains 9 strains of beneficial microorganisms to support healthy digestion and absorption. Proflora maintains the natural balance of GI bacteria and may help reduce digestive problems. Promotes a healthy skin, coat, and immune system. Powder formula for dogs and cats as well as tasty soft chews for dogs.

 

 

Probios Intelliflora Probiotic at VetRxDirectProbios Intelliflora is for dogs and cats and contains lactic acid bacteria. It helps balance and replace the natural bacteria (flora) in their digestive system, and maintain stool consistency. It is useful during diet changes, times of stress, kenneling, or traveling and can also be used after antibiotic therapy, deworming, and digestive disorders.

 

Profivex Probiotic at VetRxDirect

Profivex powder for dogs and cats is made with five types of probiotics and two types of prebiotics for gastrointestinal health. It contains sweet potato as a source of dietary fiber. Flavored with real pork liver. Made without grains, corn, soy, wheat, artificial ingredients, or preservatives.

 

 

FortiFlora Probiotic for Dogs and Cats Available at VetRxDirectFortiflora contains a special strain of probiotics for dogs and cats. It helps replenish and balance the good bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. FortiFlora also has a high level of antioxidants which help support the immune system and protect against disease.

 

 

Like any supplement, always consult your veterinarian before using probiotics and always follow their specific directions. Has your pet’s veterinarian prescribed probiotics? Which brand did you try? Was it helpful?

 

Keep Halloween Safe For Your Pets

When it comes to Halloween most of us enjoy taking part in the frightening activities. Whether it’s dressing up in costume, decorating the house, or enjoying the trick-or-treaters, it is important to remember your pet. Halloween festivities can expose your pet to a number of potential hazards and may be a stressful time for them. Here are some ways to keep Halloween safe and fun for you and your furry family.

Tricks But No Treats

Giving out candy to trick-or-treaters is a popular and fun tradition, and it is tempting to snatch some of the treats for ourselves. Be sure to keep Halloween candy out of reach from pets, as they will also be drawn to the sweet smell and taste, and it can be dangerous. Chocolate is one of the most popular, but also one of the most dangerous. Chocolate contains methylxanthines which are chemicals that are toxic to both cats and dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and more severe symptoms. Watch out for candy wrappers, which can be a choking hazard or possibly cause a bowel obstruction.

Things That Glow

Glowsticks are popular with kids, but cats find them especially fun play with and may bite and puncture them. The liquid in most glowsticks is non-toxic but it does have a bitter taste, which can cause pain and irritation in the mouth of your pet, and cause them to drool and be uncomfortable. Be cautious with candles and jack-o-lanterns, they can cause burns and a fire hazard if tipped over from curious pets.

All Dressed Up

Costumes can be fun for the whole family. If you are planning on dressing up your best bud, ensure that the costume fits well and isn’t going to slip and tangle them up. Check to see that it does not have any small pieces that could be ingested or cause a hazard if chewed on. Make sure your pet is comfortable in a costume, and watch them at all times while they are wearing it.

Have Fun, But Keep Calm

Loud noises, groups of visitors in costumes, and other spooky activities may be stressful for your pet and make them feel anxious or fearful. If you suspect your pet is feeling nervous or is known to have stress, keep them in a separate quiet part of the house. You may also talk with your veterinarian about calming options for pets with anxiety.

Cobalequin and Vitamin B12 Supplements For Dogs and Cats

 

Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that plays an important role in within the body of dogs and cats, including the function of the brain and nervous system, cell growth, protein synthesis, metabolism of fat and carbohydrates, and the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B12, which is also called cobalamin, is not made by the body and must be supplied by food or nutritional supplements. Having a lack of B12 can lead to other health problems, and both dogs and cats can develop a deficiency of this vitamin. In certain breeds, B12 deficiency in dogs can be genetically passed on, especially in beagles, border collies, and giant schnauzers. B12 deficiency in dogs and B12 deficiency in cats can also occur with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.

 

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is a condition that prevents animals from being able to digest and absorb nutrients from food because they lack digestive enzymes in the pancreas. Animals suffering from EPI can become deficient in multiple nutrients including B12, because they can not absorb it from the food they eat. Some common signs include weight loss, anemia, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If you suspect your dog or cat has a deficiency, talk with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may use blood tests and lab work to diagnose a B12 deficiency.

B12 supplements are used to help increase and maintain vitamin levels in animals with deficiency, anemia, pancreatic insufficiency, and other conditions. They may be given as a one-time treatment by your veterinarian or prescribed as a routine supplement to help maintain your pet’s levels. You should always talk with your vet before using a new supplement or medication.

Cobalequin

Cobalequin for Dogs and Cats at VetRxDirect

Cobalequin for Dogs and Cobalequin for Cats

Cobalequin is a supplement for dogs and cats that contains cobalamin, a form of vitamin B12. It helps increase and maintain levels of  B12 and replace nutrients missing from your dog or cat’s regular diet.  Cobalequin helps increase levels of vitamin B12 in those animals with deficiency and may be given as a regular dietary supplement. Cobalequin comes in a tasty, chicken-flavored chewable tablet making it easy to give. Available in two sizes: Cobalequin for Cats and Small Dogs, and Cobalequin for Dogs Medium and Large.

 

 

 

Vitamin B12 Injections

Vitamin B12 Injection for Dogs and Cats

Vitamin B12 Injection for Cats and Dogs

This is a prescription injectable for dogs and cats that contains cyanocobalamin, a man-made form of Vitamin B12. Injections are typically given in the muscle or under the skin.  B12 njections for dogs and cats are typically prescribed to help treat B12 deficiency, anemia, pancreatic insufficiency, or digestive disorders.

 

 

 

 

 

Rx B12 and Rx B12 Forte

Rx B12 at VetRxDirect

Rx B12 for Dogs and Cats

Rx B12 contains cyanocobalamin, a man-made form of vitamin B12, and is a nutritional supplement for dogs and cats. Rx B12 Forte contains a higher concentration of cyanocobalamin.  It may be given to animals will illness or deficiency or to help replace nutrients missing from their diet. It comes in a flavored, palatable liquid.

 

 

 

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Flavored Clavamox Chewable For Dogs and Cats

When your cat or dog has an infection, you need to get fast, treatment to stop it from worsening or spreading. Prescription Clavamox Chewable is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that works quickly to control infection with a new tasty flavor. Clavamox contains amoxicillin, a type of penicillin-type antibiotic that works to stop the growth of bacteria. It also contains clavulanic acid, a type of medication called a beta-lactamase inhibitor, which works against bacteria that are normally resistant to amoxicillin.

Clavamox Chewable At VetRxDirect

Clavamox contains amoxicillin, a type of penicillin-type antibiotic that works to stop the growth of bacteria. It also contains clavulanic acid, a type of medication called a beta-lactamase inhibitor, which works against bacteria that are normally resistant to amoxicillin. It is used to treat types of skin and soft tissue infections in both dogs and cats including abscesses, wounds, cellulitis, and pyoderma. It also treats urinary tract infections for cats and periodontal (gum) infections for dogs.

Giving medications to your dog or cat is not always easy, and can be frustrating for both you and your pet. Clavamox Chewable tablets give owners a new option and have a tasty pork liver flavor, making them easier to give.  But don’t worry, Clavamox drops and tablets are still available at VetRxDirect. You should always talk with your veterinarian first about medications for your dog or cat.