What is it? 

During the course of every pet’s life, there will be a time when she needs medication.  In many cases, the medication is given only for a short time, like when antibiotics are used for infection.  However, if your pet develops health issues like heart disease, allergies, arthritis, or epilepsy, she may need medication for her entire life.

When used appropriately, most medications can be used safely, without ill effects.  However, all medications, even those that are natural, have side effects.  Side effects are undesired or harmful effects caused by medication.  Most occur because of individual animal sensitivities.  Side effects can be mild, like a simple stomach upset, or they can be life-threatening.   Either way, they should be taken seriously and reported to your veterinarian at first notice.

How does it work?

Most veterinary clinics will give the pet owner a checklist before seeing the pet for an annual physical examination or before surgery. One of the common questions on this list is a questions asking for the names and types of medication the pet is receiving. It is very important to list all medication, even vitamins, supplements, or natural products. This will give your veterinarian full knowledge of the medications your pet uses.  This is especially true if you visit more than one veterinarian since the information will not be shared between the clinics.

If your pet is on multiple medications, you may want to place them in a plastic bag and bring them with you to your pet’s examination. 

When your pet is prescribed medication, your veterinarian will give you details of potential side effects and make sure you are alert to them.  For example, if your pet is prescribed insulin for diabetes, your veterinarian will spend time with you making sure you know to watch for signs that there is a problem.  In diabetes, the blood glucose level is unusually high and insulin is used to decrease the glucose level.  Sometimes a pet may have low blood sugar, as a side effect of insulin, and they will appear weak, wobbly, and dull.  Your veterinarian will work with you to make sure that you know exactly what problems to look for and what to do if problems arise.

How can you monitor medication?

You should always read the medication’s package instructions and the product insert.  The package insert is an accompanying piece of information, which will normally be packed in the drug package and lists the contraindications and known side effects. 

Product inserts are often overlooked by pet owners, but are very important to read completely before administering any medication. Not only do they give you information about potential problems, they will also give you advice on how to give the medication and who to contact if there is a problem. 

If the medication your pet is prescribed does not come with a product insert, you can ask your veterinarian for a detailed product information sheet that you can read before giving the medication to your pet. 

You can also make sure to ask your veterinarian details about the product before using it.  Below are questions that you should ask your veterinarian before giving your pet medication: 

·       What is this medication for?

·       What are the side effects of this medication?

·       Are there any medications or food that need to be avoided while my pet is on the medication?

·       What signs should I look for in my pet to know if there is a problem?

·       How often do I give the medication?

Benefits of Medication Monitoring

If your pet is on a medication and develops a problem, the sooner you realize that there is an issue the better for your pet.  If you suspect your pet is having a reaction to a medication, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.  She may recommend discontinuing the medication or switching to another type of drug.