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  • Hydroxyurea is given by mouth and is used off label to treat certain cancers in cats and dogs. Common side effects include bone marrow suppression, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth and stomach ulcers, loss of toenails and/or hair coat.

  • Hydroxyzine is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat allergic or itchy conditions. Give as directed. The most common side effect is sedation. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or cetirizine, or pets that have heart failure, urinary obstruction, or stomach obstruction. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Hygromas are fluid-filled, non-painful swellings that develop suddenly over a bone that sticks out (bony prominence). They are the body's reaction to repetitive trauma and usually a result of laying too frequently on hard surfaces.

  • Hypercalcemia occurs when the level of calcium in the blood is higher than normal. High calcium levels may signal the presence of serious underlying diseases including kidney failure, adrenal gland failure, a parathyroid gland tumor, and some types of cancer. Cats may have idiopathic hypercalcemia, in which no cause can be identified. Signs and testing for hypercalcemia are discussed.

  • Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated levels of lipids (fats) in the bloodstream and can be due to several causes. Often times there are no clinical signs. Hyperlipidemia is confirmed using a 12-18 hours fasting sample. The pet's medical history and a search for an underlying cause is important for its treatment. If no underlying cause is found, your pet will need to start eating a low-fat, high-fiber diets, and may be started on the appropriate medications and supplements.

  • Hyperthyroidism is a common condition in older cats caused by excess thyroid hormone release resulting in an increased metabolic state. Hyperthyroidism can cause weight loss despite a good appetite, increased water consumption and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, cardiomyopathy, and hypertension. Diagnosis is made by testing blood thyroid hormone levels. Several successful treatment options exist, including medication, thyroidectomy, radioactive iodine, and a prescription diet. The prognosis with treatment is generally good.

  • This handout discusses the concept of hypoallergenic dogs. These breeds are meant to create less allergic reactions in people that suffer from dog allergies. Humans sometimes react to the proteins found in dog saliva and dander. Precautions to take when trying to reduce your exposure to these allergens are highlighted. As well, breeds that tend to be less reactive to dog allergy sufferers are discussed.

  • Hypocalcemia means that the level of calcium in the bloodstream is low. Signs of hypocalcemia include restlessness, stiffness, weakness, irritability, muscle tremors, hypersensitivity to touch and sound, and seizures.

  • The term hypocalcemia is used when the level of calcium in the blood is lower than normal. Pets with hypocalcemia may show signs of muscle twitching, loss of appetite, weakness, and listlessness. Low calcium levels are associated with several serious disorders including antifreeze poisoning, inflammation of the pancreas, kidney failure, and parathyroid gland failure. In nursing female dogs, heavy milk production can lead to hypocalcemia and may result in seizures.

  • Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) topical is used for the management of skin conditions such as wounds, abscesses, cuts, abrasions, skin irritations, ulcers, post-surgical incision sites, and burns. It may be used to prevent or treat bacterial skin infections, including methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Hypochlorous acid also has antifungal and antiviral properties and is reported to reduce inflammation, pain, and itching.