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The lacrimal duct is part of the nasolacrimal system, a series of narrow tubes that allow tears to drain from the eye into the nose and mouth. This duct can sometimes become blocked or fail to develop properly, resulting in tears overflowing and potentially staining the face below the eye. The clinical signs, diagnosis, and treatment options for the condition are explained in this handout.
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Lactated Ringer’s solution (also known as LRS, Ringer’s Lactate) is a fluid and electrolyte (salts) replacement solution used to correct fluid and electrolyte imbalances in cats, dogs, birds, pocket pets (small mammals), and other animals. Lactated Ringer’s solution comes in injectable form, usually given subcutaneously for at home administration.
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Lactulose is used off label and is given by mouth to treat high blood ammonia levels and constipation in dogs, cats, birds, and reptiles. The most common side effects are diarrhea, bloating, gas, and abdominal cramping. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or in pets with intestinal blockage/obstruction.
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Lameness is an inability to properly use one or more limbs due to pain or weakness. The most common causes of sudden lameness in dogs are soft tissue injury (strain or sprain), injury to a joint, bone fracture, or dislocation. Your veterinarian will determine the best course of action based on your pet's condition, a detailed examination, and the results of diagnostic tests. Definitive diagnosis of the cause can be difficult. In some cases, a trial with anti-inflammatory medications and rest may be necessary.
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Laryngeal paralysis is a condition that causes dysfunction of the larynx causing reduced ability to breathe deeply and can obstruct the airway. It can be a congenital condition of young dogs or may be due to a neuromuscular disease in older dogs. Clinical signs include coughing, noisy breathing, and exercise intolerance. A definitive diagnosis is made through an examination of the larynx with an endoscope or laryngoscope. Treatment of mild cases involves environmental management to reduce any stress on the larynx and medications used for flareups. More severe or congenital cases require surgery.
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Laser surgery is a procedure that generates a beam of light energy at a specific wavelength, resulting in the cutting of tissues. There are three major advantages of laser surgery when compared to traditional stainless steel surgical scalpels, which are decreased pain, decreased inflammation, and improved tissue healing. Routine procedures such as ovariohysterectomy and castration are commonly done with laser.
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Laser surgery is a procedure that generates a beam of light energy at a specific wavelength, resulting in the cutting of tissues. There are advantages of laser surgery when compared to traditional stainless steel surgical scalpels, which are decreased pain, decreased inflammation, reduced blood loss, and improved tissue healing. Routine procedures such as ovariohysterectomy and castration are commonly done with laser.
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Latanoprost ophthalmic is applied in the eye and is used off label to treat elevated eye pressures and glaucoma. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects include a burning or stinging sensation, mild eye redness, growth of eyelashes, or color change of the iris or around the eye. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, or with eye inflammation (uveitis). If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Lead is a common household hazard for birds. Due to their curious, explorative nature, house birds can be exposed to lead around the house. Lead causes heavy metal toxicity, affecting the blood, nervous system, and gastrointestinal system. Lead poisoning can be fatal if not treated.
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Leaky gut syndrome refers to an increase in the permeability of the intestines. This condition may be caused by any significant insult to the intestines. Acute cases of leaky gut may be caused by infection, trauma, toxins, or medication overdoses. Chronic cases, in contrast, may be caused by food allergies, long-term NSAID use, or other causes. Your veterinarian will perform diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your cat’s intestinal disease and treatments will be targeted at the specific underlying disease that is causing your cat’s leaky gut.