One of the newest drugs available to combat cat arthritis and bone damage is Duralactin. Feline patients with arthritis have weakened bones and joints, and Duralactin can help to repair and restore those injured or inflamed areas of the body. Duralactin contains a hormone called microlactin, which was developed from hyperimmunized cows. Because Duralactin is classified as a nutritional supplement, it is not necessary that you obtain a veterinary prescription in order to obtain it for your cat.
Contents of Duralactin
Duralactin is a milk-based product that is derived from cows. It is available over-the-counter as a nutritional supplement, and is most effective for use in combating feline joint problems and bone deterioration when combined with other drugs. Due to the fact that arthritis and other common causes of bone damage are chronic conditions, powerful anti-inflammatory prescription drugs are not always appropriate for treatment. Over the course of many months or years, these drugs can build up in your pet's system and may reach toxic levels. Otherwise, these medicines tend to have side effects that may outweigh their benefits when used for a prolonged period of time.
Side Effects of Duralactin
As a nutritional supplement, Duralactin does not have any documented standing with the FDA. Most users find that it presents little by way of negative effects in cats. It is a milk-based substance, however, and cow's milk tends to be high in fat in comparison with many of the foods that cats normally ingest. The richness of milk can lead to stomach upset, diarrhea and vomiting as well as other indigestion in certain cats. Typically, these side effects occur when the cat ingests a moderate to large quantity of milk, and Duralactin may be provided in small doses.
In order to prevent these side effects from occurring in your cat, you can take two precautionary measures. First, before beginning a treatment program including Duralactin, give your cat a small amount of regular cow's milk to drink. Monitor your pet over the next days for signs of indigestion or other negative reactions. If your cat does not respond well to regular milk, consider avoiding Duralactin and opting instead for another medicine to treat his injuries or conditions. If he responds well, proceed with caution by giving him a small dose of Duralactin as indicated by the manufacturer.
The second precaution that you can take to prevent your cat from becoming sick from drinking Duralactin is to ensure that he does not have free access to the medicine. Many cats like the taste of this medicine, and if your pet can access the supplement he may end up ingesting too much at one point in time. If this is the case, call a veterinarian immediately.
Duralactin has minimal side effects, though some pets may experience an allergic reaction different from the standard reactions listed above. If your pet displays any abnormal behavior or physical symptoms shortly after ingesting Duralactin, discontinue use of the supplement immediately and have your pet examined by a vet.