A Guide to Vet Compounding for Pet Owners

Our pets are an important part of our lives, and as pet owners, we want to ensure that they receive the best care possible. When it comes to medication, not all pets can take standard dosage forms. In these cases, vet compounding can be a great option. But what exactly is vet compounding, and how does it work? In this guide, we’ll explore everything pet owners need to know about vet compounding.

What is Vet Compounding?

Vet compounding is the process of creating medication tailored to an individual animal’s needs. This can include adjusting the dosage, changing the form of the medication, or modifying the flavour to make it more palatable. Compounding is particularly useful for pets that are allergic or intolerant to certain ingredients or that require medication in a different form than what is typically available.

How Does Vet Compounding Work?

The process of vet compounding requires a skilled pharmacist who has undergone training and certification in compounding. The pharmacist will work with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate medication and dosage for the animal, and then create the medication in-house. This allows for greater control over the ingredients and quality of the medication and enables a more tailored treatment approach for each individual animal.

Benefits of Vet Compounding for Pets

Vet compounding offers several benefits for pets, including:
– Customization: The medication is tailored to the specific needs of the individual animal, which can enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.
– Increased Compliance: Medication that is palatable or easy to administer is more likely to be given regularly, which can improve the chances of a successful recovery.
– Avoidance of unsuitable Ingredients: Pets that are allergic or intolerant to certain ingredients can receive medications without these ingredients, reducing the risk of adverse reactions.
– Greater Availability: Some medications may be discontinued or not available in a specific dosage or form. Vet compounding enables the creation of medications that may otherwise be difficult or impossible to find.

Common Uses of Vet Compounding in Pets

Vet compounding can be used for a variety of pet-related conditions, including:
– Pain Management: Medication can be compounded in a more palatable form to make it easier for pets to take, or in a specific dosage to match the pet’s individual needs.
– Overactive Thyroid: Medication can be compounded into a cream, for application to the ear, as cats can be difficult to dose.
– Combining two or more drugs into a one-dose medication for unwilling pets.
– Unavailable medicines can be sourced and compounded for pets.
– Behaviour Modification: Medications can be compounded with added flavours to make them more palatable, which can increase acceptance (making it easier for owners) with behaviour-altering medication e.g. separation anxiety in dogs.
– Chronic Conditions: Medications can be compounded in a specific form or dosage to meet the ongoing needs of animals with chronic or long-term conditions.

Conclusion:

Compounding is a valuable option for pet owners and veterinarians to consider in certain situations. It can enhance the effectiveness of a treatment, increase compliance with less wastage, avoid allergic ingredients, and improve the chances of a successful recovery. If you think your pet may benefit from vet compounding, talk to your veterinarian and contact Point Walter Compounding Pharmacy.