1. Antibiotics: These medications are used to treat bacterial infections, which can be caused by bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, or Staphylococcus. Antibiotics work by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria, and they are often administered orally, through injection, or through topical application.
2. Antifungal medications: These drugs are used to treat fungal infections, which can be caused by fungi such as Candida or Aspergillus. Antifungal medications work by killing or stopping the growth of fungi, and they are often administered orally, through injection, or through topical application.
3. Antiparasitic medications: These medications are used to treat parasitic infections, which can be caused by parasites such as worms, fleas, or ticks. Antiparasitic medications work by killing or stopping the growth of parasites, and they are often administered orally, through injection, or through topical application.
4. Sedatives and anesthetics: These medications are used to calm or sedate animals during examinations, procedures, or treatments. Sedatives work by reducing anxiety and activity levels, while anesthetics work by temporarily numbing sensation or causing loss of consciousness.
5. Analgesics: These medications are used to relieve pain in animals, and they can be non-opioid (such as aspirin or ibuprofen) or opioid (such as morphine or fentanyl).
6. Vitamins and minerals: These supplements are used to ensure that animals are receiving all the essential nutrients they need for good health and proper growth.
7. Hormones: These medications are used to regulate hormone levels in animals, and they can be used for various purposes, such as contraception, fertility treatment, or hormone replacement therapy.
8. Vaccines: These medications are used to protect animals from diseases by stimulating their immune systems to produce antibodies against specific pathogens.
9. Antivenom: This medication is used to treat snake bites and is derived from the venom of the snake.
10. Antihistamines: These medications are used to relieve allergic reactions by blocking the effects of histamine, which is a chemical that causes inflammation and allergic symptoms.
The specific medications used for a particular animal will depend on its species, age, health condition, and other factors. Zoo veterinarians work closely with zookeepers and other animal care professionals to determine the best course of treatment for each animal.