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Background: : Veterinary knowledge regarding feline heartworm has been increasing significantly over the past two decades. Necropsy surveys of shelter cats have shown feline adult heartworm infection prevalence to be 5–20% of the rate in unprotected dogs; however, other studies have shown feline heartworm antibody prevalence up to 33%, reflecting higher exposure rates and potential immature adult infections. Thus, the true prevalence of feline heartworm infection is likely underestimated due to the limitations of current diagnostic techniques, inadequate testing protocols, and the high likelihood of cats exhibiting transient clinical signs or dying without confirmation of infection. Diagnosing Feline Heartworm Disease (FHWD), also referred to as Heartworm Associated Respiratory Disease (HARD), is one of the conundrums of veterinary medicine. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and characterize the occurrence of Heartworm Associated Respiratory Disease [HARD] in shelter cats, naturally-infected with D.immitis. Methods: Fifty shelter cats slated for euthanasia between December 2009 and June 2010 were investigated by gross necropsy, radiography, serology, and lung histopathology using techniques that have been established in experimental models of cat heartworm infection. The relationship between pulmonary vascular disease and serological markers for heartworm was also examined using correlations and statistical modeling. Serology included standard heartworm antigen test and a commonly used heartworm antibody test. Also included were heat-treated heartworm antigen test and two additional heartworm antibody tests previously evaluated on experimentally-infected cats. Results: None of the cats were heartworm antibody (HW Ab) positive on a commonly used HW Ab test used by many reference laboratories even though 20% of the study cats were heartworm antigen (HW Ag) positive on heat-treated samples. Two additional HW Ab test were positive on 26% and 22% of the study cats. The combination of heat-treated HW Ag, HW Ab tests, and histopathology indicated 34% of the study cats had HARD. Conclusions: Utilizing both, the above tests, and thoracic radiographs, enhanced the ability to predict vascular disease, possibly caused by infection with immature and adult heartworms and supported the premise that cats develop heartworm disease at the same rate as dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have demonstrated that fidaxomicin, a macrocyclic lactone antibiotic used to treat recurrent Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea, also displays potent in vitro bactericidal activity against Clostridium perfringens strains isolated from humans. However, to date, there is no data on the susceptibility to fidaxomicin of C. perfringens strains of animal origin. On the other hand, although combination therapy has become popular in human and veterinary medicine, limited data are available on the effects of antibiotic combinations on C. perfringens. We studied the in vitro response of 21 C. perfringens strains obtained from dogs and cats to fidaxomicin and combinations of fidaxomicin with six other antibiotics. Results: When tested by an agar dilution method, fidaxomicin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranged between 0.004 and 0.032 µg/ml. Moreover, the results of Etest-based combination assays revealed that the incorporation of fidaxomicin into the test medium at a concentration equivalent to half the MIC significantly increased the susceptibility of isolates to metronidazole and erythromycin in 71.4% and 61.9% of the strains, respectively, and the susceptibility to clindamycin, imipenem, levofloxacin, and vancomycin in 42.9–52.4% of the strains. In contrast, ¼ × MIC concentrations of fidaxomicin did not have any effect on levofloxacin and vancomycin MICs and only enhanced the effects of clindamycin, erythromycin, imipenem, and metronidazole in ≤ 23.8% of the tested strains. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate that fidaxomicin is highly effective against C. perfringens strains of canine and feline origin. Although fidaxomicin is currently considered a critically important antimicrobial that has not yet been licensed for veterinary use, we consider that the results reported in this paper provide useful baseline data to track the possible emergence of fidaxomicin resistant strains of C. perfringens in the veterinary setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Cutaneous wounds in cats are a common problem in veterinary practice as well as their therapy. Wound healing is a physiological process mediated by numerous growth factors that are successively released in order to restore the integrity of the skin. A longer time needed for wound healing in cats entails an increased risk of complications as well as higher total therapy costs. Ozone, used as a therapeutic complementary with regenerative properties, has begun to have wider applicability in veterinary medicine. Thus, the aim of this study was to clinically assess this as a therapeutic element in supporting cutaneous wound second-intention healing in cats. According to our knowledge, this is the first preliminary controlled study of its kind in cats. Support and management of second-intention wound healing involves frequent dressing changes having different properties. Dressings can range from simple ones, such as nonadherent dressings, to more complex options, such as foam, hydrocolloid, alginate or negative pressure dressings. Seven cats were enrolled in the study with a total of nine wounds of various sizes with different etiology sizes and localizations. Three methods of local ozone administration were used to cover more of the ozone properties in the treatment of wounds: bagging, perilesional subcutaneous infiltrations and lavages with ozonated saline. Evaluation of the healing process was performed by clinical observation and wound area measurements every seven days until the complete recovery of the patients. The results of this study should encourage clinicians to consider medical ozone as a new therapeutic approach with regenerative properties in the second-intention healing of cats presenting cutaneous wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thyroid nodules are common in older cats and are mostly benign; however, carcinomas may occur infrequently. In cats, thyroid carcinomas tend to be highly metastatic. The role of 18F‐2‐deoxy‐2‐fluoro‐D‐glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) in human thyroid carcinoma has been well established. However, guidelines have not yet been established for veterinary medicine. Metastasis assessment has typically been performed using CT in veterinary medicine; however, it is poorly sensitive in detecting regional lymph nodes or distant metastases if these lesions are not abnormally contrast‐enhanced, enlarged or cause overt mass effects. This case suggested that FDG PET/CT may be used for staging feline thyroid carcinoma, and the results contributed to treatment recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hand-sewn intestinal resection and anastomosis are commonly performed in veterinary medicine. The outcome of the hand-sewn side-to-side anastomosis (SSA) technique has never been described and compared to other techniques in dogs and cats. Aim: The study aims to describe the side-to-side hand-sewn anastomosis technique in small animals and to compare it with the end-to-end technique. Methods: A retrospective evaluation of the clinical records of dogs and cats that underwent enterectomy between 2000 and 2020 and were treated with side-to-side or end-to-end anastomosis (EEA) was performed. Results: Of the 52 dogs and 16 cats included in the study, 19 dogs and 6 cats received an SSA, and the remaining received an EEA. No intraoperative complication was reported. However, short-term complication rates were comparable, and mortality rates in the EEA group were higher. At the same time, stenosis was a frequent complication of SSA and was never reported following EEA. Conclusion: End-to-end technique remains the gold standard for hand-sewn intestinal anastomosis in small animals. However, SSA can be considered for selected cases with acceptable morbidity and mortality rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen in veterinary medicine. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is highly preferred today as a valid method for molecular typing of bacterial pathogens due to its high discriminatory power and characterization efficiency. This study describes the WGS-based characterization of an MRSP strain named HMKU-VET-MRSP-2020 from a case of cat otitis externa in Türkiye. The strain was classified as MLST sequence type 71 and SCCmec type IIIA. WGS analysis indicated the presence of several antimicrobial resistance genes and mutations consistent with the resistance phenotype. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the strain was clusterized with the isolates from dog clinical cases previously reported from different countries of Europe and one human isolate from the USA. The study is the first report on the isolation and molecular characterization of MRSP from a cat in Türkiye and provides insights into the zoonotic potential of this microorganism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cats presenting with upper urinary tract uroliths (UUTUs) and ureteral obstruction ("obstructive UUTU") are typically younger than cats with idiopathic CKD that often have incidental nephroliths. Hypothesis: Cats with upper urinary tract urolith have 2 clinical phenotypes; a more aggressive phenotype at risk of obstructive UUTU at a young age and a more benign phenotype in older cats, with reduced risk of obstructive UUTU. Objectives: Identify risk factors for UUTU and for obstructive UUTU. Animals: Eleven thousand four hundred thirty‐one cats were referred for care over 10 years; 521 (4.6%) with UUTU. Methods: Retrospective VetCompass observational cross‐sectional study. Multivariable logistic regression models were performed to identify risk factors for a diagnosis of UUTU vs no UUTU and additionally, obstructive UUTU vs nonobstructive UUTU. Results: Risk factors for UUTU included female sex (odds ratio [OR] 1.6, confidence interval [CI] 1.3‐1.9; P <.001), British shorthair, Burmese, Persian, Ragdoll or Tonkinese (vs non‐purebred ORs 1.92‐3.31; P <.001) breed and being ≥4 years (ORs 2.1‐3.9; P <.001). Risk factors for obstructive UUTU were female sex (OR 1.8, CI 1.2‐2.6; P =.002), having bilateral uroliths (OR 2.0, CI 1.4‐2.9; P =.002) and age, with the odds of obstructive UUTU increasing as age at diagnosis of UUTU decreased (≥12 years, reference category; 8‐11.9 years, OR 2.7, CI 1.6‐4.5; 4‐7.9 years, OR 4.1, CI 2.5‐7.0; 0‐3.9 years, OR 4.3, CI 2.2‐8.6; P < 0.001). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Cats diagnosed with UUTU at a younger age have a more aggressive phenotype with higher risk of obstructive UUTU compared to cats over 12 years of age diagnosed with UUTU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gum elastic bougie (GEB) is an airway management device for patients who are difficult to intubate and its use has been reported in human medicine. However, to our knowledge, no reports in veterinary medicine have described oxygenation using GEB. We describe a case in which GEB was used to maintain oxygenation in a cat with severe upper airway stenosis. Case Description: A 10-year-old neutered male domestic shorthair cat was diagnosed with a laryngeal tumor with severe upper airway stenosis. During anesthesia induction, the normal laryngeal structure could not be confirmed; orotracheal intubation was difficult, resulting in a "cannot intubate, cannot oxygenate" status. The GEB was inserted, making it possible to oxygenate the cat until a permanent tracheostoma could be created, but hypoventilation was noted. Conclusion: Although GEB are not useful for proper ventilation, they can be useful for temporary oxygenation in veterinary medicine when airway management is difficult. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Therapeutic ultrasound (TU) is used in sport and companion animals to treat diseases and injuries affecting tendons, ligaments, muscles, joints, and bones. Usually, there are 2–6 treatment sessions weekly for up to 4 weeks. The scientific evidence for the treatment has been questioned. We have therefore performed a systemic review of the scientific literature on TU used in dogs, horses, donkeys, and cats. The review shows that there is insufficient scientific evidence for favourable effects in conditions affecting tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints in these species. The studies have been few and most of them involve only a small number of animals. Many studies also have methodological problems with compromised study quality. When beneficial results are reported, they have not been repeated in independent studies. Favourable effects on bone healing have, however, been reported in experiments where bone fractures have been created surgically in dogs. There is also scientific evidence that TU treatment of testicles in dogs and cats arrests the production of sperm, indicating that it may be used for contraception. The favourable effects on bone healing and the conceptive effects need to be confirmed in high-quality clinical trials. Background: To explore the scientific evidence for therapeutic ultrasound (TU), we conducted a systematic review of the literature on TU in dogs, horses, donkeys, and cats. Methods: In three major databases, relevant articles published in 1980–2020 were identified. The risk of bias in each article was evaluated. Results: Twenty-four relevant articles on the effects of TU in dogs, nine in horses, two in donkeys, and one in cats were identified. TU usually involved 2–6 treatments weekly for up to 4 weeks. Articles on tendon, ligament, and bone healing, acute aseptic arthritis, osteoarthritis, paraparesis, hindquarter weakness, and back muscle pain were identified. In experimental bone lesions in dogs, there is moderate scientific evidence for enhanced healing. For the treatment of other musculoskeletal conditions, the scientific evidence is insufficient due to the high risk of bias. There is substantial evidence that continuous TU increases tissue temperature in muscles and tendons by up to 5 °C in healthy animals. For disorders in tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints in sport and companion animals, there is insufficient evidence for the clinical effects of TU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Three species of Leishmania cause disease in humans in Israel and are endemic in the Middle East: Leishmania infantum, Leishmania tropica and Leishmania major. These species infect dogs and cats, but little is known about their prevalence in pet populations and their clinical manifestations. A study on dog and cat Leishmania infection was conducted in a focus of human L. tropica infection in central Israel with the aim of getting insight on leishmaniosis in pets in an area where human infection is highly prevalent. Methods: Blood, demographic and clinical data were collected from dogs and cats brought for veterinary care in a focus of human L. tropica infection during 2018–2020. kDNA PCR and internal transcribed spacer1 high-resolution melt analysis PCR (ITS1 HRM PCR) with DNA sequencing were performed for the detection of Leishmania and species determination. Results: Forty-three of 189 dogs (22.8%) and 44 of 152 cats (28.9%) were positive for Leishmania spp. infection by kDNA PCR. The ITS1 HRM PCR detected six dogs (3.3%) infected with L. infantum and one (0.5%) with L. tropica, whereas six cats (3.9%) were found infected by L. infantum and five (3.3%) by L. tropica. Four of the five L. tropica-positive cats suffered from weight loss, four had azotemia, two with mild and two with severe azotemia and progressive renal disease. Three cats had gingivostomatitis; three had skin lesions with abscess and ulcers in two and scales and hair loss in another cat, which was also FIV +. This is the first report of feline L. tropica infection in Israel. Clinical information on cats with this infection from previous studies elsewhere is scarce. Conclusions: A high rate of Leishmania spp. infection, mostly estimated as sub-clinical, was found in dogs and cats admitted for veterinary care in an L. tropica focus. Among the animals in which infection could be characterized to the species level, more dogs were infected with L. infantum than with L. tropica while 5 of 11 cats were infected with L. tropica and had signs of systemic and skin disease not described before in feline L. tropica infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Relapsing fever borreliosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria of the genus Borrelia, inflicting recurrent episodes of fever and spirochetemia in humans. Borrelia persica, the causative agent of relapsing fever in Israel, is prevalent over a broad geographic area that extends from India to Egypt. It is transmitted by the soft tick Ornithodoros tholozani and causes disease in humans as well as domestic cats and dogs. The goal of this study was to survey domestic dogs and cats in Israel for infection with B. persica. Methods: Blood, sera and demographic and clinical data were collected from dogs and cats brought for veterinary care in central Israel. PCR followed by DNA sequencing was used to detect B. persica DNA in blood samples, and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect antibodies reactive with B. persica antigens in sera from the same animals. This is the first serological survey of B. persica in dogs and the first survey for antibodies reactive with a relapsing fever Borrelia sp. in cats globally. Results: Four of the 208 dogs (1.9%) and three of 103 cats (2.9%) sampled were positive by PCR for B. persica DNA, and 24 dogs (11.5%) and 18 cats (17.5%) were seropositive for B. persica antigen by ELISA. The ratio between PCR-positivity and seropositivity in both the dog and cat populations was 1:6. All four PCR-positive dogs and two of three PCR-positive cats were seronegative, suggesting a probable recent infection. Thrombocytopenia showed significant association with seropositivity in dogs (P = 0.003). In cats, anemia had a significant association with seropositivity (P = 0.0001), and thrombocytopenia was associated with the combined prevalence of seropositivity or PCR-positivity (P = 0.022). Conclusions: Borrelia persica infection is more prevalent and widespread in domestic canine and feline populations in Israel than previously thought. Dogs and cats may play a role as reservoirs and sentinels for human infection. Precautions should be taken to prevent transfusion-transmitted infection between blood donor and recipient animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronaviruses (CoVs) are major human and animal pathogens and antiviral drugs are pursued as a complementary strategy, chiefly if vaccines are not available. Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal systemic disease of felids caused by FIP virus (FIPV), a virulent pathotype of feline enteric coronavirus (FeCoV). Some antiviral drugs active on FIPV have been identified, but they are not available in veterinary medicine. ERDRP-0519 (ERDRP) is a non-nucleoside inhibitor, targeting viral RNA polymerase, effective against morbilliviruses in vitro and in vivo. Results: The antiviral efficacy of ERDRP against a type II FIPV was evaluated in vitro in Crandell Reese Feline Kidney (CRFK) cells. ERDRP significantly inhibited replication of FIPV in a dose-dependent manner. Viral infectivity was decreased by up to 3.00 logarithms in cell cultures whilst viral load, estimated by quantification of nucleic acids, was reduced by nearly 3.11 logaritms. Conclusions: These findings confirm that ERDRP is highly effective against a CoV. Experiments will be necessary to assess whether ERDRP is suitable for treatment of FIPV in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In veterinary medicine, wounds have a high incidence in clinical practice. A technique that can accelerate healing has been extensively studied, and the treatment with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is currently recognized as one of the best adjuvant treatments in this matter. Aim: The main objective of this pilot clinical study was to assess the therapeutic effect of HBOT in severe wounds classified according to the Modified Vancouver Scale (MVS) between 10 and 15 points or greater than 15 points (MVS > 10 and ≤ 15; MVS > 15). Methods: A study population of 41 patients was divided into the dog group and the cat group and were treated at Lisbon Animal Rehabilitation and Regeneration Center, with 100% oxygen and 2.4 atmospheres absolute for 90 minutes. The patients' wounds were assessed using the MVS at the time of admission, in the first 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours after HBOT, and at the time of medical release. This study also sought to assess if HBOT is a safe therapy in small animal clinical practices by monitoring the major side effects (SEM) and minor side effects (SEm) observed throughout each session. Results: The results obtained showed that HBOT allowed a decrease in the MVS classification. Conclusion: The results suggested that HBOT may be an interesting complementary therapy to be prescribed in wounds that present difficulty in healing. Furthermore, it was considered a safe therapy since in 289 sessions of HBOT, no SEM was observed, and as for SEm, the highest incidence was the act of swallowing. However, more studies should be carried out with HBOT in small animal clinical practices to confirm these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two veterinary personnel in Japan were infected with severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) while handling a sick cat. Whole-genome sequences of SFTSV isolated from the personnel and the cat were 100% identical. These results identified a nosocomial outbreak of SFTSV infection in an animal hospital without a tick as a vector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The material of this case report was consisted of a 5-year-old female British Shorthair cat brought to Harran University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine with complaints of weakness, loss of appetite and stupor for a few days. The physical examination revealed prolonged capillary refilling time (5 sec), pallor and icteric mucous membranes, low body temperature (37.2 °C), hyperpnea (64 breath per minute) and bradycardia (96 beats per minute). In the haemogram, anemia (3.4 M/mm³ ) with decreased haematoctrit (17.6 %), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (2 pg), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (3.9 g/dl), platelet (35 m/mm³ ) and haemoglobin (0.7 g/dl) along with severe leucocytosis (50.2 m/mm³ ); in microscopic examination of blood smear, hemotropic mycoplasmas were determined. After the treatment involving tetracycline (10 mg / kg twice a day, oral), prednisolone (1 mg / kg twice a day, oral) and iron preparations (50 mg / kg once a day, intramuscular) administrations, clinical symptoms disappeared and hemogram parameters returned to normal reference range. This report is the first case of hemotropic mycoplasmosis identified in a cat in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Turkey, and as a result of diagnostic methods and treatment protocol performed in the case, it was concluded that hemotropic mycoplasma should be considered in the etiology of diseases associated with anemia and icterus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cats have been a popular species of animals as companion animals and their health awareness has become an important issue among both veterinarians and owners. Septicaemia is one of the most important disease in both human and veterinary medicine. This article describes a retrospective study involving septicaemia cases among cats between 2006 and 2016 presented to the Post-mortem Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia. Some of the common microorganisms causing septicaemia in these cats include Escherichia coli (41%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (14%), Rhodococcus equi (13%) Streptococcus sp. (11%), Staphylococcus sp. (9%), Pasteurella sp. (8%), Salmonella sp. (2.4%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (1.6%). Respiratory tract was observed as the most common point of entry of microorganisms leading to septicaemia in cats albeit statistically insignificant (34.7%, P>0.05). These septicaemic cases were highly associated with risk factors such as underlying infection (55.6%), stress (18.5%), malnutrition (18.5%), tumour (5.6%) and traumatic injury (16.9%). Further analysis revealed that underlying viral infection predominates compared to bacterial and parasitic infections. Septicaemia is an important health problem among cats and different agents are associated with different point of entries. The association and the relationship between the aetiological agents, points of entry, and risk factors were further discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Microscopic evaluation of urine is inconsistently performed in veterinary clinics. The IDEXX SediVue Dx® Urine Sediment Analyzer (SediVue) recently was introduced for automated analysis of canine and feline urine and may facilitate performance of urinalyses in practice. Objective: Compare the performance of the SediVue with manual microscopy for detecting clinically relevant numbers of cells and 2 crystal types. Samples Five‐hundred thirty urine samples (82% canine, 18% feline). Methods: For SediVue analysis (software versions [SW] 1.0.0.0 and 1.0.1.3), uncentrifuged urine was pipetted into a cartridge. Images were captured and processed using a convolutional neural network algorithm. For manual microscopy, urine was centrifuged to obtain sediment. To determine sensitivity and specificity of the SediVue compared with manual microscopy, thresholds were set at ≥5/high power field (hpf) for red blood cells (RBC) and white blood cells (WBC) and ≥1/hpf for squamous epithelial cells (sqEPI), non‐squamous epithelial cells (nsEPI), struvite crystals (STR), and calcium oxalate dihydrate crystals (CaOx Di). Results: The sensitivity of the SediVue (SW1.0.1.3) was 85%‐90% for the detection of RBC, WBC, and STR; 75% for CaOx Di; 71% for nsEPI; and 33% for sqEPI. Specificity was 99% for sqEPI and CaOx Di; 87%‐90% for RBC, WBC, and nsEPI; and 84% for STR. Compared to SW1.0.0.0, SW1.0.1.3 had increased sensitivity but decreased specificity. Performance was similar for canine versus feline and fresh versus stored urine samples. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The SediVue exhibits good agreement with manual microscopy for the detection of most formed elements evaluated, but improvement is needed for epithelial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sectional anatomy of a cat head is essential when interpreting CTs and MRIs of the region. In learning the sectional anatomy, sectioned images of a cat could be quite effective data. The main objective was to assist veterinary physicians who learn the sectional anatomy of a cat head by presenting high-quality sectioned images. A short-haired female cat was frozen and sectioned frontally using a cryomacrotome. Every sectioned surface in real body color was photographed with a digital camera. The frontal planes were stacked to produce dorsal and sagittal planes. High-quality sectioned images of a cat head allowed the identification of small, complicated structures. The notable structures were as follows: each bone of the cranium, structures of the brain, tympanic cavity (larger than human), oval window (larger than human), vestibular nerve, cochlear nerve, ear ossicles, six extraocular muscles, pupil (larger than human), retractor bulbi muscle (not found in human), optic nerve, olfactory bulb (considerably large), vomeronasal organ duct (not found in human), infraorbital gland (not found in human), masticatory muscles (larger than human), maxillary nerve (larger than human), and mandibular nerve. This pacesetting report describes the detailed head structures of a cat from the viewpoint of sectional anatomy. The sectioned images will be given to other interested researchers free of charge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Poisoning cases are a challenge for the veterinary practitioner, since many agents can be involved. The incomplete patient history associated with advanced poisoning stage often leads to death. Since lacking information is common, it is essential to be aware of principal poisoning agents and their associated symptomatology. The aim of this study is to describe the major agents involved in small animal poisoning, the causative agent, poisoning route, time to search veterinary care, clinical signs and ancillary tests of canine and feline patients treated at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital from January 2010 to June 2016. Materials, Methods & Results: Forty-four medical records with poisoning history were found and reviewed, but only 30 medical records had complete data to be evaluated. There were 24 dogs and 6 cats, 17 female and 13 male. Six females were spayed. Poisoning agent identification was possible in 29 cases and was food, molluscicide, cleaning product, ornamental plants, medication, rodenticide and antiparasitic drugs. Fourteen poisonings were caused by the owner and 16 were accidental. There was a higher poisoning incidence in dogs than cats. Most of the patients were young and unneutered/unspayed. Discussion: In this study there was a higher poisoning prevalence in dogs than cats, as occurred in other studies published in Europe, Belgium, France, Greece, Italy, Spain, Austria and other Brazilian regions. Most of the patients were young, which is in agreement with previous studies in which young animals were more affected. Domestic antiparasitic drugs were the most common poisoning agents (33%), as reported in studies from France and Spain. In southern Brazil, the most common poisoning agent was medication, whereas in southeast Brazil, organophosphates were the most prevalent poisoning agent. Considering this, the geographic localisation seems to influence the poisoning agent. It is known that many owners give unprescribed medication to their pets and this also happened in this study, as 46% of the poisoning cases were caused by the owner. The most common clinical signs were gastrointestinal (76%, emesis and anorexia) and neurological (63%, depression). This is in agreement with another study that showed a high number of patients poisoned by medications leading to severe gastrointestinal clinical signs. Despite a history of eating spiced food, our food-poisoned patient did not show clinical signs compatible with pepper poisoning. In fact, clinical signs were more compatible with salt or onion and garlic poisoning, but there was no history to support that our patient had eaten these foods. The patient who ate fern and busy Lizzie (Impatiens walleriana) did not show clinical signs compatible with these agents but showed gastrointestinal clinical signs that could have occurred due to plant indigestion. This fact emphasises the need for more studies in this area. One dog with rodenticide poisoning presented with normal blood test results, but the blood sample was collected a few hours after exposure. This can occur after brodifacoum poisoning, which has a longer half-life than warfarin. In brodifacoum poisoning cases, clinical signs can appear days after exposure. In one dog, it was not possible to indentify the poisoning agent and this specific patient case exemplifies the challenge to diagnose the exact poisoning agent and concomitant diseases when the history is incomplete. This retrospective study shows the heterogeneity of the causative agents and the associated symptomatology, which highlights the need for further studies in this area. In this study, antiparasitic drugs were the most common poisoning agents, especially pyrethroids. Dogs were more affected than cats. Most of the patients were young and unneutered/unsprayed, indicating these characteristics could be a risk factor in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allergies need not only affect humans; this multifactorial and complex disease can also affect animals. Comparative allergology investigates the many similarities between the pathogenesis, clinics, diagnosis, and therapy of the disorders in humans and pet animals. In contrast to human allergy research, the veterinary field lacks access to a central database, which means there are no cohort studies published. This limits not only the research on breed and regional differences in allergies, but also further studies on the impact of gender in allergies of domestic animals. Moreover, domestic cats, dogs and male horses are castrated in most cases, which neutralises any effects of sexual hormones. In this review article a few interesting findings regarding gender aspects in companion animals were extracted from current literature. In summary, there is a lack of data on gender effects on allergies in cats, dogs or horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leishmaniosis caused by Leishmania infantum is one of the most important vector-borne diseases affecting animals and humans worldwide. Dogs are considered main reservoirs of the zoonotic forms, though in the last years the role of cats as reservoirs has been increasingly investigated. Feline leishmaniosis (FeL) occurs in endemic areas and no specific preventive measures have been investigated so far. In this study the efficacy of a 10% imidacloprid/4.5% flumethrin polymer matrix collar, licensed for tick and flea prevention, has been assessed against FeL in a longitudinal study on 204 privately owned cats from the Aeolian islands (Sicily), an area highly endemic for the disease. From March to May 2015 [Study Day 0 (SD 0)], cats negative for FeL were collared (G1, n = 104) or left untreated (G2, n = 100). Diagnosis consisted of serology and qPCR on blood and conjunctival swabs, which were collected at baseline (SD 0) and at the end of the study (SD 360). Interim clinical examinations were performed on SD 210 (when collars were replaced in G1) and SD 270. Results: Of the 159 cats which completed the study, 5 in G1 and 20 in G2 were positive for L. infantum infection, in at least one of the diagnostic tests leading to a yearly crude incidence of 6.3% and 25.0% in G1 and G2, respectively (P = 0.0026). This translates into an efficacy of the collar of 75.0% in preventing feline Leishmania infection. The collar was generally well tolerated with no systemic adverse reactions and few local skin reactions were observed in the application area in four out of 104 treated cats (3.8%). Conclusions: The 10% imidacloprid/4.5% flumethrin collar significantly reduced the risk of L. infantum infection in cats. To our knowledge, this is the first study in which a preventative strategy against feline Leishmania infection is assessed under natural conditions. These findings close a gap in veterinary medicine, in that they confirm this collar as a tool in reducing the risk of Leishmania infection in cats. Such a preventative tool could contribute to the reduction of the risk of the disease in animal and in human populations when included in integrated leishmaniosis control programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is among the most common feline congenital heart malformations. Although usually treated by pulmonary artery banding or pharmacotherapy, neither method is curative. Curative procedures have been performed in humans. Treatment of VSD is usually not required in dogs and cats, but is necessary in cases of non-restrictive VSD. Dogs with non-restrictive VSD are treated either using surgical correction under open-heart surgery, or percutaneous insertion of an occluder under interventional radiation. In our experience, neither method alone is appropriate for treating ventricular septal defect in cats with non-restrictive VSDs. We have applied a hybrid surgical method in a 13-month-old, female Maine Coon cat weighing 3.5 kg. A catheter was inserted and an occluder placed directly at the defect through thoracotomy. This method is less invasive than open-heart surgery and requires no special equipment, using direct puncture of the heart to minimize the distance to the defect and improving maneuverability. By combining the advantages of both surgical defect closure and occlusion guided by interventional ultrasound, treatment that could not be performed with either method alone became possible. In this case, the VSD could not be embolized, but some important points were suggested regarding surgical treatment of VSD in cats. One is that a sizing balloon catheter may be the most accurate method to measure VSD in cats. Amplatzer occlusion of a large non-restrictive VSD in a cat is currently not an option, but the described hybrid technique may still be an option for smaller non-restrictive VSDs. However, criteria and adjustments must be considered carefully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common in dogs and cats and is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Serum creatinine is the most commonly utilized marker for renal function, but is neither sensitive nor specific for early detection of renal injury. Therefore, there is a need for sensitive renal biomarkers that will facilitate the diagnosis of early kidney injury. Early detection of AKI will enable timely intervention and thus is expected to improve the outcome. Renal biomarkers may also aid in assessing the severity of the disease, indicate repair processes and predict the outcome. It is unlikely though, that a single biomarker will provide all this information,but rather an array of biomarkers will have to be used. This paper reviews the main biomarkers currently under investigation in veterinary medicine, including their advantages and limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Femoral fractures in cats are treated using pin and wires, lag screws, Rush pins, intramedullary threaded pins, interlocking pins, clamp rod internal fixators, and plates or plate-rods. In this study, 14 cats brought to the surgery clinic between the years 2010 and 2015 for fracture, due to either a road traffic accident or falling from a height, were evaluated. Following clinical and radiological examination of the cases, the type and location of the fracture, details of the applied fixation method, and postoperative clinical and radiological results were assessed. Localization of the fractures was as follows: 4 comminuted diaphyseal (1 segmental), 6 comminuted distal, and 4 uncomplicated distal transversal fractures. All fractures were closed. Following intramedullary positioning of the pins, rigid stabilization was observed in the fracture line. In the case of the segmental fracture, better stabilization was achieved when the medullary canal was completely filled. The patients were able to use their extremities 3-5 days after surgery and started walking normally from postoperative day 10. Functional healing was seen to improve gradually. Radiographic examination revealed sufficient calli to have formed between days 32 and 44. Complete healing and return to function with no complications was recorded in all the cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 14 year old, 6 kg, domestic short hair, spayed female cat was presented with bilateral uveitis, iris bombe, glaucoma, and blindness. Conventional treatment did not resolve the glaucoma, thus a bilateral enucleation was scheduled. Methadone was administered intravenously for anesthetic premedication, and anesthesia was induced with etomidate and midazolam given intravenously to effect, and maintained with isoflurane in 100% oxygen. Atropine was administered intramuscularly after induction. Preoperatively, a peribulbar anesthesia with 9 mg of bupivacaine 0.5% diluted with 1.8 mL of saline 0.9% was performed on the left eye, and a retrobulbar anesthesia with 2.5 mg of bupivacaine 0.5% diluted with 0.5 mL of saline 0.9% was performed on the right eye. During enucleation of the left eye, the cat did not move, and had low isoflurane vaporizer settings; however, during surgery of the right eye, the cat moved several times, and required higher isoflurane vaporizer settings, and additional methadone. After extubation the cat did not react to manual pressure on the left eye incision, but moved its head when the right eye incision was touched. Postoperative analgesia was provided with methadone. The cat recovered uneventfully, and had an increase in appetite several hours after surgery. The administration of peribulbar anesthesia was more likely to decrease inhalant requirements, and provide postoperative analgesia of the incision site. Additional research is indicated to investigate whether peribulbar anesthesia is preferable in cases of feline enucleation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Little information is available about the clinical presentation and response to treatment of cats with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency ( EPI). Objectives To describe the signalment, clinical signs, concurrent diseases, and response to treatment of cats with EPI. Animals One hundred and fifty cats with EPI. Methods Retrospective case series. Results Questionnaires were sent to 261 veterinarians, and 150 (57%) were returned with data suitable for statistical analysis. The median age of the cats with EPI was 7.7 years. The median body condition score was 3 of 9. Ninety-two of 119 cats (77%) had hypocobalaminemia, and 56 of 119 cats (47%) had increased and 6 of 119 cats (5%) had decreased serum folate concentrations. Clinical signs included weight loss (91%), unformed feces (62%), poor hair coat (50%), anorexia (45%), increased appetite (42%), lethargy (40%), watery diarrhea (28%), and vomiting (19%). Eighty-seven cats (58%) had concurrent diseases. Treatment response was reported to be good in 60%, partial in 27%, and poor in 13% of 121 cats. Trypsin-like immunoreactivity <4 μg/L was associated with a positive response to treatment ( OR, 3.2; 95% CI, 1.5-7.0; P = .004). Also, cobalamin supplementation improved the response to treatment ( OR, 3.0; 95% CI, 1.4-6.6; P = .006). Conclusions and Clinical Importance Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in cats often has a different clinical presentation than in dogs. The age range for EPI in cats is wide, and many cats can be ≤5 years of age. Most cats respond well to appropriate treatment for EPI, and cobalamin supplementation appears to be necessary for a good response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Canada, surveys of enteric parasites in dogs and cats have been reported sporadically over the past 40 years, mostly focusing on a specific region. The present work was performed to determine the current prevalence of various parasites in fecal samples from shelter dogs and cats across the Canadian provinces. Methods: A total of 1086 dog and 636 cat fecal samples from 26 shelters were analysed using a sugar solution double centrifugal flotation technique. Prevalences (national, regional, provincial, age and parasite-specific), were calculated and compared using the Fisher-Exact test. A multiplex PCR was performed to distinguish Taenia spp, Echinococcus granulosus and E. multilocularis on samples positive for taeniid eggs. Results: Overall, 33.9% of dogs and 31.8% of cats were positive for at least one parasite. Toxocara canis and T. cati were the most prevalent parasite present in fecal samples followed by Cystoisospora spp. Prevalence in dogs was similar across the Atlantic, East, West and Pacific regions, while prevalence in cats varied regionally. Eggs of E. granulosus/E. canadensis were detected in samples from dogs from BC, AB, and ON. Conclusions: Data from this study will help in the development of strategies, based on the level of risk per geographic location for the prevention and response to these parasites in pets and free-roaming and shelter animals in Canada. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Quality of life ( QOL) is an important consideration in healthcare decision-making for pets with cancer. To determine the effect of disease and treatment on pet QOL, this important variable should be objectively measured as an outcome in veterinary cancer studies. Objectives To determine the prevalence and methodology of QOL measurement in a sample of recently published reports of prospective studies evaluating cancer treatments in client-owned dogs and cats; to characterize reporting of QOL outcomes and to identify article characteristics associated with QOL measurement. Methods English-language reports of prospective studies of cancer treatments in dogs and cats published from 2008 to 2013 were identified using medical research databases combined with a hand-searching strategy. Data pertaining to general article characteristics and QOL measurement were abstracted and summarized. Results Reports of 144 eligible studies were identified. QOL was measured in 16 (11.1%) studies, with 8 (5.6%) reporting the results. All studies that measured QOL reported using unvalidated instruments, or did not report how QOL was assessed. Only 1 study provided sufficient information for QOL measurements to be replicated. Recently published articles (2011-2013) were significantly more likely to report measuring QOL, compared with earlier articles. Conclusions Quality of life of pets undergoing cancer treatment is largely unreported and cannot be meaningfully compared across treatments or disease states using the existing literature. Reliable, validated instruments are needed to facilitate the measurement and comparison of pet QOL in veterinary cancer research. Consistent reporting practices could improve transparency and interpretation of QOL results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence of chronic kidney disease is underestimated in both human and veterinary medicine. Glomerular filtration rate ( GFR) is considered the gold standard for evaluating kidney function. However, GFR assessment is time-consuming and labor-intensive and therefore not routinely used in practice. The commonly used indirect GFR markers, serum creatinine (sCr) and urea, are not sufficiently sensitive or specific to detect early renal dysfunction. Serum cystatin C (sCysC), a proteinase inhibitor, has most of the properties required for an endogenous GFR marker. In human medicine, numerous studies have evaluated its potential use as a GFR marker in several populations. In veterinary medicine, this marker is gaining interest. The measurement is easy, which makes it an interesting parameter for clinical use. This review summarizes current knowledge about cystatin C (CysC) in humans, dogs, and cats, including its history, assays, relationship with GFR, and biological and clinical variations in both human and veterinary medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New curative therapies for severe liver disease are urgently needed in both the human and veterinary clinic. It is important to find new treatment modalities which aim to compensate for the loss of parenchymal tissue and to repopulate the liver with healthy hepatocytes. A prime focus in regenerative medicine of the liver is the use of adult liver stem cells, or hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs), for functional recovery of liver disease. This review describes recent developments in HPC research in dog and cat and compares these findings to experimental rodent studies and human pathology. Specifically, the role of HPCs in liver regeneration, key components of the HPC niche, and HPC activation in specific types of canine and feline liver disease will be reviewed. Finally, the potential applications of HPCs in regenerative medicine of the liver are discussed and a potential role is suggested for dogs as first target species for HPC-based trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case report aims to clinically and radiologically describe a case of feline pectus excavatum and to evaluate the treatment results. An 8-month-old female cat weighing 3.2 kg was presented to the Surgery Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Adnan Menderes University with respiratory distress. Following radiographic and clinical examinations, the condition was diagnosed as pectus excavatum. Surgical correction was performed using a U-shaped external splint. Post-operative thoracic radiography showed that the concavity of the sternum was reduced. The splint was removed five weeks post-surgery. Two months after surgery, the cat was clinically normal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pet dogs and cats in the USA are commonly exposed to potentially hazardous substances found in domestic environments. Requests for assistance and advice received by the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory regarding exposures in dogs and cats to substances perceived by their caretakers to be potentially harmful included 1,616 phone calls, over a 3-year period covering 2009-2012. Enquiries occurred more often during summer. Dogs were involved in 84.7 % of calls and cats in 15.3 %. Oral exposures were reported in 95.5 % of calls, dermal exposures in 3.7 % of calls, inhalation exposures in 0.6 % of calls, and parenteral exposures in 0.2 % of calls. Therapeutic drugs were the most frequently reported substances, accounting for 35.4 % of calls, followed by household chemicals (15.5 %); foods (14.8 %); pesticides (13.9 %); plants (12 %), industrial chemicals and fertilizers (3.6 %); cosmetics and personal care products (2.8 %); and animal, insect, and microorganism toxins (2.1 %). Although requests for information or assistance are not a measure of poisoning incidence, it can provide insight regarding relative exposure rates, help to identify changing exposure trends and emerging exposures, and reflect the public concern regarding actual or apparent harmful exposures in pets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to observe the effectiveness of treatment with radical pinnectomy and investigate postoperative relapse cases in pinnal squamous cell carcinoma in cats. Twelve cats which were brought to surgery clinic of Istanbul University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine were used. Biopsies were taken from the cases in which squamous cell carcinoma was suspected following anamnesis and the clinical examination of patients that were brought to our clinic. The patients were diagnosed on the basis of histopathological analysis of biopsy samples. Haemogram and biochemical blood analysis were performed and thoracic radiographs were taken as routine in cases that a decision was made to operate. After the area was prepared for operation radical pinnectomy or total external acoustic canal ablation along with radical pinnectomy were performed in the patients that were eligible for operation. Relapses seen in the postoperative period were re-operated with the techniques selected according to invasion status. Periodic controls of the patients were made after the operations and the cats were examined for relapse. In seven out of 12 cases, only squamous cell carcinoma; in three cases, actinic dermatitis actinic dermatitis in addition to squamous cell carcinoma, and in two cases, only actinic dermatitis lesions were detected. In the postoperative period, relapse was observed in the cases in which the squamous cell carcinoma lesion reached the lower half of the pinna or the external acoustic canal while relapse was not observed in cases with actinic dermatitis lesions or when the squamous cell carcinoma lesion was on the top part of the pinna. Relapse cases were re-operated using different operative techniques. It is concluded that performing radical pinnectomy on actinic dermatitis lesions detected on the pinna before development into squamous cell carcinoma, and removing the tumour according to its localization with radical pinnectomy or total external acoustic canal ablation alongside radical pinnectomy is the most reliable treatment option in terms of relapse in cases of pinnal squamous cell carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recombinant human thyrotropin (rhTSH) was developed after bovine thyrotropin ( bTSH) was no longer commercially available. It was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) as an aid to diagnostic follow-up of differentiated thyroid carcinoma in humans and for thyroid remnant ablation with radioiodine. In addition, rhTSH is used in human medicine to evaluate thyroid reserve capacity and to enhance radioiodine uptake in patients with metastatic thyroid cancer and multinodular goiter. Likewise, rhTSH has been used in veterinary medicine over the last decade. The most important veterinary use of rhTSH is thyroidal functional reserve testing for the diagnosis of canine hypothyroidism. Recent pilot studies performed at Ghent University in Belgium have investigated the use of rhTSH to optimize radioiodine treatment of canine thyroid carcinoma and feline hyperthyroidism. Radioiodine treatment optimization may allow a decreased therapeutic dosage of radioiodine and thus may improve radioprotection. This review outlines the current uses of rhTSH in human and veterinary medicine, emphasizing research performed in dogs and cats, as well as potential future applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunochromatography (ICGA), reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and hematological assays were performed on blood samples of 90 cats (45 healthy or control ones and 45 sick or case ones) in Tehran, Iran, as a case-control study from June 2009 through February 2010. Prevalence of FeLV in this population was 1.1% and 2. 2% as determined by immunochromatography and RT-PCR assays, respectively. Factors that were significantly associated with positive results in RT-PCR method were pale mucous membrane (P=0.026) and rhinitis (P= 0.002), which were more prevalent in FeLV-positive cats. The size of population of the household was found to be a predictor for FeLV infection, and the relative risk of FeLV infection in cats kept in multicat households is 6.6 times higher in comparison with single housed cats. The most common clinical findings in control group were gingivitis and/or stomatitis (37.8%), skin lesions (8.9%), lymphadenopathy and pale mucous membrane (6.7%), and the most frequent hematological findings were decreased PCV (24.4%), lymphopenia and decreased hemoglobin level (20%), leukocytosis and neutrophilia (13.3%). In the case group, the most common clinical findings were gingivitis and/or stomatitis (77.8%), pale mucous membrane (53.3%) and skin lesions (37.8%), and the most frequent hematological findings were lymphopenia (37.8%), anemia (26.7%), decreased Hb (24.4%) and leukopenia (1 5.6%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary and secondary neoplasia of dogs and cats may assume several different forms. Clinical signs are varied, and are manifest in accordance with the diseased tissue. The present article aims to review clinical and pathophysiologic aspects of frequent neoplasms that affect by the eye and the adnexal ocular structures of dogs and cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 12-year-old domestic short-haired cat was referred for evaluation of periocular masses. The tail had similar masses and was amputated previously by the referring veterinarian. On examination, multiple pigmented nodules, 3-15 mm in diameter, were found in the periocular skin, primarily involving the palpebral eyelid margin. A wedge excisional biopsy revealed small cuboidal cells forming multiple tubular and cystic structures indicative of apocrine cystadenomas, similar to apocrine hidrocystomas described in humans. The nodules were lanced followed by liquid nitrogen cryofreezing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penile urethral obstruction in cats is a commonly seen clinical case in veterinary medicine practice. In cases where there is no response to catheterisation or medical intervention, surgery is needed to enable urination and correct uraemia and hyperkalaemia. Several surgical techniques of urethrostomy have been described for this aim. In performing standard prepucial urethrostomy great care must be taken to minimise leakage in the anastomosis site and promote healing when performing the pelvic urethra and prepucial mucosa anastomosis. To achieve this, the line of anastomosis has been reinforced by covering the anastomosis with the bilateral bulbourethral tissue, m. ischiourethralis and m. ischiocavernosus using simple mattress sutures. This modification, which varies from the technique performed by Yeh and Şaroglu, has been termed the coating technique. Advantages of this new technique over standard perineal urethrostomy are discussed. This technique was used in the treatment of 55 cats with penile urethra obstruction presented to our clinic. Among them 52 cats showed uncomplicated recovery. Following anastomosis, a male dog urethral catheter with an outer diameter of 2.6 mm was placed in each patient. In order to avoid infection, the catheter was removed after 2 days. Stenosis developed after 1 month in 3 cases in which normal urination was resumed by performing the standard perineal urethrostomy. All cats returned to good health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The method of computed tomography (CT) brought forward the question about the anatomic adequacy of the images obtained. At the beginning the carnivores were used as experimental models for the needs of human medicine. Along with the increase in canine and feline populations and in connection with the ensuing and rising diagnostic requirements the interest in CT is increasing in veterinary medicine too. Consequently the clinical cardiology is faced with different anatomical reconstructions of topographic images which impose to examine and make precise the cardiovascular structures in order to remove the diagnostic dilemmas resulting from the individual particularities, the situation of the organs in the thoracic and pelvic cavities at different body positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was included to examination of 50 blood samples which collected from 50 stray cats in Mosul city for diagnosis Babesia spp., Cytauxzoon felis and Haemobartonella felis, different diagnostic techniques were used for differentiation between these parasites, they were: Impression smear, fine needle aspiration and histological examination of the liver and spleen. Some clinical signs and pathological changes were observed in the affected cats which may be result from the infection with these blood parasites. The percentage of infection with Babesia spp. (small type), Cytauxzoon felis, and Haemobartonella felis were 26%, 22%, 42% respectively. The sizes of Babesia spp.was between 1.33-2.15 μu within a mean of 1.53 μu and the size of Cytauxzoon felis ranged between 0.8-2.3 within a mean of 1.64 μu while the sizes of Haemobartonella felis varied between 0.5-2 μu within a mean of 1.15 μu.Tissue stage (schizonts) of Cytauxzoon felis were diagnosed in the cytoplasm of macrophages in the liver and spleen with different stage of replication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The method of computed tomography (CT) brought forward the question about the anatomic adequacy of the images obtained. At the beginning the carnivores were used as experimental models for the needs of human medicine. Along with the increase in canine and feline populations and in connection with the ensuing and rising diagnostic requirements the interest in CT is increasing in veterinary medicine too. Consequently the clinical cardiology is faced with different anatomical reconstructions of topographic images which impose to examine and make precise the cardiovascular structures in order to remove the diagnostic dilemmas resulting from the individual particularities, the situation of the organs in the thoracic and pelvic cavities at different body positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 7-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat was presented because of post-prandial regurgitation, gasping shortly after eating, weight loss, dyspnea, and tachypnea. Six months prior to the onset of these signs the cat had received nutritional support via gastrostomy and then nasogastric tubes. A diagnosis of esophageal diverticulum was made on the basis of clinical features, contrast esophagram, and endoscopy, and was considered a complication of tube feeding. Medical therapy, including parenteral fluids, ranitidine, metoclopramide, and cisapride, and a soft, bland low-fat diet resulted in improvement in the clinical signs within 1 week. The cat was discharged and recovery was confirmed by phone call follow-up with the owner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 3-year-old male cat was referred to the Konkuk University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital with a urethral stricture following the performance of a perineal urethrostomy. A surgical revision was performed, but the stricture recurred. To dilate the urethra, balloon dilation and bougienage were performed. No clinical signs of urethral stricture and no complications were observed after bougienage following 12 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Dental disease has a negative impact on the quality of life and welfare of various species. The most important preventive measures in cats are performed by the cat owners. However, cat owners' knowledge of dental disease and prevention is unclear. Veterinary care staff are important sources of information to the cat owners, but the type and frequency of information on dental disease prevention given to the owners have not been described. We conducted web-based surveys to investigate owners' knowledge of and veterinary care staff's communication of dental problems in cats. Overall, 2/3 of the cat owners knew about dental disease and listed modified eating behaviour, gingivitis, halitosis, pain and dental calculus as the most common signs. Commonly, the source of information was the internet followed by veterinary care staff, and the most known preventive measure was tooth brushing, although a small proportion performed it daily or every second day. Veterinary care staff responded that they always or sometimes informed cat owners about prophylactic dental care, most frequently by oral communication, and tooth brushing was the most common preventive measure recommended. This study indicates that cat owners have the relevant knowledge to support the oral health of cats, but the application of preventive measures needs to increase to promote welfare in cats. In particular, the motivation and practical options for owners of cats who may not tolerate tooth brushing should be considered, and alternative strategies discussed. Veterinary care staff present relevant communication but there is room to develop strategies such as improvement in education and communication. Dental problems are increasingly recognised in cats although many problems are preventable by tooth brushing. However, the knowledge level and preventive measures performed by owners are unclear. Additionally, there is a shortage of information on the communication by veterinary care staff to owners on dental health and prophylaxis in cats. The aim was to describe the knowledge and perceptions among Swedish cat owners and the communication by veterinary care staff on dental problems and prevention in cats. We distributed two electronic surveys; to cat owners and care staff, respectively. Of the cat owners, n = 407, 2/3 stated that they have knowledge about dental disease, listing modified eating behaviour as the most common sign followed by gingivitis, halitosis, pain and dental calculus. The main source of information was the internet followed by veterinary care staff, and 47% of the owners reported that they perform preventive oral health measures. The single most frequently stated preventive measure was tooth brushing, which was applied by 28% of the cat owners but with low frequency (daily n = 15, every second day n = 14). Veterinary care staff, n = 179, reported that they inform (47%) or sometimes inform (42%) cat owners on prophylactic dental care, daily or 3–7 times a week (combined 39%) most frequently by oral communication, with tooth brushing as the most common measure recommended. This study suggests that cat owners have relevant knowledge on dental health in cats, but the performed preventive measures are too infrequent to support good oral health in cats. There is room to develop strategies such as improvement in education and communication to increase welfare in cats. This includes consideration of the motivation and practical options for owners of cats who may not tolerate tooth brushing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exosomes are extracellular vesicles with a diameter between 40 and 120 nm, which are derived from all types of cells and released into all biological fluids, such as blood plasma, serum, urine, breast milk, colostrum, and more. They contain proteins, nucleic acids (mRNA, miRNA, other non-coding RNA, and DNA), and lipids. Exosomes represent a potentially accurate footprint of the miRNA profile of the parental cell and can therefore be proposed as potential and sensitive biomarkers, both in diagnosing and monitoring a variety of diseases in humans and animals. Liquid biopsy offers itself as a non-invasive or minimally invasive, pain-free, time-saving alternative to conventional tissue biopsy. Exosomes in both human and veterinary medicine find their major application in neoplastic diseases, but applications in the field of veterinary cardiology, nephrology, reproduction, parasitology, and regenerative medicine are currently being explored. Exosomes can therefore be used as diagnostic, prognostic, and, in some cases, therapeutic tools for several conditions. The aim of this review was to assess the current applications of exosomes in veterinary medicine, particularly in dog and cat patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patellar luxation is an orthopedic disorder seen rarely in cats. In this study, patellar luxation was encountered in 8 of 7744 cats brought to the Department of Surgery of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Ýstanbul University between the years of 1995-2001. The rate of patellar luxation was 0.10% of feline cases. The patellar luxation incidence in 5145 orthopedic lesions in cats was 0.15%. Clinical symptoms such as difficulty in walking, running with a hop and abnormal stance in the hindlimb were seen in patients diagnosed using skyline radiography technique. The aim of the present study was the clinical diagnosis and early treatment of this low incidence disease of cats. Treatment procedures have been determined in these early-diagnosed cases according to the degree of the disease. Two of these cases were treated conservatively and 6 operatively. It was concluded that capsuloraphy combined with sulcoplasty increased the success rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: As cannabis-derived products have become more available for human medical and recreational use, veterinarians are seeing more cases of cannabis toxicosis in pets. In addition, animal owners have increasing interest in giving these products to their pets. These clients understandably are asking, "Are these products legal, safe, and effective for treating medical conditions in animals?". This review considers the different types of cannabis and cannabis-derived products, historical examples of use in animals, the industry, the existing framework of legislation and regulations for use in humans and animals as medicines and/or supplements, veterinary clinical use of these products, toxicosis, and recommendations and warnings around their veterinary use. As cannabis-derived products have become more available, veterinarians are seeing more cases of toxicosis. In addition, animal owners are having an increasing interest in using these products for their pets. This review looks at the situation in Europe and North America, the different types of cannabis and cannabis-derived products with historical examples of use in animals, and the cannabis industry. The existing regulatory framework for use in humans and animals as medicines and/or supplements was examined. Finally, a review of the clinical indications for which medicinal cannabis is authorised, a discussion of toxicosis, and recommendations and warnings around medical cannabis use are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: COVID-19 has impacted veterinary medicine and cat guardians in numerous ways. The purpose of this study was to better understand cat guardians' fears and concerns pertaining to veterinary care and the ability to obtain pet care products and food during the initial months of the COVID pandemic. We distributed an anonymous online survey to cat guardians that included questions pertaining to guardians' relationship with their cat and their veterinary related concerns and experiences as a result of the pandemic. The results, from 956 participants revealed that the increased amount of time guardians spent with their cat had a positive impact on their bond. Participants' primary veterinary related concerns centered around the availability of their veterinarian for both emergency and non-emergency care. Other concerns they shared included fears about the ability to afford emergency veterinary care and obtain cat food and supplies. Awareness of these concerns can help veterinarians better meet the needs of cat guardians by directly communicating their continued availability and presence in the face of a pandemic as well as other challenging times. The onset of COVID has impacted the field of veterinary medicine and the lives of cat guardians in numerous ways, yet the subject remains largely unexplored. The purpose of this study was to better understand cat guardians' fears and concerns pertaining to veterinary care and obtainment of pet care products and food during the initial lock down phase of the COVID pandemic to better address these concerns now and in the future. To this end, an anonymous online survey was distributed to cat guardians during the first two months of the pandemic. The survey included questions pertaining to guardians' relationship with their cat and their veterinary related concerns and experiences as a result of the pandemic. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 956 participants. The results revealed that the increased amount of time guardians spent with their cat had a positive impact on their bond. Participants' veterinary related concerns, particularly for participants between 18–29 years of age, centered around availability of their veterinarian for both emergency and non-emergency care. Other concerns included fears about the ability to afford emergency veterinary care and obtain cat food and supplies. Awareness of these concerns can help veterinarians better support cat guardians by directly communicating their continued availability and presence in the face of a pandemic as well as other challenging times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sporotrichosis is caused by Sporothrix schenckii. The definitive diagnosis is obtained from the isolation in culture. However, the cytopathologic examination is often used in the diagnostic of feline cases without the parameters of accuracy established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the cytopathological examination in the diagnosis of feline sporotrichosis. We conducted a masked sectional diagnostic study which included 244 cats. The sensitivity of the test was 84.9% and the specificity 57.9%. Predictive values (+/-), likelihood ratios (+/-) and accuracy were respectively: 86.0%, 24.4%, 2.02, 0.26 and 82.8%. We conclude that the cytopathological examination is a sensitive, rapid and practical method to be used in feline sporotrichosis diagnosis epidemic outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

5-Aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), a commonly used photosensitizer in photodynamic detection (PDD) and therapy (PDT), is converted in situ to the established photosensitizer protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) via the heme biosynthetic pathway. To extend 5-ALA-PDT application, we evaluated the PpIX fluorescence induced by exogenous 5-ALA in various veterinary tumors and treated canine and feline tumors. 5-ALA-PDD sensitivity and specificity in the whole sample group for dogs and cats combined were 89.5 and 50%, respectively. Notably, some small tumors disappeared upon 5-ALA-PDT. Although single PDT application was not curative, repeated PDT+/−chemotherapy achieved long-term tumor control. We analyzed the relationship between intracellular PpIX concentration and 5-ALA-PDT in vitro cytotoxicity using various primary tumor cells and determined the correlation between intracellular PpIX concentration and 5-ALA transporter and metabolic enzyme mRNA expression levels. 5-ALA-PDT cytotoxicity in vitro correlated with intracellular PpIX concentration in carcinomas. Ferrochelatase mRNA expression levels strongly negatively correlated with PpIX accumulation, representing the first report of a correlation between mRNA expression related to PpIX accumulation and PpIX concentration in canine tumor cells. Our findings suggested that the results of 5-ALA-PDD might be predictive for 5-ALA-PDT therapeutic effects for carcinomas, with 5-ALA-PDT plus chemotherapy potentially increasing the probability of tumor control in veterinary medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]