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Mycoplasma species are common inhabitants of the feline oral cavity, and so likely contaminate many cat bite abscesses. The objectives of this study were to determine whether Mycoplasma species are common contaminants of cat bite abscesses and whether they are are associated with β-lactam-resistant clinical disease. Twenty-six privately owned cats with clinical evidence of an abscess suspected to be from a cat bite were included in the study. Samples from each cat were evaluated by aerobic and anaerobic culture, as well as Mycoplasma species culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All cats were initially treated with appropriate wound management and were administered an antibiotic of the β-lactam class (amoxicillin, amoxicillin clavulanate or cefovecin sodium). Mycoplasma species DNA was amplified by PCR from 4/26 samples (15.4%); one of these cases was concurrently culture positive. Adequate DNA for sequencing was present for 2/4 positive PCR samples; one was most homologous with Mycoplasma felis, and the other was most homologous with Mycoplasma equigenitalium and Mycoplasma elephantis. Of the 26 cats, 25 responded to the initial treatment by day 7. The cat that failed initial treatment was positive for M equigenitalium or M elephantis DNA on days 0 and 12, and ultimately responded to administration of enrofloxacin and clindamycin. The results suggest that while Mycoplasma species can contaminate cat bite abscesses, routine wound management and β-lactam antibiotic therapy is adequate for treatment in most cases of abscess. However, as Mycoplasma species infections do not respond to β-lactam class antibiotic therapy, these organisms should be on the differential list for cats with abscesses that fail treatment with this antibiotic class., (© ISFM and AAFP 2014.)

Benign, inflammatory polyps may affect the nasopharynx and auditory canal of cats. It has been proposed that inflammation induced by infectious disease agents could trigger polyp formation. The objective of this pilot study was to determine the prevalence of feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), feline calicivirus (FCV), Mycoplasma species, Bartonella species and Chlamydophila felis nucleic acids in polyp tissues collected from 30 clinically affected cats. Samples collected from the tympanic bulla from 12 clinically normal cats were also assayed. DNA or RNA of some of the target agents were amplified from samples from 25% of normal cats and 33% of affected cats; however, statistical associations were not detected for individual agent results or grouped results. The study documents that common oropharyngeal or blood borne agents can be detected in the tympanic bullae of normal cats. Failure to consistently amplify RNA or DNA of the select agents from polyp tissues suggests the agents studied were not directly associated with the pathogenesis of this syndrome in the cats tested. Alternately, the inflammatory response may have cleared microbial nucleic acids to undetectable levels by the time of sample collection., (Copyright © 2010 ISFM and AAFP. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To evaluate the use of dipstick, sulfosalicylic acid (SSA), and urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UP:C) methods for use in detection of canine and feline albuminuria., Design: Evaluation study., Sample Population: 599 canine and 347 feline urine samples., Procedures: Urine was analyzed by use of dipstick, SSA, and UP:C methods; results were compared with those for a species-specific ELISA to determine sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value, and positive and negative likelihood ratios., Results: Positive results for dipstick and SSA tests (trace reaction or greater) in canine urine had moderate specificity (dipstick, 81.2%; SSA, 73.3%) and poor PPV (dipstick, 34.0%; SSA, 41.8%). Values improved when stronger positive results (>or= 2+) for the dipstick and SSA tests were compared with ELISA results (specificity, 98.9% and 99.0% for the urine dipstick and SSA tests, respectively; PPV, 90.7% and 90.2% for the dipstick and SSA tests, respectively). Data obtained for cats revealed poor specificity (dipstick, 11.0%; SSA, 25.4%) and PPV (dipstick, 55.6%; SSA, 46.9%). Values improved slightly when stronger positive test results (>or= 2+) were used (specificity, 80.0% and 94.2% for the dipstick and SSA tests, respectively; PPV, 63.5% and 65.2% for the dipstick and SSA tests, respectively). The UP:C had high specificity for albuminuria in dogs and cats (99.7% and 99.2%, respectively) but low sensitivity (28.7% and 2.0%, respectively)., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Caution should be used when interpreting a positive test result of a dipstick or SSA test for canine or feline albuminuria.

Retention of tablets or capsules in the feline esophagus can be associated with esophagitis and esophageal stricture formation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the esophageal passage of tablets and capsules when administered with either a one-step pill gun with flavored liquid (FlavoRx pill glide) or a pill delivery treat (Pill Pockets). Four different medication administrations were evaluated on different days in eight normal cats: tablets with FlavoRx pill glide (T-FG), tablets with pill delivery treats (T-PP), capsules with FlavoRx pill glide (C-FG) and capsules with pill delivery treats (C-PP). The estimated average transit time was 36s for T-FG, 60s for T-PP, 16s for C-FG, and 24s for C-PP. The results of this study suggest that either pill delivery method is acceptable for successful passage of tablets or capsules into the stomach of cats using a single replicate., (Copyright 2009 ISFM and AAFP. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

T evaluate the effect of supplementation with Enterococcus faecium strain SF68 (NCIMB10415) on immune function, responses to a multivalent vaccine were investigated in kittens given palatability enhancer with or without E. faecium SF68 daily. E. faecium SF68 was detected in the feces of seven of nine treated cats. Supplementation of kittens with E. faecium SF68 did not affect developmental parameters. The percentage of CD4+ lymphocytes was significantly higher in the treatment group. There were no statistical differences in measurements of any other nonspecific or specific immune parameters between groups.

Rickettsia felis is associated with fever, headache, myalgia, and macular rash in some infected humans and has been detected in the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) in many countries around the world. While some naturally exposed cats have been assessed for antibodies against R felis, to our knowledge, no one has reported use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to attempt to amplify R felis DNA from client-owned cats and the fleas collected from them. In this study, we assayed 92 pairs of cat blood and flea extracts from Alabama, Maryland and Texas, using PCR assays that amplify a region of the citrate synthase gene (gltA) and the outer membrane protein B gene (ompB). Of the 92 pairs, 62 of 92 (67.4%) flea extracts and none of the cat blood samples were positive for R felis DNA.

Q fever is a worldwide zoonotic disease caused by Coxiella burnetii. Although traditionally associated with livestock exposure, human infection has also been documented from contact with parturient cats. The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of C burnetii DNA in uterine and vaginal tissues from healthy client-owned and shelter cats of north-central Colorado using polymerase chain reaction assay. Coxiella burnetii was not amplified from vaginal samples of any cat or uterine biopsies of shelter cats. However, a nucleotide sequence with 99% homology to C burnetii DNA was amplified from four of 47 (8.5%) uterine biopsies of client-owned cats. This study demonstrates that clinically normal cats in north-central Colorado can harbor C burnetii. Care should be taken when attending to parturient cats and contact with parturient secretions should be avoided. Additional studies are indicated to further characterize the role of cats in zoonotic Q fever.

Bartonella henselae is occasionally associated with neurological dysfunction in people and some experimentally infected cats. The purpose of this study was to determine whether B henselae seroprevalence or titer magnitude varies among cats with neurological disease, cats with non-neurological diseases, and healthy cats while controlling for age and flea exposure. There was no difference in B henselae seroprevalence rates between cats with seizures and cats with other neurological diseases. Cats with non-neurological disease and healthy cats were more likely than cats with neurological disease to be seropositive. While the median B henselae antibody titer was greater in cats with seizures than in cats with other neurological disease, the median B henselae antibody titer was also greater in healthy cats than cats with seizures. The results suggest that titer magnitude cannot be used alone to document clinical disease associated with B henselae infection and that presence of B henselae antibodies in serum of cats with neurological disease does not prove the clinical signs are related to B henselae.

Objective: To evaluate plasma glipizide concentration and its relationship to plasma glucose and serum insulin concentrations in healthy cats administered glipizide orally or transdermally. ANIMALS-15 healthy adult laboratory-raised cats., Procedure: Cats were randomly assigned to 2 treatment groups (5 mg of glipizide, PO or transdermally) and a control group. Blood samples were collected 0, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 minutes and 4, 6, 10, 14, 18, and 24 hours after administration to determine concentrations of insulin, glucose, and glipizide., Results: Glipizide was detected in all treated cats. Mean +/- SD transdermal absorption was 20 +/- 14% of oral absorption. Mean maximum glipizide concentration was reached 5.0 +/- 3.5 hours after oral and 16.0 +/- 4.5 hours after transdermal administration. Elimination half-life was variable (16.8 +/- 12 hours orally and 15.5 +/- 15.3 hours transdermally). Plasma glucose concentrations decreased in all treated cats, compared with concentrations in control cats. Plasma glucose concentrations were significantly lower 2 to 6 hours after oral administration, compared with after transdermal application; concentrations were similar between treatment groups and significantly lower than for control cats 10 to 24 hours after treatment., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Transdermal absorption of glipizide was low and inconsistent, but analysis of our results indicated that it did affect plasma glucose concentrations. Transdermal administration of glipizide is not equivalent to oral administration. Formulation, absorption, and stability studies are required before clinical analysis can be performed. Transdermal administration of glipizide cannot be recommended for clinical use at this time.

Objective: To determine whether administration of Crandell-Rees feline kidney (CRFK) cell lysates or vaccines against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia (FVRCP vaccines) that likely contain CRFK cell proteins induces antibodies against CRFK cell or feline renal cell (FRC) lysates in cats., Animals: 14 eight-week-old cats., Procedure: Before and after the study, renal biopsy specimens were obtained from each cat for histologic evaluation. Each of 4 FVRCP vaccines was administered to 2 cats at weeks 0, 3, 6, and 50. Between weeks 0 and 50, another 3 pairs of cats received 11 CRFK cell lysate inoculations SC (10, 50, or 50 microg mixed with alum). Clinicopathologic evaluations and ELISAs to detect serum antibodies against CRFK cell or FRC lysates were performed at intervals., Results: Cats had no antibodies against CRFK cell or FRC lysates initially. All cats administered CRFK cell lysate had detectable antibodies against CRFK cell or FRC lysates on multiple occasions. Of 6 cats vaccinated parenterally, 5 had detectable antibodies against CRFK cell lysate at least once, but all 6 had detectable antibodies against FRC lysate on multiple occasions. Cats administered an intranasal-intraocular vaccine did not develop detectable antibodies against either lysate. Important clinicopathologic or histologic abnormalities were not detected during the study., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Parenteral administration of vaccines containing viruses likely grown on CRFK cells induced antibodies against CRFK cell and FRC lysates in cats. Hypersensitization with CRFK cell proteins did not result in renal disease in cats during the 56-week study.

Thousands of blood transfusions are performed each year on dogs and cats, and the demand for blood products continues to grow. Risks associated with transfusions include the risk of disease transmission. Appropriate screening of blood donors for bloodborne infectious disease agents should be performed to lessen this risk. Geographic restrictions of disease, breed predilection, and documentation of actual disease transmission by transfusion all are factors that might need to be considered when making a decision on what screening program to use. In addition, factors involving general health care and management of blood donors should be employed to further ensure blood safety.

PurposeTo assess safety and tolerability of a subconjunctival penciclovir implant in cats infected with feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1).MethodsSubconjunctival blank (n = 4 cats) or penciclovir-impregnated (n = 6) silicone implants were placed bilaterally in 10 normal, FHV-1-naive cats 7-8 days before viral inoculation. Outcomes included disease score, FHV-1 serology, conjunctival viral load, Schirmer tear tests (STT), tear film break-up times (TFBUTs), conjunctival histology, goblet cell density (GCD), body weight, tear and plasma penciclovir concentration, and corneal ulcer evaluation.ResultsBoth groups had similar clinical and histologic disease scores, STT values, TFBUTs, GCD, FHV-1 titers, viral loads, and body weight changes. No ocular or systemic signs of toxicity were noted. Tear penciclovir concentration varied widely among cats and across time points. Tear penciclovir concentrations exceeded the lowest published half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) in 5/6 treated cats. Plasma penciclovir concentrations remained below 10 ng/mL. Cats with higher tear penciclovir concentrations at inoculation and/or time of peak disease had fewer corneal ulcers than cats in which tear penciclovir concentrations were inconsistent, low, or unrecordable.ConclusionsSubconjunctival blank and penciclovir-impregnated implants were well tolerated at the ocular surface and not associated with systemic toxicity, adverse effect, or appreciable plasma penciclovir concentrations. Tear penciclovir concentrations >IC50 were sometimes achieved, especially during burst release soon after implant placement. Further study is necessary to determine efficacy of locally delivered penciclovir when penciclovir concentration is consistently maintained above IC50. This will be especially useful in patients unable to receive systemic therapy.

ObjectiveTo evaluate diagnostic utility of aqueous humor analysis in animals with anterior uveitis.AnimalsClient-owned dogs (n = 12) and cats (n = 10).ProceduresExamination findings and diagnostic test results including aqueous humor cytology were compared.ResultsDisease duration prior to aqueocentesis was not significantly different between dogs with idiopathic anterior uveitis and those with an etiologic diagnosis, but was shorter in cats with feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) than those with idiopathic uveitis. Microbial nucleic acids, antigens, or antibodies against them were seldom found in blood/serum; however, serum feline coronavirus titers ≥1:6400 were detected only in cats with FIP. Aqueous humor cytology was diagnostic in no cats and two dogs, both with neoplasia. Although aqueous humor contained predominantly neutrophils in cats with FIP and large reactive lymphocytes and plasma cells appeared more frequent in cats with idiopathic uveitis, neither clinical nor cytologic assessment of anterior chamber contents differed significantly between cats with idiopathic or FIP-associated uveitis. Cytologically assessed plasma cell number was correlated with keratic precipitates and disease duration. Clinically detectable hyphema and cytologic erythrocyte number were correlated. However, cytologic cell grades and clinical grade of flare or cell numbers within the anterior chamber were not correlated.ConclusionsAqueous humor cytology permitted diagnosis of neoplasia in dogs with anterior uveitis but was generally not helpful in cats. Poor correlation between clinical and cytologic assessment of cell numbers and type within the anterior chamber dictates that clinical grading should not be the sole criterion for electing to perform aqueocentesis.

UnlabelledGammaherpesviruses (GHVs) are a diverse and rapidly expanding group of viruses associated with a variety of disease conditions in humans and animals. To identify felid GHVs, we screened domestic cat (Felis catus), bobcat (Lynx rufus), and puma (Puma concolor) blood cell DNA samples from California, Colorado, and Florida using a degenerate pan-GHV PCR. Additional pan-GHV and long-distance PCRs were used to sequence a contiguous 3.4-kb region of each putative virus species, including partial glycoprotein B and DNA polymerase genes. We identified three novel GHVs, each present predominantly in one felid species: Felis catus GHV 1 (FcaGHV1) in domestic cats, Lynx rufus GHV 1 (LruGHV1) in bobcats, and Puma concolor GHV 1 (PcoGHV1) in pumas. To estimate infection prevalence, we developed real-time quantitative PCR assays for each virus and screened additional DNA samples from all three species (n = 282). FcaGHV1 was detected in 16% of domestic cats across all study sites. LruGHV1 was detected in 47% of bobcats and 13% of pumas across all study sites, suggesting relatively common interspecific transmission. PcoGHV1 was detected in 6% of pumas, all from a specific region of Southern California. The risk of infection for each host varied with geographic location. Age was a positive risk factor for bobcat LruGHV1 infection, and age and being male were risk factors for domestic cat FcaGHV1 infection. Further characterization of these viruses may have significant health implications for domestic cats and may aid studies of free-ranging felid ecology.ImportanceGammaherpesviruses (GHVs) establish lifelong infection in many animal species and can cause cancer and other diseases in humans and animals. In this study, we identified the DNA sequences of three GHVs present in the blood of domestic cats (Felis catus), bobcats (Lynx rufus), and pumas (Puma concolor; also known as mountain lions, cougars, and panthers). We found that these viruses were closely related to, but distinct from, other known GHVs of animals and represent the first GHVs identified to be native to these feline species. We developed techniques to rapidly and specifically detect the DNA of these viruses in feline blood and found that the domestic cat and bobcat viruses were widespread across the United States. In contrast, puma virus was found only in a specific region of Southern California. Surprisingly, the bobcat virus was also detected in some pumas, suggesting relatively common virus transmission between these species. Adult domestic cats and bobcats were at greater risk for infection than juveniles. Male domestic cats were at greater risk for infection than females. This study identifies three new viruses that are widespread in three feline species, indicates risk factors for infection that may relate to the route of infection, and demonstrates cross-species transmission between bobcats and pumas. These newly identified viruses may have important effects on feline health and ecology.

Bartonella henselae is associated with numerous clinical syndromes in people. Cats are the definitive hosts for B. henselae, develop high levels of bacteremia, and are associated with human infections, particularly in the presence of Ctenocephalides felis. Several antibiotic protocols used for the treatment of B. henselae infection in cats have failed to clear bacteremia. The purpose of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a high-dose pradofloxacin protocol to eliminate B. henselae bacteremia. Bartonella henselae infection was initiated in 8 cats by intravenous inoculation of infected feline blood and then pradofloxacin was administered at 7.5 mg/kg, PO, twice daily for 28 days, starting 12 weeks after inoculation. Complete blood cell counts were performed prior to pradofloxacin administration and then every 2 weeks for 10 weeks. Bartonella PCR assay was performed prior to pradofloxacin administration and approximately every 2 weeks for 10 weeks and then weekly for 4 weeks. Methylprednisolone acetate (5 mg/kg) was administered by intramuscular injection to all cats on week 10. The cats remained normal and none developed a hematocrit, platelet count, lymphocyte count, or neutrophil count outside of the normal reference ranges. In the one month prior to pradofloxacin administration, all cats were PCR-positive for Bartonella DNA on at least two of four sample dates; after pradofloxacin administration, all cats were negative for B. henselae DNA in blood on all nine sample dates. The protocol appears to be safe and failure to amplify B. henselae DNA from the blood after the administration of pradofloxacin and one dose of methylprednisolone acetate suggests either an antibiotic effect or the organism was cleared spontaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bartonella henselae has been implicated as a causative agent of chronic uveitis in people and in some cats. The objective of this study was to determine whether Bartonella species seroprevalence or titer magnitude varies among cats with uveitis, cats without ocular diseases recorded and healthy cats, while controlling for age and risk of flea exposure based on state of residence. There was no difference in seroprevalence rates or titer magnitude between cats with uveitis and cats with non-ocular diseases. Healthy cats were more likely to be seropositive for Bartonella species than cats with uveitis. The median Bartonella species titer was 1:64 for all groups, although healthy cats were more likely to have higher titers than cats with uveitis and cats with non-ocular disease. The results suggest that serum antibody tests alone cannot be used to document clinical uveitis associated with Bartonella species infection.

Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation can be used as a test of thyroid function and pituitary thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone, TSH) reserve, but optimal stimulation testing protocols in cats are unreported. We randomly divided 6 healthy young adult cats into 3 groups of 2 and administered 3 different intravenous doses of TRH (0.01, 0.05, 0.1 mg/kg) at weekly intervals in our crossover study. Serum TSH and thyroxine (T4) concentrations were measured using chemiluminescent immunoassay before, and at 30 and 60 min after, TRH administration. All cats were monitored for 4 h post-TRH administration for side effects. All 3 TRH doses induced significant TSH (0.01 mg/kg, p = 0.001; 0.05 mg/kg, p = 0.002; 0.1 mg/kg, p = 0.006) and total T4 (0.01 mg/kg, p = 0.008; 0.05 mg/kg, p = 0.006; 0.1 mg/kg, p = 0.001) responses. Lower TRH doses (0.01 and 0.05 mg/kg) caused fewer side effects (1 of 6 cats) than did the highest dose (3 of 6 cats), and may be safer in cats than the previously reported higher dose (0.1 mg/kg) of TRH. Our results do not support the use of maropitant to prevent side effects of a TRH stimulation test in cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infection with Bartonella species is common in cats but reported effects of bacteremia on laboratory variables differ. Objectives: Evaluate for associations between Bartonella bacteremia and CBC and serum biochemical changes in sick and healthy cats throughout the United States. Animals: A total of 3964 client‐owned cats. Methods: Retrospective cohort study using submissions to a commercial laboratory between 2011 and 2017. Serum biochemistry and CBC abnormalities (categorized as above or below reference intervals), age, and location (high‐ or low‐risk state for Ctenocephalides felis) in presumed healthy and sick cats were evaluated for associations with presence of Bartonella spp. DNA, detected by PCR. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: Bartonella spp. DNA was amplified from 127 (3.2%) of 3964 cats; 126 (99.2%) of 127 were from high flea risk states and 121 (95.3%) of 127 were presumed sick. Fever of unknown origin was the most common PCR panel requested. In the multivariable analysis, neutrophilia, decreased ALP activity, clinical status (presumed sick), and young age (≤2 years) each were positively associated whereas neutropenia and hyperproteinemia both were negatively associated with Bartonella spp. bacteremia. Presence of Bartonella spp. DNA had no association with test results for other infectious disease agents. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: In both healthy and sick cats, active Bartonella infections had minimal association with clinically relevant laboratory abnormalities. However, based on these results, in areas considered high risk for C. felis, active infection with Bartonella spp. is a reasonable differential diagnosis for cats presented with unexplained fever and neutrophilia, particularly if the cat is young. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic stress is implicated in behavioral and health issues in cats, but methods for recognition, evaluation, and measurement of stress are lacking. Cortisol concentration is typically used as an indicator of stress. Objectives: To evaluate use of an enzyme immunoassay to quantitate hair and nail cortisol concentrations (HCC and NCC) in cats and evaluate associations between HCC and NCC and behavioral, physical, and environmental correlates of chronic stress in cats. Animals Forty‐eight adult, owned or community cats. Methods: Cross‐sectional study. Nail clippings and hair were collected from cats. Medical history and cat daily lifestyle questionnaires were completed by owners or caretakers. A commercial laboratory performed cortisol extraction and quantification using a validated enzyme immunoassay kit. Correlational and regression analyses were used to evaluate associations between HCC and NCC and behavioral, environmental, and medical factors. Results: Hair and nail cortisol concentrations were significantly associated (rs = 0.70; P <.001), but HCCs varied widely within and among cats. Cats with litterbox issues had significantly increased HCC (P =.02) and NCC (P =.001) as compared to cats without litterbox issues. Cats with groomed coats had lower HCCs (P =.02) as compared to cats without groomed coats, whereas cats with dander and mats had higher NCCs (P =.01) as compared to cats without dander and mats. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The quantification of NCCs might improve identification and evaluation of chronic stress in cats. The variability of HCCs in individual cats warrants caution using this measurement in chronic stress studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cystoisospora felis is a common parasite of cats and is diagnosed by fecal flotation, but false‐negative results can be common. Hypothesis/Objectives: To experimentally inoculate cats with C. felis oocysts, to compare fecal flotation and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results, and to describe any clinical signs consistent with infection. Animals Six cats. Methods: Cystoisospora felis oocysts were identified morphologically from feces of a naturally infected kitten with diarrhea, sporulated oocysts (5000) were inoculated to 6 cats that were negative for fecal parasites by fecal flotation and by a fluorescent antibody assay (FA) for Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. Cats were observed daily for the presence of clinical signs consistent with infection. Fecal samples were evaluated by fecal flotation and FA up to 3 times per week post inoculation (PI) to Day 27. Thirty‐six samples collected before inoculation and from Days 8, 10, 13, 15, and 20 PI were assayed using an internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) PCR that amplifies DNA of C. felis. Results: All cats were negative for C. felis by both assays before inoculation. All cats shed C. felis oocysts by Day 10 PI, oocysts were not detected by fecal flotation after Day 15 PI. Cystoisospora felis DNA was amplified from 24/36 (66.6%) fecal samples from 6/6 (100%) of the cats. Oocysts were not detected by fecal flotation in 4 of the samples that were positive for C. felis DNA by PCR. Clinical signs were not recognized in any of the study cats. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Fecal flotation is a convenient assay for detection of C. felis but could occasionally give false‐negative results when compared to this ITS1 PCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ongoing surveillance of Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence and exposure risks in owned cats is important to identify effective mechanisms to decrease the prevalence of this global zoonotic parasite. We aimed to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii and risk factors for seropositivity in owned domestic cats in Australia. Sera, signalment data, postcode, and completed owner-questionnaires surveying diet composition and lifestyle factors were collected for cats presenting to 18 veterinary clinics across Australia. T. gondii-specific IgG was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were analyzed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression to evaluate risk factors associated with positive T. gondii IgG serology. Among 417 cats, T. gondii seroprevalence was 39%. More than two-thirds of cats tested (69%) had outdoor access and 59% were fed a diet containing raw meat. Univariable analyses identified, age (>1 year, p < 0.001), a diet containing any raw meat (p = 0.001), raw kangaroo (p = 0.008), raw chicken (p = 0.012), or raw beef (p = 0.017), and hunting (p = 0.049) as risk factors for T. gondii infection. Age (>1 year, odds ratio [OR]: 7.15) and feeding of raw meat (OR: 2.23) remained significant risk factors (p < 0.001) in multivariable analyses. T. gondii seroprevalence did not differ between cats domiciled in urban and semiurban or rural areas. Pet cats in Australia are commonly infected with T. gondii. Feeding raw meat to cats, a common practice in Australia, is associated with T. gondii infection, highlighting the need for education about the health implications for cats from feeding a diet containing raw meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We compared a qualitative in-clinic (IC)-PCR for the detection of Mycoplasma haemofelis DNA with the results of a commercial qualitative laboratory-based, conventional (c)PCR. In order to determine the specificity of both tests, Bartonella spp. samples were included. Forty-three previously tested blood samples with known PCR results for hemoplasmas and Bartonella spp. were selected. The samples were split between 2 laboratories. At the first laboratory, DNA was purified and run on 2 cPCR assays for the detection of hemoplasmas and Bartonella spp. At the second laboratory, DNA was purified using 2 purification protocols and both run in the IC-PCR assay. The cPCR results confirmed that 18 samples were positive for M. haemofelis, 5 for ‘Candidatus M. haemominutum’, 8 for Bartonella henselae, 2 for Bartonella clarridgeiae, and 10 were negative for both genera. No mixed infections were observed. The IC-PCR assay for the detection of M. haemofelis had a sensitivity of 94.4% and specificity of 96%, when using the same DNA purification method as the first laboratory. Using the second purification method, the sensitivity of the IC-PCR assay was 77.8% and specificity was 96%. Bartonella species were not detected by the IC-PCR M. haemofelis assay. The IC-PCR assay decreased the amount of time to final result compared to a cPCR assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cats are infected by Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia burgdorferi when exposed to infected Ixodes scapularis (black-legged ticks). The purpose of our study was to allow wild-caught I. scapularis to feed on healthy research cats (n = 4) and temporally evaluate for A. phagocytophilum DNA in blood by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay as well as for antibody responses to the B. burgdorferi C6 peptide, to the A. phagocytophilum P44 peptide, and to a novel A. phagocytophilum peptide (P44-4). Prior to I. scapularis infestation, all cats were negative for antibodies against both organisms based on a kit optimized for dog serum, and negative for A. phagocytophilum DNA in blood using a conventional PCR assay. Using the pre-infestation samples, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for detecting antibodies against the P44-4 peptide was optimized. Cats were infested with wild-caught I. scapularis for 7 days. Genomic DNA of A. phagocytophilum was amplified from the blood before antibodies were detected in all 4 cats. Antibodies against the C6 peptide, P44 peptide, and P44-4 peptide were detected in the sera of all 4 cats. Antibodies against P44-4 were detected prior to those against P44 in 3 out of 4 cats. The results suggest that a PCR assay should be considered in acutely ill cats with suspected anaplasmosis that are seronegative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of successful treatment for Bartonella spp, Mycoplasma hemofelis or Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum infection of cats on results of diagnostic test results commonly available to veterinary practitioners through commercial diagnostic laboratories. Evidence of infection or exposure to Bartonella spp, M hemofelis or Candidatus M. haemominutum was detected in 15 cats with fever. Doxycycline (50 mg) or orbifloxacin (22.7 mg) were administered empirically by mouth for 28 days to 12 cats with laboratory evidence of Bartonella spp infection alone and three cats with laboratory evidence of Bartonella spp and M. hemofelis or Candidatus M. haemominutum co-infection with the laboratory tests repeated on Day 35 and 58 (10 cats) or Day 35 alone (5 cats). While clinical illness in all 15 cats rapidly resolved, all nine cats that were PCR positive for Bartonella spp on Day 0 were still PCR positive on Day 35. Four of the six cats tested on Day 58 were still positive. Only one cat that was positive for Bartonella spp antibodies detected by ELISA on Day 0 was negative on Day 35 and Day 58. Of the 3 cats that were PCR positive for M. hemofelis or 'Candidatus M. haemominutum' on Day 0, only 1 cat (Candidatus M. haemominutum' was PCR positive on Day 35 or Day 58. The results of the study support the recommendation that cats with suspected clinical bartonellosis should be evaluated concurrently by PCR (or culture) and serology. There appears to be little indication for following Bartonella spp assay results within the first 30 days using the treatment protocols described herein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study to examine the prevalence of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) in cats and dogs in an animal shelter in northern Colorado. Aerobic culture and Kirby-Bauer agar disc were employed to verify the prevalence of MRSA or MRSP and to confirm antimicrobial sensitivity. Results showed MRSA in 0.5% of cat samples, MRSA in 0.5% of dog samples, and MRSP in 3% of dog samples.

Objective-To determine whether monthly topical administration of a combination of 10% imidacloprid and 1 % moxidectin would lessen flea (Ctenocephalides fells) transmission of Bartonella henselae among cats. Design-Controlled trial. Animals-18 specific pathogen-free cats housed in 3 groups of 6. Procedures-3 enclosures were separated by mesh to allow fleas to pass among groups yet prevent cats from contacting one another. One group was inoculated IV with B henselao, and after infection was confirmed, the cats were housed in the middle enclosure. This infected group was flanked by a group that was treated topically with 10% imidacloprid-1 % moxidectin monthly for 3 months and by an untreated group. On days 0, 15, 28, and 42, 100 fleas/cat were placed on each of the 6 cats in the B henselae-infected group. Blood samples were collected from all cats weekly for detection of Bartonella spp via PCR assay, bacterial culture, and serologic assay. Results-B henselae infection was confirmed in the cats infected IV and in all untreated cats after flea exposure; none of the cats treated with the imidacloprid-moxidectin combination became infected. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-In this setting, monthly topical administration of 10% imidacloprid-1 % moxidectin reduced flea infestation, compared with infestation in untreated cats, and thus prevented flea transmission of B henselaeto treated cats. Regular monthly use of this flea control product in cats may lessen the likelihood of humans acquiring B henselae infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article evaluates the sensitivity and specificity of the Immunoglobulin G (IgG) enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA) and IgG indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) in detecting Toxoplasma gondii-specific antibodies in two domestic cats in California, using the Bayesian approach. Findings show the poor performance of both serologic tests in cats infected with feline immunodeficiency virus and T. gondii.

The pathogenesis of chronic rhinitis in cats is poorly understood and consistently effective therapies are not currently available. Therefore, randomized clinical trials were conducted to evaluate a novel immunotherapy for treatment of chronic rhinitis in adult (n =12) and young cats (n =28). In addition, cytokine profiles in cats with chronic rhinitis were compared to those of healthy cats. Cats were treated with a potent stimulator of innate immunity (liposome–IL-2 DNA complexes) and the effects of treatment on clinical signs and immune function were assessed. In adult cats with chronic rhinitis, immunotherapy led to significant improvement in frequency of sneezing but not in other clinical signs when compared to the placebo group, whereas immunotherapy failed to improve clinical signs in younger cats. Analysis of cytokine expression in cats with rhinitis did not reveal evidence of a Th2 cytokine bias in cats with rhinitis. We conclude that chronic rhinitis in cats is not a Th2-biased disease and that immunotherapy may lead to clinical improvement in adult cats with the disease. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Renal α-enolase has variable expression in inflammatory and neoplastic diseases. Therefore, in order to define the distribution of α-enolase in renal tissues of cats, an immunohistochemistry assay was validated and described here. Tissues from 29 cats with IRIS Stage 2–4 CKD, 8 control cats < 2 years of age, and 4 control cats> 10 years of age were assessed. Interstitial nephritis was the predominant histopathological finding in the CKD group. The control cats < 2 years of age had moderate α-enolase immunoreactivity in tubular epithelium but staining was absent to mild in glomeruli. In contrast, α-enolase was moderate to high in tubular epithelium and glomeruli in control cats > 10 years of age. In cats with CKD, α-enolase was decreased in tubules that were degenerative or atrophic, similar to normal tubules in control groups, and moderate to high in glomeruli. When compared between the study groups, the results suggest that alpha-enolase decreases in damaged tubules and increases in the glomeruli of older cats prior to the development of detectable CKD. Further studies will be required to determine whether these findings relate to the pathogenesis or could be used in the diagnosis of feline CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on a study which investigates the effects of parenteral administration of Nacetyl-D-glucosamine, Hyaluronic Acid, and Chondroitin Sulfate for healthy cats. The study was conducted to eight domestic cats which were screened through complete blood count (CBC), urinalysis, and biochemical analysis. Results reveal the systemic anti-inflammatory effects and safety of parenteral administration A-cyst® for cats.

Objective--To determine whether Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf) and Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum (Mhm) can be transmitted by ingestion of Mycoplasma-infected Ctenocephalides felis and by-products (feces, larvae, and eggs). Animals--10 cats. Procedure--3 cats were carriers of Mhf, and 1 was a carrier of Mhm. Six cats had negative results of PCR assay for Mhf and Mhm DNA. A chamber containing 100 C felis was bandaged to 2 Mhf carrier cats. Five days later, fleas and by-products were analyzed for Mycoplasma spp DNA. The remaining fleas and a sample of by-products were fed to 2 Mycoplasma-naïve cats. A chamber containing 200 C felis was bandaged to the Mhm carrier cat. Five days later, fleas and by-products were analyzed for Mycoplasma spp DNA. The remaining fleas and a sample of by-products were fed to 2 Mycoplasma-naïve cats. A chamber containing 200 C felis was bandaged to an Mhf-carrier cat and Mhm-carrier cat. Three days later, fleas and by-products were analyzed for Mycoplasma spp DNA. The remaining fleas and a random sample of byproducts were fed to 4 Mycoplasma-naïve cats. All cats were monitored for infection for ≥ 7 weeks. Results--Uptake of Mhf and Mhm DNA into fleas and by-products was detected. None of the naïve cats became infected. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance--Results suggested that ingestion of Mycoplasma-infected C felis or by-products is net an important means of transmission for Mhf or Mhm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Provides information on a study that determined whether fenbendazole effectively eliminates Giardia organisms from chronically infected cats that have a concurrent Cryptosporidium parvum infection. Methodology of the study; Results and discussion on the study; Conclusions.

Abstract: The objective of this study was to determine and compare the assemblages of Giardia duodenalis isolated from mammalian fecal samples using the β-giardin (bg), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) and triosephosphate isomerase (tpi) genes. A total of 202 samples, either submitted to the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (Parasitology) at Colorado State University or part of ongoing research studies, were typed. A subset of 50 dog samples were also assessed by the tpi-D-specific primers. Of these, 183 were from dogs, 13 were from cats, two were from llamas, and one each was from a calf, an alpaca, a sheep, and a horse. The majority of the dogs (171 of 183 isolates) in this study were infected with only dog-adapted Assemblage C or D. The tpi-D-specific primers confirmed that 28 of the samples that typed as Assemblage D by the bg and gdh genes were also Assemblage D by the tpi-D-specific primers. Only 12 isolates were Assemblage A alone or Assemblage A and Assemblage C or D. Of the 13 cat isolates, seven were Assemblage F, two were Assemblage D, three were Assemblage A and 1 contained both Assemblages C and D. The calf isolate was Assemblage E (gdh, tpi) and the alpaca (bg, gdh), llamas (gdh), sheep (bg, gdh, tpi) and horse (tpi) isolates were all Assemblage A. When the assemblage could be determined for more than one gene, 91 of 117 dog isolates gave consistent results and 8 of 9 cat isolates gave consistent results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: To estimate the prevalence of enteric parasites and selected vector-borne agents of dogs and cats in San Isidro de El General, Costa Rica, fecal and serum samples were collected from animals voluntarily undergoing sterilization. Each fecal sample was examined for parasites by microscopic examination after fecal flotation and for Giardia and Cryptosporidium using an immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Giardia and Cryptosporidium IFA positive samples were genotyped after PCR amplification of specific DNA if possible. The seroprevalence rates for the vector-borne agents (Dirofilaria immitis, Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia canis, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum) were estimated based on results from a commercially available ELISA. Enteric parasites were detected in samples from 75% of the dogs; Ancylostoma caninum, Trichuris vulpis, Giardia, and Toxocara canis were detected. Of the cats, 67.5% harbored Giardia spp., Cryptosporidium spp., Ancylostoma tubaeforme, or Toxocara cati. Both Cryptosporidium spp. isolates that could be sequenced were Cryptosporidium parvum (one dog isolate and one cat isolate). Of the Giardia spp. isolates that were successfully sequenced, the 2 cat isolates were assemblage A and the 2 dog isolates were assemblage D. D. immitis antigen and E. canis antibodies were identified in 2.3% and 3.5% of the serum samples, respectively. The prevalence of enteric zoonotic parasites in San Isidro de El General in Costa Rica is high in companion animals and this information should be used to mitigate public health risks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Although the presence of adult Dirofilaria immitis in the pulmonary arteries and its associated arteritis and thromboembolic disease can explain some of the manifestations of canine and feline heartworm disease, the cause of other findings remains unclear. Cats with D. immitis antibodies but lacking adult parasites in the pulmonary arteries frequently develop histological lesions of the airways, resulting in a condition termed Heartworm-Associated Respiratory Disease. All D. immitis parasites harbor Wolbachia pipientis bacteria and D. immitis-infected animals can have circulating Wolbachia antibodies and pro-inflammatory Wolbachia antigens (WSP) deposited in tissues. Little is known about the role that Wolbachia plays in lung disease of animals naturally infected with D. immitis. The purpose of this study was to determine the contribution of Wolbachia to the pathogenesis of natural heartworm disease in cats and dogs. We hypothesized that animals having sufficient Wolbachia burden to be detected in lung tissue by immunohistochemistry and/or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) would have more severe pulmonary disease than those with bacteria below the limits of detection. We further hypothesized that animals that were immunoreactive to pro-inflammatory WSP would have more severe pulmonary lesions than those that were seronegative for WSP antibodies. Blood and lung tissue samples were collected from cats and dogs representing three different D. immitis infection statuses: heartworm-free, heartworm-exposed, heartworm-infected. There was a positive but weak correlation between the magnitude of D. immitis antibody titers and WSP titers in cats (r =0.57, p <0.001) and in dogs (r =0.39, p <0.001). Pulmonary lesions were more common in HW-infected animals than in HW-free animals. Pulmonary arteriolar occlusion was more common in HW-infected cats (57%; p =0.003) than in HW-infected dogs (17%). Although pulmonary lesions were most common in HW-infected animals, there was no clear additive effect when either Wolbachia DNA/WSP was detected in lung tissue or when circulating Wolbachia antibodies were detected. There were no significant differences in the magnitude of pulmonary lesion scores within each HW-infection status group regardless of whether Wolbachia DNA/WSP or antibodies were detected. The relationship between Wolbachia and lung pathology in heartworm-infected animals remains to be determined. The lack of clear evidence for a role of Wolbachia in heartworm disease creates a dilemma for veterinarians treating animals in D. immitis-endemic areas. Although the indiscriminant use of antibiotics should be avoided, many clinicians prescribe doxycycline based on the favorable responses observed in human filarial diseases and promising results from the first published studies of doxycycline use in D. immitis-infected dogs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective--To use PCR assays to determine the prevalence of feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1), Chlamydophila felis, and Mycoplasma spp DNA in conjunctival cells collected from cats with and without conjunctivitis; to compare results of conventional and real-time fluorogenic PCR assays for amplification of FHV-1 DNA; and to determine whether copy numbers of FHV-1 DNA are correlated with conjunctivitis. Animals--55 cats with active conjunctivitis, 39 healthy cats that never had conjunctivitis, and 32 cats with a history of conjunctivitis that had been resolved for at least 3 months. Procedures--Samples were obtained by rolling cotton-tipped applicators on the ventral conjunctiva of awake cats treated topically with proparacaine. The DNA was extracted from the swab specimens and assessed in PCR assays to detect DNA of FHV-1 (fluorogenic PCR assay and conventional PCR assay), Mycoplasma spp (conventional PCR assay), and C felis (conventional PCR assay). Results--Overall prevalence rates of FHV-1, C felis, and Mycoplasma spp as assessed by the conventional PCR assays were 6.7%, 3.2%, and 9.6%, respectively. Percentage concordance between conventional PCR and fluorogenic PCR assays for FHV-1 was 92.5%. There were no significant differences among the 3 groups of cats for the mean copy number of FHV-1 divided by the copy number of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance--Mycoplasma spp were the most prevalent organism detected and was associated with conjunctivitis. This study could not confirm that there are increased copy numbers of FHV-1 DNA in cats with conjunctivitis, compared with the copy numbers for cats without conjunctivitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Giardia infection in dogs and cats in Chiang Mai, Thailand, was common. • Risks associated with Giardia infection in dogs were residing in high-density environments and drank untreated water. • Giardia infection in dogs in Chiang Mai was associated with acute diarrhea or a history of chronic diarrhea and shedding of Cryptosporidium oocysts. • Dogs were more likely to be infected with Giardia duodenalis in rainy season than in winter. • Cryptosporidium parvum was identified in feces of dogs and cats. The objectives of this study were to explore risk factors associated with Giardia and Cryptosporidium infections in dogs and cats in Chiang Mai, Thailand, to describe the seasonal distributions of Giardia and Cryptosporidium prevalence, and to determine the potential for zoonotic transmission through genetic characterization of isolates. Fecal samples from 301 dogs and 66 cats were collected between August 2009 and February 2010. The presence of Giardia cysts and Cryptosporidium oocysts was determined using zinc sulfate centrifugal flotation and immunofluorescent assay (IFA). Genotype/species were determined by DNA sequence analyses of PCR products from Giardia glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh), beta-giardin (bg), and triosephosphateisomerase (tpi) and Cryptosporidium heat shock protein 70KDa (hsp70) and small subunit-rRNA (SSU-rRNA) genes. Information related to specific risk factors was collected from owners of each animal using a questionnaire. The risk factor data were analyzed for associations with Giardia and Cryptosporidium infections using logistic regression. The overall estimated prevalence of Giardia and Cryptosporidium in dogs was 25.2% and 7.6%, respectively and in cats, 27.3% and 12.1%, respectively. The estimated prevalence of Giardia infection in dogs in the rainy season (31.7%) was significantly higher than in the drier, winter season (17.2%) (p < 0.01). The estimated prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in dogs and of Giardia and Cryptosporidium infections in cats was not associated with season (p > 0.05). Multivariable analysis indicated that Giardia cysts were more likely to be detected in fecal samples of dogs that resided in high-density environments, drank untreated water, were shedding Cryptosporidium oocysts, were having acute diarrhea or a history of chronic diarrhea, and were collected in the rainy season. All 19 Giardia PCR positive samples typed as G. duodenalis canine adapted genotypes (assemblages C or D). In cats, of six Giardia PCR positive samples, five typed as dog assemblages and one typed as assemblage AI. Of ten dogs with Cryptosporidium PCR positive samples, eight typed as C. canis, one as C. parvum (a zoonotic species) and one had both C. canis and C. parvum. Of three Cryptosporidium PCR positive samples in cats, one typed as C. felis and two typed as C. parvum. The presence of zoonotic G. duodenalis assemblage AI in a cat, and C. parvum in feces of dogs and cats suggests a potential role for a reservoir for zoonotic transmission. Whether or not these presences were from exposure to other animal or human hosts or environment are needed to be confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]