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Simple Summary: Despite advances in puppy and kitten neonatology in recent years, mortality rates for these patients are still high, making the neonatal period a challenge for veterinarians and owners. Early recognition of newborns at risk allows for rapid intervention, increasing the chance of neonatal survival. To this end, an adequate clinical assessment is essential, which demands knowing the particularities of these patients and the reference parameters for age. Neonatal puppies and kittens have physiological and anatomical characteristics that differ from those of adult animals, which impacts the interpretation of physical examination and complementary tests. The veterinarian must be familiar with the clinical, laboratory, and imaging aspects observed in neonates. It is necessary to thoroughly evaluate the litter and the mother to notice the most subtle signs of illness and advise the owner to constantly monitor the newborns, quickly sending them to specialized care. This review describes how to perform clinical assessments of newborns systematically and recognize clinical signs of neonatal changes or affections in puppies and kittens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Rabies is a critical zoonotic high-risk disease, which has emerged as an important public-health problem. There are limited investigations that explore maternally derived antibody (MDA) in puppies and kittens from around the world. Furthermore, there is no such research in any province of Iran. This study measured the serum level of MDA in 10 puppies and their vaccinated bitches (n=20), 10 puppies and their unvaccinated bitches (n=20), 10 kittens with vaccinated queens and 10 kittens with unvaccinated queens. Antibodies against rabies were measured using quantitative, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our results showed that 90% (9 out of 10) of puppies from vaccinated bitches were positive for anti-rabies antibodies, while test results for all puppies from non-vaccinated bitches were negative (P=0.001). Moreover, puppies’ titers were significantly higher in the vaccinated group than the non-vaccinated group (P=0.003). There was a similar condition between vaccinated and non-vaccinated bitches (P=0.008). Although kittens’ titers were significantly higher in the vaccinated group than the non-vaccinated group (P=0.03), only 20 percent of the kittens with vaccinated queens showed positive results, while all kittens from non-vaccinated queens were negative for anti-rabies antibodies (P=0.137).

Simple Summary: Breeders still see high rates of neonatal mortality in their kennels and catteries globally, which makes the perinatal period a challenge for veterinarians and breeders. This review describes a wide variety of factors that can potentially affect the health of a litter during pregnancy, birth, and the first few weeks of life, which requires both the veterinarian and the breeder to have knowledge of maternal and neonatal care. Knowledge in neonatology is essential for correct management and preventive measures in breeding, impacting well-being and greater neonatal survival. The productivity of kennels and catteries is directly linked to maternal prolificacy and neonatal survival. During the neonatal period, mortality is high, not only due to environmental factors after birth but also with regard to gestational fetal life, complications during delivery, and management errors. Neonatology is an area of veterinary medicine where having a strong knowledge base of applied physiology and common clinical presentations for newborns can often favor better outcomes and greater neonatal survival. The teaching of animal theriogenology topics, particularly neonatal medicine, in the veterinary curriculum has evolved significantly in recent years. It is essential that the veterinarian understands the maternal and neonatal particularities and the main aspects involved in the handling of puppies and kittens for the instruction of the correct handling to the breeders and better medical conduct. The breeder of dogs and cats, experienced or not, must count on the help of a veterinarian in their breeding. Proper management, constant monitoring of the litter, and prompt assistance are the keys to successful breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Viewing cute images of puppies or kittens can improve the performance of various motor tasks due to increased behavioral carefulness. It is possible, however, that this effect can be moderated by the affinity of individuals towards specific cute stimuli. The purpose of this pre-registered study was to examine whether dog ownership moderates the effect of viewing cute images of puppies on two computerized RT-based tasks. Methods: One-hundred and sixty-four participants were covertly recruited and randomly assigned to four groups: (1) dog owners viewing puppies' images (n = 35), (2) dog owners viewing adult dogs' images (n = 36), (3) non-dog owners viewing puppies' images (n = 48), and (4) non-dog owners viewing adult dogs' images (n = 45). The participants performed a Simon task and an alternate task-switching task before and after viewing seven images of puppies/adult dogs based on group affiliation. After performing the tasks, the participants rated each image on five characteristics: cuteness, infantility, pleasantness, excitability, and wanting to get closer. Results: The participants who viewed images of puppies rated those characteristics (e.g., cuter, more infantile, etc.) as higher than the participants who viewed images of adult dogs. There were no differences in the performance of the two tasks between participants who viewed images puppies and participants who viewed images of adult dogs. However, dog owners reacted faster than non-dog owners in the post-test of the alternate task-switching task. It is possible that showing images of dogs to dog owners increased their motivation and attention to the task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent literature data indicate that canine and feline neonates are not born in a sterile environment as it was stated previously. The acquisition, colonisation and maintenance of the early life microbiota of healthy fetuses is a rapidly developing research area. In humans, the natural healthy infant microbiome plays an essential role in health and its assembly is determined by the maternal–offspring exchanges of microbes. Even though this topic is becoming more and more important in dogs and cats, the exact role of the neonatal microbiome is not yet fully known in animals. This review summarises the current knowledge of the normal physiological neonatal microbiome in healthy puppies and kittens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the research is to evaluate therapeutic efficiency of Gamavit in the cases of dehelminthization of puppies and kittens. Materials and methods. Researches were conducted on 18 puppies and 20 kittens of different breeds at the age from 3 weeks to 3 months which had been divided based on analogues into two groups on each animal type. Precautionary dehelminthization was conducted for one part of animals, forced dehelminthization for the other part of animals (presence of helminths' ootids in fecal masses Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina, Uncinaria stenocephala, Ancylostoma caninum). Anthelmintic Dirofen-suspension was administered to animals of the first group orally as prescribed by instructions. Gamavit at a dose of 0.2 ml/kg was additionally administered as a single dose subdermally during dehelminthization of kittens and puppies of the second group.Results and discussion. Vomiting, decreased appetite were noted in animals of control group (without administration of Gamavit) after dehelminthization. Visible adverse changes were not noted in animals of experimental group (with administration of Gamavit). Weakening of leukocytosis and lowering of ERS, increase in red blood cells and hematocrit level, descreased activity of transferring enzymes and LDH level were noticed in animals of this group suggestive of weakening of intoxication and inflammatory reaction. In contrast, increased activity of transferring enzymes and LDH level were noticed in animals of control group which allows to infer about persisting inflammatory events. Consequently, high therapeutic efficiency of Gamavit in the cases of precautionary and forced dehelminthization were elucidated.

As there appears to be an increase in the number of people purchasing puppies and kittens, it is important that they contact their veterinary practice to get advice before they make their choice. Veterinary nurses are best placed to talk to prospective owners about key aspects such as species, sources and age of their new pet. Ideally, we should encourage owners to consider adopting a pet rather than shopping for one. If clients still want to purchase a puppy, they should be aware of Lucy's Law that came into force in April 2020 regarding the sale of puppies [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present review aims toward a better understanding of the nutrition of newborn puppies and kittens. The post-natal period is very sensitive in dogs and cats, as in other animal species. During the first two weeks of life, puppies and kittens are at high risk of dehydration, hypothermia, and hypoglycemia, as well as infectious diseases as they start to acquire the physiological functions of the adult. Neonatal hepatic glycogen storage is low, and newborns depend on colostrum intake to survive. Colostrum provides immunoglobulins and other important substances such as lipids and carbohydrates. Immunoglobulins are central to the immunological link that occurs when the mother transfers passive immunity. The mechanism of transfer varies among mammalian species, but in this review, we focused our attention on dogs and cats. Furthermore, there are components of colostrum which, although their presence is not absolutely necessary, play an important role in nutrition. These components have received considerable interest because of their presumed safety and potential nutritional and therapeutic effects both in humans and animals; however, unfortunately, there are few recent studies in companion animals. Here, we have gathered the published articles that describe studies involving different species of animals, emphasizing companion animals. In particular, the purpose of this narrative of the nutritional and functional proprieties of queens’ and bitches’ colostrum.

Birth and the first few weeks of age are critical periods of developing the immune system of puppies and kittens and adapting to an environment containing a variety of infectious agents. The survival rate during these periods depends mainly on the newborn's immune capacity to prevent and combat infections. Although most components of innate and adaptive immunity are present at birth, responses are slow and immature compared to adults. Due to immunological immaturity and the endotheliochorial placental structure, circulating concentrations of immunoglobulins in dogs and cats at birth are quite low. Thus, newborns need a prompt and immediate immune response, which is essentially provided by defense cells and maternal antibodies via colostrum. Failure to ingest colostrum is correlated with high mortality rates in the neonatal period. Concurrently, factors related to pregnant, such as pregnancy physiological immunosuppression and nutritional and health states, can directly influence newborn immunity and health. Therefore, understanding the maternal and neonatal immunological aspects, importance of colostrum, risk factors for failure to transfer passive immunity and colostrum substitute strategies are essential to ensure the survival of the litter. • The immune development of dogs and cats begins in fetal life; • Pregnant bitch and queen have physiological immunosuppression during pregnancy; • Newborn puppies and kittens have a functional but immature immune system; • The innate and adaptive defenses of the newborn produce a lower response compared to adults; • Neonates are dependent on colostrum ingestion for an adequate immune response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective-To evaluate signalment, clinical findings, surgical treatment, and long-term outcomes in puppies and kittens after surgical repair of various types of atresia ani (AA) with or without concomitant anogenital or rectogenital malformations. Design-Retrospective case series. Animals-11 puppies and 1 kitten. Procedures-Medical records of 2 veterinary teaching hospitals were reviewed for puppies and kittens that underwent surgical treatment for AA. Information regarding signalment, diagnosis, surgical procedures, follow-up time, and outcome was recorded. A previously described classification scheme was used to classify AA as type I, II, III, or IV. Follow-up times and outcomes were evaluated. Results-AA was classified as type I in 3 animals, type II in 6, and type III in 3. Nine of 12 patients had anogenital or rectogenital malformations; 8 of these had rectovaginal fistulas. Eleven animals underwent in situ anoplasty, and 1 underwent surgery in which the rectovaginal fistula was used for anal reconstruction. Six also underwent balloon dilation for treatment of anal stenosis, and revision anoplasty was performed in 5. All patients with type I or II AA survived ≥ 1 year. Two puppies with type III AA were euthanized 3 and 40 days after surgery. Follow-up time for the remaining 10 patients ranged from 12 to 92 months, and 3 had fecal incontinence. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Surgical repair of type I or II AA resulted in longterm survival and fecal continence in most cases. Although numbers were small, patients with type III AA had poorer outcomes than did those with type I or II AA. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2012;240: 186-192) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: To maximize their capacity to save lives and optimize resource allocation, animal shelters need to identify highly adoptable animals that are unlikely to be delayed on medical grounds before they can be made available for adoption. In this retrospective cohort study, our objective was to identify risk factors for delays from intake to approval for adoption on medical grounds in shelter puppies and kittens. Shelter medical records from 2008 for 335 puppies and 370 kittens were selected randomly at a large metropolitan adoption-guarantee shelter. Data including signalment, source shelter, intake veterinary examination findings, clinical history and days from intake until approval by a veterinarian for adoption on medical grounds were extracted from shelter records and analyzed using multivariate Cox regression. Puppies and kittens with clinical signs of respiratory or gastrointestinal disease at intake took significantly longer to receive approval for adoption on medical grounds (puppies – respiratory p <0.0001; gastrointestinal p <0.0001; kittens – respiratory p <0.0001; gastrointestinal p =0.002). Stray kittens were more likely to be delayed than owner-relinquished kittens or those transferred from other shelters (p <0.01). Older kittens were less likely to be delayed (p <0.0001). Administration of oral or parenteral antibiotics to puppies and kittens with respiratory and/or ocular signs within 24h of intake significantly reduced time to approval on medical grounds for adoption (puppies p =0.02; kittens p =0.03). The analyses suggested that puppies and kittens with respiratory or gastrointestinal signs on intake are more likely to experience delays between intake and veterinary approval for adoption on medical grounds. Prompt antimicrobial treatment of animals with respiratory and/or ocular signs may decrease length of stay in the shelter. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Backwords: Urolithiasis is a disease that can occur alone or together, obstruct the urinary flow, and even progress to the animal's death. Objective: The present study is to report the dissolution of calculus in the ureter in a kitten. Methodology: a feline, SRD, male, started at 3 months old with the signs of vomiting, constipation, and hematuria, presenting leukocytosis and increased serum urea. Two abdominal ultrasounds were performed 30 days apart and the third at 3 months. Results: In the first ultrasound there was hydronephrosis in the right kidney and dilation of the ureter and microlithiasis in the urinary bladder. The animal had already been treated with antibiotic therapy and did not improve. Given these characteristics, Cantharis Vesicatoria 30cH was administered, there was no more hematuria and when the drug was discontinued, the symptom returned. After 30 days of starting homeopathic treatment, we repeated the ultrasound which showed 2 kidney stones, and a urinary bladder with cystitis associated with sandy lithiasis. Berberis Vulgaris 30cH was then administered for 15 days, after which both drugs were discontinued and the animal remained asymptomatic. After 3 months the ultrasound was repeated which showed 2 kidney stones, Causticum 6cH was inserted for 14 days to dissolve kidney stones, thus preventing the return of the initial symptoms. Conclusion: the treatment was beneficial for the patient, who was asymptomatic after the use of Causticum. Considering the natural history of the disease in cats and the high chance of recurrence of the disease, the recommendation was to monitor the organs through an annual ultrasound examination, in addition to encouraging water intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A three-week-old Devon rex kitten and a four-week-old English bulldog puppy were presented with “swimmer syndrome”. The owners consulted several veterinarians who suggested euthanasia as the only possible solution for this condition. Physiotherapy in the puppy, and physiotherapy and bandaging in the kitten led to the resolution of the clinical signs and resulted in normal ambulation after several weeks. The authors concluded that intensive physiotherapy and dedication of the owner can lead to success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses initial therapy for fading puppies and kittens. Supplemental warmth; Dextrose; Blood transfusion.

Discusses the process of evaluating fading puppies and kittens. History records of puppies and kittens needed in the evaluation; Equipment for neonatal evaluation, including gram scale; Average rectal temperature of a dry neonate.

Discusses the causes of fading puppy and kitten syndrome. Hypothermia; Environmental toxins; Birth weight.

Simple Summary: The post-natal period is a crucial time for all animal species. During the course of their first two weeks of life, puppies and kittens face several risks to their health due to their scarce energy storage and weak immune system. Colostrum is the first production of the mammary glands that plays a pivotal role for puppies and kittens. Colostrum is an important source of immunoglobulins and key nutrients such as lipids and carbohydrates, which are fundamental for the health of newborns. Puppies and kittens must ingest a sufficient amount of colostrum within a few hours of birth to ensure their survival. On the other hand, there are some particular compounds that are not strictly essential, but their presence may play an important role in nutrition and health. As there are no recent studies on companion animals, we have reported published articles describing animal studies in different species to review the nutrition of newborn mammals, with particular emphasis on companion animals. The present review aims toward a better understanding of the nutrition of newborn puppies and kittens. The post-natal period is very sensitive in dogs and cats, as in other animal species. During the first two weeks of life, puppies and kittens are at high risk of dehydration, hypothermia, and hypoglycemia, as well as infectious diseases as they start to acquire the physiological functions of the adult. Neonatal hepatic glycogen storage is low, and newborns depend on colostrum intake to survive. Colostrum provides immunoglobulins and other important substances such as lipids and carbohydrates. Immunoglobulins are central to the immunological link that occurs when the mother transfers passive immunity. The mechanism of transfer varies among mammalian species, but in this review, we focused our attention on dogs and cats. Furthermore, there are components of colostrum which, although their presence is not absolutely necessary, play an important role in nutrition. These components have received considerable interest because of their presumed safety and potential nutritional and therapeutic effects both in humans and animals; however, unfortunately, there are few recent studies in companion animals. Here, we have gathered the published articles that describe studies involving different species of animals, emphasizing companion animals. In particular, the purpose of this narrative of the nutritional and functional proprieties of queens' and bitches' colostrum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article cites a study on the handrearing of orphaned puppies and kittens where newly developed commercial milk replacers and a "home-made" milk replacer for kittens were also evaluated. Four mongrels were handreared with canine milk replacer, while four beagle puppies and 8 kittens were handreared with feline milk replacer and two kittens with a "home-made" milk replacer. One of the results revealed that beagles compensated for the lower energy content with an increased intake of milk replacer. It also showed that nutrient content of the two milk replacers used in kitten rearing trials differed in fat and energy content.