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Introduction: Feline calicivirus (FCV) commonly causes upper respiratory tract, oral and ocular infections in species of the family Felidae, with high prevalence amongst domestic cat (Felis catus) populations worldwide. Detection of FCV‐specific antibodies in serum provides evidence of previous infection with FCV and an indication of whether a cat may be protected against clinical FCV disease. This study describes the most extensive sampling for anti‐FCV antibodies in feral and stray cat populations in Australia, and examines variation in prevalence associated with cat age, sex and location. Methods: Blood samples were opportunistically collected from 669 feral, stray or Indigenous community cats from the Northern Territory, South Australia, Victoria, south‐east Tasmania and south‐west New South Wales. The sera were harvested and tested for antibodies capable of neutralising the FCV vaccine strain F9 by serum‐virus neutralisation assay. Results: Of the 669 cats tested, 69.7% had detectable FCV‐F9‐neutralising antibodies (titres ≥5). Maturity was significantly associated with higher seroprevalence and higher antibody titres, with adult cats being more than twice as likely to have detectable FCV‐neutralising antibodies than subadults. Male cats had a higher seroprevalence and slightly higher antibody titres than females. Cats living in closer proximity to humans had significantly higher seroprevalences and higher FCV‐neutralising antibody titres than feral cats from more remote regions of Australia. Conclusion: Australian feral and stray cats have a high risk of natural exposure to and infection with FCV, with the prevalence and levels of pre‐existing immunity to FCV being highest amongst adult cats living in highly modified urban, peri‐urban and agricultural environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extrinsic thoracic limb muscles are a muscular group that supports the thoracic limb in mammals without the clavicle and serve to move the scapula and shoulder joint. However, there are few evolutionary studies of these muscles in Felis catus, which should take into account the topology and innervation of the muscles to hypothesize the muscle derivation from a common ancestor. The main objective of this study was to check the extrinsic thoracic limb muscles in ten cadavers. Intra‐ and interspecific anatomical variants were found with that formerly described and other felids. Based on the topology and innervation found in this study, the evolutionary derivation was hypothesized. Therefore, the omotransversarius and rhomboideus muscles are derived from the serratus ventralis cervicis muscle. The cleidobrachialis muscle is derived mainly from the m. deltoideus and accessorily from the supracoracoid muscular group. The pectoantebrachialis and pectoralis abdominalis muscles are derived from the pectoralis descendens and cutaneus trunci muscles, respectively. In conclusion, most extrinsic thoracic limb muscles of F. catus may have evolutionary derivations from the last common ancestor of mammals, while some of them are from the last common ancestor of carnivorans or within the family Felidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sand cats, Felis margarita, range from northern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula to Central Asia. Their apparently discontinuous distribution is recognized as comprising four subspecies. Recent genetic research found little differentiation between subspecies except for the North African form. In this study, 90 skins and 88 skulls were analyzed from the four subspecies. A discriminant function analysis of the scores, ranging from 1 to 4, of four pelage characteristics revealed differentiation between putative subspecies, except between Turkmenian and Pakistani sand cats. Northern African and Arabian sand cats tend to be spotted and striped, while Turkmenian and Pakistani sand cats are less spotted and have a dorsal crest of fur. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) models generated from 21 skull measurements revealed an overlap in morphospace between all subspecies, except for larger Turkmenian sand cats; northern African sand cats were smallest. Therefore, both pelage characteristics and skull morphometrics support up to three subspecies. However, considering recent genetic research, it is likely that two subspecies should be recognized, F. m. margarita from northern Africa and F. m. thinobia from the Arabian Peninsula, and Southwest and Central Asia. Widening of the dataset and nuclear DNA evidence are required to increase our understanding of geographical variation in this little studied species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: "Declawing" is the surgery in which the bone underneath the claw is removed entirely or in part. This has been shown to have substantial effects on the forearm muscles of members of the cat family, but no one has previously examined how it affects other species or the hindlimb. In this study, we examine the leg and forearm muscles of a kinkajou (a Central/South American tree-climbing relative of the raccoon) that was declawed on all four limbs and compare it to several kinkajous that were not declawed and to the previous cat findings. As expected, some of the declawed kinkajou's muscles were substantially different from those of the intact specimens, and as was seen in the cats, the muscles that normally attach to its claw bones appear to have been weaker. Surprisingly, the declawed kinkajou had larger forearm muscles and, even though its toe claws had also been removed, its hindlimb muscles were not very different—possibly because kinkajous rely more on their hands than their feet. Future studies should examine other declawed kinkajous and how this surgery affects other species, like kinkajou relatives that don't climb as much or other species, like monkeys, that do climb like kinkajous. Recently, onychectomy, the "declaw" surgery in which all or part of the distal phalanges are removed, has been shown to have significant effects on the forearm muscles of felids. While this surgery should clearly affect the limb muscles (especially those that insert on the removed or modified bone), these effects have not been studied beyond felids or in the hindlimb. To that end, we herein evaluated the muscle architecture of a kinkajou (Potos flavus) that was declawed on all four of its limbs and compared its anatomy to that of intact specimens and the felid findings. As expected, some of the declawed kinkajou's muscles were substantially different from those of the intact specimens, and as was seen in felids, its digital muscles appear to have been weaker. However, unlike in the felids, the declawed kinkajou had relatively larger forearm muscles. Also, contrary to expectation, the leg muscles of the declawed kinkajou were not substantially different, perhaps reflecting important differences in limb use. Future analyses should examine this anatomy in other declawed kinkajou specimens and also look at the effects of this surgery in other taxa, for instance, non-arboreal relatives of the kinkajou as well as other arboreal taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study presents an integrated conservation framework for the globally threatened fishing cat, synthesizing both ex situ management and in situ strategies. The strategy aligns with the One Plan Approach, which views captive populations as part of a broader metapopulation network, and the Opportunities to Thrive framework, which emphasizes animal welfare in captivity. This study analyzed the genetic diversity of a recently initiated fishing cat captive breeding population by the West Bengal Zoo Authority, India, and conducted a population viability analysis. The results suggest that the current genetic diversity (56%) and population carrying capacity (30 individuals) can be sustained for over 100 years through a strategy of supplementation and harvesting. Introducing two adult males and females annually will allow for sustainable harvesting to supplement wild populations. Additionally, this study identified 21 potential reintroduction zones in the Sundarbans and Terai regions of West Bengal, using environmental criteria that favor fishing cat occurrence. This work offers a comprehensive blueprint for applying the One Plan Approach to ensure the long-term survival of the fishing cat. The One Plan Approach advocates for a hybrid species management framework, wherein captive-bred populations are considered metapopulations nested within a broader network of zoos and wild populations Additionally, the Opportunities to Thrive framework aims to enhance animal welfare by addressing the physiological, psychological, and emotional needs of captive individuals, thereby improving conservation outcomes. Here, we present an integrated framework for the conservation of a globally threatened wetland wild cat species, the fishing cat, by synthesizing optimal ex situ management practices and in situ conservation strategies. Further, we examined the genetic constitution of the founder population in a fishing cat captive breeding program that was recently initiated by the West Bengal Zoo Authority, India and conducted a population viability analysis to suggest how best to maintain the genetic diversity of the population. We found that the present genetic diversity of 56% and maximum carrying capacity of the captive population (30 individuals) can be maintained for more than 100 years with a combination of supplementation and harvesting. Keeping stochastic events in mind, the introduction of two adult males and females to the existing population each year will seamlessly allow the harvesting of two adult males and two adult females every alternate year to supplement wild populations. Further, we adopted the proposed integrated framework to delineate recommendations for the supplementation of wild populations in West Bengal. We used environmental criteria known to influence fishing cat occurrence to identify 21 potential reintroduction zones in the Sundarbans landscape and Terai region in northern West Bengal with habitable areas for the fishing cat that are larger than the maximum known species' home range. Our study is timely and insightful because it provides a holistic blueprint for implementing the One Plan Approach in safeguarding a threatened species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of behaviors surrounding reproduction in wild species is essential to the development of effective management and conservation strategies. Many carnivores use dens to increase the safety and survival of their neonatal young while females shift to central-place foraging to meet the energetic demands of raising young. Caracals (Caracal caracal), a medium-size wild cat, have a widespread geographic distribution but limited information from minimal observations exists on the behaviors associated with denning and caring for young. We report observations of dens used by four caracals in the surrounds of Cape Town, South Africa, including the duration of den use, maternal home ranges, and movements away from dens. Three of four females established denning in September and one in December, suggesting a birth pulse during the Southern Hemisphere spring and summer. Of seven den sites we documented, six were in dense shrubland fynbos vegetation and one among boulders; all of which had thick overhead cover. Females and neonatal young used 1–3 primary dens for approximately six weeks, followed by the use of short-term auxiliary dens. Female maternal home ranges were approximately 31% the size of their home ranges estimated using all their data. Trips away from the dens averaged 12 h while the average maximum distances across all trips away from dens for each female was 1135 m (range = 801–1327 m). Our observations inform our understanding of the timing and physical characteristics of caracal dens and help fill research gaps on the natural history of caracal denning behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many mammal species have declining populations, but the consequences of small population size on the genomic makeup of species remain largely unknown. We investigated the evolutionary history, genetic load and adaptive potential of the Cat Ba langur (Trachypithecus poliocephalus), a primate species endemic to Vietnam's famous Ha Long Bay and with less than 100 living individuals one of the most threatened primates in the world. Using high-coverage whole genome data of four wild individuals, we revealed the Cat Ba langur as sister species to its conspecifics of the northern limestone langur clade and found no evidence for extensive secondary gene flow after their initial separation. Compared to other primates and mammals, the Cat Ba langur showed low levels of genetic diversity, long runs of homozygosity, high levels of inbreeding and an excess of deleterious mutations in homozygous state. On the other hand, genetic diversity has been maintained in protein-coding genes and on the gene-rich human chromosome 19 ortholog, suggesting that the Cat Ba langur retained most of its adaptive potential. The Cat Ba langur also exhibits several unique non-synonymous variants that are related to calcium and sodium metabolism, which may have improved adaptation to high calcium intake and saltwater consumption. Fewer than 100 wild Cat Ba langurs survive in Vietnam. Here, the authors use whole genome sequencing to demonstrate potential adaptations to saltwater consumption as well as maintenance of adaptive potential despite low levels of genetic diversity and high levels of inbreeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most pressing issues in livestock farming is the protection of economically valuable livestock. The prevention and the treatment of infectious diseases are directly related to maintaining stable livestock output. Vermin is a primary source of livestock infection, resulting in the occurrence and expansion of epidemic diseases. To protect livestock against infections caused by epidemic diseases, this study proposes a vermin repulsion system called the Miyazaki Vermin Repulsion Robot (MiVeReR). Different from existing vermin repulsion systems, the development objective of MiVeReR is to repel vermin rather than kill them. In particular, MiVeReR generates changeable acousto-optic signals as repulsion signals for wild animals. Furthermore, MiVeReR employs image data to monitor the invasion of wild animals and their location data to track them, and accurately focuses the generated signals on them. These acousto-optic stimuli can be changed based on the reactions of the intruder through the feedback of the image data to ensure the effectiveness of the repulsion motions for vermin. Details on the hardware configuration of MiVeReR and its control scheme are explained. As a first step to develop MiVeReR, we attempted to repel vermin such as mice and wild cats from farm environments. Extensive experiments were conducted to verify the effectiveness of MiVeReR and the proposed control solution. Through experiments in wild environments, the feasibility of MiVeReR was inspected. The results of this study are concretely described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Human activities have led to significant global habitat degradation and fragmentation. However, some carnivores have adapted to these conditions and are expanding, leading to closer coexistence with humans and potential conflicts. This study analysed over 350 sightings of the European wildcat (Felis silvestris) in NW Spain over 17 years to develop suitability models based on environmental, topographic, climatic, and human impact factors. Using MaxEnt, the study predicted the species' potential regional distribution. The results revealed that less than a third of the suitable areas for wildcats had confirmed their presence. Elevation, forested area percentage, and footpath density were key factors influencing wildcat presence, with the first two having positive effects and footpath density having a negative impact. The wildcats' preference for high and forested areas likely relates to food availability, while avoiding footpaths is linked to human-related mortality. These findings provide insights for conservation strategies to protect the species. Human activities have resulted in severe habitat degradation and fragmentation at a global scale. Despite this scenario, some carnivore species that adapted to the new conditions are expanding, leading to close coexistence with humans and the emergence of potential conflicts. In this work, we used a European wildcat (Felis silvestris) observations database of more than 350 sightings over 17 years in NW Spain to build suitability models based on environmental, topographic, climatic, and human impact variables. MaxEnt was used to analyse the availability of suitable habitats for the species at a regional scale. Our results showed that less than one third of the suitable area for the species had confirmed wildcat presence. Elevation, the percentage of forested area, and footpath density were the three main variables conditioning wildcat presence, with the first two variables having positive effects and footpath density negatively affecting wildcat presence. The selection of high areas and forest areas by the species seems to be related to food availability, while the avoidance of footpaths seems to be related to the fact that main mortality causes are linked to human disturbances. The results enhance the understanding of the European wildcat ecology and provide insight into potential management plans to ensure the conservation of one of the main populations of the species throughout its range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Montane cloud forests are highly threatened ecosystems that are vulnerable to climate change. These complex habitats harbor many species that suffer the negative consequences of this global phenomenon, such as shifts in their distribution and habitat use. The Central American clouded oncilla (Leopardus pardinoides oncilla) is the smallest and most endangered wild cat in Mesoamerica and is primarily reported in cloud forests throughout its distribution. The species is poorly understood, with no studies conducted in Central America assessing its habitat preferences. To bridge this knowledge gap, we sampled two mountain ranges in Costa Rica with camera traps and conducted an occupancy analysis to understand the anthropogenic and environmental features that influence oncilla habitat use within them. Additionally, we conducted spatial predictions of habitat use across its northern and southern range in Costa Rica to identify priority conservation areas for the species. We found that Central American clouded oncilla habitat use is driven primarily by environmental factors. Our results showed that oncillas select habitats with denser tree cover at high elevations, closer to permanent water sources, which may provide them with high prey density and a favorable habitat structure for their survival. Spatial predictions identified two main regions as conservation priority areas where threat mitigation efforts and monitoring should be implemented: the Caribbean slope of the Talamanca mountains, and the Arenal-Monteverde forest complex. The occupancy modeling approach turned out to be very useful to assess the spatial associations of the species with the environment and mapping the conservation priority areas. Future research and mitigation actions should focus on potential threats that could negatively impact Central American clouded oncilla populations and habitat use, including the role of mesopredators and feral species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxoplasmosis is a common cosmopolitan parasitic zoonosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii. Most often asymptomatic, toxoplasmosis can be serious for the foetus if it occurs during pregnancy. The objective of this study was to estimate the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis among female students to contribute to the knowledge of the epidemiology of this disease. We conducted a cross-sectional study on female medical students in Bouake. The students were included after obtaining informed consent and were interviewed about their socio-demographic characteristics, gynaeco-obstetric history, factors favouring toxoplasmosis, and blood samples were collected. The samples were analysed by ELISA at the Bouake University Hospital laboratory. The collected data were entered and analysed using Word, Excel 2013, and Epi Info 7. The 168 female students included had an average age of 24 years, were married (6%), had a history of pregnancy (23.8%), were nulliparous (91.7%), had a cat (39.3%), and ate undercooked meat (72%). An overall seroprevalence of 67.9% was observed, of which 66.7% was IgG and 3.6% IgM. There was a statistically significant relationship between anti-toxoplasma seropositivity, age and the presence of a cat in the family. The overall seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis among female students at the Bouake Medical Sciences training and research unit was high. Therefore, students whose serology was negative should be made aware of the need to have a check-up in the event of pregnancy, so that appropriate measures can be taken as soon as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: To date, there are very few studies of the bony nasal cavity of the domestic cat and even fewer of big felids. A detailed and exhaustive anatomical study of this cavity in the domestic cat is presented in this paper through dissections, trepanations and anatomical sections. This work has allowed to delve deeper into the anatomy of the bony nasal cavity. This study deepens the knowledge of this region through diagnostic imaging techniques, such as computed tomography, three-dimensional reconstruction in maximum-intensity projection and volume rendering, that allow for the spatial visualization of this cavity. These reconstructed images represent an improvement in the anatomical study of the cavity and will help veterinary clinicians in the diagnosis of nasal pathologies. Obtaining molds by three-dimensional printing allows for acquiring models very close to reality that capture these structures in detail. These techniques, which in human medicine have already led to many clinical and therapeutic improvements, are a very useful tool in veterinary medicine that will lead to advances and improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of nasal pathologies, improving the survival of many threatened species. This study aims to develop three-dimensional printing models of the bony nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses of big and domestic cats using reconstructed computed tomographic images. This work included an exhaustive study of the osseous nasal anatomy of the domestic cat carried out through dissections, bone trepanations and sectional anatomy. With the use of OsiriX viewer, the DICOM images were postprocessed to obtaining maximum-intensity projection and volume-rendering reconstructions, which allowed for the visualization of the nasal cavity structures and the paranasal sinuses, providing an improvement in the future anatomical studies and diagnosis of pathologies. DICOM images were also processed with AMIRA software to obtain three-dimensional images using semiautomatic segmentation application. These images were then exported using 3D Slicer software for three-dimensional printing. Molds were printed with the Stratasys 3D printer. In human medicine, three-dimensional printing is already of great importance in the clinical field; however, it has not yet been implemented in veterinary medicine and is a technique that will, in the future, in addition to facilitating the anatomical study and diagnosis of diseases, allow for the development of implants that will improve the treatment of pathologies and the survival of big felids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes is a complex disease and is usually accompanied by other diseases and complications. Diabetes and the accompanying chronic hyperglycemia often cause other diseases. Knowledge of feline diabetes in everyday practice is crucial. The goal of treating diabetes in cats is to achieve remission, reduce or eliminate the clinical symptoms of the disease, and improve the animal's quality of life. In order to achieve therapeutic success, cooperation between the veterinarian and the owner is very important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial overlap between wildlife and related domestic animals can lead to disease transmission, with substantial evidence for viral and bacterial spillover. Domestic and wild animals can also share potentially harmful helminth parasites, many of which have environmental transmission stages that do not require direct contact between hosts. We used camera traps, fecal sampling, and mathematical modeling to evaluate the potential for hookworm parasites to spillover from domestic dogs to wild cats in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica. Traditional microscopy was found to be more sensitive than DNA‐based diagnostics for parasites, though the methods were complementary. We found high hookworm (Ancylostoma spp.) prevalence in domestic dogs (74.2%, 95% CI: 67.0%–80.7%, N = 155), and considerable spatial overlap with ocelots (Leopardus pardalis) and pumas (Puma concolor), particularly on trails and dirt roads. Pumas had hookworm prevalence of 36.4% (18.6%–57.2%, N = 22), and ocelots had 27.3% (7.6%–56.5%, N = 11); however, molecular identification of these parasites was inconclusive. We developed a macroparasite transmission model to infer the likelihood of spillover, compared with separate parasite cycles, or different parasite species in each host. According to the model, spillover of hookworm from dogs would lead to a prevalence of less than 10% in wild hosts. Low presumed compatibility between wild hosts and parasites adapted to domestic species limits the prevalence that could be reached in wild species, even under potentially higher overlap. The prevalence observed was more consistent with a model that assumes hookworms in wild cats in the Osa are a cat‐specific parasite. The combination of parasitology, molecular diagnostics, and mathematical modeling used here could complement wildlife disease monitoring programs worldwide to shed light on understudied helminth–host dynamics at the domestic–wild animal interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indochinese leopard, Panthera pardus delacouri is classified as Critically Endangered in the Red List of Threatened Species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The subspecies has been recorded for the first time in Ulu Sat Permanent Forest Reserve (USPFR). Camera trap records show the presence of a female melanistic leopard, which is of additional biological interest. It is hoped that these observations will stimulate long-term studies on leopards of USPFR and promote conservation efforts in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immobilisation and anaesthesia of wild felids may be complex and potentially dangerous events, making it difficult to implement more advanced anaesthetic techniques such as neuraxial anaesthesia. A Eurasian lynx was referred for femur fracture repair after it was seen with lameness of the left pelvic limb sustained in its natural environment. The animal was remotely darted using a combination of ketamine (5 mg/kg) and xylazine (5 mg/kg) intramuscularly. Once immobilised, the lynx was transported to the veterinary hospital in a restraining cage. After induction and endotracheal intubation, pelvic limb radiographs confirmed a closed, comminuted fracture of the left femur that required open reduction and internal stabilisation. A sacrococcygeal epidural was performed before surgery using lidocaine (2 mg/kg) and morphine (0.1 mg/kg) to complement the ketamine–xylazine–isoflurane anaesthesia, which allows a low‐end‐tidal isoflurane concentration. Clinical signs were continuously monitored and remained stable during the entire procedure, with the exception of a temperature that decreased to 35.8°C. No intraoperative analgesic rescues were necessary. Recovery was smooth and uneventful. The lynx showed no signs of motor weakness after surgery or other side effects related to the anaesthetic procedure. The successful management of this surgical case suggests that the described anaesthetic protocol could be recommended in orthopaedic procedures of the pelvic limbs in wild Felidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunosuppressive drugs are the mainstay of treatment for many feline and canine autoimmune skin diseases, either as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs. Treatment with these drugs is often lifelong and may have long‐term consequences on the affected animal's overall quality‐of‐life. Clinicians need to understand the pharmacology of immunosuppressants in planning and executing the treatment regimen for the best possible clinical outcome, as well as reducing the risk of adverse effects. This review paper will focus on the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, clinical uses and adverse effects of immunosuppressive drugs used to treat autoimmune dermatoses in cats and dogs. These include glucocorticoids, ciclosporin A, azathioprine, chlorambucil, mycophenolate mofetil, oclacitinib and Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rabies virus (RABV) is the etiologic agent of rabies, a fatal brain disease in mammals. Rabies circulation has historically involved the dog has the main source of human rabies worldwide. Nevertheless, in Colombia, cats (Felis catus) have become a relevant species in the epidemiology of rabies. Aims: To characterize rabies cases in humans in Colombia in the last three decades in the context of the epidemiology of the aggressor animal. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective longitudinal epidemiological study of human rabies caused by cats' aggression, collecting primary and secondary information. Variables considered included the demography of the patient, symptoms, information about the aggressor animal as the source of infection and the viral variant identified. Results: We found that the distribution of rabies incidence over the years has been constant in Colombia. Nevertheless, between 2003 and 2012 a peak of cases occurred in rural Colombia where cats were the most frequent aggressor animal reported. Most cats involved in aggression were unvaccinated against rabies. Cat's clinical signs at the time of the report of the human cases included hypersalivation and changes in behaviour. Human patients were mostly children and female and the exposure primarily corresponded to bite and puncture lacerations in hands. The RABV lineage detected in most cases corresponded to variant 3, linked to the common vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus). The geographical presentation of cat borne RABV in humans occurred along the Andes mountains, epidemiologically known as the rabies red Andean corridor. Discussion: By finding cats as the primary source of rabies spillover transmission in Colombia, this report highlights the importance of revising national rabies control and prevention protocol in countries in the Andes region. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that rabies vaccination for outdoor cats needs to prioritize to reduce the number of rabies‐related human deaths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to know the profile of Brazilian cat owners and their perceptions of responsible ownership and the veterinary care environment. The application of a semi-structured online questionnaire investigating the owner's socioeconomic level and perception of knowledge concerning health care and history of medical-veterinary care of their cats using the snowball method. A total of 5,213 participants were included, of which: 93% were women, 52% were single and lived in urban areas (96%). Fifty nine per cent of the owners answered that their cat is taken to the veterinary care service only when it shows a clinical sign and 65% of them feel anxious when they need to take their cats to the vet. Only 1% of the owner did not consider the cat as a family member. Concerning the veterinary care scenario, 40% of the owners answered that at least once, that their cat(s) had been handled inappropriately by veterinary service professionals, and they believed that low affinity with the species and excessive restraint were the main causes for this misconduct. Around 40% of the owners had already changed their veterinarian because of this inappropriate interaction/handling. Conclusion and relevance the data presented point to the importance of implementing and improving friendly and gentle care practices with cats and their owners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non‐invasive genetic sampling is an increasingly common approach in wildlife research. It allows the gathering of first‐hand data on wild mammalian populations without capturing or handling individuals. For this reason, it has proved to be particularly useful when applied to elusive species living at low population densities and/or hard to identify in the field. The European wildcat represents an interesting case study in this respect. Several papers have been produced in the last decades, in which non‐invasive genetic sampling has been applied. Nevertheless, evidence from different case studies presents a complex scenario, where the efficiency of the method can vary considerably. This paper aimed to analyse possible interpretations of such differences and to identify potential drivers and barriers. 20 papers on the subject have been reviewed and compared, although differences in several details reported in the examined papers limited an in‐depth comparison. The review showed that the overlap of the study period with the reproductive season does not affect the final results of lure stick hair sampling research on the European wildcat. Moreover, valerian lure sticks generally provided positive results in the Continental ecoregion, whereas, in the Mediterranean and Atlantic regions, outcomes were absent or very scarce. Most of the other working hypotheses remain still plausible, despite not yet being definitely provable. Setting up future wildcat monitoring schemes based on effective non‐invasive genetic sampling in different biogeographical regions of Europe is certainly a scope to be pursued. Some suggestions are provided in this respect (e.g. the set of parameters needed to allow further comparisons; the need to test other types of attractants, to make the application of the method possible where the use of valerian was proven to be inefficient or scarcely efficient, in order to allow a better comparison of future results). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Canopy mammals constitute a diverse and widely distributed group. However, these species have not been widely studied, and there are currently many gaps in our knowledge of their ecology, behaviour, distribution, and conservation status. We identified crucial trends and omissions in terms of research effort on research themes, taxonomic groups, countries, and protected areas (PAs) and geographic information biases. A systematic review was conducted by consulting two electronic databases (Web of Science and Scopus), including research conducted within neotropical countries (from central Mexico to northern Argentina) until the end of the first half of 2021. All the references obtained were reviewed and categorised, and the geographical location of each study was extracted to evaluate geographical gaps. We found that two orders (Carnivora and Didelphimorphia) and three families (Didelphidae, Felidae, and Cricetidae) were the most studied taxa, and were featured in more than 50% of cases. Brazil had the highest number of studies. Topics concerning diseases (19% of cases), distribution (14%), and ecology (14%) were the most frequently addressed; only 4.6% of the studies focused on anthropogenic disturbances, and less than 30% of the studies were conducted within PAs. We found that one of the largest and most important geographical biases in knowledge was in the northern Amazon region, where the number of studies was low or null. This study lays the groundwork for future research on these understudied mammals, to develop better research that can allow us to design more appropriate conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To systematically review evidence on and devise treatment recommendations for patient monitoring before, during, and following CPR in dogs and cats, and to identify critical knowledge gaps. Design: Standardized, systematic evaluation of literature pertinent to peri‐CPR monitoring following Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Prioritized questions were each reviewed by Evidence Evaluators, and findings were reconciled by Monitoring Domain Chairs and Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) Co‐Chairs to arrive at treatment recommendations commensurate to quality of evidence, risk:benefit relationship, and clinical feasibility. This process was implemented using an Evidence Profile Worksheet for each question that included an introduction, consensus on science, treatment recommendations, justification for these recommendations, and important knowledge gaps. A draft of these worksheets was distributed to veterinary professionals for comment for 4 weeks prior to finalization. Setting: Transdisciplinary, international collaboration in university, specialty, and emergency practice. Results: Thirteen questions pertaining to hemodynamic, respiratory, and metabolic monitoring practices for identification of cardiopulmonary arrest, quality of CPR, and postcardiac arrest care were examined, and 24 treatment recommendations were formulated. Of these, 5 recommendations pertained to aspects of end‐tidal CO2 (ETco2) measurement. The recommendations were founded predominantly on very low quality of evidence, with some based on expert opinion. Conclusions: The Monitoring Domain authors continue to support initiation of chest compressions without pulse palpation. We recommend multimodal monitoring of patients at risk of cardiopulmonary arrest, at risk of re‐arrest, or under general anesthesia. This report highlights the utility of ETco2 monitoring to verify correct intubation, identify return of spontaneous circulation, evaluate quality of CPR, and guide basic life support measures. Treatment recommendations further suggest intra‐arrest evaluation of electrolytes (ie, potassium and calcium), as these may inform outcome‐relevant interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: After the 2012 Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) CPR Guidelines, this is an update of evidence‐based consensus guidelines for Basic Life Support (BLS), advanced life support (ALS), and periarrest monitoring. Design: These RECOVER CPR Guidelines were generated using a modified version of the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system for evidence evaluation and translation of this evidence into clear and actionable clinical instructions. Prioritized clinical questions in the Population, Intervention, Comparator, and Outcome (PICO) format were used as the basis to conduct systematic literature searches by information specialists, to extract information from relevant publications, to assess this evidence for quality, and finally to translate the findings into treatment recommendations. These recommendations were reviewed by the RECOVER writing group and opened for comment by veterinary professionals for 4 weeks. Setting: Transdisciplinary, international collaboration in university, specialty, and emergency practice. Results: A total of 40 worksheets were prepared to evaluate questions across the 3 domains of BLS, ALS and Monitoring, resulting in 90 individual treatment recommendations. High‐dose epinephrine is no longer recommended, and atropine, if used, is only administered once. Bag–mask ventilation is prioritized over mouth‐to‐nose ventilation in nonintubated animals. In addition, an algorithm for initial assessment, an updated CPR algorithm, a rhythm diagnosis tool, and an updated drug dosing table are provided. Conclusions: While the majority of the BLS and ALS recommendations remain unchanged, some noteworthy changes were made due to new evidence that emerged over the past 10 years. Indirectness of evidence remains the largest impediment to the certainty of guidelines formulation and underscores an urgent need for more studies in the target species of dogs and cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To systematically review evidence and devise treatment recommendations for basic life support (BLS) in dogs and cats and to identify critical knowledge gaps. Design: Standardized, systematic evaluation of literature pertinent to BLS following Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Prioritized questions were each reviewed by 2 Evidence Evaluators, and findings were reconciled by BLS Domain Chairs and Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) Co‐Chairs to arrive at treatment recommendations commensurate to quality of evidence, risk to benefit relationship, and clinical feasibility. This process was implemented using an Evidence Profile Worksheet for each question that included an introduction, consensus on science, treatment recommendations, justification for these recommendations, and important knowledge gaps. A draft of these worksheets was distributed to veterinary professionals for comment for 4 weeks prior to finalization. Setting: Transdisciplinary, international collaboration in university, specialty, and emergency practice. Results: Twenty questions regarding animal position, chest compression point and technique, ventilation strategies, as well as the duration of CPR cycles and chest compression pauses were examined, and 32 treatment recommendations were formulated. Out of these, 25 addressed chest compressions and 7 informed ventilation during CPR. The recommendations were founded predominantly on very low quality of evidence and expert opinion. These new treatment recommendations continue to emphasize the critical importance of high‐quality, uninterrupted chest compressions, with a modification suggested for the chest compression technique in wide‐chested dogs. When intubation is not possible, bag–mask ventilation using a tight‐fitting facemask with oxygen supplementation is recommended rather than mouth‐to‐nose ventilation. Conclusions: These updated RECOVER BLS treatment recommendations emphasize continuous chest compressions, conformation‐specific chest compression techniques, and ventilation for all animals. Very low quality of evidence due to absence of clinical data in dogs and cats consistently compromised the certainty of recommendations, emphasizing the need for more veterinary research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Otocolobus manul (Pallas, 1776) is a small, solitary, terrestrial felid commonly called the Manul and is the sole species of its genus. It occurs in Afghanistan, Armenia, Bhutan, China, India, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, the Russian Federation, and Turkmenistan. Otocolobus manul might still occur in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan but might be extinct in Azerbaijan. As assessed in 2020, O. manul is listed as "Least Concern" (LC) on the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources Red List of Threatened Species, with an estimate of 58,000 adults, although the population might be decreasing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scapula in quadrupedal mammals is a flat bone that connects the thoracic limb with the trunk above the shoulder joint. For this purpose, scapulae of 34 dogs and 23 cats were modeled using computer tomography. 9 Landmarks and 50 semilandmarks were used. The cat and dog samples differ in scapula shape, as do male and female cats. Centroid size has no apparent covariance with shape, and we did not find any difference between the two sexes in dogs. The scapula of cats was wider. The scapula of dogs was narrower and longer. Margo cranialis was more oval in cats. Angulus cranialis border was not clear in cats. Angulus caudalis was sharper in dogs. Spina scapulae was closer to caudal in cats. In cats, the fossa supraspinata was wider than the fossa infraspinata. Also, the collum scapulae was narrower in cats. The scapula of male cats was wider than that of female cats. In shape, the fossa supraspinata was wider in male cats. In male cats, the spina scapulae were more caudal. Angulus caudalis was wider in female cats. The most significant gender differences in dogs were in tuberculum supraglenoidale and margo caudalis. Male dogs had larger tuberculum supraglenoidale in shape. Margo caudalis was more caudal in male dogs. Geometric morphometrics was found to be effective in distinguishing the scapula of cats and dogs. In addition, this method can be useful in sex estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on the dietary composition of felids can help improve the perception of rural workers and their tolerance towards this group, which is threatened by human-wildlife conflicts. In this context, the purpose of this study was to quantify the diet of Leopardus geoffroyi in Península Valdés (Patagonia, Argentina) to obtain baseline knowledge of the species dietary habits, trophic ecology, and degree of prey consumption. To this end, 160 fresh scat samples, collected from 2013 to 2016, were analyzed. Ten mammal species, one tinamou bird, one lizard genus, and one insect order were identified. The most frequently consumed prey (63.84%) were small-sized mammals (< 1 kg), accounting for the highest biomass contribution (37.2%). The frequency of each mammal species in the diet was not correlated with their capture frequency (measured through Sherman live traps and pedestrian diurnal transects). This study is the first to report on the diet of L. geoffroyi in Argentinean central Patagonia, and it provides information not only on ecological aspects but also on the natural history of this felid species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluids are drugs used in veterinary patients capable of producing beneficial therapeutic or inadvertent harmful effects within the body's intravascular, interstitial, and intracellular fluid spaces. The individualized design of a fluid therapy plan requires careful patient assessment and targeted selection of proper fluid types, administration routes, and rates, along with adjustments during therapy tailored specifically as per the individual patient's fluid requirement and therapeutic response. Personalized fluid prescriptions and vigilant patient monitoring help avoid patient morbidity from body fluid deficiencies, fluid excess, and electrolyte derangements and support better patient outcomes. These guidelines provide an overview of fluid dynamics within the fluid spaces of the body, describe various types of fluids and their uses, and outline recommendations for fluid administration for resuscitation, rehydration, and maintenance purposes. The guidelines also outline approaches to fluid therapy for anesthetized patients and reiterate the recommendations of reduced fluid rates in this population of patients. Additionally, the guidelines include practical fluid therapy strategies for patients with various common disorders. The goal of these guidelines is to help veterinary professionals safely and effectively prescribe and administer fluid therapy for canine and feline patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Trichomonosis is a common infection in small animals, mostly manifesting in gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea. Although oral trichomonads are also known, the species found colonizing the large intestine are more frequently detected protozoa. Methods: In the present study, four wildcats, 94 domestic cats, and 25 dogs, originating from 18 different locations in Hungary, were investigated for the presence of oral and large intestinal trichomonads based on the 18S rRNA gene and ITS2. Results: All oral swabs were negative by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). However, Tritrichomonas foetus was detected in a high proportion among tested domestic cats (13.8%) and dogs (16%), and Pentatrichomonas hominis only in two domestic cats. In addition, a novel Tritrichomonas genotype was identified in one cat, probably representing a new species that was shown to be phylogenetically most closely related to Tritrichomonas casperi described recently from mice. All positive dogs and half of the positive cats showed symptoms, and among cats, the most frequent breed was the Ragdoll. Conclusions: With molecular methods, this study evaluated the prevalence of oral and intestinal trichomonads in clinical samples of dogs and cats from Hungary, providing the first evidence of T. foetus in dogs of this region. In contrast to literature data, P. hominis was more prevalent in cats than in dogs. Finally, a hitherto unknown large intestinal Tritrichomonas species (closely related to T. casperi) was shown to be present in a cat, raising two possibilities. First, this novel genotype might have been a rodent-associated pseudoparasite in the relevant cat. Otherwise, the cat was actually infected, thus suggesting the role of a predator–prey link in the evolution of this trichomonad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India has achieved a rare global conservation success by doubling its Tiger Panthera tigris number since 2006. However, in India's east-central states of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand the tiger numbers are declining. The tiger population in Odisha is largely confined to Similipal Tiger Reserve which represents the only known breeding population of a genetically unique wild melanistic form. We report a first empirically confirmed tiger dispersal event towards the south between Similipal Tiger Reserve and adjacent Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary as part of our intensive monitoring exercise conducted from 2019-2022. This evidence-based dispersal event confirms tiger presence in Kuldiha after 11 recent years and urges strong support for tiger conservation in the Greater Similipal Landscape. In order to ensure long-term tiger presence in this landscape, we suggest more rigorous management interventions like habitat restoration and management, prey recovery, intensive protection measures, conflict management, and creation of inviolate space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The knowledge regarding infectious agents affecting wildlife is crucial for species' conservation. We hypothesized that herpesviruses are present in wild Neotropical carnivores. Herein, we used DNA polymerase and glycoprotein B broad‐spectrum PCRs to molecularly survey the presence of herpesviruses in spleen and/or lung samples of 53 wild Neotropical carnivores of Brazil, comprising the families Canidae, Felidae, Mustelidae, and Procyonidae. The percentage of PCR‐positives was 28.3% (15/53). An alphaherpesvirus was found in a Neotropical river otter (Lontra longicaudis, 1/1), a betaherpesvirus in a lesser grison (Galictis cuja, 1/3), and different gammaherpesviruses in Neotropical river otter (1/1), lesser grison (1/3), crab‐eating raccoons (Procyon cancrivorus, 8/9), South American coati (Nasua nasua, 1/2), southern tiger cat (Leopardus guttulus, 1/2), jaguarundi (Puma yagouaroundi, 1/5), and ocelot (Leopardus pardalis, 1/10). None of the tested canids were herpesvirus‐positive. This is the first report of herpesvirus in procyonids, and in jaguarundi, southern tiger cat, lesser grison, and Neotropical river otter. This study broadens the host range of herpesviruses in Neotropical carnivores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This epidemiological survey aims to provide an update on the main flea species that parasitize domestic animals in the Western Andalusia assessing several ecological features that could be considered as possible risk factors for flea infestation. Over a 19‐month period (June 2021 to January 2023), we obtained a total of 802 flea samples from 182 dogs (Canis lupus familiaris, Carnivora: Canidae, Linnaeus, 1758) and 78 cats (Felis silvestris catus, Carnivora: Felidae, Schreber, 1775). For each parasitized host, an epidemiological survey was completed, including the following information: geographical origin, age, sex, rural or urban habitat, type of animal's lifestyle (domestic or non‐domestic), health status, cohabiting or not with other animals and the total number of collected fleas. The most common species was Ctenocephalides felis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (Bouché, 1835) with a total of 713 specimens, which accounted for 89% of the total fleas. The second most abundant species was Pulex irritans (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (Linnaeus, 1758) with a total of 46 collected fleas (6% of the total). The remaining species identified were Archaeopsylla erinacei (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (Bouché, 1835) (25 specimens), Spilopsyllus cuniculi (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (Dale, 1878) (12 specimens) and Ctenocephalides canis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (Curtis, 1826) (6 specimens), which accounted for 3%, 1% and 1%, respectively, of the total fleas collected. The months with the highest number of collected fleas were, in ascending order, May 2022, September 2021 and July 2021. Dogs had a greater diversity of flea species, and flea sex ratios were female biased in all identified species and among all studied hosts. Finally, we identified some potential host risk factors that promoted higher flea intensities, such as living in rural areas, or presenting other pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Simple Summary: Anal sacs are paired skin invaginations present in most carnivores near the lateral margins of the anus and contain combined secretions of glands located in the anal sac wall. Anal sac disease is commonly seen in small animal practices, with a higher prevalence in dogs than in cats. The diagnosis of anal sac disease is usually based on the presentation of clinical signs and physical and rectal examination. However, the clinical signs are often non-specific and may be even absent, particularly in neoplastic cases. Ultrasonographic evaluation of anal sacs in dogs and cats is a practical, readily available, non-invasive, and low-cost modality and may enable the detection of anal sac disease at an early stage, even in asymptomatic patients. This study describes a presumed normal ultrasound morphology of anal sacs in dogs and cats, as well as the feasibility, advantages, and disadvantages of ultrasound screening of anal sacs in these companion animals. Ultrasonographic evaluation of canine and feline anal sacs is a practical promising modality to identify anal sac disease. However, limited data are available about normal ultrasound morphology of the anal sacs. This study describes the ultrasound morphology of presumed normal anal sacs in a larger sample of client-owned dogs and cats. A single-institutional prospective cross-sectional descriptive study was performed, and 137 dogs and 131 cats were included. The most common ultrasound features of the evaluated anal sacs in the dorsal plane were oval shape (99.3% of dogs and 98.5% of cats) and bilaterally similar content (94.2% of dogs and 95.4% of cats), mostly hypoechoic with diffusely hyperechoic points or unformed echogenic material (42.6% of dogs and 44% of cats). Gas in the lumen of the anal sac was detected in two dogs and mineralization in one dog. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between body weight and the size of anal sacs in dogs ≤15 kg and cats and a correlation between age and the size of anal sacs in cats. This simple method provides additional clinically significant information in detecting abnormal findings in asymptomatic patients and could contribute to the early detection of anal sac disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Late Miocene natural traps of Cerro de los Batallones (Madrid, Spain) have yielded thousands of fossils of vertebrates, mostly carnivoran mammals such as hyaenids, amphicyonids, ailurids, mustelids, ursids, and felids, especially Batallones-1 and Batallones-3. Among these carnivorans, the tiger-sized saber-toothed felid Machairodus aphanistus was the top predator of the association, and one of the most abundant taxa, represented by thousands of fossils, including several examples of bone pathologies that have never been studied. In this work, we carry out a paleopathological analysis of some of these pathologies from the Batallones sample of this large early machairodontine, with a description of the pathological changes that occurred in the affected bones, a possible diagnosis, and the ethological and ecological consequences of the presence of these diseases in the living animal. The pathological sample of M. aphanistus studied here included a calcaneus and a Mc III from Batallones-1, and a mandible from Batallones-3. The fossils were X-rayed, and their pathologies were described and compared to non-pathological bones. The calcaneus showed a bone callus indicative of osteitis/osteomyelitis or a tumor; the mandible had evidence of the development of an abscess located in the left mandibular body; and the Mc III shows a marked osteosclerosis. These injuries affected the hunting ability of these individuals and gradually weakened them, very likely contributing to their final entrapment in the Batallones cavities, where they were attracted by the presence of previously trapped animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article determines the in vivo insecticidal activity of the antiparasitic drug "Superium Panacea" for cats. It has been established that the drug "Superium Panacea" has a pronounced insecticidal effect on wingless ectoparasitic insects Ctenocephalides felis and acaricidal effect on sarcoptoid ticks Otodectes cynotis. The duration of the protective effect of the drug was at least 28 days. The drug "Superium Panacea" with a wide spectrum of insecticidal and acaricidal action when applied to cats and kittens orally (peros), individually, once, during morning feeding with a small amount of feed or forcibly, according to the manufacturer's recommended schemes, is well tolerated by animals of different breeds and ages, which were used in the study and can be used for the treatment and prevention of mixed parasitosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary hepatic neuroendocrine carcinoma, previously referred to as carcinoid, is a malignant tumour arising from neuroendocrine cells and is a rare form of hepatic neoplasia in cats. This case report describes primary hepatic neuroendocrine carcinoma in a cat, with weight loss and vomiting as its primary clinical signs. Definitive diagnosis was made following surgical excision and histopathology of the affected liver lobes in addition to immunohistochemistry staining. Following surgery, the cat received different chemotherapy agents due to observation of progressive disease at restaging visits. The cat is currently receiving metronomic chemotherapy of cyclophosphamide and has no evidence of metastatic disease present 1009 days after initial presentation. Primary hepatic neuroendocrine carcinoma can occur in cats and should be a differential diagnosis for a hepatic mass in this species. Primary hepatic neuroendocrine carcinomas are rare in cats, and there is no standard of care for treatment in companion animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The U Minh wetlands of southern Vietnam in Ca Mau and Kieng Giang provinces are a degraded, peat-swamp wetland mosaic known to retain several globally threatened species. We deployed 83 targeted camera-traps across U Minh Thuong National Park and U Minh Ha National Park from December 2019 to May 2020, and from November 2020 to June 2021, respectively. Our aim was to detect threatened otters, wild cats, and pangolins in each protected area, to identify relative abundance, activity patterns, and what potential threats they may face to inform conservation priorities for park managers. Our results showed that both protected areas harbour significant regionally important populations of globally threatened Sunda pangolins (Manis javanica), and Hairy-nosed otters (Lutra sumatrana). However, Fishing cats (Prionailurus viverrinus) and Large-spotted civet (Viverra megaspila) previously recorded from U Minh Thuong National Park, were not observed, emphasising the probability of local extirpation. Other than wide-ranging species that are less sensitive to human disturbance (i.e., Common palm civets and Leopard cats), all small carnivores were most active in Melaleuca and swamp/Melaleuca habitats in U Minh Thuong, and both the wetland plantations and disturbed forests of U Minh Ha according to their photographic rates. Human and domestic dogs' activity periods in both protected areas overlapped strongly with Hairy-nosed otters, which could influence their dispersal abilities and access to resources. Long-term and short-term threats are discussed with relevance to U Minh ecosystem health and future recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Upper urinary tract urolithiasis is an emerging disease in cats, with 98% of kidney stones composed of calcium oxalate. In humans, disturbances in the intestinal and urinary microbiota are suspected to contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate stones. We hypothesized that similar mechanisms may be at play in cats. This study examines the intestinal and urinary microbiota of nine cats with kidney stones compared to nine healthy cats before, during, and after treatment with the antibiotic cefovecin, a cephalosporin. Initially, cats with kidney stones displayed a less diverse intestinal microbiota. Antibiotic treatment reduced microbiota diversity in both groups. The absence of specific intestinal bacteria could lead to a loss of the functions these bacteria perform, such as oxalate degradation, which may contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate stones. This study confirms the presence of a distinct urobiome in cats with kidney stones, characterized by greater richness and diversity compared to healthy cats. These findings highlight the potential of microbiota modulation as a strategy to prevent renal lithiasis in cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

El gato del pajonal es un felino nativo cuya distribución en la provincia de Entre Ríos es controvertida. Teniendo en cuenta la baja disponibilidad de hábitat favorable, la limitada conectividad de los mismos y su transformación debido a cambios de uso y cobertura del suelo, sumado a otras amenazas, como los atropellos y la caza furtiva, se considera al complejo “gato de pajonal” en la categoría Vulnerable. Si bien se los ha reportado en diversos mapas de distribución, los registros no se basan en evidencias objetivas como por ejemplo: fotografías, videos, mapas de atropellamientos, avistamientos de expertos, ADN, entre otros, discutiéndose los pocos registros publicados en los últimos años para la provincia. De la revisión de publicaciones científicas, tesis, noticias periodísticas, informes gubernamentales, evidencias directas con personas testigos, presencia de restos en Museos Regionales, registros en sitios de libre acceso (GBIF, Inaturalist, EcoRegistros, Red Argentina de Fauna Atropellada), no hay evidencia reciente sobre su presencia que hacen pensar un posible proceso de extinción. Esta situación permitiría sostener que su distribución propuesta debería ser corroborada fehacientemente, para asegurar su presencia o ausencia. Se propone un mapa de distribución acorde a la información relevada y se recomienda reforzar los trabajos de búsqueda y monitoreo de este felino silvestre con apoyo de los organismos provinciales, en particular el Sistema de Áreas Naturales Protegidas y la Red de Reservas Privadas, involucrando a las ONG con trabajo territorial y promoviendo trabajos de investigación específicos.

This article discusses the formation of images in the human eye and the persistence of ancient theories on image formation among students. The study presents an instructional material called the dark box-cat family experiment, which allows students to test and discuss their theories on image formation using concrete experiences. The experiment involves placing wooden cat figures inside a dark box and observing their visibility under different conditions. The results of the experiment aim to challenge the ancient theories and promote scientific knowledge on image formation. The article suggests that incorporating historical and philosophical knowledge in science education can enhance learning. [Extracted from the article]