Showing papers in "Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery in 2006"
TL;DR: It is suggested that MEMO is a promising adjunctive therapy for indoor-housed cats with LUTS, and should be followed up with prospective controlled clinical trials.
Abstract: This prospective observational study evaluated client-reported recurrence of lower urinary tract signs (LUTS) and other signs of abnormalities in cats with idiopathic cystitis after institution of multimodal environmental modification (MEMO). Forty-six client-owned indoor-housed cats with idiopathic cystitis, diagnosed based on a history of recurrent LUTS and evidence of absence of urolithiasis or bacterial urinary tract infection were studied. In addition to their usual care, clients were offered recommendations for MEMO based on a detailed environmental history. Cases were followed for 10 months by client contact to determine the effect of MEMO on LUTS and other signs. Significant (P<0.05) reductions in LUTS, fearfulness, nervousness, signs referable to the respiratory tract, and a trend (P<0.1) toward reduced aggressive behavior and signs referable to the lower intestinal tract were identified. These results suggest that MEMO is a promising adjunctive therapy for indoor-housed cats with LUTS, and should be followed up with prospective controlled clinical trials.
151 citations
TL;DR: DNA consistent with B henselae, B clarridgeiae, M haemofelis, or ‘Candidatus Mhaemominutum’ was commonly amplified from cats and their fleas and support the recommendation to maintain flea control on cats in endemic areas.
Abstract: Ctenocephalides felis were killed and collected from 92 cats in Alabama, Maryland, and Texas. The fleas and blood from the corresponding cat were digested and assessed in polymerase chain reaction assays that amplify DNA of Ehrlichia species, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Neorickettsia risticii, Mycoplasma haemofelis, ‘Candidatus M haemominutum’ and Bartonella species. DNA consistent with B henselae, B clarridgeiae, M haemofelis, or ‘Candidatus M haemominutum’ was commonly amplified from cats (60.9%) and their fleas (65.2%). Results of this study support the recommendation to maintain flea control on cats in endemic areas.
150 citations
TL;DR: Diabetic cats in this study were significantly more likely to revert to a non-insulin-dependent state when fed the canned LC–LF food versus the MC–HF food.
Abstract: This study compared the effects of a moderate carbohydrate–high fiber (MC–HF) food and a low carbohydrate–low fiber (LC–LF) food on glycemic control in cats with diabetes mellitus. Sixty-three diabetic cats (48 male castrated, 15 female spayed) were randomly assigned to be fed either a canned MC–HF (n=32) food or a canned LC–LF (n=31) food for 16 weeks. Owners were blinded to the type of diet fed. CBC, urinalysis, serum chemistry panel, fructosamine concentration and thyroxine concentration were determined on initial examination, and a complete blood count, serum chemistry panel, urinalysis and serum fructosamine concentration were repeated every 4 weeks for 16 weeks. Insulin doses were adjusted as needed to resolve clinical signs and lower serum fructosamine concentrations. Serum glucose (P=0.0001) and fructosamine (P=0.0001) concentrations significantly decreased from week 0 to week 16 in both dietary groups. By week 16, significantly more of the cats fed the LC–LF food (68%, 22/31), compared to the cat...
111 citations
TL;DR: Sexual intact cats and purebreed cats were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with FIP; males and young cats also had a higher prevalence of disease.
Abstract: Although known that purebreed cats are more likely to develop feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), previous studies have not examined the prevalence of disease in individual breeds. All cats diagnosed with FIP at a veterinary teaching hospital over a 16-year period were identified. Breed, sex and reproductive status of affected cats were compared to the general cat population and to mixed breed cats evaluated during the same period. As with previous studies sexually intact cats and purebreed cats were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with FIP; males and young cats also had a higher prevalence of disease. Abyssinians, Bengals, Birmans, Himalayans, Ragdolls and Rexes had a significantly higher risk, whereas Burmese, Exotic Shorthairs, Manxes, Persians, Russian Blues and Siamese cats were not at increased risk for development of FIP. Although additional factors doubtlessly influence the relative prevalence of FIP, this study provides additional guidance when prioritizing differentials in ill purebreed cats.
105 citations
TL;DR: It is suggested that it is feasible to safely sterilize large numbers of feral cats and that the experiences of existing programs are a consistent source of information upon which to model new TNR programs.
Abstract: Internationally, large populations of feral cats constitute an important and controversial issue due to their impact on cat overpopulation, animal welfare, public health, and the environment, and to disagreement about what are the best methods for their control. Trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs are an increasingly popular alternative to mass euthanasia. The objective of this study was to determine the population characteristics of feral cats admitted to large-scale TNR programs from geographically diverse locations in the United States. Data from 103,643 feral cats admitted to TNR programs from 1993 to 2004 were evaluated. All groups reported more intact females (53.4%) than intact males (44.3%); only 2.3% of the cats were found to be previously sterilized. Overall, 15.9% of female cats were pregnant at the time of surgery. Pregnancy was highly seasonal and peaked between March and April for all of the groups. The average prenatal litter size was 4.1 � 0.1 fetuses per litter. Cryptorchidism was observed in 1.3% of male cats admitted for sterilization. A total of 0.4% of cats was euthanased because of the presence of debilitating conditions, and 0.4% died during the TNR clinics. Remarkably similar populations of cats with comparable seasonal variability were seen at each program, despite their wide geographical distribution. These results suggest that it is feasible to safely sterilize large numbers of feral cats and that the experiences of existing programs are a consistent source of information upon which to model new TNR programs. Date accepted: 16 February 2006
85 citations
TL;DR: This study was based on a convenience-sampling questionnaire study of pedigree cat breeding in the UK and found that breed itself was not shown to have a significant independent effect on this likelihood of stillborn kittens.
Abstract: This study was based on a convenience-sampling questionnaire study of pedigree cat breeding in the UK. Data were collated for the births of 1,056 litters from 14 different pedigree breeds and 942 different households. Significant relationships between various outcomes and relevant predictors were assessed by multiple linear regression or logistic regression as appropriate. The overall mean gestation length of 65.1 days varied significantly between the breeds (P<0.0001), and larger litter sizes were associated with shorter gestation lengths (P=0.04). The mean litter size of 4.6 kittens also varied significantly according to breed (P<0.0001). The weight of kittens born alive (overall mean 93.5 g) increased with longer gestation lengths (P=0.0003), decreased with larger litter sizes (P<0.0001) and varied between the breeds (P<0.0001). A total of 8.0% of pregnancies resulted in a caesarean section, with a higher risk associated with smaller litter sizes (P=0.002). Although the frequency of caesarean sections varied from 0 to 18.5% between individual breeds, breed itself was not shown to have a significant independent effect on this likelihood. A mean of 7.2% of all the kittens were stillborn, which varied according to breed (P=0.0003), and the risk of a stillborn kitten increased with litter size (P=0.0001), and with the presence of congenital defects in the litter (P=0.0002). The mean kitten mortality between birth and 8 weeks of age was 9.1%, and the majority of these occurred in the first week of life. Parturition intervals varied widely. The duration of first stage of labour was less than 2h in 82.9% of cats. The interval between the birth of the first and last kitten was less than 6h in 85.7%, but more than 48 h in three cats. A maximum of 48 h was recorded between the births of individual kittens in unassisted deliveries.
77 citations
TL;DR: Evaluated domestic cats living in private homes, feral cat colonies, and animal shelters from California and Wisconsin were evaluated by serology to determine the levels of exposure to a group of zoonotic vector-borne pathogens.
Abstract: Although cats and their arthropod parasites can sometimes be important sources of zoonotic diseases in humans, the extent of exposure among various cat populations to many potential zoonotic agents remains incompletely described. In this study, 170 domestic cats living in private homes, feral cat colonies, and animal shelters from California and Wisconsin were evaluated by serology to determine the levels of exposure to a group of zoonotic vector-borne pathogens. Serological positive test results were observed in 17.2% of cats for Rickettsia rickettsii, 14.9% for R akari, 4.9% for R typhi, 11.1% for R felis, and 14.7% for Bartonella henselae. Although vector-borne disease exposure has been documented previously in cats, the evaluation of multiple pathogens and diverse cat populations simultaneously performed here contributes to our understanding of feline exposure to these zoonotic pathogens.
76 citations
TL;DR: Assessment of feline coronavirus RNA loads in haemolymphatic tissues of healthy, long-term FCoV-infected cats and cats with FIP found viral loads were significantly higher, indicating a higher rate of viral replication or a reduced capacity for viral clearance in cats developing and/or suffering from FIP.
Abstract: Natural feline coronavirus (FCoV) infection has been shown to not only induce intestinal infection with viral shedding, but also systemic infection which either remains without clinical signs or leads to feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). As systemic infection is not the key event in the development of FIP, the question arises as to whether a potential difference in viral load might be of importance. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to quantitatively assess feline coronavirus (FCoV) RNA loads in haemolymphatic tissues of healthy, long-term FCoV-infected cats and cats with FIP. In cats that died from FIP, viral loads were significantly higher, indicating a higher rate of viral replication or a reduced capacity for viral clearance in cats developing and/or suffering from FIP.
69 citations
TL;DR: It is the responsibility of the reader to check that the product is authorised for use in their own bear this in mind and be aware of the prescribing laws pertaining to their own country.
Abstract: technique does not amount to an endorsement of its value or quality, or the claims made by its manufacturer. those of the authors and the inclusion in this publication of material relating to a particular product, method or of animals and interpretation of published materials lies with the veterinary practitioner. The opinions expressed are from actions or decisions based on information contained in this publication; ultimate responsibility for the treatment arising country. The authors, editors, owners and publishers do not accept any responsibility for any loss or damage advertising material, it is the responsibility of the reader to check that the product is authorised for use in their own bear this in mind and be aware of the prescribing laws pertaining to their own country. Likewise, in relation to Furthermore, drugs may be mentioned that are licensed for human use, and not for veterinary use. Readers need to formulations that are not available or licensed in the individual reader's own country. The Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery is an international journal and authors may discuss products and Disclaimer
69 citations
TL;DR: A positive association was documented between the localisation of a tumour in the forebrain and seizure occurrence, and meningioma and lymphoma were confirmed to be the most frequent tumour type, followed by glial cell tumours.
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to analyse retrospectively a feline population with intracranial neoplastic diseases, to document seizure patterns in these animals and to determine whether partial seizures were more frequently associated with structural brain lesions then generalised seizures In addition, a comparison was made within the population with intracranial neoplasia between two groups of cats: one with and one without seizures Special emphasis was given to the evaluation of tumour type, localisation and size of the lesion and its correlation with seizure prevalence Sixty-one cats with histopathological diagnosis of intracranial tumour were identified Fourteen cats (23%; group A) had a history of seizure(s) Forty-seven cats (77%; group B) had no history of seizure(s) Generalised tonic-clonic seizures were seen in eight cats (57%) and were the most common seizure pattern in our cats with intracranial neoplasia Clusters of seizures were observed in six cats Status epilepticus was observed in one patient The mean age of the cats was 79 years within group A (median 85) and 93 years (median 10) within group B The cats with lymphoma within both groups were significantly younger than cats with meningioma In both groups meningioma and lymphoma were confirmed to be the most frequent tumour type, followed by glial cell tumours The prevalence of the seizures in patients with glial cell tumours was 267%, 263% in patients with lymphomas and 15% in cases with meningiomas In 33 cases (541%) the tumours were localised in the forebrain, 15 tumours (246%) were in the brainstem, four (66%) in the cerebellum and nine tumours (147%) had multifocal localisation Parietal lobe and basal ganglia mostly affected group A In group B tumours were most frequently located in the parietal and frontal lobes as well as in the diencephalon A positive association was documented between the localisation of a tumour in the forebrain and seizure occurrence
66 citations
TL;DR: Interactive methods, including wound palpation, must be used to assess postoperative pain and the findings should be appropriately weighted in the overall assessment, because wounds after flank ovariohysterectomy are significantly more tender than after midline ovario HystereCTomy in the cat.
Abstract: Elective ovariohysterectomy was performed on 66 cats. Surgical approach was flank (group F) or midline (group M) allocated by block randomisation. Pre-anaesthetic medication was acepromazine (0.1 mg/kg) via intramuscular injection. Anaesthesia was induced with intravenous thiopentone, and maintained with halothane in 100% oxygen. Carprofen (4 mg/kg) was administered by the subcutaneous route immediately after induction of anaesthesia. Postoperative pain and wound tenderness were assessed at 1, 3, 6, 9, 11-12 and 20-24h after the end of surgery, and the assessment outcome marked on visual analogue scales (VAS). Intervention analgesia (if pain VAS was >40 mm) was pethidine 4 mg/kg via intramuscular injection. Area under the curve (AUC) for VAS for pain and VAS for wound tenderness for each cat were calculated. AUC for wound tenderness was significantly greater for group F (P = 0.007). There was no significant difference for AUC for pain between the groups. In conclusion, wounds after flank ovariohysterectomy are significantly more tender than after midline ovariohysterectomy in the cat. This indicates that interactive methods, including wound palpation, must be used to assess postoperative pain and the findings should be appropriately weighted in the overall assessment.
TL;DR: Clinicopathological findings from six cats with confirmed cholecystitis or acute neutrophilic cholangitis are presented and percutaneous ultrasound-guided choleCystocentesis is an effective, minimally-invasive technique enabling identification of bacterial isolate in cats with inflammatory hepatobiliary disease.
Abstract: Clinicopathological findings from six cats with confirmed cholecystitis or acute neutrophilic cholangitis are presented. Historical findings included lethargy and anorexia or inappetence of up to five days duration. On physical examination all cats were pyrexic and four out of six were jaundiced and had cranial abdominal pain. Bile samples were obtained by cholecystocentesis at exploratory coeliotomy (two cases) or by percutaneous, ultrasound-guided cholecystocentesis (four cases). Gall bladder rupture and bile peritonitis occurred subsequent to ultrasound-guided cholecystocentesis in one case. The most common bacterial isolate was Escherichia coli (four cases); E coli was isolated alone in two cases, in combination with a Streptococcus species (one case) and in combination with a Clostridium species (one case). Streptococcus species alone was isolated from one case, as was Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. The latter is the first reported case of Salmonella-associated cholecystitis in a cat. Concurrent pancreatic or intestinal disease was detected histologically in three cases. All cases were treated with antimicrobials based on in vitro susceptibility results. Treatment was successful in five cases. One cat with concurrent diffuse epitheliotropic intestinal lymphoma was euthanased. Percutaneous ultrasound-guided cholecystocentesis is an effective, minimally-invasive technique enabling identification of bacterial isolates in cats with inflammatory hepatobiliary disease.
TL;DR: It is demonstrated that extracellular Aβ accumulation and AT8-immunoreactivity within neurons are age-related phenomena in cats, and that they can occur concurrently.
Abstract: The life expectancy of domestic pet cats is increasing, along with the occurrence of geriatric-onset behavioural problems, such as cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). While the cause of CDS is unclear, it has been suggested that it may result from age-related neurodegeneration. In aged and in particular senile human beings, histopathological changes may include the extracellular accumulation of plaque-like deposits of beta-amyloid (Abeta) protein and the intracellular accumulation of an abnormally hyperphosphorylated form of the microtubule-associated protein, tau. In severe cases, the latter may form into neurofibrillary tangles. Brain material was assessed from 19 cats, aged from 16 weeks to 14 years; 17 of which had clinical signs of neurological dysfunction. Immunohistochemical methods were used to detect Abeta and its intracellular precursor protein (amyloid precursor protein (APP)) and hyperphosphorylated-tau. APP was constitutively expressed, with diffuse staining of neurons and blood vessels being detected in all cats. More intense staining and diffuse extracellular Abeta staining deposits were found within the deep cortical areas of the anterior- and occasionally mid-cerebrum of seven cats, all of which were over 10 years of age. Neurons staining intensely positive for AT8-immunoreactivity were seen in two cats, aged 11 and 13 years. However, no mature neurofibrillary tangles were detected. This study demonstrated that extracellular Abeta accumulation and AT8-immunoreactivity within neurons are age-related phenomena in cats, and that they can occur concurrently. There are similarities between these changes and those observed in the brains of aged people and other old mammals.
TL;DR: Certain lines of Abyssinian and Somali cats likely suffer from a familial immunodeficiency that predisposes them to infection with slow-growing mycobacteria such as MAC, which is likely to cause recurrent disease.
Abstract: Disseminated Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare complex (MAC) infection was diagnosed in 10 young cats (1–5 years of age) from Australia or North America between 1995 and 2004. A further two cats with disseminated mycobacteriosis (precise agent not identified) were recognised during this period. Of the 12, 10 were Abyssinian cats, one was a Somali cat and one was a domestic shorthair cat. None of the cats tested positive for either FeLV antigen or FIV antibody. The clinical course of these infections was indolent, with cats typically presenting for weight loss, initially in the face of polyphagia, with a chronicity of up to several months. Additional clinical features included lower respiratory tract signs and peripheral lymphadenomegaly. A marked diffuse interstitial pattern was evident in thoracic radiographs, even in cats without overt respiratory involvement. Hair clipped to perform diagnostic procedures tended to regrow slowly, if at all. Diagnosis was generally made by obtaining representative tissue specimens from mesenteric lymph nodes, liver or kidney at laparotomy, or from a popliteal lymph node. The primary antecedent event was most likely colonisation of either the alimentary or respiratory tract, followed by local invasion and eventual lymphatic and haematogenous dissemination. Nine cases were treated using combination therapy with agents effective for MAC infection in human patients. Two cats are still undergoing initial therapy and have responded. Of the remaining seven, all responded during long courses (5–14 months) of clarithromycin combined with either clofazimine or rifampicin, and a fluoroquinolone or doxycycline. Of these, three cats remain well (with durations between 2 months and 2 years following therapy); two developed recurrent disease (at 3 months and 2 years, respectively, following therapy) and have restarted therapy. The remaining two cats improved 1 year and 5 months, respectively, after diagnosis but ultimately succumbed. The two cats in which therapy was restarted have improved dramatically. Certain lines of Abyssinian and Somali cats likely suffer from a familial immunodeficiency that predisposes them to infection with slow-growing mycobacteria such as MAC.
TL;DR: Cats with multiple cutaneous tumours, recurrent tumours and primary splenic disease should receive a guarded prognosis due to the relatively short median survival times associated with these forms of the disease.
Abstract: Mast cell tumours (MCTs) are relatively common tumours of cats, and are the second most common cutaneous tumours in cats in the USA. While the primary splenic form of the disease is far less common, it is usually associated with more severe clinical signs. Signalment, clinical and survival characteristics of mast cell neoplasia were characterised in 41 cats. The most common tumour location was cutaneous/ subcutaneous head and trunk. Stage la was the most common tumour stage at first diagnosis (n = 20), followed by stage 4 (both stage 4a and stage 4b; n = 10). Of 22 cats that underwent excisional biopsy, mast cell neoplasia recurred in four cats during the study period. Three of the 41 cats presented with simultaneous cutaneous and either splenic or lymph node tumours. A comparison between cats with only cutaneous tumours (n = 30) and those with tumours involving the spleen or lymph nodes (n = 11) showed longer survival times for the cutaneous-only group (P = 0.031). Twelve of the 41 cats died of mast cell neoplasia during the study period. When a subgroup of cats with only cutaneous tumours (no lymph node or visceral involvement) were divided according to whether there were multiple (five or more) tumours (n = 6) or a single tumour (n = 19), cats with single tumours survived longer than those with multiple tumours (P = 0.001). Solitary cutaneous feline MCTs without spread to the lymph nodes usually manifest as benign disease with a relatively protracted course. However, multiple cutaneous tumours, recurrent tumours and primary splenic disease should receive a guarded prognosis due to the relatively short median survival times associated with these forms of the disease. (C) 2006 ESFM and AAFR Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
TL;DR: Sequencing of most of the genomes of two VS-FCV strains documented patterns of virus relatedness and implicated changes in the capsid gene in the emerging phenotype, possibly through initiation of immune mechanisms manifest in the cytokine changes.
Abstract: Virulent systemic feline calicivirus (VS-FCV) is a novel, emerging pathogen with mortality up to 67% even in previously healthy adult cats; VS-FCV has resulted in at least six epidemics since 1998. Affected cats have systemic vascular compromise and hemorrhagic-fever like signs in part due to viral invasion of epithelium and endothelium, coupled with host cytokine responses. Affected skin tissues had, on average, 3.8 elevated cytokines compared with control tissue, with prominent upregulation in IL-10, TNF-α, and MIP-1α. Sequencing of most of the genomes of two VS-FCV strains documented patterns of virus relatedness and implicated changes in the capsid gene in the emerging phenotype, possibly through initiation of immune mechanisms manifest in the cytokine changes. Understanding the features contributing to the emergence of this disease is critical for management and prevention of this and similar outbreaks attributable to RNA viruses in animals and humans.
TL;DR: Serum samples from 214 Swedish cats with no signs of infectious disease were analysed for the presence of antibodies against Chlamydophila felis (Cp felis), while 209 of these were also analysed for feline coronavirus (FCoV) antibodies.
Abstract: Serum samples from 214 Swedish cats with no signs of infectious disease were analysed for the presence of antibodies against Chlamydophila felis (Cp felis), while 209 of these were also analysed for feline coronavirus (FCoV) antibodies. The prevalence of antibodies against Cp felis was 11%, with no significant difference between purebred and mixed breed cats. The overall prevalence of antibodies against FCoV was 31%, significantly higher among pure breed cats (65%) than among mixed breed cats (17%). A high proportion of cats with antibodies against FCoV had relatively high antibody titres, and was therefore likely to be shedding FCoV in faeces. For Cp felis, the majority of seropositive animals had relatively low antibody titres, and the risk of these animals infecting others is not known.
TL;DR: This report serves to further alert practitioners to the potential for drug-induced oesophageal disorders (DIOD) in cats treated with oral medications and to urge prevention by promoting a change in dosing practices.
Abstract: The clinical findings, treatment and outcome of suspected clindamycin-associated oesophageal injury in five cats are reported. All cats were treated with one 75 mg clindamycin capsule twice daily (dose range 12–19 mg/kg). Capsules were administered without food or a water bolus. Dysphagia, regurgitation, choking or gagging were seen 3–9 days after starting clindamycin. On oesophagoscopy, three cats had oesophagitis, one of which progressed to stricture formation. Two cats had an oesophageal stricture at first presentation. This is the first report of suspected clindamycin-associated oesophageal injury in cats. It serves to further alert practitioners to the potential for drug-induced oesophageal disorders (DIOD) in cats treated with oral medications and to urge prevention by promoting a change in dosing practices.
TL;DR: Administration of this vaccine within several days prior to exposure lessened clinical signs of disease and FHV-1 shedding compared to unvaccinated kittens.
Abstract: The objective of this study was to determine whether intranasal administration of a commercially available FVRCP vaccine to kittens lessened clinical signs and feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1) viral shedding when compared to unvaccinated control kittens after FHV-1 challenge. Three groups of 10 unvaccinated kittens were administered one dose of vaccine 6 days (group 1), 4 days (group 2), or 2 days (group 3) before challenge, respectively. One group was maintained as unvaccinated controls (group 4). FHV-1 challenge was then induced and the kittens were observed for 14 days. When the grouped vaccinated kitten results (groups 1-3) were compared to group 4 results, clinical scores following challenge were significantly lower (P<0.05) and significantly lower body temperatures (P<0.05) were detected on days 0, 5 and 9 post-challenge. When evaluated by individual group, group 1 and group 2 kittens had significantly lower clinical scores (P<0.05) than group 4 kittens post-challenge. In addition, FHV-1 shedding was lower in group 1 kittens when compared to group 4 kittens on day 6 after challenge (P<0.05). Administration of this vaccine within several days prior to exposure lessened clinical signs of disease and FHV-1 shedding compared to unvaccinated kittens.
TL;DR: It is confirmed that castration rapidly modifies the hormonal balance, partly explaining the body weight increase, and that hormonal changes precede this body weight increased.
Abstract: The increased prevalence of obesity after neutering in cats is problematic in veterinary practice. Although many factors seem to be involved, the role of prolactin (PRL) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), both implicated in adipose tissue development and glucose intolerance, should be considered. Seven male cats were castrated when 11 months old. Body weight was then recorded for 56 weeks and PRL, IGF-I and leptin assayed for 44 weeks. Body weight increased steadily but only significantly after 36 weeks. It stabilised after 44 weeks, and the cats then gained about 20% of their initial body weight. IGF-I increased rapidly and was significantly higher by week 3. PRL and leptin increased with initial peaks during the eighth and eleventh weeks, respectively. This study confirms that castration rapidly modifies the hormonal balance, partly explaining the body weight increase, and that hormonal changes precede this body weight increase. Hyperleptinaemia is apparently a consequence of excess weight.
TL;DR: The appearance of a case of FIP in the cattery was associated with an increased expression of cytokines, in particular there was an increased production of IL-1β and IFN-γ, suggesting that these cytokines might protect infected cats from the disease.
Abstract: In this study, the cytokine profiles of clinically healthy cats naturally infected with feline coronavirus (FCoV), of cats with feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and of specific pathogen-free (SPF) cats were investigated in whole blood using a traditional reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay and a semi-quantitative method of analysis based on computerised quantification of positive bands. The low inter-assay coefficient of variation recorded demonstrated that this method is highly repeatable. Compared with SPF cats, cytokine production was upregulated in most of the samples from FCoV-positive non-symptomatic cats. The appearance of a case of FIP in the cattery was associated with an increased expression of cytokines, in particular there was an increased production of IL-1beta and IFN-gamma, suggesting that these cytokines might protect infected cats from the disease. This hypothesis was also supported by the low levels of IFN-gamma recorded in blood from cats with FIP.
TL;DR: It is demonstrated that superficial squamous cell carcinoma of the feline nasal planum responds excellently to 90Strontium plesiotherapy, and this form of therapy may offer advantages over other alternatives currently available.
Abstract: The responses of 15 cats with histologically (n = 14) or cytologically (n = 1) confirmed nasal squamous cell carcinoma treated with 90Strontium plesiotherapy were reviewed retrospectively. Cats were treated such that a total dose of 50 Gy was delivered at a depth of 2 mm, administered in five fractions over a 10-day period. Of the cats, 11 were stage T2, three were Tis and one had only a cytological diagnosis precluding staging. Eleven of the cats achieved complete response (no visible lesion after 6–8 weeks) following the first cycle of therapy, and two cats with partial response achieved complete response with a second cycle of therapy. The remaining two cats achieved partial response following therapy, but further intervention was declined. Euthanasia was performed in these two cats because of progressive disease after 81 and 142 days. Of the 85% of cats that achieved a complete response, there was no recurrence of disease during a follow-up period of 134–2043 days (median 652 days). In addition to prolonged disease-free survivals, 90Strontium therapy produced excellent cosmetic results from the owners' perspective. These results demonstrate that superficial squamous cell carcinoma of the feline nasal planum responds excellently to 90Strontium plesiotherapy, and this form of therapy may offer advantages over other alternatives currently available.
TL;DR: Whether cats have a colostral and milk phase of lactation differentiated by concentrations of immunoglobulins, and whether colostrum ingestion by newborn kittens is essential for optimal transfer of passive immunity, is clarified.
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to clarify whether cats have a colostral and milk phase of lactation differentiated by concentrations of immunoglobulins, and whether colostrum ingestion by newborn kittens is essential for optimal transfer of passive immunity. Milk from specific pathogen-free queens was analyzed for IgG and IgA concentrations from parturition through 6 weeks of lactation. Serum IgG and IgA concentrations from birth through 8 weeks of age were determined for colostrum-fed kittens, colostrum-deprived kittens that were fed a milk replacer, and colostrum-deprived kittens that were fostered onto queens in the milk phase of lactation. The total IgG and IgA concentrations in milk were significantly higher on the day of parturition than on day 7 of lactation, indicating cats do have a colostral phase of lactation. The predominant immunoglobulin in both colostrum and milk was IgG. The serum IgG concentrations in colostrum-deprived kittens fostered on queens in the milk phase of lactation were similar to colostrum-deprived kittens fed a milk replacer, and the concentrations were significantly lower than in colostrum-fed kittens for the first 4 weeks of life. The serum IgA concentrations in both colostrum-deprived groups were significantly lower than colostrum-fed kittens on day 2 after parturition, but were similar thereafter. Colostrum-deprived kittens fostered onto queens in the milk phase of lactation had failure of passive transfer of maternal antibodies. Protective concentrations of immunoglobulins can be restored in kittens with failure of passive transfer of immunity by parenteral administration of adult cat serum, but not by fostering on queens in mid-lactation.
TL;DR: It is shown that a 2-week fluticasone treatment significantly reduced lower airway inflammation in very mild bronchitis, and 8-Iso-PGF2α in BAL fluid was responsive to treatment and appeared as a sensitive biomarker of lower airways inflammation in cats.
Abstract: This study investigated the effect of inhaled fluticasone on lower airway inflammation and bronchial responsiveness (BR) to inhaled carbachol in cats with very mild, chronic bronchitis (n = 5) that were compared with healthy cats serving as controls (n = 6). Chest radiographs, BR tests performed non-invasively by barometric whole body plethysmography (BWBP) and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) were performed before and after treatment. BR was quantified by calculating the concentration of carbachol inducing bronchoconstriction (C-Penh300%), defined as a 300% increase of baseline Penh, an index of bronchoconstriction obtained by BWBP. BAL fluid was analyzed cytologically and the oxidant marker 8-iso-PGF2alpha was determined. At test 1, healthy cats and cats with bronchitis were untreated, whereas for test 2 inhalant fluticasone (250 microg once daily) was administrated for 2 consecutive weeks to cats with bronchitis. Control cats remained untreated. Inhaled fluticasone induced a significant increase in C-Penh300% and a significant decrease of BAL fluid total cells, macrophages, neutrophils and 8-iso-PGF2alpha in cats with bronchitis, whilst untreated control cats did not show significant changes over time. This study shows that a 2-week fluticasone treatment significantly reduced lower airway inflammation in very mild bronchitis. BR could be successfully monitored in cats using BWPB and decreased significantly in response to inhaled fluticasone. 8-Iso-PGF2alpha in BAL fluid was responsive to treatment and appeared as a sensitive biomarker of lower airway inflammation in cats.
TL;DR: EMLA does appear to be safe in clinically ill cats, and may be useful for other applications such as for skin mass removal or repeated venepuncture, but may not justify the added steps of EMLA cream administration for this purpose.
Abstract: EMLA is a lidocaine/prilocaine cream used for topical analgesia in human pediatric patients. The purpose of this study was to establish the safety of EMLA in clinically ill cats, to measure systemic absorption and to determine whether EMLA reduced the need for sedation for the placement of jugular catheters. Thirty-one cats were randomized to either a placebo or EMLA cream group. Cream was applied to a 10 cm(2) area over the jugular vein, with 1h of occlusive dressing. Neither anesthetic was systemically absorbed in any cat, and no adverse clinical signs were observed. Struggling during catheter placement was less in the EMLA-treated cats compared to placebo, but did not reach significance (P = 0.06). Jugular catheters were successfully placed in 60% of EMLA-treated cats and 38% of placebo cats; this difference was not statistically significant and may not justify the added steps of EMLA cream administration for this purpose. However, EMLA does appear to be safe in clinically ill cats, and may be useful for other applications such as for skin mass removal or repeated venepuncture.
TL;DR: Results provide evidence that transmission of hemoplasmas to naïve cats occurs after administration of infected feline blood that has been stored in CPDA-1 solution for 1 h (Mhf) and 1 week (Mhm).
Abstract: Blood transfusions are commonly administered to cats; associated risks include the transmission of various infectious diseases including Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf) and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ (Mhm). Blood transfusions in citrate-phosphate-dextrose-adenine (CPDA-1) solution are commonly administered immediately or stored for up to 1 month prior to administration. It is unknown whether Mhf or Mhm survive in this solution or temperature. The purpose of this study was to determine if Mhf or Mhm remain viable after storage in CPDA-1 for varying periods of time. The results provide evidence that transmission of hemoplasmas to naive cats occurs after administration of infected feline blood that has been stored in CPDA-1 solution for 1 h (Mhf) and 1 week (Mhm). These findings support the recommendation that cats used as blood donors be screened for Mhf and Mhm infections by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay prior to use.
TL;DR: The data indicate that selective tubular deletion very frequently begins early in adult life, without a clear initiating phase or event, and support a hypothesis that this prolonged process may be intrinsic and protective prior to an ultimate point of failure.
Abstract: Traditional thinking views apparently non-programmed disruptions of aging, which medical science calls geriatric diseases, as separate from 'less harmful' morphological and physiological aging phenotypes that are more universally expected with passage of time (loss of skin elasticity, graying of hair coat, weight gain, increased sleep time, behavioral changes, etc). Late-life disease phenotypes, especially those involving chronic processes, frequently are complex and very energy-expensive. A non-programmed process of homeostatic disruption leading into a death trajectory seems inconsistent with energy intensive processes. That is, evolutionary mechanisms do not favor complex and prolonged energy investment in death. Taking a different view, the naturally occurring feline (Felis silvestris catus) renal model suggests that at least some diseases of late life represent only the point of failure in essentially survival-driven adaptive processes. In the feline renal model, individuals that succumbed to failure most frequently displayed progressive tubular deletion and peritubular interstitial fibrosis, but had longer mean life span than cats that died from other causes. Additionally, among cats that died from non-renal causes, those that had degrees of renal tubular deletion and peritubular interstitial fibrosis also had longer mean life span than those cats with no changes, even though causes of death differed minimally between these latter two groups. The data indicate that selective tubular deletion very frequently begins early in adult life, without a clear initiating phase or event. The observations support a hypothesis that this prolonged process may be intrinsic and protective prior to an ultimate point of failure. Moreover, given the genetic complexity and the interplay with associated risk factors, existing data also do not support the ideas that these changes are simple compensatory responses and that breed- or strain-based 'default' diseases are inevitable results of increasing individual longevity. Emerging molecular technology offers the future potential to further evaluate and refine these observations. At present, the existence of plastic and adaptive aging programming is suggested by these findings.
TL;DR: The highest regional risk of coccidia and Giardia species infection was for cats in the East South Central region and Mountain region, respectively, compared to the South Pacific region.
Abstract: Prevalence and risk factors for feline coccidia and Giardia species infections were estimated for cats visiting 434 Banfield hospitals in 40 states in 2003–2004. Evaluated were 631,021 cats making 1,456,712 office visits (encounters) and having 211,105 fecal examinations. The overall fecal prevalences of coccidia and Giardia species were 1.4% and 0.58%, respectively. Cats at increased risk of coccidia infection were under 4 years of age, intact, and seen during the summer, fall, and spring months compared to winter. Cats at increased risk of Giardia species infection were under 4 years of age. Those at decreased risk were mixed breed and seen during the summer, fall, and spring. The highest regional risk of coccidia and Giardia species infection was for cats in the East South Central region and Mountain region, respectively, compared to the South Pacific region.
TL;DR: According to preliminary data cats managed with home monitoring may have better glycaemic control than those managed without, however, those results need to be confirmed in a large group of cats.
Abstract: Many owners are able and willing to perform home monitoring of blood glucose concentrations in diabetic cats. Once owners are familiar with the technique, they appreciate its advantages and show long-term compliance. The success of home monitoring hinges greatly on careful preparation and instruction of the owner. Owners must have ready access to veterinary support if needed. Initially, most owners call for advice, and several of them need repeated explanation or demonstration of the procedure. The frequency of re-evaluations of the diabetic cats by veterinarians is not affected by home monitoring. One of its major advantages is that it enables frequent generation of blood glucose curves. In complicated cases, more than one curve can, therefore, be performed at home before a treatment decision is made. According to preliminary data cats managed with home monitoring may have better glycaemic control than those managed without. However, those results need to be confirmed in a large group of cats.
TL;DR: Failure to amplify Ehrlichia species DNA suggests that cats were not exposed, exposed but not infected, or infected but the DNA was not detected by the PCR assay used in this study.
Abstract: The objective of this study was to use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays to determine the prevalence of Ehrlichia species, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Mycoplasma haemofelis, ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ and Bartonella species from feral and relinquished cats in Phoenix and Nogales, Arizona. DNA from one or more of the organisms was amplified from 31 of 112 blood samples (27.7%). DNA consistent with Bartonella clarridgeiae 15 (13.4%), Bartonella henselae 14 (12.5%), ‘Candidatus M haemominutum’ 9 (8.0%), and M haemofelis 5 (4.5%) were detected. DNA of Ehrlichia species, Neorickettsia risticii, or A phagocytophilum was not amplified. Failure to amplify DNA of A phagocytophilum may relate to the absence of appropriate tick vectors. Failure to amplify Ehrlichia species DNA suggests that cats were not exposed, exposed but not infected, or infected but the DNA was not detected by the PCR assay used in this study. The Bartonella species and hemoplasma results suggest flea control should be maintained.