Showing papers in "Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery in 2017"

Efficacy of a 3C-like protease inhibitor in treating various forms of acquired feline infectious peritonitis.

Abstract: Objectives The safety and efficacy of the 3C-like protease inhibitor GC376 was tested on a cohort of client-owned cats with various forms of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). Methods Twenty cats from 3.3-82 months of age (mean 10.4 months) with various forms of FIP were accepted into a field trial. Fourteen cats presented with wet or dry-to-wet FIP and six cats presented with dry FIP. GC376 was administered subcutaneously every 12 h at a dose of 15 mg/kg. Cats with neurologic signs were excluded from the study. Results Nineteen of 20 cats treated with GC376 regained outward health within 2 weeks of initial treatment. However, disease signs recurred 1-7 weeks after primary treatment and relapses and new cases were ultimately treated for a minimum of 12 weeks. Relapses no longer responsive to treatment occurred in 13 of these 19 cats within 1-7 weeks of initial or repeat treatment(s). Severe neurologic disease occurred in 8/13 cats that failed treatment and five cats had recurrences of abdominal lesions. At the time of writing, seven cats were in disease remission. Five kittens aged 3.3-4.4 months with wet FIP were treated for 12 weeks and have been in disease remission after stopping treatment and at the time of writing for 5-14 months (mean 11.2 months). A sixth kitten was in remission for 10 weeks after 12 weeks of treatment, relapsed and is responding to a second round of GC376. The seventh was a 6.8-year-old cat with only mesenteric lymph node involvement that went into remission after three relapses that required progressively longer repeat treatments over a 10 month period. Side effects of treatment included transient stinging upon injection and occasional foci of subcutaneous fibrosis and hair loss. There was retarded development and abnormal eruption of permanent teeth in cats treated before 16-18 weeks of age. Conclusions and relevance GC376 showed promise in treating cats with certain presentations of FIP and has opened the door to targeted antiviral drug therapy.

ISFM Consensus Guidelines on the Diagnosis and Management of Hypertension in Cats.

Abstract: Practical relevance: Feline hypertension is a common disease in older cats that is frequently diagnosed in association with other diseases such as chronic kidney disease and hyperthyroidism (so-called secondary hypertension), although some cases of apparent primary hypertension are also reported. The clinical consequences of hypertension can be severe, related to 'target organ damage' (eye, heart and vasculature, brain and kidneys), and early diagnosis followed by appropriate therapeutic management should help reduce the morbidity associated with this condition. Clinical challenges: Despite being a common disease, routine blood pressure (BP) monitoring is generally performed infrequently, probably leading to underdiagnosis of feline hypertension in clinical practice. There is a need to: (i) ensure BP is measured as accurately as possible with a reproducible technique; (ii) identify and monitor patients at risk of developing hypertension; (iii) establish appropriate criteria for therapeutic intervention; and (iv) establish appropriate therapeutic targets. Based on current data, amlodipine besylate is the treatment of choice to manage feline hypertension and is effective in the majority of cats, but the dose needed to successfully manage hypertension varies between individuals. Some cats require long-term adjuvant therapy and, occasionally, additional therapy is necessary for emergency management of hypertensive crises. Evidence base: These Guidelines from the International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM) are based on a comprehensive review of the currently available literature, and are aimed at providing practical recommendations to address the challenges of feline hypertension for veterinarians. There are many areas where more data is required which, in the future, will serve to confirm or modify some of the recommendations in these Guidelines.

Use of single-dose oral gabapentin to attenuate fear responses in cage-trap confined community cats: a double-blind, placebo-controlled field trial.

Abstract: Objectives This double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluated the safety and efficacy of single-dose oral gabapentin administered for the attenuation of fear responses in cage-trap confined community cats. Methods Community cats presented in cage traps for trap-neuter-return (TNR) were recruited and screened for inclusion. Each enrolled cat was randomly assigned and administered one of three equal-volume, single-dose treatments: placebo, low-dose gabapentin (50 mg) or high-dose gabapentin (100 mg). At baseline, 1, 2, 3 and 12 h post-administration, a single, blinded observer scored each cat for signs of fear and sedation using published paradigms, calculated the respiratory rate and documented any observable facial injuries. Results Fifty-three cats met the inclusion criteria and completed the study. Cat stress score (a measure of fear) was lower in cats that received gabapentin (50 or 100 mg) than in cats that received placebo (50 mg: P = 0.027; 100 mg: P = 0.029), with the greatest reduction at 2 h post-treatment ( P = 0.0007). Respiratory rates did not differ between treatment groups. There was no difference in sedation scores between the groups ( P = 0.86) at any time point ( P = 0.09). Cat facial injuries did not vary by treatment group or over time. No adverse effects were detected specific to gabapentin administration. At 1 h, hypersalivation was observed in four cats across all treatment groups. All cats recovered from surgery and anesthesia uneventfully. Conclusions and relevance This study supports the hypothesis that 50 mg or 100 mg gabapentin (9.2-47.6 mg/kg per cat) reduces fear responses in confined community cats without measurable sedation over 3 h post-administration vs placebo. Gabapentin treatment was well tolerated in this population of cats. Further studies are recommended to investigate the use of oral gabapentin earlier in the TNR process, such as immediately after trapping or prior to transport for the prevention of confinement-related injuries.

Single and mixed feline lungworm infections: clinical, radiographic and therapeutic features of 26 cases (2013–2015)

Abstract: Objectives The aim of this study was to retrospectively describe clinical, radiographic and therapeutic features of feline lungworm infection. Methods Medical records of cats with lungworm diagnosis, thoracic radiography and without concurrent diseases between 2013 and 2015 were reviewed. Collection of data included physical examination, haematology, serum biochemistry, therapy with a variety of anthelmintics and outcomes. Results Thirty-seven records were recovered and 26 were included in the study. Single infections by Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (n = 15), Troglostrongylus brevior (n = 3) and Capillaria aerophila (n = 1) and coinfections by T brevior/ A abstrusus (n = 6) and T brevior/ C aerophila (n = 1) were diagnosed. The most common respiratory signs were coughing (n = 12), increased vesicular sounds (n = 10), dyspnoea (n = 9), such as laboured breathing, orthopnoea or open-mouth breathing, and tachypnoea (n = 6). Two cats were subclinically infected. The most common laboratory abnormality was anaemia (n = 7). Radiographic patterns recorded were interstitial (n = 24), bronchial (n = 21), alveolar (n = 10) and vascular (n = 2). Twenty-five cats had a complete recovery within 2-6 weeks of therapy. One kitten died 7 days after the diagnosis. Conclusions and relevance Lungworms should always be included in the differential diagnosis in cats living in endemic areas and presenting with respiratory signs and radiographic abnormalities. A copromicroscopic examination should be considered as the first diagnostic step for all cats at risk of lungworm infections. In most cases, timely therapy with a variety of anthelmintics guarantees recovery.

Detection of Leptospira DNA in urine and presence of specific antibodies in outdoor cats in Germany

Abstract: Objectives Clinical manifestation of infection with Leptospira species in cats is rare. Nevertheless, cats can develop specific antibodies against the spirochetes after infection. In Canada, Taiwan and the USA it was recently demonstrated that naturally infected cats can also shed DNA from pathogenic Leptospira species in their urine, but the zoonotic potential of infected cats is still unclear. The objective of this study was to demonstrate if outdoor cats in Germany shed DNA from pathogenic Leptospira species in their urine. As a second aim, antibody prevalence was determined. Methods Two hundred and fifteen outdoor cats were prospectively recruited. Urine samples were tested by real-time PCR targeting the lipL32 gene of pathogenic Leptospira species. Antibody titres against eight serovars (Australis, Autumnalis, Bratislava, Canicola, Copenhageni, Grippotyphosa, Pomona, Saxkoebing) belonging to seven serogroups (Australis, Autumnalis, Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pomona, Sejroe) were determined by microscopic agglutination test. Results Urine samples from 7/215 cats (3.3%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.9-5.7) were PCR-positive. Specific antibodies were detected in 35/195 cats (17.9%; 95% CI: 12.5-23.3) with titres ranging from 1:100 to 1:6400. Australis, Bratislava and Grippotyphosa were the most common serovars. Conclusions and relevance Outdoor cats in Germany can shed DNA from pathogenic Leptospira species. Therefore, outdoor cats should be considered as a possible source of infection for dogs or humans. Further studies are needed to determine the role of Leptospira species as a cause of disease in cats.

Detection of feline coronavirus spike gene mutations as a tool to diagnose feline infectious peritonitis

Abstract: Objectives Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is an important cause of death in the cat population worldwide. The ante-mortem diagnosis of FIP in clinical cases is still challenging. In cats without effusion, a definitive diagnosis can only be achieved post mortem or with invasive methods. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of a combined reverse transcriptase nested polymerase chain reaction (RT-nPCR) and sequencing approach in the diagnosis of FIP, detecting mutations at two different nucleotide positions within the spike (S) gene. Methods The study population consisted of 64 cats with confirmed FIP and 63 cats in which FIP was initially suspected due to similar clinical or laboratory signs, but that were definitively diagnosed with another disease. Serum/plasma and/or effusion samples of these cats were examined for feline coronavirus (FCoV) RNA by RT-nPCR and, if positive, PCR products were sequenced for nucleotide transitions within the S gene. Results Specificity of RT-nPCR was 100% in all materials (95% confidence interval [CI] in serum/plasma 83.9-100.0; 95% CI in effusion 93.0-100.0). The specificity of the sequencing step could not be determined as none of the cats of the control group tested positive for FCoV RNA. Sensitivity of the 'combined RT-nPCR and sequencing approach' was 6.5% (95% CI 0.8-21.4) in serum/plasma and 65.3% (95% CI 50.4-78.3) in effusion. Conclusions and relevance A positive result is highly indicative of the presence of FIP, but as none of the control cats tested positive by RT-nPCR, it was not possible to confirm that the FCoV mutant described can only be found in cats with FIP. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the usefulness of the sequencing step including FCoV-RNA-positive cats with and without FIP. A negative result cannot be used to exclude the disease, especially when only serum/plasma samples are available.

Use of cefovecin in a UK population of cats attending first opinion practices as recorded in electronic health records

Abstract: Objectives The objective was to use electronic health records to describe the use of cefovecin (Convenia; Zoetis UK), a third-generation long-acting injectable antimicrobial, in a UK population of cats attending first-opinion practices, and to compare the use of Convenia with the licensed uses described on the UK Convenia datasheet. Methods Data were obtained as an Excel database from the Small Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network for all feline consultations containing the word Convenia and/or cefovecin from 1 September 2012 to 23 September 2013 inclusive. Entries were classified according to body system treated, confirmation or suspicion of an abscess, evidence of microbiological evaluation being performed, any concurrent therapies given and whether any reason was given for use of Convenia over alternative antimicrobials. Data were exported to IBM SPSS Statistics and descriptive analysis performed. Results In total, 1148 entries were analysed. The most common body system treated was skin in 553 (48.2%) entries, then urinary (n = 157; 13.7%) and respiratory (n = 112; 9.8%). Microbiological evaluation was recorded in 193 (16.8%) entries, with visible purulent material most commonly cited (in 147 [12.8%] entries). A reason for prescribing Convenia over alternative antimicrobials was given in 138 (12.0%) entries; the most cited was an inability to orally medicate the cat in 77 (55.8%) of these entries. Excluding 131 entries where no body system or multiple body systems were described, the use of Convenia complied with a licensed use in the UK datasheet in 710 (69.8%) of 1017 entries. Conclusions and relevance Most administrations were licensed uses; however, most entries did not describe any microbiological evaluation, or a reason for prescribing Convenia over alternative antimicrobials. Further education of the public and the veterinary profession is needed to promote antimicrobial stewardship in the UK. Health records provide a valuable tool with which to monitor, both locally and at scale, the use of important therapeutics like antimicrobials. Information relevant to decision-making should be recorded in individual animal health records.

The conundrum of feline Trichomonosis.

Abstract: Practical relevance: Trichomonosis of the large intestine of the cat was described as a cause of chronic diarrhea over 20 years ago. The trichomonad was identified as Tritrichomonas foetus, with a genotype that is distinct from venereal T foetus of cattle. Clinical challenges: Despite multiple means for diagnosis of the infection, including light microscopy, protozoal culture and PCR amplification using species-specific primers, tests with even greater sensitivity are needed. Feline trichomonosis is resistant to all commonly used antiprotozoal drugs. Ronidazole is currently the only drug demonstrated to be effective in eliminating the infection from cats; however, this drug has a narrow safety margin and clinical resistance is increasingly recognized. The more we learn about trichomonosis in cats, the more complicated and controversial the infection has become, ranging from what we should call the organism to whether we should even bother trying to treat it. Global importance: Feline trichomonosis is recognized to occur worldwide and is regarded as one of the most common infectious causes of colitis in the domestic cat. The infection is widespread in catteries and shelters; and, while remission of diarrhea may occur over time, persistence of the infection is common. Evidence base: This review provides a comprehensive examination of what is currently known about feline trichomonosis and pinpoints areas, based on the authors' opinion, where further research is needed.

Usefulness of acute phase proteins in differentiating between feline infectious peritonitis and other diseases in cats with body cavity effusions

Abstract: Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the measurement of acute phase proteins (APPs) as a diagnostic tool to differentiate between feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and other diseases in cats with body cavity effusions. Methods Cats with pleural, abdominal or pericardial effusion were prospectively enrolled. Cats were classified as having or not having FIP based on immunohistochemistry (if available) or a sophisticated statistical method using machine learning methodology with concepts from game theory. Cats without FIP were further subdivided into three subgroups: cardiac disease, neoplasia and other diseases. Serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin (Hp) and α1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) were measured in serum and effusion, using assays previously validated in cats. Results Serum and effusion samples were available for the measurement of APPs from 88 and 67 cats, respectively. Concentrations of the APPs in serum and effusion were significantly different in cats with and without FIP ( P <0.001 for all three APPs). The best APP to distinguish between cats with and without FIP was AGP in the effusion; a cut-off value of 1550 µg/ml had a sensitivity and specificity of 93% each for diagnosing FIP. Conclusions and relevance AGP, particularly if measured in effusion, was found to be useful in differentiating between FIP and other diseases, while SAA and Hp were not. The concentration of all three APPs in some diseases (eg, septic processes, disseminated neoplasia) was as high as in cats with FIP; therefore, none of these can be recommended as a single diagnostic test for FIP.

Prevalence of feline herpesvirus-1, feline calicivirus, Chlamydophila felis and Mycoplasma felis DNA and associated risk factors in cats in Spain with upper respiratory tract disease, conjunctivitis and/or gingivostomatitis:

Abstract: Objectives Our objective was to perform the first multicentric study in Spain to evaluate the prevalence of feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), feline calicivirus (FCV), Chlamydophila felis and Mycoplasma felis in cats with upper respiratory tract disease (URTD), conjunctivitis and/or gingivostomatitis (GS) compared with control cats; and to evaluate risk factors for these clinical conditions. Methods Conjunctival and oropharyngeal swabs were collected and a questionnaire regarding signalment, lifestyle, vaccination history and clinical signs was obtained for each cat. Swabs were tested for each pathogen by real-time PCR. Results The study population consisted of 358 cats, including 98 control cats. Among the 260 diseased cats, 127 cats presented with URTD, 149 cats had conjunctivitis, 154 cats were suffering GS; many cats presented more than one clinical condition. The prevalence observed of FHV-1, FCV, C felis and M felis was, respectively, 28.3%, 48.0%, 20.5% and 46.5% in cats with URTD; 24.2%, 43.6%, 19.5% and 38.3% in cats with conjunctivitis; and 15.6%, 58.4%, 9.1% and 37.7% in cats with GS. Prevalences in the control group were 6.1%, 15.3%, 2.0% and 20.4%, respectively. Coinfections were common among all groups of cats. Risk factors were identified for all groups. FHV-1, FCV and C felis were associated with URTD and conjunctivitis. FCV was strongly associated with GS. M felis was present in a high percentage of the population in all groups, but its role in these clinical conditions remains uncertain. Vaccination was protective for URTD and GS but not for conjunctivitis. Conclusions and relevance This epidemiological study describes, for the first time, prevalence for FHV-1, FCV, C felis and M felis in Spain. In general, the prevalences found are similar to those reported in other countries. Factors associated with disease expression were also identified, which are relevant for practitioners.

Clinical, pathological, immunohistochemical and molecular characterization of feline chronic gingivostomatitis.

Abstract: Objectives This study presents the clinical, pathological, immunohistochemical and molecular characterization of 26 cats with feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCG). Methods Oral mucosal biopsies, blood and swabs were collected from cats presenting with oral lesions. The tissue sections were submitted for histopathology and immunohistochemical analysis for feline calicivirus (FCV), feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). The swabs were subjected to PCR analysis for FCV, and blood for FeLV and FIV. Results The main clinical findings were dysphagia (88.2%), halitosis (76.5%), sialorrhea (47.1%), weight loss (41.2%), intense oral discomfort (35.3%), oral hemorrhage (17.6%), and lackluster and fragile coat (11.8%). Gross inspection revealed bilateral lesions across the palatoglossal fold to the lateral tongue base. The lesions were diffuse, proliferative, intensely red and friable, and bled easily upon examination in 80.8% of cases. In 23.1% of cases, the lesions were multifocal to coalescent, at times forming multiple vesicles on a reddened, edematous palatoglossal fold. Microscopic examination showed that 15.4% of lesions had moderate (grade 2) and 84.6% had severe (grade 3) inflammation. Immunohistochemistry revealed the presence of FeLV antigens in the epithelium and the inflammatory infiltrate of 30.8% of the cats with FCG. FCV antigens were not detected in the FCG lesions. Conclusions and relevance The FCG cases analyzed could not be correlated with FCV. It is possible that FeLV plays a role as a causal agent of lesions in cases where the presence of the virus has been confirmed by immunohistochemistry in epithelial samples.

Feline coronavirus quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction on effusion samples in cats with and without feline infectious peritonitis

Abstract: Objectives The aim of the study was to determine whether feline coronavirus (FCoV) RNA in effusion samples can be used as a diagnostic marker of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP); and in FCoV RNA-positive samples to examine amino acid codons in the FCoV spike protein at positions 1058 and 1060 where leucine and alanine, respectively, have been associated with systemic or virulent (FIP) FCoV infection. Methods Total RNA was extracted from effusion samples from 20 cats with confirmed FIP and 23 cats with other diseases. Feline coronavirus RNA was detected using a reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay (qRT-PCR), and positive samples underwent pyrosequencing of position 1058 with or without Sanger sequencing of position 1060 in the FCoV spike protein. Results Seventeen (85%) of the effusion samples from 20 cats with FIP were positive for FCoV RNA, whereas none of the 23 cats with other diseases were positive. Pyrosequencing of the 17 FCoV-positive samples showed that 11 (65%) of the cats had leucine and two (12%) had methionine at position 1058. Of the latter two samples with methionine, one had alanine at position 1060. Conclusions and relevance A positive FCoV qRT-PCR result on effusions appears specific for FIP and may be a useful diagnostic marker for FIP in cats with effusions. The majority of FCoVs contained amino acid changes previously associated with systemic spread or virulence (FIP) of the virus.

Comparison of real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction of peripheral blood mononuclear cells, serum and cell-free body cavity effusion for the diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis.

Abstract: Objectives Diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) remains challenging, especially in cats without effusions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of a real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) detecting feline coronavirus (FCoV) RNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and serum in comparison with the same real-time RT-PCR in cell-free body cavity effusion. Methods This prospective case-control study included 92 cats. Forty-three cats had a definitive diagnosis of FIP, established either by histopathological examination (n = 28) or by positive immunofluorescence staining of FCoV antigen in macrophages of effusions (n = 11), or by both methods (n = 4). Forty-nine control cats had other diseases but similar clinical signs. Real-time RT-PCR was performed on PBMCs of 37 cats (21 cats with FIP, 16 controls), on serum of 51 cats (26 cats with FIP, 25 controls) and on cell-free body cavity effusion of 69 cats (36 cats with FIP, 33 controls). Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, including 95% confidence intervals (CI), were calculated. Results Real-time RT-PCR of PBMCs, serum and cell-free body cavity effusion showed a specificity of 100% (95% CI 79.4-100% in PBMCs, 86.3-100% in serum, 89.4-100% in cell-free body cavity effusion) and a sensitivity of 28.6% (95% CI 11.3-52.2%) in PBMCs, 15.4% (95% CI 4.4-34.9%) in serum and 88.9% (95% CI 73.9-96.9%) in cell-free body cavity effusion to diagnose FIP. Conclusions and relevance Although it is known that RT-PCR can often provide false-positive results in healthy cats, this real-time RT-PCR was shown to be a specific tool for the diagnosis of FIP when applied in a clinical setting. Sensitivity in cell-free body cavity effusion was high but low in PBMCs and serum. PBMC samples showed a higher sensitivity than serum samples, and are therefore a better choice if no effusion is present.

Retrospective evaluation of toceranib phosphate (Palladia) in cats with oral squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract: Objectives The aim of the study was to determine the clinical benefit and adverse event profile of toceranib phosphate in the treatment of feline oral squamous cell carcinoma (FOSCC). Methods Data obtained from the medical records of cats with oral squamous cell carcinoma diagnosed between 2010 and 2014 treated with toceranib phosphate were compared with medical record data from cats that did not receive toceranib, cytotoxic chemotherapy or radiation, to determine the response to toceranib treatment and adverse event profile of toceranib in cats. Concurrent use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) was allowed. Results Forty-six cats with FOSCC were included; 23 received treatment with toceranib (group 1) and 23 did not (group 2). The overall biological response rate in group 1 was 56.5%. Median survival time of toceranib-treated cats was significantly longer at 123 days compared with 45 days in cats not treated with toceranib ( P = 0.01). Cats achieving stable disease or better on toceranib therapy had significantly longer progression-free survival ( P <0.0001) and median survival ( P = 0.0042) times than those with progressive disease on toceranib. Administration of NSAIDs was also associated with significantly improved survival time ( P = 0.0038) among all cats. Anorexia was common but may reflect the underlying disease in these patients. Toceranib was well tolerated in cats, with the most common side effect being mild gastrointestinal toxicity. Conclusions and relevance Toceranib was well tolerated in cats with oral squamous cell carcinoma and may lead to improved survival times, especially when combined with NSAIDs. NSAID administration was also associated with improved survival times, and the relative benefit of toceranib and NSAIDs is difficult to determine from this retrospective study. Despite improvement in survival times, long-term survival in this patient population remained poor. As toceranib was well tolerated and may improve survival time, prospective evaluation of toceranib alone is warranted to assess response as a single agent and as part of multimodal therapy in an effort to achieve a more durable response in FOSCC.

Frequency, clinicopathological features and phylogenetic analysis of feline morbillivirus in cats in Istanbul, Turkey:

Abstract: Objectives The aim of the study was to investigate feline morbillivirus (FmoPV) frequency, phylogeny and associated pathology in cats in Istanbul, Turkey. Methods Samples from sick (n = 96) and dead ( n = 15) cats were analysed using reverse transcription PCR. Blood and urine analyses and histopathology were also performed. Results FmoPV RNA was detected in six cats (5.4%), including three sick (in the urine) and three dead cats (tissues). A significantly greater proportion of FmoPV RNA-positive cats had street access compared with non-infected cats. Blood samples from the morbillivirus-positive cats were negative for morbillivirus RNA. Tubular parenchymal cells, lymphoid and plasma cells in kidney and hepatocytes, lymphoid and plasma cells in liver from dead cats were also positive by immunohistochemistry for the viral N protein. Two FmoPV-positive cats were also positive for feline coronavirus RNA and one cat for feline immunodeficiency virus RNA and feline leukaemia virus proviral DNA. Phylogenetic analysis of the six FmoPV-positive cats showed that the strains were grouped into cluster D and had high similarity (98.5-100%) with strains from Japan and Germany. In the three FmoPV RNA-positive sick cats, respiratory, urinary and digestive system signs were observed as well as weight loss, fever and depression in some cats. Similar clinical signs were also seen in the morbillivirus RNA-negative sick cats. FmoPV RNA-positive cats had lower median red blood cell count, haemoglobin, albumin, albumin/globulin and urobilinogen and higher alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin compared with non-infected cats. Significant histopathology of FmoPV RNA-positive dead cats included tubulointerstitial nephritis characterised by severe granular and vacuolar degeneration of the epithelial cells of the cortical and medullary tubules as well as mononuclear cell infiltrates. Widespread lymphoid cell infiltrates were detected in the renal cortex and medullary regions of the kidneys. Cellular infiltration, cholangiohepatitis and focal necrosis in the liver were also found. Although virus-infected cells were found in the kidney and liver of FmoRV RNA-positive cats, tubulointerstitial nephritis, cholangiohepatitis and focal necrosis seen in FmoRV RNA-positive cats were similar to those observed in FmoRV RNA-negative cats. Conclusions and relevance This is the first study to show the presence of FmoPV infection in cats in Turkey. Sick cats, particularly those with kidney disease, should be tested for this virus. The genotypes found in this study were similar to previously reported strains, indicating that circulating morbilliviruses in Turkey are conserved.

Therapeutic effects of an alpha-casozepine and L-tryptophan supplemented diet on fear and anxiety in the cat.

Abstract: Objectives This study assessed the anxiolytic effectiveness of a test diet (Royal Canin Feline Calm diet) supplemented with L-tryptophan and alpha-casozepine. Methods Subjects were 24 cats that were classified as mildly or markedly fearful based on the presence of a person in their home room. Three different protocols were used to assess anxiety: (1) evaluation of the response to a human in the cat's home room (home room test); (2) analysis of the response to placement in an empty test room (open-field test); and (3) analysis of the response to an unfamiliar human (human interaction test). All three protocols were first run at baseline, and the results were used to assign the animals to control and test diet groups that showed equivalent fear and anxiety. Both groups were retested on the three protocols after 2 weeks (test 1) and again after 4 weeks (test 2). Results The diet groups differed for two behavioral measures in the open-field test: inactivity duration and inactivity frequency. The control group showed statistically significant increases in inactivity duration between baseline and test 1 and baseline and test 2, while the group fed the test diet showed a marginally not significant decrease in inactivity duration between baseline and test 1 and a not significant decrease for test 2. There was also a significant increase in inactivity frequency between baseline and test 1 in the test diet group and marginally not significant decrease in the control group. There were no differences between groups in the approach of the cats toward people for the home room test and the human interaction test. Conclusions and relevance These results suggest that the test diet reduced the anxiety response to placement in an unfamiliar location, but that fear in the presence of an unfamiliar person was not counteracted by the diet.

Effect of a high phosphorus diet on indicators of renal health in cats

Abstract: Objectives High phosphorus intake may further impair renal health in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) The hypothesis that a high phosphorus (HP) diet might be nephrotoxic for healthy animals was tested in cats, a species with a high incidence of naturally occurring CKD Methods Thirteen healthy adult cats were fed a phosphorus excess diet (about five times maintenance requirements), and this HP group was compared with cats on a balanced control diet (CON) The trial lasted for 29 days (10 days of faeces and urine collection) Endogenous creatinine clearance was determined towards the end of the trial Fresh urine was tested for glucose and proteins Results Glucosuria and microalbuminuria were observed exclusively in the HP group in 9/13 cats Creatinine clearance was significantly decreased after feeding HP In the HP group phosphorus was highly available (apparent digestibility around 60%) Renal phosphorus excretion was significantly increased in the HP group (115 mg/kg body weight/d vs 16 mg/kg body weight/d in the CON group) Conclusions and relevance The intake of a diet with an excessive content of highly available phosphorus may have adverse effects on parameters of kidney function in healthy cats

Peculiarities of feline hyperadrenocorticism: Update on diagnosis and treatment.

Abstract: Practical relevance: Hyperadrenocorticism (HAC) is a relatively uncommon endocrinopathy of older cats, with a mean age at diagnosis of 10 years. In addition to pituitary-dependent and adrenal-dependent hypercortisolism, clinical signs of HAC can result from adrenal sex steroid-producing tumours. Clinical challenges: While HAC in cats has many similarities to canine HAC, there are key differences in presentation, diagnosis and response to therapy. Most, but not all, cats with HAC have concurrent diabetes mellitus, which is often insulin resistant. Up to a third of cats with HAC have extreme skin fragility and are at high risk of debilitating iatrogenic skin tears during diagnostic or therapeutic interventions. Infections of the skin and nail beds, and urinary, respiratory and gastrointestinal tract, secondary to cortisol-induced immune suppression, are also common. Cats respond differently to dogs to adrenal function tests including adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation and dexamethasone suppression tests; a 10-fold higher dose of dexamethasone is recommended in cats to screen for HAC. Curative treatment options include adrenalectomy or transsphenoidal hypophysectomy. Radiation or medical treatment may improve clinical signs. The response to mitotane therapy is poor. While trilostane is the medical treatment of choice based on retrospective studies, investigations into the pharmacokinetics of this drug in cats are lacking. Global importance: Feline HAC occurs worldwide and is not associated with any purebreed predisposition. Although uncommon, adrenal sex steroid-producing tumours have a higher prevalence in cats than in dogs. Evidence base: The information in this review is drawn from over 180 reported cases of feline HAC. Reports investigating clinical presentation, clinicopathological findings and treatment outcomes are observational, retrospective multiple case series (EBM grade III) or single case reports (EBM grade IV). While most endocrine testing studies for diagnosis are cohort controlled analytical studies (EBM grade III), prospective, randomised, placebo-controlled studies have been performed (EBM grade I).

Subclinical bacteriuria in cats: prevalence, findings on contemporaneous urinalyses and clinical risk factors.

Abstract: Objectives Subclinical bacteriuria (SB) is bacterial colonization of the urinary tract in the absence of clinical signs. The purposes of this study were to determine the prevalence of SB in cats and to describe results of the contemporaneous urinalysis. Secondarily, patient characteristics associated with SB were compared with those for cats without SB. Methods An electronic search identified all urine cultures performed on cats at a teaching hospital between 2009 and 2015. Results were subcategorized based on the presence or absence of lower urinary tract disease (LUTD) and SB-positive cases identified. The first control population was from samples without LUTD. The second control population was from all samples not identified as a SB-positive sample, including subclinical negative samples and those with LUTD. Five controls for each SB-positive sample were selected for both control groups. Medical records for all groups were reviewed. Results In all, 31/500 (6.2%) subclinical samples were positive. Most infections were a single organism (n = 27); four contained multiple organisms. Escherichia coli was the most common species (58%) followed by Enterococcus species (25%). Positive specimens were more likely to be from female cats (n = 24) vs male (n = 7; P = 0.0054). SB was strongly associated with bacteriuria (60% vs 6%; P <0.0001) and pyuria (67% vs 19%; P <0.0001). Positive specimens were significantly more likely to have an abnormal sediment examination (odds ratio 13.5, P <0.0001). When compared with all specimens including those with LUTD, SB was significantly associated with a lower urine specific gravity (1.022 vs 1.030; P = 0.0256) and presence of chronic kidney disease (68% vs 46%; P = 0.0168). Conclusions and relevance In this study, SB appears to be uncommon in cats and, in most cases, is associated with an abnormal urine sediment examination. Based on this study, there is little indication to perform a culture in a cat with no clinical signs of LUTD and an unremarkable sediment examination.

Feline corneal sequestra: outcome of corneoconjunctival transposition in 97 cats (109 eyes).

Abstract: Case series summary A retrospective study was undertaken to review outcomes of keratectomy and corneoconjunctival transposition in cats with superficial and deep corneal sequestra. Information including pertinent history, signalment, ophthalmological findings and postoperative outcome was collected from medical records. Follow-up was obtained by clinical examination, contact with the referring veterinarians and review of medical records or telephone contact with owners. Ninety-seven cats (109 eyes) were included from 2005-2015. The most commonly affected breeds included Persian, Burmese and Himalayan. The mean age at the time of surgery was 6.8 years (median 6.5 years; range 8.0 months-18.0 years). A corneal sequestrum in the contralateral eye was diagnosed in 28 cats (28.9%). Recurrent corneal sequestration was diagnosed in eight cats (nine eyes), with recurrence occurring a mean of 703 days after surgery (range 29-1750 days). Age, sex, breed, depth of sequestration and concurrent ocular disease in the contralateral eye were compared between cats with and without recurrence, with no risk factors for recurrence identified. Relevance and novel information Excellent surgical outcomes have previously been described in a series of 17 cats with superficial and mid-stromal corneal sequestra. This paper adds further information to the literature by describing a larger series of cats, with corneal sequestra affecting the full range of corneal thickness, and good long-term postoperative outcomes.

Analgesic effects of gabapentin and buprenorphine in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy using two pain-scoring systems: a randomized clinical trial

Abstract: ObjectivesThe aim of the study was to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of gabapentin–buprenorphine in comparison with meloxicam–buprenorphine or buprenorphine alone, and the correlation between two pain-scoring systems in cats.MethodsFifty-two adult cats were included in a randomized, controlled, blinded study. Anesthetic protocol included acepromazine–buprenorphine–propofol–isoflurane. The gabapentin–buprenorphine group (GBG, n = 19) received gabapentin capsules (50 mg PO) and buprenorphine (0.02 mg/kg IM). The meloxicam–buprenorphine group (MBG, n = 15) received meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg SC), buprenorphine and placebo capsules (PO). The buprenorphine group (BG, n = 18) received buprenorphine and placebo capsules (PO). Gabapentin (GBG) and placebo (MBG and BG) capsules were administered 12 h and 1 h before surgery. Postoperative pain was evaluated up to 8 h after ovariohysterectomy using a multidimensional composite pain scale (MCPS) and the Glasgow pain scale (rCMPS-F). A dynamic interactive visual analog sca...

Drug exposure and clinical effect of transdermal mirtazapine in healthy young cats: a pilot study.

Abstract: Objectives The objective of this study was to measure drug exposure and clinical effects after administration of transdermal mirtazapine (TMZ) in healthy cats. Methods Phase I: seven healthy research cats received (1) 3.75 mg and 7.5 mg TMZ once aurally with 48 h serum sampling (serum samples were obtained via the jugular catheter at 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 9, 12, 24, 36 and 48 h); (2) 7.5 mg TMZ and placebo daily aurally for 6 days then 48 h serum sampling; (3) 1.88 mg mirtazapine orally once with serum sampling at 1, 4 and 8 h. Phase II: 20 client-owned cats were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, three-way crossover clinical effect study. Treatments consisted of 6 days of aural 7.5 mg TMZ or placebo gel at home, and 1.88 mg mirtazapine orally once in the clinic. Owners documented appetite, rate of food ingestion, begging activity and vocalization daily at home. On day 6, food consumed, activity and vocalization were documented in hospital, and trough and peak serum mirtazapine levels were obtained. Serum mirtazapine and gel concentrations were measured using liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. Results Phase I: administration of TMZ achieved measureable serum mirtazapine concentrations. Area under the curve0-48 of multidose 7.5 mg TMZ was significantly higher than single-dose 1.88 mg oral mirtazapine (OMZ) ( P = 0.02). Phase II: client-owned cats administered TMZ had a significant increase in appetite ( P = 0.003), rate of food ingestion ( P = 0.002), activity ( P = 0.002), begging ( P = 0.002) and vocalization ( P = 0.002) at home. In hospital there was a significant increase in food ingested with both TMZ and OMZ compared with placebo ( P <0.05). Gel concentrations ranged from 87%-119% of target dose. Conclusions and relevance TMZ 7.5 mg daily achieves measureable serum concentrations and produces significant appetite stimulation despite variance in compounded gel concentrations, but side effects denote a lower dose is indicated.

Anaplasma, Ehrlichia and Rickettsia species infections in cats: European guidelines from the ABCD on prevention and management

Abstract: OVERVIEW: Anaplasma species, Ehrlichia species and Rickettsia species are vector-borne pathogens infecting a wide variety of mammals, but causing disease in very few of them. Infection in cats: Anaplasma phagocytophilum is the most important feline pathogen among these rickettsial organisms, and coinfections are possible. Little information is available on the pathogenesis of these agents in cats. Clinical signs are usually reported soon after tick infestation. They are mostly non-specific, consisting of fever, anorexia and lethargy. Joint pain may occur. Infection in humans: Some rickettsial species ( A phagocytophilum, Ehrlichia chaffeensis, Ehrlichia ewingii, Rickettsia conorii, Rickettsia rickettsii, Rickettsia felis, Rickettsia typhi and Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis) are of zoonotic concern. Direct contact with cat saliva should be avoided because of potential contamination by R felis. Infected cats are 'sentinels' of the presence of rickettsial pathogens in ticks and fleas in a given geographical area, and they signal a risk for people exposed to vectors.

Pain and adverse behavior in declawed cats

Abstract: ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to assess the impact of onychectomy (declawing) upon subsequent development of back pain and unwanted behavior in cohorts of treated and control cats housed in two different locations.MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study. In total, there was 137 declawed and 137 non-declawed cats, of which 176 were owned cats (88 declawed, 88 non-declawed) and 98 were shelter cats (49 declawed and 49 non-declawed). All cats were physically examined for signs of pain and barbering. The previous 2 years of medical history were reviewed for documented unwanted behavior such as inappropriate elimination and biting with minimal provocation and aggression. All declawed cats were radiographed for distal limb abnormalities, including P3 (third phalanx) bone fragments. The associations of declaw surgery with the outcomes of interest were examined using χ2 analysis, two sample t-tests and manual, backwards, stepwise logistic regression.ResultsSignificant increases in the odds of back pain...

Comparison of intramuscular alfaxalone and ketamine combined with dexmedetomidine and butorphanol for castration in cats.

Abstract: Objectives Cardiorespiratory parameters and anaesthesia quality in cats anaesthetised with either intramuscular (IM) alfaxalone or ketamine both combined with dexmedetomidine and butorphanol for castration were evaluated. Methods Thirty-two client-owned cats were randomly assigned to receive either alfaxalone (A; 3 mg/kg IM) or ketamine (K; 5 mg/kg IM), combined with dexmedetomidine (10 μg/kg) and butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg). Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR) and rectal temperature (T°) were recorded prior to drug administration. Pulse rate (PR) and RR were recorded 10 (T10) and 15 (T15) mins after injection (T0). Cardiorespiratory values (PR, RR, SPO2, blood pressure, PE'CO2) were recorded every 5 mins for the duration of the procedure. Pain at injection, intubation and recovery were evaluated with simple descriptive scores. Feasibility of anaesthesia was evaluated by the number of top-ups of anaesthetic needed. Cat attitude, ability to walk and presence of ataxia were assessed several times after extubation (Texmin) and the time between injection and extubation recorded. Pain was assessed at Tex120 and Tex240 with the 4Avet-pain score. Results The RR was significantly lower in group K at T10 (RRK = 28 ±13.35 breaths per minute [brpm], RRA= 43.24 ±7.04 brpm) and T15 (RRK = 28 ±11.53 brpm vs RRA = 43 ±12.18 brpm). Time to extubation was significantly longer in group A (TA = 62 ±14.6 mins, TK = 45.13 ± 7.38 mins). Cats in group K needed more top-ups, were more ataxic at Tex120, had a worse recovery score at Tex60 and were less willing to walk at Tex30. Conclusions and relevance Cats receiving alfaxalone had a longer but better quality recovery. Cardiorespiratory parameters were stable and within clinically acceptable values following IM injection of either alfaxalone or ketamine in healthy cats. Intramuscular alfaxalone is a suitable alternative to ketamine for short procedures requiring anaesthesia when used in combination with dexmedetomidine and butorphanol.

Prevalence and breed predisposition for thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease in cats.

Abstract: Objectives The objective was to evaluate the prevalence and possible breed predilections for thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) in cats. Methods Medical records and imaging studies of cats diagnosed with thoracolumbar IVDD between January 2008 and August 2014 were retrospectively reviewed and compared with the general hospital population. The association between type of IVDD (ie, intervertebral disc extrusion [IVDE] or intervertebral disc protrusion [IVDP]) and breed, age, sex, and duration and severity of clinical signs was also evaluated. Results Of 12,900 cats presented during the study period, 31 (0.24%) were diagnosed with IVDD, including 17 purebred and 14 non-purebred cats. Of all presented purebred cats, 0.52% were diagnosed with thoracolumbar IVDD. More specifically, 1.29% of all British Shorthairs and 1.83% of all presented Persians were diagnosed with IVDD. Compared with the general hospital population, purebred cats ( P = 0.0001), British Shorthairs ( P <0.0001) and Persians ( P = 0.0006) were significantly overrepresented with thoracolumbar IVDD. Affected purebred cats were younger than affected non-purebred cats ( P = 0.02). Of 31 cats with IVDD, 19 were diagnosed with IVDE and 12 with IVDP. Cats with IVDE had a significantly shorter duration of clinical signs ( P = 0.0002) and demonstrated more severe neurological deficits ( P = 0.04) than cats with IVDP. Conclusions and relevance Although thoracolumbar IVDD is an uncommon condition in cats, purebred cats, British Shorthairs and Persians, were overrepresented. It is currently unclear if this represents a true breed predisposition or a higher likelihood of owners of purebred cats seeking referral for advanced diagnostic imaging procedures.

Minimum transmission time of Cytauxzoon felis by Amblyomma americanum to domestic cats in relation to duration of infestation, and investigation of ingestion of infected ticks as a potential route of transmission.

Abstract: Objectives The objectives of the present study were to determine the duration of infestation by Amblyomma americanum necessary for transmission of Cytauxzoon felis to domestic cats and to determine if ingestion of C felis-infected A americanum by cats is a route of transmission. Methods Forty-nine cats were assigned to one of seven groups, with seven cats per group. Cats were infested with A americanum adults, acquisition fed as nymphs on a cytauxzoonosis survivor cat, for 12 h (group 1), 18 h (group 2), 24 h (group 3), 36 h (group 4), 48 h (group 5) and to repletion (group 7; control). Cats in group 6 were fed C felis-infected ticks. Thumb counts were performed at the end of the duration of infestation for groups 1-5 and at 48 h for the control group. For group 6, 50 live C felis-infected adult A americanum were mixed with food and fed to each of the cats. Transmission of C felis was determined by examining blood of cats by DNA extraction followed by PCR. Results Of 50 ticks placed on each cat (groups 1-5 and 7), the arithmetic mean attachment ± SEM ranged from 46.9 ± 1.9 in group 3 to 49.3 ± 0.3 in group 1. In group 6, the average number ± SEM of ticks ingested was 46.5 ± 2.3. One cat in group 5 that had been infested for 48 h became infected with C felis. None of the cats in group 6 (ingestion) became infected with C felis. Six of 7 (85.7%) cats in group 7, the control group, became infected with C felis. Conclusions and relevance Our results indicate that transmission of C felis to domestic cats can happen as quickly as >36 h but ⩽48 h of exposure to A americanum infected with C felis and that ingestion of C felis-infected A americanum is not a likely route of transmission.

Management and long-term outcome of pelvic fractures: a retrospective study of 43 cats:

Abstract: Objectives The aim of the study was to evaluate the management and long-term outcome of cats with pelvic fractures. Methods Cats with pelvic fractures had their records and radiographs reviewed. Radiographs were reviewed for fracture configuration, implants and pelvic canal narrowing. Owners were contacted for long-term follow-up. Results Forty-three cats met the criteria (mean follow-up 24 months [range 6-45 months]). The majority (93%) had more than one orthopaedic pelvic injury, with sacroiliac fracture luxations seen most commonly; 23% had presurgical neurological deficits. Most cats (74%) were managed surgically; 60% of sacroiliac fracture luxations, 82% of ilial fractures and 50% of acetabular fractures received surgery. The complication rate was 22%, most commonly sciatic neurapraxia (13%). Seventy-nine percent of all neurological deficits resolved and the remainder improved. Mean pelvic canal narrowing after trauma was -15% in surgical and -16% in conservatively managed cats. Canal width was improved postoperatively (-8%) but mildly narrowed further by follow-up (-12%); however, these changes were not significant. Nineteen percent of cats had constipation postsurgery; none developed megacolon. There was no clear correlation between the degree of narrowing of the pelvic canal up to -50%, or whether conservative treatment was opted for, and the development of constipation. Long-term mobility was not impaired in 86% of cats, and 84% did not have any lameness detectable. Conclusions and relevance The majority of cats were managed surgically, with a 22% complication rate; the most common being transient sciatic neurapraxia. Long-term outcome was generally excellent and most had a full recovery. Constipation/obstipation was very uncommon and no clear relationship with pelvic canal narrowing could be found when considering narrowing of up to -50% in both surgical and conservative groups. As no cats in this cohort had narrowing greater than -50%, the current recommendation of surgery to improve the canal width if narrowing is greater than -45% to -50% should remain.

Investigation into the utility of an immunocytochemical assay in body cavity effusions for diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis

Abstract: Objectives Feline coronaviruses (FCoVs) exist as two biotypes, feline enteric coronavirus and feline infectious peritonitis virus. Although feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a very common disease, the ante-mortem diagnosis of this disease still remains a challenge. Immunofluorescence staining of FCoV in macrophages in effusion has been considered as the reference standard for the diagnosis, but recently this method has been shown to have lower specificity than previously reported. In addition, this method is not widely available and requires the use of fluorescence microscopes. Therefore, it was the aim of this study to evaluate the diagnostic potential of an immunocytochemical (ICC) assay using body cavity effusion. Methods Effusion samples from 27 cats with immunohistochemically confirmed FIP and 29 cats with suspected FIP but a definitive diagnosis of another disease were examined. ICC specimens were evaluated with respect to positive immunostaining. In addition, effusion samples were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and evaluated cytologically. Results A diagnostic sensitivity of 85.2% was recorded for effusion specimens (95% confidence interval [CI] 66.3-95.8), while the diagnostic specificity was only 72.4% (95% CI 52.8-87.3). Conclusions and relevance Once the clinical disease of FIP develops in a cat, it always leads to death, and most of the cats are euthanased within a few days or weeks. As false-positive results might lead to euthanasia of cats suffering from potentially treatable diseases, the diagnostic specificity of a diagnostic tool is the most important factor in a fatal disease like FIP. Thus, the diagnostic utility of this test proved to be insufficient and positive ICC results should be interpreted with caution. Nevertheless, full-body necropsy could not be performed in 13/29 control cats. It is possible that these cats actually suffered from early-stage FIP and that this fact might have influenced the diagnostic specificity of the ICC. Based on the results of the present study, however, ICC of effusion samples currently cannot be recommended to confirm a suspicion of FIP.

Alloimmunisation in transfused patients: serial cross-matching in a population of hospitalised cats.

Abstract: ObjectivesCross-matching is currently recommended as part of pre-transfusion testing for repeat transfusions in cats 4 days after having received an initial transfusion. This prospective study dete...