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Preputioplasty is a surgical procedure performed to increase the orifice diameter. This study was aimed to describe the clinical outcome of eight feline acquired phimosis that underwent preputioplasty. History, age, breed, body weight, urine and blood analysis, radiographic, ultrasonographic and clinical findings at the time of diagnosis were recorded and collected. Surgical procedures in cats were completed without any complications except for one cat, which had post-operative stricture formation. Normal urination was observed following surgeries in all cases. This cat required perineal urethrostomy surgery. In conclusion, preputioplasty was performed successfully in 7 of 8 cats. The outcome of preputioplasty in cats was good, except for one case that needs a second surgery due to a stricture subsequently formed. Future studies with larger case numbers are needed to confirm our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flu in cats is an upper respiratory tract infection caused by viruses and bacteria of various ages. Prevention and control of vaccinations are still not widely practiced. One alternative is to provide a single supplement of colostrum, probiotics, and prebiotics. This paper reports the handling of flu cases in 2 cats aged six months (Cio) and eight months (Kaori) at the Depok Pet Center Clinic using colostrum-based supplements, probiotics, and prebiotics. A single supplementation of colostrum, probiotics, and prebiotics was carried out for seven days, and the condition of both cats showed changes. The condition of Cio's cat improved on the third day, while Kaori's cat showed less frequent sneezing and reduced concentration and volume. On the seventh day, both cats were in good condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to describe retrospective data, including causes and whether medical and surgical management is suitable for feline dystocia. Data were analysed and described according to original causes and treatment protocols were done. Data of this study revealed that the maternal causes with different types of dystocia were the major percentage. The highest percentage was recorded in 2020 which was 80.00%, while the lowest rate was in 2018 which was 66.00%. The highest foetal causes percentages were in 2018 which was 33.00%, while the lowest rate was in 2020 which was 20.00%. Data also revealed the percentage of treatment types for dystocia in cats in the period between 2018-2021 which were 17.07 % of hormonal treatment and 82.93% of Caseran Section operation. Results of the present study conclude that the best method for treating dystocia in cats was the cesarean section. The author advised using estrogen and Oxytocin hormones with Ca++ to treat the non-obestracting dystocia or hormonal treatment instead of using oxytocin and Ca++ alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are a variety of methods to induce anesthesia in animals. Oral anesthetic drugs are suitable for short-term restraint in most healthy animals. The aim of the present study was a comparative evaluation of the effects of anesthetic drugs ketamine, ketamine with acepromazine or midazolam as oral on vital signs, anesthesia duration, and neural reflexes in the cat. This study was performed on fifteen clinically healthy adult cats that were categorized into three equal groups A (alone ketamine), B (ketamine with acepromazine), and C (ketamine with midazolam). In group A; ketamine was administrated with a dosage 80 mg/kg oral once. In group B; first acepromazine was given 0.15 mg/kg and after thirty-minute, ketamine was eaten to cats. Group C was similar to group B; with the difference that midazolam was administrated 0.3 mg/kg instead of acepromazine. Group B had the lowest fluctuations in heart rate and group C was better for the influence on temperature and respiratory. There were no significant variations for neural reflexes; however, there was a significant difference for anesthesia duration between groups B (37.2 minutes), and C (37.4) with group A (26). Induction of anesthesia was better in groups B (14.6±1.4 minutes), and C (15.6±1.14) compared with group A (20±2.34). The time of first voluntary movement was recorded in minutes of 38.2±2.38, 43±2.43, and 44.8±3.27 for groups A, B, and C respectively. The oral administration of ketamine with midazolam or acepromazine is a better method than alone ketamine for induction of anesthesia in cats, because of the longer anesthesia duration and fewer muscle tremors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feline mammary carcinoma (FMC) is a common aggressive malignancy with a low survival rate that lacks viable therapeutic options beyond mastectomy. Recently, increasing efforts have been made to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying FMC development, using the knowledge gained from studies on human breast cancer to discover new diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, thus reinforcing the utility of the cat as a cancer model. In this article, we review the current knowledge on FMC pathogenesis, biomarkers, and prognosis factors and offer new insights into novel therapeutic options for HER2-positive and triple-negative FMC subtypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This is the first of a series of capsule reviews published by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association ‐ Global Pain Council (WSAVA‐GPC). Each of these short articles provides a brisk assessment of the scientific evidence in specific aspects of pain management, including analgesic techniques, recommendations and controversies surrounding their use. In this first capsule review, the scientific evidence available on the long‐term use of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs in cats with concomitant chronic pain and chronic kidney disease is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In China, cats cause about 5% of human rabies cases. Rabies control in cats plays a role in achieving the ultimate goal of elimination of dog rabies-mediated human deaths. However, there is no cat-specific rabies vaccine in China yet. In this study, we constructed a recombinant rabies vaccine by using a felid herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1) isolate, and deleted the gI/E in the FHV-1 and replaced the region with a glycoprotein (G) of rabies virus (RABV) strain BD06 through homologous recombination. The recombinant virus FHV-RVG was recovered and purified, and the expression of RABV glycoprotein was verified by indirect immunofluorescent assay. For potency in cats, each animal was inoculated intranasally with 1 ml FHV-RVG at 106.5 TCID 50. Blood samples were collected at defined intervals for antibody titration. The animals were challenged by herpes and rabies after completion of vaccination on day 180 and day 194, respectively. Our results demonstrated all vaccinated cats generated antibodies against both FHV-1 and RABV, and reached an arbitrary protective titer > 0.5 IU/ml for rabies viral neutralizing antibody (VNA) by day 14 post inoculation (dpi) and titer peaked on 30 dpi with VNA at 24.5 ± 10.23 IU/ml. All vaccinated cats presented no clinical signs of FHV-1 infection and survived rabies challenge, while the control cats had severe rhinotracheitis and died from rabies after challenge. All this demonstrated that the FHV-based recombinant vaccine is effective in protection against both FHV-1 and RABV infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CASE DESCRIPTION A 2-year-old 5.2-kg (11.4-lb) neutered male domestic shorthair cat was referred because of a 6-week history of progressive paraparesis. CLINICAL FINDINGS Neurologic examination revealed moderate ambulatory paraparesis with marked spinal hyperesthesia at the thoracolumbar junction. The lesion was localized to the T3-L3 spinal cord segment. Clinicopathologic testing, thoracic radiography, and abdominal ultrasonography revealed no abnormalities to explain the observed clinical signs. Advanced spinal imaging with MRI revealed an extradural right-lateralized mass originating from the L2 vertebral pedicle and causing severe spinal cord compression. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME Surgical decompression was achieved by performance of a right-sided hemilaminectomy at L2. Histologic examination of biopsy samples obtained from the mass revealed an ill-defined zone of mature vascular proliferation extending through the preexisting vertebral bone, consistent with vertebral angiomatosis. A fter surgical recovery, adjuvant radiation therapy was initiated with a total dose of 48 Gy administered in 16 fractions of 3 Gy each over a 3-week period. Neurologic function rapidly improved to full ambulation with only minimal monoparesis of the right pelvic limb. Results of neurologic and MRI examination performed 26 months after surgery indicated no change in neurologic status o r evidence of recurrence. CLINICAL RELEVANCE To the authors' knowledge, this report was the first to describe the long-term outcome for vertebral angiomatosis in a cat. Surgical decompression and radiation therapy provided an excellent outcome in this case. Vertebral angiomatosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis for any young cat with thoracolumbar myelopathy secondary to a mass associated with the vertebral pedicle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peripheral odontogenic fibroma (POF) is an uncommon finding in the mouth of cats. Few cases have been reported in the literature. The present report describes an adolescent, male-castrated domestic shorthair cat with POFs at the rostral upper and lower jaws that were treated via marginal excision including removal of underlying bone. Despite the high incidence of recurrence reported in the literature, recheck examinations up to 11 months postoperatively did not show regrowth of the gingival masses. Thus, marginal excision including removal of underlying bone appears to be a viable treatment option for POF in cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A three-year-old neutered male mixed-breed cat was referred for tachypnea, decreased appetite, and lethargy due to a pleural effusion secondary to myocardial failure. Severe left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) dilation, extremely decreased fractional shortening of the LV, and spontaneous echocardiographic contrast in the LA appendage were noted on an echocardiogram. Medical treatments included furosemide, pimobendan, benazepril, clopidogrel, and taurine supplementation. During follow-up visits, tachypnea was not observed, and his activities and appetite returned to normal. Echocardiography showed normal LA and LV chambers and increased LV fractional shortening. The point-of-care test result for N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) was abnormal during the first two visits (day 1 and day 16), and the concentration of plasma NT-proBNP was 1500 pmol/L and 349 pmol/L, respectively. On the third and fourth visits (day 35 and day 70), the point-of-care test result for NT-proBNP was normal and corresponded with normal echocardiography findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital feline hypothyroidism was diagnosed in a 10-month-old kitten. The kitten appeared to have disproportionate dwarfism, with the clinical signs of incompletely erupted permanent dentition covered by thickened gingival tissue, short stature, a broad, flattened face, short neck, pendulous abdomen, kitten-like hair coat, and goiter. Hypothyroidism was confirmed with baseline T4, freeT4, and thyroid-stimulating hormone testing. The kitten was treated with thyroid hormone supplementation and monitored. The kitten appeared clinically like a normal healthy cat at 22 months of age on thyroid supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To describe animal owners’ experiences with palliative radiation therapy (PRT) of pets and identify factors influencing satisfaction with their pets’ treatment. DESIGN Retrospective, cross-sectional study. SAMPLE 118 owners of dogs, cats, or rabbits. PROCEDURES Medical records were searched to identify animals that underwent PRT between 2004 and 2013. Signalment, tumor-related data, and outcome information were recorded. Owners completed an electronic survey assessing satisfaction with treatment (ie, satisfaction with the decision for their pet to undergo PRT and indication that they would choose PRT for their pet again), expectations regarding PRT, and perceptions of their pets’ quality of life (QOL) and signs of discomfort from acute adverse radiation effects. Additional data regarding practical aspects of treatment, pet death, communications with veterinarians, and owner demographics were collected. Variables were tested for association with measures of owner satisfaction. RESULTS 92 of 116 (79%) owners were satisfied with the decision to have their pets undergo PRT. Most (92/118 [78%]) owners reported their pet’s QOL improved after PRT; these owners were significantly more likely to be satisfied than those who did not report improved QOL. Owners who perceived their pets had discomfort from adverse radiation effects (38/116 [33%]) were significantly less likely to be satisfied than owners who did not report this observation. Measures of satisfaction were not associated with patient survival time. Twenty-one of 118 (18%) owners indicated they expected PRT would cure their pet’s tumor. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that short life expectancy should not deter recommendation of PRT for pets. Protocols that minimize risk of acute adverse effects may be advantageous. Veterinarians should attempt to ensure that owners understand the goals of PRT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prognosis of feline gastrointestinal mast cell tumours (FGIMCT), based on limited available literature, is described as guarded to poor, which may influence treatment recommendations and patient outcome. The purpose of this study is to describe the clinical findings, treatment response, and outcome of FGIMCT. Medical records of 31 cats diagnosed with and treated for FGIMCT were retrospectively reviewed. Data collected included signalment, method of diagnosis, tumour location (including metastatic sites), treatment type, cause of death and survival time. Mean age was 12.9 y. Diagnosis was made via cytology (n = 15), histopathology (n = 13) or both (n = 3). Metastatic sites included abdominal lymph node (n = 10), abdominal viscera (n = 4) and both (n = 2). Therapeutic approaches included chemotherapy alone (n = 15), surgery and chemotherapy (n = 7), glucocorticoid only (n = 6) and surgery and glucocorticoid (n = 3). Lomustine (n = 15) and chlorambucil (n = 12) were the most commonly used chemotherapy drugs. Overall median survival time was 531 d (95% confidence interval 334, 982). Gastrointestinal location, diagnosis of additional cancers, and treatment type did not significantly affect survival time. Cause of death was tumour‐related or unknown (n = 12) and unrelated (n = 8) in the 20 cats dead at the time of analysis. The prognosis for cats with FGIMCT may be better than previously reported, with 26% of cats deceased from an unrelated cause. Surgical and medical treatments (including prednisolone alone) were both associated with prolonged survival times. Treatment other than prednisolone may not be necessary in some cats. Continued research into prognostic factors and most effective treatment strategies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To evaluate potential associations between surgical approach and complication rate, progression-free survival time, and disease-specific survival time in cats with mammary adenocarcinoma. DESIGN Retrospective case series. ANIMALS 107 client-owned cats. PROCEDURES Medical records of cats that underwent surgical excision of mammary adenocarcinoma by means of a unilateral o r bilateral (staged o r single-session) mastectomy at 9 hospitals between 1991 and 2014 were reviewed. Relevant clinicopathologic data and details of surgical and adjuvant treatments were recorded. Outcome data were obtained, including postoperative complications, progression-free survival time, and disease-specific survival time. RESULTS Complications occurred in 12 of 61 (19.7%) cats treated with unilateral mastectomy, 5 of 14 (35.7%) cats treated with staged bilateral mastectomy, and 13 of 32 (40.6%) cats treated with single-session bilateral mastectomy. Complications were significantly more likely to occur in cats undergoing bilateral versus unilateral mastectomy. Median progression-free survival time was longer for cats treated with bilateral mastectomy (542 days) than for cats treated with unilateral mastectomy (289 days). Significant risk factors for disease progression included unilateral mastectomy, tumor ulceration, lymph node metastasis, and tumors arising in the fourth mammary gland. Significant risk factors for disease-specific death included lymph node metastasis and development of regional or distant metastasis. Among cats that did not develop metastasis, unilateral mastectomy was a significant risk factor for disease-specific death. Treatment with chemotherapy was associated with a significantly decreased risk of disease-specific death. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results supported bilateral mastectomy for the treatment of mammary adenocarcinoma in cats to improve progression-free and disease-specific survival time. Performing bilateral mastectomy in a staged fashion may help to decrease the complication rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this retrospective study were to evaluate the efficacy of different steroid formulations (depot vs oral) and if the continuous administration of steroids throughout and beyond a CHOP protocol might improve the survival time and rate of cats with mediastinal lymphoma. The medical records of client-owned cats diagnosed with mediastinal lymphoma were reviewed at two veterinary referral hospitals in Spain. Cases were recruited from 2008 to 2016. Those cats with mediastinal lymphoma treated with chemotherapy were used in the collection of data including surgical procedures, chemotherapy protocol, side effects, complete remission (CR), partial remission and survival time were calculated from time of diagnosis. The median survival time (MST) of group with depot steroid was 370.7 days and all cats are still alive. The MST of group with oral steroid was 267.9 days. The survival distributions were found to be significantly different. The use of depot injectable steroids with a CHOP-based protocol seems to result in a longer survival time in patients with mediastinal lymphoma when comparing the survival distribution for those receiving oral steroids with a CHOP-based protocol. Prospective studies with a higher number of cats are warranted to investigate the utility of injectable steroids depot with a CHOP-based protocol in the treatment of mediastinal lymphoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CASEDE SCRIPTION An 18-month-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat was evaluated because of conjunctivitis and skin-fold dermatitis secondary to bilateral microphthalmia, corneal dermoids, and ankyloblepharon. CLINICAL FINDINGS Physical examination revealed bilateral microphthalmia, bilaterally symmetrical corneal dermoids, ankyloblepharon, superior and inferior entropion, prognathism, and facial asymmetry with deviation of the nasal septum. Computed tomography revealed malformed, thickened bony orbits with mineralization of the orbital ligament bilaterally. Moderate rightward deviation of the nasal septum and ventral nasal meatus was also evident, with no identifiable maxillary sinuses. Results of MRI of the brain were unremarkable. Abdominal ultrasonography showed an irregularly marginated left kidney and a right kidney defect suggestive of chronic renal infarction. An abnormal, well-demarcated, focally thickened region of the muscularis externa of the jejunum was also evident. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME Transpalpebral enucleation was performed bilaterally. Histologic examination of ocular tissues confirmed the corneal dermoids and microphthalmia with anterior and posterior segment dysgenesis and cataracts in both eyes. Ocular discomfort resolved after postoperative recovery, and follow-up revealed that the patient's activity level and quality of life were excellent. No clinical signs of upper respiratory, urinary, or gastrointestinal tract disease were observed during the approximately 3.5-year follow-up period. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The congenital abnormalities observed resembled those described for human patients with Goldenhar syndrome, and the outcome of treatment was favorable. This report may prompt clinicians to consider this diagnosis when evaluating young cats with similar clinical signs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mooren's ulcer is a chronic and painful ulceration of the cornea. It begins progressively in the periphery and spread centrally in cornea. In human, it is seen uniaterally in most of cases. Mooren ulcer has not been reported in any kind of animals up to now. Although its aetiology is not completely enlighted, it has been suspected of the inflammatory reaction against injuries-microbiological and immun mediated effects. Immun response in presence of accumulation of immune complexes into the limbal vessels. As a result of the deficit in the regulatory mechanism because the number of suppressor cells control over B and T lymphocytes, These situations can result in a progressive tendancy to inflammation because the production of autoantibodies and/or lymphokine from cytotoxic T-lymhocytes creates an immune-mediated vasculitis. Numerous immigrant inflammatory cells and proteins are evaded from vessels. After triggering inflammatory cells and releasing of meditors, corneal vascularization, scar tissue and re-epithelization develop. This regenerative-reperative process plays an important role during post-inflammatory process. Case: In this case, it was aimed to detect pathomorphological structure and immunologic relations in progressive Mooren's ulcer (MU). A 1 year-old mix breed cat was submitted to clinic with complaints of progressive painful and eyesight loss in left eye. There were 1 cm-ulceration, opacification and old haemorrhagic areas at peripheral cornea. Histopathologically, there was wide ulceration including all layers of corneal epithelium and particularly vacuolar degeneration at suprabasal cells. In corneal stroma, numerous neutrophiles and mononuclear cells were infiltrated. Neovascularisation and fibrosis beginning from limbus were also present. This fibrotic progress was confirmed by Masson's trichrome staining method. Immunohistochemically, Cytokeratin 3 (CK3) and cytokeratin 12 (CK12) positivities showing regenerative activity of suprabasal and basal cells were not widespread. Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) positivities were generally weak in epithelial cells. In stroma, moderate vimentin positivities were detected proliferated in fibrocytes originating from limbus. a1- antichymotrypsin (A1AC) was mildly reacted in neutrophiles. CD3 and CD4 confirmed the presence of regulatory and helper T lymphocytes. CD3 and CD8 marked cytotoxic T lymphocytes and CD20 marked B lymphocytes in inflammatory areas. CD34 were also positive in peripheral corneal stem cells derived from limbal basal epitheliums in partly regenerated area. CD57 positivity in T lymphocytes and NK cells and CD68 positivity in macrophages were attended to the area. Discussion: CD1a positivity in T lymphocytes proved mediating lipid and microbial origin glycolipid antigens. TUNEL reactions showing DNA in situ fragmentation were present in the destructive and aging epithelial cells at periphery. In conclusion, the case has been found as unique in terms of its immunohistochemical characterization. The markers show that CD1a and CD68 expressions follow different progress in animals unlike in humanbeings even though the ulcer of pathogenetic mechanism is found identical to humanbeings.. The roles of CD20 and CD57 markers have potential roles in this ulcer. It is also concluded that insufficient epithelial regeneration, fibrosis, inflammation and apoptosis showed progressive Mooren's ulcers having possibly microbial origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Repeated PO dosing of anti‐epileptic drugs may contribute to poor compliance in treated cats. Intermediate‐release levetiracetam has been used safely in cats, but must be given q8h to maintain serum concentrations in the therapeutic interval for humans (5–45 μg/mL). Approved extended‐release levetiracetam (XRL) for human use may require less frequent dosing, but the large dosing unit has limited its use in cats. Hypotheses: In healthy cats, serum levetiracetam concentration will remain above 5 μg/mL for at least 24 hours after administration of a single dose of XRL PO and will be well tolerated. Animals: 7 healthy cats. Methods: Extended‐release levetiracetam (500 mg) was administered PO. Blood was collected and neurologic examination findings recorded at scheduled times over 30 hours. Serum levetiracetam concentration was quantitated by an immunoassay validated in cats. Data were subjected to noncompartmental analysis. Descriptive statistics were reported. Results: The median dosage of 86.2 mg/kg, (range, 80–94.3) achieved a mean maximum concentration (Cmax) of 89.8 ± 25.8 μg/mL at 4.9 ±1.57 hours. Serum levetiracetam was >5 μg/mL in all cats by 90 minutes. Mean concentrations were 43.7 ± 18.4 and 4.9 ± 3.4 μg/mL at 12 and 24 hours, respectively. The half‐life was 4.1 ± 1.0 hours. The drug was well tolerated. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: A single 500 mg PO dose of XRL safely maintained serum levetiracetam concentration ≥5 μg/mL in healthy cats for at least 21 hours. Clinical efficacy studies in epileptic cats receiving XRL are indicated; however, monitoring should be implemented for individual cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common progressive and irreversible disease in cats. The efficacy and safety of beraprost sodium (BPS) in cats with CKD have not been evaluated. Hypothesis/Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of BPS in the treatment of cats with CKD, as compared to placebo. Animals: Seventy‐four client‐owned cats with naturally occurring CKD. Methods: Double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, multicenter, prospective, randomized trial. The cats received BPS (55 μg/cat) or a placebo PO q12 h for 180 days. The primary endpoint was prospectively defined as a change in the serum creatinine (sCr), serum phosphorus‐to‐calcium ratio or urine specific gravity (USG). Results: The sCr increased significantly (P = 0.0030) in the placebo group (mean ± SD: 2.8 ± 0.7 to 3.2 ± 1.3 mg/dL) but not in the BPS group (2.4 ± 0.7 to 2.5 ± 0.7 mg/dL). The difference between the groups at day 180 was significant (0.8 mg/dL, 95% CI: 0.2 to 1.3 mg/dL, P = 0.0071). The serum phosphorus‐to‐calcium ratio was significantly (P = 0.0037) increased in the placebo group (0.46 ± 0.10 to 0.52 ± 0.21 mg/dL) but not in the BPS group (0.50 ± 0.08 to 0.51 ± 0.11 mg/dL). There was no significant change in the USG in either group. An adverse event judged as being treatment‐related included vomiting that occurred in 1 case in the placebo group. No clinically relevant change was observed in the CBC and other blood chemistry tests. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Beraprost sodium treatment was well tolerated and safe in cats with CKD. BPS inhibited the reduction in renal filtration function as measured by sCr increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 7-year-old female spayed domestic shorthair cat was referred to the urology service for nonsurgical urocystolith removal. A urolith was attached to the urothelium by ectopic bone. Interventional removal without surgery was successful. Follow-up evaluation 3 years after urolith removal revealed recurrent uroliths, bladder wall mineralization, and marked renal mineralization. This case illustrates the metaplastic potential of the urothelium and that ectopic bone should be included among the pathological factors that promote lithogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hydroxyethyl-starch ( HES) solutions might have renal adverse effects in humans and dogs. Objective To determine if administration of 6% HES-130/0.4 is associated with an increase in serum creatinine concentration and development of acute kidney injury ( AKI) in nonazotemic cats. Animals A total of 62 critically ill cats; 26 HES exposed and 36 unexposed. Methods Retrospective cohort study (2012-2015). Serum creatinine concentrations were recorded and changes in serum creatinine concentrations before exposure (baseline) and 2-10 and 11-90 days, respectively, were determined. Development of AKI was defined as a > 150% increase or >26 μmol/L increase in serum creatinine concentration from baseline. Risk factors, such as HES administration, cumulative volume of HES (mL/kg) and number of days of HES administration leading to development of AKI, and change in serum creatinine were analyzed. Results Cats in the HES cohort received a mean volume of 98.5 ± 76.2 mL/kg (range, 8-278 mL/kg) HES over a median of 4 (range, 1-11) days, resulting in a median dose of 20.1 (range, 8-40.5) mL/kg per day. Short-term %change in serum creatinine concentration ( P = 0.40) and development of AKI ( P = 0.32) were not significantly different between cohorts. Multivariable logistic regression did not identify HES dose in mL/kg ( P = 0.33) and number of days of HES application ( P = 0.49) as a risk factor for development of AKI. Conclusion and Clinical Importance Hydroxyethyl-starch administration to critically ill nonazotemic cats seems to be safe. A larger prospective study is required to determine the effect of HES administration at higher dosages and for prolonged time periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Erroneous neutrophil and lymphocyte counts from analysis of feline blood samples were transferred directly into the hospital information system from the ProCyte Dx hematology instrument in our after-hours laboratory. Errors usually were not detected by the users. Hypothesis/Objectives To quantify the frequency and severity of errors associated with the ProCyte Dx analyzer and to identify methods to avoid the errors. Animals One-hundred six EDTA blood samples routinely submitted from feline hospital patients were analyzed. Methods ProCyte differential leukocyte counts were compared to 2 reference methods: Advia 2120 hematology instrument and manual enumeration. Limits for unacceptable deviation from the reference methods were defined as 18 for % lymphocytes and 23 for % neutrophils. Results Fourteen of 106 samples had unacceptable errors for both lymphocytes and neutrophils compared to both reference methods. Median % lymphocytes in those 14 samples were 11.2, 15.0, and 53.0% for Advia, manual, and ProCyte, respectively. Median % neutrophils were 85.4, 81.5, and 34.2% for Advia, manual, and ProCyte, respectively. All errors were avoided by rejecting automated ProCyte differential leukocyte results whenever the dot plot appeared clearly incorrect, but only 9 of these 14 samples had a ProCyte WBC distribution error flag. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Results reported by ProCyte had markedly falsely increased lymphocyte and decreased neutrophil counts in 13% of feline patient samples. Users must reject automated differential leukocyte count results when the WBC dot plot appears overtly incorrect. Rejection based only on ProCyte WBC error flag was insufficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To compare the complication rates and outcomes in cats with ureteral obstruction treated by placement of double-pigtail ureteral stents or ureteral bypass (UB) devices. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. ANIMALS: Cats with unilateral or bilateral ureterolithiasis that received double-pigtail ureteral stents (30 stents in 27 cats; stent group) or UB devices (30 devices in 23 cats; UB group). PROCEDURES: Medical records were reviewed to collect data on signalment, clinical signs, serum biochemical data, surgical procedure, duration of hospitalization, complications, and follow-up (= 6 months after placement) information. Outcomes were compared between device types. RESULTS: Median durations of surgery and hospitalization were significantly longer in the stent versus UB group. Perioperative mortality rate was 18% (5/27) in the stent group and 13% (3/23) in the UB group. Median survival time was shorter in the stent versus UB group. Stent placement was associated with a greater risk of lower urinary tract-related signs, such as hematuria (52% [14/27]) and pollakiuria or stranguria (48% [13/27]). The risk of device occlusion was also greater in the stent (26% [7/27]) versus UB (4% [1/23]) group. The percentage of cats requiring additional procedures to treat complications was greater in the stent (44%; complications included uroabdomen, stent occlusion, and refractory cystitis) versus UB (9%; complications included UB occlusion and urethral obstruction) group. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Although the benefits of stent placement in the treatment of ureteral obstruction in cats have been established, results suggested that cats treated with UB devices had a lower risk of complications and a longer survival time than those treated with double-pigtail ureteral stents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to distinguish between cats with cardiac disease and non-cardiac disease by using parameters obtained from thoracic radiographs. This study was performed in 49 cats with a mean age of 7.7±4.79 years. Weight, sex and breed of all cats were randomly chosen. Echocardiography was used as a gold standard to diagnose cardiac disease and separate the cats into two groups, cardiac disease (n=31) and non-cardiac disease (n=18). Five parameters were measured from the right lateral radiographs including 1) the cardiac length (L), 2) the cardiac width (W), 3) the width of the caudal vena cava (CVC), 4) the height of the spinous process of the fourth thoracic vertebrae (sT4), and 5) the length of the fourth sternal thoracic bone (S4). Ten formulae were designed from the five parameters. Five of these formulae produced an outcome showing a significant difference between the two groups (p<0.05). These formulae included L•W, L•W/sT4, L•W/S4, SUMLW/S4, and SUMLW•CVC. This study recommends the formulae L•W (cut-off >16.45 cm2; sensitivity of 82.2% and specificity of 67%) and L•W/S4 (cut-off >12.85 cm; sensitivity of 81.7% and specificity of 66.9%). In conclusion, these two new formulae can be used as a screening tool for distinguishing cats with cardiac and non-cardiac diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 7-year-old cat was referred with pelvic limb ataxia. Radiography and CT revealed bone resorption of the L1 vertebral arch, and myelography identified a compressive extradural lesion. The mass was surgically removed and histopathologically diagnosed as giant cell osteosarcoma. Three years later, the recurrent tumor resection and vertebral fixation were performed. Six months later, vertebrectomy was performed to radically excise the recurrent mass and a titanium spinal cage was placed. The cat is alive approximately 5 years after the first surgery. This case report describes vertebrectomy and vertebral body replacement as a radical treatment for feline vertebral osteosarcoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goals of this retrospective clinical case series study were to describe the management of anesthesia, and to report perioperative complications in cats undergoing subcutaneous ureteral bypass (SUB) placement due to ureteral obstruction. Medical records of client-owned cats with ureteral obstruction and anesthetized for SUB placement between 2012 and 2015 in a veterinary teaching hospital were reviewed. Twenty-seven cases were identified. Duration of anesthesia and surgery (mean ± standard deviation) were 215 ± 42 min and 148 ± 36 min, respectively. Hypothermia was the most common intraoperative complication. Hypotension, hypocapnia, hypertension and bradycardia were also frequently observed. Out of 22 cats who experienced intraoperative hypotension, 17 received inotropes and vasopressors. There was a significant decrease in creatinine (P=0.008) and total solids (P=0.007) after SUB placement when compared with baseline values. Postoperative complications included pain, anorexia, nausea, hypertension, and urinary tract-related problems. No death occurred in the postoperative period. Successful management of anesthesia for SUB placement involves rigorous anesthetic monitoring and immediate treatment of complications. Perioperative complications appear to be common. This study could not identify risk factors associated with this procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A three-year-old spayed domestic short-haired cat presented for evaluation of weight loss, cardiomegaly and pleural effusion. Echocardiographic examination demonstrated a thickened pericardium with mild pericardial effusion and a large volume of pleural effusion characterized by exudate. Although the cat was treated with antibiotics, the clinical symptoms did not improve. The cat developed dyspnea and died on day 7. Necropsy revealed a large amount of modified transudates ascites, pleural effusion and markedly dilated pericardium. Histopathological examination revealed severe exudation of fibrin and granulation tissue in a thick layer of the epicardium. The cat was diagnosed with fibrinous pericarditis secondary to bacterial infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose:Doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded phosphatidyldiglycerol-based thermosensitive liposomes (DPPG2-TSL-DOX) combined with local hyperthermia (HT) was evaluated in cats with locally advanced spontaneous fibrosarcomas (soft tissue sarcoma [STS]). The study was designed to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetic profile of the drug. Results from four dose-levels are reported. Methods:Eleven client-owned cats with advanced STS were enrolled. Five cats received escalating doses of 0.1–0.4 mg/kg DOX (group I), three received 0.4 mg/kg constantly (group II) and three 0.6 mg/kg (group III) IV over 15 min. HT with a target temperature of 41.5 °C was started 15 min before drug application and continued for a total of 60 min. Six HT treatments were applied every other week using a radiofrequency applicator. Tumour growth was monitored by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and for dose level III also with18F-FDG PET. Results:Treatment was generally well tolerated and reasons for premature study termination in four cats were not associated with drug-induced toxicity. No DPPG2-TSL-DOX based hypersensitivity reaction was observed. One cat showed simultaneous partial response (PR) in MRI and positron emission tomography (PET) whereas one cat showed stable disease in MRI and PR in PET (both cats in dose level III). Pharmacokinetic measurements demonstrated DOX release triggered by HT. Conclusion:DPPG2-TSL-DOX + HT is a promising treatment option for advanced feline STS by means of targeted drug delivery. As MTD was not reached further investigation is warranted to determine if higher doses would result in even better tumour responses. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Investigations of the relationships between the gut microbiota and gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes are attracting growing interest by the scientific community, driven by the need to better understand the contribution of parasite-associated changes in the composition of the gut flora to both host malnutrition and immune modulation. These studies have however been carried out mainly in humans and experimental animals, while knowledge of the make-up of the gut commensal flora in presence or absence of infection by parasitic nematodes in domestic animals is limited. In this study, we investigate the qualitative and quantitative impact that infections by a widespread parasite of cats (i.e. Toxocara cati) exert on the gut microbiota of feline hosts. Methods: The faecal microbiota of cats with patent infection by T. cati (= Tc+), as well as that of negative controls (= Tc-) was examined via high-throughput sequencing of the V3-V4 hypervariable region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene, followed by bioinformatics and biostatistical analyses of sequence data. Results: A total of 2,325,366 useable high-quality sequences were generated from the faecal samples analysed in this study and subjected to further bioinformatics analyses, which led to the identification of 128 OTUs and nine bacterial phyla, respectively. The phylum Firmicutes was predominant in all samples analysed (mean of 53.0%), followed by the phyla Proteobacteria (13.8%), Actinobacteria (13.7%) and Bacteroidetes (10.1%). Among others, bacteria of the order Lactobacillales, the family Enterococcaceae and genera Enterococcus and Dorea showed a trend towards increased abundance in Tc+ compared with Tc- samples, while no significant differences in OTU richness and diversity were recorded between Tc+ and Tc- samples (P = 0.485 and P = 0.581, respectively). However, Canonical Correlation and Redundancy Analyses were able to separate samples by infection status (P = 0.030 and P = 0.015, respectively), which suggests a correlation between the latter and the composition of the feline faecal microbiota. Conclusions: In spite of the relatively small number of samples analysed, subtle differences in the composition of the gut microbiota of Tc+ vs Tc- cats could be identified, some of which in accordance with current data from humans and laboratory animal hosts. Nevertheless, the findings from this study contribute valuable knowledge to the yet little explored area of parasite-microbiota interactions in domestic animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy of 10% w/v fipronil spot-on for treatment and prevention of Rhipicephalus sanguineus infestation on cats was examined. Twelve cats were randomly allocated into two groups which were the treatment and control groups. The treatment group received 10% fipronil spot-on at a dosage of 6.7 mg/kg on day 0. A group of 60 R. sanguineus was released to feed on each cat on days -7, -2, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28. The ticks were counted and removed on days -4, 3, 6, 10, 17, 24, and 31. The infested ticks on the cats were also counted but not removed on day 0. Geometric mean number of tick infestation in the control group ranged from 20.83 to 26.17 ticks per cat, or the attachment rate of 34.72 to 43.62% and the mean attachment rate of 39.41%. Geometric mean number of tick infestation in the treatment group on the days before fipronil was applied on the cats ranged from 24.50 to 25.83 ticks per cat, or the attachment rate of 40.83 to 43.06% and the mean attachment rate of 41.95%. Percentages of the efficacy of fipronil used in this study were 99.24, 100, 100, 100, 99.18 and 99.24% on days 3, 6, 10, 17, 24, and 31, respectively. There were statistically significant differences between the geometric mean numbers of tick infestation between the control and treatment groups on days 3, 6, 10, 17, 24, and 31. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Lynxacarus radovskyi has been observed in cats in Malaysia; previously treatment with fipronil and moxidectin/imidacloprid spot-on has been described. Objectives To compare the efficacy of two spot-on treatments of moxidectin/imidacloprid, two weeks apart to a single oral dose of fluralaner against Lynxacarus radovskyi and evaluate time to re-infestation. Methods Thirty cats were assigned to three groups of ten cats each. Group 1 received one 250 mg fluralaner tablet. Group 2 received two doses of moxidectin/imidacloprid spot-on two weeks apart. Group 3 consisted of untreated controls. For each cat, three plucks of about 50 hairs each were collected from three sites (dorsal neck, lateral thigh and perineal/tail region) for a total of nine pluckings every two weeks. Severity of infestation was scored from 0 (no parasite), to 1 (only nonhatched eggs), 2 (both hatched and nonhatched eggs), 3 (<50 mites) and 4 (>50 mites). Efficacy was compared between treatment groups and over time in the same group, and results analysed statistically. Re-infestation was defined as the identification of new eggs or mites on hair pluckings. Results Moxidectin/imidacloprid spot-on and oral fluralaner achieved 100% eradication within 28 days. No significant difference was observed between groups 1 and 2; re-infestation occurred by Day 56 in both treatment groups. Conclusion A single dose of oral fluralaner or two moxidectin/imidacloprid spot-on treatments two weeks apart are efficacious in the eradication of L. radovskyi in cats and able to prevent re-infestation for at least 42 days post-treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last 15 years, an increasing amount of study has been undertaken stating the importance of nutrition for chronically ill patients, resulting in it being widely documented. These studies have shown that the provision of a prescribed and balanced diet suiting the specific need of patients is vital in improving their longevity. The problem, however, seems to be how and when to offer these diets to prevent food aversion. Many sick animals are offered these diets in hospital, often resulting in a refusal to eat the diet at home and thereby decreasing longevity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

CASE DESCRIPTION A 17-year-old FIV-positive cat was evaluated because of weight loss during the preceding few months. The cat had a weight loss of 0.5 kg (1.1 1b) during the last month. Because of its FIV-positive status, the cat was confined indoors. CLINICAL FINDINGS A large nonpruritic area of alopecia with hyperpigmentation and comedones was present on the right lateral aspect of the neck. The chin had diffuse alopecia and comedones. Mild alopecia was present on the dorsal aspect of the muzzle. Trichography and microscopic examination of acetate tape imprint preparations and skin scrapings revealed a very morphologically heterogeneous population of Demodex mites. Micrometry of adult mites revealed a broad range of body lengths (92.68 to 245.94 μm), which suggested that as many as 3 Demodex spp might be present in the skin lesions of this cat. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME Owing to its concurrent disease, no treatment was initiated for the demodi-cosis, and the cat died spontaneously 14 days after the evaluation. Sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA gene of collected mites was performed. Analysis revealed that the 16S rRNA gene sequence of collected mites appeared 100% identical to the Demodex cati 16S rRNA gene sequence deposited in GenBank (JX193759). A similarity of 79.2% and 74.4% was found when the 16S rRNA gene sequence of collected mites was compared with that of Demodex gatoi (JX981921) and Demodex felis (KF052995), respectively. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Demodicosis in cats is often associated with underlying disease. In cats, FIV infection may lead to an altered immune response and induce species polymorphism of Demodex mites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This report describes the clinical findings and diagnostic images of a traumatic intrathoracic tracheal avulsion with a tracheal diverticulum in a cat. Furthermore, a complete description of the tracheal resection and anastomosis using one-lung ventilation (OLV) with total and partial intravenous anesthesia is made. Case Summary A 3-year-old neutered male domestic shorthair cat weighing 6.8 kg was presented to the University Teaching Hospital for evaluation of increased respiratory noise 3 months following unknown trauma. Approximately 12 weeks prior to presentation, the cat had been seen by the primary care veterinarian for respiratory distress. At that time, the cat had undergone a tracheal ballooning procedure for a distal tracheal stricture diagnosed by tracheoscopy. The tracheal ballooning had provided only temporary relief. At presentation to our institution, the cat had increased respiratory effort with harsh upper airway noise auscultated during thoracic examination. The remainder of the physical examination was normal. Diagnostics included a tracheoscopy and a thoracic computed tomographic examination. The cat was diagnosed with tracheal avulsion, pseudotrachea with a tracheal diverticulum, and stenosis of the avulsed tracheal ends. Surgical correction of the tracheal stricture via a thoracotomy was performed using OLV with total and partial intravenous anesthesia. The cat recovered uneventfully and at last follow-up was active and doing well. Unique Information Provided This case report describes OLV using standard anesthesia equipment that is available at most private practices. Furthermore, this case describes the computed tomographic images of the intrathoracic tracheal avulsion and offers a positive outcome for tracheal resection and anastomosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To describe the occurrence of hypokalemia, metabolic acidosis, and suspected renal tubular acidosis associated with the administration of topical ophthalmic carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (CAI) in a cat. Case Summary A 2-year-old, 5.3 kg, male, castrated, domestic short-haired cat developed hyporexia 6 weeks after starting topical ophthalmic dorzolamide 2% therapy for treatment of ocular hypertension. Two weeks later, the cat was evaluated for severe weakness, cervical ventroflexion, and anorexia. Plasma electrolyte and acid-base measurement revealed hypokalemia (K+ = 2.9 mmol/L; reference interval 3.8-5.4 mmol/L) and metabolic acidosis (plasma HCO3− = 9.8 mmol/L; reference interval 15-23 mmol/L) in the presence of a urine pH of 7.5 (reference interval 6.5-7.5). The pH abnormalities were consistent with a renal tubular acidosis. Clinical and biochemical abnormalities resolved with short-term supportive care, potassium supplementation, and discontinuation of dorzolamide therapy. New or Unique Information Provided This is the first report of hypokalemia and metabolic acidosis associated with topical CAI therapy in a cat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To describe the observation of persistent gross lipemia and suspected corneal lipidosis following intravenous lipid therapy (IVLT) in a cat with permethrin toxicosis. Case Summary A 5-year-old, spayed female, domestic short-haired cat with permethrin toxicosis was treated with a high dose of IVLT as an adjunct treatment when it remained severely obtunded following traditional supportive care. The cat received intravenous 20% lipid emulsion as a 1.5 mL/kg bolus given over 10 minutes followed by a constant rate infusion of 0.25 mL/kg/min for 2 hours. The cat developed gross lipemia that persisted at least 48 hours after the single dose of IVLT. Changes consistent with corneal lipidosis were observed and resolved within 1 week after IVLT. New or Unique Information Provided This is the first report documenting the complications of persistent gross lipemia and suspected corneal lipidosis in a cat following IVLT. This report underscores the off-label, experimental nature of IVLT as a treatment for intoxication in cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate the analgesic efficacy of meloxicam oral transmucosal spray (OTMS) alone and with tramadol in cats with osteoarthritis (OA). Study design Randomized, blinded study. Animals Fifteen geriatric cats weighing 4.5 ± 1.0 kg. Methods Healthy cats with OA were randomly administered a placebo (every 12 hours orally) and meloxicam OTMS (approximately 0.05 mg kg−1 every 24 hours) (group M, n = 7), or tramadol (3 mg kg−1 every 12 hours orally) and meloxicam OTMS (group TM, n = 8) for 25 days. Evaluations performed before treatment (D0) and at week 3 (W3) consisted of peak vertical force, motor activity and response to mechanical temporal summation of pain (RMTS). Data were analyzed with mixed models and Fisher's exact test. Results Mean ± standard deviation peak vertical force (percentage of body weight) increased significantly in both groups ( p = 0.02), from 47.7 ± 6.5% to 60.5 ± 9.4% in group M, and from 51.8 ± 5.0% to 64.1 ± 6.5% in group TM, with no difference between groups. Motor activity increased in M (from 43 ± 12 to 56 ± 13; p = 0.02), but not in TM. The number of stimulations from RMTS increased in TM only. Cut-off values were reached in a larger number of cats ( n = 5) in TM than M ( n = 1) ( p < 0.05). Gastrointestinal adverse effects were self-limiting in six cats, including five in TM. Conclusions and clinical relevance Meloxicam OTMS had similar effects on peak vertical force, motor activity and pain sensitization as previously reported for oral meloxicam in OA cats. The tramadol-meloxicam combination provided no evident benefit over meloxicam alone, except for central hypersensitivity (assessed with RMTS). Further assessment of the potential toxicity of the combination is required prior to clinical use. Gingival administration was well accepted overall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To determine the effects of morphine, methadone, hydromorphone or oxymorphone on the thermal threshold in cats, following buccal and intravenous ( IV) administration. Study design Randomized crossover study. Animals Six healthy adult female ovariohysterectomized cats weighing 4.5 ± 0.4 kg. Methods Morphine sulfate (0.2 mg kg−1 IV or 0.5 mg kg−1 buccal), methadone hydrochloride (0.3 mg kg−1 IV or 0.75 mg kg−1 buccal), hydromorphone hydrochloride (0.1 mg kg−1 IV or 0.25 mg kg−1 buccal) or oxymorphone hydrochloride (0.1 mg kg−1 IV or 0.25 mg kg−1 buccal) were administered. All cats were administered all treatments. Skin temperature and thermal threshold were measured in duplicate prior to drug administration, and at various times up to 8 hours after drug administration. The difference between thermal threshold and skin temperature (ΔT) was analyzed. Results Administration of methadone and hydromorphone IV resulted in significant increases in ΔT at 40 minutes after drug administration. Buccal administration of methadone resulted in significant increases in thermal threshold, although no significant difference from baseline measurement was detected at any time point. IV administration of morphine and oxymorphone, and buccal administration of morphine, hydromorphone and oxymorphone did not cause significant thermal antinociception. Conclusion and clinical relevance At the doses used in this study, IV administration of methadone and hydromorphone, and buccal administration of methadone resulted in transient thermal antinociception. The results of this study do not allow us to predict the usefulness of these drugs for providing analgesia in clinical patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To describe the ultrasonographic anatomy of the caudal lumbar spine in cats and to detect ultrasound ( US) signs associated with epidural or intrathecal injection. Study design Prospective, clinical study. Animals Twenty-six client-owned cats. Methods Transverse (position 1) and parasagittal (position 2) two-dimensional US scanning was performed over the caudal lumbar spine in all cats. Midline distances between the identified structures were measured. Cats assigned to epidural injection (group E, n = 16) were administered a bupivacaine-morphine combination confirmed by electrical stimulation. Cats assigned to intrathecal injection (group I, n = 10) were administered a morphine-iohexol combination injected at the lumbosacral level and confirmed by lateral radiography. The total volume injected (0.3 mL kg−1) was divided into two equal aliquots that were injected without needle repositioning, with the US probe in positions 1 and 2, respectively. The presence or absence of a burst of color [color flow Doppler test ( CFDT)], dural sac collapse and epidural space enlargement were registered during and after both injections. Results US scanning allowed measurement of the distances between the highly visible structures inside the spinal canal. CFDT was positive for all animals in group E. In group I, intrathecal injection was confirmed in only two animals, for which the CFDT was negative; seven cats inadvertently and simultaneously were administered an epidural injection and showed a positive CFDT during the second aliquot injection, and the remaining animal was administered epidural anesthesia and was excluded from the CFDT data analysis. Dural sac collapse and epidural space enlargement were present in all animals in which an epidural injection was confirmed. Conclusions and clinical relevance US examination allowed an anatomical description of the caudal lumbar spine and real-time confirmation of epidural injection by observation of a positive CFDT, dural sac collapse and epidural space enlargement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Vlaams Diergeneeskundig Tijdschrift is the property of Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The objective of the study was to retrospectively evaluate the short-term safety of intrathecal administration of cytosine arabinoside alone or in combination with methotrexate in dogs and cats. One hundred and twelve dogs and eight cats admitted between September 2008 and December 2013, diagnosed with suspected inflammatory (meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown aetiology) or neoplastic disease affecting brain or spinal cord and treated with an intrathecal administration of cytosine arabinoside alone or in combination with methotrexate were included in the study. Recorded information regarding possible adverse events during administration while recovering from anaesthesia and during hospitalization period were evaluated. The results showed that one patient developed generalized tonic-clonic seizure activity after administration of cytosine arabinoside and methotrexate during recovery from anaesthesia, however responded to intravenous administration of diazepam. On the base of our results we can conclude that intrathecal administration of cytosine arabinoside alone or in combination with methotrexate is a safe procedure in dogs and cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To evaluate outcomes for cats treated with orally administered famciclovir 3 times/d for clinical signs attributed to naturally occurring feline herpesvirus type I (FHV-I) infection and to assess variables related to owner satisfaction with the treatment. DESIGN Retrospective case series. ANIMALS 59 client-owned cats. PROCEDURES Medical records were reviewed to identify cats treated for presumed FHV-I infection from 2006 through 2013 with ≥ I follow-up visit. Signalment, duration of clinical signs, prior treatment, examination findings, diagnostic test results, concurrent treatments, and outcome data were recorded. Owners were asked to complete a survey regarding patient- and treatment-related variables. Data were compared between cats that received low (approx 40 mg/kg [18 mg/lb]) and high (approx 90 mg/kg [41 mg/lb]) doses of famciclovir, PO, 3 times/d. RESULTS Patient age ranged from 0.03 to 16 years. Conjunctivitis (51/59 [86/6]), keratitis (51 [86%]), blepharitis (19 [32%]), nasal discharge or sneezing (10 [17%]), and dermatitis (4 [7%]) were common findings. Clinical improvement was subjectively graded as marked in 30 (51%) cats, mild in 20 (34%), and nonapparent in 9 (15%). Median time to improvement was significantly shorter, and degree of improvement was significantly greater in the high-dose group than in the low-dose group. Adverse effects potentially attributable to famciclovir administration were reported for 10 cats. On the basis of survey responses, most (29/32 [91%]) owners were satisfied with their cat's treatment. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Famciclovir at the prescribed dosages was associated with improved clinical signs in cats with presumed FHV-I infection, and few adverse effects were attributed to the treatment. Further studies are needed to assess whether a famciclovir dosage of 90 versus 40 mg/kg, PO, 3 times/d would result in increased efficacy and shorter treatment time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]