共找到 20 条结果
To evaluate progression, globe retention, and long-term survival in cats with iris hyperpigmentation. Medical records from 2010 to 2022 were reviewed retrospectively for signalment, clinical diagnosis, and morphologic diagnosis for cats with iris hyperpigmentation. Survey of included cats' owners provided progression, globe retention, and survival data. Ninety-two cats were included in the medical record review. Twenty of 92 (22%) had been enucleated; all 20 were confirmed on histopathology as feline diffuse iris melanoma (FDIM). Owners and referring veterinarians of 36/92 (39%) cats provided follow-up data via a survey, with a median follow-up of 3.4 years. By the time of the follow-up survey, 22/36 (61%) cats had been enucleated, 10 prior to medical record review, and 11 since medical records were reviewed. There was no difference in survival rate between cats enucleated (16/22, 73%) and not enucleated (9/14, 64%), X2 = 0.29, p = 0.69. Considering cats who died (11/36, 31%), there was no difference in mean survival time between enucleated cats (6/11, survival 3.1 y) and not enucleated (5/11, survival 4.4 y), Kruskal-Wallis K = 0.53, p = 0.47. Owners of 8/14 (57%) cats that were not enucleated reported that iris pigmentation increased slowly over the years. Four of eight cats with progression had died, at a median age of 14.0 years, with a median survival of 2.0 years following initial presentation for iris hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation was not noted in any previously normal contralateral eyes. For cats with iris hyperpigmentation, based on retrospective survey data, long-term survival may not differ for those who are enucleated early and those who are not.
Feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) modified live vaccine (MLV) is designated as a core vaccine for cats. As reported here, two 2-month-old domestic short hair cats (Cat 1 and Cat 2; the two were littermates) initially presented with sneezing, nasal and ocular discharge, and ocular discomfort (Day 0), which had persisted since their vaccination. At 1.5 months of age, both cats were vaccinated with a vaccine containing the FHV-1 MLV strain F2 at another clinic. A few days later, they developed sneezing and ocular discharge almost simultaneously. Ten days after vaccination, they were diagnosed with allergic conjunctivitis and administered corticosteroid eye drops for 7 days. On Day 0, both cats presented with dendritic ulcers in one eye and a superficial corneal ulcer in the other eye. Treatment with oral antiherpesvirus medication and hyaluronic acid eye drops was initiated. A genomic analysis of FHV-1 strains isolated on Day 0 and of specimens obtained on Day 3 for real-time PCR suggested that both cats were infected with the same strain as the F2 strain and that there was no mixed infection with the field strain. Real-time PCR was performed to identify ocular surface pathogens other than FHV-1, and feline calicivirus (FCV) was detected in specimens collected from the superficial corneal ulcers of both cats on Day 3. On Day 6, dendritic ulcers in both cats healed. On Day 15, superficial corneal ulcers in both cats developed corneal crystalline deposits and deep neovascularization. In the eyes with superficial corneal ulcers in both cats, symblepharon subsequently developed in Cat 1, and eosinophilic keratitis subsequently developed in Cat 2. In conclusion, findings suggested that corneal ulcers caused by the F2 strain may be associated with the development of specific corneal lesions in cats that were young, that had a coinfection with FCV, and that were administered corticosteroids.
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a major hereditary disorder characterized by the formation of cysts in the kidneys of mammals, including humans and cats. It commonly leads to renal failure and is frequently associated with variants in the PKD1 gene. In cats, a specific PKD1 variant (chr E3:g.42858112 C > A) is a primary target for direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing aimed at identifying PKD risk. However, its broad impact on the genetic structure of cat populations remains unclear. In this study, we investigated temporal and breed-specific dynamics of feline PKD and the PKD1 variant using a large-scale dataset comprising 110,325 insured cats and 61,968 genetically tested cats across 14 breeds in Japan. Our comprehensive analysis of insured cats revealed no clear differences in claim-based detection of cystic kidneys across breeds, sexes, or ages, although notable geographic variations were observed. Among the cats diagnosed with cystic kidneys, 77.8% carried the conventional PKD1 variant. Exome and whole-genome sequencing of affected cats revealed eight potentially deleterious variants in PKD-related genes, suggesting the involvement of other genetic factors. The carrier frequency of the PKD1 variant in all 14 breeds decreased by 42.6% when comparing genetic data from 2019, when full-scale genetic testing for kittens began, and 2022. In additional analyses focusing on eight breeds with larger sample sizes, significant reductions in the proportion of heterozygous cats were observed in Scottish Folds, Persians, and Ragamuffins (49.5%, 38.8%, and 57.7% decrease, respectively) between the two time points. In contrast, no statistically significant or suggestive reductions were observed in British Shorthairs, Minuets, or Munchkins. Further genomic analyses in Scottish Folds and Persians indicated no substantial changes in overall genetic structure or inbreeding levels; however, the effective population size of cats harboring the PKD1 variant declined between these periods. These findings highlight the role of DTC genetic testing in promoting optimized breeding strategies that contribute to reducing PKD risk while avoiding inbreeding and enhancing feline welfare. To further reduce the number of risk variants, promoting genetic testing and ensuring appropriate breeding practices is necessary, particularly for breeds in which a decrease in PKD1 variants has not been observed.
Domestic cats are popular pets globally, with many individuals being allowed to roam outdoors. Free-ranging and feral cats cause environmental losses due to their predatory behavior and the transmission of diseases. The factors affecting the intentions of owners to release and abandon their cats are poorly studied and speculative. Therefore, we surveyed children who owned cats in the Czech Republic to determine awareness and compare the attitudes to abandon their cats (with no intention of letting them back in ever again), which can be reflected later in children's lives. Complete questionnaire responses were received from 2,923 pupils, including 976 cat owners. In children who could become adult owners of cats later in their lives, the origin of pet cats was significantly identified as an important internal factor, which may energize or direct the intentions to release outdoors or abandon unwanted and previously adopted stray cats. Since approximately 71% of respondents kept other pets, it is recommended to further study if the owner who is motivated to release an unwanted cat outdoors may also abandon other unwanted pet animals and the role of household practices and family norms regarding pet ownership. The presented findings should be of concern to wildlife managers, conservationists, teachers, decision-makers and other stakeholders to raise public awareness and political leverage to minimize the deliberate release of pet cats by their owners.
ObjectivesThe aims of the study were to describe a technique for feline ala vestibuloplasty and report long-term postoperative outcomes in 27 brachycephalic (BC) cats.MethodsThe study was a retrospective, questionnaire-based study of owned, clinically affected BC cats (n = 27). Owners completed a single, two-part questionnaire regarding presence or absence, frequency or severity of clinical signs before and >6 months after ala vestibuloplasty. Questions regarding respiratory and gastrointestinal signs, sleep and activity-related behaviors, and ocular, aural and dental health before and after surgery comprised the questionnaire. Response options were scored and individual scores summed to give a total clinical severity score for each cat (range; 0-129). Relationships between clinical variables and outcome were evaluated by regression analysis. Thirteen cats in the cohort were also enrolled in a previous questionnaire-based study reporting real-time preoperative clinical signs. Owner responses regarding preoperative clinical signs gathered at that time and in the present study were compared to assess for recall bias.ResultsTwenty-five/27 (92.5%) cats sustained long-term clinical improvement a mean of 1190 days (range; 354-1802 days) following ala vestibuloplasty. Median clinical severity score improved from 48 preoperative to 17 postoperative (p<0.0001). Owners reported reduced frequencies of sneezing (p<0.0001), coughing (p=0.001), nasal discharge (p=0.0002), snoring (p<0.0001), open-mouth breathing (p=0.001), dyspnea (p=0.0001), difficulty eating (p=0.04), messy eating (p=0.01), dyspnea while eating (p=0.003), regurgitation (p=0.03), vomiting (p=0.03) and dyspnea during activity (p=0.007). Owners also reported increased frequency (p=0.0002) and duration (p=0.0004) of activity. Owners of cats enrolled in both studies recalled their cats' preoperative clinical signs as slightly more severe than originally reported.Conclusions and relevanceAla vestibuloplasty yields long-term clinical improvements in cats' respiratory, gastrointestinal, sleep, activity, aural and ocular signs. Ala vestibuloplasty should be considered for effective treatment of the described clinical signs of feline brachycephalic syndrome.
To report the proportion, pathogenic bacterial isolates (PBIs), and colonization rate of open, appendicular fractures in dogs and cats. To evaluate whether the time to antibiotic administration and to definitive surgical debridement was associated with colonization rate, number of PBIs, complication rate, or complication severity. The electronic medical records of patients transferred to a veterinary referral center's surgery department between September 2019 and August 2024 were reviewed. Data were collected for all dogs and cats transferred with fractures. All cases with open fractures were included for bacterial isolate and antibiotic susceptibility reporting and statistical analysis. 466 dogs and cats were transferred for fracture management. Open fractures occurred in 44 of 357 dogs (12%) and 11 of 70 cats (16%) with appendicular fractures. Thirty-two dogs and 6 cats were included for statistical analysis and had culture results reported. Twenty-one fractures grew 42 PBIs from 15 genera. The most frequently cultured isolates included 22 Enterobacterales and 9 Enterococcus sp. There was an increased frequency of gram-negative aerobes compared to human medicine. There was a 47% complication rate including 3 minor, 13 major, and 1 catastrophic complication. Open fractures in dogs and cats appeared to be colonized with a higher proportion of gram-negative aerobes than human patients. Empiric antibiotic therapy for open fractures in dogs and cats should cover gram-positive and gram-negative aerobes. Monotherapy with penicillins or cephalosporins may not provide sufficient antibiotic coverage due to frequent resistance.
Presence of domestic species can cause multiple impacts on natural ecosystems, especially when wild close relatives are also present. The European Wildcat is an excellent example, facing major conservation threats due to the presence of domestic cats in natural environments. Their interactions can result in varying levels of hybridization, disease transmission, and ecological competition across different regions. Here, we studied spatiotemporal overlap of both species using over 300 camera traps located in more than 30 plots across Catalonia (NE Spain). Occupancy and detectability of the wildcat were not significantly influenced by the relative abundance of domestic cats. However, we observed a high spatial segregation between both species, which could help to explain the relatively low hybridization rate in this area. Daily activity patterns of the 2 cat species showed higher overlap during the mating period than during the non-mating period. Domestic cat activity patterns shifted in those areas with presence of wildcats only during the non-mating period, while the presence of domestic cats had no effect on wildcat activity. Thus, wildcat estrus could influence the activity times of domestic cats, whose active hours show increased overlap with those of wildcats during the mating period. Wildcat conservation measures could focus on enhancing spatial segregation in those regions where hybridization is more persistent, reducing domestic cat incursions in natural areas, while monitoring wildcat distribution and range expansion into areas with a high risk of encounters with domestic cats. La presencia de especies domésticas puede causar múltiples impactos en los ecosistemas naturales, especialmente cuando especies salvajes cercanas están también presentes. El gato montés europeo es un excelente ejemplo, ya que enfrenta amenazas importantes para su conservación debido a la presencia de gatos domésticos en entornos naturales. Su interacción puede resultar en distintos niveles de hibridación, transmisión de enfermedades y competencia ecológica en las diferentes regiones. En este estudio, analizamos el solapamiento espaciotemporal de ambas especies utilizando más de 300 cámaras trampa distribuidas en más de 30 parcelas en toda Cataluña (noreste de España). Ni la ocupación ni la detectabilidad del gato montés se vieron significativamente influenciadas por la abundancia relativa de gatos domésticos. Sin embargo, se observó una elevada segregación espacial entre ambas especies, lo que podría ayudar a explicar la tasa relativamente baja de hibridación en esta área. Los patrones de actividad diaria de las dos especies de gatos mostraron un mayor solapamiento durante el periodo de apareamiento que durante el resto del año. Los patrones de actividad de los gatos domésticos cambiaron en aquellas áreas con presencia de gato montés solamente durante el período no reproductivo, mientras que la presencia de gatos domésticos no tuvo ningún efecto sobre la actividad de los gatos monteses. Por tanto, el celo del gato montés parece influir en los períodos de actividad de los gatos domésticos, cuyas horas de actividad muestran un mayor solapamiento con las de los gatos monteses durante el período de apareamiento. Las medidas de conservación del gato montés podrían centrarse en fomentar la segregación espacial en aquellas regiones donde la hibridación es más persistente, reduciendo las incursiones de gatos domésticos en áreas naturales, al tiempo que se monitorea la distribución del gato montés y su expansión hacia zonas con alto riesgo de encuentros con gatos domésticos.
This study aimed to determine the effects of passive cigarette smoke exposure on ovarian function in cats. The study material consisted of 40 female tabby cats. The cats were divided into two groups: a control group (Group 1, n = 20), not exposed to cigarette smoke, and a smoking group (Group 2, n = 20), exposed to environmental cigarette smoke. Estrogen levels and right intraovarian artery peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), resistive index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), and mean flow velocity (A) were measured in all cats during estrus. Ovariohysterectomy was performed on all cats, and the number of follicles in their ovaries was counted. Preoperative cotinine and Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels were also measured. Cotinine levels were found to be significantly higher in the smoking group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). In contrast, AMH and estrogen levels were found to be significantly lower in the smoking group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Doppler parameters PI and RI were higher in the smoking group, while PSV, EDV, and A were lower (P < 0.001). Follicle counts were significantly lower in the smoking group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). A significant positive correlation was found between cotinine and PI and RI, and a significant negative correlation was found between cotinine and AMH, estrogen, PSV, EDV, A, and all follicle types (P < 0.01). In conclusion, exposure to cigarette smoke in cats can negatively impact ovarian function and ovarian reserve by causing a decrease in intraovarian blood flow, AMH levels, and ovarian follicle reserve.
Influenza A virus (IAV) is a zoonotic pathogen with pandemic potential that infects a wide range of species, including companion animals. Although surveillance efforts have primarily focused on North America, Europe and Asia, data from South America remain scarce. This study evaluated the molecular and serological evidence of IAV circulation in dogs and cats from shelters and multi-pet households in central Chile. Between June and November 2020, oropharyngeal swabs and serum samples were collected from dogs and cats in shelters and multi-pet households in central Chile. Samples were analysed by RT-qPCR, NP-ELISA and hemagglutination inhibition assay. IAV was detected by RT-qPCR in 3.2% (11/342) of dogs (95% CI: 1.3%-5.1%) and 5.8% (4/69) of cats (95% CI: 0.3%-11.3%). Serological analysis revealed IAV seropositivity in 55.5% (96/173) of dogs (95% CI: 48.1%-62.9%) and 50.0% (10/20) of cats (95% CI: 28.1%-71.9%). Additionally, pdmH1N1 antibodies were detected in 26 animals (25.7%; 95% CI: 17.2%-34.2%) out of 101 NP-ELISA-positive serum samples, with higher median titres for cats (median = 160) compared to dogs (median = 20). Low-level antibody titres against Canine/H3N2 (range = 10-20) were identified in three dogs (3.0%; 95% CI: 0.0%-6.3%), whereas no antibodies were detected against Canine/H3N8 or Avian/H3N6. No significant associations were observed between seropositivity and animal age, sex, origin or area. This study presents the first report of IAV detection in cats in South America and highlights a high level of IAV exposure among companion animals in central Chile. These findings underscore the importance of including pets in IAV surveillance efforts under a One Health approach and highlight the need for expanded monitoring and genetic characterization of circulating strains to assess zoonotic risk.
Early identification of critically ill dogs and cats at high-risk of mortality is essential for timely intervention and improved clinical outcomes in veterinary emergency and critical-care practice. Several prognostic indicators, including the quick sequential organ failure assessment (qSOFA), blood lactate concentration, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), have been proposed for risk-stratification; however, comparative evidence in mixed populations of critically ill small animals remains limited. This study aimed to compare the prognostic performance of qSOFA, lactate, SIRS, and NLR for predicting mortality in critically ill dogs and cats admitted to a critical-care unit (CCU). A prospective cohort study was conducted on 76 client-owned critically ill animals, including 39 dogs and 37 cats, admitted to the CCU of the Small Animal Hospital, Chiang Mai University, Thailand. Admission qSOFA scores, blood lactate concentrations, SIRS criteria, and NLR values were recorded. Survival status at 21 days post-admission was used as the primary outcome measure. Prognostic performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity at clinically relevant cut-offs. The overall 21-day survival rate was 47.4%, with survival rates of 51.3% in dogs and 43.2% in cats. qSOFA demonstrated the best prognostic performance for mortality prediction, with an AUC of 0.72 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.61-0.82). Animals with qSOFA scores ≥ 2 showed significantly higher mortality risk. The combined qSOFA+lactate model produced a slightly higher AUC of 0.75 (95% CI: 0.62-0.88), although the improvement was not statistically significant. Lactate thresholds showed high sensitivity but poor specificity, particularly at lower cut-offs. SIRS and NLR exhibited limited discriminative ability and poor overall predictive performance. Among evaluated triage rules, qSOFA ≥ 2 provided the most balanced sensitivity and specificity for identifying non-survivors. qSOFA was the most reliable and clinically practical prognostic indicator among the evaluated parameters in critically ill dogs and cats. Lactate may serve as an adjunctive escalation marker for closer monitoring, whereas SIRS and NLR showed limited prognostic utility. These findings support the integration of qSOFA into evidence-based triage and risk-stratification protocols in veterinary critical-care.
Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS) is characterized by persistent oral inflammation, leading to severe pain, hyporexia, weight loss, and reduced well-being. Affected cats exhibit altered levels of inflammatory mediators; however, most diagnostic procedures require administration of anesthesia, highlighting the need for alternative monitoring approaches. This prospective exploratory pilot study aimed to compare two simple and rapid saliva collection methods-pipetting and absorbent paper points-used for assessing prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in cats. Saliva samples were obtained from 86 cats that were initially evaluated and classified into three groups: FCGS (n=22), other oral inflammatory conditions (OOIC) (n=27), and controls without oral inflammation (n=37); 25 of the control animals were subsequently excluded from the analysis. Compared with pipetting, absorbent paper points were better tolerated by cats with oral inflammation. In the samples collected by pipetting, the mean IL-6 concentration was higher in the FCGS group (473.10 pg/mL) than in the control group (12.78 pg/mL). A similar pattern was observed in samples collected using absorbent paper points; IL-6 levels were highest in the FCGS group (170.90 pg/mL), followed by the OOIC (6.05 pg/mL) and control (1.50 pg/mL) groups. PGE2 levels were also highest in the FCGS group (647.52 pg/mL), followed by the control group (182.13 pg/mL) and the OOIC group (111.40 pg/mL). These findings should be interpreted in light of the pilot design, sample exclusions, and absence of a diagnostic reference standard. Nonetheless, salivary assessment appears to be a feasible and promising noninvasive approach for monitoring oral inflammation in cats with FCGS. A gengivoestomatite crônica felina (Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis – FCGS) é caracterizada por inflamação oral persistente, resultando em dor intensa, hyporexia, perda de peso e redução do bem-estar. Gatos acometidos apresentam alterações em mediadores inflamatórios; entretanto, a maioria dos procedimentos diagnósticos requer anestesia, o que evidencia a necessidade de abordagens alternativas para monitoramento da doença. Este estudo prospectivo, piloto e exploratório teve como objetivo comparar dois métodos simples e rápidos de coleta de saliva — pipetagem e pontas de papel absorventes — para a avaliação dos níveis de prostaglandina E2 (PGE2) e interleucina-6 (IL-6) em gatos. Amostras de saliva foram obtidas de 86 gatos inicialmente avaliados e classificadas em três grupos: FCGS (n=22), outras condições inflamatórias orais (Other Oral Inflammatory Conditions – OOIC; n=27) e controles sem inflamação oral (n=37), dos quais 25 animais controle foram posteriormente excluídos da análise. As pontas de papel absorventes foram melhor toleradas por gatos com inflamação oral. Nas amostras coletadas por pipetagem, os níveis de IL-6 foram mais elevados no grupo FCGS (média de 473,10 pg/mL) em comparação aos controles (12,78 pg/mL). Padrão semelhante foi observado nas amostras coletadas com pontas de papel absorventes, com maiores níveis de IL-6 no grupo FCGS (170,90 pg/mL), seguido por OOIC (6,05 pg/mL) e controles (1,50 pg/mL). Os níveis de PGE2 também foram mais elevados no grupo FCGS (647,52 pg/mL), seguidos pelos controles (182,13 pg/mL) e pelo grupo OOIC (111,40 pg/mL). Esses achados devem ser interpretados à luz do delineamento piloto do estudo, das exclusões amostrais e da ausência de um padrão diagnóstico de referência aplicado de forma uniforme. Ainda assim, a avaliação salivar demonstra ser uma abordagem não invasiva, viável e promissora para o monitoramento da inflamação oral em gatos com FCGS.
Oral protozoa such as Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax have been implicated in periodontal disease, yet their pathogenic roles in host remain controversial, and their zoonotic potential between humans and companion animals is poorly understood. This study investigated the correlation between periodontal diseases and the prevalence of these oral protozoa in humans, dogs, and cats, as well as their zoonotic potential. Oral swabs were collected from 93 humans, 298 dogs, and 325 cats. Species identification and E. gingivalis subtyping were performed using nested PCR and sequencing, followed by phylogenetic analysis. Associations between infection status and demographic or oral health variables were analyzed using chi-square tests and logistic regression. E. gingivalis was highly prevalent across species (>90%), with mixed ST1/ST2 infections predominating. T. tenax prevalence differed significantly among hosts, ranging from 4.30% in human, to 16.62% in cats and 25.17% in dogs. Phylogenetic analysis clustered T. tenax and E. gingivalis sequences irrespective of host species. In dogs, T. tenax infection was significantly associated with age (OR = 4.77 in elderly) and periodontal disease (OR = 4.10). Mixed infections of E. gingivalis and T. tenax were detected in 4.30% of humans, 23.15% of dogs, and 16% of cats. The high prevalence and genetic relatedness of these protozoa suggest cross-species transmission and zoonotic potential. E. gingivalis likely acts as a commensal, whereas T. tenax is linked to age and periodontal disease. These findings highlight the need for integrated oral health surveillance under a One Health framework.
Feline leishmaniosis (FeL) caused by Leishmania infantum is increasingly recognized in endemic areas, but factors influencing susceptibility in cats remain incompletely understood. Because blood group antigens may modulate host-pathogen interactions, this study evaluated whether feline AB blood system phenotypes are associated with L. infantum seropositivity and/or molecular positivity in cats from Italy. Exploratory analyses further assessed whether blood phenotype was associated with the magnitude of indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) antibody titres or with real-time PCR (qPCR) parasite load. In this retrospective cross-sectional study, cats were classified as L. infantum-positive when they had an IFAT titre ≥1:80 and/or a positive qPCR on blood or lymph node aspirates. Feline AB blood typing was performed by tube agglutination, with type B and AB samples confirmed by immunochromatographic testing and back typing. A total of 706 cats were included. Overall, 67/706 cats (9.5%) were classified as L. infantum-positive. Blood phenotype distribution was 83.1% type A, 10.1% type B, and 6.8% type AB. L. infantum positivity was detected in all three phenotypes, and no evidence of association was found between blood phenotype and L. infantum positivity, IFAT seropositivity, qPCR positivity, IFAT titre, or qPCR parasite load. After adjustment for region, blood phenotype remained not significantly associated with L. infantum positivity. These findings suggest that feline AB blood system phenotypes were not associated with L. infantum infection in this feline cohort. Future studies should investigate whether blood phenotype may influence other aspects of FeL, such as clinical expression or disease outcome.
The popularity of domestic cats (Felis catus) as companion animals is undisputed. However, the human-feline proximity poses potential health risks due to zoonotic disease transmission as well as physical injuries from bites and scratches. It is alarming to note that epidemiological data supports the prevalence and colonisation of Staphylococcus spp., including methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the oral cavity of cats. Considering the problem of antibiotic resistance globally, this review collates recent findings on the role of cats as reservoirs of antibiotic resistant pathogenic Staphylococcus spp. and examines the clinical implications of staphylococcal infections in cats. It provides an in-depth study into the link between pathogenesis and antibiotic resistance. In the context of "one health" the pathogenesis mechanisms enabling persistence and virulence such as colonisation, invasion, toxin and enzyme production, and immune evasion are also discussed. A mechanistic overview of promotion of antibiotic resistance in bacteria is provided, focusing on genetic adaptations such as target modification, efflux pumps, and gene acquisition. Patterns of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among cat-derived isolates are critically assessed, outlining emerging trends and their implications for therapeutic strategies. Zoonotic concerns, vis-a-vis the impact of resistant Staphylococcus spp. on human health are addressed. The threats posed by rising antibiotic resistance, such as compromised treatment outcomes and the heightened risk of transmission across species are reviewed and strategies for mitigation, including preventive methods, ongoing surveillance, and the adoption of alternative non-antibiotic measures such as probiotics, bacteriophage therapy, and antimicrobial peptides, are suggested herein.
Describe the clinical features, disease progression, and outcomes of presumed primary lens instability (PLI) in cats, and to assess its association with glaucoma. Thirty-four cats (68 eyes). Medical records were reviewed for signalment, clinical history, ophthalmic findings, and treatment. Eyes were classified as anterior lens luxation (ALL) or subluxated lens (SLL). Clinical monitoring included intraocular pressure (IOP), menace response, absence/presence of blepharospasm, and complications. Surgical eyes underwent intracapsular lens extraction or phacoemulsification, with or without vitrectomy. Cats were 1-13 years old (median 3 years) and predominantly male (82%). At presentation, 68% of eyes had ALL and 32% of eyes had SLL. Blepharospasm was observed in 25% of eyes, mostly in ALL. IOP was elevated (> 25 mmHg) in 38% of eyes overall, comprised of 62% SLL eyes (33 ± 5.7 mmHg) and 25% ALL eyes (54.8 ± 24.1 mmHg). Of SLL eyes followed ≥ 90 days, 73% progressed to ALL within a median of 15 days (5-174 days). Forty-four eyes underwent surgery and, of 42 with follow-up (median 284 days), 95% achieved comfort and 85% retained vision; however, 70% developed postoperative glaucoma within 68 ± 51 days that was still present in 35% of eyes at last recheck. Retinal complications occurred in 14% of operated eyes. Nonsurgical eyes also showed a high risk for IOP elevation. Presumed PLI presents bilaterally in generally young cats, often with limited signs of ocular discomfort, but with a high risk of concurrent or delayed glaucoma. Lens extraction restores comfort and can preserve vision but does not prevent future IOP elevation.
Gastrointestinal foreign body obstruction is a frequently diagnosed ailment in small animal medicine and postoperative ileus can be a challenging sequela to manage. Nasogastric feeding tubes can be utilized after surgery for both quantification of gastric residual volumes to identify ileus as well as nutritional management in anorexic patients. This single-institution retrospective study assesses the association of gastric residual volumes measured via nasogastric feeding tubes with gastrointestinal signs and complications in dogs and cats undergoing foreign body surgery, with and without temporary nasogastric tube placement for postoperative management. In this retrospective study, 469 dogs and cats that had foreign body surgery within a 3-year period were included. These were arranged into two groups for analysis, 210 patients that had a nasogastric tubes placed and 259 that did not. Signalment, presenting clinical signs, and surgical procedure(s) performed were similar between groups, however, nasogastric tube placement was more likely for patients that underwent enterectomy (85.2%, p < 0.001). Total average gastric residual volume in the first 12 h after surgery was 2.0 mL/kg (range 0.0-38.9 mL/kg) and was 5.4 mL/kg (range 0.0-64.1 mL/kg) for the first 24 h. Frequency of upper gastrointestinal signs associated with postoperative ileus (vomiting and regurgitation) did not statistically differ between groups (14.4% vs. 14.7%, p = 0.118), however, with statistical analysis controlled for drug administration, the odds of vomiting and regurgitation were reduced approximately 50-60% for patients having nasogastric tubes placed and aspirated consistently (every 4-6 h) compared to those without. A gastric residual volume cut of >12 mL/kg over the first 24-h period after gastrointestinal foreign body surgery was most significantly associated with increased risk of vomiting and regurgitation (p = 0.058). Nasogastric tube placement was associated with substantially longer hospital stays after surgery (p < 0.001). Cats were less likely to have a feeding tube placed compared to dogs (35.5% vs. 47.1%) and were significantly less likely to regurgitate than dogs (1.1% vs. 17.6%, p = 0.001) despite some having higher gastric residual volumes. Additionally, usage of methadone in the perioperative period was associated with lower frequency of vomiting and regurgitation (p = 0.024). There was a low rate of complications associated with nasogastric tube placement noted in this study (2.9%).
Meibomian glands are responsible for the production and secretion of lipids into the precorneal tear film, which limits its evaporation. This study aimed to evaluate the percentage of Meibomian gland loss rate (MGLR) in the upper eyelid of cats of different ages assessed by infrared meibography. Additionally, possible correlations between MGLR and age, body weight and tear tests were assessed. Three groups were formed according to age: from 6 months to 2 years (Group A, n = 14), from 2 to 3 years (Group B, n = 15), and from 3 to 6 years (Group C, n = 13). Schirmer tear test (STT-1), tear film break-up time (TFBT) and MGLR were performed in 79 eyes of 42 cats (21 males and 21 females). STT-1 was higher in Group C, with statistical significance only when compared with Group B (p = 0.02). TFBT did not differ significantly among groups (p = 0.90). MGLR did not differ between males and females (p = 0.99). MGLR was 25.08% ± 4.16% in Group A, 28.27% ± 4.45% in Group B and 27.72% ± 3.80% in Group C (p = 0.10), and did not correlate with any of the evaluated parameters. This study demonstrated that MGLR is not influenced by sex and did not differ between young and adult cats. Additionally, this parameter did not correlate with age, body weight or tear parameters.
To report the clinical outcomes of Rose Bengal Photodynamic Antimicrobial Therapy (RB-PDAT) as adjunctive therapy for progressive infectious keratitis (IK) in companion animals. A retrospective descriptive review was performed on 22 eyes (14 dogs, 8 cats from private owners) treated with RB-PDAT after failure of initial medical therapy between December 2024 and September 2025. A freshly prepared 0.1% Rose Bengal solution was applied using iontophoresis, followed by green-laser irradiation for two cycles of 2 min (520-525 nm; 10.8 J/cm2). The frequency of topical antibiotic treatment was tapered following RB-PDAT. Examinations were conducted until complete corneal epithelialization was confirmed. Success was defined as infection signs resolution (ulceration, stromal infiltration) without surgical intervention. All eyes achieved full epithelialization within 30 days (Dogs: median healing time 9 days-Cats: mean healing time 14 days). Sixteen cases yielded positive cultures, identifying 30 organisms, including multidrug-resistant isolates. Clinical improvement was documented in all patients. No significant adverse effects occurred. None of the eyes required additional surgery. RB-PDAT appears to be safe, well-tolerated, and associated with rapid epithelial closure in refractory IK. The treatment may reduce reliance on aggressive antibiotic protocols and lower the likelihood of surgical intervention. Larger prospective studies are needed to further define indications, safety, and comparative efficacy of RB-PDAT in veterinary patients.
Histiocytic sarcomas (HSs) are uncommon malignant neoplasms in cats, typically affecting older animals and not previously associated with feline leukemia virus (FeLV). Here, we describe 2 cases of disseminated HS in young FeLV-positive domestic shorthair cats that clinically and grossly mimicked lymphoma. Case 1, a 1-y-old female cat, was presented with hemiplegia and dysuria and was euthanized because of the clinical suspicion of spinal lymphoma. Case 2, a 4-y-old male cat, had hyporexia, ocular abnormalities, and bilateral renal enlargement and was euthanized because of the clinical suspicion of renal and ocular lymphoma. Both cases tested positive for feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection with a SNAP test. At autopsy, case 1 had a white, irregular, intradural spinal cord mass at the C6-C7 segment, and case 2 had coalescing, unencapsulated, white nodules that effaced both renal cortices, along with uveal thickening in the left eye with hyphema. Both cases had highly pleomorphic neoplastic round-cell proliferation in neoplastic masses, with strong cytoplasmic labeling for vimentin and IBA1 on immunohistochemistry and no CD20 or CD3 labeling, confirming disseminated HS. The neoplastic cells also had strong cytoplasmic immunolabeling for FeLV, suggesting a possible oncogenic role of FeLV in feline HSs.
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline leukemia virus (FeLV), domestic cat hepadnavirus (DCHBV), felis catus gammaherpesvirus 1 (FcaGHV1), and severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) are significant blood-associated pathogens impacting feline health. Because these viruses often co-circulate, rapid and simultaneous detection is essential for effective diagnosis and surveillance. A multiplex reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay was developed for simultaneous detection of viral and proviral nucleic acids associated with feline blood-borne viruses. Initial analytical evaluation using spike and non-spike controls established limits of detection ranging from 1.6 copies/µl (FeLV) to 900 copies/µl (FcaGHV1 and SFTSV). No cross-reactivity with other common feline viruses was observed during analytical specificity testing. When evaluated relative to corresponding singleplex RT-PCR assays (n = 126), the assay demonstrated 100% negative percent agreement and 91.9% positive percent agreement relative to corresponding singleplex RT-PCR assays, with diagnostic agreement (κ = 0.878). Following validation, the multiplex assay was applied to 442 clinical samples (401 blood and 41 spleen samples), identifying single detections in 17.2%, and codetections in 4.3% of cases. FeLV and FIV were most prevalent, while no SFTSV was detected; furthermore, FcaGHV1-positive samples underwent additional genetic characterization. Retroviral presence significantly correlated with clinically ill, male cats older than three years. Overall, the assay demonstrated reliable multiplex detection and may serve as a useful screening tool for feline viral surveillance and clinical evaluation, although negative results should be interpreted cautiously for low-copy targets.