Serum Cytokine Profiling in Cats with Acute Idiopathic Cystitis.

BACKGROUND: Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) is a common lower urinary tract disorder of domestic cats that resembles interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS) in humans. Diagnosis of FIC is based on clinical signs and exclusion of other disorders because of a lack of specific pathologic findings or other objective biomarkers. Cytokines are potential noninvasive biomarkers to define the presence, severity, and progression of disease, and response to treatment. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this pilot study was to determine concentrations of selected cytokines in serum from healthy cats and cats with acute FIC. ANIMALS: Serum samples from 13 healthy cats and from 12 cats with nonobstructive acute FIC were utilized. METHODS: Multiplex analysis of 19 cytokines (CCL2, CCL5, CXCL1, CXCL12, CXCL8, Flt3L, GM-CSF, IFN-γ, IL-12 (p40), IL-13, IL-18, IL-1ß, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, PDGF-BB, SCF, sFas, and TNF-α) was performed with a commercially available feline-specific multiplex bead-based assay. RESULTS: Mean serum concentrations of IL-12 (p40; P < 0.0001), CXCL12 (P = 0.002), IL-18 (P = 0.032), and Flt3L (P = 0.0024) were significantly increased in FIC cats compared to healthy cats. GM-CSF, IL-1b, IL-2, and PDGF-BB were undetectable or detected in an insufficient number of cats to allow meaningful comparisons. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: We have identified increased serum concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines CXCL12, IL-12, IL-18, and Flt3L in FIC-affected cats. These findings suggest potential candidates for noninvasive biomarkers for diagnosis, staging, and therapeutic outcome monitoring of affected cats and provide additional insight into the etiopathogenesis of FIC.

Quantification of Urine Elimination Behaviors in Cats with a Video Recording System.

BACKGROUND: Urinary disorders in cats often require subjective caregiver quantification of clinical signs to establish a diagnosis and monitor therapeutic outcomes. OBJECTIVE: To investigate use of a video recording system (VRS) to better assess and quantify urination behaviors in cats. ANIMALS: Eleven healthy cats and 8 cats with disorders potentially associated with abnormal urination patterns. METHODS: Prospective study design. Litter box urination behaviors were quantified with a VRS for 14 days and compared to daily caregiver observations. Video recordings were analyzed by a behavior analysis software program. RESULTS: The mean number of urinations per day detected by VRS (2.5 ± 0.7) was significantly higher compared with caregiver observations (0.6 ± 0.6; P < .0001). Five cats were never observed in the litter box by their caregivers. The mean number of urinations per day detected by VRS was significantly higher for abnormal cats (2.9 ± 0.7) compared with healthy cats (2.1 ± 0.7; P = .02); there were no apparent differences in frequency between these groups reported by caregivers (0.7 ± 1.0 and 0.5 ± 1.0, respectively). There were no differences in mean urination time between healthy and abnormal cats as determined by VRS or caregivers. Mean cover-up time determined by VRS was significantly longer in healthy cats (22.7 ± 12.9 seconds/urination) compared with abnormal cats (8.7 ± 12.9 seconds/urination; P = .03); differences in cover-up time were not detected by caregivers. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Caregivers commonly underestimate urination frequency in cats when compared to video-based observations. Video recording appears to facilitate objective assessment of urination behaviors and could be of value in future clinical studies of urinary disorders in cats.

Safety of Intraperitoneal Injection of Adipose Tissue-Derived Autologous Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Cats.

BACKGROUND: Chronic inflammatory diseases are common in cats and mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are a promising therapeutic approach for management of these disorders. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety of intraperitoneal injection of MSC in cats. HYPOTHESIS: Intrapertioneal injection of autologous MSC in cats is safe. ANIMALS: Ten healthy adult purpose-bred cats. METHODS: Mesenchymal stem cells were isolated from subcutaneous adipose tissue collected during ovariohysterectomy and characterized for expression of CD90, CD105 and CD44 and trilineage differentiation. Three weeks postoperatively a complete blood count, serum chemistry profile, urinalysis, and abdominal ultrasound were performed. Five cats then received 1 × 10(6) of autologous MSC/kg of body weight intraperitoneally with ultrasound guidance; 5 additional cats were sham injected. Cats were monitored for 6 weeks with daily physical examinations and weekly clinicopathological evaluations. Abdominal ultrasonography was repeated at weeks 1 and 5 after injection. RESULTS: Serious adverse effects were not observed in any MSC-injected cat. Two animals developed transient lethargy and decreased activity. Jejunal lymph node size was increased in MSC-injected cats compared to controls at weeks 1 (1.38 ± 0.25 versus 0.88 ± 0.25 cm(2); P = .036) and 5 (1.75 ± 0.82 versus 0.79 ± 0.12 cm(2); P = .047). A hyperechoic renal segmental cortical lesion was observed in 1 MSC-injected cat. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Intraperitoneal MSC injection was well tolerated with only mild, self-limiting adverse effects being observed in 2 cats. This route provides a safe means of administration for cell-based treatment in cats.

Ureteropyeloscopic anatomy of the renal pelvis of the horse.

REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY: Although the equine renal pelvis and terminal recesses have been described post mortem, little information exists about the endoscopic appearance of these structures in the living horse for guiding ureteropyeloscopy. OBJECTIVES: To further document the anatomy of the upper urinary collecting system, specifically the renal pelvis and terminal recesses, of the horse. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive study of cadaver material. METHODS: Kidneys were harvested from 10 horses. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed after distension of the renal pelvis with an elastomer casting material, followed by visual inspection of corrosion casts. Transurethral ureteropyeloscopy of the upper urinary tract was performed in 4 horses, followed by histological and immunohistochemical examination of the renal medulla and pelvis of 3 animals. RESULTS: The equine renal pelvis was confirmed to be a funnel-shaped cavity, flattened dorsoventrally in the craniocaudal direction. Multiple papillary ducts (PDs) from the central part of the kidney open along a ∼3 cm long renal crest that protrudes into the renal pelvis, while PDs from each kidney pole open into 2 long (5-10 cm), narrow terminal recesses that terminate near either end of the renal crest. Openings of the terminal recesses narrow at their junction with the renal pelvis and could be visualised during ureteropyeloscopy in all horses. Minor anatomical variation of the renal crest and terminal recess openings was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Current endoscopic equipment can be used to visualise the renal pelvis but could not be advanced into the terminal recesses. The findings of this study will help guide future diagnostic and therapeutic ureteropyeloscopy.

Pharmacokinetics and relative bioavailability of D-penicillamine in fasted and nonfasted dogs.

BACKGROUND: D-Penicillamine is the most commonly used copper-chelating agent in the treatment of copper-associated hepatitis in dogs. Response to therapy can be variable, and there is a lack of pharmacokinetic information available for dogs. Coadministering the drug with food to alleviate vomiting has been recommended for dogs, which contradicts recommendations for drug administration to humans. HYPOTHESIS: Coadministration of d-penicillamine with food decreases relative bioavailability and maximum plasma drug concentrations (C(max)) in dogs. ANIMALS: Nine purpose-bred dogs with a median body weight of 17.0 kg. METHODS: Dogs received D-penicillamine (12.5 mg/kg PO) fasted and with food in a randomized, crossover design. Blood samples were collected before and 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours after dosing. Total d-penicillamine concentrations were measured using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated for each dog. RESULTS: Two fasted dogs (22%) vomited after receiving d-penicillamine. Mean C(max) ± standard deviation (SD) was 8.7 ± 3.1 µg/mL (fasted) and 1.9 ± 1.6 µg/mL (fed). Mean area under the plasma concentration curve ± SD was 16.9 ± 5.9 µg/mL·h (fasted) and 4.9 ± 3.4 µg/mL·h (fed). There were significant reductions in relative bioavailability and C(max) in fed dogs (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Coadministration of d-penicillamine with food significantly decreases plasma drug concentrations in dogs. Decreased drug exposure could result in decreased copper chelation efficacy, prolonged therapy, additional cost, and greater disease morbidity. Administration of d-penicillamine with food cannot be categorically recommended without additional studies.

Acquired proximal renal tubular dysfunction in 9 Labrador Retrievers with copper-associated hepatitis (2006-2012).

BACKGROUND: Copper-associated hepatitis (CAH) has been well described in Labrador Retrievers. However, the association of CAH with proximal renal tubular dysfunction in this breed has not been characterized. OBJECTIVES: To report clinical features, hepatic and renal histopathologic findings, tissue copper concentrations, and outcome of Labradors with CAH and proximal renal tubular disease. ANIMALS: Nine Labrador Retrievers with renal glucosuria and biopsy-confirmed CAH. METHODS: Clinical, clinicopathologic, and light microscopic findings were retrospectively reviewed. Rhodanine staining or atomic emission spectroscopy was performed on all hepatic samples and available renal tissue (4 dogs) to assess copper concentrations. RESULTS: Eight dogs had a history of polyuria and polydipsia, and all dogs had increased serum bilirubin concentrations. Five dogs had hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis. Three dogs with acidemia had paradoxical alkalinuria. All renal specimens had increased copper concentrations. Renal tubular vacuolization, degeneration, and regeneration were observed on light microscopy. Four dogs died within 10 days of diagnosis. One dog survived 2 months; 4 dogs survived more than 1 year. In long-term survivors, including 2 that did not undergo immediate copper chelation, resolution of renal tubular dysfunction occurred within weeks to months. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Labrador Retrievers with CAH can develop clinical and laboratory evidence of renal tubular dysfunction in association with increased renal copper concentrations. Given the rarity of renal tubular disorders, detection of renal glucosuria and increased ALT activity in a Labrador Retriever is suggestive of CAH. Although renal tubular dysfunction may indicate advanced disease, successful long-term outcome is possible with a variety of therapies.

Nested case-control study of feline calicivirus viruria, oral carriage, and serum neutralizing antibodies in cats with idiopathic cystitis.

BACKGROUND: The epidemiology of feline calicivirus (FCV) infection in cats with idiopathic cystitis (FIC) has not been investigated by contemporary molecular biologic methods. OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of and evaluate risk factors for FCV viruria, oral carriage, and virus neutralizing (VN) antibodies in cats with and without FIC. ANIMALS: Cats with nonobstructive FIC (n = 47), obstructive FIC (n = 22), and FCV upper respiratory tract infection (URI; n = 25), and healthy client-owned (n = 18) and colony-housed (n = 24) cats. METHODS: Oropharyngeal secretions and urine were evaluated with a FCV p30 gene-based real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay. Serum VN antibody titers were determined by a modified microtiter assay. Associations of risk factors with log-transformed antibody titers were determined by multivariable generalized linear regression. RESULTS: FCV viruria was detected in 4 (6%) and 3 (12%) cats with FIC and URI, respectively. In 3 FIC cats, viruria was unassociated with detectable oral virus carriage. Oral FCV carriage was detected in 7 (10%) FIC cats. Median antibody titers were significantly higher in cats with obstructive FIC (1 :256), nonobstructive FIC (1:128), and URI (1:512) compared with healthy client-owned (1:16) and colony-housed (1:4) cats (P < .001). Other than disease, multivariate analysis did not identify any other explanatory variables for increased titers in cats with FIC or URI. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: FCV viruria was detected in cats with FIC and URI, however, its etiologic significance is uncertain. Serologic results suggest increased FCV exposure in FIC cats compared with controls. Further investigations are needed to clarify the potential role of FCV in FIC.

Congenital ureteral ectopia in continent and incontinent-related Entlebucher mountain dogs: 13 cases (2006-2009).

BACKGROUND: Ectopic ureters (EUs) associated with varying combinations of urinary incontinence, hydronephrosis, and urinary tract infection have been identified in related North American Entlebucher Mountain Dogs. OBJECTIVES: To characterize the disease phenotype in affected dogs and evaluate possible modes of inheritance. ANIMALS: Twenty client-owned Entlebucher Mountain Dogs. Nine dogs had clinical signs of urinary tract disease. METHODS: Prospective case series in which 17 dogs were evaluated with excretory urography, ultrasonography, and urethrocystoscopy. Three additional dogs were evaluated by necropsy alone. Clinical and pedigree histories from 165 North American Entlebuchers were compiled for analysis. RESULTS: Eleven female and 2 male dogs were found to have EUs. Six females and 1 male were continent. Bilateral intravesicular ectopic ureters (IVEUs) were identified in 9 dogs, bilateral extravesicular ectopic ureters (EVEUs) in 3 dogs, and 1 dog had IVEU and EVEU. Hydronephrosis was identified in 5 dogs, 3 of which had bilateral IVEUs. Two necropsied dogs had bilateral hydronephrosis with presumed ureterovesical junction obstruction associated with chronic granulation tissue or lymphoplasmacytic inflammation. Twenty-six dogs with EUs were identified in the pedigree. Because of incomplete penetrance, mode of inheritance could not be determined. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Ureteral ectopia is common in North American Entlebucher Mountain Dogs and clinical signs alone could not reliably predict disease phenotype. EVEUs were associated with urinary incontinence and occasionally hydronephrosis. IVEUs were clinically silent or associated with hydronephrosis. Further analyses are necessary to confirm and characterize the hereditary nature of the disorder.

Optimal testing for thyroid hormone concentration after treatment with methimazole in healthy and hyperthyroid cats.

BACKGROUND: Methimazole suppresses thyroid hormone synthesis and is commonly used to treat feline hyperthyroidism. The degree of variation in thyroid hormone concentrations 24 hours after administration of methimazole and optimal time for blood sampling to monitor therapeutic efficacy have not been determined. OBJECTIVE: To assess thyroid hormone concentration variation in serum of normal and hyperthyroid cats after administration of methimazole. ANIMALS: Four healthy cats and 889 retrospectively acquired feline thyroid hormone profiles. METHODS: Crossover and retrospective studies. In the crossover study, healthy cats were treated with increasing doses of oral methimazole until steady state of thyroid suppression was achieved. Thyroid hormones and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were serially and randomly monitored after methimazole. Paired t-tests and a 3-factor analysis of variance were used to determine differences between thyroid hormone concentrations in treated and untreated cats in the crossover study. Thyroid profiles from methimazole-treated hyperthyroid cats were retrieved from the Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health database and reviewed. Linear regression analysis evaluated relationships of dosage (mg/kg), dosing interval (q24h versus q12h), and time after methimazole to all thyroid hormone concentrations. RESULTS: All serum concentrations of thyroid hormones were significantly suppressed and TSH was significantly increased for 24 hours after administration of oral methimazole in healthy cats (P < .005). In hyperthyroid cats, there were no significant relationships between thyroid hormone concentrations and time postpill or dosing interval. CONCLUSIONS: Timing of blood sampling after oral methimazole administration does not appear to be a significant factor when assessing response to methimazole treatment.

Osmolality of Modified Enteral Tube Feeds for Adults in Hospitals Across the Western Cape Province

Objectives: The first aim of this study was to determine the incidence of use; reasons for use; and procedures/recipes followed in modifying enteral tube feeds (ETFs) for adults in state and private hospitals across the Western Cape Province (WCP); South Africa (baseline data). The second aim was to determine the osmolality of the modified ETFs used by these hospitals (osmolality data). Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study. Setting and subjects: The study was conducted in January/February 2007. The baseline data was collected by means of a coded questionnaire sent to all state and private hospitals in the WCP (n = 111); excluding all children's hospitals. The osmolality data was obtained by means of freeze-point depression of the modified ETF recipes obtained from the participating hospitals. Results: A total response rate of 94was obtained. Of the participating hospitals (n = 104); 48were state (n = 50) and 52were private hospitals (n = 54). Sixty-two per cent of hospitals (n = 64) made use of ETFs; with 25modifying their feeds (n = 16). Twelve recipes were obtained for the osmolality testing. Eight recipes (66) were significantly lower (p 0.001); two (16) were significantly higher (p 0.001) and two of the recipes did not differ from the standard enteral product. Eight recipes (66) had a significantly higher average osmolality (p 0.001) than that of body fluid. The concentrated ETF recipe (1.43 kcal/ml) had the highest osmolality (707 mOsm/kg/H20). Conclusions: Modular ETFs had lower average osmolality than those of the semi-modular and the standard enteral products; and of body fluid (300 mOsm/kg/H20)

The profile analysis of attempted-suicide patients referred to Pelonomi Hospital for psychological evaluation and treatment from 1 May 2005 to 30 April 2006

Background. Suicide is an increasing phenomenon worldwide. A suicide occurs every 40 seconds; and there is 1 attempt every 1 to 3 seconds. By 2020; these figures may have doubled. No accurate statistics regarding the occurrence of attempted suicide (or non-fatal suicidal behaviour) in South Africa exist; because there has been no systematic data collection. Aim. The aim of the study was to determine the profile of patients who had attempted suicide and were referred to Pelonomi Hospital; Bloemfontein; for psychologicalevaluation and treatment during the period 1 May 2005 to 30 April 2006. Method. A descriptive; retrospective study was conducted. The study population comprised 258 attempted-suicide patients referred to Pelonomi Hospital for psychological evaluation and treatment. A data form was compiled to transfer the relevant information from patients' clinical files. Results. The majority of patients were female (68.9). The median age was 22 years. The most common method used in suicide attempts was drug overdose (66) - mostly antidepressants (19.7)) and analgesics (8.2). More females than males overdosed on drugs (p=0.0103). The main precipitating factors included problematic relationships (55.4); financial problems (22.9); psychiatric problems (22.1); arguments (19.8); abuse (emotional; sexual; physical - 18.2); low self-esteem/ worthlessness/hopelessness/humiliation (16.7); and recent life changes (13.2). Conclusion. The aim of the study was to determine the profile of patients who had attempted suicide. Possible factors associated with suicide attempts in our sample were identified and summarised in the form of a screening checklist. The value of the checklist is that it can be used as a screening method to identify possible suicide risk in patients

Histiocytic ulcerative colitis in three non-boxer dogs.

Histiocytic ulcerative colitis (HUC) is described in three non-boxer dogs. Clinical signs were typical of large-bowel diarrhea and included soft stool, hematochezia, tenesmus, and an increased frequency of defecation. Diagnosis in each case was made by light microscopic evaluation of endoscopically obtained colonic biopsy specimens. Treatment regimes varied, but included immunosuppressive agents, anti-inflammatory drugs, antimicrobials, and dietary modification. Clinical response was substantial in two patients, while the third patient was euthanized due to treatment failure. The authors' observations indicate that HUC may be encountered in non-boxer dogs.

Prevalence of bovine herpesvirus-4 infection in cats in Central Michigan.

The gammaherpesvirus bovine herpesvirus-4 (BHV-4) has been isolated from a wide variety of animals, including lions and domestic cats. Although BHV-4 antibodies have been detected in normal cats and cats with urinary disorders, the epidemiology and pathogenic role of BHV-4 in cats is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of BHV-4 antibodies and viral nucleic acid in a population of free-roaming cats. Plasma and peripheral blood leukocyte samples were collected from 52 male and 52 female free-roaming cats impounded at a regional animal control facility in Central Michigan. Plasma concentrations of BHV-4 antibodies were measured with an indirect fluorescent antibody test. Peripheral blood leukocyte DNA was isolated, and a 2-stage polymerase chain reaction with heminested primers delineating a conserved portion of the BHV-4 glycoprotein B gene homologue was used to amplify BHV-4-specific DNA sequences. BHV-4 antibodies were detected in 38 (73%) male and 23 (44%) female cats. Seropositive cats were significantly more likely to be male than female (odds ratio = 3.22; P = .007). Cell-associated viremia was detected in 17 (33%) male and 11 (21%) female cats. Of the 61 seropositive cats, 23 (38%) had a detectable viremia; only 5 (12%) seronegative cats had detectable viremia. Seropositive cats were significantly more likely to be viremic than seronegative cats (OR = 4.30: P = .009). Our results suggest that BHV-4 infection may be more widespread in certain cat populations than previously reported. Furthermore, many cats seropositive for BHV-4 antibodies have a concurrent cell-associated viremia.

Effects of methimazole on renal function in cats with hyperthyroidism.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of methimazole on renal function in cats with hyperthyroidism. Twelve cats with naturally occurring hyperthyroidism and 10 clinically normal (i.e., control) cats were included in this study. All cats initially were evaluated with a history, physical examination, complete blood count, serum biochemistry profile, basal serum total thyroxine concentration, complete urinalysis, and urine bacterial culture. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated by a plasma iohexol clearance (PIC) test. After initial evaluation, hyperthyroid cats were treated with methimazole until euthyroidism was achieved. Both groups of cats were then reevaluated by repeating the initial tests four to six weeks later. The mean (+/-standard deviation) pretreatment estimated GFR for the hyperthyroid cats was significantly higher (3.83+/-1.82 ml/kg per min) than that of the control cats (1.83+/-0.56 ml/kg per min). Control of the hyperthyroidism resulted in a significantly decreased mean GFR of 2.02+/-0.81 ml/kg per minute when compared to pretreatment values. In the hyperthyroid group, the mean increases in serum urea nitrogen (SUN) and creatinine concentrations and the mean decrease in the urine specific gravity after treatment were not statistically significant when compared to pretreatment values. Two of the 12 hyperthyroid cats developed abnormally high serum creatinine concentrations following treatment. These results provide evidence that cats with hyperthyroidism have increased GFR compared to normal cats, and that treatment of feline hyperthyroidism with methimazole results in decreased GFR.

Use of pamidronate disodium to reduce cholecalciferol-induced toxicosis in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether pamidronate disodium can reduce cholecalciferol-induced toxicosis in a dose-related manner. ANIMALS: 20 clinically normal, 8- to 12-month-old male Beagles. PROCEDURE: All dogs were given 8 mg of cholecalciferol (CCF)/kg of body weight once orally, then were randomly assigned to 4 groups of 5 dogs each. Dogs were treated with IV administration of 0.9% NaCl solution (SC group), 0.65 mg of pamidronate/kg in 0.9% NaCl solution (LP group), 1.3 mg of pamidronate/kg in 0.9% NaCl solution (MP group), or 2.0 mg of pamidronate/kg in 0.9% NaCl solution (HP group) on days 1 and 4 after administration of CCF. Dogs were observed for 14 days, and serial blood samples were collected for serum biochemical, electrolyte, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 analyses. Urine samples were collected for determination of specific gravity. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was determined by plasma iohexol clearance. Histologic examination of renal tissue was performed. RESULTS: One dog in the SC group was euthanatized 3 days after administration of CCF because of severe clinical signs of toxicosis. Dogs in the HP group had significantly higher mean GFR (day 3), serum potassium concentrations (day 14), and urine specific gravity (days 7 and 14) and significantly lower mean serum creatinine concentrations and total calcium X phosphorus concentration product (days 4 and 7) than dogs in the SC group. Dogs in the HP group had no abnormal findings on histologic examination of renal tissue, dogs in the LP and MP groups had trace to mild mineralization of renal tissue, and dogs in the SC group had moderate mineralization and cellular necrosis of proximal renal tubules. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Pamidronate disodium is a potentially useful drug to reduce CCF-induced toxicosis and other causes of hypercalcemia associated with increased bone resorption in dogs.

Use of pamidronate to reverse vitamin D3-induced toxicosis in dogs.

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether pamidronate disodium can reduce vitamin D3-induced hypercalcemia in dogs and whether combination treatment with calcitonin is more effective than treatment with pamidronate alone. ANIMALS: 20 clinically normal male Beagles. PROCEDURE: All dogs were given 8 mg of cholecalciferol (CCF)/kg of body weight once orally, then were assigned randomly to 4 groups of 5 dogs each. Dogs were given 0.9% NaCl solution IV (group 1), calcitonin SC and 0.9% NaCl solution IV (group 2), pamidronate and 0.9% NaCl solution IV (group 3), or a combination of all 3 agents (group 4). Dogs were observed for 28 days, and serial blood and urine samples were collected for determination of serum biochemical, electrolyte, and 25(OH)D3 values, CBC, and urine mineral excretion. Samples of kidney, stomach, lung, aorta, liver, duodenum, and brain were evaluated by light microscopy and quantitative mineral analysis. RESULTS: Two dogs in group 1 were euthanatized 4 days after CCF administration because of severe clinical signs of disease. Dogs in group 3 lost less weight and had significantly lower serum phosphorus, total and ionized calcium, and urinary zinc concentrations, compared with dogs in group 1. On day 4, serum urea nitrogen concentration was significantly lower in dogs of groups 3 and 4, compared with dogs in group 1. Mild to moderate mineralization of kidneys and stomach were observed in the 2 group-1 dogs euthanatized on day 4. CONCLUSIONS: Pamidronate administration effectively prevents CCF-induced hypercalcemia and mineralization of soft tissues. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Pamidronate is a potentially useful antidote against CCF toxicosis in dogs.

Medical dissolution and prevention of canine struvite urolithiasis. Twenty years of experience.

Two types of canine struvite uroliths have been recognized: infection-induced struvite is the most common type; sterile struvite is uncommonly recognized. Infection-induced struvite is most commonly associated with urease-producing staphylococcal UTI. For dogs that qualify, medical dissolution is an effective method of treatment. Medical dissolution protocols encompass: (1) eradication or control of UTI; (2) use of calculolytic diets; and (3) administration of urease inhibitors to patients with persistent UTI caused by urease-producing microbes.

Canine calcium phosphate uroliths. Etiopathogenesis, diagnosis, and management.

Uroliths composed predominantly of calcium phosphates have been infrequently identified in dogs. Factors incriminated in the etiopathogenesis of calcium phosphate urolithiasis include an alkaline urine pH, hypercalciuria, decreased urine concentrations of crystallization inhibitors, and increased urine concentrations of crystallization promoters. Disorders associated with calcium phosphate urolith formation in dogs include primary hyperparathyroidism, hyperadrenocorticism, and idiopathic hypercalciuria. Medical therapy of patients with recurring calcium phosphate uroliths should be directed at removing or minimizing factors contributing to urine supersaturation with calcium phosphate.

Canine urate urolithiasis. Etiopathogenesis, diagnosis, and management.

Etiopathologic factors predisposing to urate lithogenesis in Dalmatian and non-Dalmatian dogs represent diverse pathologic and/or physiologic processes involving purine nucleotide and ammonia synthesis, biodegradation, and excretion. Predisposing factors for urate urolith formation include hyperuricemia, hyperammonemia, hyperuricosuria, hyperammonuria, aciduria, and genetic predisposition. Medical therapy of dogs forming urate uroliths should be directed at modifying these predisposing factors through dietary modification, administration of allopurinol, and/or surgical correction of portovascular anomalies if present. The precise mechanisms resulting in urate urolith formation in dogs have not been determined.