The Emergence of New Sporothrix brasiliensis Genotypes in Current Epidemic of Sporotrichosis in Southeastern Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Zoonotic sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis has become the main subcutaneous mycosis in Brazil. Minas Gerais (MG) is located in southeast Brazil and since 2015 has experienced an epidemic of zoonotic sporotrichosis. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to reconstruct the epidemiological scenario of sporotrichosis from S. brasiliensis in recent epizooty in the Metropolitan Region of Belo Horizonte (MRBH), MG. METHODS: A total of 95 Sporothrix spp. isolates (Sporothirx brasiliensis n = 74, S. schenckii n = 11 and S. globosa n = 10) were subjected to Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) genotyping and mating-type analysis to determine genetic diversity and population structure. Of these, 46 S. brasiliensis isolates were recovered from animals (cats n = 41 and dogs n = 5) from MRBH. RESULTS: Our study describes the high interspecific differentiation power of AFLP-based genotyping between the main phylogenetic Sporothrix groups. S. brasiliensis presents high genetic variability and pronounced population structure with geographically focused outbreaks in Brazil. The genetic groups include older genotypes from the prolonged epidemic in Southeast (Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo), South (Rio Grande do Sul), Northeast (Pernambuco) and new genotypes from the MRBH. Furthermore, we provide evidence of heterothallism mating strategy in pathogenic Sporothrix species. Genotypes originating in Rio de Janeiro and Pernambuco carry the predominant MAT1-2 idiomorph as opposed to genotypes from Rio Grande do Sul, which have the MAT1-1 idiomorph. We observed an overwhelming occurrence of MAT1-1 among MRBH isolates. CONCLUSION: Our study provides clear evidence of the predominance of a genetic group profile circulating in animals in Minas Gerais, independent of that disseminated from Rio de Janeiro. Our data can help us understand the genetic population processes that drive the evolution of this fungus in Minas Gerais and contribute to future mitigation actions for this ongoing epidemic.

When veterinarians treat plus-sized pets: Insights for veterinary practice.

Background: Obesity of companion animals in Canada is becoming a problem in veterinary practice. Cats and dogs, in particular, are increasingly overweight. However, prevention and treatment present challenges. Challenges in treating pet obesity, such as client nonadherence and animal welfare issues arising from obesity, also affect the well-being of veterinarians - especially given the coincident high rates of burnout and compassion fatigue experienced in the profession. Objective: This study investigated how practicing veterinarians perceive the treatment of overweight companion animals and how treating obese pets affects well-being of veterinarians. Animals and procedure: We recruited veterinarians who routinely treat companion animals in private practice to participate in focus group interviews. We also interviewed veterinarians who could not attend the focus group sessions, yet still wished to contribute. Through thematic data analysis, we generated key themes that illustrated how treating obese pets negatively affects veterinarian well-being. Results: Eighteen companion animal veterinarians contributed to this study. We generated 3 themes from the analysis that illustrate negative effects of treating obese pets on veterinarian well-being: i) negative feelings such as frustration and sadness associated with treating obese pets; ii) owners' lack of comprehension of the effects of obesity on pets, including early euthanasia; and iii) client nonadherence regarding treatment. Conclusion and clinical relevance: This study contributes to the veterinary literature on companion animal obesity by focusing on how treating pet obesity affects veterinarian well-being, especially given high rates of burnout and compassion fatigue in the profession. As pet obesity increases in society, obesity prevention and treatment is becoming central to companion animal veterinary practice. Our findings suggest that veterinarian well-being is negatively affected in connection with companion animal obesity. We recommend relationship-centered communication, increased nutritional expertise, and a focus on wellness in the workplace to improve veterinarian well-being while treating pet obesity.

Quand les vétérinaires traitent des animaux en surpoids : perspectives pour la pratique vétérinaire. Contexte: L'obésité des animaux de compagnie au Canada devient un problème dans la pratique vétérinaire. Les chats et les chiens, en particulier, sont de plus en plus en surpoids. Cependant, la prévention et le traitement présentent des défis. Les défis liés au traitement de l'obésité des animaux de compagnie, tels que la non-observance des traitements par les clients et les problèmes de bien-être animal liés à l'obésité, affectent également le bien-être des vétérinaires ­ en particulier compte tenu des taux élevés d'épuisement professionnel et de fatigue de compassion que connaît la profession. Objectif: Cette étude a examiné comment les vétérinaires en exercice perçoivent le traitement des animaux de compagnie en surpoids et comment le traitement des animaux obèses affecte le bien-être des vétérinaires. Animaux et procédure: Nous avons recruté des vétérinaires qui traitent régulièrement des animaux de compagnie en cabinet privé pour participer à des entretiens de groupe. Nous avons également interrogé des vétérinaires qui n'avaient pas pu assister aux séances de groupe de discussion, mais qui souhaitaient néanmoins contribuer. Grâce à l'analyse thématique des données, nous avons généré des thèmes clés illustrant comment le traitement des animaux obèses affecte négativement le bien-être des vétérinaires. Résultats: Dix-huit vétérinaires d'animaux de compagnie ont contribué à cette étude. Nous avons généré 3 thèmes à partir de l'analyse qui illustrent les effets négatifs du traitement des animaux obèses sur le bien-être du vétérinaire : i) les sentiments négatifs tels que la frustration et la tristesse associés au traitement des animaux obèses; ii) le manque de compréhension des propriétaires des effets de l'obésité sur les animaux de compagnie, y compris l'euthanasie précoce; et iii) la non-observance du traitement par les clients. Conclusion et pertinence clinique: Cette étude contribue à la littérature vétérinaire sur l'obésité des animaux de compagnie en se concentrant sur la façon dont le traitement de l'obésité des animaux de compagnie affecte le bien-être des vétérinaires, en particulier compte tenu des taux élevés d'épuisement professionnel et de fatigue de compassion dans la profession. À mesure que l'obésité des animaux de compagnie augmente dans la société, la prévention et le traitement de l'obésité deviennent essentiels à la pratique vétérinaire des animaux de compagnie. Nos résultats suggèrent que le bien-être des vétérinaires est affecté négativement par l'obésité des animaux de compagnie. Nous recommandons une communication centrée sur les relations, une expertise nutritionnelle accrue et une concentration sur le bien-être au travail pour améliorer le bien-être des vétérinaires tout en traitant l'obésité des animaux de compagnie.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Kidney sparing during surgical treatment of an adrenocortical carcinoma with renal vein invasion in a cat.

A 15-year-old domestic shorthair cat was presented with gastrointestinal signs, polyuria, polydipsia, and weakness. Abdominal bruit ("whooshing" sound from turbulent blood flow) and hypertension (systolic blood pressure: 200 mmHg) were present. A left adrenal gland mass was detected with abdominal ultrasonography; a subsequent CT examination identified a mass and a thrombus in the ipsilateral renal vein. Adrenalectomy and venotomy were completed but nephrectomy was not necessary. Histological diagnosis was an adrenocortical carcinoma. There were no clinical signs at a follow-up examination 30 mo after surgery. Key clinical message: This report describes successful surgical management of feline adrenocortical carcinoma with renal vein invasion without kidney damage. This case suggests that, after correct diagnosis and in well-selected cases, surgery to remove adrenal tumors and thrombi in cats, despite renal vein invasion, can be done with excellent short- and long-term outcomes.

Sauvegarde des reins lors du traitement chirurgical d'un carcinome corticosurrénalien avec invasion des veines rénales chez un chatUn chat domestique à poil court de 15 ans a été présenté avec des signes gastro-intestinaux, une polyurie, une polydipsie et une faiblesse. Des bruits abdominaux (« sifflement ¼ provenant d'un flux sanguin turbulent) et une hypertension (pression artérielle systolique: 200 mmHg) étaient présents. Une masse de la glande surrénale gauche a été détectée à l'échographie abdominale; un examen tomodensitométrique ultérieur a identifié une masse et un thrombus dans la veine rénale ipsilatérale. La surrénalectomie et la veinotomie ont été réalisées mais la néphrectomie n'a pas été nécessaire. Le diagnostic histologique était un carcinome corticosurrénalien. Il n'y avait aucun signe clinique lors d'un examen de suivi 30 mois après l'intervention chirurgicale.Message clinique clé:Ce rapport décrit la prise en charge chirurgicale réussie du carcinome corticosurrénalien félin avec invasion des veines rénales sans lésion rénale. Ce cas suggère qu'après un diagnostic correct et dans des cas bien sélectionnés, une intervention chirurgicale visant à éliminer les tumeurs surrénales et les thrombi chez les chats, malgré l'invasion des veines rénales, peut être réalisée avec d'excellents résultats à court et à long terme.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Ultrasonographic features of a gastric submucosal lipoma in a cat: A case study.

A 7-year-old Korean shorthair cat was admitted to our hospital with chronic constipation. Abdominal ultrasonography incidentally revealed a focal asymmetric gastric mass. The mass was submucosal and hypoechoic without loss of wall layering. Histopathological examination revealed a gastric submucosal lipoma (GSL). Although there have been reports of gastric submucosal fat infiltration in cats, there have been no reports regarding GSL. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the ultrasonographic characteristics of GSL in a cat. Gastric submucosal lipoma should be considered as a differential diagnosis when a focal hypoechoic submucosal mass without loss of wall layering in the stomach is observed on ultrasound images. Key clinical message: This case report describes the ultrasonographic characteristics of GSL in a cat and aims to provide useful information for the diagnosis of lipoma occurring in the feline gastrointestinal tract. The ultrasonographic features and histological results we describe should be helpful in diagnosing submucosal lipoma in cats with similar conditions.

Caractéristiques échographiques d'un lipome sous-muqueux gastrique chez un chat: une étude de casUn chat coréen à poil court âgé de 7 ans a été admis à notre hôpital pour constipation chronique. L'échographie abdominale a révélé de manière fortuite une masse gastrique focale asymétrique. La masse était dans la sousmuqueuse et hypoéchogène sans perte de stratification murale. L'examen histopathologique a révélé un lipome sous-mucosal gastrique (GSL). Bien qu'il y ait eu des rapports d'infiltration de graisse dans la sous-muqueuse gastrique chez le chat, aucun rapport n'a été signalé concernant le GSL. À notre connaissance, il s'agit du premier rapport décrivant les caractéristiques échographiques du GSL chez un chat. Le lipome sous-muqueux gastrique doit être envisagé comme diagnostic différentiel lorsqu'une masse sous-muqueuse hypoéchogène focale sans perte de stratification de la paroi de l'estomac est observée sur les images échographiques.Message clinique clé:Ce rapport de cas décrit les caractéristiques échographiques du GSL chez un chat et vise à fournir des informations utiles pour le diagnostic des lipomes survenant dans le tractus gastro-intestinal félin. Les caractéristiques échographiques et les résultats histologiques que nous décrivons devraient être utiles pour diagnostiquer le lipome sous-muqueux chez les chats présentant des conditions similaires.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Smoke Inhalation in Veterinary Patients: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management.

Smoke contains a mixture of harmful gases, chemicals, and superheated particles. Inhalation of smoke causes generalized hypoxia and airway inflammation due to impaired oxygen transport and utilization, as well as thermal and chemical injury in the airways. Generally, treatment is supportive with oxygen therapy and airway management, including chest physiotherapy, bronchodilators, and nebulization. Immediate oxygen therapy is mandatory for all suspected smoke inhalation patients and should not be delayed pending diagnostic test results or due to "normal" oxygen saturation readings that can be falsely elevated in carbon monoxide intoxication. Smoke inhalation patients with mild clinical signs who respond well to initial stabilization generally have a favorable prognosis. However, patients with severe signs or progression despite initial stabilization may require more advanced or intensive care.

Video-Assisted Ventral Bulla Osteotomy to Remove a Bullet Foreign Body in a Cat.

A 7 yr old castrated male domestic shorthair presented for assessment of a chronic left head tilt, losses of balance, and positional nystagmus. A computed tomographic scan of the head revealed several fragments of a metallic foreign body in the left tympanic cavity. The foreign material was removed under endoscopic assistance through a minimally invasive ventral bulla osteotomy. No complications were noted during the immediate postoperative period. Follow-up 5 mo after surgery revealed complete resolution of the neurological signs with no evidence of recurrence. Foreign bodies associated with middle ear infection have not been previously reported in the cat. They should now be included in the differential diagnosis of vestibular disease. Endoscopic-assisted foreign body removal in the middle ear seems to be a safe and efficient way to retrieve small foreign bodies in bullae in cats.

Successful Treatment of Sino-Orbital Aspergillus udagawae Infection Using Oral Posaconazole in a Cat.

A 10 yr old spayed female ragdoll cat presented with sudden onset of sneezing, nasal discharge, and stertor. There was no improvement in clinical signs despite treatment with antibiotics, feline interferon, and nebulization. A computed tomography (CT) scan revealed findings consistent with chronic rhinitis, and a tissue biopsy obtained by rhinoscopy led to a histopathologic diagnosis of sinonasal aspergillosis. Polymerase chain reaction amplification identified the causative agent as Aspergillus udagawae. Oral itraconazole therapy was initiated. However, the cat's clinical signs progressed to include left exophthalmos, nictitating membrane protrusion, and lacrimation. A second CT scan revealed a soft-tissue attenuating structure extending into the left retrobulbar space, confirming progression to sino-orbital aspergillosis (SOA). The oral medication was changed to posaconazole and continued for 5 mo, resulting in resolution of the clinical signs. The cat has remained asymptomatic over 24 mo since initial diagnosis. This case represents the first successful treatment of feline SOA caused by A udagawae infection with posaconazole. A udagawae is the second most common cause of SOA and is known to be intractable because of its low susceptibility to antifungal agents and poor response to topical clotrimazole. Posaconazole may be a valuable treatment option for SOA caused by A udagawae.

The comparison of pathogenicity among SARS-CoV-2 variants in domestic cats.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been detected or isolated from domestic cats. It is unclear whether cats play an important role in the SARS-CoV-2 transmission cycle. In this study, we examined the susceptibility of cats to SARS-CoV-2, including wild type and variants, by animal experiments. Cats inoculated with wild type, gamma, and delta variants secreted a large amount of SARS-CoV-2 for 1 week after the inoculation from nasal, oropharyngeal, and rectal routes. Only 100 TCID50 of virus could infect cats and replicate well without severe clinical symptoms. In addition, one cat inoculated with wild type showed persistent virus secretion in feces for over 28 days post-inoculation (dpi). The titer of virus-neutralizing (VN) antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 increased from 11 dpi, reaching a peak at 14 dpi. However, the omicron variant could not replicate well in cat tissues and induced a lower titer of VN antibodies. It is concluded that cats were highly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection, but not to the Omicron Variant, which caused the attenuated pathogenicity.

Isolation and genetic characterization of parvoviruses from domestic cats reveals emergence of CPV-2c in India: A first report.

The objective of the present study was to isolate and characterize the VP2 gene of parvoviruses from domestic cats in India. For that, 38 fecal samples were screened by PCR with 36.84% positivity. Sequence analysis of those isolates showed canine parvovirus type-2c (CPV-2c) as the predominant variant, followed by feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) and 2a. Phylogenetic analysis of the CPV-2c sequences revealed clustering with Singaporean, South Korean, Mongolian and Bangladeshi dog 2c sequences. Phylogenetic analysis of the 2a isolate (MZC 2) was found to be clustered with Indian, Thai and Singaporean dog 2a isolates. Similarly, all the four FPV sequences were ancestrally related to Indian dog and cat FPV sequences hinting towards interspecies transmission between dogs and cats. Both synonymous and non-synonymous mutations were evident in CPV-2c, 2a and FPV sequences indicative of active evolution. In cell culture medium, CPV-2 showed cytopathogenic effects at the third passage level. In conclusion, the study provided the first report of CPV-2c in cats from India, which demands for extensive epidemiological surveillance to monitor interspecies spread and to shed more light on viral phylogenomics, their distribution in the country and in the Southeast Asian region and usage of current vaccines.

Clonorchis sinensis infection induces pathological changes in feline bile duct epithelium and alters biliary microbiota composition.

BACKGROUND: Clonorchis sinensis is a zoonotic liver fluke that inhabits the bile ducts of the human liver for prolonged periods, leading to cholangiocarcinoma. Recent research indicates associations between altered biliary microbiota and bile duct disorders. However, the impacts of C. sinensis infection on bile duct epithelium and subsequent effects on biliary microbiota remain unknown. METHODS: Feline bile duct samples were collected from both uninfected and C. sinensis-infected cats. Histopathological examination was performed to assess epithelial changes, fibrosis, mucin and cell proliferation using hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry. Additionally, biliary microbiota composition was analyzed through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare the microbial diversity and relative abundance between infected and uninfected samples. RESULTS: Histopathological analysis of infected feline bile ducts revealed prominent epithelial hyperplasia characterized by increased cell proliferation. Moreover, periductal fibrosis and collagen fibrosis were observed in infected samples compared to uninfected controls. Biliary microbial richness decreased with disease progression compared to uninfected controls. Streptococcus abundance positively correlated with disease severity, dominating communities in cancer samples. Predictive functional analysis suggested that C. sinensis may promote bile duct lesions by increasing microbial genes for carbohydrate metabolism, replication, and repair. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides comprehensive insights into the pathological effects of C. sinensis infection on feline bile duct epithelium and its influence on biliary microbiota composition. These novel findings provide insight into C. sinensis pathogenesis and could inform therapeutic development against human clonorchiasis. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms driving these changes and their implications for host-parasite interactions.

Title: L'infection par Clonorchis sinensis induit des changements pathologiques dans l'épithélium des voies biliaires félines et modifie la composition du microbiote biliaire. Abstract: Contexte : Clonorchis sinensis est une douve zoonotique du foie qui habite les voies biliaires du foie humain pendant des périodes prolongées, conduisant au cholangiocarcinome. Des recherches récentes indiquent des associations entre une altération du microbiote biliaire et des pathologies des voies biliaires. Cependant, les impacts de l'infection par C. sinensis sur l'épithélium des voies biliaires et les effets ultérieurs sur le microbiote biliaire restent inconnus. Méthodes : Des échantillons de voies biliaires félines ont été prélevés sur des chats non infectés et infectés par C. sinensis. Un examen histopathologique a été réalisé pour évaluer les modifications épithéliales, la fibrose, la mucine et la prolifération cellulaire à l'aide de la coloration à l'hématoxyline-éosine et de l'immunohistochimie. De plus, la composition du microbiote biliaire a été analysée par séquençage du gène de l'ARNr 16S. Des analyses statistiques ont été menées pour comparer la diversité microbienne et l'abondance relative entre les échantillons infectés et non infectés. Résultats : L'analyse histopathologique des voies biliaires félines infectées a révélé une hyperplasie épithéliale importante caractérisée par une prolifération cellulaire accrue. De plus, une fibrose péricanalaire et une fibrose du collagène ont été observées dans les échantillons infectés par rapport aux témoins non infectés. La richesse microbienne biliaire diminue avec la progression de la maladie par rapport aux témoins non infectés. L'abondance des streptocoques est positivement corrélée à la gravité de la maladie, dominant les communautés dans les échantillons avec cancer. L'analyse fonctionnelle prédictive suggère que C. sinensis pourrait favoriser les lésions des voies biliaires en augmentant les gènes microbiens pour le métabolisme des glucides, la réplication et la réparation. Conclusions : Cette étude fournit des informations complètes sur les effets pathologiques de l'infection à C. sinensis sur l'épithélium des voies biliaires félines et son influence sur la composition du microbiote biliaire. Ces nouvelles découvertes donnent un aperçu sur la pathogenèse de C. sinensis et pourraient éclairer le développement thérapeutique contre la clonorchiase humaine. Des recherches supplémentaires sont nécessaires pour élucider les mécanismes sous-jacents à l'origine de ces changements et leurs implications sur les interactions hôte-parasite.

Bladder duplication in the male cat: the first case report in China.

BACKGROUND: Bladder duplication is a rare congenital lower urinary tract anomaly disease characterized by the presence of two bladders, possibly with duplication of the urethra. This disease is rarely reported in cats. The clinical symptoms are commonly occult, with increased difficulty in making a definitive diagnosis, especially if there is no obvious urethral duplication. The diagnosis is typically based on radiographs and ultrasound, with computer tomography serving as a more advanced imaging diagnostic modality. Cases of duplicated bladders with accessory tubular tissues are even scarcer in both human and veterinary medicine. CASE PRESENTATION: A 6-year-old male neutered cat was brought to the hospital because of vomiting and constipation. Cystography revealed increased soft tissue density of a fusiform structure in the lower middle abdomen. The purulent-filled cavitary structure and the accessory tubular structure were removed via surgery, and histopathological examination confirmed a double bladder with attached accessory tubular tissue. After antibiotic treatment, the cat recovered uneventfully. CONCLUSION: This is the first case of bladder duplication in China and the first case of feline bladder duplication with tubular structure attachment in the world. This information will provide a reference for the diagnosis and treatment of similar cases in the future.

Feline friendly POCUS: how to implement it into your daily practice.

PRACTICAL RELEVANCE: Cats are great pretenders; they often hide illness until they are critical. This makes patients of this species challenging to assess and manage in the emergency setting where quick and stress-free diagnosis and treatment are necessary. Veterinary point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a rapid, evidence-based, non-invasive, repeatable, cage-side ultrasonographic examination designed to answer clinically driven questions without compromising feline wellbeing. Integrating feline friendly POCUS as an extension of the physical examination to streamline diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, thereby limiting stress and improving overall patient care, is advocated by the authors of this article. EQUIPMENT: Given the multitude of ultrasound machines and probes available that are portable, meaning they can be moved around the clinic and used patient-side, it should be possible for most practitioners to integrate POCUS into daily practice. The authors' preferred equipment for feline POCUS is a microconvex probe and a portable machine with a fixed pre-set. This set-up allows the clinician to complete all POCUS (abdominal, lung and pleural space, and heart) without needing to move the patient, change probes or restrain the patient in a particular position, ultimately saving time, personnel and cost while maintaining patient comfort and safety. AIM: This review aims to serve as a valuable resource for veterinarians seeking to improve their feline patient care through the judicious utilisation of POCUS. In this article, the complex challenges posed by cats are addressed, and the different POCUS techniques, applications and clinical recommendations are discussed. EVIDENCE BASE: This review draws on the published literature, as well as the authors' own collective experience when providing recommendations.

Auranofin is lethal against feline Tritrichomonas foetus in vitro but ineffective in cats with naturally occurring infection.

Protozoal diarrhea caused by Tritrichomonas foetus (blagburni) is a prevalent, lifelong, and globally distributed burden in domestic cats. Treatment is limited to the use of 5-nitroimidazoles and treatment failure is common. The repurposed gold salt compound auranofin has killing activity against diverse protozoa in vitro but evidence of efficacy in naturally occurring protozoal infections is lacking. This exploratory study investigated the efficacy and safety of auranofin for treatment of cats with naturally occurring, 5-nitroimidazole-resistant, T. foetus infection. The minimum lethal concentration (MLC) of auranofin against 5 isolates of feline T. foetus was determined under aerobic conditions in vitro. Healthy cats and cats with T. foetus infection were treated with immediate release auranofin (range, 0.5-3 mg/cat for 7 days) or guar gum-coated auranofin capsules (0.5 or 3 mg/cat for 7 days). Adverse effects were monitored by clinical signs and clinicopathologic testing. Efficacy was determined by fecal consistency score, bowel movement frequency, and single-tube nested PCR of feces for T. foetus rDNA. Fecal samples were assayed for concentrations of auranofin, known and predicted metabolites of auranofin, gold containing molecules, and total gold content using HPLC, LC-MS, ion mobility-MS, and ICP-MS, respectively. Auranofin was effective at killing isolates of feline T. foetus at MLC ≥ 1 µg/ml. Treatment of cats with T. foetus infection with either immediate release auranofin or a colon-targeted guar gum-coated tablet of auranofin did not eradicate infection. Treatment failure occurred despite fecal concentrations of gold that met or exceeded the equivalent MLC of auranofin. Neither auranofin, known or predicted metabolites of auranofin, nor any gold-containing molecules >100 Da could be detected in fecal samples of treated cats. Adverse effects associated with auranofin treatment were common but minor. These studies identify that in vitro susceptibility test results of auranofin may not translate to treatment effectiveness in vivo even when achieving gold concentrations equivalent to the MLC of auranofin in the target environment. These studies further establish the absence of any predicted or unpredicted gold containing metabolites in feces after oral administration of auranofin.

Histopathological changes in testicular lesions in cats.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this retrospective study was to describe the neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions seen on histopathological examination of cat testes in Hong Kong between 2018 and 2024. METHODS: A total of 26 single or dual testes samples were collected from 18 cats by veterinarians at 14 veterinary clinics and submitted for histopathological examination. Laboratory records, including signalment, lesion location, age, breed and histopathological findings, were reviewed for each cat. RESULTS: Neoplastic testicular lesions were seen in three older cats (median age 8.5 years; range 3-17) compared with 18 non-neoplastic lesions in 15 cats (median age 1 year; range 0.5-3). The most common non-neoplastic lesions included inflammation (in the testes, epididymis, tunics and ductus deferens), cryptorchidism, and one case each of polyorchidism and epididymal cyst formation. Two of the testes with inflammation were identified on immunohistochemical staining as feline coronavirus-infected and one pair of testes was associated with the presence of extracellular Gram-negative bacteria at the lesion site. Three different neoplastic lesions were identified, one each of Sertoli cell tumour, leiomyoma and fibrosarcoma. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Non-neoplastic testicular lesions were most common, including inflammation, cryptorchidism, polyorchidism and epididymal cysts. To our knowledge, leiomyoma and fibrosarcoma have not been reported in cat testes before and represent important differential diagnoses for testicular lesions.

Most of the testicles examined from castrated cats because of disease noted by the owner had evidence of inflammation. Others were poorly developed because they had not descended correctly into the scrotum. Three cases of testicular cancer were noted and two of the types of cancer had not been reported in cats before but have been seen in humans.

Video-based compilation of acute pain behaviours in cats.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this work was to create a video-based compilation of acute pain behaviours in cats as an open-access online resource for training of veterinary health professionals. METHODS: A database comprising 60 h of video recordings of cats was used. Videos were previously recorded after ethical approval and written client consent forms, and involved cats with different types (eg, medical, surgical, trauma, orofacial) and degrees (eg, from no pain to severe pain) of acute pain, before and after surgery or the administration of analgesia. The database included videos of cats of different coat colours, ages, sex and breeds. Video selection was based on a published ethogram of acute pain behaviours in cats. Videos were selected by one observer (SM) according to their definition and quality, followed by a second round of screening by two observers (SM and PVS). Video editing included a standardised template (ie, watermark and titles). RESULTS: A total of 24 videos (mean length 33 ± 17 s) with each acute pain-related behaviour described in the ethogram were uploaded to an open-access online video-sharing platform (http://www.youtube.com/@Steagalllaboratory) with an individual hyperlink. Videos were provided with a short description of the behaviour for the public. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: This video-based compilation may promote better training of veterinary health professionals on acute pain assessment while improving feline health and welfare and the understanding of cat behaviours.

Signalment and laboratory findings in cats with diabetes mellitus in Germany: a retrospective review of laboratory submissions of 129,505 cats.

OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were to compare signalment and laboratory parameters between diabetic (D) and non-diabetic (ND) cats and poorly-controlled diabetic (PD) and well-controlled diabetic (WD) cats in Germany. METHODS: Laboratory data from Antech Lab Germany between 2015 and 2018 were retrospectively analysed. Age, sex, red blood cell count (RBC), creatinine (CREA), alkaline phosphatase (AP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), bilirubin (BILI), cholesterol (CHOL), triglycerides (TRI), glucose (GLU) and total thyroxine (TT4) were compared between D (fructosamine ⩾340 µmol/l) and ND cats, and PD (fructosamine >500 µmol/l) and WD (fructosamine 340-500 µmol/l) cats. The proportion of cats with anaemia (RBC ⩽4.21 ×1012/l), CREA >250 µmol/l, ALT >455 U/l, AP >315 U/l, BILI ⩾35 µmol/l and TT4 > reference interval (RI) was compared between PD and WD cats. Data are presented as median and interquartile range (IQR) and analysed using non-parametric tests. Significance was P<0.05, and effect size was assessed by Cramér V or r. RESULTS: In total, 129,505 cats were included (D: n = 9334 [prevalence 7.2%], WD: n = 5670/9334 [60.7%]). The median age of D and ND cats was 12 years (IQR D 9-14; ND 9-15); there was no difference in sex. A significant difference was found between groups (D vs ND; PD vs WD) for all parameters studied. Considering the effect sizes and medians outside the RI, the only relevant difference was higher CHOL, TRI, AP and GLU in PD compared with WD (CHOL: PD 7.46 [5.85-9.32] vs WD 5.44 [4.32-6.97] mmol/l, P<0.001, r = 0.39; TRI: PD 1.44 [0.84-3.66] vs WD 0.78 [0.5-1.35] mmol/l, P <0.001, r = 0.35; AP: PD 66 [47-92] vs WD 35 [23-59] U/l, P <0.001, r = 0.39; GLU: PD 23.7 [20.15-27.3] vs WD 6.89 [5-11.31] mmol/l, P <0.001, r = 0.69). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Laboratory changes in diabetic cats were mild and mainly associated with lipid derangements.

The incidence and trends of proteinuria, azotemia and hypertension in cats receiving toceranib phosphate.

OBJECTIVES: This retrospective study aimed to determine the incidence and trends of proteinuria, elevations in serum creatinine and urea, and systolic blood pressure in cats undergoing treatment with toceranib. METHODS: In total, 32 cats treated with toceranib for malignancies were analyzed. Cats were included if urinalysis and urine protein:creatinine ratio (UPC) measurements were available at 28 days (T1) and 56 days (T2) after starting the treatment. Cats with concurrent lower urinary tract disease, including urinary tract malignancy, were excluded. Friedman's ANOVA compared variables between time points, and the Spearman test assessed the correlation between treatment duration and UPC. RESULTS: The median starting dose of toceranib was 2.68 mg/kg (range 1.7-3.9). In total, 15 (46.9%) cats received concurrent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The most commonly treated tumors were oral squamous cell carcinoma (n = 10) and mast cell tumor (n = 5). None of the 32 cats developed progressive proteinuria or azotemia during the follow-up period (median 56 days; range 56-336). Notably, UPC and serum creatinine were significantly lower at T2 compared with baseline (P = 0.012 and 0.001, respectively). Among the four cats with baseline proteinuria, UPC decreased over time with or without concurrent telmisartan treatment (n = 2). All four of these cats experienced a reduction in tumor size with toceranib concurrently with their decreased UPC. There was no significant correlation between UPC and the duration of toceranib treatment (P = 0.089). Blood pressure was not significantly different over the assessed time points. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The incidence of proteinuria, renal azotemia and hypertension in cats treated with toceranib for neoplasia appears to be low. Toceranib may be a viable treatment option even in cats with pre-existing proteinuria or renal disease, with careful monitoring of trends recommended.

Clinical perioperative outcomes in 39 cats after single session bilateral femoral head and neck excision.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to evaluate the perioperative outcomes and complications of single session bilateral femoral head and neck excision (FHNE) in cats for treatment of bilateral coxofemoral joint disease. METHODS: The medical records of cats undergoing a single session bilateral FHNE were identified and the history, signalment, diagnosis, surgery reports, anesthetic records, postoperative radiographs, postoperative examinations, complications and outcomes were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 39 cats undergoing a single session bilateral FHNE were included. Bilateral slipped capital femoral epiphysis was the most commonly diagnosed etiology. All cats were discharged within 48 h of the procedure. One major complication and five minor complications were reported. All but one cat returned to normal activity and no owners reported concerns after the 2-week postoperative recheck. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Single session bilateral FHNE is a viable surgical option for the treatment of bilateral coxofemoral disease in cats that results in a quick return to function, especially when other options are not indicated, available or affordable.

Development of genogroup-specific ELISAs based on the VP1 protein to detect antibodies to GIV and GVI feline norovirus.

Feline norovirus (FNoV) is a potential pathogen of feline gastroenteritis and has two genogroups (GIV and GVI). Few epidemiological studies have been conducted on FNoV. We designed two enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) to identify genogroup-specific FNoV antibodies for serological surveillance. Analysis of sera from cats experimentally infected with FNoV GIV or GVI and from specific-pathogen-free (SPF) cats confirmed that the two recombinant proteins used in the assay react in a genogroup-specific manner. Of the 183 samples tested, 6.6% were positive for GIV and 26.2% were positive for GVI. Antibodies to both FNoV genogroups were detected in sera collected in 2005, seven years before FNoV was first reported.

Helminths of free-ranging dogs and cats in an urban natural reserve in Mexico City and their potential risk as zoonotic agents.

In the Reserva Ecológica del Pedregal of San Ángel, located in the south of Mexico City, Mexico, free-roaming dogs and cats coexist with 148 bird, 33 of mammal, 23 of reptile and seven amphibian species, that represent a remnant of the original fauna of the Mexican Plateau. The negative impact that dogs and cats have on local fauna is unobjectionable, however, the role that these introduced vertebrates play as potential transmitters of infectious diseases for native fauna and humans, is much less understood. Information about parasitic infections in native and introduced animals in this location is scarce. In order to ameliorate this lack of information, the objective of this study is to characterize the helminth fauna of the free-ranging dogs and cats of the ecological reserve. Between 2018 and 2023, 36 Felis silvestris catus and 7 Canis lupus familiaris were studied from the helminthological perspective. Endoparasites were obtained from the digestive tract and were identified to the species level using morphological and molecular evidence. Hosts were parasitized by eight species of helminths: in cats the cestodes Hydatigera taeniaeformis, Mesocestoides sp., Taenia rileyi and the nematode Toxocara cati were recorded, while in dogs, the cestode Taenia pisiformis and the nematodes Ancylostoma caninum, and Uncinaria stenocephala were found. The only species shared between cats and dogs was the cestode Dipylidium caninum. These free-ranging animals act as definitive hosts of 5 species known to have zoonotic potential; their presence in the area may generate a public and animal health problem if programs of dog and cat population control are not continued.