Cat Health News from the Winn Feline Foundation

Taurine and Commerical Cat Diets

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Heinze CR, Larsen JA, Kass PH et al: Plasma amino acid and whole blood taurine concentrations in cats eating commercially prepared diets, Am J Vet Res 70:1374, 2009.

The purpose of this study was to establish comprehensive reference ranges for plasma amino acid and whole body taurine concentrations in healthy adult cats eating commercial diets. Additionally, the researchers wanted to study the relationships of age, gender, body weight, body condition score (BCS), dietary protein concentration, and dietary ingredients with plasma amino acid and whole body taurine concentrations. Samples were taken and a complete health and diet history were obtained from 120 healthy adult cats. The study population consisted of cats belonging to students and faculty as well as a lesser number of university-owned cats housed in colony facilities. The investigators hypothesized that there would be associations between plasma amino acid concentrations and dietary protein concentrations and ingredients. The study did provide data on plasma amino acid and whole body taurine concentrations for a large population of adult cats fed commercial diets. Whole body taurine concentration is considered to be a more accurate measure of taurine status than plasma taurine concentration in cats and reflects the skeletal muscle concentrations more accurately. Gender and neuter status had an affect on plasma amino acid and whole body taurine concentrations where age, body weight, and BCS did not. Dietary protein concentration and dietary ingredients were not directly associated with plasma amino acid or whole blood taurine concentrations in this study. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Wakefield L, Shofer F, Michel K: Evaluation of cats fed vegetarian diets and attitudes of their caregivers, J Amer Vet Med Assoc 229:70, 2006.
>> PubMed Abstract

Zaghini G, Biagi G: Nutritional peculiarities and diet palatability in the cat, Vet Res Commun 29 Suppl 2:39, 2005.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Latent Feline Herpesvirus Infection

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Richter M, Schudel L, Tobler K et al: Clinical, virological, and immunological parameters associated with superinfection of latently with FeHV-1 infected cats, Vet Microbiol 138:205, 2009.

Feline herpesvirus (FHV) is a common respiratory and ocular pathogen of cats. It may be associated with recurrent ocular disease, even in vaccinated cats. These investigators examined the role of superinfecting FHV strains in recurrent disease. To do this, they genetically engineered a FHV strain to fluoresce, so that it could be distinguished from wild type strains of the virus. It was used to superinfect nine cats that were latently infected with a wild type strain of FHV. Active infection of the mutant virus in the inoculated cats was documented, but reactivation of the latent wild type strain did not occur. Following infection, no change in the clinical condition of the cats occurred. A rise in antibody titer and increased interferon production were noted. Thus, superinfection did induce an immune response, but was not associated with reactivation of latent virus. The authors concluded that vaccination of latently infected cats does not lead to reactivation of the latent virus, nor clinical disease. Sixteen months after superinfection, the cats were temporarily immunosuppressed, and assessed for reactivation of FHV. Mild signs were observed in all cats. Interestingly, only the wild type virus was identified; there was no evidence of mutant virus reactivation. Thus, it was not clear that the mutant virus was able to establish latency. The clinical disease observed was due to the reactivation of the latent wild type strain. The researchers continue to investigate the usefulness of this mutant marker virus to establish the pathogenesis of recurrent FHV disease. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Weigler BJ, Babineau CA, Sherry B et al: High sensitivity polymerase chain reaction assay for active and latent feline herpesvirus-1 infections in domestic cats, Vet Rec 140:335, 1997.
>> PubMed Abstract

Thiry E, Addie D, Belak S et al: Feline herpesvirus infection. ABCD guidelines on prevention and management, J Feline Med Surg 11:547, 2009.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Stability of Tritrichomonas foetus

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Hale S, Norris JM, Slapeta J: Prolonged resilience of Tritrichomonas foetus in cat faeces at ambient temperature, Vet Parasitol 166:60, 2009.

This study, from the University of Sydney, Australia, was designed to investigate two culture methods for Tritrichomonas foetus, and to evaluate the effect of sample storage time on diagnostic utility. The two culture methods evaluated were InPouch TF-Feline (Bio-Med Diagnostics) and Modified Diamond's Medium. Two batches of normal cat feces were spiked with T. foetus prior to being stored either at room temperature or refrigerated. At different time points, small samples were taken from the original batches and tested in the culture systems. Both culture systems performed well. The accumulative sensitivity was found to be 83% and 100% for the InPouch TF-Feline and Modified Diamond's Medium respectively over a 6 hour period. The researchers were able to successfully culture T. foetus from feces that had been stored at room temperature for 24 hours. This finding may indicate that the environmental resilience of the organism may be more robust than previously thought, and that transmission may not be limited to close contact between cats. [SL]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Tolbert MK, Gookin J: Tritrichomonas foetus: A New Agent of Feline Diarrhea, Compend Contin Educ Vet 31:374, 2009.
>> PubMed Abstract

Stockdale HD, Givens MD, Dykstra CC et al: Tritrichomonas foetus infections in surveyed pet cats, Vet Parasitol 160:13, 2009.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Dexmedetomidine for Sedation & Analgesia in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Slingsby, L.S., P.M. Taylor, and T. Monroe, Thermal antinociception after dexmedetomidine administration in cats: a comparison between intramuscular and oral transmucosal administration. J Feline Med Surg, 2009. 11(10): p. 829-34.

Dexmedetomidine belongs to a class of drugs called alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. It has authorization for use as a sedative and premedication in dogs and cats in the United States and Europe (Dexdormitor; Pfizer, UK). The administration of dexmedetomidine causes dose dependent sedation and analgesia that may be reversed by the antagonist atipamezole (Antisedan; Pfizer, UK). In this randomized cross-over study of 12 cats, dexmedetomidine was administered either intramuscularly (IM) or oral transmucosally (OTM) at a dose of 40mcg/kg. Almost all the cats in this study vomited after dexmedetomidine administration. Cats were not fasted overnight prior to administration and this result would suggest fasting beforehand would be good practice. The OTM route provided equally good sedation and reduction in sensitivity to pain as the same dose administered IM. The researchers conclude that the OTM route of administration is a useful alternative to the IM route when administering dexmedetomidine to healthy cats. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Granholm, M., et al., Evaluation of the clinical efficacy and safety of dexmedetomidine or medetomidine in cats and their reversal with atipamezole. Vet Anaesth Analg, 2006. 33(4): p. 214-23.
>> PubMed Abstract

Selmi, A., G. Mendes, and e. al, Evaluation of the sedative and cardiorespiratory effects of dexmedetomidine, dexmedetomidine-butorphanol, and dexmedetomidine-ketamine in cats. J Amer Vet Med Assoc, 2003. 222(1): p. 37-41.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Upper Respiratory Tract Disease in Shelters

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Dinnage, J.D., J.M. Scarlett, and J.R. Richards, Descriptive epidemiology of feline upper respiratory tract disease in an animal shelter. J Feline Med Surg, 2009. 11(10): p. 816-25.

Upper respiratory tract disease (URTD) is a common disease in cats and can spread quickly among cats residing in animal shelters. These infections cause suffering, consume vital personnel and financial resources, and limit adoptions. In a large urban shelter in the northeast United States, 531 kittens, 701 litters, and 2,203 adult cats were observed during their stays on a daily basis over a period of 50 weeks for signs of URTD. The median lengths of stay for adult cats and kittens were 5 and 4 days, respectively. Approximately 1/3 of the cats exhibited signs of infectious respiratory disease. Regardless of age group, the probability of developing URTD rose steadily with increasing time spent in the shelter. The probability of exhibiting signs remained low until day 6 and then rose steadily to where by day 14, the cumulative probabilities had risen to 84% (litters), 86% (individual kittens), and 80% (adult cats). In different categories, adult cats over 11 years of age had a significantly higher risk of URTD than younger cats. Neutered males cats had higher rates of URTD than spayed females, and purebred cats were at higher risk than ones of mixed breeding. Strays were more likely to have URTD than owner-surrendered cats. The study documented the strong association between the length of the residence in a shelter and the risk of developing URTD. The results suggest shelters should focus efforts and programs at minimizing the length of time cats spend in a shelter. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Zicola, A., et al., Feline herpesvirus 1 and feline calicivirus infections in a heterogeneous cat population of a rescue shelter. J Feline Med Surg, 2009.
>> PubMed Abstract

Edwards, D.S., et al., Risk factors for time to diagnosis of feline upper respiratory tract disease in UK animal adoption shelters. Prev Vet Med, 2008. 87(3-4): p. 327-39.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Treatment of Feline Hyperthyroidism with Carbimazole

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Frenais, R., et al., Clinical efficacy and safety of a once-daily formulation of carbimazole in cats with hyperthyroidism. J Small Anim Pract, 2009. 50(10): p. 510-5.

Traditionally, medical treatment of feline hyperthyroidism has involved daily use of the azole drugs, methimazole or its pro-drug, carbimazole. Many cats require twice daily treatment with these drugs. A novel controlled-release formulation of carbimazole (Vidalta) has been developed by Intervet. These researchers evaluated the efficacy and safety of this new carbimazole formulation via a multi-center study of 44 client-owned cats with hyperthyroidism. Treatment was started at 15 mg/cat once daily, and dose was adjusted as required. Cats were followed for 53 weeks. The median dose over the study period was 10-15 mg/cat once daily. Clinical signs improved in almost all cats within 3 weeks after treatment was started. An increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) was noted in 25% of the cats, eosinophilia was noted in 20%, and lymphopenia in 16%. The researchers conclude that once daily administration of controlled-release carbimazole is effective with acceptable tolerance during short and long term treatment of feline hyperthyroidism. [SL]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Frenais, R., S. Burgaud, and L.J.I. Horspool, Pharmacokinetics of controlled-release carbimazole tablets support once daily dosing in cats. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 2008. 31(3): p. 213-219.
>> PubMed Abstract

Trepanier, L.A., Medical management of hyperthyroidism. Clin Tech Small Anim Pract, 2006. 21(1): p. 22-8.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Treatment of Feline Diabetes

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Marshall, R.D., J.S. Rand, and J.M. Morton, Treatment of newly diagnosed diabetic cats with glargine insulin improves glycaemic control and results in higher probability of remission than protamine zinc and lente insulins. Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery, 2009. 11(8): p. 683-691.

Diabetes mellitus is a moderately common disease in cats. The most effective and reliable treatment is insulin therapy to achieve glycemic control. The authors’ study compared the glycemic control and remission possibilities in 24 newly diagnosed diabetic cats. The cats were treated twice daily with either glargine, protamine zinc (PZI), or lente insulin along with being fed a low carbohydrate-high protein canned food. The primary finding was that for newly diagnosed diabetic cats, treatment with glargine resulted in a higher probability of remission compared to PZI or lente insulin. Better glycemic control of cats after 17 days of treatment with glargine was noted and based on lower mean blood glucose concentrations. By day 112, 8 of 8 cats treated with glargine achieved remission while 2/8 in the lente group and 3/8 in the PZI group had achieved remission. None of the glargine-treated cats exhibited signs of hypoglycemia while 3 cats in the other groups developed clinically severe hypoglycemia. The study indicates that twice-daily treatment with glargine insulin may deliver better glycemic control and possibility of remission than similar treatment with lente or PZI insulin. The authors note that good glycemic control soon after diagnosis with diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased probability of remission and this should be the goal of insulin therapy. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Hall, T.D., et al., Effects of diet on glucose control in cats with diabetes mellitus treated with twice daily insulin glargine. Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery, 2009. 11(2): p. 125-130.
>> PubMed Abstract

Weaver, K.E., et al., Use of glargine and lente insulins in cats with diabetes mellitus. J Vet Intern Med, 2006. 20(2): p. 234-8.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Feline Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Role of Papillomavirus

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Munday, J.S., M. Dunowska, and S. De Grey, Detection of two different papillomaviruses within a feline cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: case report and review of the literature. N Z Vet J, 2009. 57(4): p. 248-51.

Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) are among the most common malignant skin cancers of cats. There is evidence that papillomaviruses promote SCC development on sun-exposed areas in humans. About 100 papillomaviruses are known in humans, but only a few in dogs and cats. Previous reports have identified papillomaviruses in a certain proportion of canine SCC. This paper describes the identification (using PCR) of viral DNA from two distinct papillomaviruses in an invasive SCC on the nose of a 15-year-old cat. One of the two viruses has never been described before. It is also the first time that multiple papillomaviruses have been detected in a single cancerous lesion in a cat. This finding supports the association between papillomaviruses and SCC in cats. If papillomaviruses influence the development of feline SCC, new approaches to treatment may be possible. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Munday, J.S., et al., Detection of papillomaviral sequences in feline Bowenoid in situ carcinoma using consensus primers. Vet Dermatol, 2007. 18(4): p. 241-5.
>> PubMed Abstract

Zaugg, N., et al., Detection of novel papillomaviruses in canine mucosal, cutaneous and in situ squamous cell carcinomas. Vet Dermatol, 2005. 16(5): p. 290-8.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Mycobacterial Infections in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Horne KS, Kunkle GA: Clinical outcome of cutaneous rapidly growing mycobacterial infections in cats in the south-eastern United States: a review of 10 cases (1996-2006), J Feline Med Surg 11:627, 2009.

In the United States, there have been very few case reports of cutaneous mycobacterial infections in cats. This study reviews 10 cases of cats with rapidly growing mycobacterial infections from the south-eastern United States. This condition is fairly uncommon and is a challenging condition to treat in cats due to a variable response rate to surgical debulking and aggressive antibiotic therapy. The majority of these cases were spayed female cats with the median age of 8 years. The majority of the cats presented with characteristic lesions in multiple locations that were subsequent to trauma. The most frequently cultured organism was Mycobacterium fortuitum. The cats were treated with a variety of antibiotics for a median of 12 months, and half of this number also underwent surgical debulking. Five out of the 10 cats treated reached clinical resolution and 5 cases did not. Those cases that achieved resolution required a median of 7 months of antibiotic treatment after diagnosis. With only half of the cases reaching resolution, one must consider a guarded prognosis in cases of feline rapidly growing mycobacterial infection in the south-eastern portion of the United States. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Kaneene JB, Bruning-Fann CS, Dunn J, Mullaney TP, Berry D, Massey JP, Thoen CO, Halstead S, Schwartz K. Epidemiologic investigation of Mycobacterium bovis in a population of cats. Am J Vet Res. 2002 Nov;63(11):1507-11.
>> PubMed Abstract

Appleyard GD, Clark EG. Histologic and genotypic characterization of a novel Mycobacterium species found in three cats. J Clin Microbiol. 2002
Jul;40(7):2425-30.
>> Free, full text article

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Virulent Systemic Feline Calicivirus

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Reynolds BS, Poulet H, Pingret JL et al: A nosocomial outbreak of feline calicivirus associated virulent systemic disease in France, J Feline Med Surg 11:633, 2009.

This paper documents an outbreak of virulent systemic (VS) feline calicivirus (FCV) at a veterinary teaching hospital in France. The initial case was referred to the hospital, presenting with severe depression, fever, facial and limb edema, crusting, mucopurulent nasal discharge, oral ulceration and dyspnea. Within 10 days, 2 cats (one owned by a veterinary student and one that had visited the hospital 3 days previous) presented with similar disease symptoms. These 3 cats all died or were euthanized without a confirmed diagnosis. The fourth case presented 3 days after a visit to the hospital, and FCV was confirmed. At that point, the possibility of hospital-acquired infection was assessed, and 3 additional hospitalized cats were found to be infected. The hospital was then closed to cats for 19 days and disinfected. An eighth cat owned by a veterinary student who was working in the hospital during this period also contracted the virus and was hospitalized at a private clinic. Of the 8 affected cats, 3 died, 2 were euthanized, and 2 recovered. As indicated, 2 cases never in the affected hospital occurred in cats infected by their owners (veterinary students present at the hospital). The virus from this outbreak was characterized, and found to be the same in all cases. This outbreak illustrates the highly contagious nature of this virus. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related Articles:
Radford AD, Addie D, Belak S et al: Feline calicivirus infection. ABCD guidelines on prevention and management, J Feline Med Surg 11:556, 2009.
>> Free, full text article

Radford AD, Coyne KP, Dawson S et al: Feline calicivirus, Vet Res 38:319, 2007.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Feline Tooth Resorption

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

DeLaurier A, Boyde A, Jackson B et al: Identifying early osteoclastic resorptive lesions in feline teeth: a model for understanding the origin of multiple idiopathic root resorption, J Periodontal Res 44:248, 2009.

One of the most common oral lesions in cats is osteoclastic tooth resorption, a destructive lesion that typically results in pain and tooth loss. The underlying cause of this dental lesion in cats is not well understood. The objective of this study was to investigate the origin and progression of early tooth resorption lesions in teeth with no clinical signs of disease. The surfaces of 138 teeth from 13 adult cats were analyzed using electron microscopy. At least one resorptive lesion was found in 53% of the teeth. Most cats (85%) had tooth lesions, and there was a significant association between increasing age and incidence of lesions. The most commonly affected teeth were the mandibular molars. Resorptive lesions were found at the cemento-enamel junction in 38% of teeth. Evidence of repair limited to the root surface was found in 23% of teeth. When lesions occurred at the cemento-enamel junction, there was no evidence of repair. The researchers conclude that resorptive lesions are common in feline teeth, even when no signs of disease are obvious. Lesions can be found anywhere on the tooth surface, but there seems to be absent or compromised repair mechanisms at the cemento-enamel junction. [SL]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Girard N, Servet E, Biourge V et al: Feline tooth resorption in a colony of 109 cats, J Vet Dent 25:166, 2008.
>> PubMed Abstract

Lewis JR, Okuda A, Shofer FS et al: Significant association between tooth extrusion and tooth resorption in domestic cats, J Vet Dent 25:86, 2008.
>> PubMed Abstract

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FeLV and FIV Affect Blood Values in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Gleich S, Hartmann K: Hematology and serum biochemistry of feline immunodeficiency virus-infected and feline leukemia virus-infected cats, J Vet Intern Med 23:552, 2009.

Complete documentation of the hematologic and biochemical values in cats naturally infected by feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or feline leukemia virus (FeLV) has been lacking. The authors performed a retrospective study of 3,780 client owned cats tested for FIV and FeLV. The objective was to report differences in laboratory values between FIV- or FeLV-infected and non-infected and between FIV- and FeLV-infected cats. Serum activity levels of aspartate transaminase (AST) and glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH) and serum concentration of glucose were significantly lower, while serum concentrations of total protein (TP) and gamma-globulins were significantly higher in FIV-positive cats compared with negative cats. Results indicated significantly lower PCV, hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell count (RBC) and platelet counts (PLT) in FeLV-positive cats than FIV- infected and control cats. TP and creatinine concentrations were significantly lower in FeLV-infected cats than in non-infected. FeLV-infected cats were at high risk for the development of cytopenias and hematologic abnormalities are common. Clinicopathologic abnormalities are less frequent in FIV-infected cats. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related Articles:
Hofmann-Lehmann R, Holznagel E, Ossent P et al: Parameters of disease progression in long-term experimental feline retrovirus (feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus) infections: hematology, clinical chemistry, and lymphocyte subsets, Clin Diagn Lab Immunol 4:33, 1997.
>> Free, full text article

Levy JK, Scott HM, Lachtara JL et al: Seroprevalence of feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus infection among cats in North America and risk factors for seropositivity, J Am Vet Med Assoc 228:371, 2006.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Feline Immunodeficiency Virus in African Lions

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Roelke ME, Brown MA, Troyer JL et al: Pathological manifestations of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection in wild African lions, Virology 390:1, 2009.

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), an important pathogen of domestic cats, also infects other members of the Felidae family, including African lions. Lions have FIV seroprevalence levels of 10% in some populations, and different strains of the virus are known to circulate in much of Africa. It has been unclear whether this virus causes any disease in infected lions, or if it is a host-adapted virus that causes no disease. This study investigated lions in Botswana and Tanzania to determine if there were any clinical correlates with FIV infection. Sixty-four lions in Botswana parks, and 8 lions from the Serengeti Park in Tanzania were sampled. Virtually all FIV-infected animals had gingivitis and poor oral health. Many had papillomatous lesions on the underside of the tongue. Infected lions also had evidence of chronic inflammation. Dehydration was also more common among infected lions, though the underlying cause was not known, as most lived in swamplands with ample water. Anemia was also found more often in infected lions, as was poor coat condition, and lymphoid depletion. The investigators concluded that over time, FIV infections in free-ranging lions can lead to adverse clinical, immunological, and pathological outcomes in some individuals, and could have a detrimental impact on their survival, particularly in times of stress. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Pecon-Slattery J, McCracken CL, Troyer JL, VandeWoude S, Roelke M, Sondgeroth K, Winterbach C, Winterbach H, O'Brien SJ. Genomic organization, sequence divergence, and recombination of feline immunodeficiency virus from lions in the wild. BMC Genomics. 2008 Feb 5;9:66.
>> Free, full text article

Brown EW, Yuhki N, Packer C et al: A lion lentivirus related to feline immunodeficiency virus: epidemiologic and phylogenetic aspects, J Virol 68:5953, 1994.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Weight Loss and Diet in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Vasconcellos RS, Borges NC, Goncalves KN et al: Protein intake during weight loss influences the energy required for weight loss and maintenance in cats, J Nutr 139:855, 2009.

The effects of various nutrients, such as protein and carbohydrate, on weight loss in cats are controversial. In this study, performed at the Universidada Estadual Paulista, Sao Paolo, Brazil, the effects of two diets with different protein levels on weight loss and maintenance was assessed. The control group of obese cats received a diet containing 21 g crude protein on a metabolizable energy basis, and the high-protein group received a diet containing 28 g crude protein. All cats were fed the diet until safe, controlled weight loss of 20% was achieved. After weight loss, all cats were fed a diet containing 28 g crude protein and were monitored for 120 days. During the weight loss phase, the control group experienced a reduction in lean body mass, whereas the high-protein group did not. Overall, the high-protein diet allowed a higher energy intake to achieve weight loss than the control diet, thus reducing the severity of energy restriction required. [SL]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
German AJ, Holden S, Bissot T et al: Changes in body composition during weight loss in obese client-owned cats: loss of lean tissue mass correlates with overall percentage of weight lost, J Feline Med Surg 10:452, 2008.
>> PubMed Abstract

Villaverde C, Ramsey JJ, Green AS et al: Energy restriction results in a mass-adjusted decrease in energy expenditure in cats that is maintained after weight regain, J Nutr 138:856, 2008.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Esophageal Stricture Treatment for Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Bissett SA, Davis J, Subler K et al: Risk factors and outcome of bougienage for treatment of benign esophageal strictures in dogs and cats: 28 cases (1995-2004), J Am Vet Med Assoc 235:844, 2009.

Benign esophageal strictures (BES) can be a difficult problem for owners and pets as they can be costly to treat and are associated with a poor prognosis. Up to 30% of the pets affected can only be fed liquid diets long term. The most common cause of BES reportedly is gastrointestinal reflux associated with general anesthesia. Esophageal bougienage is a process of dilation of the esophagus with mechanical dilators. BES in the past has been primarily treated with balloon dilators. The goal of this study was to compare the outcomes of esophageal bougienage to balloon dilation, considering that bougienage can be a more cost effective procedure. Eight cats with BES were evaluated as part of the study. Six of the 8 cats achieved a good outcome with bougienage, defined as a tolerance of solid food with regurgitation less than once a week. Cats with BES were most likely to have a recent history of general anesthesia, vomiting, or gastrointestinal tract trichobezoars (hairballs) than cats in a reference population. In 3 cats with BES, doxycycline induced esophagitis was the suspected cause of the disorder. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Glazer A, Walters P: Esophagitis and esophageal strictures., Comp Contin Edu Pract Vet 30:281, 2008.
>> PubMed Abstract

Leib M, Dinnel H, Ward D et al: Endoscopic balloon dilation of benign esophageal strictures in dogs and cats, J Vet Intern Med 15:547, 2001.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Methicillin-resistant Staph infections in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Faires MC, Tater KC, Weese JS: An investigation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonization in people and pets in the same household with an infected person or infected pet, J Am Vet Med Assoc 235:540, 2009.

Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important pathogen that has been identified in humans, as well as dogs and cats. MRSA from humans may cause infections in pets, and pets may be sources of MRSA for human infection. In order to lessen the risk of transmission of MRSA between humans and pets, a better understanding of the role, if any, of pet-to-human transmission is needed. This report describes an investigation of the prevalence of MRSA in people and their pets within the same household in which MRSA infection was known to exist, and to compare the isolates identified within a household. Households in which MRSA infection had been identified in a pet within the past month (part 1), as well as households in which one or more persons had experienced >1 MRSA infection within the past year (part 2) were included. Nasal specimens from humans and nasal and rectal swabs from pets were collected and cultured for MRSA. In households with MRSA, both humans and pets, including cats, were found to be infected, and the isolates were indistinguishable whether from humans or pets. This indicated that cross-species infection could occur, though the direction (human to pets or vice versa) was not known. The authors speculate that humans were the most likely source for the pets, rather than the reverse as the isolates were related to community-associated human strains. In addition, the affected pets were not in contact with other animals, and thus likely contracted the MRSA from their human owners. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Epstein JH, Price JT. The significant but understudied impact of pathogen
transmission from humans to animals. Mt Sinai J Med. 2009 Oct;76(5):448-55.
>> PubMed Abstract

Springer B, Orendi U, Much P, Höger G, Ruppitsch W, Krziwanek K, Metz-Gercek S, Mittermayer H. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: a new zoonotic agent? Wien Klin Wochenschr. 2009;121(3-4):86-90.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Feline Idiopathic Facial Dermatitis

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Chung TH, Ryu MH, Kim DY et al: Topical tacrolimus (FK506) for the treatment of feline idiopathic facial dermatitis, Aust Vet J 87:417, 2009.

A severe form of pruritic facial dermatitis has been identified in Persian cats. Affected cats have dermatitis around the eyes, nose, and chin with a black waxy discharge. It has proven very difficult to manage in most cats, and the underlying cause is unknown. Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressive drug derived from a soil bacterium. In people, it has been used for treatment of dermatitis, especially eczema and vitiligo. Use of the drug in cats has not been well studied. This case report describes a 3-year-old neutered male Persian cat with chronic ulcerative facial dermatitis diagnosed in Seoul, South Korea. Initial treatment with antimicrobial drugs for secondary infections produced some improvement. The cat was then treated with 0.1% topical tacrolimus ointment. The authors state the patient has been managed effectively with this drug without adverse effects. [SL]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Fontaine J, Heimann M: Idiopathic facial dermatitis of the Persian cat: three cases controlled with cyclosporine, Veterinary Dermatology 15:64, 2004.
>> Abstract

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Suppression of Estrus in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Gimenez F, Stornelli MC, Tittarelli CM et al: Suppression of estrus in cats with melatonin implants, Theriogenology 72:493, 2009.

Cat overpopulation is a large problem in much of the world. Surgical contraception has been the method of choice, but is not feasible in some countries because of economic limitations, and lack of organized programs. Control of reproduction is needed, but little work has been done in non-surgical feline contraception. Cats are long-day breeders; melatonin may signal the feline ovary, and exogenous melatonin may mimic shortening daylight. This study examined the usefulness and safety of heat, or estrus, suppression in cats with melatonin implants. Melatonin implants were given to nine queens, while five received a placebo, during the interestrus period. This was followed by a second implant during estrus. Vaginal cytology, behavior, and reproductive status were examined. The interestrus period was extended by two to four months in the queens receiving melatonin. Once suppression waned, and estrus occurred, pregnancy rates were not affected. The authors concluded that subcutaneous melatonin implants effectively, reversibly, and safely suppressed estrus in queens for 2 to 4 months. Additional studies are needed to suppress estrus in queens for the entire breeding season. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Munson L, Bauman J, Asa C et al: Efficacy of the GnRH analogue deslorelin for suppression of oestrous cycles in cats, J Reprod Fertil Suppl 57:269, 2001.
>> PubMed Abstract

Levy J, Miller L, Crawford P et al: GnRH immunocontraception of male cats, Theriogenology 62:1116, 2004.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Probiotic Supplementation in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Lappin MR, Veir JK, Satyaraj E et al: Pilot study to evaluate the effect of oral supplementation of Enterococcus faecium SF68 on cats with latent feline herpesvirus 1, J Feline Med Surg 11:650, 2009.

A very common infectious disease in cats is feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1). The virus is frequently associated with morbidity because of recurrent ocular and respiratory signs of disease. One dietary supplemental probiotic, Enterococcus faecium strain SF68, has immune enhancing properties. SF68 supplementation is considered safe for use in cats. Twelve cats with chronic FHV-1 infections were given either SF68 or a placebo. The cats were then monitored for clinical signs of disease, monitored for FHV-1 shedding, and evaluated for FHV-1 specific humoral and cell-mediated responses and fecal microbiome stability. The researchers found that clinical results varied amongs individual cats, although overall findings suggested that administration of the probiotic lessened morbidity associated with chronic FHV-1 infection in some cats. This was a pilot study and additional research is warranted to evaluate this protocol in a clinical setting. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Veir JK, Knorr R, Cavadini C et al: Effect of supplementation with Enterococcus faecium (SF68) on immune functions in cats, Vet Ther 8:229, 2007.
>> PubMed Abstract

Veir JK, Lappin MR, Dow SW: Evaluation of a novel immunotherapy for treatment of chronic rhinitis in cats, J Feline Med Surg 8:400, 2006.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Cats and Helicobacter

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Takemura, L. S., P. L. Camargo, et al. (2009). "Helicobacter spp. in cats: association between infecting species and epithelial proliferation within the gastric lamina propria." J Comp Pathol 141(2-3): 127-34.

Helicobacter are bacteria that colonize the gastric lumen and duodenum. In humans, these bacteria have been linked to gastritis, gastric ulcers, and gastric adenocarcinomas. The prevalence of Helicobacter in cats is high, but it is not known if there is an associated risk of gastric lesions. In this study, gastric samples were collected from 23 cats; 18 with no clinical signs, and 5 that had chronic vomiting. Samples were assessed microscopically for epithelial changes, as well as by PCR for the organism. The bacteria were detected in 20 of the 23 cats, four of which were from the cats experiencing chronic vomiting. No correlation was found between gastric inflammation and level of Helicobacter colonization. Helicobacter colonization was associated with increased epithelial proliferation in the stomach; thus, the authors postulate, it could contribute to gastric cancers. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Greiter-Wilke, A., E. Scanziani, et al. (2006). "Association of Helicobacter with cholangiohepatitis in cats." J Vet Intern Med 20(4): 822-7.
>> PubMed Abstract

Bridgeford, E. C., R. P. Marini, et al. (2008). "Gastric Helicobacter species as a cause of feline gastric lymphoma: A viable hypothesis." Vet Immunol Immunopathol 123(1-2): 106-13.
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Diabetes and Glucocorticoids in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Lowe, A. D., T. K. Graves, et al. (2009). "A pilot study comparing the diabetogenic effects of dexamethasone and prednisolone in cats." J Amer Anim Hosp Assoc 45(5): 215-224.

One of the most common endocrine diseases in the cat is diabetes mellitus. Glucocorticoids are one of the most prescribed classes of drugs in veterinary medicine and there is little known about the safety profiles of these drugs in cats. Glucocorticoids carry a risk of side effects in most species, although cats have been considered resistant to many of the deleterious effects. This study followed 14 cats that received daily prednisolone (4.4 mg/kg, PO) or dexamethasone (0.55 mg/kg, PO) for 56 days. The doses were considered clinically equipotent. Serum fructosamine and urine glucose were measured on days 0, 28, and 56. In addition, insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, and peak insulin secretion were measured in each group before and at the end of the glucocorticoid adminstration. The data suggested that dexamethasone treatment, compared to prednisolone, results in greater fructosamine concentrations, greater decreases in insulin sensitivity, a lesser degree of insulin secretion from pancreatic beta-cells in the face of higher glucose and fructosamine concentrations, and a greater prevalence of glucosuria. These results support the hypothesis that dexamethasone may be a more potent inducer of a pre-diabetic or diabetic state than an equivalent dose of prednisolone. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Lowe, A. D., K. L. Campbell, et al. (2008). "Clinical, clinicopathological and histological changes observed in 14 cats treated with glucocorticoids." Vet Rec 162(24): 777-83.
>> PubMed Abstract

Lowe, A. D., K. L. Campbell, et al. (2008). "Glucocorticoids in the cat." Vet Dermatol 19(6): 340-7.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Rabies in Vaccinated Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Murray KO, Holmes KC, Hanlon CA: Rabies in vaccinated dogs and cats in the United States, 1997-2001, J Am Vet Med Assoc 235:691, 2009.

Rabies is one of the most well-known and oldest zoonotic diseases. The disease continues to be a major public health concern in the United States. World Rabies Day is recognized annually in the month of September to highlight this concern. Globally, 35,000 to 50,000 human deaths can be attributed to bites from rabid dogs, primarily in Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin American and India. The incidence of rabies in domestic animals in the United States has decreased substantially in the last 50 years, while the incidence in wildlife has increased. This retrospective study contains results from 21 states and indicates that rabies is uncommon in vaccinated dogs and cats but can still occur. Thirty-five laboratory-confirmed cases of rabies out of 1,104 cases involved dogs and cats with a history of rabies vaccination. This information included 2 dogs and 3 cats in which vaccinations were considered current. The clinical signs of rabies most often seen in cats include aggression, paralysis, and lethargy. Other signs include excitability, change in voice, loss of appetite, choking, difficulty swallowing, ataxia, tremors, and anorexia. The study concluded that veterinarians should include rabies in the differential diagnosis for any dog or cat with clinical signs compatible with rabies regardless of vaccination history. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Blanton JD, Robertson K, Palmer D et al: Rabies surveillance in the United States during 2008, J Am Vet Med Assoc 235:676, 2009.
>> PubMed Abstract

Frymus T, Addie D, Belak S et al: Feline rabies. ABCD guidelines on prevention and management, J Feline Med Surg 11:585, 2009.
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Prevalence of FeLV and FIV in Canada

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Little S, Sears W, Lachtara J et al: Seroprevalence of feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus infection among cats in Canada, Can Vet J 50:644, 2009.

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are two of the most important infectious diseases of cats worldwide. Many studies have evaluated the prevalence of FeLV and FIV in North American cats, but very little data has been available for Canada. Veterinary clinics, animal shelters, cat rescue programs, and feral cat programs in Canada were invited to participate in the study. Enrolled participants were requested to submit the results of FeLV and FIV testing performed between Aug. 1 and Nov. 15, 2007. Information collected on each cat tested included location of testing, age, gender, access to outdoors, and whether the cat was ill at the time of testing. A total of 343 vet clinics and 13 shelters/rescue groups representing all Canadian provinces participated. Complete results were received for 11,144 cats of which 4.3% were positive for FIV and 3.4% were positive for FeLV. The seroprevalence of FeLV and FIV in this study was higher than in a recent similar study of predominantly US cats (FIV 2.5%, FeLV 2.3%). [SL]
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Little SE: Feline immunodeficiency virus testing in stray, feral, and client-owned cats of Ottawa, Can Vet J 46:898, 2005.
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Levy JK, Scott HM, Lachtara JL et al: Seroprevalence of feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus infection among cats in North America and risk factors for seropositivity, J Am Vet Med Assoc 228:371, 2006.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Intestinal Lymphoma in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Lingard AE, Briscoe K, Beatty JA, et al. Low-grade alimentary lymphoma: clinicopathological findings and response to treatment in 17 cases. J Feline Med Surg 2009; 11: 692-700.

Alimentary lymphoma is the most common anatomic form of lymphoma in the cats. Seventeen cats in this study were diagnosed with low-grade alimentary lymphoma (LGAL) by immunological and immunohistochemical evaluation of full-thickness biopsies collected from multiple gastrointestinal sites during exploratory laparotomy. The most common clinical signs were weight loss, inappetence, vomiting or diarrhea, vomiting and diarrhea, lethargy, and polyphagia. Vomiting and/or diarrhea were considered chronic in 11 of 15 cats. Abdominal palpation was abnormal in 12 cats. Mature neutrophilia and anemia were the most common hematological abnormalities. Serum albumin was normal in all cats tested. The most common ultrasonographic finding was normal or increased intestinal wall thickness with preservation of layering. LGAL is typically a diffuse or multifocal disease and the ileum and jejenum were most commonly affected. The cats were put on three chemotherapeutic protocols, the majority being given the oral chemotherapeutic regimen of prednisolone and high-dose pulse chlorambucil. Thirteen of the 17 cats (76%) had complete clinical remission with a median remission time of 18.9 months. Cats that were lethargic were less likely to achieve complete remission. The prognosis for cats with LGAL treated with oral prednisolone in combination with high-dose pulse chlorambucil is good to excellent. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Wilson HM. Feline alimentary lymphoma: demystifying the enigma. Top Companion Anim Med 2008; 23: 177-84.
>> PubMed Abstract

Waly NE, Gruffydd-Jones TJ, Stokes CR, Day MJ. Immunohistochemical diagnosis of alimentary lymphomas and severe intestinal inflammation in cats. J Comp Pathol 2005; 133: 253-60.
>> PubMed Abstract

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New Treatment for Feline Herpesvirus

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Winn funded research

Wilkes RP, Kania SA. Use of interfering RNAs targeted against feline herpesvirus 1 glycoprotein D for inhibition of feline herpesvirus 1 infection of feline kidney cells. Am J Vet Res 2009; 70: 1018-25.

Feline herpesvirus causes at least 50% of upper respiratory infections in the cat. While vaccines are available, the virus persists in cat populations and spreads readily from infected to naive cats. As well, chronic disease occurs in latently infected cats. Most antiviral medications approved for a similar virus in people are either too toxic for cats or are only minimally effective. Small interfering RNAs (RNAi) are novel therapies that can be used to inhibit expression of genes of interest. This study evaluated the use of RNAi targeted against feline herpesvirus glycoprotein D in order to inhibit herpesvirus infection of cell cultures. Six chemically produced RNAi constructs were evaluated, and two of them proved highly effective in reducing expression of the target glycoprotein. Treatment of cell cultures with RNAi resulted in inhibition of herpesvirus replication. The researchers were able to show that glycoprotein D is essential for the virus to infect cells, and is a potential new target for antiviral treatment. [SL]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Thiry E, Addie D, Belak S, et al. Feline herpesvirus infection. ABCD guidelines on prevention and management. J Feline Med Surg 2009; 11: 547-55.
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Malik R, Lessels NS, Webb S, et al. Treatment of feline herpesvirus-1 associated disease in cats with famciclovir and related drugs. Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 2009; 11: 40-48.
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