Cat Health News from the Winn Feline Foundation

Rickettsial Infections in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Bayliss, D. B., A. K. Morris, et al. (2009). "Prevalence of Rickettsia species antibodies and Rickettsia species DNA in the blood of cats with and without fever." J Feline Med Surg 11(4): 266-70.

The purpose of the study was to determine if cats with a fever were more likely to have evidence of rickettsial infection than healthy, age-matched, control cats with no fever. Fever was determined to be a body temperature of over 102.5F (39.2C). The prevalence of Rickettsia species DNA in blood from clinically ill cats has not been determined. Rickettsia species antibodies have been detected in some cats but it is unknown whether infected cats develop clinical signs. Fever in humans has been attributed at times to “stealth” organisms that can evade the immune system, cause subtle clinical signs, and are not easily detectable by traditional diagnostic methods. Investigators questioned whether Rickettsia species might fill such a role in cats. The cat flea has been identified as a host and biological vector of R. felis and the question of whether the flea may be capable of transmitting the organism to cats is unanswered. The study results did not show an association between fever in cats and Rickettsia species DNA in blood or serologic evidence of exposure to R. felis. It would be optimal though to collect samples from clinically ill cats more than one time to further study this issue. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Hawley, J. R., S. E. Shaw, et al. (2007). "Prevalence of Rickettsia felis DNA in the blood of cats and their fleas in the United States." J Feline Med Surg 9(3): 258-62.
>> PubMed Abstract

Kamrani, A., V. R. Parreira, et al. (2008). "The prevalence of Bartonella, hemoplasma, and Rickettsia felis infections in domestic cats and in cat fleas in Ontario." Can J Vet Res 72(5): 411-9.
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Feline Leukemia Virus

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

Lutz, H., D. Addie, et al. (2009). "Feline leukaemia ABCD guidelines on prevention and management." J Feline Med Surg 11(7): 565-74.

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus found in cats everywhere in the world. While FeLV prevalence has decreased over the last few decades, primarily due to improvements in testing and vaccination, there are still millions of infected cats. Transmission of the virus occurs mainly via friendly contact, such as mutual grooming. Fortunately, the virus does not contaminate the environment as it is does not survive more than minutes outside the host. Young kittens are most at risk of infection. The most common clinical problems associated with FeLV infection are immunosuppression (with secondary infections), anemia, and lymphoma. Fortunately, effective vaccines exist against FeLV for cats at risk of infection. [SL]
>> PubMed Abstract
>> European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases

Related articles:
Levy, J., C. Crawford, et al. (2008). "2008 American Association of Feline Practitioners' feline retrovirus management guidelines." Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 10(3): 300-316.
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Feline Calicivirus and Fleas

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

Mencke, N., M. Vobis, et al. (2009). "Transmission of feline calicivirus via the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis)." Parasitol Res 105(1): 185-9.

Feline calicivirus is an important and contagious pathogen of cats. It is often associated with respiratory disease that is most commonly mild and self-limiting. However, it may cause severe pneumonia, or rarely, a systemic lethal disease. Transmission occurs most commonly through direct and indirect contact between cats. This investigation examined the potential for fleas to spread the virus. Fleas were fed blood containing the virus, and their feces were collected. Infectious virus was found in the flea feces for more than a week after exposure, and the virus could be transmitted to susceptible kittens via the fleas. Thus fleas could be a potential source for spread of this virus. However, the level of virus artificially fed to the fleas in this experiment was very high. In addition, while inoculation of infected fleas via the nose and mouth in the kittens was effective in transmission, infestation of the kittens alone with the fleas was not efficient for virus transmission. The researchers conclude that fleas could potentially be a source for transmission of feline calicivirus and note that it emphasizes the importance of good flea control. However, spread by respiratory droplets and direct contact remains the most important modes of spread. Transmission via fleas would most likely be significant in situations of crowding and significant flea infestation. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Radford, A. D., D. Addie, et al. (2009). "Feline calicivirus infection ABCD guidelines on prevention and management." J Feline Med Surg 11(7): 556-64.
>> PubMed Abstract

Hurley, K., P. Pesavento, et al. (2004). "An outbreak of virulent systemic feline calicivirus disease." J Amer Vet Med Assoc 224(2): 241-249.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Can Cats Count?

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Pisa, P. E. and C. Agrillo (2009). "Quantity discrimination in felines: a preliminary investigation of the domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) " J Ethology 27(2): 289-293.

The ability to count, while complicated, is not limited to humans. The simplest form of this is being able to discriminate between two different quantities of objects, and this ability may enhance survival in different ways. Little work has been done on this area in cats. In this study, four pet cats were trained to discriminate between groups of two and three dots for a food reward. The investigators demonstrated that cats can learn how to distinguish between two groups of objects that differed only in number. Interestingly, they concluded that cats do not spontaneously use numerical information, but rather make use of visual cues to solve the task. [VT]
>> Journal Abstract

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Renal Dysplasia in a Norwegian Forest Cat

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Aresu, L., R. Zanatta, et al. (2009). "Bilateral juvenile renal dysplasia in a Norwegian Forest Cat." J Feline Med Surg 11(4): 326-9.

Renal dysplasia is a kidney malformation made up of disorganized development of renal parenchyma due to abnormal differentiation. This condition leads to chronic renal failure in young animals. In addition to cats, renal dysplastic lesions have been found in dogs, cattle, horses, sheep, and humans. Renal dysplasia can be diagnosed only by histological examination of biopsy samples. The dysplasia can be unilateral or bilateral. In this case of a 5-month old Norwegian Forest cat, where the disease was bilateral, renal failure was the ultimate result. Kittens can often be clinically normal for extended periods of time; however, most of clinical signs are seen before 2 years of age. Feline renal dysplasia has been reported in fetal infections with panleukopenia virus. There are no reports of familial origins in feline renal dysplastic lesions. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Greco, D. (2001). "Congenital and inherited renal disease of small animals." Vet Clin North Amer: Sm Anim Pract 31(2): 393-399.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Oxidative Stress in Feline Diabetes

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

Webb, C. B. and L. Falkowski (2009). "Oxidative stress and innate immunity in feline patients with diabetes mellitus: the role of nutrition." J Feline Med Surg 11(4): 271-6.

The study was performed to test the hypothesis that oxidative stress is increased and neutrophil function is decreased in cats with diabetes mellitus (DM). Oxidative stress is considered a key component in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus in people. It is estimated that 85% of cats with DM are type 2 diabetics. The study included 20 control and 15 diabetic cats with measurements for oxidative stress and neutrophil function. The cats were fed a diet designed for feline diabetics (Purina DM Dietetic Management Feline Formula) for 8 weeks, and then assays were repeated. Plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD) was significantly less in cats with DM than the control cats, consistent with a greater degree of oxidative stress in the DM group. Glutathione peroxidase, an antioxidant enzyme, was increased significantly in both groups following 8 weeks of consuming a diabetes-specific diet. Other parameters of oxidative stress studied, plus neutrophil function, were similar between groups and did not change following dietary intervention. The DM cats were significantly older and heavier than the control cats and these factors could have affected differences between the two groups. The findings support continued study of antioxidant supplementation and dietary intervention in diabetic cats. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Webb, C. B., K. W. McCord, et al. (2009). "Assessment of oxidative stress in leukocytes and granulocyte function following oral administration of a silibinin-phosphatidylcholine complex in cats." American Journal of Veterinary Research 70(1): 57-62.
>> PubMed Abstract

Webb, C. B., T. L. Lehman, et al. (2008). "Effects of an oral superoxide dismutase enzyme supplementation on indices of oxidative stress, proviral load, and CD4:CD8 ratios in asymptomatic FIV-infected cats." Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 10(5): 423-430.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Cats and Zoonotic Parasites

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Overgaauw, P. A., L. van Zutphen, et al. (2009). "Zoonotic parasites in fecal samples and fur from dogs and cats in The Netherlands." Vet Parasitol 163(1-2): 115-122.

All pet owners need to be aware of the risks of zoonotic pathogens - diseases which can be shared by animals and people. The purpose of this study from the Netherlands was to determine if healthy cats and dogs harbor zoonotic parasite infections, and to evaluate interactions between pets and owners. Both fecal and hair samples were collected from healthy cats and dogs in Dutch veterinary clinics, representing 159 households. Information and samples were collected on 152 dogs and 60 cats. Toxocara (roundworm) eggs were found in 4.6% of the cat fecal samples and in 3.4% of the cat fur samples. However, none of the eggs found in fur were viable. Giardia was isolated from 13.6% of the cat fecal samples and Cryptosporidium was isolated from 4.6% of the cat samples. In evaluating interactions between owners and pets, 50% of owners said they allowed the pet to lick their face, 60% of pets visited the bedroom, 60% of cats are allowed to sleep on the bed, and 30% of cats sleep with the owner in bed. Other interesting findings were that 45% of cats were allowed to jump into the kitchen sink, and 8% of cat owners always washed their hands after contact with their pet. The researchers conclude that close physical contact between owners and cats is common, and must be recognized as a risk factor for transmission of zoonotic pathogens. Owners should be informed about hygiene and risks of disease transmission. [SL]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Palmer, C. S., I. D. Robertson, et al. (2009). "Intestinal parasites of dogs and cats in Australia: The veterinarian's perspective and pet owner awareness." Vet J.
>> PubMed Abstract

Stull, J. W., A. P. Carr, et al. (2007). "Small animal deworming protocols, client education, and veterinarian perception of zoonotic parasites in western Canada." Can Vet J 48(3): 269-76.
>> Free full text article

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Infertility in the Female Cat

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

Axnér, E., E. Ågren, et al. (2008). "Infertility in the cycling queen: seven cases." Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 10(6): 566-576.

There are many potential causes of infertility in cats, and investigation must take into account many factors, such as nutrition, housing, environment, management, and infectious diseases. This study evaluated 7 queens with a history of infertility despite normal estrous behavior and normal mating behavior. All queens were over 18 months of age, and had been mated at least 3 times with fertile males without pregnancy. A detailed medical and reproductive history for each queen was recorded. Each cat had a complete physical examination, vaginal swabs for culture and cytology, and blood samples for infectious diseases and hormone levels. The uterus and ovaries of each cat were examined with ultrasound. Four of the queens were treated with antibiotics, and 2 went on to successfully deliver kittens. Of the other 2 treated cats, one was not mated again, and one was mated unsuccessfully. One queen was spayed due to the discovery of uterine pathology. For 2 of the queens, no definitive diagnosis was established and no treatment was given. In summary, 4 of the queens were diagnosed with uterine pathology, while no definitive diagnosis could be established for the remaining 3 queens. [SL]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Axner, E. (2008). "Updates on reproductive physiology, genital diseases and artificial insemination in the domestic cat." Reprod Domest Anim 43 Suppl 2: 144-9.
>> PubMed Abstract

Romagnoli, S. (2003). "Clinical approach to infertility in the queen." J Fel Med Surg 5(2): 143-146.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Herpesvirus Infections in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Westermeyer, H. D., S. M. Thomasy, et al. (2009). "Assessment of viremia associated with experimental primary feline herpesvirus infection or presumed herpetic recrudescence in cats." American Journal of Veterinary Research 70(1): 99-104.

Feline herpesvirus-1 is associated with respiratory disease, often in kittens. Most infected cats remain latently infected for life; these latent infections may reactivate during times of stress. While herpesviruses in other species commonly spread to other tissues in infected animals via the bloodstream, this appears to be infrequent in cats. These researchers investigated the occurrence of virus in the blood of infected cats during acute infection, as well as during reactivation of latent infections. Following infection of six cats with FHV-1, virus was detected in the blood for up to two weeks post-infection. However, virus was not detected in the blood of 34 shelter cats, 25 of whom had evidence of FHV-associated disease and tested positive for the virus on conjunctival samples, using either virus isolation or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. The authors conclude there may be a brief period of viremia in cats following acute infection, but none associated with reactivation of latent infection. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Maggs, D., M. Lappin, et al. (1999). "Evaluation of serologic and viral detection methods for diagnosing feline herpesvirus-1 infection in cats with acute respiratory tract or chronic ocular disease." J Amer Vet Med Assoc 214(4): 502.
>> PubMed Abstract

Bannasch, M. and J. Foley (2005). "Epidemiologic evaluation of multiple respiratory pathogens in cats in animal shelters." J Fel Med Surg 7(2): 109-119.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Heart Disease in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Paige, C. F., J. A. Abbott, et al. (2009). "Prevalence of cardiomyopathy in apparently healthy cats." J Am Vet Med Assoc 234(11): 1398-1403.

The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence of cardiomyopathy and the relationship between cardiomyopathy and heart murmurs in apparently healthy cats. The study included 103 privately owned and apparently healthy cats that were physically and echocardiographically examined independently by two investigators. Left ventricular wall thickness was determined using 2-dimensional echocardiography in short-axis and long-axis views. Sixteen of the cats examined had heart murmurs detected; of these, 5 had cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy was also identified in 16 cats; 15 had hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and one had arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. The sensitivity and specificity of auscultatory detection of a heart murmur for diagnosis of cardiomyopathy were 31% and 87%, respectively. The findings of this study indicated that cardiomyopathy is common in healthy cats. In addition, detection of a heart murmur is not a reliable indicator of cardiomyopathy in apparently healthy cats. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Rush, J., L. Freeman, et al. (2002). "Population and survival characteristics of cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: 260 cases (1990-1999)." J Amer Vet Med Assoc 220(2): 202-207.
>> PubMed Abstract

Zimmering, T. M., F. Meneses, et al. (2009). "Measurement of N-terminal proatrial natriuretic peptide in plasma of cats with and without cardiomyopathy." American Journal of Veterinary Research 70(2): 216-222.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Scintigraphy for Feline Hyperthyroidism

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Harvey, A. M., A. Hibbert, et al. (2009). "Scintigraphic findings in 120 hyperthyroid cats." Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 11(2): 96-106.

The purpose of this study performed at the University of Bristol, United Kingdom, was to characterize the scintigraphic findings in a group of cats with hyperthyroidism to determine the location of the abnormal thyroid tissue. Thyroid scintigraphy relies on the selective uptake of a radionuclide by thyroid tissue. Hyperthyroidism is diagnosed by the increased level of uptake by the thyroid gland compared with salivary gland tissue. Thyroid scintigraphy also demonstrates the location of the abnormal thyroid tissue, which is useful when planning treatment options. The database of the Feline Centre at the University of Bristol was searched for cases of feline hyperthyroidism with good quality scintigraphic images between 1994 and 2007. Images from 120 cats were evaluated. Almost 1 in 5 hyperthyroid cats was found to have multiple areas of abnormal thyroid tissue and/or intrathoracic thyroid tissue where surgical thyroidectomy would not be curative. Another finding was that scintigraphy could not reliably differentiate between thyroid carcinoma and adenoma. The authors conclude that the possible presence of ectopic thyroid tissue should be discussed with all owners of hyperthyroid cats prior to performing surgical thyroidectomy. [SL]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Henrikson, T. D., L. J. Armbrust, et al. (2005). "Thyroid to salivary ratios determined by technetium-99m pertechnetate imaging in thirty-two euthyroid cats." Vet Radiol Ultrasound 46(6): 521-3.
>> PubMed Abstract

Naan, E. C., J. Kirpensteijn, et al. (2006). "Results of thyroidectomy in 101 cats with hyperthyroidism." Vet Surg 35(3): 287-93.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Treatment of Ringworm in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Mancianti, F., S. Dabizzi, et al. (2009). "A lufenuron pre-treatment may enhance the effects of enilconazole or griseofulvin in feline dermatophytosis?" Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 11(2): 91-95.

In this study performed at the University of Pisa, Italy, the effect of pre-treatment with lufenuron on the effectiveness of enilconazole or griseofulvin for the treatment of feline ringworm was studied. Ringworm in cats is most commonly caused by the fungal agent, Microsoporum canis. A variety of treatment options have been recommended over the years, including both topical and systemic drugs. Lufenuron is a drug that interferes with chitin synthesis and is most commonly used to prevent flea infestations. It has also been proposed as an alternative treatment for ringworm, but with highly variable results when used as a sole agent. Lufenuron was given at 100 mg/kg biweekly for 8 weeks to 38 M. canis infected cats. Group A cats (13) were only treated with lufenuron. In Group B, 11 cats were pre-treated with lufenuron, and then treated with four weekly rinses of enilconazole (0.2% solution). In Group C, 14 cats were pre-treated with lufenuron, and then treated with oral griseofulvin at 50 mg/kg twice daily for 40 days. Twelve cats were used as controls in that they were given griseofulvin (7 cats) or enilconazole (5 cats), but not lufenuron. All cats except one given lufenuron alone were still infected at day 60. The authors conclude that lufenuron alone was found to be ineffective, but may have an immunomodulatory effect as a pre-treatment combined with other drugs. [SL]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Nuttall, T. J., A. J. German, et al. (2008). "Successful resolution of dermatophyte mycetoma following terbinafine treatment in two cats." Veterinary Dermatology 19(6): 405-410.
>> PubMed Abstract

Sharma, R., S. de Hoog, et al. (2007). "A virulent genotype of Microsporum canis is responsible for the majority of human infections." J Med Microbiol 56(10): 1377-85.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Feline Vaccine-Associated Sarcoma Treatment

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Eckstein, C., F. Guscetti, et al. (2009). "A retrospective analysis of radiation therapy for the treatment of feline vaccine-associated sarcoma." Vet Comp Oncol 7(1): 54-68.

Feline vaccine-associated sarcomas occur in about 1 in 10,000 vaccinated cats, comprise about 40% of all skin tumors, and are the most frequent skin tumor in cats. These tumors are highly invasive and rapidly growing. This study, among other goals, examined the effect of curative radiation treatment on survival time after surgery. Curative treatment (higher dosages, more frequent administration) did improve outcome. Cats with a poorer prognosis and given reduced radiation therapy benefited from the addition of chemotherapy by increased survival time. Both protocols are legitimate options for vaccine-associated sarcomas. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Kass, P. H., W. L. Spangler, et al. (2003). "Multicenter case-control study of risk factors associated with development of vaccine-associated sarcomas in cats." J Am Vet Med Assoc 223(9): 1283-92.
>> PubMed Abstract

Romanelli, G., L. Marconato, et al. (2008). "Analysis of prognostic factors associated with injection-site sarcomas in cats: 57 cases (2001-2007)." J Am Vet Med Assoc 232(8): 1193-9.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Treatment of Feline Mammary Cancer

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Fri, 29 May 2009 12:00:00 +0000

McNeill, C. J., K. U. Sorenmo, et al. (2009). "Evaluation of adjuvant doxorubicin-based chemotherapy for the treatment of feline mammary carcinoma." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 23(1): 123-129.

Mammary carcinoma is the third most common cancer of cats. Female cats with a mean age of 10 to 12 years are primarily affected and approximately 90% of mammary tumors are malignant. Mammary tumors are characterized by local invasion into vasculature and surrounding tissues along with metastasis to distant locations such as draining lymph nodes, lungs, and other sites. A retrospective study was performed to evaluate whether adjuvant doxorubicin-based chemotherapy improved outcomes for cats with mammary carcinoma (MC) compared with surgery alone. Seventy-three cats with naturally occurring, biopsy-confirmed MC were included in the study. The surgery alone group contained 37 cats and 36 cats were in the surgery plus chemotherapy group (adjuvant doxorubicin-based chemotherapy). Median disease free survival and overall survival times were compared between groups. This study did not find a benefit to adjuvant doxorubicin-based chemotherapy in cats with MC. Additional studies are recommended to determine whether certain patients with negative prognostic factors (e.g., tumor size at time of surgical intervention) may benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related Articles:
Overley, B., F. S. Shofer, et al. (2005). "Association between ovarihysterectomy and feline mammary carcinoma." J Vet Intern Med 19(4): 560-3.
>> PubMed Abstract

Viste, J. R., S. L. Myers, et al. (2002). "Feline mammary adenocarcinoma: tumor size as a prognostic indicator." Can Vet J 43(1): 33-7.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Deafness in White Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Wed, 27 May 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Cvejic, D., T. A. Steinberg, et al. (2009). "Unilateral and bilateral congenital sensorineural deafness in client-owned pure-breed white cats." J Vet Intern Med 23(2): 392-395.

Congenital deafness in white cats is well known. However, studies of the prevalence among purebred white cats have not been done. This study was performed at the Ludwig Maximilian University, Germany and the University of California, Davis and examined 84 client-owned pure breed white cats for hearing loss (31 British Shorthair, 14 Maine Coon, 11 Turkish Angora, 9 Persian, 6 Foreign White, 6 Norwegian Forest, 4 Highlander, 1 Balinese, 1 Devon Rex, and 1 Oriental Shorthair). Hearing was evaluated using click-evoked brainstem auditory evoked response. Overall, about 20% of the cats had hearing loss in either one, or both ears. In addition, blue-eyed cats were more likely to have hearing loss than cats of other eye colors. While this study does not represent a population cross-section, nor breed evaluation, and prevalence rates were not compared to non-white cats, these findings do support the conclusion that deafness among pure-breed white cats occurs as it does with mixed breed white cats. Neither the mechanism of inheritance nor the genetic basis for the condition is completely understood. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Geigy, C. A., S. Heid, et al. (2007). "Does a pleiotropic gene explain deafness and blue irises in white cats?" Vet J 173(3): 548-53.
>> PubMed Abstract

Ryugo, D. K., H. B. Cahill, et al. (2003). "Separate forms of pathology in the cochlea of congenitally deaf white cats." Hear Res 181(1-2): 73-84.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Bacterial Peritonitis in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 25 May 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Culp, W. T., T. E. Zeldis, et al. (2009). "Primary bacterial peritonitis in dogs and cats: 24 cases (1990-2006)." J Am Vet Med Assoc 234(7): 906-13.

This retrospective study was performed to determine the clinical characteristics of primary bacterial peritonitis and to compare the characteristics of primary and secondary peritonitis in dogs and cats. Primary peritonitis is defined as an infection of the peritoneal cavity with no identifiable intraperitoneal source of infection or history of a peritoneal penetrating injury. Secondary peritonitis cases were identified by use of the first criteria and also had a confirmed source of bacterial leakage identified either during surgery or at necropsy. Nine cats met the inclusion criteria for primary peritonitis and 11 cats met the inclusion criteria for secondary peritonitis. The most common historical findings in cats with primary and secondary peritonitis were anorexia, lethargy, and vomiting. Weight loss was an additional common finding with secondary peritonitis in cats. Significantly more cats had tachypnea, pain on abdominal palpation, and abdominal distention with primary peritonitis than the secondary form. Additionally, significantly more cats with primary peritonitis had hypoproteinemia and hypoalbuminemia than did cats with secondary peritonitis. Three types of bacteria were cultured from the peritoneal cavity of cats, including E. coli, Clostridium spp. and Streptococcus spp. The majority of cultures of primary and secondary peritonitis in cats were monobacterial. There was no significant difference in outcome detected between animals with primary versus secondary peritonitis. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Ludwig, L. L., M. A. McLoughlin, et al. (1997). "Surgical treatment of bile peritonitis in 24 dogs and 2 cats: a retrospective study (1987-1994)." Vet Surg 26(2): 90-8.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Esophageal Damage From a Hairball

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Fri, 22 May 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Durocher, L., S. E. Johnson, et al. (2009). "Esophageal diverticulum associated with a trichobezoar in a cat." J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 45(3): 142-146.

This report describes an unusual case of esophageal obstruction and subsequent esophageal diverticulum in a 9-year old, neutered male domestic longhair cat associated with a hairball (trichobezoar). The patient was originally diagnosed with esophageal obstruction secondary to a hairball, and the hairball was removed endoscopically. Nine months later, the cat presented for persistent regurgitation. Contrast radiography with fluoroscopy revealed an esophageal diverticulum at the thoracic inlet with decreased esophageal motility distal to the diverticulum. Esophagostomy revealed the presence of a hairball within the diverticulum that was removed. With medical therapy and a canned diet, the cat did well for 2 months until it died suddenly. [SL]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Owen, M. C., P. J. Morris, et al. (2005). "Concurrent gastro-oesophageal intussusception, trichobezoar and hiatal hernia in a cat." N Z Vet J 53(5): 371-4.
>> PubMed Abstract

Barrs, V. R., J. A. Beatty, et al. (1999). "Intestinal obstruction by trichobezoars in five cats." J Feline Med Surg 1(4): 199-207.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Diabetes in Australian Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Wed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Lederer, R., J. S. Rand, et al. (2009). "Frequency of feline diabetes mellitus and breed predisposition in domestic cats in Australia." Vet J 179(2): 254-8.

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in cats seen at two large cat clinics in Brisbane, Australia over a 5 year period was evaluated. Data was analyzed by comparing diagnosis among Burmese as compared to domestic short- and long-haired cats, and between males and females. Ninety-three of 12,576 cats seen at the clinic were diagnosed with diabetes, giving a 5-year period prevalence of 7.4 per 1000 cats. Burmese cats in this population were three times more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than other cats. In addition, males were more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than females. Interestingly, Burmese cats were two years older on average at the time of diagnosis than the short- or long-haired cats. The underlying mechanism predisposing Burmese cats in Australia to diabetes mellitus is not known, but may be related to elevated amounts of lipids (e.g. triglycerides) in the blood, and inherited disorders of Burmese in Australia. [MK]
>>PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Rand, J., L. Bobbermien, et al. (1997). "Over representation of Burmese cats with diabetes mellitus." Aust Vet J 75(6): 402-405.
>> PubMed Abstract

McCann, T. M., K. E. Simpson, et al. (2007). "Feline diabetes mellitus in the UK: the prevalence within an insured cat population and a questionnaire-based putative risk factor analysis." J Feline Med Surg 9(4): 289-99.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Skin Lesions Associated with FIP

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 18 May 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Declercq, J., H. De Bosschere, et al. (2008). "Papular cutaneous lesions in a cat associated with feline infectious peritonitis." Vet Dermatol 19(5): 255-8.

This paper describes unusual lesions associated with a case of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)– slightly raised intradermal papules that were not painful nor itchy. The 7 month old intact male domestic shorthair cat also had other indicators of FIP, such as fever, anterior uveitis, respiratory distress, and kidney abnormalities. The skin lesions were on the neck and thorax and difficult to see in these haired areas. Histopathologic analysis of these lesions along with immunohistochemistry revealed typical FIP lesions. If detected early in the disease process, analysis of similar skin lesions may help provide a diagnosis. [MK]
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Related articles:
Cannon, M. J., M. A. Silkstone, et al. (2005). "Cutaneous lesions associated with coronavirus-induced vasculitis in a cat with feline infectious peritonitis and concurrent feline immunodeficiency virus infection." J Feline Med Surg 7(4): 233-6.
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FeLV Shedding in Feces

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Fri, 15 May 2009 17:05:00 +0000

Gomes-Keller, M. A., E. Gonczi, et al. (2009). "Fecal shedding of infectious feline leukemia virus and its nucleic acids: a transmission potential." Vet Microbiol 134(3-4): 208-17.

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is an important pathogen of cats that is associated with cancer and immunodeficiency. Transmission of the virus occurs primarily via saliva. These investigators examined fecal shedding of the virus by testing for viral RNA and DNA, as well as by virus cultivation from rectal swabs of infected cats. They found that cats testing positive using common in-clinic test kits for FeLV antigen also shed virus in feces, and the majority of them were infectious to other cats. None of these FeLV-shedding cats showed any gastrointestinal signs of disease. However, it appears that the viral load in feces is small, and while it did lead to exposure and antibody production against the virus in uninfected cats in contact with virus-positive feces, these cats did not become antigen-positive on in-clinic test kits. Viral genetic material was found in tissues from a minority of these exposed cats, indicating transmission via feces is possible. While secondary to saliva as a means of virus spread, these results indicate that sharing of litter pans between infected and susceptible cats does bear some risk for transmission of FeLV. [MK]
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Related articles:
Gomes-Keller, M. A., R. Tandon, et al. (2006). "Shedding of feline leukemia virus RNA in saliva is a consistent feature in viremic cats." Vet Microbiol 112(1): 11-21.
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Levy, J., C. Crawford, et al. (2008). "2008 American Association of Feline Practitioners' feline retrovirus management guidelines." Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 10(3): 300-316.
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Spinal Cord Disease in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Wed, 13 May 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Gonçalves R, Platt SR, Llabrés-Díaz FJ, et al. Clinical and magnetic resonance imaging findings in 92 cats with clinical signs of spinal cord disease. Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 2009;11:53-59.

Spinal cord disease is a diagnostic challenge in cats. As well, no antemortem studies on the relative frequency of the different etiologies responsible for feline spinal cord disease, such as lymphoma, feline infectious peritonitis, and intervertebral disc disease, exist in the literature. MRI is a noninvasive tool that represents the method of choice for imaging the spinal cord in human patients. The objectives of this study were to determine the frequency of an abnormal MRI in cats with clinical signs of spinal cord disease; to examine the relationship between the patient’s clinical characteristics and MRI findings; to identify potential predictors of a poor outcome and to investigate the outcome of cats with a normal MRI study. The authors reviewed the medical records of 92 cats with spinal cord disease that had undergone an MRI study. Seven diagnostic categories were determined on the basis of MRI and other findings: neoplastic (25 cats), inflammatory or infectious (13), traumatic (8), vascular (6), degenerative (5), anomalous (3), and those cats with a normal MRI study (32). The most important predictors of an abnormal MRI study were the presence of spinal pain and the severity of clinical signs. Of the 32 cats with a normal MRI study, only 9 died due to spinal disease. Of the 60 cats with abnormal MRI findings, 37 died due to their disease. [SL]
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Negrin A, Schatzberg S, Platt SR. The paralyzed cat. Neuroanatomic diagnosis and specific spinal cord diseases. J Feline Med Surg 2009;11:361-372.
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Harris JE, Dhupa S. Lumbosacral intervertebral disk disease in six cats. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2008;44:109-115.
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Tritrichomonas Diarrhea in Cats

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

Stockdale HD, Givens MD, Dykstra CC, et al. Tritrichomonas foetus infections in surveyed pet cats. Vet Parasitol 2009;160:13-17.

Tritrichomonas foetus causes chronic large bowel diarrhea in cats associated with blood or mucus, flatulence, tenesmus, vomiting, weight loss, and anal irritation. Most reports in the literature are since 1996. The objective of this was to estimate the prevalence of T. foetus in pet cats across the United States. Fecal samples from 173 cats across the U.S. were submitted by veterinarians. Thirty-two pedigreed cats were represented. In this study population, 10% of the cats were positive for T. foetus. All positive cats had chronic large bowel diarrhea. There was no correlation between breed or gender and infection with T. foetus. Other enteric pathogens, such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, were present in nine of the 17 positive cats. The results of this study suggest that trichomoniasis is a disease of younger male and female cats of all breeds. [SL]
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Related articles:
Gunn-Moore DA, McCann TM, Reed N, et al. Prevalence of Tritrichomonas foetus infection in cats with diarrhoea in the UK. J Feline Med Surg 2007;9:214-218.
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Gookin JL, Copple CN, Papich MG, et al. Efficacy of ronidazole for treatment of feline Tritrichomonas foetus infection. J Vet Intern Med 2006;20:536-543.
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Portal Vein Thrombosis in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Thu, 07 May 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Rogers, C. L., T. E. O'Toole, et al. (2008). "Portal vein thrombosis in cats: 6 cases (2001-2006)." J Vet Intern Med 22(2): 282-7.

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) refers to development of thrombi within the hepatic portal venous system. All 6 cats in this case series diagnosed with PVT also had concurrent liver disease. Three of the six cats had evidence of congenital portosystemic shunt. Such local disease conditions as neoplasia and inflammation of the liver and pancreas are also risk factors. Presenting clinical signs included lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, ptyalism, dyspnea, abdominal distension, and acute collapse. The major physical examination finding was abdominal pain. Ultrasonographic examination found an abnormal echogenic structure presumed to be thrombus within the portal vein in 5 cats. Five cats received anticoagulation therapy with the majority treated with low molecular weight heparin (dalteparin). With low numbers treated and inconsistent response, continued studies would be needed to determine the efficacy of low molecular weight heparin in treating feline PVT. In conclusion, PVT is a recognized clinical entity in cats and appears to be associated with concurrent hepatic disease. [VT]
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Related articles:
Lamb, C. R. (1998). "Ultrasonography of portosystemic shunts in dogs and cats." Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 28(4): 725-53.
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Thyroid Carcinoma in Cats

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Mon, 04 May 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Hibbert, A., T. Gruffydd-Jones, et al. (2009). "Feline thyroid carcinoma: diagnosis and response to high-dose radioactive iodine treatment." Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 11(2): 116-124.

Thyroid carcinoma is considered to be the cause of hyperthyroidism in 1 to 3% of hyperthyroid cats. Eight cats were included in the study based on pre-mortem histopathologic diagnosis of thyroid carcinoma, scintigraphic evaluation, and sole treatment with high-dose radioiodine. Scintigraphic findings were variable and could not distinguish whether the thyroid tissue was malignant. In all cases, histopathology confirmed malignancy, and the authors recommend histopathology should be done in every case of thyroid surgery. Successful treatment of carcinomas with radioiodine requires ablative doses three- to 10-fold higher than those used for thyroid adenoma. High-dose radioiodine was well tolerated in this group of cats and none of the cats developed clinical hypothyroidism after treatment. The study indicated that the prognosis for cats with thyroid carcinoma and treated with high-dose radioiodine is good, and extended survival times are common. [VT]
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Related articles:
Barber, L. G. (2007). "Thyroid tumors in dogs and cats." Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 37(4): 755-73, vii.
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Peterson, M. E. (2006). "Radioiodine treatment of hyperthyroidism." Clin Tech Small Anim Pract 21(1): 34-9.
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Demographics of Cats in the U.S.

winn@winnfelinehealth.org (Winn Feline Foundation) — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Chu, K., W. M. Anderson, et al. (2009). "Population characteristics and neuter status of cats living in households in the United States." Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 234(8): 1023-1030.

The objective of this study was to document the neuter status and identify demographic characteristics of cats living in the United States using a cross-sectional, random-digit-dial telephone survey. During April and May of 2007, 1205 adults in the continental U.S. were contacted. About 32% of the respondents had at least one cat at the time of the survey, yielding an estimated population of over 82 million cats living in about 37 million U.S. households. Eighty percent of the cats were reported as neutered. Of the female cats, about 82% had been neutered before having any litters. Annual family income was the strongest predictor of whether cats in the household were neutered, with only 51% of cats in households with annual family incomes less than $35,000 being neutered. This study did not attempt to gather data on stray and feral cats which represent an important part of the U.S. cat population. [SL]
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Related articles:
Murray, J. K., M. A. Roberts, et al. (2009). "Survey of the characteristics of cats owned by households in the UK and factors affecting their neutered status." Vet Rec 164(5): 137-41.
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Levy, J. K., J. E. Woods, et al. (2003). "Number of unowned free-roaming cats in a college community in the southern United States and characteristics of community residents who feed them." J Am Vet Med Assoc 223(2): 202-5.
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