Comparative studies on serum arginase and transaminases in hepatic necrosis in various species of domestic animals

Serum concentrations of arginase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) in dogs, cats, horses, cattle, sheep and pigs were determined before and after oral administration of CCl(4) at doses known to cause hepatic necrosis. Following CCl(4) administration, serum concentration of arginase and SGOT increased to a level of diagnostic significance in all animals. SGPT increased markedly in dogs and cats and marginally in 1 of 3 cattle and 2 of 3 pigs. In the surviving animals, the serum concentration of arginase returned to normal range much earlier than SGPT or SGOT. Based on the CCl(4) experimental toxicity results of this study, an elevated level of serum arginase would appear to be a reliable indicator of hepatic necrosis in both small and large animals whereas SGPT would be a reliable indicator of hepatic necrosis only in dogs and cats.     

Evaluation of the comparative efficacy of selamectin against flea (Ctenocephalides felis felis) infestations on dogs and cats in simulated home environments

The comparative efficacy of monthly administration of selamectin or lufenuron against Ctenocephalides felis felis on dogs and cats was evaluated over a 5-month period in flea-infested environments. Twenty-four dogs and 32 cats were randomly allocated to receiving a topical treatment with selamectin or an oral administration of tablets containing lufenuron/milbemycin oxime (for dogs) or lufenuron only (for cats). Each product was administered in accordance with the manufacturer's label recommendations. Eight dogs and four cats served as untreated sentinels. Treatments were administered on days 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120. Each animal received an application of 100 fleas on days -28 and -21, and then weekly applications of 20 fleas from days 91 through 147. Flea comb counts were performed on day -6, and every 2 weeks after day 0. From day 29 (dogs) or day 44 (cats) to day 150, geometric mean flea counts for selamectin were < or =0.4. Mean flea counts for animals assigned to treatment with selamectin were significantly lower (P=0.0001) than for animals assigned to treatment with lufenuron at all assessments after day 0.     

Efficacy of selamectin in the treatment and control of clinical signs of flea allergy dermatitis in dogs and cats experimentally infested with fleas

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether treatment with selamectin would reduce clinical signs of flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) in dogs and cats housed in flea-infested environments. DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial. ANIMALS: 22 dogs and 17 cats confirmed to have FAD. PROCEDURE: Animals were housed in carpeted pens capable of supporting the flea life cycle and infested with 100 fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) on days -13 and -2 and on alternate weeks with 10 to 20 fleas. On day 0, 11 dogs and 8 cats were treated with selamectin (6 mg/kg [2.7 mg/lb]). Dogs were retreated on day 30; cats were retreated on days 30 and 60. All animals were examined periodically for clinical signs of FAD. Flea counts were conducted at weekly intervals. RESULTS: Throughout the study, geometric mean flea counts exceeded 100 for control animals and were < or = 11 for selamectin-treated animals. Selamectin-treated cats had significant improvements in the severity of miliary lesions and scaling or crusting on days 42 and 84, compared with conditions on day -8, and in severity of excoriation on day 42. In contrast, control cats did not have any significant improvements in any of the clinical signs of FAD. Selamectin-treated dogs had significant improvements in all clinical signs on days 28 and 61, but in control dogs, severity of clinical signs of FAD was not significantly different from baseline severity at any time. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results suggest that topical administration of selamectin, even without the use of supplementary environmental control measures and with minimal therapeutic intervention, can reduce the severity of clinical signs of FAD in dogs and cats.     

Use of a hemoglobin-based oxygen-carrying solution in cats: 72 cases (1998-2000)

OBJECTIVE: To determine clinical features and outcome associated with use of a hemoglobin-based oxygen-carrying (HBOC) solution in cats. DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: 72 cats. PROCEDURE: Medical records of cats that received an HBOC solution were reviewed. RESULTS: The most common clinical signs and physical examination findings prior to infusion of the HBOC solution were associated with anemia; vomiting, neurologic signs, and respiratory abnormalities were also detected. The HBOC solution was given as a supportive measure in treatment of anemia in 70 cats, most often because compatible blood was not readily available. There were 80 separate HBOC solution infusion events (mean dose, 14.6 ml/kg [6.6 mg/lb]; mean rate of infusion, 4.8 ml/kg [2.2 ml/lb] per hour). Improvements in 37 of 43 of the more closely monitored cats included increased rectal temperature, blood hemoglobin concentration, blood pressure, appetite, and activity. Adverse events in 44 cats included pulmonary edema (n = 8), pleural effusion (21), mucous membrane discoloration (21), pigmenturia (11), vomiting (4), and neurologic abnormalities (4). Twenty-three cats were discharged from the hospital, and 49 cats died or were euthanatized. Necropsy examination of 23 cats did not reveal evidence of renal or hepatic toxicosis associated with HBOC administration. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Although administration of an HBOC solution may provide temporary support to anemic cats, the development of pulmonary edema or pleural effusion potentially associated with rapid infusion rate and large volume of infusion of the HBOC solution should be investigated further before use of the solution can be recommended in cats.     

Clinical signs, imaging features, neuropathology, and outcome in cats and dogs with central nervous system cryptococcosis from California

Background: Cryptococcus spp. is a fungal pathogen with a predilection for the central nervous system (CNS). Objectives: To compare the clinical, advanced imaging, and neuropathologic findings in dogs and cats with CNS cryptococcosis, and to evaluate outcome of treatment in these animals. Animals: Twenty‐six cats and 21 dogs with CNS cryptococcosis. Methods: Medical records were reviewed for clinical findings and results of CNS imaging. Archived cerebrospinal fluid and CNS tissue specimens were reviewed for pathology. Findings in cats were compared with those in dogs and the effects of variables on survival were determined by survival curve analysis. Results: When present, pain was localized to the cervical region in dogs and was generalized or localized to the thoracolumbar spine or pelvic limbs in cats. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were variable but correlated with CNS histopathological findings of meningitis, meningitis with gelatinous pseudocyst formation, and granulomatous mass lesions. Peripherally enhancing brain lesions were seen only in cats. Histopathologically, the inflammatory response was milder in cats compared with dogs. Remissions of ≥1 year occurred in 32% of treated animals. Altered mentation was associated with negative outcome. Glucocorticoid use after diagnosis was associated with improved survival in the first 10 days. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Lesions seen on MRI reflected neuropathological findings and were similar to those reported in human patients. The immune response to infection may differ between cats and dogs, or relate to the infecting cryptococcal species. Long‐term (>6 month median survival time) survival may be possible in animals surviving ≥4 days after diagnosis.     

Evaluation of freshwater submersion in small animals: 28 cases (1996-2006)

OBJECTIVE: To determine clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcome in dogs and cats evaluated after submersion in freshwater. DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: 25 dogs and 3 cats. PROCEDURES: Medical records were reviewed for signalment; causes, location, and month of submersion; physical examination findings at admission; results of blood gas analysis; treatments administered; duration of hospitalization; and outcome, including evidence of organ failure or compromise. RESULTS: All submersions involved bodies of freshwater. Fourteen animals were submerged in man-made water sources, 13 were submerged in natural water sources, and the body of water was not recorded in 1 case. Twenty (71%) submersions occurred from May through September. Cause was identified in 16 animals and included extraordinary circumstances (n = 6), falling into water (5), breaking through ice (3), and intentional submersion (2). Twelve animals were found submerged in water with unclear surrounding circumstances. Treatment included administration of supplemental oxygen, antimicrobials, furosemide, corticosteroids, and aminophylline and assisted ventilation. Respiratory dysfunction was detected in 21 animals. Neurologic dysfunction was detected in 12 animals, hepatocellular compromise was detected in 6 animals, and cardiovascular dysfunction was detected in 4 animals. Three dogs had hematologic dysfunction, and 2 dogs had acute renal dysfunction. Eighteen (64%) animals survived to hospital discharge, but all of the cats died. In 9 of 10 nonsurvivors, respiratory tract failure was the cause of death or reason for euthanasia. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results suggest that submersion is an uncommon reason for veterinary evaluation but is associated with a good prognosis in dogs in the absence of respiratory tract failure.     

Use of methyl methacrylate orbital prostheses in dogs and cats: 78 cases (1980-1986)

To prevent cosmetically undesirable orbital concavity after enucleation, methyl methacrylate spheres were implanted into the orbits of 73 dogs and 5 cats. In all cases, follow-up reports were obtained until suture removal 2 weeks after surgery, and for 58 animals (79%) until 6 months after surgery. Information was available for 46 animals (60%) 1 year after surgery, 28 animals (36%) 2 years after surgery, and 7 animals (9%) 3 years after surgery. Implants failed in 3 dogs and 2 cats. Complications were not detected in the remaining 73 animals (93%), and owners were pleased with the cosmetic results. The causes of implant failure in dogs varied; however, in cats, fluid accumulation was the consistent complication associated with failure. Orbital implantation of methyl methacrylate spheres was found to be a safe, practical, and inexpensive method of improving the cosmetic appearance of dogs requiring enucleation. Although the number of cats evaluated was limited, the accumulation of orbital fluid in a high percentage of those suggested that orbital implants may be less successful in this species.     

Effect of clomipramine on the electrocardiogram and serum thyroid concentrations of healthy cats

Clomipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) commonly used to treat anxiety related behavioral disorders in companion animals. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) have the potential to cause arrhythmias in humans and companion animals. The effect of the TCAs, clomipramine, and amitriptyline, at therapeutic dosages on cardiac rhythm has been evaluated in dogs. The effect of clomipramine on the cardiac rhythm of cats has not been reported. In Experiment 1, 7 healthy cats were selected to evaluate the effect of clomipramine on their cardiac rhythm using an electrocardiogram. A baseline electrocardiogram was carried out before (Day 0) and repeated (Day 29) after 4 weeks (28 days) of daily clomipramine (10 mg/cat PO) administration. Significant changes in the electrocardiogram were not found after 28 days of daily clomipramine administration. In Experiment 2, 7 healthy cats were enrolled in the study to evaluate the effect of clomipramine administration on the serum thyroid concentrations in cats. Clomipramine (10 mg/cat PO daily) was administered to all cats beginning on Day 1, and continued for 28 days. Serum total thyroxine (T₄), triiodothyronine (T₃), and free thyroxine (fT₄) concentrations were measured before (Day 0) and repeated (Day 29) after 4 weeks (28 days) of daily clomipramine administration. Statistically significant decreases in serum thyroid concentrations (T_4, T₃, and fT₄) were noted between pre and post clomipramine administration. A decrease of 25, 24, and 16% in serum T₄, T₃, and fT₄ concentrations, respectively, may lead to a misdiagnosis of euthyroidism in a subclinical hyperthyroid patient. A longer duration of drug treatment might further suppress thyroid function when used as a single agent, with concomitantly administered drugs, or in conjunction with euthyroid sick syndrome.     

Outcomes of cellophane banding for congenital portosystemic shunts in 106 dogs and 5 cats

OBJECTIVE : To report outcomes after cellophane banding of single congenital portosystemic shunts in dogs and cats. STUDY DESIGN : Retrospective study of sequential cases. ANIMALS : One hundred and six dogs and five cats. METHODS : Medical records were reviewed for breed, sex, age at surgery, shunt anatomy, results of pre- and postoperative biochemical analysis, development of postligation neurologic dysfunction, portal hypertension or other serious complications, and the owners' perception of their animal's response to surgery. RESULTS : Ninety-five dogs and all 5 cats had extrahepatic shunts. Eleven dogs had intrahepatic shunts. Six dogs (5.5%) died as a result of surgery from portal hypertension (2 dogs), postligation neurologic dysfunction (2), splenic hemorrhage (1) and suspected narcotic overdose (1). Serious complications were more common in dogs with intrahepatic shunts than those with extrahepatic shunts (P=.002). Postligation neurologic dysfunction necessitated treatment in 10 dogs and 1 cat; 8 dogs and the cat survived. Clinical signs attributed to portosystemic shunting resolved or were substantially attenuated in all survivors. Postoperative serum bile acid concentrations or results of ammonia tolerance testing were available for 88 animals; 74 (84%) were normal and 14 (16%) were abnormal. Multiple acquired shunts were documented in two animals. CONCLUSIONS : Cellophane banding is a safe and effective alternative to other methods of attenuation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE : Slow occlusion of portosystemic shunts using a variety of methods is being evaluated world wide. Cellophane banding is a relatively simple procedure with comparable safety and efficacy to previously reported techniques.     

Phase I clinical trial evaluating STI571 in tumor bearing cats

Introduction: STI571 (Gleevec, imatinib mesylate) is a receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor with selectivity for Bcr‐Abl, platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF), stem cell factor (SCF), and c‐Kit. Side effects with use in humans include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, myalgia, edema, and cutaneous reactions. Renal and hepatic toxicity have also been reported. In dogs, there is significant hepatic toxicity at sub‐clinical doses. The purpose of this prospective study was to determine the toxicity level and potential treatment protocol in tumor bearing cats. Methods: A phase I clinical trial was performed in client owned cats using an escalating dose of STI571 in tumor bearing cats. Cats included in the study had a histologic diagnosis of fibrosarcoma or other tumors and were staged with CBC, biochemical profile, thoracic radiographs, and abdominal ultrasound. None of the cats received concurrent chemotherapy, but those previously treated with surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, were not excluded. The initial starting dose was 5 mg/cat PO SID and was gradually increased to 10 and 20 mg/cat PO SID at a 2–6 week interval depending on laboratory work and disease progression. A repeat physical examination, CBC, and biochemical profile, were performed every 2 weeks for 2 rechecks, then every 4 weeks. Results: Six cats were enrolled in the study. Four cats had oral squamous cell carcinoma, and two cats had cutaneous fibrosarcoma. One cat demonstrated leukocytosis, increased liver enzymes, and signs of acute renal failure two weeks after initiating therapy (5 mg PO SID). No dose escalation was made in this cat. Five cats endured dose escalations of 10 mg PO SID in two cats and 20 mg PO SID in three cats and were treated for 2–4 months. None of these cats experienced any signs of toxicity as measured by CBC and biochemical profile. Conclusions: Only one cat experienced toxicity that may have been associated with low dose administration of STI571. As most cats tolerated the drug without an adverse effect, further evaluation of STI571 in a phase II clinical trial is warranted.     

Ileocolic junction resection in dogs and cats: 18 cases

There is limited veterinary literature about dogs or cats with ileocolic junction resection and its long-term follow-up. To evaluate the long-term outcome in a cohort of dogs and cats that underwent resection of the ileocolic junction without extensive (≥50%) small or large bowel resection. Medical records of dogs and cats that had the ileocolic junction resected were reviewed. Follow-up information was obtained either by telephone interview or e-mail correspondence with the referring veterinary surgeons. Nine dogs and nine cats were included. The most common cause of ileocolic junction resection was intussusception in dogs (5/9) and neoplasia in cats (6/9). Two dogs with ileocolic junction lymphoma died postoperatively. Only 2 of 15 animals, for which long-term follow-up information was available, had soft stools. However, three dogs with suspected chronic enteropathy required long-term treatment with hypoallergenic diets alone or in combination with medical treatment to avoid the development of diarrhoea. Four of 6 cats with ileocolic junction neoplasia were euthanised as a consequence of progressive disease. Dogs and cats undergoing ileocolic junction resection and surviving the perioperative period may have a good long-term outcome with mild or absent clinical signs but long-term medical management may be required.     

Susceptibility of domestic dogs and cats to Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV)

The susceptibility of cats and dogs to Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV; genotype VII) was investigated by intramuscular (IM) inoculation of 10(3.7)-10(5) 50% tissue culture infective doses (TCID(50)) of virus followed by observation of experimental animals for up to 3 months post-inoculation (pi). Each experiment also included positive and negative controls, animals inoculated with a bat variant of rabies virus (Eptesicus I, genotype I), or a 10% suspension of uninfected mouse brain, respectively. Each of the ABLV-inoculated cats showed occasional abnormal clinical signs, but none died. Necropsies performed at 3 months pi revealed no lesions, and no viral antigen, in the central nervous system of any cat. ABLV could not be recovered from any cats. However, rabies virus-neutralizing antibodies were detected between 4 and 14 weeks pi in the sera of all three ABLV-inoculated cats. At 2-3 weeks pi, three of the five ABLV-inoculated dogs showed very mild abnormal clinical signs that persisted for 1-2 days, after which the dogs recovered. At 3 months pi, when all dogs were necropsied, neither lesions nor ABLV antigen were detected in, and virus was not isolated from, any dog. No ABLV RNA was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in clinical or necropsy samples from the three ABLV-affected dogs. However, all ABLV-inoculated dogs seroconverted by 2 weeks pi, and serum antibody titres were higher than those observed in cats. CSF, collected at 3 months pi, was positive for rabies virus-neutralizing antibody in two ABLV-inoculated dogs.     

Hypersensitivity reactions associated with L-asparaginase administration in 142 dogs and 68 cats with lymphoid malignancies: 2007–2012

Clinically significant hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) to the chemotherapy drug L-asparaginase are reported in humans and dogs, but frequency in small animals is not well-defined. This study retrospectively evaluated the frequency of HSR to L-asparaginase given by IM injection to dogs and cats with lymphoid malignancies. The medical records of all dogs and cats treated with at least 1 dose of L-asparaginase chemotherapy over a 5-year period were reviewed. A total of 370 doses of L-asparaginase were administered to the dogs, with 88 of 142 dogs receiving multiple doses, and 6 dogs experiencing an HSR. A total of 197 doses were administered to the cats, with 33 of 68 cats receiving multiple doses, and no cats experiencing an HSR. Hypersensitivity reactions were documented in 4.2% of dogs, and in association with 1.6% of L-asparaginase doses administered. These results show that HSRs occur uncommonly among dogs and cats, even with repeated dosing.     

Minimally Invasive Inguinal Approach for Tube Cystostomy

Objective— To report a technique for tube cystostomy placement via a minimally invasive inguinal approach and outcome in 9 dogs and 6 cats with urinary tract obstruction or detrusor atony.
Study Design— Case series.
Animals— Dogs (n=9) and cats (6).
Methods— Medical records (January 2004–January 2008) of dogs and cats that had tube cystostomy via an inguinal approach were reviewed. Retrieved data included signalment, diagnosis, surgical technique, and complications. Access to the bladder was through a muscle splitting approach in the inguinal region with the cystostomy tube placed through a skin incision made several centimeters proximal to this incision and secured in the bladder by a purse string suture. Cystopexy during closure of the muscle layers ensured secure closure and minimized the likelihood of uroabdomen if tube dislodgment occurred.
Results— Cystostomy tubes were placed in 5 cats as an emergency procedure for treatment of acute urinary tract obstruction or urethral rupture, and as an elective procedure in 9 dogs and 1 cat. No complications occurred during cystostomy tube placement. Postprocedural complications were minor (peristomal irritation in 2 dogs with latex catheters, catheter laceration, premature removal) and only occurred when tubes were retained for >4 weeks. Urinary tract infection at catheter removal in 6 dogs resolved with antibiotic administration.
Conclusions— An inguinal approach for cystostomy tube placement facilitated rapid catheter placement into the bladder with minimal soft tissue dissection. Cystopexy during abdominal wall closure provided peritoneal protection should premature dislodgement of the cystostomy tube occur.
Clinical Relevance— An inguinal approach should be considered for rapid tube cystostomy particularly in metabolically compromised animals.     

Results of preemptive epidural administration of morphine with or without bupivacaine in dogs and cats undergoing surgery: 265 cases (1997-1999)

OBJECTIVE: To determine prevalence of adverse effects associated with epidural administration of morphine with or without bupivacaine in dogs and cats undergoing surgery and evaluate effects of epidural administration of morphine on postoperative pain severity. DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: 242 dogs and 23 cats. PROCEDURE: Morphine with or without bupivacaine was administered prior to surgery with a Tuohy needle, spinal needle, or epidural catheter. In 18 dogs that underwent surgery twice, results of preemptive epidural administration of morphine with or without bupivacaine were compared with results of systemic administration of oxymorphone and ketoprofen. RESULTS: The delivered fraction of isoflurane was significantly lower in animals given morphine and bupivacaine than in animals given morphine alone. Analgesia was of significantly longer duration in dogs given morphine and bupivacaine than in dogs given morphine alone. During anesthesia, mild respiratory and cardiovascular depression was reported. Seven dogs and 2 cats had urine retention, and 2 dogs developed pruritus. Six dogs vomited when a second dose of morphine was given epidurally the day after surgery. Eight of 72 dogs had delayed hair growth. In 18 dogs that underwent surgery twice, the delivered fraction of isoflurane was significantly lower and the duration of analgesia was significantly longer when morphine with or without bupivacaine was given epidurally than when oxymorphone and ketoprofen were given. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results suggest that preemptive epidural administration of morphine with or without bupivacaine is a safe and effective method of inducing long-lasting analgesia in dogs and cats and is superior to standard management of postoperative pain with repeated injection of oxymorphone and ketoprofen.     

Effect of the probiotic Enterococcus faecium SF68 on presence of diarrhea in cats and dogs housed in an animal shelter

Background: Beneficial effects of probiotics have never been analyzed in an animal shelter. Hypothesis: Dogs and cats housed in an animal shelter and administered a probiotic are less likely to have diarrhea of ≥2 days duration than untreated controls. Animals: Two hundred and seventeen cats and 182 dogs. Methods: Double blinded and placebo controlled. Shelter dogs and cats were housed in 2 separate rooms for each species. For 4 weeks, animals in 1 room for each species was fed Enterococcus faecium SF68 while animals in the other room were fed a placebo. After a 1‐week washout period, the treatments by room were switched and the study continued an additional 4 weeks. A standardized fecal score system was applied to feces from each animal every day by a blinded individual. Feces of animals with and without diarrhea were evaluated for enteric parasites. Data were analyzed by a generalized linear mixed model using a binomial distribution with treatment being a fixed effect and the room being a random effect. Results: The percentage of cats with diarrhea ≥2 days was significantly lower (P= .0297) in the probiotic group (7.4%) when compared with the placebo group (20.7%). Statistical differences between groups of dogs were not detected but diarrhea was uncommon in both groups of dogs during the study. Conclusion and Clinical Importance: Cats fed SF68 had fewer episodes of diarrhea of ≥2 days when compared with controls suggests the probiotic may have beneficial effects on the gastrointestinal tract.     

Prevention of experimentally induced heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) infections in dogs and cats with a single topical application of selamectin

In a series of six controlled studies (four in dogs, two in cats), heartworm-free dogs and cats were inoculated with Dirofilaria immitis larvae (L(3)) prior to topical treatment with the novel avermectin selamectin or a negative control containing inert formulation ingredients (vehicle). Selamectin and negative-control treatments were administered topically to the skin at the base of the neck in front of the scapulae. In dogs, selamectin was applied topically at dosages of 3 or 6mgkg(-1) at 30 days post-inoculation (PI), or of 3 or 6mgkg(-1) at 45 days PI, or of 6mgkg(-1) at 60 days PI. Cats were treated topically with unit doses providing a minimum dosage of 6mgkg(-1) selamectin at 30 days PI. Of the animals that were treated 30 days PI, some dogs were bathed with water or shampoo between 2 and 96h after treatment, and some cats were bathed with shampoo at 24h after treatment. Between 140 and 199 days PI, the animals were euthanized and examined for adult D. immitis. Adult heartworms developed in all control dogs (geometric mean count, 18.7 worms) and in 88% of control cats (geometric mean count, 2.1 worms). Selamectin was 100% effective in preventing heartworm development in dogs when administered as a single topical dose of 3 or 6mgkg(-1) at 30 days after infection, 3 or 6mgkg(-1) at 45 days after infection, or 6mgkg(-1) at 60 days after infection. Selamectin was 100% effective against heartworm infections in cats when administered as a single topical unit dose of 6mgkg(-1). Bathing with water or shampoo between 2 and 96h after treatment did not reduce the efficacy of selamectin as a heartworm prophylactic in dogs. Likewise, bathing with shampoo at 24h after treatment did not reduce the efficacy of selamectin in cats. These studies demonstrated that, at the recommended dosage and treatment interval, a single topical administration of selamectin was 100% effective in preventing the development of D. immitis in dogs and cats.     

Epidemiologic factors, clinical findings, and vaccination status of rabies in cats and dogs in the United States in 1988. National Study Group on Rabies

Despite the availability of rabies vaccination through private veterinarians and government-sponsored rabies control programs, rabies was reported in an average of 338 cats and dogs per year from 1980 through 1987 in the United States. Information was collected on 90% of the 183 cats and 97% of the 119 dogs that were reported to have rabies in the continental United States in 1988. The median age of rabid cats and dogs was 1 year, and 81% were from rural areas. Compared with rabid cats, rabid dogs were more likely to have been male (66 vs 42%, odds ratio = 2.6), to have been kept as pets (84 vs 43%, odds ratio = 6.8), and to have had reported contact with wildlife before onset of illness (38 vs 14%, odds ratio = 3.8). Rabid cats accounted for a greater proportion of human rabies postexposure prophylaxis, bites to people, and exposures to other animals than did rabid dogs. Although the clinical signs of rabies varied, rabid cats were more likely than dogs to have had aggressive behavior (55 vs 31%, odds ratio = 2.8). In contrast, rabid dogs were more likely than cats to have had an illness consistent with a paralytic process. The median period between onset of illness and death was 3 days (range, less than 1 to 10) in rabid cats and dogs that were allowed to die of rabies. Vaccine failures were documented in 3 (1%) rabid animals (2 cats and 1 dog). All animals had received only a single dose of vaccine in their lifetime and were vaccinated when they were between 3 and 6 months old.     

Surgical repair of deep melting ulcers with porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS) graft in dogs and cats

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of using a porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS) graft for the surgical repair of deep melting ulcers in dogs and cats. METHODS: Two cats and five dogs presented with deep and large melting ulcers of the cornea. In each case, the necrotic and collagenolytic tissue of the cornea was removed by keratectomy. A SIS graft, 1 mm greater than the corneal defect, was rehydrated in sterile saline and sutured to the edges of the ulcer with a simple interrupted pattern of 9/0 polyglactin 910. A nictitating membrane flap was utilized in two cats and four dogs for 2 weeks. All cases were treated postoperatively with topical and systemic antibiotics, a systemic anti-inflammatory drug and topical atropine. All animals were re-evaluated 15 days, 4 weeks, 35-45 days, 2-3 months and 6 months postsurgery. RESULTS: At 15 days postsurgery, a superficial intense corneal neovascularization surrounded the SIS graft. No ocular discomfort was present and fluorescein staining was negative in all cases. At 4 weeks the SIS graft was thick and opaque in all cases, although in one cat the SIS graft had partially detached. Between 35 and 45 days, SIS graft integration was evident in all eyes, and corneal neovascularization had decreased progressively. All eyes healed without complications and retained corneal transparency. This occurred even in the presence of corneal perforation in two cases: one prior to and one during surgery. CONCLUSION: Results of our study suggest the SIS graft may be an effective alternative surgical treatment to the traditional conjunctival grafts commonly used to repair melting ulcers in dogs and cats. The advantages of using a SIS graft include good corneal transparency, preservation of corneal integrity and maintenance of vision.     

Use of lufenuron for treating fungal infections of dogs and cats: 297 cases (1997-1999)

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate use of lufenuron for treating cutaneous fungal infections in dogs and cats. DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: 156 dogs and 201 cats with dermatophytosis or superficial dermatomycoses. PROCEDURE: Medical records were reviewed for dogs and cats that had been treated for dermatophytosis or other fungal infections by administration of lufenuron and 18 dogs and 42 cats that were not treated and served as a control group. RESULTS: Dogs were treated once by oral administration of lufenuron tablets at doses ranging from 54.2 to 68.3 mg/kg (24.6 to 31.0 mg/lb) of body weight. Samples of skin, scrapings, and hair were obtained daily from 14 dogs with dermatophytosis; mean durations from time of treatment to time of negative fungal culture results and resolution of gross lesions were 14.5 and 20.75 days, respectively. In all treated dogs, gross lesions resolved within approximately 21 days. Cats were treated once by oral administration of lufenuron suspension in doses ranging from 51.2 to 266 mg/kg (23.3 to 120.9 mg/lb). Samples were obtained daily from 23 cats; mean durations from time of treatment to time of negative fungal culture results and resolution of gross lesions were 8.3 and 12 days, respectively. Time to resolution of lesions in most untreated control animals was approximately 90 days. Adverse effects of treatment were not detected. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results of this study suggest that lufenuron provides an effective, convenient, and rapid method for treating fungal infections in dogs and cats.