Evaluation of the nociception–antinociception balance using the Parasympathetic Tone Activity index in dogs anaesthetized for castration

ObjectiveTo evaluate the performance of the Parasympathetic Tone Activity (PTA) index in assessing the nociception–antinociception balance in anaesthetized dogs undergoing castration.Study designProspective clinical study.AnimalsA group of 22 healthy client-owned dogs.MethodsThe dogs underwent general anaesthesia, with continuous monitoring of mean and instantaneous PTA (PTAm, PTAi), mean arterial pressure and heart rate. The values of these variables were divided according to the occurrence or absence of a haemodynamic reaction (HDR) at different time points: during surgical preparation, cutaneous incision, testicles extraction, cutaneous suture, after fentanyl administration, and after dexmedetomidine administration during recovery. Data were collected initially and 1, 3 and 5 minutes after each time point. The performance of the dynamic variation of the PTA (ΔPTA) to predict HDR or its resolution within 3 or 5 minutes was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves analysis. A p value < 0.05 was considered significant.ResultsDuring HDR, a decrease in PTAi (–34% and –31%) and PTAm (–26% and –30%) occurred at 3 (p = 0.005; p = 0.004) and 5 minutes (p = 0.001), respectively. After fentanyl administration, a decrease in haemodynamic variables occurred with a 45% increase in PTAi (p = 0.004). The ROC curve analysis of pooled data of the ΔPTAi for the prediction of HDR within 3 minutes indicated an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.70 (p = 0.0016) (threshold value: –16%). After fentanyl administration, the ROC curve analysis of ΔPTAi for the prediction of resolution of HDR within 3 minutes indicated an AUC of 0.69 (threshold value: +12%).Conclusions and clinical relevanceThe PTAi appears to be an interesting tool to assess the nociception–antinociception balance. However, further studies with a variety of clinical scenarios and anaesthesia protocols are required to conclude on its performance.     

Intestinal parasites in dogs and cats from the district of Évora, Portugal

Intestinal parasites, both helminths and protozoa, are commonly found in domestic animals, and the possible transmission of enteric parasites from dogs and cats to humans may constitute a global potential health risk worldwide. In the present study, we analysed 148 stool samples from dogs (n=126) and cats (n=22) collected from animal shelters and veterinary clinics, in the district of évora, Portugal. Microscopic examination confirmed that Giardia was the most frequent parasite in the studied population (34/148; 23%). Other parasites such as Ancylostoma sp., Isospora spp., Toxocara, Trichuris spp., Toxascaris and Toxoplasma were also found. Furthermore, molecular characterization of Giardia duodenalis analysis targeting the small subunit ribosomal RNA (ssu-rRNA) was performed revealing the presence of host-specific (C and D) and zoonotic assemblages (A and B). This work points out to the importance of protozoan parasites in companion animals, and reanalyses the need for parasite prophylaxis.     

Molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis of ‘Candidatus Bartonella merieuxii’ in dogs and its effect on hematologic parameters

Emerging Bartonella spp. infection can result in clinical symptoms such as endocarditis in humans and animals. This study analyzed the genetic phylogeny of the Bartonella spp. circulating in Iranian dogs. Also, this is first study on the relationship of Bartonella spp. and haematological factors from dogs in Fars. Ninety-eight blood samples were collected from the dogs of Fars province, Iran. Two different PCRs targeting rpoB gene and ITS sequence of Bartonella spp., followed by sequencing were performed. In addition, CBC and the differential count of WBC were determined. The “prevalence” of Bartonella spp. was 12.2 % (95 % CI: 5.72–18.68 %) in this population and the sequences matched with a newly proposed species; ‘Candidatus Bartonella merieuxii’. A significant increase in WBC due to neutrophilia and decreased RBC, Hct, and Hb concentrations were detected in Bartonella spp. infected dogs. The close contact between humans and dogs, and the zoonosis potential of Candidatus Bartonella merieuxii, emphasize on the need for more studies on ‘Candidatus Bartonella merieuxii’.     

Anti-Müllerian hormone in dogs and cats reproduction

The anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a glycoprotein secreted by Sertoli cells in males and granulosa cells in females. It has first been determined in blood serum of dogs and cats by Place et al. in 2011 with the use of a human-based ELISA test. Meanwhile, different immunoassays have been validated for AMH determination in animals and a variety of studies have demonstrated the clinical significance of AMH. This review summarizes the current knowledge about AMH in dogs and cats and describes future opportunities for its diagnostic use.     

A review of the off-label use of selamectin (Stronghold?/Revolution?) in dogs and cats

Since its introduction approximately seven years ago, selamectin (Stronghold^®/Revolution^®, Pfizer Inc.) has been used off-label to treat a number of ecto- and endoparasite conditions in dogs and cats. It has been used as a successful prophylactic against Dirofilaria repens and as a treatment for Aelurostrongylus abstrusus in cats. It has also been used to treat notoedric mange, infestation with the nasal mite Pneumonyssoides caninum, Cheyletiella spp. and Neotrombicula autumnalis infestations and larval Cordylobia anthropophaga infection. However, to date attempts to treat generalised canine demodicosis have not been successful. In all cases, treatment was apparently well tolerated by the host.     

Intestinal parasites of dogs and cats in Australia: The veterinarian’s perspective and pet owner awareness

During a recent national study of intestinal parasites in dogs and cats in Australia, questionnaires were submitted to veterinarians and pet owners to evaluate from a veterinary and public health standpoint the veterinarians’ perception, awareness and knowledge of gastrointestinal parasites in their locality. The study included sourcing information with regard to commonly recommended deworming protocols. The awareness of pet owners regarding parasitic zoonoses and the degree of education provided to them by veterinarians was also determined.Very few veterinarians routinely discussed the zoonotic potential of pet parasites with clients but most recommended regular prophylactic administration of anthelmintics throughout a pet’s life. Some pet owners were unaware of the existence of zoonoses. It is possible that an overreliance on anthelmintics may have led to a certain complacency about the need to educate pet owners about the risks of zoonoses. Veterinarians are important educators in the community and it is important to evaluate their performance if improvements are to be made.     

Abnormal platelet activity in dogs and cats – impact and measurement

Abnormal platelet activity can either lead to bleeding tendencies or inappropriate thrombus formation and can occur secondarily to a wide variety of disease processes, with a range of clinical consequences and severity. This article will discuss the pathophysiology of platelet function abnormalities and consider a logical diagnostic approach applicable to veterinary practice. Recent advances in platelet function testing will then be discussed, with regards to detection of platelet dysfunction and tailoring of pharmacological manipulation. Although many of these tests are still confined to research or academic institutions, techniques for indirectly assessing platelet function are starting to become more widely available. Although we still require further research to develop guidelines for the use of these tests in clinical decision-making, the recent advances in this field are an exciting step forward in being able to detect and manage platelet dysfunction in both primary care and referral practice.     

Tick paralysis in dogs and cats in Australia: treatment and prevention deliverables from 100 years of research

This review of tick paralysis caused by Ixodes holocyclus in Australia addresses the question: What are the key discoveries that have enabled effective treatment and prevention of tick paralysis in dogs and cats? Critical examination of 100 years of literature reveals that arguably only three achievements have advanced treatment and prevention of tick paralysis in animals. First, the most significant treatment advance was the commercial availability of tick antiserum in the 1930s. Hyperimmune serum currently remains the only specific anti-paralysis tick therapy available to veterinarians in Australia. Second, advances in veterinary critical care have increased survival rates of the most severely affected dogs and cats. Critical care advancements have been enabled through specialised veterinary hospitals that can provide appropriate care 24 h a day, and advanced training of veterinarians, veterinary nurses and technicians. Third, perhaps that biggest advance of all in the last 100 years of research has been the commercial availability of the isooxazoline class of acaricidal preventatives in Australia specifically for I. holocyclus. This highly effective class of preventatives offers long duration of action, low cost, spot-on or oral formulations and a low rate of adverse reactions. Animal owners and veterinarians now have the most useful tool of all – a reliable preventative. This review reveals the key events in research over the last 100 years and the tortuous pathway to delivering better treatment and preventative options for this enigmatic Australian parasite.     

Preanaesthetic blood tests in cats and dogs older than 8 years: anaesthetists’ prediction and peri-anaesthetic changes

ObjectiveTo evaluate the anaesthetist’s ability to predict abnormalities in preanaesthetic blood test results obtained from cats and dogs older than 8 years and to describe the impact of these preanaesthetic blood test results on the American Society Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification, anaesthetic protocol and procedures.Study designObservational, prospective, clinical multi-centre study.AnimalsA total of 333 cats and dogs.MethodsAfter a clinical examination and review of the animal´s clinical history the anaesthetist completed the first part of a set of questions including ASA status and anticipated abnormalities in blood tests. After this, blood results were presented, and the anaesthetist completed the second part of the set of questions, including changes in ASA status or anaesthetic protocol, and procedure delay or cancellation. Preanaesthetic blood tests included: haematocrit, total proteins, electrolytes, glucose, lactate, urea and creatinine. Examiners were classified as senior clinicians, clinicians, anaesthesia residents or nurses, and interns. For statistical analysis, the chi-square test was used. A p value < 0.05 was considered significant.ResultsThe ASA status increased in three dogs and one cat (1.2%); in two of them abnormalities were not expected by the examiner. The anaesthetic protocol changed in seven animals (2.1%); the most common change related to fluid therapy. Anaesthesia was delayed in two dogs (0.6%) to administer intravenous fluid therapy. No cases were cancelled. Abnormalities were more commonly found [37 out of 58 assessments (approximately 64%)] when the anaesthetist predicted them compared to when they were unexpected [49 of 275 assessments (approximately 18%); p < 0.001].Conclusions and clinical relevanceRoutine non-targeted blood tests in cats and dogs older than 8 years led to few changes in the anaesthetic management, and anaesthetists correctly predicted blood test results in most cases.     

Can heartworm prevalence in dogs be used as provisional data for assessing the prevalence of the infection in cats?

Cats are considered a susceptible host for Dirofilaria immitis; however, increased host resistance is reflected by relatively low adult worm burdens in natural and experimental infections; the prolonged prepatent period (8 months); the low level and short duration of microfilaremia; and the short life span of adult worms (2-3 years). From April to September 2006, 212 cats and 608 dogs, all exposed for at least one transmission season, were screened for D. immitis infection in a multi-center study in the Po River Valley in northern Italy. Cats were initially evaluated by antibody testing; positive subjects were followed up by antigen testing and echocardiography (and necropsy if death occurred). The prevalence in dogs was 29% by a modified Knott test and antigen testing compared with a prevalence of 4.7% in cats by an antibody test; six of these infections (2.8%) were confirmed by the follow-up evaluations. This field study demonstrated that the prevalence of heartworm infection in cats in this area is within the expected limits of 9-18% of the prevalence in dogs. Antibody testing likely underestimates the real prevalence of D. immitis infection in cats. These results also emphasize the importance of preventive treatment in cats.     

Is there a link between bacteriuria and a reversible encephalopathy in dogs and cats?

Bacteriuria has been associated with abnormal neurological status in humans, especially geriatric patients. In this report, we review 11 cases (seven dogs and four cats) that suggest an association between bacteriuria and abnormal neurological status in veterinary medicine. These cases showed diffuse forebrain signs with or without brainstem signs, but primary brain disease was excluded by MRI and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Bacteriological culture of urine was positive in each animal and neurological deficits improved or resolved with initiation of antibiosis ± fluid therapy and levetiracetam. While further studies are needed to definitively confirm or refute the link between bacteriuria and a reversible encephalopathy, urine bacteriological culture should be considered in veterinary patients presented with acute onset forebrain neuro-anatomical localisation, even in the absence of clinical signs of lower urinary tract inflammation.     

Toxocara eggs shed by dogs and cats and their molecular and morphometric species-specific identification: is the finding of T. cati eggs shed by dogs of epidemiological relevance?

Intestinal infections with Toxocara cati and Toxocara canis in their definitive host (felids and canids, respectively) are diagnosed by egg identification in faeces using coproscopical techniques. The Toxocara species is assumed to comply with the species from which the examined faeces were obtained, i.e. T. cati in cats and T. canis in dogs. We isolated and measured Toxocara eggs from faecal samples of 36 cats and 35 dogs from Switzerland and identified the Toxocara species by PCR. Amongst the isolates originating from dogs, 24 (68.5%) were determined as T. canis and 11 (31.5%) as T. cati. In all samples originating from cats, only T. cati was identified. Based on PCR identification, eggs of T. canis (n=241) and T. cati (n=442) were measured, revealing statistically significant different (p<0.001) mean sizes of 62.3 by 72.7 μm for T. cati and 74.8 by 86.0 μm for T. canis eggs. Considering that coprophagy is not unusual for dogs, a considerable percentage of Toxocara infections coproscopically diagnosed in dogs, as well as assumptions on anthelminthic resistance in regularly treated dogs, might in fact relate to intestinal passages of eggs following the uptake of other animals' faeces.     

Comparison of the TONOVET Plus®, TonoVet®, and Tono-Pen Vet™ tonometers in normal cats and cats with glaucoma

Objectives

To determine the accuracy, precision, and clinical applicability of the ICare® TONOVET Plus (TVP) in cats.

Animals and Procedures

IOP readings obtained with the TVP were compared to values obtained concurrently with the original TONOVET (TV01) and Tono-Pen Vet™ (TP) in 12 normal cats (24 eyes) and 8 glaucomatous LTBP2-mutant cats (13 eyes) in vivo. Reproducibility of TVP readings was also assessed for three observers in the above cats. The anterior chambers of five different normal cat eyes were cannulated ex vivo. IOP was measured with the TVP, TV01, and TP at manometric IOPs ranging from 5 to 70 mmHg. Data were analyzed by linear regression, ANOVA and Bland–Altman plots. ANOVA was used to assess reproducibility of TVP readings obtained by different observers and an ANCOVA model controlled for variation of individual cats. p < .05 was considered significant.

Results

TVP values strongly correlated with TV01 values (y = 1.045x + 1.443, R² = .9667). The TP significantly underestimated IOP relative to the TVP and TV01, particularly at high IOP. IOP values obtained by 1 observer were significantly higher (~1 mmHg average) compared to the other 2 observers via ANCOVA analysis (p = .0006479 and p = .0203). Relative to manometry, the TVP and TV01 were significantly more accurate (p < .0001) and precise (p < .0070) than the TP in ex vivo eyes.

Conclusions

IOP readings obtained with the TVP and TV01 are broadly interchangeable between models and between observers, but subtle differences may be important in a research context. TP readings vastly underestimate high IOP in feline glaucoma.