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Diagnostic Research, Epidemiology and New Therapeutic Options in Companion and Wild Animals: 2nd Edition

A Special Issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615) belonging to the section "Veterinary Clinical Studies".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 March 2027 | Viewed by 13193

Editor

Dr. Felisbina Luisa Queiroga

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás–os–Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
2. Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
3. Center for the Study of Animal Sciences of the Institute of Sciences, Technologies and Agro-Environment of the University of Porto, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
Interests: clinical oncology; clinical trials; comparative oncology; veterinary oncology; biomarkers; therapeutic targets; breast cancer; serum cancer markers; anticancer therapies; clinical pathology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Following the success of the first edition, we are pleased to announce the 2nd Edition of the Special Issue "Diagnostic Research, Epidemiology and New Therapeutic Options in Companion and Wild Animals". This new edition aims to further explore recent advances in the diagnosis, epidemiology, and treatment of animal diseases, incorporating innovative technologies and methodologies that will shape the future of veterinary medicine.

In companion animals, regarding diagnoses, we have been witnessing not only a refinement of conventional techniques but also the development of less invasive procedures, allowing for safe, effective, and quick diagnoses associated with low morbidity. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into veterinary diagnostics is transforming the field, particularly in medical imaging, histopathology, and predictive analytics. AI-driven algorithms are enhancing diagnostic accuracy, enabling earlier disease detection, and improving clinical decision-making. The evaluation of new biomarkers and the advancement of molecular techniques have also contributed to novel insights into neoplastic and infectious diseases.

In line with diagnostic and therapeutic advancements in companion animals, epidemiological studies have been encouraged in both companion and wild species, whether globally distributed or endemic to specific geographic regions. These studies are essential for understanding affected populations, identifying risk factors, mapping transmission routes, and determining disease prevalence and incidence. Additionally, given that animals share ecosystems with humans, epidemiological data—particularly regarding zoonoses—are critical for public health.

The 2nd Edition of this Special Issue aims to present relevant scientific contributions in the form of original research or review articles focusing on epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of animal diseases. We especially encourage submissions exploring AI-driven diagnostic and therapeutic innovations, as well as AI-assisted epidemiological analysis. Topics may include, but are not limited to, applications of AI in veterinary imaging and pathology, seroprevalence studies, performance analysis of diagnostic techniques, minimally invasive procedures, prognostic studies, and research on treatment outcomes. Articles addressing both companion and wild animals are welcome.

Dr. Felisbina Luisa Queiroga
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-anonymized peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Animals is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnostics
  • minimally invasive procedures
  • biomarkers and prognostic factors
  • epidemiology of infectious and neoplastic diseases
  • AI-driven predictive models in treatment
  • companion and wild animal diseases
  • one health and zoonoses
  • diagnostic imaging and histopathology
  • molecular techniques in veterinary medicine
  • new therapeutic approaches (immunotherapy, gene therapy, hormone therapy)

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 3777 KB  
Article
Computer Simulation of Tooth Wear in Giant Pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca): Quantitative Predictions for Captive Health Management
by Fuhao Chen, Yichao Yang, Xiaogang Shi, Xixuan Zhang, Yue Zou, Ti Li, Panyan Yang, Yuanyuan Qu, Hongqiang Lin, Jiangwei Xiang, Zhijun Zhong, Guangneng Peng, Kun Zhang, Quan Mo, Haifeng Liu, Chengdong Wang and Ziyao Zhou
Animals 2026, 16(14), 2273; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16142273 - 22 Jul 2026
Viewed by 520
Abstract
Tooth wear is a major health and welfare issue for captive giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), but quantitative data on wear progression across different tooth types and chewing behaviors are lacking. In this study, a two-dimensional computer simulation (Processing, Java-based) was developed [...] Read more.
Tooth wear is a major health and welfare issue for captive giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), but quantitative data on wear progression across different tooth types and chewing behaviors are lacking. In this study, a two-dimensional computer simulation (Processing, Java-based) was developed to model wear of giant panda canine, second premolar, and second molar teeth under two bamboo-chewing orientations (horizontal vs. vertical). Species-specific enamel hardness (344 HV), bite forces (canine: 1030 N; premolar: 1142 N; molar: 2005 N), and a stochastic chewing cycle were incorporated into the simulation. The results showed that canine wear was faster during horizontal chewing (45.68 pixel layers/100 cycles) than during vertical chewing (36.76 pixel layers/100 cycles), while premolar and molar wear were faster during vertical chewing (34.24 and 51.52 pixel layers/100 cycles, respectively) compared to horizontal chewing (10.28 and 39.40 pixel layers/100 cycles). Molars exhibited the highest overall wear rate. The predicted functional lifespan was estimated to be 47~55 years for canines; 19~34 years for premolars; and 23~29 years for molars. This study provides the first quantitative, cycle-by-cycle wear progression model for giant panda teeth. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Research, Epidemiology and New Therapeutic Options in Companion and Wild Animals: 2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 2907 KB  
Article
First Description of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Phenotype in Apparently Healthy Cats in Morocco: An Echocardiographic Prevalence Study
by Hanaa El Atmani, Faouzi Kichou, Alberto Tarducci, Rahma Azrib and Mohammed Piro
Animals 2026, 16(12), 1802; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16121802 - 11 Jun 2026
Viewed by 552
Abstract
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Phenotype (HCM-Ph) is the most common group of myocardial disorders in cats. It has been the subject of research worldwide with prevalence rates ranging from 8% to 34%. However, there is no data available on its occurrence in Morocco. This study [...] Read more.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Phenotype (HCM-Ph) is the most common group of myocardial disorders in cats. It has been the subject of research worldwide with prevalence rates ranging from 8% to 34%. However, there is no data available on its occurrence in Morocco. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of HCM-Ph in apparently healthy cats in Morocco, describe the epidemiological and echocardiographic findings of affected cats and to compare patients in ACVIM stages B1 and B2. A total of 81 apparently healthy cats underwent echocardiographic screening. The overall prevalence of HCM-Ph was 9.88% (95% CI: 4.36–18.54%). The median age was four years (IQR 3.5–5.5) and a male overrepresentation (75%) was noted. Affected cats exhibited various echocardiographic patterns of left ventricular hypertrophy, normal left ventricular diameters, preserved fractional shortening and different degrees of left atrial enlargement. Cats in B2 stage were older and had more myocardial hypertrophy compared to cats in B1 stage, highlighting the potential role of wall thickness in clinical staging and risk assessment. Subclinical HCM-Ph is relatively common in apparently healthy cats in Morocco. Veterinarians should be aware of its clinical importance, as despite the fact that it presents no clinical signs, it can have fatal cardiovascular outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Research, Epidemiology and New Therapeutic Options in Companion and Wild Animals: 2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 942 KB  
Article
Association Study on Risk Factors for Major Infectious Diseases in Dogs and Cats in Shenzhen, China
by Yao Peng, Runchang Lin, Wanxing Xie, Rongjie Huang, Shunping Cai, Yinyi Liang, Qida Lin, Gen Li, Xiaofeng Guo, Bowen Lin and Jun Luo
Animals 2026, 16(1), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16010049 - 24 Dec 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2450
Abstract
This study investigated the prevalence of 11 common pathogens in dogs and cats in Shenzhen, China, from January 2022 to March 2024, aiming to enhance the understanding of their epidemiological characteristics for improved disease control strategies. Diagnostic testing for the target pathogens was [...] Read more.
This study investigated the prevalence of 11 common pathogens in dogs and cats in Shenzhen, China, from January 2022 to March 2024, aiming to enhance the understanding of their epidemiological characteristics for improved disease control strategies. Diagnostic testing for the target pathogens was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), colloidal gold test strips, or fluorescence immunoassay. Statistical analysis revealed that among 13,134 cats, Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV) showed the highest prevalence (35.83%), followed by Feline Calicivirus (FCV, 26.20%), Feline Infectious Peritonitis Virus (FIPV, 22.00%), and Feline Herpesvirus (FHV, 15.76%). Among 3626 dogs, Canine Parvovirus (CPV) and Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) were predominant, showing a prevalence of 54.55% and 42.83%, respectively. Risk factor analysis showed that most infections occurred in unvaccinated animals and young individuals (<1 year old), with higher incidences in winter and spring. Logistic regression indicated that sex, age, and season were significantly associated with FPV, FHV, and FIPV infections, while age and season were associated with FCV, CPV, and CDV infections (sex showed no association). This study contributes to the epidemiological knowledge of common infectious diseases in dogs and cats, providing a theoretical basis for disease prevention in dogs and cats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Research, Epidemiology and New Therapeutic Options in Companion and Wild Animals: 2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 2333 KB  
Article
Phase Angle as a Non-Invasive Biomarker of Fluid Overload in Canine Right Heart Failure: A Bioelectrical Impedance Approach
by Zongru Li, Ahmed S. Mandour, Ahmed Farag, Tingfeng Xu, Kazuyuki Terai, Kazumi Shimada, Lina Hamabe, Aimi Yokoi and Ryou Tanaka
Animals 2025, 15(19), 2877; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15192877 - 30 Sep 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1337
Abstract
Background: Right heart failure (RHF) in dogs is marked by pathological fluid redistribution and extracellular fluid (ECF) accumulation, which intensifies cardiac work-load and disrupts systemic homeostasis. This study aimed to validate the clinical utility of phase angle (PhA), a key biomarker derived from [...] Read more.
Background: Right heart failure (RHF) in dogs is marked by pathological fluid redistribution and extracellular fluid (ECF) accumulation, which intensifies cardiac work-load and disrupts systemic homeostasis. This study aimed to validate the clinical utility of phase angle (PhA), a key biomarker derived from bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), as a non-invasive and real-time indicator of fluid distribution abnormalities in canine RHF. PhA reflects cellular integrity and fluid balance, making it a promising tool for detecting ECF accumulation, one of the hallmark features of RHF. Additionally, the study assessed the feasibility and clinical applicability of the InBody M20 device in veterinary cardiology, supporting its potential role in monitoring and managing fluid-related complications in dogs with RHF. Methods: A total of 110 canine patients presenting to the Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology Veterinary Hospital were enrolled and categorized into three groups: right-sided heart failure (RHF), left-sided heart failure (LHF), and healthy controls. Phase angle (PhA) was measured using the InBody M20 device, and plasma osmolality (OSM) was also assessed. Additionally, the effects of body weight and age on PhA values were analyzed to account for potential confounding factors. Results: Dogs in the RHF group exhibited significantly lower phase angle (PhA) values and higher plasma osmolality (OSM) compared to those in the LHF and control groups. A strong positive correlation was observed between PhA and OSM (r = 0.9211, p < 0.0001). Additionally, PhA measured at 5 kHz demonstrated a significant negative correlation with body weight (r = –0.4536, p = 0.0007), while PhA at 50 kHz showed a significant negative correlation with age (r = –0.3219, p = 0.0176). Conclusions: PhA is a reliable and non-invasive biomarker for assessing extracellular fluid accumulation and diagnosing right heart failure in dogs. Its strong correlation with plasma osmolality, as well as its associations with body weight and age, highlights its clinical relevance for comprehensive fluid status evaluation. The findings support the feasibility and applicability of using the InBody M20 device in veterinary cardiology to monitor and manage fluid-related complications in canine patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Research, Epidemiology and New Therapeutic Options in Companion and Wild Animals: 2nd Edition)
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22 pages, 4010 KB  
Article
Continuous Activity Monitoring Using a Wearable Sensor in Dogs with Osteoarthritis: An Exploratory Case Series
by Carina Sacoor, Sara Leitão, Carolina Domingues, Joana Babo, Cátia M. Sá, Ricardo Cabeças and Felisbina L. Queiroga
Animals 2025, 15(18), 2639; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15182639 - 9 Sep 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4160
Abstract
Canine osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, progressive disease that impacts mobility and welfare, often with subtle clinical signs that fluctuate over time. This exploratory case series evaluated the potential of a wearable sensor system (Maven Pet AI System) to detect real-time deviations in [...] Read more.
Canine osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, progressive disease that impacts mobility and welfare, often with subtle clinical signs that fluctuate over time. This exploratory case series evaluated the potential of a wearable sensor system (Maven Pet AI System) to detect real-time deviations in activity and rest patterns in dogs with OA under home-based conditions. Five client-owned dogs were monitored over periods ranging from 56 to 126 days, generating longitudinal data on activity and rest patterns. Nine clinically relevant events were identified: seven OA-related flare-ups and two non-orthopedic health issues. In eight of these events, deviations in activity profiles were temporally aligned with symptom onset, therapeutic response, or recovery. Statistically significant changes were observed in six out of nine events, particularly in the Active and Excited categories, while visual trend analysis revealed clinically relevant deviations even in the absence of statistical significance. In one case, decreased activity preceded owner recognition, suggesting potential for early detection. Sensor data also contextualized episodes of overexertion and non-orthopedic conditions, such as pruritus and gastroenteritis. Owner and clinician feedback indicated high usability and perceived clinical value. Despite the small sample, these findings suggest that continuous sensor-based monitoring may complement conventional evaluations and support earlier, more individualized OA management in real-world settings. Further studies are needed to validate and expand these preliminary observations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Research, Epidemiology and New Therapeutic Options in Companion and Wild Animals: 2nd Edition)
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Review

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29 pages, 1072 KB  
Review
A Scoping Review of Antimicrobial Therapy in Leptospira Infections in Domestic Animals
by Julia Mendes, Luiza Aymée and Walter Lilenbaum
Animals 2025, 15(20), 3045; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15203045 - 20 Oct 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2906
Abstract
Leptospirosis, caused by Leptospira spp., affects multiple domestic species and can result in significant economic and public health impacts. This scoping review, conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, searched PubMed, SciELO, and Scopus for original studies that described complete therapeutic protocols (including dose, [...] Read more.
Leptospirosis, caused by Leptospira spp., affects multiple domestic species and can result in significant economic and public health impacts. This scoping review, conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, searched PubMed, SciELO, and Scopus for original studies that described complete therapeutic protocols (including dose, duration, and confirmed diagnosis) in dogs, cats, cattle, pigs, horses, sheep, and goats. Thirty-five studies met the criteria: 14 (40%) in cattle, 7 (20%) in swine, 2 (5.7%) in small ruminants, 7 (20%) in dogs and cats, and 5 (14.3%) in horses. In livestock, streptomycin monotherapy has predominated, demonstrating high efficacy against renal and genital carriers, but it faces regulatory restrictions in several countries. In companion animals, treatment often addressed acute cases using doxycycline and aminopenicillins, with frequent drug combinations. Horses were mainly treated with penicillin, alone or associated with other agents. Across species, protocols showed substantial heterogeneity, lack of harmonization, and limited evaluation of bacteriological cure, with most studies published before 2000. This scarcity of recent clinical trials reinforces the neglected status of animal leptospirosis. By compiling fragmented evidence, this review identifies converging practices that may serve as a preliminary consensus, highlights discrepancies and knowledge gaps, and provides an evidence-based framework to support the development of standardized, species-specific guidelines urgently needed in a One Health context. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Research, Epidemiology and New Therapeutic Options in Companion and Wild Animals: 2nd Edition)
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