Search Results (23)

Feline panleukopenia (FPL) is a serious viral disease caused by Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) that causes leukopenia, lymphopenia, and neutropenia, particularly in young or unvaccinated cats. There is no specific antiviral treatment available for FPL, and treatment protocols generally consist of fluid therapy and supportive care. This study evaluated the clinical and hematological efficacy of filgrastim, a granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) that has shown successful results in treating FPL in various studies, and the paraimmune activator-inactivated Parapoxvirus ovis (iPPVO) in 49 cats naturally infected with FPV. Cats were randomly assigned to four groups: low-dose filgrastim (5 µg/kg, n = 13), high-dose filgrastim (20 µg/kg, n = 14), iPPVO (n = 12), and standard supportive treatment (n = 10). Clinical signs and complete blood counts were assessed on days 0 and 7. By day 7, high-dose filgrastim showed greater increases in white blood cell, lymphocyte, monocyte, and neutrophil counts compared with the other groups (p < 0.05), whereas moderate improvements were observed in the iPPVO group. Leukopenia and lymphopenia resolved faster in the high-dose filgrastim group than in the low-dose filgrastim and standard treatment groups. Clinical recovery, including reduction in vomiting and lethargy, was more pronounced in the high-dose filgrastim and iPPVO groups. Survival rates did not differ significantly among groups (p = 0.615), although the high-dose filgrastim group showed the lowest mortality (42.9%). These findings suggest that high-dose filgrastim may contribute to cytopenias and promote hematological recovery in FPL, while iPPVO may serve as a supportive immunomodulatory therapy. However, it should be noted that the efficacy of filgrastim and/or iPPVO treatments has not been definitively confirmed, likely due to the small sample size and the lack of well-controlled randomized studies. Full article

Droplet microfluidics enables high-throughput, compartmentalized reactions using minimal reagent volumes, but most implementations rely on precision-fabricated chips and external pumping systems that limit portability and accessibility. Here, we present a handheld vibrational droplet generator that repurposes a consumer electric toothbrush and a modified disposable pipette tip to produce nearly monodisperse water-in-oil droplets without microfluidic channels or syringe pumps. The device is powered by the toothbrush’s built-in motor and controlled by a simple 3D-printed adapter and adjustable counterweight that tune the vibration amplitude transmitted to the pipette tip. By varying the aperture of the pipette tip, droplets with diameters from ~100–300 µm were generated at rates of ~100 droplets s⁻¹. Image analysis revealed narrow size distributions with coefficients of variation below 5% in typical operating conditions. We further demonstrate proof-of-concept applications in digital loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and microbiological colony-forming unit (CFU) assays. A commercial feline parvovirus (FPV) kit manufactured by Beyotime Biotechnology Co., Ltd. (Shanghai, China), three template concentrations yielded emulsified reaction droplets that remained stable at 65 °C for 45 min and produced distinct fractions of fluorescent-positive droplets, allowing estimation of template concentration via a Poisson model. In a second set of experiments, the device was used as a droplet-based spreader to dispense diluted Escherichia coli suspensions onto LB agar plates, achieving uniform colony distributions across the plate at different dilution factors. The proposed handheld vibrational generator is inexpensive, easy to assemble from off-the-shelf components, and minimizes dead volume and cross-contamination because only the pipette tip contacts the sample. Although the current prototype still exhibits device-to-device variability and moving droplets in open containers complicate real-time imaging, these results indicate that toothbrush-based vibrational actuation can provide a practical and scalable route toward “lab-in-hand” droplet assays in resource-limited or educational settings. Full article

Despite the well-established link between animal abuse and interpersonal violence, animal mistreatment remains a global issue. Challenges such as inconsistent legislation, limited training of specialized pathologists, and lack of regional data persist and must be addressed. In Spain, the real incidence of animal abuse is unknown, and the literature on the topic remains scarce. This study aims to assess the evolution of feline abuse cases in the Community of Madrid, Spain, since the publication of a previous study in the same region. Over a five-year period (2020–2024), 53 cats with suspected abuse were diagnosed at the Pathology and Forensic Veterinary Unit of the VISAVET Health Surveillance Center. Thirty-one cats (58.49%) died from non-natural causes: 17 (32.07%) due to blunt force trauma, eight (15.09%) due to poisoning, and six (11.32%) due to projectile injuries. Natural causes accounted for 21 cases (39.62%). Compared to the previous study, data suggest a possible upward trend in the number of cats referred with suspected animal abuse, including eight new cases of ethylene glycol poisoning. The correlation between the type of suspected abuse and final diagnosis was very low. This article examines current challenges related to animal violence, with particular emphasis on feline colonies, and promotes awareness among both veterinary and non-veterinary professionals. Full article

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common and serious condition in felines. Accordingly, several cell therapies have been studied over the past decades for effective treatments. This study aimed to develop a new lineage of renal progenitor cells for use in cats with CKD. Metanephric and mesonephric progenitor cells were obtained from mesonephros and metanephros tissues of feline conceptuses at four distinct gestational stages. The cultured cells were characterized by their morphology, tumorigenic potential, immunophenotype determined by flow cytometry, and differentiation potential. We then conducted a pilot study in CKD-affected cats, comparing intraperitoneal injections of cultured metanephric progenitor cells (n = 4) to a placebo solution (n = 3). All four cell types exhibited adhesion and colony formation, but showed no tumorigenic potential. Cells tested positive for renal progenitor markers (CD117, Nephron, and WT1), confirming their identity. Treated cats showed no statistically significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in any of the data analyzed. However, caregivers reported a voluntary increase in appetite after cell administration. Veterinarians confirmed this information during double-blind evaluations conducted after treatment. Although this data are qualitative, no clinical deterioration was observed in cats. Our results suggest that this new lineage of renal progenitor cells did not induce immediate adverse effects, thus supporting its potential for use in cell-based therapies. However, further studies are needed to evaluate its efficacy in treating renal diseases. Full article

Aerococcus urinaeequi is an opportunistic pathogen that has been isolated from humans, pigs, and chickens, but with no reports in geese until now. This research aimed to isolate and identify A. urinaeequi from four geese, and establish a specific PCR detection method for A. urinaeequi. Strain E1 was identified as A. urnaeequi through a combination of Gram staining (Gram-positive coccus), colony morphology (α-hemolysis), and whole genome sequencing analysis. Comparative genomics was used to analyze the genome sequences of five reference strains of A. urinaeequi to screen for a species-specific genomic region (401 bp). Based on this region, specific primers were designed to establish the PCR detection method for A. urnaeequi, and the specificity and sensitivity of this assay were tested. The results showed that the target sequence was specifically amplified only for the genome of A. urinaeequi, and that the minimum nucleic acid detection concentration was 7.08 × 10⁻³ ng/μL. The mouse infection model indicated that the target fragment could be amplified from the tissue samples of dead mice in the challenge groups, verifying the applicability of PCR for clinical sample detection. Specific sequences of A. urinaeequi were detected in the lungs of three pigs using the PCR method, confirmed to be consistent through whole genome sequencing, and previously identified as A. urinaeequi or A. viridans by 16S rRNA sequencing. For the detection of fecal samples from geese, canines, and felines using the PCR method, the highest positive rate was 36.9% (31/84) of geese, followed by 21.7% (20/90) of felines, and finally 6.9% (16/230) of canines. A strain of A. urinaeequi was isolated and identified in geese for the first time, and a species-specific PCR detection method for A. urinaeequi was established with high specificity and sensitivity, which could well distinguish the bacterial species A. urinaeequi from its phylogenetically related species, A. viridans. Full article

Urban free-roaming cat populations (or community cats, according to the Spanish legislation) present complex challenges, including public health risks, coexistence conflicts with residents, animal welfare, and threats to biodiversity conservation. In 2020, Córdoba, Spain, initiated one of the most extensive citywide trap–neuter–return (TNR) programs, incorporating 225 groups of cats (usually named colonies) into a meticulously structured management framework. Over four years, the program stabilized cat populations, achieving 95% sterilization coverage and effectively limiting population growth despite external challenges, including abandonment, influxes from unmanaged areas, and compensatory effects. Although the overall population showed a modest decline of 2.68%, this outcome reflects not only the recent inclusion of numerous colonies still undergoing stabilization but also the prevention of an estimated 70% population growth without intervention, as projected by our population viability analysis (PVA). Key results highlight the program’s cost-effectiveness, with an average annual cost of EUR 0.62 per person. The long-term projections from a population viability analysis (PVA) using demographic modeling suggest a potential 55% population reduction by 2028, contingent on sustained efforts. The program’s integration of citizen science, systematic data collection, and adaptive management demonstrates its scalability and replicability as a model for urban and peri-urban feline management globally. Its significance lies not only in its scope and scale but also in demonstrating the ethical and practical feasibility of large-scale TNR initiatives in urban contexts. Córdoba’s program, which predates Spain’s Animal Welfare Law 7/2023 mandating structured feline colony management plans, demonstrates a pioneering framework for compliance and innovation in urban animal management. These findings underscore the critical role of sustained interventions, community collaboration, and legal frameworks in ensuring long-term success and addressing global challenges in urban animal welfare and biodiversity conservation. Full article

Feline Panleukopenia (FPL) infection is caused by feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), and it is considered one of the most severe cat’s infectious diseases. Since there is no specific antiviral treatment for FPL, the therapeutic protocol usually is focused on fluid therapy and supportive care. However, filgrastim, a granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) used in human medicine to treat neutropenia and leukopenia, has been lately used in treating FPV disease, providing promising results. During January 2022 and September 2024, twenty-two cats diagnosed with feline panleukopenia virus were subjected to filgrastim (Zarzio^®, Sandoz, Kundl, Austria) administration at a dose of 6 µg/kg for 3 consecutive days. The 4th day was a break day, and in the 5th day, the complete blood count was repeated. White blood cells, lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils parameters improved after Zarzio^® administration, with a significant statistical difference (p < 0.01) when their values between day 1 (pre Zarzio^® administration) and day 5 (post Zarzio^® administration) were analysed. However, red blood cells, haemoglobin, haematocrit and platelets parameters registered a considerable reduction from day 1 to day 5 with a significant statistical difference (p < 0.01), considered as post-administration side effects. In our study, the survival rate following Zarzio^® administration was 100%, suggesting that the protocol involving three doses is effective in restoring the leukopenia and neutropenia. Full article

The prevalence of respiratory nematodes in domestic animals has increased in Europe in recent decades. Aelurostrongylus abstrusus is the most common parasitic nematode of the respiratory tract in felids, and an increase in its prevalence has been suggested in different European countries including Spain, with values ranging from 0% to 30%. The Baermann technique was used to detect metastrongyloid larvae in 93 faecal samples from cats living in colonies (n = 29), cats living in shelters (n = 30), and owned cats (n = 34). Eleven cats (11.2%) were infected by A. abstrusus, the only species detected. The prevalence in colony cats (34.5%, 10/29) was significantly higher than the 3.3% (1/30) prevalence in shelter cats. Conversely, A. abstrusus was not found in any of the owned cats. The results can be representative of other areas in the Mediterranean basin, indicating the need to improve feline management and knowledge about the distribution and abundance of this parasite through geographically wider studies in Spain. This study emphasizes the importance of deworming domestic cats, especially those from street and rural environments or with outdoor lifestyles. The results also urge the need for population and health control of street cat colonies. Incorporating a deworming protocol in the current trapping–neutering–release campaigns for cat population control will be essential. Full article

To investigate the role of the intestinal bacterial microbiota in the pathogenesis of calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis in cats, a condition characterized by the formation of kidney stones, it is desirable to identify a sample collection method that accurately reflects the microbiota’s composition. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of fecal sample collection methods on the intestinal microbiota composition in two cat populations: healthy cats and kidney stone-diseased cats. The study included eighteen cats from the same colony, comprising nine healthy cats and nine cats with spontaneously occurring presumed calcium oxalate kidney stones. Three fecal collection methods were compared: rectal swabs, the collection of fresh stool, and the collection of stool exposed to ambient air for 24 h. The bacterial microbiota was analyzed through the high-resolution sequencing of the V3–V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. For all cats, within the same individual, a one-way PERMANOVA analysis showed a significant difference between the rectal swabs and fresh stool (p = 0.0003), as well as between the rectal swabs and stool exposed to ambient air for 24 h (p = 0.0003), but no significant difference was identified between the fresh stool and non-fresh stool (p = 0.0651). When comparing the two populations of cats, this study provides seemingly conflicting results. (1) A principal component analysis (PCA) comparison revealed a significant difference in the bacterial composition between the healthy cats and the cats with kidney stones only when the sample was a fresh fecal sample (p = 0.0037). This finding suggests that the intestinal bacteria involved in the pathogenesis of kidney stones in cats are luminal and strictly anaerobic bacteria. Consequently, exposure to ambient air results in a loss of information, preventing the identification of dysbiosis. For clinical studies, non-fresh stool samples provided by owners does not appear suitable for studying the gut microbiota of cats with kidney stones; fresh stool should be favored. (2) Interestingly, the rectal swabs alone highlighted significant differences in the proportion of major phyla between the two populations. These findings highlight the critical importance of carefully selecting fecal collection methods when studying feline gut microbiota. Combining rectal swabs and fresh stool sampling provides complementary insights, offering the most accurate understanding of the gut microbiota composition in the context of feline kidney stone pathogenesis. Full article

Overpopulation of domestic animals leads to various problems, such as the formation of feline colonies. Population management methods for these colonies have been studied previously; however, no scientific consensus has been reached. This study evaluated the use of trap–neuter–return (TNR) in a free-roaming cat colony in Brazil’s Federal District. The study was conducted over 18 months and involved 157 cats that had not previously been managed. The experiment had three parts: recognition and preparation, TNR intervention, and monitoring. The results showed a 47.8% reduction in colony size. Additionally, 98.8% of the animals were sterilized. The adoption, death, disappearance, abandonment, and immigration rates were 19.7%, 14.0%, 14.0%, 7.6%, and 4.5%, respectively. The TNR experiment conducted in the proposed manner, which included detailed pre-planning, mass sterilization, active management, continuous monitoring, and educational actions, proved to be efficient and humane. However, guidelines aimed at managing animal populations, promoting adoption, preventing abandonment, and educating people about responsible pet ownership are essential for achieving sustainable results. Full article

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) remains the single most common cardiomyopathy in cats, with a staggering prevalence as high as 15%. To date, little to no direct therapeutical intervention for HCM exists for veterinary patients. A previous study aimed to evaluate the effects of delayed-release (DR) rapamycin dosing in a client-owned population of subclinical, non-obstructive, HCM-affected cats and reported that the drug was well tolerated and resulted in beneficial LV remodeling. However, the precise effects of rapamycin in the hypertrophied myocardium remain unknown. Using a feline research colony with naturally occurring hereditary HCM (n = 9), we embarked on the first-ever pilot study to examine the tissue-, urine-, and plasma-level proteomic and tissue-level transcriptomic effects of an intermittent low dose (0.15 mg/kg) and high dose (0.30 mg/kg) of DR oral rapamycin once weekly. Rapamycin remained safe and well tolerated in cats receiving both doses for eight weeks. Following repeated weekly dosing, transcriptomic differences between the low- and high-dose groups support dose-responsive suppressive effects on myocardial hypertrophy and stimulatory effects on autophagy. Differences in the myocardial proteome between treated and control cats suggest potential anti-coagulant/-thrombotic, cellular remodeling, and metabolic effects of the drug. The results of this study closely recapitulate what is observed in the human literature, and the use of rapamycin in the clinical setting as the first therapeutic agent with disease-modifying effects on HCM remains promising. The results of this study establish the need for future validation efforts that investigate the fine-scale relationship between rapamycin treatment and the most compelling gene expression and protein abundance differences reported here. Full article

Homeless cats are a major problem in Europe, with hundreds of thousands abandoned every year. While many die, others can adapt to a lifestyle of roaming freely and establish community cat populations that tend to cluster together in groups. These groups of cats are typically found in urban areas that offer food and shelter to the cats. Animal welfare organizations often care for these cats, providing them with food, shelter, and medical attention. Despite this, conflicts can arise due to the presence of free-roaming cats, with some individuals advocating for drastic measures such as trapping and killing the cats to reduce their populations. However, it is essential to note that such methods are frequently illegal, inhumane, and ultimately ineffective in most situations. A thorough assessment of the impact of cats on a particular natural area requires a comprehensive cat census, a detailed study of the species being preyed upon, and an investigation into the prevalence of zoonotic or epizootic diseases. Moreover, veterinary experts assert that the public health risks associated with cats are often overstated. This article aims to provide a nuanced perspective on the impact of cats on biodiversity in natural areas, while also discussing their role in transmitting the main zoonotic diseases identified in European countries in recent years, with a particular focus on Spain. Effective cat control programs should focus on non-lethal methods such as trap–neuter–return (TNR) and adoption. TNR has proven to be the most effective and humane method of controlling the free-roaming cat population, but its effectiveness is influenced by several factors, including adoption programs and public education on responsible pet ownership. According to Spanish veterinarians, sustainable and science-based solutions such as TNR programs are the best way to achieve population control of free-roaming cats. The veterinary profession should raise awareness regarding sterilization, vaccination, and identification of cats and the consequences of abandonment. They oppose lethal control and removal of cats from the environment, which are ineffective and unethical methods. To promote animal welfare, veterinary professionals must collaborate with public administrations to implement long-term, sustainable solutions to the problem of cat overpopulation. Greater social awareness regarding the importance of sterilization and identification to prevent abandonment and reduce the number of free-roaming cats is also needed. Despite the challenges presented by homeless cat populations in Spain and the rest of Europe, there are many reasons for optimism. Animal welfare organizations and veterinary professionals are actively collaborating to develop humane and effective solutions to manage community cats, including programs such as TNR and adoption. Furthermore, these initiatives are gaining momentum and support from emerging laws and regulations, such as the recent Spanish animal welfare law. Through these efforts, we can reduce the number of free-roaming cats and improve their quality of life. Full article

Cats are susceptible to coronavirus infections, including infection by human severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). In human ABO system blood groups, alloantibodies can play a direct role in resistance to infectious diseases. Individuals with the AB blood type were over-represented in the SARS-CoV-2 infection group. Blood type AB individuals lack both anti-A and anti-B antibodies, and therefore lack the protective effect against SARS-CoV-2 infection given by these antibodies. Starting from this knowledge, this pilot preliminary study evaluated a possible association between feline blood phenotypes A, B, and AB and serostatus for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in cats. We also investigated selected risk or protective factors associated with seropositivity for this coronavirus. A feline population of 215 cats was analysed for AB group system blood phenotypes and antibodies against the nucleocapsid (N-protein) SARS-CoV-2 antigen using a double antigen ELISA. SARS-CoV-2 seropositive samples were confirmed using a surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT). Origin (stray colony/shelter/owned cat), breed (DSH/non DSH), gender (male/female), reproductive status (neutered/intact), age class (kitten/young adult/mature adult/senior), retroviruses status (seropositive/seronegative), and blood phenotype (A, B, and AB) were evaluated as protective or risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity. Seropositivity for antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 N-protein was recorded in eight cats, but only four of these tested positive with sVNT. Of these four SARS-CoV-2 seropositive cats, three were blood phenotype A and one was phenotype AB. Young adult age (1–6 years), FeLV seropositivity and blood type AB were significantly associated with SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity according to a univariate analysis, but only blood type AB (p = 0.0344, OR = 15.4, 95%CI: 1.22–194.39) and FeLV seropositivity (p = 0.0444, OR = 13.2, 95%CI: 1.06–163.63) were significant associated risk factors according to a logistic regression. Blood phenotype AB might be associated with seropositivity for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. This could be due, as in people, to the protective effect of naturally occurring alloantibodies to blood type antigens which are lacking in type AB cats. The results of this pilot study should be considered very preliminary, and we suggest the need for further research to assess this potential relationship. Full article

Cats are susceptible to feline coronavirus (FCoV), a highly contagious virus with fecal–oral transmission. In people, susceptibility to coronavirus infection, such as SARS-CoV infection, has been associated with the ABO blood group, with individuals with blood group O having significantly lower risk of SARS-CoV infection. This study evaluated a possible association between feline blood group phenotypes A, B and AB and serostatus for antibodies against FCoV. We also investigated risk or protective factors associated with seropositivity for FCoV in the investigated population. Feline populations were surveyed for AB group system blood types and for presence of antibodies against FCoV. Blood phenotype, origin, breed, gender, reproductive status and age of cats were evaluated as protective or risk factors for coronavirus infection. No blood type was associated with FCoV seropositivity, for which being a colony stray cat (p = 0.0002, OR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.14–0.54) or a domestic shorthair cat (p = 0.0075, OR = 0.2, 95% CI = 0.09–0.69) were protective factors. Based on results of this study, feline blood phenotypes A, B or AB do not seem to predispose cats to seropositivity for FCoV. Future studies on other feline blood types and other infections could clarify whether feline blood types could play a role in predisposing to, or protecting against, feline infections. Full article

The olfactory mucosa contains olfactory ecto-mesenchymal stem cells (OE-MSCs) which show stemness features, multipotency capabilities, and have a therapeutic potential. The OE-MSCs have already been collected and isolated from various mammals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of collecting, purifying and amplifying OE-MSCs from the cat nasal cavity. Four cats were included in the study. Biopsies of olfactory mucosa were performed on anesthetized animals. Then, the olfactory OE-MSCs were isolated, and their stemness features as well as their mesodermal differentiation capabilities were characterized. Olfactory mucosa biopsies were successfully performed in all subjects. From these biopsies, cellular populations were rapidly generated, presenting various stemness features, such as a fibroblast-like morphology, nestin and MAP2 expression, and sphere and colony formation. These cells could differentiate into neural and mesodermal lineages. This report shows for the first time that the isolation of OE-MSCs from cat olfactory mucosa is possible. These cells showed stemness features and multilineage differentiation capabilities, indicating they may be a promising tool for autologous grafts and feline regenerative medicine. Full article