J. Feline Med. Surg. [JOURNAL]
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200 papers
FelineVMA 2025 transportation of cats in motor vehicles position statement.
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41165120 · Full text
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Evaluation of neutrophil:lymphocyte and platelet:neutrophil ratios and their prognostic utility in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism.
Yoon LI, Li RH
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41165112 · Full text
ObjectivesThe aim of the study was to compare the neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet:neutrophil ratio (PNR) in cats with or without hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism (...
ObjectivesThe aim of the study was to compare the neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet:neutrophil ratio (PNR) in cats with or without hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism (CATE) and to evaluate their prognostic significance in cats with HCM.MethodsHealthy cats and cats with HCM and CATE were prospectively enrolled between 2018 and 2020. Complete blood count and echocardiogram were performed. NLR and PNR were compared between cats in healthy, HCM and CATE groups. Outcome data, including cause of death, time to death and progression of HCM, were collected via review of medical record and owner interviews. Associations between time to cardiac-related mortality, NLR and PNR were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves and the Cox proportional hazards regression model.ResultsA total of 110 cats were enrolled, including 42 healthy cats, 57 cats with HCM (37 stage B1, 9 stage B2, 11 stage C) and 11 cats with CATE. Cats with CATE had the highest NLR (5.8, range 3.1-12.7) compared with HCM ( = 0.03) and healthy cats ( ⩽0.0001), while NLR was higher in cats with HCM (3.3, range 1.8-5.1) compared with healthy controls ( = 0.04). PNR was lower in cats with CATE (16.6, range 13.2-27.9) compared with healthy cats ( = 0.0027). Although PNR did not differ between cats in the healthy and HCM groups ( >0.9), HCM-affected cats with PNR below 40 had a significantly lower median survival time (1093-1185 days) compared with those with PNR above 40 ( = 0.03). Cats with PNR below 40 at the time of HCM diagnosis also had a significant risk (hazard ratio 9.8; = 0.03) of cardiac-related mortality.Conclusions and relevancePNR is an accessible and cost-effective hematological biomarker that outperforms NLR and echocardiographic findings in cats with early subclinical HCM. Alterations in NLR and PNR in cats with HCM and CATE suggest a potential role of systemic inflammation in feline HCM.
Predictors and accuracy of visual weight estimation by veterinary students for cats in trap-neuter-return programs.
Darr AF, Nguyen SK, Kreisler RE
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Dec · PMID 41159680 · Full text
ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of visual weight estimation by veterinary students for free-roaming cats presented in traps during trap-neuter-return (TNR) events and identify variables t...
ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of visual weight estimation by veterinary students for free-roaming cats presented in traps during trap-neuter-return (TNR) events and identify variables that predict the percentage difference between estimated and actual weights.MethodsDuring five TNR events, veterinary students, veterinarians and technicians visually estimated weights for 308 cats. Actual cat weights were measured, and the accuracy of visual estimates was evaluated using the percentage of estimates within 10% (PW10) and 20% (PW20) of actual weight. Predictors of percentage difference were analyzed using mixed-effects linear regression. Dosing accuracy of the induction cocktail was assessed by comparing estimate-derived drug doses to the target range.ResultsStudent estimates achieved a PW20 accuracy of 44%, lower than veterinarians (56%) but higher than technicians (35%). Accuracy within 10% (PW10) was limited across all groups, with students achieving 14% compared with veterinarians at 33%. Dosing based on student estimates fell within the target range for 85% of cases, compared with 95-96% for veterinarians, technicians and consensus estimates. Systematic errors included overestimating lighter cats and underestimating heavier cats, with posture and using kilograms vs pounds also affecting accuracy.Conclusions and relevanceAlthough student estimates were less accurate than those by veterinarians, dosing derived from these estimates was clinically acceptable in most cases. Training on systematic biases and leveraging consensus estimates may improve accuracy. Integrating veterinary student weight estimates into TNR programs is feasible with appropriate safeguards, including training on systematic estimate biases, estimate consensus and post-induction monitoring.
Feline neurological disease in a veterinary referral hospital in the UK: clinical diagnosis, neuroanatomical localisation and VITAMIN D-based aetiological distribution.
Pisco V, Gomes SA
J Feline Med Surg · 2026 Jan · PMID 41159676 · Full text
ObjectivesThe aims of the present study were characterisation of a population of cats presented to a single hospital, regarding clinical diagnoses, neuroanatomical localisation and aetiological disease distribution, and...
ObjectivesThe aims of the present study were characterisation of a population of cats presented to a single hospital, regarding clinical diagnoses, neuroanatomical localisation and aetiological disease distribution, and to provide guidance for better clinical reasoning and differential diagnosis in the setting of feline neurology.MethodsA retrospective, statistical descriptive study was conducted. The number of clinical diagnoses, neuroanatomical localisations and aetiological disease distributions - classified according to the vascular, inflammatory/infectious, traumatic, anomalous, metabolic, idiopathic, neoplastic, degenerative (VITAMIN D) system - were recorded, along with signalment and duration of clinical signs.ResultsNeurological disease amounted to 10% of the total cases seen in a single veterinary hospital over a period of 9 years. A total of 266 cats were included in the study; of these, 44% had lesions in the brain, 26.3% in the spinal cord, 25.6% in the neuromuscular system and 4.1% had diffuse signs of neurological disease. Neoplastic (77 cats, 28.9%), idiopathic (67 cats, 25.2%) and inflammatory/infectious (56 cats, 21.1%) were the most frequently recognised disease categories. Regarding brain disease, neoplastic (36.8%), idiopathic (34.2%) and inflammatory/infectious (16.2%) diseases were most frequently diagnosed, with idiopathic epilepsy, meningioma and paroxysmal dyskinesia the most common specific diagnoses. For spinal cord disease, neoplastic (31.4%) and degenerative (31.4%) conditions predominated, with ischaemic myelopathy, intervertebral disc extrusion and feline infectious peritonitis the most frequent diagnoses. Among neuromuscular diseases, idiopathic processes (39.7%) were the most common, with otitis media/interna as the leading diagnosis. For diffuse diseases, inflammatory/infectious conditions (54.5%) were most prevalent, with toxoplasmosis and undetermined neoplasia the most frequent clinical diagnosis.Conclusions and relevanceThis is the first study to describe feline neurological patients in the UK in terms of clinical diagnoses, neuroanatomical localisation and aetiological disease distribution. The findings add to current knowledge in feline neurology and may contribute to a more comprehensive list of differential diagnoses and improved recognition of neurological disease in cats.
Prevalence of ocular lesions in cats with anaemia and thrombocytopenia.
Frejlich M, Grillot AE, Elodie D … +1 more , Guillaume P
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41157811 · Full text
ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the association of anaemia and thrombocytopenia with the presence and severity of ocular lesions in cats.MethodsCats were prospectively recruited into four groups in this cross-sect...
ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the association of anaemia and thrombocytopenia with the presence and severity of ocular lesions in cats.MethodsCats were prospectively recruited into four groups in this cross-sectional study: anaemic (A) (haematocrit level ⩽24%, n = 20), thrombocytopenic (T) (platelet count of ⩽200 × 10/l, n = 10), anaemic and thrombocytopenic (AT) (n = 33) and healthy controls (C) (n = 20). All cats underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic examination, with lesions classified as absent, minor (isolated retinal haemorrhages) or major (diffuse retinal haemorrhages, hyphaema or intravitreal bleeding). Signalment, clinical signs, diagnostic test results and final diagnoses were collected from the medical records.ResultsOcular lesion prevalence was 20%, 10%, 48% and 0% in the A, T, AT and C groups, respectively. Among affected cats, minor and major lesions occurred in 67% and 33% of cases, respectively. All major lesions were observed in groups T and AT. Anaemia and thrombocytopenia were significantly associated with both the presence ( = .001, = .002) and severity ( <.001, = .006) of ocular lesions. A haematocrit value of ≤18.5% had a sensitivity of 91% and specificity of 58% for detecting ocular lesions.Conclusions and relevanceAnaemia and thrombocytopenia were significantly associated with the presence and severity of ocular lesions in cats in this study. Cats with concurrent anaemia and thrombocytopenia exhibited a higher prevalence of ocular lesions than those with either condition alone. This finding warrants further investigation into potential underlying mechanisms. Based on these results, any cat presenting with anaemia or thrombocytopenia should undergo a complete ophthalmic examination.
Implementation of a prospective in-clinic validated Feline Osteoarthritis Checklist.
Gober M
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41147304 · Full text
ObjectivesThe goal of the present study was to screen two cat populations for osteoarthritis. There are an estimated 60 million cats in the USA, with a growing body of evidence identifying a high percentage of them as su...
ObjectivesThe goal of the present study was to screen two cat populations for osteoarthritis. There are an estimated 60 million cats in the USA, with a growing body of evidence identifying a high percentage of them as suffering from osteoarthritis (OA); however, many are undiagnosed. New tools, such as the Feline Osteoarthritis Checklist, are available for use in practice to help screen cats for OA.MethodsWorking with the same general small animal practice, one population of cats was retrospectively screened for OA using historical methods, including physical examination and owner engagement. These results were then numerically evaluated to a similar prospective population using the Feline OA Checklist as a screening tool. Five general practice veterinary clinics with feline patients participated in both parts of this study, providing a total of 502 cat medical records for the retrospective phase of this study and 437 completed screening forms in the prospective phase of this study.ResultsOf the cats in the retrospective phase of the study, 1% had orthopedic-related issues when methods of identification such as oral history and physical examination were used. When the Feline OA Checklist was used as a screening tool in a prospective population, 39% of cats were identified as demonstrating at least one behavior consistent with OA.Conclusions and relevancePain recognition is the first step of pain management, and the use of the Feline OA Checklist can help improve feline health and welfare by easily and readily identifying these patients. Utilizing tools such as the Feline OA Checklist to screen all cats in practice offers veterinary practitioners an efficient way to identify the impact of feline OA and begin alleviating pain-related suffering.
Ultrasonographic characteristics of renal lymphoma in cats receiving chemotherapy.
Cordella A, Franklin C, Dirrig H … +2 more , De Arcangeli S, Lenz J
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Dec · PMID 41133985 · Full text
ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to describe renal ultrasonographic (US) findings in cats with confirmed renal lymphoma receiving chemotherapy and correlate them with clinical and clinicopathological findings.MethodsF...
ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to describe renal ultrasonographic (US) findings in cats with confirmed renal lymphoma receiving chemotherapy and correlate them with clinical and clinicopathological findings.MethodsFor this multicenter retrospective study, cats were included if they had cyto-/histological confirmation of renal lymphoma, received multiagent chemotherapy, and US images of the kidneys before and after treatment were available. All images at T0 (diagnosis) and T1 (after chemotherapy) were reviewed. Oncology records were reviewed, and serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) concentrations were recorded, when available.ResultsA total of 24 cats (20 males, 4 females; median age 8 years) who underwent vincristine, cyclophosphamide and prednisolone (COP)-based chemotherapy were included. At T1 (median 33 days, range 20-60), 21 cats were considered to have experienced clinical benefit (20 with improved renal appearance on ultrasound, one with static appearance), two cats had stable clinical findings (one stable, one progressive ultrasound) and one cat clinically declined (progressive ultrasound). On ultrasonography, nephromegaly resolved in 12/20 cats, hypoechoic subcapsular rim disappeared in 6/17 and reduced in 7/17, and nodules and/or masses disappeared in 8/14 and reduced in 5/14 cats. Six cats had normal creatinine and BUN concentrations at both T0 and T1 (five improved and one with stable ultrasound findings); in 11 cats, the azotemia detected at T0 resolved at T1; four cats were persistently azotemic (all with reduced creatinine and BUN concentrations) and one cat became azotemic on T1 (progressive ultrasonography).Conclusions and relevanceAfter chemotherapy, kidneys affected by lymphoma commonly returned to their regular size; subcapsular rim, nodules and masses markedly reduced or completely resolved. US findings were often in agreement with clinical and clinicopathological findings.
Efficacy of video-otoscope-guided septum bulla fenestration and middle ear lavage for treating otitis media in cats.
Osumi T, Onishi I, Baba Y
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41116290 · Full text
Case series summaryFeline otitis media (FOM) is an inflammatory condition of the middle ear in cats. The bony septum of the tympanic bulla divides it into lateral and medial compartments, making general middle ear lavage...
Case series summaryFeline otitis media (FOM) is an inflammatory condition of the middle ear in cats. The bony septum of the tympanic bulla divides it into lateral and medial compartments, making general middle ear lavage insufficient for clearing the medial compartment. The effectiveness of video-otoscope (VO)-guided myringotomy and saline lavage of the middle ear has been recently demonstrated; however, recurrence was noted in some cases. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of VO-guided septum bulla fenestration (SBF) with lavage of the medial compartment in 31 cats (44 ears) diagnosed with FOM. The cases were retrospectively reviewed between August 2021 and November 2023. Diagnoses were based on clinical signs (eg, chronic otorrhea and vestibular signs), imaging (CT, MRI or radiography) and myringotomy findings. All cats underwent middle ear lavage followed by SBF to access the medial compartment. During myringotomy and SBF, the obtained samples were evaluated cytologically and clinical signs were monitored for at least 6 months. Significant additional effusion was drained from the medial compartment in 38 (86.4%) ears, and bacteria were identified on cytology in 5.3% of the samples. A total of 16 ears showed recurrence or persistent clinical signs; most responded to subsequent medical therapy or repeat lavage without requiring surgery. Overall, stable remission was achieved in 39/44 (88.6%) ears. No severe postoperative complications were observed; one cat had transient facial nerve paralysis and another had Horner's syndrome.Relevance and novel informationVO-guided SBF provided minimally invasive access to the medial compartment of the tympanic bulla, allowing lavage of otherwise inaccessible effusion. Most cases achieved stable remission, but recurrence occurred in some, indicating that SBF may serve as an adjunct therapy rather than a definitive solution. Further studies with extended follow-up are needed to clarify its long-term prognostic value.
Field safety and efficacy study with a cannabidiol/cannabidiol acid-rich hemp paste in cats with osteoarthritic pain.
Mulder LM, Deterd Oude Weme J, Blees NR … +3 more , Wakshlag JJ, Hughes D, Corbee RJ
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41094745 · Full text
ObjectivesFeline osteoarthritis (OA) is a common, degenerative joint condition that is an important cause of chronic pain in cats. Cannabinoids have shown potential in reducing pain and inflammation in OA, but research i...
ObjectivesFeline osteoarthritis (OA) is a common, degenerative joint condition that is an important cause of chronic pain in cats. Cannabinoids have shown potential in reducing pain and inflammation in OA, but research in cats is limited. This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of a cannabidiol (CBD)/cannabidiol acid (CBDA) paste would in cats with OA. We hypothesised that CBD/CBDA paste would reduce pain scores and would be safe for use without significant adverse effects.MethodsIn this randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled crossover study, client-owned cats with OA were assigned to two study groups and received a 6-week course of both CBD/CBDA paste and a placebo. During the initial consultation and following appointments, cats underwent orthopaedic examination pain assessment with the North Carolina State University Translational Research in Pain (TRiP) Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index scoring system and blood examination. Owners filled in a bi-weekly questionnaire (Dutch Orthopaedic Rating for Feline Osteoarthritis Pain, DORFOP). TRiP and DORFOP scores were analysed using mixed-effects models. Clinical chemistry in week 6 was compared using paired -tests.ResultsA total of 26 cats participated in the study. Of these, 12 dropped out primarily because of their refusal to eat the CBD/CBDA paste, and, in some cases, vomiting was reported. Fourteen cats were left to complete the study. CBD/CBDA paste significantly reduced TRiP and DORFOP scores after 6 weeks of administration, with changes in DORFOP starting after 2 weeks. No differences in clinical biochemistry were observed between the placebo and CBD/CBDA paste at week 6.Conclusions and relevanceCBA/CBDA paste effectively reduced pain in cats, but the high drop-out rate is concerning. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer treatment durations is needed to confirm these findings.
Feline high pathogenicity avian influenza H5N1 infection: past and present.
Schlachter AD, Bruno-McClung E, Díaz-Delgado J … +3 more , Odom M, Banyard AC, Núñez A
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41063470 · Full text
Since 2020, the emergence and global dissemination of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5Nx clade 2.3.4.4b infection has had devastating effects in wild and domestic bird populations, and resulted in spillover e...
Since 2020, the emergence and global dissemination of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5Nx clade 2.3.4.4b infection has had devastating effects in wild and domestic bird populations, and resulted in spillover events in many terrestrial and marine mammalian species, including susceptible captive big cat collections, and feral and domestic feline species. The recent outbreaks in dairy herds in the USA following proposed exposure to infection from wild birds, with subsequent spread to in-contact mammals, demonstrates successful interspecies transmission of this virus and warrants close monitoring. In this literature review, we provide an overview of HPAI H5N1 infection in feline species to date, focusing on domestic but also captive wild cats, looking at the epidemiology, clinical and pathological presentations and management, and a current perspective on risk, testing and strategies to prevent infection.
Clinical therapeutics in feline medicine: updates for old and new drugs.
Susi IR, Viviano K, Whitehouse WH
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41051985 · Full text
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE: Over the past 10 years, feline medicine has significantly advanced through the addition of new pharmaceuticals and alternative formulations available for cats, as well as improvements in the knowledg...
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE: Over the past 10 years, feline medicine has significantly advanced through the addition of new pharmaceuticals and alternative formulations available for cats, as well as improvements in the knowledge about existing agents. Through continued drug development, the therapeutic options for cats are expanding. CLINICAL CHALLENGES: There are many speciesspecific clinical challenges encountered with the treatment of feline diseases. Additionally, therapeutic options can vary based on geography and change over time. EVIDENCE BASE: This review article discusses the current evidence for some of the newer therapeutic agents that are either presently available for use by feline medicine practitioners or are in development and undergoing clinical trials. Their recent introduction means the evidence for some of these medications is still emerging. The clinical use of these agents, available pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data, and reported adverse effects in cats are presented. AUDIENCE: The information in this article is relevant to all veterinarians who practice feline medicine.
Nucleated red blood cells in critically ill cats.
Dörfelt R, Pabst K, Hartmann K
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Nov · PMID 41044800 · Full text
ObjectivesThis study investigated the presence of nucleated red blood cells (NRBCs) in the circulation as a prognostic factor in critically ill cats.MethodsCritically ill cats were prospectively included over 11 months i...
ObjectivesThis study investigated the presence of nucleated red blood cells (NRBCs) in the circulation as a prognostic factor in critically ill cats.MethodsCritically ill cats were prospectively included over 11 months if they fulfilled at least 3/4 systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria or if their general condition was severely reduced. All cats underwent a physical examination and blood collection for haematological and clinical chemical parameters, including NRBCs at admission and during hospitalisation. Outcome was defined as survival to 28 days after discharge from hospital. For manual microscopic NRBC count, 300 nucleated cells were examined and recorded as relative NRBC count (rNRBC). Absolute NRBC (aNRBC) numbers were calculated from those values: aNRBC = rNRBC × (white blood cell [WBC]/100).ResultsNRBCs, and most commonly metarubricytes, were detected in 25/94 critically ill cats. Primary underlying diseases were infectious (n = 10), neoplastic (n = 33), metabolic (n = 29), cardiovascular (n = 10), neurological (n = 5) and miscellaneous (n = 7). A positive correlation of absolute NRBCs with corrected WBCs ( = 0.448) was observed. After 28 days, 18 cats were still alive and 76 cats did not survive. Mortality did not differ between NRBC-positive and NRBC-negative cats ( = 0.641). Absolute NRBC count was 0.382 × 10/l (range 0.032-28.990) and did not differ between survivors and non-survivors. Anaemia was not associated with NRBCs. All but one of the six NRBC-positive cats on day 2 did not survive.Conclusions and relevanceNRBCs can be observed in the blood of critically ill cats; however, their occurrence did not have a prognostic value.
Efficacy of combined grapiprant and tapentadol for analgesia in cats undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy.
Alegre EA, Lima BJ, Vieira B … +5 more , Almeida Barbosa L, Chávez Silva ÁJ, Pires MLS, Niella RV, Lavor MSL
J Feline Med Surg · 2026 Jan · PMID 41044798 · Full text
ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the effects of combined grapiprant and tapentadol on intraoperative physiological parameters, the occurrence of adverse events and postoperative analgesic efficacy in cats undergoin...
ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the effects of combined grapiprant and tapentadol on intraoperative physiological parameters, the occurrence of adverse events and postoperative analgesic efficacy in cats undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy, using two multidimensional pain scales.MethodsA total of 60 mixed-breed female cats were enrolled in a randomized, prospective, blinded study. The animals were evenly distributed into four groups (n = 15 per group). In total, 51 animals completed the study; the control group received placebo (CON; n = 11), while the grapiprant group (GRA; n = 13) received grapiprant (3.8 ± 0.5 mg/kg), the tapentadol group (TAP; n = 14) received tapentadol (5.3 ± 1.2 mg/kg) and the grapiprant-tapentadol group (GT; n = 13) received a combination of grapiprant (4.2 ± 0.5 mg/kg PO) and tapentadol (5 ± 0.6 mg/kg PO) 1 hour before initiation of the standardized anesthesia protocol and surgical procedure. Physiological parameters were monitored during surgery, and postoperative pain was assessed for 6 h after extubation using the Short Form of the UNESP-Botucatu Feline Pain Score (UFESP-SF) and the Feline Grimace Scale (FGS), administered by two blinded evaluators.ResultsNo adverse effects or statistically significant differences in physiological parameters were observed between groups. The assessment of pain scores showed good reliability, with intraclass correlation coefficient values of 0.89 for the FGS and 0.91 for the UFESP-SF, supporting inter-rater agreement for both instruments. At 3 h postoperatively, FGS scores differed significantly between the CON and GT groups ( = 0.0363). Rescue analgesia requirements also varied among groups ( = 0.0110): the GT group required rescue at 3 h compared with 1 h in the CON group ( = 0.0007) and 2 h in the GRA group ( = 0.0058).Conclusions and relevanceThe results of this study showed that the analgesic effect of the grapiprant-tapentadol combination lasted up to 3 h in the postoperative period, which was longer than the 2 h of grapiprant and tapentadol alone, without compromising intraoperative physiological stability.
Anatomical variations in the tributaries of the normal feline extrahepatic portal system: evaluation with CT angiography.
Dekkers MM, Devriendt N, Rooster H … +2 more , Saunders J, Stock E
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Sep · PMID 41026679 · Full text
ObjectivesIt is often suggested in the literature that the anatomy of the extrahepatic portal vein (EHPV) in dogs and cats is similar. Nevertheless, variations and contradictions in the tributaries of the EHPV in cats ha...
ObjectivesIt is often suggested in the literature that the anatomy of the extrahepatic portal vein (EHPV) in dogs and cats is similar. Nevertheless, variations and contradictions in the tributaries of the EHPV in cats have been described. Therefore, the aim of this study was to describe the normal anatomical variations of the tributaries of the EHPV in a large cohort of cats.MethodsA retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study of abdominal CT angiography (CTA) scans was performed. Cats that underwent CTA between January 2020 and July 2024 were reviewed in consensus by three observers. Cats with vascular anomalies or CTA scans in which the EHPV or its tributaries could not be accurately evaluated were excluded.ResultsA total of 52 CTA scans were included. The splenic vein (SV) was consistently present in all cats as the most caudally inserting vein in the EHPV. The left gastric vein (LGV) entered the EHPV directly in 42/52 cats and, in 36 of those, the LGV was the most cranial vein entering the EHPV. In 28 cats with direct insertion, a second branch of the LGV entered the SV. In eight cats, a single LGV entered the SV, as is typically seen in dogs. In the remaining two cats, the LGV was not identified. In 34/52 cats, the gastroduodenal vein entered the EHPV, as described in dogs, whereas in the remaining 18 cats, the right gastric vein and cranial pancreaticoduodenal vein entered the EHPV together.Conclusions and relevanceVarious anatomical variations of the inserting veins in the EHPV were identified. Knowledge about the variation in normal anatomy of the EHPV and its tributaries is important, especially to evaluate complex pathologies of the EHPV, such as vascular anomalies and EHPV thromboses.
Effect of unilateral arytenoid lateralisation on the rima glottidis volume in cats: a cadaveric study.
Juhász Z, Immler M, Adamik R … +3 more , Paál G, Mózes B, Krauß M
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Sep · PMID 41026678 · Full text
ObjectivesThis study aimed to document the percentage increase in the rima glottidis volume after unilateral cricoarytenoid lateralisation (CAL) in feline cadavers and establish categories and ranges to evaluate the degr...
ObjectivesThis study aimed to document the percentage increase in the rima glottidis volume after unilateral cricoarytenoid lateralisation (CAL) in feline cadavers and establish categories and ranges to evaluate the degree of arytenoid abduction.MethodsLeft CAL was performed in nine cadavers. Pre- and postoperative video endoscopy was performed on each resting and lateralised larynx. The images were analysed using an imaging program. Based on reference markings, the increase in the volume of each rima glottidis was measured, and the penetration of the mucosa by the suture material was documented. Measurements were evaluated using Wilcoxon's signed-rank test and objectively graded into four categories based on percentile volume increase, which were defined as unchanged (<103%), moderately lateralised (207%), sufficiently lateralised (311%) and over abducted (>312%).ResultsDuring laryngoscopic examinations, none of the nine arytenoid cartilages was considered unchanged; one case was considered to be moderate, five were sufficiently lateralised and three were categorised as over abducted. Through objective videoendoscopic evaluations, we found that the mean increase in the rima glottidis volume was 264%. None of the larynxes were categorised as unchanged; two were categorised as moderately lateralised, with volume increases of 169% and 195%, respectively; four were categorised as sufficiently lateralised, with values in the range of 229-303%; and three were categorised as over abducted, with volume increases in the range of 324-335%. There was strong agreement between the objective and subjective evaluations. There was no evidence of mucosal perforation caused by the suture material.Conclusions and relevanceUnilateral CAL in cats is a feasible option for increasing the rima glottidis volume. Postoperative laryngoscopic values correlated well with objective measurements; therefore, it is a good method to assess the degree of arytenoid abduction. Moderate lateralisation results in a significant volume increase, but values above 324% cause deformation of the larynx.
Impact of general anesthesia on feline aqueous tear production and the feline corneal epithelium.
Haubrich KN, Leis ML, Levitt SM … +2 more , Parker SE, Sandmeyer LS
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Nov · PMID 41024328 · Full text
ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to identify the prevalence of corneal injury in cats undergoing general anesthesia (GA) while receiving prophylactic ocular lubrication, identify risk factors for corneal injury...
ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to identify the prevalence of corneal injury in cats undergoing general anesthesia (GA) while receiving prophylactic ocular lubrication, identify risk factors for corneal injury and quantify the effect of GA on tear production in cats.MethodsA total of 42 cats undergoing GA for non-ophthalmic procedures were included. Before GA, an ocular examination including a Schirmer tear test-1 (STT-1) and fluorescein stain (FS) was performed. Prophylactic lubrication was administered at the time of anesthetic induction and repeated every 15 mins until extubation. At 1 h after extubation, STT-1 and FS were performed and repeated hourly for 4 h. A Shapiro-Wilk test and paired -test compared STT-1 results before and after GA. Logistic regression was used to analyze corneal injury and possible risk factors for corneal injury.ResultsNo cats developed FS uptake consistent with corneal ulceration. In total, 14 cats and 23 (27.4%) eyes developed corneal erosion at all time points. There was a significant decrease in tear production at all four time points after GA. Pre-medication opioid choice and corneal exposure were identified as significant risk factors for corneal injury.Conclusions and relevanceCorneal ulceration did not develop after GA in this study. There was a significant decrease in tear production in cats for at least 4 h after GA. Cats appear to have a higher prevalence of corneal injury after GA compared with dogs. Frequent eye lubrication is recommended for feline patients during and after GA.
Progression of lipase activity and pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity in clinically healthy cats and cats with diet-responsive enteropathy.
Moscoso Uribe F, Riond B, Del Chicca F … +4 more , Ruetten M, Grimm F, Liesegang A, Kook PH
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Sep · PMID 41017078 · Full text
ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to describe the course of lipase activity, pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (PLI) and clinical findings over time in cats.MethodsFour clinically healthy cats and two diarrhoei...
ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to describe the course of lipase activity, pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (PLI) and clinical findings over time in cats.MethodsFour clinically healthy cats and two diarrhoeic cats from a research colony aged 2-8 years with normal haematology and serum biochemistry results were followed up with lipase measurements over a total of 12 months in this descriptive study. Lipase activity (LIPCRoche; reference interval [RI] 8-26 U/l) was determined at day 0, and lipase activity and concurrent PLI (Spec fPL; RI 0-4.4 µg/l) were determined at days 19, 47, 54, 221 and 369. All cats were examined weekly. The pancreas and gastrointestinal tract of all cats were examined via ultrasonography.ResultsLipase activity and PLI in four clinically healthy cats was in the range of 10-283 U/l (median 69) and 1.2-86 µg/l (median 13), respectively. Lipase activity and PLI in two cats with enteropathy was in the range of 16-130 U/l (median 42) and 1.9-36 µg/l (median 8.3). The magnitude and nature of change were always the same for both assays. The correlation between assays was very high ( 0.984; <0.0001). The pancreas was normal on ultrasound in both diarrhoeic cats and two healthy cats, whereas a hypoechoic and enlarged pancreas was found in two clinically healthy cats with persistently increased lipase values. All cats had ultrasonographic evidence of enteropathy. No pattern could be recognised in the temporal lipase progression; only one healthy cat with an ultrasonographically abnormal pancreas had continuously increasing values. Both cats with large bowel diarrhoea were diet-responsive.Conclusions and relevanceLipase activity and PLI varied from normal to markedly increased in clinically healthy cats and cats with diet-responsive enteropathy and a normal pancreas on ultrasonography. Both lipase assays yielded virtually identical results. No apparent association between lipase results and clinical or ultrasonographic findings was found. The results illustrate the difficulties clinicians face when trying to assess the significance of lipase levels in cats.
Evaluation of different doses of medetomidine for the induction of emesis in cats.
Sänger F, Dörfelt R
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Sep · PMID 41017076 · Full text
ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate the emetic effect of medetomidine, determine the best dose for clinical practice and investigate any adverse effects at different doses.MethodsIn this prospective, observational...
ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate the emetic effect of medetomidine, determine the best dose for clinical practice and investigate any adverse effects at different doses.MethodsIn this prospective, observational study, 10, 20, 30 and 40 µg/kg of medetomidine was administered intramuscularly (IM) to cats after ingestion of foreign substances, to induce emesis. The success rate, frequency, time after injection, sedation score and adverse effects were recorded. If induction of emesis was not successful after 10 or 20 µg/kg medetomidine, a second bolus of medetomidine (20 µg/kg IM) was administered 10 mins later.ResultsA total of 58 cats were included after foreign material ingestion. Emesis was achieved with all doses of medetomidine (39/58), whereby the highest success rate was reached with 20 µg/kg (13/17). The success rate after the first injection was not statistically different between the different medetomidine doses ( = 0.457). The median time to emesis after the first injection of medetomidine for all cats was 5 mins (range 3-14). The sedation score was lower after 10 µg/kg medetomidine compared with 40 µg/kg ( = 0.013). The most common adverse effect was sedation. Medetomidine was antagonised with atipamezole in 47/58 cats.Conclusions and relevanceMedetomidine is an effective drug for inducing emesis in cats and is a reasonable alternative to other alpha-agonists. The most successful dose with the least adverse effects was 20 µg/kg IM.
Randomised clinical trial comparing intramuscular alfaxalone and butorphanol sedation with or without midazolam in hyperthyroid cats.
Deutsch J, Finch N, Kästner S … +1 more , Hibbert A
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Sep · PMID 41017067 · Full text
ObjectivesThe sedation quality of intramuscular (IM) alfaxalone and butorphanol in combination with midazolam was investigated in hyperthyroid cats undergoing suitability assessment for radioiodine treatment.MethodsA tot...
ObjectivesThe sedation quality of intramuscular (IM) alfaxalone and butorphanol in combination with midazolam was investigated in hyperthyroid cats undergoing suitability assessment for radioiodine treatment.MethodsA total of 60 hyperthyroid cats undergoing diagnostic investigations were randomly allocated to receive butorphanol (0.3 mg/kg IM) and midazolam (0.2 mg/kg IM) with either alfaxalone (2 mg/kg IM) (BMA2) or alfaxalone (3 mg/kg IM) (BMA3), or butorphanol (0.3 mg/kg IM) with alfaxalone (3 mg/kg IM) (BA3). If required, additional alfaxalone (0.2 mg/kg) was administered intravenously. Cat Stress Score, response to injection, time to lateral recumbency, sedation score at 10, 15 and 20 mins and subsequent 10-min intervals, additional alfaxalone requirements, and time to first administration, recovery quality (excellent, fair, poor) and adverse effects were assessed. Thyroxine concentrations, gabapentin treatment and assessors were recorded. Heart and respiratory rate and arterial haemoglobin saturation were monitored every 5 mins. Data were compared using χ and Kruskal-Wallis testing. The multidimensional sedation score and predictors of sedation score were analysed using a mixed effect and linear regression model, respectively ( <0.05).ResultsNo significant predictors for sedation quality were identified. In all groups, the median sedation score was considered good and the median recovery score was fair. The sedation score over time across groups and cardiorespiratory variables were not significantly different. Additional alfaxalone was administered in 53 cats. In group BA3, additional alfaxalone was required significantly earlier ( = 0.043). Although sedated, muscle twitching was a commonly observed adverse effect in all groups, but head pawing was significantly increased in BA3 ( = 0.014).Conclusions and relevanceSedation and recovery quality were satisfactory with all protocols but the addition of midazolam prolonged sedation.
Randomized, non-inferiority clinical trial of three topical dermatophytosis treatments in shelter cats.
DeTar L, Janke KJ, Jacobson L
J Feline Med Surg · 2025 Sep · PMID 41017056 · Full text
ObjectivesTopical treatments, along with systemic oral antifungals, are the mainstay of infection and environmental control for cats with dermatophytosis in animal shelters. This study aimed to provide realistic expectat...
ObjectivesTopical treatments, along with systemic oral antifungals, are the mainstay of infection and environmental control for cats with dermatophytosis in animal shelters. This study aimed to provide realistic expectations of the performance of three commonly used topical treatments to help shelters minimize the length of stay and optimize feline welfare.MethodsA prospective, randomized, semi-blinded clinical trial compared treatment success and time to cure for miconazole chlorhexidine (MC) and hydrogen peroxide (HP) shampoos vs lime sulfur (LS) using a non-inferiority model. Cats with were enrolled at four US animal shelters, treated with oral itraconazole and randomized into three topical treatment groups. Treatment success was defined as mycological cure by 7 weeks, while inferiority was defined as requiring more than 1 additional week to achieve cure.ResultsA total of 76 cats were enrolled. LS significantly outperformed both alternatives in cure by 7 weeks. Time to cure analysis showed significant differences between LS (mean 27 days, range 7-45) vs MC (37, 14-62) ( = 0.04) and LS vs HP (36, 11-65) ( = 0.06). Although alternative products took significantly longer to cure, confidence intervals (CIs) around the difference of means included the inferiority margin: LS vs MC (9.66, 95% CI 0.7-18.5) and LS vs HP (8.54, 95% CI 0.44-16.6). Therefore, inferiority of the alternative products was suggestive but inconclusive. After controlling for confounders, a Cox proportional hazards analysis confirmed significantly poorer performance of MC ( = 0.003) and HP ( = 0.032) vs LS. Younger age also significantly prolonged treatment ( = 0.039), while intake type, co-housing and low body condition score did not. Shelter staff ratings showed no differences between products in terms of treatment unpleasantness, difficulty or cat reactions.Conclusions and relevanceIn this study, LS outperformed HP and MC in treating cats with . Younger cats took a longer time to achieve cure. If shelters or practitioners wish to use an alternative topical treatment to LS, then HP should be considered.
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