Neoplasia: The Danger of Feline Leukemia Virus
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) remains one of the most consequential retroviruses affecting domestic cats, not only due to its immunosuppressive effects but also its strong association with neoplastic diseases. Among FeLV-positive cats, neoplasia—particularly lymphoma—is a leading cause of mortality. 1. How does FeLV Causes Cancer? FeLV integrates its RNA into the host’s DNA, altering cellular control mechanisms. This can activate oncogenes or disrupt tumor suppressor genes, leading to unchecked cell proliferation. Unlike other viruses, FeLV has a unique ability to directly induce tumor formation, particularly in hematopoietic and lymphoid tissues. 2. Common Types of FeLV-Associated Tumors Lymphoma: The most common neoplasm in FeLV-positive cats, particularly mediastinal, multicentric, and spinal forms. Leukemia: Especially acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), often aggressive and rapidly progressive. Other Neoplasms: Less commonly, FeLV is associated with fibrosarcomas, myeloproliferative disorders, and osteochondromas. 3. Patient Profile and Risk Factors Age: FeLV-related tumors tend to develop in younger cats, often under 5 years of age. Transmission: FeLV spreads through saliva, nasal secretions, and close contact—making multi-cat environments particularly risky. Co-factors: Immunosuppression, co-infections (e.g., FIV), and genetic predisposition may worsen outcomes. 4. Clinical Signs: Generalized lymphadenopathy Dyspnea (especially with mediastinal involvement) Pale mucous membranes, anemia Weight loss, lethargy Neurologic deficits (with spinal lymphoma) GI signs (vomiting, diarrhea, melena) 5. Diagnostic tests: FeLV Testing: Rapid Test, ELISA and PCR testing to confirm infection status. Imaging: Thoracic radiographs, ultrasound, or CT scans for mass detection. Cytology/Histopathology: Fine needle aspirates or biopsies to confirm neoplastic origin. 6. Prevention: Vaccination: FeLV vaccines are effective at reducing infection rates, especially in high-risk populations. Routine Testing: Especially important for kittens, newly adopted cats, and multi-cat households. Environmental Control: Keeping FeLV-positive cats indoors and separated from uninfected cats. FeLV is not only an infectious threat but a potent oncogenic driver. Understanding its role in feline neoplasia underscores the importance of screening, prevention, and early intervention.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Dogs: Why my…?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in dogs and can affect their comfort, health, and behavior. In this article, we will address the common questions that dog owners have regarding their dog urination. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent complications such as kidney infections or bladder stones. 🔍 What is a UTI in Dogs? A urinary tract infection is typically caused by bacteria (most commonly Escherichia coli) from the rectum, skin, or hair near the entering the urethra and multiplying into the bladder. Less commonly, fungi, virus or other pathogens may be involved. UTIs can affect the lower urinary tract (bladder and urethra) or upper urinary tract (ureters and kidneys). Lower UTIs are more common and less severe, while upper UTIs is very dangerous and can be life-threatening. 🧬 Causes Bacterial contamination (e.g., from feces or environment) Poor hygiene, especially in long-haired or incontinent dogs Urinary retention (not urinating frequently) Underlying health problems: Diabetes mellitus Cushing’s disease Kidney disease Bladder stones or tumors Weakened immune system Congenital abnormalities of the urinary tract 🚨 Clinical Signs Some dogs show clear symptoms, while others may be asymptomatic, especially early on. Pet owners should watch for: Frequent urination (pollakiuria) Straining or pain while urinating Small amount or no urine (dysuria) Blood in urine (hematuria) Cloudy color or foul-smelling urine Accidents in the house (even if previously house-trained) Licking the genital area excessively Fever or lethargy (in severe or kidney-involved infections) Loss of appetite 🩺 Diagnosis A veterinarian will typically perform: Urinalysis – to check for bacteria, white blood cells, pH, crystals Urine culture and sensitivity test – to identify the exact bacteria and the most effective antibiotic Blood tests – to assess kidney function or underlying illness Imaging (X-ray or ultrasound) – if stones, tumors, or structural abnormalities are suspected 💊 Treatment Antibiotics – prescribed based on culture results Pain relief / anti-inflammatories Increased water intake – to flush the urinary system Dietary changes – especially if crystals or stones are present Surgery – in cases of tumors, large stones, or anatomical issues 🔄 Recurring UTIs Recurrent infections may signal underlying problems. Your vet might recommend: Advanced imaging Endoscopy Long-term antibiotic therapy Immune function testing 🛡️ Prevention Tips Ensure clean drinking water at all times (Flowing water is preferred) Encourage regular potty breaks Maintain proper hygiene, especially in long-haired breeds Regular vet checkups, especially for senior dogs Control underlying conditions like diabetes or bladder stones
Unmasking the Spread: How Antibiotic Resistance Travels and Grows
Antibiotic resistance is no longer just a human healthcare issue—it’s a shared threat across both medical and veterinary fields. As veterinarians, we stand at the front lines, where responsible antibiotic use can make a critical difference. But how exactly does antibiotic resistance develop and spread? Let’s break it down. Step 1: Antibiotic Use in Animals The journey begins on farms, where animals such as chickens, pigs, and cows are routinely given antibiotics. It could be from medicated feed, or disease therapy, and while this may help prevent disease and promote growth, it also creates a dangerous side effect—bacteria in the animals’ systems can become resistant to antibiotics. These drug-resistant bacteria are then carried in the animals’ bodies and waste. Step 2: Contamination Through Food and Water Animal waste, rich in resistant bacteria, is often used as fertilizer or finds its way into water sources. Crops grown in this environment may become contaminated. These bacteria can remain on or in the crops, making their way into the human digestive system when consumed. Step 3: Spread Through Meat Consumption Drug-resistant bacteria also linger on raw meat. If not properly handled or cooked, these bacteria can transfer to humans, adding another entry point for resistance to spread in the population. Step 4: Resistance in the Community Once in the human body, drug-resistant bacteria can settle and multiply. For example, someone like “John” may take antibiotics and unknowingly harbor resistant bacteria in his system. He then interacts with others in his household or community, unknowingly spreading the bacteria. Step 5: Amplification in Healthcare Settings The situation worsens if John seeks care in a hospital or nursing home. These environments often house vulnerable individuals and use intensive antibiotic treatments. Here, resistant bacteria can be spread directly from patient to patient or indirectly via the unclean hands of healthcare workers and contaminated surfaces. These healthcare facilities, intended to heal, can become hotspots for the spread of resistant germs. Step 6: Cycle Repeats When patients return home, they may continue to carry and transmit resistant bacteria, perpetuating the cycle. As these bacteria travel from animals to food, to people, to hospitals, and back into the community, antibiotic resistance continues to grow and evolve. Veterinary Responsibility To slow the spread: Use antibiotics only when necessary and with proper diagnostics. Follow strict hygiene protocols in clinics and farms. Educate clients on proper treatment adherence and the risks of misuse. Support preventive care, like vaccinations and good nutrition, to reduce infection risks. By staying informed and vigilant, veterinarians play a crucial role in preserving antibiotic effectiveness—for both animals and people.
Von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD) in Dogs
Von Willebrand Disease (vWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder in dogs. It’s caused by a deficiency or dysfunction of a specific blood clotting protein called von Willebrand factor (vWF). This protein helps blood platelets stick together to seal broken blood vessels and stop bleeding. Without enough functional vWF, dogs with vWD can experience excessive or prolonged bleeding. There are three types of von Willebrand disease: Type 1: There are low amounts of vWF proteins with normal structure. Type 2: Some vWF proteins are present,but there is an abnormal structure of the proteins which doesn’t function normally. Type 3: There are little to no vWF proteins available; this is the most severe form. Signs and Symptoms Symptoms of vWD can vary from mild to severe. Common signs include: Nosebleeds Bleeding gums Prolonged bleeding after surgery or injury Blood in urine or stool Bruising easily Diagnosis and Treatment A veterinarian can diagnose vWD through blood tests such as basic blood cell count, chemistry, and coagulation profile that measure vWF levels and clotting ability. DNA testing is also available to identify carriers, especially in breeds prone to the disease. There’s no cure for vWD, but mild cases often require no treatment. In more serious cases, veterinarians may use medications like Desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) or blood transfusions to manage bleeding episodes. It’s important to avoid medications like aspirin, heparin or sulfa-type antibiotics that can worsen bleeding. Prevention Responsible breeding practices are key to reducing the spread of vWD. Breeders should screen their dogs for the disease and avoid breeding affected animals.
Why Are Cats More Prone to CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease)?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can affect cats at any age but is more commonly diagnosed in middle-aged and senior cats, typically those over seven years old. There are several reasons that causes CKD, which are: 1. Natural Aging Process: Unlike dogs, whose kidneys tend to fail due to infections or inherited conditions, CKD in cats is often linked to gradual wear and tear on the kidneys as they age. 2. Low Thirst Drive: Cats evolved from desert animals and naturally have a low thirst drive. This means they don’t drink as much water as they should, putting extra strain on their kidneys. 3. Protein Metabolism: Cats require a high-protein diet, but their kidneys have to filter out protein waste. Over time, this can contribute to kidney damage. 4. Genetic Factors: Some breeds, like Persians, Siamese, and Abyssinians, are more genetically predisposed to kidney disease. 5. Silent Progression: CKD in cats often goes unnoticed because symptoms—like weight loss, increased thirst, and urination—develop slowly. By the time a cat is diagnosed, the disease is usually in an advanced stage.
Protecting Your Pup: Canine Distemper
Canine distemper is a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease caused by the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), a member of the Paramyxoviridae family. Despite advances in vaccination, this disease remains a significant threat, particularly in unvaccinated dogs and wildlife populations such as foxes, wolves, raccoons, and skunks. Pathogenesis CDV primarily targets the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems. After initial infection through respiratory droplets, the virus replicates in the lymphatic tissue of the respiratory tract, leading to viremia. If the immune response is insufficient, the virus spreads to epithelial and nervous tissues, causing multisystemic disease. Clinical Signs The clinical presentation of canine distemper can vary widely depending on the stage of infection and the systems affected. Common signs include: Respiratory: Nasal discharge, coughing, and pneumonia. Gastrointestinal: Vomiting and diarrhea. Neurological: Seizures, ataxia, myoclonus (involuntary muscle contractions), and behavioral changes. Dermatological: Hyperkeratosis of the footpads and nasal planum (“hard pad disease”). Some dogs may show mild signs, while others progress to severe systemic involvement. The neurological signs can appear weeks to months after recovery from the initial illness. Diagnosis Accurate diagnosis requires a combination of history, clinical signs, and laboratory testing: History: Exposure to unvaccinated or infected dogs. Imaging: Chest radiographs may reveal signs of pneumonia. Laboratory Tests: PCR testing of swabs (conjunctival, nasal, or throat). Rapid Test for CDV-specific antibodies/antigens. Cytology: Detection of inclusion bodies in epithelial cells or blood smears. Treatment There is no specific antiviral therapy for CDV. Treatment focuses on supportive care: Fluid Therapy: To correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Antibiotics: To prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections. Anticonvulsants: For managing seizures. Nutritional Support: To counteract anorexia and weight loss. Prognosis varies; dogs with mild respiratory or gastrointestinal signs may recover, while those with severe neurological involvement often have a guarded to poor prognosis. Prevention and Control Prevention primarily involves vaccination, which is highly effective and essential for puppies and unvaccinated dogs. Puppies should receive their first distemper vaccine at 6-8 weeks of age, followed by booster shots according to veterinary recommendations. Controlling the spread includes isolating infected animals, maintaining hygiene in kennels and communal spaces, and avoiding contact between unvaccinated pets and potentially infected animals. Public awareness and regular veterinary check-ups are key to reducing outbreaks and safeguarding canine health.
Protecting Dogs from the Threat of Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease caused by pathogenic spirochetes of the genus Leptospira. It affects a wide range of mammals, including domestic animals, wildlife, and humans. Leptospira are aerobic, gram-negative spirochetes characterized by their corkscrew-like motility. These bacteria are slow-growing and can survive for weeks to months in warm, moist environments such as urine-soaked soil or stagnant water. Leptospirosis is primarily spread through the urine of infected animals, particularly rodents, but dogs and other animals can also serve as carriers. Infected dogs may appear healthy while still shedding the bacteria in their urine, posing a risk to other animals and humans. · How Dogs Become Infected Dogs typically become infected when Leptospira bacteria enter the body through mucous membranes (Ex: mouth, nose, or eyes) or broken skin, such as cuts or scrapes. Common modes of transmission include: Direct Exposure: Contact with urine, contaminated water, or infected tissues. Environmental Contamination: Urine-soaked soil, food, bedding, or stagnant water sources. Rare Occurrences: Bacteria may also be spread through breeding, bites from infected animals, or transplacental from an infected mother dog to her puppies. · Clinical Signs of Leptospirosis in Dogs Leptospirosis can cause a range of clinical signs, varying from mild to severe. Common symptoms include: Loss of appetite Vomiting Lethargy Abdominal pain Diarrhea Jaundice (yellowing of the skin, gums, or eyes) Dehydration Polyuria, oliguria, hematuria or anuria. Epistaxis, melena, and hematemesis Weight loss Stiffness or muscle pain If left untreated, leptospirosis can progress to severe, life-threatening conditions such as: Kidney Failure: chronic kidney disease, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, renal tubular acidosis Liver Failure: Elevated ALP, ALT, bilirubin. Severe Lung Disease: Pulmonary hemorrhage. Bleeding Disorders: melena, hematuria, epistaxis, hematemesis and petechial hemmorhage on gums, mucous membranes. · Prevention for Leptospirosis Preventing leptospirosis in dogs requires reducing their exposure to Leptospira bacteria and implementing effective preventive strategies, such as: Leptospira vaccination. Limit exposure to risky environments such as stagnant or slow- moving water (ponds, lakes) and contact with wildlife, especially in high-risk areas. Control Rodent Populations as rodents are the primary carriers of Leptospira Clean and disinfect areas where dogs may have contact with urine, especially in kennels, dog parks, or multi-dog households. Regular veterinary check-ups help identify early signs of leptospirosis and ensure prompt treatment if infection occurs.
What is the Danger of AMR in animals?
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms—such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites—adapt to withstand medications designed to eliminate them or inhibit their growth. This phenomenon reduces the effectiveness of treatments, making infections more difficult to control and increasing the risk of disease transmission, severe illness, and mortality. For veterinarians, understanding AMR is essential due to the interconnected health of animals, humans, and ecosystems. WOAH (World Organization of Animal Health) highlights the significance of this issue, noting that 1.3 billion people rely on livestock for their livelihoods, and over 20 million depend on aquaculture AMR develops through natural processes, but it is accelerated by human and animal practices, including: Overuse of Antimicrobials: Unnecessary or excessive use of antibiotics in treating animal illnesses or for growth promotion in livestock. Incomplete Treatments: Failing to complete a prescribed course of antibiotics, allowing some pathogens to survive and develop resistance. Poor Infection Control: Inadequate hygiene and biosecurity measures that enable the spread of resistant strains. Improper disposal of unused and expired drugs: Improper disposal of unused and expired drugs can spread to the environment, causing resistance. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) significantly impacts animal health, making common infections harder to treat, leading to more severe cases, and increasing treatment costs. It also poses zoonotic risks, as resistant bacteria can transfer between animals and humans, creating serious public health threats. Economically, AMR reduces the effectiveness of antimicrobials, resulting in prolonged treatment durations, higher mortality rates, and increased financial burdens for farmers and pet owners.
WHAT ARE THE FACTORS THAT AFFECT “ANTIBIOTIC RANK”?
Factors Influencing the Ranking of Veterinary Antibiotics Resistance Potential One of the most critical factors in ranking veterinary antibiotics is their potential to promote antibiotic resistance. Drugs like fluoroquinolones and third-generation cephalosporins are closely monitored because of the risk that resistant strains can transfer from animals to humans through food consumption or direct contact. Spectrum of Activity Broad-spectrum antibiotics are generally ranked higher due to their ability to treat a wide variety of infections. However, overuse of these antibiotics increases the risk of resistance, so a balance must be struck between effectiveness and stewardship. Regulatory Guidelines Global health organizations such as the WHO and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) rank antibiotics based on their importance to human medicine, providing guidance on their use in animals. Critically important antibiotics are subject to more stringent regulations to limit the spread of resistance. Safety Profile The safety of an antibiotic is also a key factor. Drugs with severe side effects, such as aminoglycosides, are used sparingly despite their effectiveness, especially in companion animals. Other factors to consider: The route of administration should be taken into account alongside the categorization when prescribing antibiotics. The list below suggests routes of administration and types of formulation ranked from the lowest to the highest estimated impact on antibiotic resistance. Local individual treatment (e.g., udder injector, eye or ear drops) Parenteral individual treatment (intravenously, intramuscularly, subcutaneously) Oral individual treatment (i.e., tablets, oral bolus) Injectable group medication Oral group medication via drinking water/milk replacer Oral group medication via feed or premixes Source: Guidance for the rational use of antimicrobials (https://www.ava.com.au/siteassets/advocacy/gram-book—guidance-for-the-rational-use-of-antimicrobials.pdf) AMEG – EMA’s Antimicrobial Advice Ad Hoc Expert Group Report (https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/report/categorisation-antibiotics-european-union-answer-request-european-commission-updating-scientific-advice-impact-public-health-and-animal-health-use-antibiotics-animals_en.pdf) OIE LIST OF ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS OF VETERINARY IMPORTANCE (https://www.woah.org/app/uploads/2021/06/a-oie-list-antimicrobials-june2021.pdf)
Feline Herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1) Infection
Bioguard Corporation Feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) is a common viral infection in cats that primarily affects the upper respiratory system. It is a major cause of feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), which presents symptoms like sneezing, nasal discharge, and conjunctivitis (eye inflammation). FHV-1 is highly contagious among cats and is spread through direct contact with infected saliva, eye or nasal secretions, or contaminated environments. Once infected, many cats can become lifelong carriers of the virus, with symptoms reoccurring during times of stress or illness. Transmission A cat can become infected with this virus through direct exposure to viral particles. The virus is transmitted through saliva, as well as eye and nasal discharges from an infected cat. Infection occurs when a susceptible cat comes into contact with an infected cat or with contaminated objects, such as clothing, food and water bowls, or furniture that carry the viral particles. Though the virus is fragile in the environment and doesn’t survive for long outside the host, it remains a significant concern because many cats become lifelong carriers after infection. Even when no symptoms are present, stress or illness can trigger a flare-up, allowing the carrier to shed the virus and infect others. Incubation Period of FHV-1 Infection After a cat is infected with FVR, symptoms typically appear within two to five days, which is the incubation period of the disease. During this time, the cat can already infect other cats. Once symptoms develop, the active infection usually lasts about 10 to 20 days. Clinical Signs Upper respiratory signs of FVR include sneezing, nasal discharge, fever, loss of appetite, and coughing. Eye-related symptoms may encompass discharge, conjunctivitis or chemosis, changes in color, and corneal ulcers. In severe cases, the skin around the face may show signs such as redness, swelling, crusting, and hair loss. Other non-specific symptoms can include fever, lethargy (tiredness), anorexia (poor appetite), and enlarged lymph nodes. Diagnosis In most cases, a specific diagnosis of FHV infection is not necessary. A presumptive diagnosis of FVR is based primarily on a cat’s medical history and clinical signs combined with the findings on physical examination, particularly if the cat has evidence of a corneal infection. Corneal staining with fluorescein dye is often performed to look for any ulcers that may have developed. However, if a specific diagnosis is needed, ocular or oral swabs can be sent to a veterinary lab. There, the virus can be cultured or, more commonly detected by PCR. Additionally, evidence of the virus can be found in biopsies, which can help diagnose FHV-associated dermatitis. Prevention Preventing FVR involves several key strategies: Vaccination: Core vaccines for cats include the FVR vaccine, which significantly reduces the severity and duration of the illness, even if it doesn’t completely prevent infection. Hygiene and Sanitation: Good hygiene practices, such as washing your hands thoroughly before and after handling other cats, can help prevent the spread of FHV-1. Keeping your cat’s living environment clean is also important. Minimizing Stress: Stress can trigger the reactivation of the virus in carrier cats. Providing a stable, stress-free environment can help reduce the likelihood of outbreaks. Isolation: If the cat is infected, keeping her isolated from other cats can prevent the spread of the virus. This is especially important in multi-cat households, boarding facilities, and shelters. References Bergmann M, Speck S, Rieger A, et al. Antibody response to feline herpesvirus-1 vaccination in healthy adult cats. J Feline Med Surg. 2020 Apr;22(4):329-338. Cottingham E, Johnstone T, Hartley CA, et al. Update on feline alphaherpesvirus-1 seroprevalence in Victorian feral and owned cats. Aust Vet J. 2022 May;100(5):187-189. Thomasy SM, Maggs DJ. A review of antiviral drugs and other compounds with activity against feline herpesvirus type 1. Vet Ophthalmol. 2016 Jul;19 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):119-30.