Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery最新文献

Feline xanthinuria is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of purine metabolism, due to genetic mutations in the xanthine dehydrogenase (XDH) gene. It is characterised by excessive excretion and accumulation of xanthine in the urine, which can lead to the formation of xanthine uroliths. Xanthine uroliths may be present in both upper and lower urinary tract, causing clinical signs associated with renal disease and feline lower urinary tract disorders (FLUTD). Hallmark diagnostic findings of xanthinuria are elevated xanthine and hypoxanthine, and reduced uric acid concentrations in serum and urine. Uroliths can be submitted for compositional analysis to confirm the presence of xanthine and definitive diagnosis for xanthinuria. Management involves dietary modification to purine restricted diets, and increased fluid intake. Commercially available renal diets are preferred over urinary diets due to their lower protein composition, and consulting veterinary nutritionists is strongly recommended. Urinary alkalisation is not considered effective method for the dissolution of xanthine uroliths due to their poor solubility. Despite these interventions, recurrence of xanthine urolithiasis can occur. Given the limited treatment options and risk of recurrence, feline xanthinuria is a life-long condition which requires ongoing management and monitoring to mitigate complications. This review will provide an overview of the current understanding of the pathophysiological, metabolic and genetic aspects of the disorder and discuss current diagnostic approaches, management strategies and clinical expectations of feline xanthinuria. Findings from this review highlight the need for greater recognition of feline xanthine urolithiasis as a cause of FLUTD, given current gaps in diagnostic methods and treatment options. A deeper understanding of the condition will help veterinarians accurately differentiate it from other causes of FLUTD and support further research aimed at improving detection, prevention, and management of xanthinuria.

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Objectives: To evaluate the biomechanical properties of the combination of circumferential and Krackow sutures using FiberWire, compared to the conventional methods in feline transverse patellar fractures.

Methods: Twenty-four feline cadaveric pelvic limbs (mean weight 3.74 kg) were harvested, and the patella of each limb was osteotomized transversely to simulate a fracture. The limbs were then randomly assigned to one of three stabilization methods (n=8 per group). Group 1 (PFW) was stabilized with a modified tension band wire with a 0.9 mm Kirschner wire and No. 2 FiberWire. Group 2 (CFS) was stabilized with a circumferential and figure-of-eight suture with No. 2 FiberWire. Group 3 (CKS) was stabilized with a circumferential and Krackow suture with No. 2 FiberWire. All knee joints were fixed at a 135° neutral standing angle and tested by applying tensile force. Loads at 1, 2, and 3 mm gap formation, the maximum failure load and failure modes were recorded.

Results: At 1 mm displacement, Group 3 (96.1±18.6 N) was significantly stronger than Group 1 (p < 0.017). At 2 mm and 3 mm displacements, Group 3 (162.4±12.2 N and 238.6±25.4 N) was significantly stronger than both Group 1 and 2 (p < 0.017). The maximum failure load of Group 3 (352.3±31.0 N) was significantly higher than Group 1 and 2 (p < 0.017). The primary failure mode was pin pull-out (Group 1), suture pull-out (Group 2), and tendon rupture (Group 3).

Conclusions and relevance: The combination of circumferential and Krackow suture technique provides greater resistance to fragment displacement and construct failure than conventional methods in this ex vivo feline patella fracture model.

ObjectivesA comparative assessment of systolic blood pressure (SBP) measurement was carried out for anaesthetised and conscious cats by using two non-invasive approaches based on the Doppler method and a newly developed oscillometric instrument.MethodsSystemic blood pressure (SBP) was recorded on 131 occasions in 26 cats entering a shelter environment. Six of these cats were monitored while under a general anaesthetic for elective procedures and the rest were conscious during routine health assessment. A paired approach was followed using the Doppler method followed immediately by the oscillometric approach. Mean values and coefficient of variations were calculated. A normal distribution was confirmed before a standard Bland-Altman analysis was completed.ResultsThe mean SBP ± standard deviation for the 131 paired readings was 113.3 ± 23.9 mmHg and 116 ± 26.7 mmHg for the Doppler and oscillometric methods respectively. The small difference in means was not significant. Anaesthetised cats had significantly lower SBP values than those that were conscious. The data set for 16 cats with three replicated paired measurements and a subset of 12 with five such replicated measurements also provided similar normally distributed mean values and a high correlation coefficient. The Bland-Altman plot suggested a positive bias of the oscillometric approach of + 3.07 ± 12.3 mmHg (limits of agreement of -21.0 to 27.1 mmHg) and + 4.93 ± 9.38 mmHg (limits of agreement of -13.5 to 23.3 mmHg) for the 16 and 12 cat subgroups respectively. There was 100% agreement between the two methods in allocation to a hypertension class.Conclusions and relevanceThe results establish that the new AutoCAT+ instrument met some of the guidelines for assessing such instruments for veterinary use with cats with a normal range of blood pressure. Further work is needed with a larger data set spanning hypotension to hypertension for complete validation.

Recurrent constipation is common in cats. Long-term management should include dietary modifications.ObjectiveThis study evaluated the efficacy of a psyllium-enriched diet for the management of chronic constipation in cats.MethodsA multi-centre, controlled, blinded, 6-month trial, randomly assigned client-owned cats to a gastrointestinal test diet containing 6% psyllium or similar control diet containing 0.5% psyllium (as-fed values). Inclusion criteria included ≥2 constipation episodes in the previous 6 months and ≥2 constipation signs for ≥14 days. Constipation severity (stool consistency and frequency, and defecation pain/difficulty) was scored on Days 7, 30, 60, 90 and 180. Cats could switch diets if constipation signs did not improve, or the diet was not tolerated. Diet failure was defined as study withdrawal due to lack of improvement in constipation, new gastrointestinal signs, or diet switch. Cats switching diets were new cases in the group into which they moved, and statistical analyses (linear and linear mixed models) included them in both diet groups.ResultsOf 49 cats enrolled, 2 were removed for non-compliance, leaving 26 in the test group (18 assigned, 8 switched from control), and 30 in the control group (29 assigned, 1 switched from test). 19/26 and 11/30 cats completed 6 months of the test and control diet, respectively. The rate of diet failure for gastrointestinal reasons was significantly higher in the control (22/30 [73.3%]) versus test group (7/26 [26.9%]; P = 0.0005). Constipation signs improved significantly from baseline in both groups at each visit after Day 7. For stool consistency, improvement was significantly greater in the test versus control group except at Day 30.Conclusions and relevanceIn cats with chronic constipation, a 6% psyllium-supplemented gastrointestinal diet resulted in sustained improvement of clinical signs, a significantly lower probability of diet failure and greater improvements in stool consistency than a control gastrointestinal diet.

ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of a modified perineal urethrostomy (PU) technique using preputial mucosa in male cats with recurrent urethral obstruction, and to assess the associated learning curve based on surgical proficiency and complication trends.MethodsA total of 30 male cats with recurrent urethral obstruction treated between 2019 and 2024 were retrospectively reviewed. The modified PU involved reconstruction of the urethral stoma using preputial mucosa with partial dorsal skin anastomosis to enhance tissue stability. Postoperative urinary function and complications were assessed at 10, 21 and 60 days, and up to 3 years in selected cases. Surgical proficiency was analysed through a cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis of operative time and complication incidence.ResultsAll cats resumed voluntary urination within 48 h of surgery, and none exhibited persistent dysuria or urinary incontinence. Minor wound dehiscence occurred in two (6.7%) cats, and one (3.3%) cat developed a stomal stricture that resolved with balloon dilation; however, no revision surgeries were required. No cases of peristomal dermatitis or increased bacterial cystitis were detected. The median surgical time decreased from 71 mins in early cases to 54 mins in later procedures, and the CUSUM curve demonstrated a consistent decline in complication frequency, indicating progressive procedural mastery. Compared with previously reported stricture rates in the range of 7-9% for conventional Wilson-type PU techniques, our findings suggest that this modified technique results in lower complication rates and enhanced reproducibility, even in primary care settings.Conclusions and relevanceThis modified PU technique incorporating preputial mucosa provides stable urinary patency, low complication rates and favourable cosmetic results. By minimising direct mucocutaneous tension and preserving mucosal integrity, this approach may reduce the risk of stomal stenosis and postoperative infection. The procedure demonstrates a short learning curve and appears to be a reliable, anatomically sound alternative for managing recurrent urethral obstruction in cats.

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to describe the clinical, laboratory and thyroid imaging features of 17 adult cats with spontaneous hypothyroidism diagnosed over a 4-year period in four countries.MethodsThis multicenter case series included cats diagnosed with spontaneous hypothyroidism between 2021 and 2025. We collected data on cats' signalment, clinical signs, results of physical examination, routine laboratory and thyroid hormone testing, and thyroid imaging (scintigraphy, ultrasonography or CT). We also reviewed treatment data, including levothyroxine dosage, changes in serum thyroid hormone and creatinine concentrations, clinical progression and follow-up scintigraphy.ResultsCats were aged 2-14 years, with no breed predilection; 10 (58.8%) were male and seven (41.2%) female. Common clinical signs included lethargy, dermatologic signs (unkempt hair coat, increased shedding, dandruff, hair thinning), weight gain or obesity, and palpable goiter. The most common laboratory findings included azotemia (five cats), anemia (three cats) and worsening of pre-existing diabetes mellitus (two cats). A total of 13 (76.5%) cats had low serum thyroxine (T4), whereas all cats had high thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentrations. Thyroid imaging confirmed undetectable or atrophic thyroid tissue in 10 (58.8%) cats and bilateral thyroid enlargement in seven (41.2%). After levothyroxine treatment (median 133 µg/cat/day) in 15 cats, serum total T4 concentration increased and TSH fell. Treated cats became more alert and active, goiter resolved, azotemia resolved or improved, and two achieved remission of concurrent diabetes mellitus.Conclusions and relevanceThis study broadens current knowledge of spontaneous hypothyroidism in adult cats, a condition that remains underrecognized in clinical practice. Atrophic hypothyroidism appears more common than previously recognized, although goitrous hypothyroidism was identified in more than 40% of cats. Spontaneous hypothyroidism should be considered in cats with unexplained azotemia and in diabetic cats with worsening glycemic control. Levothyroxine supplementation reliably improved or resolved clinical signs in all treated cats.

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate species-specific attitudes among veterinary professionals by comparing preferences, confidence, professional and personal experiences, and education related to cats and dogs, identifying disparities and potential contributing factors.MethodsA 60-item survey was distributed electronically to members of an American veterinary medical college. Five key categories were assessed to compare cats with dogs: Confidence, Preference, Professional Experience, Personal Experience and Education. Responses were rated on a scale of 1-10. Data from 287 participants (faculty, staff and students) were analyzed using paired and independent sample t-tests to compare attitudes between species and potential influencing factors.ResultsDogs were rated significantly higher than cats across all five categories. Confidence in working with cats (mean 8.17) was lower than with dogs (mean 8.76; P <0.001). Confidence with cats increased with experience, while confidence decreased with experience with dogs. Preference for cats (mean 4.80) was significantly lower than for dogs (mean 7.22; P <0.001). Personal and professional experiences, as well as education regarding cats, were also rated significantly lower (all P <0.001). Cat allergies were associated with reduced preference for cats, while dog allergies corresponded to increased confidence and experience with cats.Conclusions and relevanceVeterinary professionals exhibit overall less favorable attitudes toward cats compared with dogs, particularly in confidence, preference and educational exposure. These disparities may negatively impact feline welfare. Professional experience with cats is correlated with increased confidence, suggesting that these opportunities should be increased in veterinary training. Allergy status may also have a role in determining attitudes and confidence with small animal species. Recognition of species-specific biases and understanding of potential contributing factors are critical for improving veterinary education and feline welfare.

ObjectivesThe aim of the study was to evaluate if diffusing the F3 facial-marking pheromone using a novel passive diffusion system can help cats to exhibit behavior suggesting "confidence" in a novel environment.MethodsA crossover trial was performed: cats were placed into two identical, separate experimental rooms for 10 minutes and exposed either to the treatment or to the control solution. Rooms were arranged similar to a normal living space, and the passive diffuser was placed on a shelf. The behaviour of 14 cats was evaluated during the standardised test. Different behavioural parameters were measured via video analysis and submitted to the statistical analysis to evaluate the emotional state of the cats. Data were analysed using general and generalized linear mixed models, as well as a proportion test.ResultsCats did not destroy or play with the diffuser. The statistical analysis showed that the F3-treated cats spent more time in the proximity of the diffuser (p=0.0180). Moreover, F3-treated cats also spent more time laying down (p=0.0191) and playing (p=0.0016) and exhibited more rubbing behaviour (p=0.0102) than controls, while they spent less time sitting (p=0.0180) than controls. Finally, F3-treated cats needed more time to approach the diffuser (p=0.0517). No differences were observed in the other studied behaviours.Conclusions and relevanceThese findings showed for the first time that adapting this novel passive diffusion system to diffuse the F3 pheromone impacts the behaviour of the treated cats, increasing behaviours associated with positive emotions (playing) and acclimation to and suggesting confidence in the environment (rubbing, resting). Moreover, this new system can be adapted for use at home since it is already used there and does not need electricity or heat to function, making it a promising tool to improve the wellbeing of pet cats in different situations.

ObjectivesThis study evaluated the therapeutic effects of subconjunctival injection of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for treating deep corneal ulcers and corneal perforation in cats.MethodsOf the 24 cats identified with a deep corneal ulcer or perforation, 17 received MSCs and medical treatment, of which six had deep corneal ulcers and 11 had corneal perforations. Of the seven cats that received only medical treatment, three cats had deep corneal ulcer and the other four cats had corneal perforation. All were monitored with fluorescein staining at 3-4 days and weekly assessments post-MSC injection until fluorescein-negative status was achieved.ResultsOutcomes were compared between cats treated with subconjunctival MSC injections and MSC-untreated cats. Based on the results, 88% (15/17) of the cats treated with MSCs became fluorescein-negative within 1-3 weeks, whereas 12% (2/17) of those receiving subconjunctival MSC injections achieved this outcome within 5-6 weeks. During follow-up period of 146 ± 138 days (range: 15-398 days) after MSC injection, recurrence of corneal perforations was observed in four cats which were ultimately complete healed. All deep corneal ulcers were healed uneventful. In the MSC-untreated group, 57% (4/7) achieved fluorescein-negative status within 3-7 weeks, while another 29% (2/7) experienced recurrent corneal perforation on days 3 and 58, requiring conjunctival graft surgery. Post-surgery, fluorescein-negative status was achieved 25 and 72 days after the initial treatment, respectively. One cat, 14% (1/7), had recurrent corneal perforation that had healed on day 103.Conclusions and relevanceThese findings highlighted the potential of MSC therapy in promoting corneal ulcer and corneal perforation healing in cats.