Pelvic fracture in a cat - precontouring of the plate based on allogenic 3D model and its application

Background: Pelvic fractures are commonly ecountered in cats. The ilium is included in approximately 50% of pelvic fractures in cats. Although conservative management of the pelvic fracture is known to have good prognosis, surgical fixation is recommended for the pelvic fracture with ilial fractures. 3D printing is an accurate digital modeling method by converting two-dimensional (2D) images into 3D model. 3D printing in veterinary medicine has been described in the various orthopedic diseases such angular limb deformities or fractures. The use of 3D model for presurgical planning is helpful to improve the results of complex surgical interventions. The objective of this study is to identify the usefulness of fabricating 3D models based on allogenic 2D data with aid of 3D printer program. Case: A 4-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat presented with hindlimb lameness. Radiography revealed left ilial body fracture with multiple fractures including left tuber ischium, pubic symphysis, and bilateral cranial ramuses of pubis. Digital imaging and communication in medicine (DICOM) files of the complete ilium were extracted from a computed tomography (CT) scan of a healthy and castrated male cat of same breed. Volume rendering images were prepared by Slicer program based on DICOM files. After acquired 3D data were converted to STL (Standard Triangulation Language) file for the 3D printing machine, non-fracture involved area was removed except the left ilium using the Meshmixer® software and then data was stored as STL files again. The length of 3D model was adjusted to actual size using 3D printer firmware based on actual size of the ilial length. Subsequently, 3D modelling was performed using 3D printer. The plate was precontoured to conform to the lateral surface of the 3D model. Internal fixation using precontoured plate resulted in accurate bone alignment. The alignment of the ilium remained appropriate throughtout the follow-up period. Complete union was identified 6 months after surgery. Discussion: Although the most common method for the ilial fractures is the application of bone plates to the lateral side of the ilium, bone plate fixation is more challenging in cats owing to the small bone size and small surface area of the fracture sites compared to dogs. Therefore, it is important to make accurate presurgical planning for successful result of a surgery. 3D printing based on actual patient have several limitations including time for complete printing process and additional anesthetic episode to acquire CT images. However, in simple cases, a presurgical CT scan may not be necessary if the plate can be precisely precontured based on the data from the other patient. In this way, the additional financial burden for CT examination also might be reduced. On the other hand, technical difficulty of utilizing hardware and software, and financial availability were another drawback. However, in this current study, most of limitations regarding conventional 3D printing based on actual patient were overcome by the application of the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology with allogenic data. In the current study, total time for fabrication of 3D model based on FDM technology, was less than 3 h, which are much shorter than the time for conventional 3D printing. The difference of the ilial length between the actual patient and the 3D model was adjusted through the firmware program. Thus, differences of the conformation or size between the 3D model and the ilium of the patient was negligible during the surgery, although 2D images were not acquired from actual patient. Intraoperative contouring of the plate was not required. In conclusion, through presurgical plate contouring by the 3D bone template based on non-patient specific data, successful treatment of the ilial fracture was possible.

Parasitic contamination of fresh vegetables sold in open markets: a public health threat / Contaminação parasítica de vegetais frescos vendidos em mercados abertos: uma ameaça para a saúde pública

Vegetables eating raw are a leading source of transmission of infective forms of pathogenic internal parasites among human beings. This research was conducted from April to October, 2017 to assess the parasitic contamination of vegetables sold at main vegetable markets in districts Lower Dir and Peshawar, Pakistan. Eight hundred specimens of different vegetables were purchased and soaked in physiological saline solution, shaken with a mechanical shaker for 20 minutes and processed by sedimentation concentration method. Results revealed that only 19.7% (n=158/800) of the vegetables were found to be contaminated with single or multiple parasite species. Ascaris lumbricoides (the large round worm) 12.3% (n=99/800) was the most commonly detected pathogen and Taenia saginata (the beef tapeworm) 1.62% (n=13/800) was the least frequently detected one. Interestingly, significant p value (p>0.05 at 95%CI) between the number of examined and contaminated for all the variables studied including education status of the vendors, markets location, type of vegetables, means of display, washed before display, washing source of water and market type. The findings of this study evidenced that consumption of raw vegetables possesses great risk of getting parasitic infections in Lower Dir and Peshawar districts, Pakistan. Instructing the sellers and the public about parasitic disease transfer and their hygiene can reduce the infection rate of parasites of human origin.

Os vegetais crus são a principal fonte de transmissão de formas infecciosas de parasitas internos patogênicos entre os seres humanos. Esta pesquisa foi realizada de abril a outubro de 2017 para avaliar a contaminação parasitária de vegetais vendidos nos principais mercados de vegetais nos distritos de Lower Dir e Peshawar, Paquistão. Oitocentos exemplares de diferentes vegetais foram adquiridos e embebidos em solução salina fisiológica, agitados em agitador mecânico por 20 minutos e processados pelo método de concentração por sedimentação. Os resultados revelaram que apenas 19,7% (n = 158/800) das hortaliças estavam contaminadas com uma ou várias espécies de parasitas. Ascaris lumbricoides (o verme redondo grande) 12,3% (n = 99/800) foi o patógeno mais comumente detectado e Taenia saginata (a tênia da carne) 1,62% (n = 13/800) foi o menos freqüentemente detectado. Curiosamente, valor de p significativo (p> 0,05 em IC de 95%) entre o número de examinados e contaminados para todas as variáveis estudadas incluindo escolaridade dos vendedores, localização dos mercados, tipo de vegetais, meios de exposição, lavado antes da exposição, fonte de lavagem de água e tipo de mercado. Os resultados deste estudo evidenciaram que o consumo de vegetais crus possui grande risco de contrair infecções parasitárias nos distritos de Lower Dir e Peshawar, no Paquistão. Instruir os vendedores e o público sobre a transferência de doenças parasitárias e sua higiene pode reduzir a taxa de infecção de parasitas de origem humana.

Fetal distress during the last third of pregnancy in bitches - evaluation by Doppler ultrasound imaging

Background: Diagnostic ultrasound has revolutionized obstetric practice. Doppler techniques provided in vivo studies of the fetus-placental and uterus-placental circulations, in an increasingly precise manner. The assessment of fetal well-being is essential in obstetric practice, however, in veterinary medicine, there is a deficit of ultrasound parameters related to fetal distress. The main of this research was to determine the hemodynamic characteristics and behavior, through Doppler ultrasonography, of maternal-fetal vessels during the final third of gestation in bitches with fetuses under stress, as well as correlating them with each other and with fetal distress. Materials, Methods & Results: An observational, prospective study was carried out, in which 30 healthy bitches were examined, during the last third of pregnancy, with fetuses under fetal distress. Fetuses were evaluated in 2 stages: (1st): 50-54 days and (2nd): 55-60 days of gestation. All fetuses were calmly assessed, one by one, and fetal heart rate (FHR) was measured 5 times, for at least 3 min, to identify and confirm fetal distress. At least 3 fetuses were evaluated in each bitch and each measurement was performed in triplicate, setting a hemodynamic mean for each value evaluated. The flow pattern in the middle cerebral artery (MCA), internal carotid artery (ICA) and umbilical artery (UA) was evaluated. The analyzed vessel was initially visualized in B mode, followed by evaluation by color and spectral Doppler. The variables observed were: peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV) and the resistivity (RI) and pulsatility (PI) index, as well as the systole/diastole ratio (S/D). The analysis of RI and PI of the umbilical artery showed a statistically significant difference between the mean values found for the times studied, increasing from time 1 to time 2. For middle cerebral and internal carotid arteries, PI, RI and the relationship systole/diastole (S/D), showed a statistically significant difference between the mean values found for the times studied, decreasing from time 1 to time 2. Discussion: Fetal heart rate (HR) findings are considered normal above 200 beats per minute (bpm), only if preceded by acceleration and deceleration. This fact confirms the presence of fetal stress, by this parameter, for the fetuses in the present study. Corroborating the picture of fetal distress, another study concluded that HR tends to increase up to 20 days before delivery, a fact that did not occur in the study in question, where animals in the same gestational period were evaluated. Recent research has concluded that an elevated umbilical artery PI at 28 weeks of gestation, in the absence of fetal growth restriction or prematurity, is associated with some adverse cognitive findings in 12-year-olds children. In the present study, a progressive increase in this index was observed throughout the final third of pregnancy. Although the pups were not monitored after birth, this data serves as a warning for veterinarians, and can be useful in the assessment and diagnosis of possible postnatal nervous alterations. Like what was found in the present study, a study reported that from the 4th week to birth, the PSV of the umbilical artery (UA) increased almost linearly, with high significance. For the middle cerebral arteries, the PI showed a statistically significant difference between the mean values found for the times studied, however, decreasing throughout the final third of pregnancy.

Vagal indigestion in cattle: a retrospective study / Indigestão vagal em bovinos: estudo retrospectivo

This study aimed to carry out a retrospective study of vagal indigestion cases diagnosed in cattle admitted at the Garanhuns Bovine Clinic, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco campus. This syndrome, caused by dysfunctions of the vagus nerve and characterized by motility disorders of the pre-stomachs and abomasum, represented 5.5% (70/1279) of digestive cases diagnosed in a period of 10 years and had an unfavorable prognosis in 78.3% of cases. Type II vagal indigestion was the most prevalent, accounting for 40% of cases, followed by type I (24.3%) and types III and IV, which accounted for 18.6% and 10.0% of cases, respectively. Vagal indigestion in 67.1% (47/70) of cases occurred as a result of other illnesses, such as traumatic reticuloperitonitis (27.7%), lung diseases (12.8%), gastric impaction (10.6%), abomasal ulcer (10.6%), lymphosarcoma (6.4%), and liver abscesses (6.4%). Motor changes in the gastrointestinal tract, such as hypomotility, abdominal distension, and bloat, as well as their consequences, were the most frequent clinical signs. Laboratory, ultrasonographic, and anatomopathological alterations mainly originate from the primary illnesses present in each case. The approach of this disease is essential due to its clinical and economic importance for livestock to expand the knowledge of its etiopathogenesis, thus contributing to a more accurate diagnosis by veterinarians working in the field of internal medicine for cattle.

Objetivou-se realizar um estudo retrospectivo dos casos de indigestão vagal diagnosticados em bovinos atendidos na Clínica de Bovinos de Garanhuns, campus da Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Essa síndrome, causada por disfunções do nervo vago e caracterizada por transtornos de motilidade dos pré-estômagos e abomaso, representou 5,5% (70/1279) dos casos digestivos diagnosticados num período de 10 anos e apresentou prognóstico desfavorável em 78,3% dos casos. A indigestão vagal tipo II foi a mais prevalente, representando 40% dos casos, seguida do tipo I (24,3%) e dos tipos III e IV, que corresponderam a 18,6% e 10,0%, respectivamente. Em 67,1% (47/70) dos casos, a indigestão vagal ocorreu em consequência de outras enfermidades, tais como reticuloperitonite traumática (27,7%), doenças pulmonares (12,8%), compactação gástrica (10,6%), úlcera de abomaso (10,6%), linfossarcoma (6,4%) e abscessos hepáticos (6,4%). As alterações motoras do trato gastrointestinal, tais como hipomotilidade, distensão abdominal e timpania, assim como suas consequências foram os sinais clínicos mais frequentes. As alterações laboratoriais, de imagem e anatomopatológicas são oriundas principalmente das enfermidades primárias presentes em cada caso. Devido sua importância clínica e econômica para a bovinocultura, é primordial a abordagem dessa enfermidade, visando ampliar o conhecimento da sua etiopatogenia contribuindo dessa forma para um diagnóstico mais preciso pelos médicos veterinários atuantes na área de medicina interna de bovinos.

Is the addition of spray homeopathic in feed able to change dog behavior? / A adição de spray homeopático na ração é capaz de alterar o comportamento de cães?

This study aimed to determine if the homeopathic formulation based on Natrum muriaticum, Matricaria, Chamomilla, and Ignatia amara was effective for stress control in dogs in order to prevent and/or reduce the frequency of unwanted behaviors. Ten male beagle dogs were divided into two groups, with five animals per group. The control group was animals receiving 0.5 mL/day of placebo via spray in the feed for 30 consecutive days as a preventive. The treated group received 0.5 mL/day of tested drug spray in the feed for 30 consecutive days as a preventive. Behavioral tests were performed at two time points, before and after receiving the tested drug. We performed the following behavioral tests: a) persons known and unknown in the internal and external environment; b) interaction with toys; c) interaction with an unknown dog, d) test with a leash; and e) firecracker test. There was more engagement in digging and scaling the fence in the control group than in the treatment group (P < 0.05). The animals that received homeopathic medicine sat 2.54 times longer than the control (P = 0.0269). Dogs that received homeopathic showed 4.49 times more interest in general at D30 than at D1 (P = 0.0214). Animals in the treated group showed an 83% less chance of urinating than the control group in the tests involving displacements. We conclude that the preventive addition of homeopathic medicine containing Natrum muriaticum, Chamomilla, and Ignatia amara reduced undesirable behaviors related to anxiety and increased the incidence of interest behavior.(AU)

Este estudo visou determinar se a formulação homeopática baseada em Natrum muriaticum, Matricaria, Chamomilla, e Ignatia amara foi eficaz para o controle de stress em cães, a fim de prevenir e/ou reduzir a frequência de comportamentos indesejados. Dez cães beagle machos foram divididos em dois grupos, com cinco animais por grupo. O grupo controle recebeu 0,5 mL/dia de placebo via spray na ração durante 30 dias consecutivos, como preventivo. O grupo tratado recebeu 0,5 mL/dia de homeopático via spray na ração durante 30 dias consecutivos, como preventivo. Os testes comportamentais foram realiza-dos em dois momentos, antes e depois de receber o fármaco testado. Foram realizados os seguintes testes comportamentais: a) pessoas conhecidas e desconhecidas no ambiente interno e externo; b) interação com brinquedos; c) interação com um cão desconhecido, d) teste com a guia; e teste com fogos de artifício. Houve um aumento nos comportamentos cavar e escalar a grade no controle (P < 0,05). Os animais que receberam o homeopático sentaram-se 2,54 vezes mais do que o grupo con-trole (P = 0,0269). Os cães que receberam homeopático mostraram 4,49 vezes mais interesse em geral no D30 do que no D1 (P = 0,0214). Os animais do grupo tratado mostraram uma probabilidade 83% menor de urinar do que o grupo controle nos testes envolvendo deslocamento. Concluímos que a adição preventiva de medicamentos homeopáticos contendo Natrum muriaticum, Chamomilla, e Ignatia amara reduziu os comportamentos indesejáveis relacionados com a ansiedade e aumentou a incidência de comportamentos de interesse.(AU)

Aspectos epidemiológicos da infecção por Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma platys e Mycoplasma spp. em gatos domésticos / Epidemiological aspects of infection by Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma platys and Mycoplasma spp. in domestic cats

Hemoparasitoses vêm se tornando cada vez mais importantes na clínica médica de pequenos animais. Dentre os agentes causadores encontramos Ehrlichiacanis, Anaplasmaplatys., e Mycoplasma spp., torna-se de grande importância conhecer a epidemiologia nos gatos domésticos. Objetivou-se com esta pesquisa fazer um levantamento retrospectivo de fichas de gatos advindos de consultas no Hospital Veterinário Mário Dias Teixeira (HOVET) que realizaram exame de Reação de Cadeia da polimerase (PCR) no laboratório de biologia molecular, na Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia, no ano de 2018 e 2019. No total foram 72 amostras de gatos domésticos processadas, sendo 33 machos e 39 fêmeas, 70 animais SRD e 2 Siameses, todos com trombocitopenia, além de outros sinais clínicos que os levaram a precisar de atendimento veterinário, foram categorizados os meses de entrada e processamento das amostras, bairros dos animais e grupos etários. De todos os animais testados, 34,7% obtiveram diagnóstico positivo para uma das enfermidades, sendo o gênero Mycoplasma spp. o que mais prevaleceu em amostras positivas, com maior frequência em fêmeas adultas, bem como foi descrita ocorrência de E. canis apenas nesse sexo, já A. platysfoi descrito com maior frequência em machos, além de achados de infecções concomitantes observado entre os agentes Anaplasmae Mycoplasma. Concluímos que os gatos atendidos no HOVET possuíam parasitismo por diferentes agentes infecciosos.

Hemoparasitosis have become increasingly important in the small animals' internal medicine. Among the causal agents, there are Ehrlichiacanis, Anaplasmaplatys. and Mycoplasma spp., which give the understanding of the epidemiology in domestic cats a great significance. This research aimed to make a retrospective survey of records from cats that came from appointments at the Veterinary Hospital Mário Dias Teixeira (HOVET) and underwent the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test at the molecular biology laboratory, at the Amazônia Federal Rural University (UFRA), in the years of 2018 and 2019. In total, 72 samples of domestic cats were processed, from which 33 were males and 39 females, 70 of them were mongrel cats and 2 siamese, all of them showed thrombocytopenia amongst other clinical signs that led them to need a veterinary appointment, the months of admission, processing of the samples, districts the animals came from and age group were categorized. 34,7% of all the animals tested showed positive results for one of the diseases, with the genus Mycoplasma spp. being the most prevalent in positive samples, showing a higher rate in adult females, as the occurrence of E. canis was reported only in females, while A. platys was reported with a higher rate in males, as well as concomitant infections following the observation of the agents Anaplasma and Mycoplasma. In conclusion, the cats admitted at HOVET showed parasitism by different infectious agents.

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in cats

Background: Esophageal neoplasms are rarely reported in cats. The frequency rate is less than 0.5% and those neoplasms are usually malignant. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is an idiopathic epithelial neoplasm, invasive and metastatic that can induce partial or complete obstruction of the esophageal lumen. There is no breed or sex predisposition, and it is more common in cats over 8-years-old. Esophageal SCC is more frequent in the middle third of the esophagus. The prognosis is poor, as the cats are usually diagnosed at an advanced stage. This report aims to describe clinical, endoscopic, radiographic, and pathological features of two cases of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in cats. Cases: A 11-year-old neutered male cat presenting regurgitation, weight loss, anorexia and dyspnea was referred to veterinary internal medicine care. Simple and contrast-enhanced radiographic images of the cervical and thoracic regions showed an alveolar pattern in the cranial lung lobes and signs of esophageal lumen irregularity and dilatation in the mediastinum topography. The upper digestive endoscopy showed a dilated esophageal lumen, and an irregular mass was observed in the thoracic esophagus involving the entire esophageal circumference. Biopsy fragments were collected, and the histopathological result was compatible with squamous cell carcinoma. The second case was a 10-year-old neutered male cat presenting hyporexia, regurgitation, dyspnea, tachypnea, and abnormal breath sounds. The ultrasound of the chest showed 3 amorphous hypoechogenic and heterogeneous areas in the right and left hemithorax between parietal and visceral pleura. The cytological examination was compatible with a malignant epithelial tumor. The patient died 3 months after the onset of clinical signs. At gross exam, it was observed a friable, irregular, and ulcerated mass of 5.0 x 3.0 cm in the middle third of the esophagus...

Canine mast cell tumour lomustine's sensitization by tyrosine kinase inhibitors

Background: Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) may sensitize neoplasms to conventional antineoplastic agents, however such studies are scarse in the veterinary literature and there is no in vivo study about this subject. Although the literature recommend consensual about the use of masitinib for unresectable or metastatic MCTs, the potential of tumour sensitization to chemotherapeutic agents exerted by the drug is poorly explored in veterinary medicine. The objective of this paper was to report, for the first time, the sensitization of 2 canine mast cell tumours (MCTs) to lomustine, with the use of 2 tyrosine kinase inhibitors: masitinib and toceranib. Cases: Two dogs were referred due tumour recurrence in the left pelvic limb (dog 1), and unilateral mass in the right nasal mucocutaneous region (dog 2). The first case was a 8-year-old female Pinscher, and the second case refers to a 8-year-old male mixed-breed dog. Fine needle aspiration of both lesions was performed, and the cytological analysis were compatible with high grade canine MCT. In the first case, it was started a chemotherapeutic treatment with intravenous vinblastine (2 mg/m² ), associated with prednisolone (40 mg/m2 , every 24 h for 7 days), followed by 25 mg/m2 every 24 h, for more 30 days, tramadol (4 mg/kg every 8 h, until new recommendations) and gabapentin (3 mg/kg every 12 h, until new recommendations). However, there was no objective response, and vinblastine was substituted by lomustine (60 mg/m2 every 21 days), however there was also no response after 2 doses. After masitinib importation, the same was started at 12.5 mg/kg orally every 24 h, but there was also no objective response. However, after new lomustine administration the lesion showed complete remission. The second dog initiated its treatment with toceranib, recently licensed in Brazil, at a dosage of 2.7 mg/kg every 48 h, and after 30 days, there was partial remission. However, the remaining lesion still deemed unresectable, and systemic chemotherapy with lomustine (50 mg/m2 ) was initiated along with continuous toceranib. After 3 weeks of the first chemotherapy complete remission was noted and a second dose was administered. Once the patient remained in complete clinical remission, only toceranib was maintained at the same dose. After 11 months using the toceranib, there was sign of disease recurrence and lomustine was re-initiated resulting in complete remission. Discussion: The TKIs masitinib and toceranib might be considered the first-line therapy for unresectable and/or metastatic canine MCT, but also for those cases with confirmed internal tandem duplications in the exon 11 of the c-KIT protooncogene. Masitinib appears to be more selective than others TKI, such as toceranib, imatinib, dasatinib and sunitinib, because it causes weak inhibition of BCR/ABL (breakpoint cluster region-Abelson), Fms (macrophage colony-stimulating factor receptor), Flt-3 (FMS-like tyrosine kinase-3) and VEGFR (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor), which may partially explains its increased safety and lower risk of cardiotoxicity. In the first case, the animal has been treated with lomustine associated to masitinib and showed a progression-free interval of 33 days, however, the response reported may have been lower, due previously exposition to chemotherapeutic agents, which might compromise the response to TKI. The second case, with the association of lomustine and toceranib, was followed up for 365 days, presenting only one recurrence in the final third of the follow-up, however, with subsequent new complete remission. Sensitization of canine MCT to lomustine with TKIs increases the therapeutic possibilities for this neoplasm, mainly in patients with advanced stage and high-grade tumours.

Prevalence and risk factors for urinary incontinence in bitches five years after ovariohysterectomy / [Prevalência e fatores de risco para incontinência urinária em cadelas cinco anos após ovário histerectomia]

Ovariohysterectomy (OHE) is the most performed elective surgery in veterinary medicine. Although this procedure brings benefits both to the animal and public health, acquired urinary incontinence is a possible complication resultant from it. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of urinary incontinence and evaluate size, breed, and time of surgery as risk factors in a population of spayed female dogs in the Hospital de Clínicas Veterinárias da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, in the year of 2013, through the use of a multiple-choice screening instrument. Identified estimated prevalence was 11.27% and main risk factors were as follows: large size (OR = 7.12 IC95% = 1.42 - 35.67), Rottweiler breed (OR = 8.92; IC95% = 5.25 - 15.15), Pit-bull breed (OR = 4.14; IC95% = 2.19 - 7.83), and Labrador breed (OR = 2.73; IC95% = 1.53 - 4.87). Time of surgery was not considered a risk factor for urinary incontinence in this population (OR = 1.45; IC95% = 0.86 - 2.40). Even though most owners reported a small impact on their relationship with the animal, urinary incontinence hazard should be addressed before spaying.(AU)

A ovário-histerectomia (OHE) é a cirurgia eletiva mais realizada em medicina veterinária. Embora seja um procedimento que beneficie a saúde pública e do animal, a incontinência urinária adquirida é uma complicação possível resultante desse procedimento. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a prevalência de incontinência urinária e avaliar porte, raça e momento da castração como fatores de risco em uma população de cadelas castradas no HCV/UFRGS, no ano de 2013, através do uso de um instrumento de triagem de múltipla escolha. A prevalência estimada foi de 11,27% e os principais fatores de risco foram: grande porte (OR = 7,12 IC95% = 1,42 - 35,67), raça Rottweiler (OR = 8,92; IC95% = 5,25 - 15,15), raça Pitbull (OR = 4,14; IC95% = 2,19 - 7,83) e raça Labrador (OR = 2,73; IC95% = 1,53 - 4,87). O tempo da cirurgia não foi considerado fator de risco para incontinência urinária nessa população (OR = 1,45; IC95% = 0,86 - 2,40). Embora a maioria dos proprietários tenha relatado um pequeno impacto no relacionamento com o animal, a possibilidade de incontinência urinária deve ser devidamente discutida antes da castração.(AU)

Global market for veterinary herbal products during the 2018-2019 period / Mercado mundial de produtos fitoterápicos veterinários durante o período 2018-2019

The industrial manufacturing of natural products for veterinary use represents a major weakness in the veterinary sector despite increased interest and the traditional ancestral knowledge that supports them. A cross-sectional, descriptive observational study was conducted to characterize the veterinary herbal products marketed worldwide during 2018 and 2019. A comprehensive thematic search limited to the 2018-2019 period was performed in the ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, ResearchGate, and Academic Search Complete databases. The investigation identified 487 products registered in the global market manufactured by 54 companies, led by India, The Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. The market segments of animal production and phytomedicines were dominant with 73.7% and 53.0% of products, respectively. Cattle (22.2%), sheep-goats (16.2%), and canines (16.2%) were the most favored species. The most represented therapeutic indications were those intended to treat gastrointestinal disorders (30.47%), antimicrobials (16.66%), and antiparasitic agents (10.47%). The families Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, Apiaceae, Malvaceae, and Rutaceae stood out because of their frequent use, encompassing 35.0% of the 137 declared species. Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees and Withania somnifera (Lin) Dunal were the most important species. Oral formulations for internal use (72%) and liquids (51%) in 100 mL, 500 mL, and 1 L presentations showed the highest prevalence on the market. The global market for veterinary herbal products during the 2018-2019 period was relevant in the productive and medical animal sector. No differences were found between medicinal plant species used to formulate herbal products for human and animal use.(AU)

A fabricação industrial de produtos naturais para uso animal é uma das grandes fragilidades do setor veterinário, apesar de um crescente interesse e do suporte dado pelos conhecimentos tradicionais ancestrais. Foi realizado um estudo observacional descritivo transversal para caracterizar os fitoterápicos veterinários comercializados mundialmente no período de 2018-2019 através de uma busca temática exaustiva nas bases de dados ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, ResearchGate e Academic Search Complete. O estudo mostrou a existência de 487 produtos registrados no mercado mundial, fabricados por 54 empresas, lideradas pela Índia, Holanda e Reino Unido. Os segmentos Danimal produtivo e fitomedicamentos dominam o mercado com 73,7% e 53,0% dos produtos, respectivamente. Bovinos (22,2%), ovinos-cabras (16,2%) e caninos (16,2%) foram as espécies mais favorecidas. As indicações terapêuticas mais representadas foram aquelas destinadas à correção de distúrbios gastrointestinais (30,47%), antimicrobianos (16,66%) e antiparasitários (10,47%). Devido à alta frequência de uso, destacam-se as famílias Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, Apiaceae, Malvaceae e Rutaceae, que compreendem 35,0% das 137 espécies declaradas a saber, Andrographis paniculata(Burm.f.) Nees e Withania somnífera (Lin) Dunal, são as mais importantes. Constatou-se que as formulações para uso interno via oral (72%) e líquida (51%) em embalagens de 100, 500 e 1000 mL são as que prevalecem no mercado. O mercado global de produtos fitoterápicos durante o período de 2018-2019 foi relevante para animais produtivos e o setor médico. Não foram encontradas diferenças entre as espécies de plantas medicinais utilizadas em formulações de produtos fitoterápicos para uso humano e animal.(AU)

Global market for veterinary herbal products during the 2018-2019 period / Mercado mundial de produtos fitoterápicos veterinários durante o período 2018-2019

The industrial manufacturing of natural products for veterinary use represents a major weakness in the veterinary sector despite increased interest and the traditional ancestral knowledge that supports them. A cross-sectional, descriptive observational study was conducted to characterize the veterinary herbal products marketed worldwide during 2018 and 2019. A comprehensive thematic search limited to the 2018-2019 period was performed in the ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, ResearchGate, and Academic Search Complete databases. The investigation identified 487 products registered in the global market manufactured by 54 companies, led by India, The Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. The market segments of animal production and phytomedicines were dominant with 73.7% and 53.0% of products, respectively. Cattle (22.2%), sheep-goats (16.2%), and canines (16.2%) were the most favored species. The most represented therapeutic indications were those intended to treat gastrointestinal disorders (30.47%), antimicrobials (16.66%), and antiparasitic agents (10.47%). The families Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, Apiaceae, Malvaceae, and Rutaceae stood out because of their frequent use, encompassing 35.0% of the 137 declared species. Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees and Withania somnifera (Lin) Dunal were the most important species. Oral formulations for internal use (72%) and liquids (51%) in 100 mL, 500 mL, and 1 L presentations showed the highest prevalence on the market. The global market for veterinary herbal products during the 2018-2019 period was relevant in the productive and medical animal sector. No differences were found between medicinal plant species used to formulate herbal products for human and animal use.(AU)

A fabricação industrial de produtos naturais para uso animal é uma das grandes fragilidades do setor veterinário, apesar de um crescente interesse e do suporte dado pelos conhecimentos tradicionais ancestrais. Foi realizado um estudo observacional descritivo transversal para caracterizar os fitoterápicos veterinários comercializados mundialmente no período de 2018-2019 através de uma busca temática exaustiva nas bases de dados ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, ResearchGate e Academic Search Complete. O estudo mostrou a existência de 487 produtos registrados no mercado mundial, fabricados por 54 empresas, lideradas pela Índia, Holanda e Reino Unido. Os segmentos Danimal produtivo e fitomedicamentos dominam o mercado com 73,7% e 53,0% dos produtos, respectivamente. Bovinos (22,2%), ovinos-cabras (16,2%) e caninos (16,2%) foram as espécies mais favorecidas. As indicações terapêuticas mais representadas foram aquelas destinadas à correção de distúrbios gastrointestinais (30,47%), antimicrobianos (16,66%) e antiparasitários (10,47%). Devido à alta frequência de uso, destacam-se as famílias Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, Apiaceae, Malvaceae e Rutaceae, que compreendem 35,0% das 137 espécies declaradas a saber, Andrographis paniculata(Burm.f.) Nees e Withania somnífera (Lin) Dunal, são as mais importantes. Constatou-se que as formulações para uso interno via oral (72%) e líquida (51%) em embalagens de 100, 500 e 1000 mL são as que prevalecem no mercado. O mercado global de produtos fitoterápicos durante o período de 2018-2019 foi relevante para animais produtivos e o setor médico. Não foram encontradas diferenças entre as espécies de plantas medicinais utilizadas em formulações de produtos fitoterápicos para uso humano e animal.(AU)

Temperature measurements in cats using digital, mercury and tympanic infrared thermometers / Mensurações de temperatura em gatos utilizando os termômetros digital, de mercúrio e timpânico infravermelho

With a view to reducing stress and discomfort and improving the practicality of making temperature measurements on cats, the aim of this study was to evaluate the use of a tympanic infrared thermometer (TIT), which is an easy-to-use device for measuring temperatures quickly, comfortably and more hygienically. For this, were selected 120 domestic cats living in Sousa, Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Among them, 100 were normothermic, ten were hypothermic and ten were hyperthermic. None of them had any clinical signs of external or internal otitis. The measurements using the digital thermometer were higher than those using the TIT (P < 0.05), in the normothermic and hyperthermic cats. In the hypothermic cats, there was no difference (P ≥ 0.05) in mean values from the three types of thermometer. The values obtained using the mercury thermometer did not differ (P ≥ 0.05) from the values obtained using the other thermometers. There was a strong positive correlation in almost all the evaluations between the three thermometers, except for digital versus TIT for hyperthermic cats (r < 0.75). Because of the discrepancy between the values obtained by the TIT and the digital rectal thermometer, we suggest that further studies should be carried out in order to establish a temperature correction table for the TIT, so that it can be better used in veterinary medicine.

Com o objetivo de reduzir o estresse, desconforto e melhorar a praticidade da medição da temperatura em gatos, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o uso de um termômetro timpânico infravermelho (TTI), que é um dispositivo de fácil utilização para medição de temperatura de forma rápida, confortável e higiênica. Para isso, foram selecionados 120 gatos domésticos criados no município de Sousa, Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Dentre eles, 100 eram normotérmicos, dez hipotérmicos e dez hipertérmicos. Nenhum deles apresentava sinais clínicos de otite externa ou interna.

Hipertensão arterial sistêmica em gatos / Systemic arterial hypertension in cats

A hipertensão arterial sistólica é frequentemente reconhecida na prática clínica da medicina interna felina, sendo um problema comum em gatos mais velhos. Esta enfermidade é, costumeiramente, secundária a outras doenças, tais como, doença renal crônica e hipertireoidismo. No entanto, em alguns pacientes a causa subjacente não é identificada, portanto denominada de hipertensão idiopática. Elevações na pressão arterial, de forma sustentada ou não, podem levar a danos em diversos órgãos como, cérebro, olhos, coração e rins. Essas injúrias são denominadas de lesão de órgãos-alvo. Pressão arterial sistêmica acima de 160mmHg possue risco moderado a grave de dano aos órgãos-alvo. Desta maneira, o tratamento procura idealmente atingir riscos de dano mínimos. Alguns fármacos podem ser utilizados como terapia anti-hipertensiva, dentre elas, a amlodipina, um bloqueador de canal de cálcio, que é o medicamento de primeira escolha para tratamento em gatos. Além disso, é de extrema importância o diagnóstico de doenças que possam gerar o quadro hipertensivo ou estar em associação para que desta forma seja possível um controle adequado da pressão arterial. O diagnóstico precoce da doença é fundamental pois auxilia reduzir as chances de lesão nos órgãos-alvo, e consequentemente, reduz a mortalidade e melhora a qualidade de vida dos pacientes.

Systolic arterial hypertension is often recognized in the clinical practice of feline internal medicine and is a common problem in older cats. This disease is usually secondary to other diseases, such as chronic kidney disease and hyperthyroidism. However, in some patients the underlying cause is not identified, therefore called idiopathic hypertension. Elevations in blood pressure, whether sustained or not, can cause damage to various organs such as the brain, eyes, heart and kidneys. These injuries are called target organ damage. Systemic blood pressure above 160mmHg has a moderate to severe risk of damage to target organs. In this way, the treatment ideally seeks to achieve risks of cognitive damage. Pharmacological substances can be used as antihypertensive therapy, among them, an amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, which is the drug of choice for treatment in cats. In addition, it is extremely important to diagnose diseases that cause hypertension or to be associated with it, so that this form of blood pressure is adequate. Early diagnosis of the disease is essential because it helps to reduce the chances of target organ damage, and consequently, reduce mortality and improve patients' quality of life.

Temperature measurements in cats using digital, mercury and tympanic infrared thermometers / Mensurações de temperatura em gatos utilizando os termômetros digital, de mercúrio e timpânico infravermelho

With a view to reducing stress and discomfort and improving the practicality of making temperature measurements on cats, the aim of this study was to evaluate the use of a tympanic infrared thermometer (TIT), which is an easy-to-use device for measuring temperatures quickly, comfortably and more hygienically. For this, were selected 120 domestic cats living in Sousa, Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Among them, 100 were normothermic, ten were hypothermic and ten were hyperthermic. None of them had any clinical signs of external or internal otitis. The measurements using the digital thermometer were higher than those using the TIT (P < 0.05), in the normothermic and hyperthermic cats. In the hypothermic cats, there was no difference (P ≥ 0.05) in mean values from the three types of thermometer. The values obtained using the mercury thermometer did not differ (P ≥ 0.05) from the values obtained using the other thermometers. There was a strong positive correlation in almost all the evaluations between the three thermometers, except for digital versus TIT for hyperthermic cats (r < 0.75). Because of the discrepancy between the values obtained by the TIT and the digital rectal thermometer, we suggest that further studies should be carried out in order to establish a temperature correction table for the TIT, so that it can be better used in veterinary medicine.(AU)

Com o objetivo de reduzir o estresse, desconforto e melhorar a praticidade da medição da temperatura em gatos, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o uso de um termômetro timpânico infravermelho (TTI), que é um dispositivo de fácil utilização para medição de temperatura de forma rápida, confortável e higiênica. Para isso, foram selecionados 120 gatos domésticos criados no município de Sousa, Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Dentre eles, 100 eram normotérmicos, dez hipotérmicos e dez hipertérmicos. Nenhum deles apresentava sinais clínicos de otite externa ou interna.(AU)

Clomipramine and alprazolam to treat noise phobia in a dog: case report / Uso de clomipramina e alprazolam no tratamento de cão com sensibilidade à ruídos: relato de caso

Behavioral disorders, including noise phobia, have a great impact on small animals internal medicine, impairing their quality of life as well as their life expectancy. The objective of this work is to report the case of a male dog who suffered from noise phobia and panic attacks triggered by thunderstorms and fireworks, and did not respond to previous training and treatment. After clinical and laboratory evaluations, he was treated with 2mg/kg clomipramine twice daily for 90 days associated with 0.06mg/kg alprazolam as needed on those days of intense fear. During the first week of treatment, a significant improvement could already be observed, with reduction in destructive behaviors, which lingered on for up to eight months of follow-up. The treatment stabilized the clinical condition and improved the patient’s quality of life.

Os distúrbios de comportamento, entre eles o medo de ruídos, apresentam um grande impacto na clínica de peque-nos animais, acarretando em decréscimo na qualidade e expectativa de vida. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar o caso de um cão, macho, com histórico de medo de ruídos, que apresentava quadros de pânico desencadeados por trovões e fogos de arti-fício, sendo refratário a tentativas prévias de adestramento e tratamento medicamentoso. Após avaliação clínica e laboratorial, instituiu-se tratamento com clomipramina 2mg/kg BID durante 90 dias associada à administração de alprazolam 0,06mg/kg conforme necessário nos dias de medo intensificado. Na primeira semana de tratamento observou-se melhora significativa, com redução dos comportamentos destrutivos, se estendendo até 8 meses de acompanhamento. O tratamento realizado proporcio-nou estabilização do quadro clínico e incremento na qualidade de vida do paciente. informação a ser inserida pelos autores.

Clinical and complementary diagnosis of sinus neoplasia in horses

Background: Sinus neoplasms are reported as low frequency in horses. Its clinical characteristics are often nonspecific, depend on complementary methods for diagnosis, and when diagnosed, generally they are already advanced, limiting therapeutic possibilities. The objective of this case series was to detail clinical aspects and complementary exams for sinus neoplasms for early diagnosis, comparing them with the literature. Cases: Four horses were treated at the College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science of the University of São Paulo, with different clinical signs and previous diagnoses, which when evaluated by respiratory endoscopy, radiography, oral cavity evaluation and histopathological exams, revealed the diagnosis of anaplastic carcinoma, poorly differentiated carcinoma, ossifying fibroma and lymphoma. Previous diagnosis, based mainly on clinical signs, were sinusitis secondary to apical infection, ethmoidal hematoma, sinus cyst and sinusitis secondary to periapical disease. The cases of anaplastic carcinoma (case 1) and lymphoma (case 4) presented with an advanced degree of the disease with involvement and destruction of paranasal structures and adjacent tissues, in addition to a poor general condition, which made surgical treatment impossible and led to euthanasia. In these cases, previous treatment was made to apical infection and periodontal disease with secondary sinusitis, but negative evolution led to suspicion of neoplasia, confirmed by histopathological exam of incisional biopsy of the mass in oral cavity. Benign ossifying fibroma (case 3) presented with progressive respiratory difficulty due to occlusion of the lumen of some nasal meatus and radiographic signs of invasion and deformation of the adjacent bones, it was submitted for surgical excision and there was no recurrence until hospital discharge. The poorly differentiated carcinoma (case 2) was a multilobulate neoformation in the ethmoidal region, similar to ethmoid hematoma in endoscopic and radiographic evaluation, it was submitted for excision and two sessions of electrochemotherapy with bleomycin, associated with administration of piroxicam, which obtained a good result until the period of 1 year after discharge. Discussion: It was found that many characteristics are common with these types of neoplasms, and the clinical signs, such as nasal secretions, airway obstruction, increased facial volume, severe alterations in oral cavity, although unspecific, suggest the differential diagnosis for neoplasms. It is important to differentiate from other diseases noting the evolution and growth of these tumors, like in cases 1 and 4, especially the growth to internal tissues, using complementary methods described here, like endoscopic and radiographic examination. Late identification or even manipulation of neoplasms, without proper diagnosis, leads to a few prognoses regarding life. When it is possible to perform surgical excision, complementary methods are important to guide the procedure, and definitive diagnosis is made through histopathologic exam and some need immunohistochemistry analysis. Cases 2 and 3 had surgical access, were submitted to excision and treatment with good results, both with close monitoring in first months and prolonged quality of life. These results highlight the importance of complementary methods for early diagnosis, correct intervention and monitoring of evolution.

Pressão arterial sistólica em cães anestesiados: concordância entre mensurações por dois métodos não invasivos / Systolic blood pressure in anesthetized dogs: agreement between measurements by two noninvasive monitors

The oscillometric monitor is a noninvasive method used for measuring blood pressure in dogs and cats. Despite widely used, there is a large variability in the accuracy of oscillometric monitors, which may also be influenced by the location of the blood pressure cuff. The Doppler ultrasound is another non-invasive method that was shown to measure blood pressure with good accuracy and precision in small animals. The present study aimed to determine the agreement between systolic arterial pressure (SAP) measured by the Prolife P12 oscillometric monitor with 2 cuff locations and the Doppler ultrasound in anesthetized dogs. Dogs scheduled for routine anesthetic procedures were included in the study, which was carried out in 2 phases. In Phase 1, SAP values measured by the Doppler were compared with those measured by the Prolife P12 monitor with the cuff placed at the thoracic limb for both methods. In Phase 2, SAP values measured by the Doppler were compared with those measured by the Prolife P12 monitor, with the cuff placed at the thoracic limb for the Doppler and at the base of the tail for the P12. The cuff width corresponded to approximately 40% of limb or tail circumference. On all occasions, 3 consecutive measurements of SAP were recorded, followed by a single measurement of SAP by the P12, and then other 3 measurements were performed with the Doppler. The arithmetic mean of the 6 SAP measurements with the Doppler was compared with the SAP value measured by the P12 monitor (paired measurements). Agreement between SAP values measured by the Doppler and the P12 monitor was analyzed by the Bland Altman method for calculation of the bias (Doppler - P12) and standard deviation (SD) of the bias. The percentages of differences between the methods with an error ≤ 10 mmHg and ≤ 20 mmHg and Pearson's correlation coefficients were also calculated. Results were compared with the criteria from the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) for validation of noninvasive blood pressure methods. A total of 33 dogs were included in Phase 1 and 15 were included in Phase 2. During Phases 1 and 2, 179 and 87 paired measurements were recorded, respectively. Most of the measurements were recorded during normotension (SAP = 90-130 mmHg): 113/179 in Phase 1 and 52/87 in Phase 2. The bias (± SD) for Phases 1 and 2 were -2.7 ± 14.1 mmHg and 7.2 ± 25.8 mmHg. The percentages of differences ≤ 10 mmHg and ≤ 20 mmHg were: Phase 1, 61% and 83%; Phase 2, 41% and 70%. Correlation coefficients were 0.81 and 0.67 for Phases 1 and 2, respectively. According to the ACVIM criteria, maximum values accepted for bias are 10 ± 15 mmHg, the percentages of differences ≤ 10 mmHg and ≤ 20 mmHg should be ≥ 50% and ≥ 80%, respectively, and the correlation coefficient should be ≥ 0.9. When the blood pressure cuff was placed at the thoracic limb, SAP values measured by the P12 monitor met most of the ACVIM criteria, demonstrating good agreement with SAP values measured by the Doppler. The only requirement not met was the correlation coefficient which was 0.81 whereas the recommended is ≥ 0.9. Conversely, when the cuff was placed at the base of the tail, SAP values measured by the P12 monitor did not meet most of the ACVIM criteria indicating that, in anesthetized dogs, SAP measurements with the P12 monitor should be performed with the cuff placed at the thoracic limb. One limitation of this study was that most measurements fell in the normotensive range and the results should not be extrapolated for hypotensive and hypertensive conditions. In conclusion, the Prolife P12 oscillometric monitor demonstrated good agreement with SAP values measured by the Doppler and provides acceptable values in normotensive anesthetized dogs.(AU)

Clomipramine and alprazolam to treat noise phobia in a dog: case report / Uso de clomipramina e alprazolam no tratamento de cão com sensibilidade à ruídos: relato de caso

Behavioral disorders, including noise phobia, have a great impact on small animals internal medicine, impairing their quality of life as well as their life expectancy. The objective of this work is to report the case of a male dog who suffered from noise phobia and panic attacks triggered by thunderstorms and fireworks, and did not respond to previous training and treatment. After clinical and laboratory evaluations, he was treated with 2mg/kg clomipramine twice daily for 90 days associated with 0.06mg/kg alprazolam as needed on those days of intense fear. During the first week of treatment, a significant improvement could already be observed, with reduction in destructive behaviors, which lingered on for up to eight months of follow-up. The treatment stabilized the clinical condition and improved the patients quality of life.(AU)

Os distúrbios de comportamento, entre eles o medo de ruídos, apresentam um grande impacto na clínica de peque-nos animais, acarretando em decréscimo na qualidade e expectativa de vida. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar o caso de um cão, macho, com histórico de medo de ruídos, que apresentava quadros de pânico desencadeados por trovões e fogos de arti-fício, sendo refratário a tentativas prévias de adestramento e tratamento medicamentoso. Após avaliação clínica e laboratorial, instituiu-se tratamento com clomipramina 2mg/kg BID durante 90 dias associada à administração de alprazolam 0,06mg/kg conforme necessário nos dias de medo intensificado. Na primeira semana de tratamento observou-se melhora significativa, com redução dos comportamentos destrutivos, se estendendo até 8 meses de acompanhamento. O tratamento realizado proporcio-nou estabilização do quadro clínico e incremento na qualidade de vida do paciente. informação a ser inserida pelos autores.(AU)

Pimobendan em gatos / Pimobendan in cats

As miocardiopatias são as cardiopatias mais comumente diagnosticadas em felinos domésticos. A cardiomiopatia hipertrófica (CMH) soma a maioria dos casos de cardiomiopatias em pacientes atendidos na rotina da medicina interna de felinos. Gatos com doenças cardíacas podem não apresentar manifestações clínicas evidentes podendo apresentar sinais sutis de insuficiência cardíaca (IC) ao longo do tempo de modo que em um dado momento descompensam e evidenciam sinais clínicos. O pimobendan é um fármaco denominado inodilatador devido a sua capacidade de promover inotropismo positivo e vasodilatação. Apesar de escassos, os estudos existentes com a utilização de pimobendan demonstram boa tolerância em gatos saudáveis e com cardiopatias diversas. Atualmente, o uso do pimobendan em gatos é extra bula e a dose baseia-se em estudos realizados com cães. No entanto, sabe-se que as concentrações plasmáticas diferem entre as espécies o que pode requerer possíveis ajustes. A terapia da IC em gatos é bastante discutida e evidências recentes demonstram que o pimobendan pode ser um aliado no tratamento de diversas doenças cardíacas que levem à disfunção sistólica sendo capaz de prover melhora dos sinais clínicos e até aumento da expectativa de vida desses pacientes. Contudo, pesquisas são necessárias para melhor entendimento dos efeitos hemodinâmicos do medicamento em gatos com disfunção diastólica.

Myocardiopathies are the most diagnosed heart disease in domestic cats. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) adds up to most cases of cardiomyopathies in patients seen in the routine of feline internal medicine. Cats with heart disease may not have evident clinical manifestations and may show subtle signs of heart failure (HF) over time so that at a given moment they decompensate and show clinical symptoms. Pimobendan is an inodilator drug due to its ability to promote positive inotropism and vasodilation. Although scarce, the existing studies with the use of pimobendan demonstrate good tolerance in healthy cats with various heart diseases. Currently, the use of pimobendan in cats is off-label and the dose is based on studies conducted in dogs. However, it is known that plasma concentrations differ between species, which may require possible adjustments. The therapy of HF in cats is widely discussed and recent evidence shows that pimobendan can be an ally in the treatment of various heart diseases that lead to systolic dysfunction, being able to provide improvement in clinical signs and even increase the life expectancy of these patients. However, research is necessary to better understand the hemodynamic effects of the drug in cats with diastolic dysfunction.

Neouretra com enxerto autógeno de segmento intestinal vascularizado em felino / Autogenous vascularized intestinal grafting for urethral reconstruction in feline

Background: Serious urethral damage or recurrent obstructions in felines require a urethrostomy to provide a return to and maintenance of urinary flow. In some cases, urethral reconstruction with complementary tissue is required. Grafting of autogenous vascularized intestinal segments is widely used in human medicine to promote the functional restoration of the urethra, but in veterinary medicine, its use is still incipient. Thus, the aim of this report was to analyze and describe the use of thein functional urethral repair in a feline diagnosed with a severe urethral rupture. Case: A castrated male cat presented with urethral obstruction. Emergency decompression cystocentesis was performed, and fluids and analgesics were administered. Catheterization and urohydropropulsion were attempted to relieve the obstruction, without success. An emergency perineal urethrostomy was indicated. After the procedure, the diagnosis (obstructive lower tract urinary disease) and the infeasibility of restoring urinary flow by conventional urethrostomy techniques were confirmed. We opted for a laparoscopic-assisted prepubic urethrostomy; the pre-prostatic urethra was transected, and its caudais end was brought through an abdominal incision cranially. However, urethral tension was noted after this maneuver was performed. Thus, we decided to use autogenous vascularized intestinal segment grafting for urethral reconstruction. A segment of the ileum was prepared for grafting, with preservation of irrigation and mesenteric innervation. A terminoterminal anastomosis was performed on the stumps of the remaining intestine, and the mesentery was sutured. The ileal graft was isolated and washed to remove...