Use of antioxidants and time of cold storage: effects over viability parameters and enzymatic levels in semen of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum, 1792) / Uso de antioxidantes e tempo de armazenamento a frio: efeitos sobre parâmetros de viabilidade e níveis enzimáticos no sêmen da truta arco-íris (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum, 1792)

Abstract The cold storage of milt implies potentials alterations in its quality because the storage generates as main process, free radicals that produce spermatozoa membrane lipids damage with the consequent motility and fertilising capacity disruptions. To decrease the damage generated by free radicals the cells have antioxidant defences (proteins, enzymes, and low molecular weight substances). The objective of the present study evaluated the time storage effect and different antioxidants prepared in spermatic diluents on sperm viability of O. mykiss milt stored at 4°C. The two-way ANOVA denoted that the time storage and antioxidant influence have significant effects separated or combined on viability parameters (sperm motility and viability, proteins concentrations and superoxide dismutase enzymatic activity in seminal plasma). In contrast, only the storage time affected the fertilising capacity and catalase enzymatic activity in seminal plasma. The resulting analysis can conclude that the antioxidant presence improves the viability of cold stored milt, especially the transport conditions and the antioxidants allow the fecundity despite motility decrease.

Resumo O armazenamento a frio de leite implica potenciais alterações em sua qualidade, pois gera como processo principal radicais livres que provocam danos aos lipídios da membrana dos espermatozoides, com as consequentes alterações na motilidade e na capacidade de fertilização. Para diminuir os danos causados pelos radicais livres, as células têm defesas antioxidantes (proteínas, enzimas e substâncias de baixo peso molecular). O presente estudo avaliou o efeito do tempo de armazenamento e diferentes antioxidantes preparados em diluentes espermáticos no armazenamento de viabilidade de O. mykiss milt a 4°C. A ANOVA de duas vias denotou que o armazenamento no tempo e a influência antioxidante têm efeitos significativos separados ou combinados nos parâmetros de viabilidade (motilidade espermática, viabilidade espermática, concentrações de proteínas e atividade enzimática da superóxido dismutase no plasma seminal), enquanto apenas o tempo de armazenamento afetou a capacidade de fertilização e atividade enzimática da catalase no plasma seminal. A análise resultante pode concluir que a presença de antioxidante melhora a viabilidade do leite frio, especialmente as condições de transporte, e os antioxidantes permitem a fecundidade apesar da diminuição da motilidade.

Use of antioxidants and time of cold storage: effects over viability parameters and enzymatic levels in semen of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum, 1792) / Uso de antioxidantes e tempo de armazenamento a frio: efeitos sobre parâmetros de viabilidade e níveis enzimáticos no sêmen da truta arco-íris (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum, 1792)

The cold storage of milt implies potentials alterations in its quality because the storage generates as main process, free radicals that produce spermatozoa membrane lipids damage with the consequent motility and fertilising capacity disruptions. To decrease the damage generated by free radicals the cells have antioxidant defences (proteins, enzymes, and low molecular weight substances). The objective of the present study evaluated the time storage effect and different antioxidants prepared in spermatic diluents on sperm viability of O. mykiss milt stored at 4°C. The two-way ANOVA denoted that the time storage and antioxidant influence have significant effects separated or combined on viability parameters (sperm motility and viability, proteins concentrations and superoxide dismutase enzymatic activity in seminal plasma). In contrast, only the storage time affected the fertilising capacity and catalase enzymatic activity in seminal plasma. The resulting analysis can conclude that the antioxidant presence improves the viability of cold stored milt, especially the transport conditions and the antioxidants allow the fecundity despite motility decrease.

O armazenamento a frio de leite implica potenciais alterações em sua qualidade, pois gera como processo principal radicais livres que provocam danos aos lipídios da membrana dos espermatozoides, com as consequentes alterações na motilidade e na capacidade de fertilização. Para diminuir os danos causados pelos radicais livres, as células têm defesas antioxidantes (proteínas, enzimas e substâncias de baixo peso molecular). O presente estudo avaliou o efeito do tempo de armazenamento e diferentes antioxidantes preparados em diluentes espermáticos no armazenamento de viabilidade de O. mykiss milt a 4°C. A ANOVA de duas vias denotou que o armazenamento no tempo e a influência antioxidante têm efeitos significativos separados ou combinados nos parâmetros de viabilidade (motilidade espermática, viabilidade espermática, concentrações de proteínas e atividade enzimática da superóxido dismutase no plasma seminal), enquanto apenas o tempo de armazenamento afetou a capacidade de fertilização e atividade enzimática da catalase no plasma seminal. A análise resultante pode concluir que a presença de antioxidante melhora a viabilidade do leite frio, especialmente as condições de transporte, e os antioxidantes permitem a fecundidade apesar da diminuição da motilidade.

Use of antioxidants and time of cold storage: effects over viability parameters and enzymatic levels in semen of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum, 1792) / Uso de antioxidantes e tempo de armazenamento a frio: efeitos sobre parâmetros de viabilidade e níveis enzimáticos no sêmen da truta arco-íris (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum, 1792)

The cold storage of milt implies potentials alterations in its quality because the storage generates as main process, free radicals that produce spermatozoa membrane lipids damage with the consequent motility and fertilising capacity disruptions. To decrease the damage generated by free radicals the cells have antioxidant defences (proteins, enzymes, and low molecular weight substances). The objective of the present study evaluated the time storage effect and different antioxidants prepared in spermatic diluents on sperm viability of O. mykiss milt stored at 4°C. The two-way ANOVA denoted that the time storage and antioxidant influence have significant effects separated or combined on viability parameters (sperm motility and viability, proteins concentrations and superoxide dismutase enzymatic activity in seminal plasma). In contrast, only the storage time affected the fertilising capacity and catalase enzymatic activity in seminal plasma. The resulting analysis can conclude that the antioxidant presence improves the viability of cold stored milt, especially the transport conditions and the antioxidants allow the fecundity despite motility decrease.(AU)

O armazenamento a frio de leite implica potenciais alterações em sua qualidade, pois gera como processo principal radicais livres que provocam danos aos lipídios da membrana dos espermatozoides, com as consequentes alterações na motilidade e na capacidade de fertilização. Para diminuir os danos causados pelos radicais livres, as células têm defesas antioxidantes (proteínas, enzimas e substâncias de baixo peso molecular). O presente estudo avaliou o efeito do tempo de armazenamento e diferentes antioxidantes preparados em diluentes espermáticos no armazenamento de viabilidade de O. mykiss milt a 4°C. A ANOVA de duas vias denotou que o armazenamento no tempo e a influência antioxidante têm efeitos significativos separados ou combinados nos parâmetros de viabilidade (motilidade espermática, viabilidade espermática, concentrações de proteínas e atividade enzimática da superóxido dismutase no plasma seminal), enquanto apenas o tempo de armazenamento afetou a capacidade de fertilização e atividade enzimática da catalase no plasma seminal. A análise resultante pode concluir que a presença de antioxidante melhora a viabilidade do leite frio, especialmente as condições de transporte, e os antioxidantes permitem a fecundidade apesar da diminuição da motilidade.(AU)

Use of antioxidants and time of cold storage: effects over viability parameters and enzymatic levels in semen of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum, 1792)

Abstract The cold storage of milt implies potentials alterations in its quality because the storage generates as main process, free radicals that produce spermatozoa membrane lipids damage with the consequent motility and fertilising capacity disruptions. To decrease the damage generated by free radicals the cells have antioxidant defences (proteins, enzymes, and low molecular weight substances). The objective of the present study evaluated the time storage effect and different antioxidants prepared in spermatic diluents on sperm viability of O. mykiss milt stored at 4°C. The two-way ANOVA denoted that the time storage and antioxidant influence have significant effects separated or combined on viability parameters (sperm motility and viability, proteins concentrations and superoxide dismutase enzymatic activity in seminal plasma). In contrast, only the storage time affected the fertilising capacity and catalase enzymatic activity in seminal plasma. The resulting analysis can conclude that the antioxidant presence improves the viability of cold stored milt, especially the transport conditions and the antioxidants allow the fecundity despite motility decrease.

Resumo O armazenamento a frio de leite implica potenciais alterações em sua qualidade, pois gera como processo principal radicais livres que provocam danos aos lipídios da membrana dos espermatozoides, com as consequentes alterações na motilidade e na capacidade de fertilização. Para diminuir os danos causados pelos radicais livres, as células têm defesas antioxidantes (proteínas, enzimas e substâncias de baixo peso molecular). O presente estudo avaliou o efeito do tempo de armazenamento e diferentes antioxidantes preparados em diluentes espermáticos no armazenamento de viabilidade de O. mykiss milt a 4°C. A ANOVA de duas vias denotou que o armazenamento no tempo e a influência antioxidante têm efeitos significativos separados ou combinados nos parâmetros de viabilidade (motilidade espermática, viabilidade espermática, concentrações de proteínas e atividade enzimática da superóxido dismutase no plasma seminal), enquanto apenas o tempo de armazenamento afetou a capacidade de fertilização e atividade enzimática da catalase no plasma seminal. A análise resultante pode concluir que a presença de antioxidante melhora a viabilidade do leite frio, especialmente as condições de transporte, e os antioxidantes permitem a fecundidade apesar da diminuição da motilidade.

Hydrodissection in the construction of conjunctival flaps in dogs

Background: Hydrodissection is a minimally invasive procedure that consists of injecting fluid into an anatomical space to facilitate dissection during surgery. Although this procedure is employed in several areas of veterinary medicine, including ophthalmology, there are no reports of the use of this maneuver in conjunctival procedures in dogs. The use of this technique can facilitate the construction of conjunctival pedicle flaps, thereby improving the results. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the use of hydrodissection in the construction of conjunctival pedicle flaps in dogs. Materials, Methods & Results: The sample consisted of 20 eyes from 10 healthy dogs that had been subjected to elective surgical procedures of ovariohysterectomy and orchiectomy. The dogs were divided into 2 groups; the 1st group of 10 eyes underwent hydrodissection and the 2nd group of 10 eyes did not. All the patients underwent a complete ophthalmic examination and assessment of their systemic conditions. The patients were then anesthetized and the procedures were performed under a surgical microscope. In the group subjected to hydrodissection, the conjunctival flap was prepared by means of a previous subconjunctival injection of 0.7 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride, followed by preparation of the flap. In the group without hydrodissection, the flap was prepared by means of conventional divulsion using iris scissors. After producing the conjunctival flaps, a conjunctival fragment was collected from both groups for histological analysis and evaluation of the presence of the Tenon capsule. The operating time, degree of hemorrhage and ease of handling the conjunctiva in the intraoperative period were evaluated. Postoperative evaluations were performed at 1, 7 and 14 days after surgery and included: blepharospasm, conjunctival hyperemia and edema, which were classified as absent, mild, moderate or severe; tear production was evaluated using the Schirmer test, and the appearance of the conjunctival scar was assessed based on photographs taken in the postoperative period, and by a visual analogue scale, with healing classified as fair, good or excellent. The 2 groups showed no statistical difference in terms of operating time, bleeding, ease of handling and conjunctival divulsion. A volume of 0.48 ± 0.12 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride was administered to the conjunctiva. Postoperative assessments of hyperemia, blepharospasm, conjunctival edema, and tear production also did not differ statistically. Conjunctival scarring was considered optimal until the 14th postoperative day, with no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups. These results demonstrate that both maneuvers are effective in creating conjunctival flaps. The Tenon capsule could not be identified in histological stains. Discussion: The literature offers numerous descriptions of the use of hydrodissection in surgical procedures in humans in order to facilitate dissection and reduce surgical duration and handling, thereby improving the clinical recovery of patients. Conversely, this technique has not been described frequently in veterinary medicine, notably with respect to conjunctival procedures. In this study, we demonstrated that conjunctival hydrodissection was perfectly feasible, contributing to the divulsion and preparation of conjunctival flaps, thus proving to be a viable option for this type of procedure. The absence of the Tenon capsule in the evaluated samples demonstrates that, in both groups, the techniques were effective in separating them from the conjunctiva. It was therefore concluded that the hydrodissection technique is a feasible maneuver in the construction of conjunctival flaps, providing a new option for surgeons, especially for novice ophthalmologists.

Solid iridociliary carcinoma in a dog

Background: Iridociliary epithelial tumors (ICETs) originate from the iris epithelium or ciliary body. They comprise ciliary body adenoma, carcinoma, pleomorphic adenocarcinomas, medulloepitheliomas, and other primitive neuroectodermal tumors. They are the second most common primary intraocular tumors in dogs and have already been reported in sheep and humans. In dogs, they occur more frequently in middle-aged to elderly animals, and the Labrador and Golden Retriever seem to be more predisposed breeds. This study aimed to describe the clinical and pathological aspects of solid iridociliary carcinoma in a dog. Case: A 3-year-old Poodle bitch was treated for discomfort in the left eyeball region, increased intraocular pressure and moderate buphthalmia. A direct ophthalmological examination was performed without equipment, and a mass was visualized in the posterior chamber, distorting the pupillary cleft. We opted for unilateral enucleation and forwarded the material for histological analysis. Macroscopically, the eyeball measured 3.4 cm (anteroposterior) x 2.6 cm (vertical), with a brownish mass that occupied the entire anterior chamber and part of the posterior chamber. Histologically, there was a neoformation in the ciliary body and iris pigment epithelium, partially well-delimited and densely cellular. The neoplasm was organized into predominantly solid formations interspersed with a discrete amount of blood vessels, rare bundles of fibrous stroma, and amorphous eosinophilic material forming membranes that were positive for PAS. Sections of the neoplasm were subjected to immunohistochemistry using anti-cytokeratin AE1/AE3, anti-S100 protein, anti-vimentin, and anti-Ki-67. Positive cytoplasmic immunostaining for cytokeratin and S-100 was observed. Only 45.6% of cells were positive for Ki-67 (500 cells). No immunostaining was observed for vimentin. Discussion: The diagnosis of solid iridociliary carcinoma was based on the histological features and positive immunostaining for cytokeratin AE1/AE3 and protein S100. Iridociliary carcinomas present positive immunostaining for cytokeratin, whereas adenomas and normal iridociliary epithelium do not present this immunostaining. Moreover, the high rate of cell proliferation was indicative of malignant neoplasia, as observed by the high mitotic count and high positivity for Ki-67. The S100 protein helped in the diagnosis of ICETs, as the iridociliary epithelium showed positive staining for this protein. Some histological features are important to consider in the diagnosis of iridociliary tumors in dogs, such as noninvasive growth in the posterior chamber, pigment epithelium, and thick homogeneous membranes on the cell surface. Furthermore, the presence of positive PAS membranes favors the diagnosis of iridociliary epithelial tumors. ICETs must be differentiated from melanocytomas, anterior uveal melanoma, medulloepitheliomas, and metastatic and pleomorphic carcinomas. The histological characteristics, especially the presence of PAS-positive membranes, associated with the immunohistochemical profile of neoplasm cells, help differentiate the ICETs from these tumors. In general, the prognosis is poor for eyeball and vision maintenance in canine iridociliary tumors, and scleral invasion is associated with a higher recurrence rate.

Linfoma intraocular em cães - achados da ultrassonografia contrastada e elastografia ARFI / Intraocular lymphoma in dogs - findings of contrast enhanced ultrasound and ARFI elastography

Background: Ocular lymphoma can affect the iris, conjunctiva, choroid, and retina and is mostly associated with multicentric disease. Elastography is an ultrasound technique that provides noninvasive, pain-free assessment of tissue stiffness. It has the ability to assess subtle changes throughout the organ as well as focal lesions. Microbubble contrast ultrasound enables the detection of incipient vascular flows, which are difficult to detect using traditional ultrasound methods. This study aimed to describe acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography and microbubble contrast ultrasound findings in the eyes of two dogs diagnosed with intraocular T-cell lymphoma. Cases: Case 1. Physical examination revealed an exophytic mass in the left eye. Schirmer test revealed a secretion of 22 mm/min. Negative threat reflex, glare, direct pupillary light reflex, and consensual response were also noted. Biomicroscopy revealed hyperplasia of the third eyelid, overlapping with the affected eye. When the membrane was removed, moderate conjunctival hyperemia, mucoid secretion, and buphthalmia were observed. In addition, significant corneal edema was present, making it impossible to visualize the anterior chamber and perform fundus examination. The intraocular pressure, as measured with a rebound tonometer, was 39 mmHg. B-mode ultrasonography identified amorphous, hyperechoic, and heterogeneous structures throughout the anterior chamber, iris, and ciliary body. The elastogram showed that the mass had greenish tones and intermediate stiffness, and the mean SWV of the ciliary body and iris was 2 m/s. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) revealed vascularization of the neoformation region, with wash-in, peak, and wash-out values of 9.89 s, 24.56 s, and 107.87 s, respectively. Case 2. On physical examination, a change in the shape of the right pupil was observed. Schirmer test revealed a secretion of 20 mm/min, with negative threat, glare, and pupillary reflexes to direct and consensual light. Biomicroscopy revealed neoformation from 7 am to 11 am in the sclera, retina, and choroid complex, concomitant with dyscoria and conjunctival hyperemia. The intraocular pressure, as measured by rebound tonometry, was 33 mmHg. Fundoscopy revealed a mass in the temporal region and focal retinal detachment. No changes were observed in the contralateral eye. B-mode ultrasound revealed an increase in volume in the temporal region of the iris, ciliary body, and choroid with diffuse heterogeneity and partial retinal detachment. Elastographic examination revealed shades of green and yellow compatible with increased tissue stiffness. On quantitative examination, the mean SWVs of the ciliary body and iris were 3.14 m/s. On CEUS, the neoformation region presented wash-in, peak, and wash-out values of 8.67 s, 22.33 s, and 80.20 s. Discussion: B-mode ultrasonography established the tumor extent and evaluated echogenicity, verifying the involved ocular structures. The examination played an important role in the diagnosis as well as clinical management. ARFI elastography can detect small tissue changes, helping to define nodules and masses more reliably, in addition to allowing the verification of tissue stiffness. In both dogs, it was possible to verify that the masses presented greater rigidity than the adjacent tissues both qualitatively and quantitatively. In previous studies, it was found that cutaneous and breast lymphomas in humans were more rigid than adjacent tissues on elastography. This increase in rigidity and heterogeneity observed on elastograms can be explained by the extramedullary interactions of the matrix in T-cell lymphomas. Tumor growth is dependent on the blood supply, which was evaluated using CEUS in these cases. Furthermore, the ciliary body contrast filling times were longer than those described in normal dogs.

Coloboma eyelid in cats - treatment with carbon dioxide cryosurgery

Background: Eyelid colobomas are congenital and developmental disorders. Generally, they affect the temporal portion of the upper eyelids of cats, bilaterally. This ocular defect is accompanied by trichiasis associated with pain and ulcerative keratitis. Any breed can be affected and it has been reported in Domestic Shorthair, Persian, Burmese, Mongrel cats and captive felids. The objective of this case report is to describe the technique of dioxide carbon cryosurgery for the treatment of eyelid coloboma in felines. Cases: Seven mongrel cats (14 eyes) with bilateral eyelid coloboma were included in this study, 5 females and 2 males, with a median age of 5 months (range 6-8 months). The patients presented with blepharospasm, bilateral mucopurulent ocular discharge and eyelid coloboma extension of 30-50% in the upper eyelid, resulting in severe trichiasis of both eyes. In 5 cats, 1 or both eyes were diagnosed with keratitis and superficial corneal ulcers. Surgical treatment with general anaesthesia was applied. The pre anaesthesia protocol included acepromazine 0.05 mg/kg with methadone 0.2 mg/kg, followed by intravenous propofol and maintenance with isoflurane and oxygen. An ophthalmological cryocautery unit was utilised with carbon dioxide as the cryogenic agent and a retinal cryoprobe of 3.2 mm diameter tip, reaching -50ºC for the procedure. The method used was a double cycle of freezing and thawing for 60 s in the margins of eyelid agenesis. Epilation of hairs was made after freezing with eyelash tweezers. Immediately after the surgical procedure, an Elizabethan collar was placed to safeguard the area and anti-inflammatory therapy with meloxicam 0.1 mg/kg once daily for 3 days was prescribed. Antibiotic ointment every 6 h (chloramphenicol and associations) was also prescribed for topical application. Two weeks post-operatively, hyperaemia, oedema and skin wounds at the margins were observed. After 30 days these clinical signs were minimal. No signs of pain were observed post-operatively. The follow-up was 90 days and the trichiasis was resolved in all cats. Discussion: Usually, young cats are affected with eyelid colobomas. The age of the patients in this study was between 6-8 months. Eyelid colobomas are repaired with a variety of blepharoplastic procedures and the choice depends on the size and position of the defect. Generally, larger defects require more extensive reconstructive procedures. All techniques can have post-operative complications. Suture dehiscence, skin flap necrosis and facial deformation can occur with traditional surgical techniques. Furthermore, posterior hair growth in the margins can lead to new trichiasis. Cryosurgery was chosen and performed as the temperature of -20°C is sufficient to destroy hair follicles, without surgical incisions, avoiding scar formation. Hence, sutures are not necessary in cryosurgery procedures. Carbon dioxide is a good cryogenic agent for the purpose of this procedure. In the cases described, no recurrence of hair growth was observed in the follow-up period of 90 days. Nevertheless, a good aesthetic appearance was maintained. Therefore, the use of carbon dioxide cryosurgery is an effective and safe alternative for treatment of eyelid coloboma in cats. To our knowledge, no paper has described the use of carbon dioxide cryosurgery for the correction of palpebral agenesis in felines and other species as a single treatment. This technique is easy to perform, has good aesthetic and functional results and can be considered a treatment option for this congenital condition.

Automutilação em abutre real (Sarcoramphus papa) mantido em cativeiro / Automutilation in real vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) maintained in captivity / Automutilación en un buitre dorado (Sarcoramphus papa) mantenido en cautividad

O abutre real (Sarcoramphus papa) é um pássaro compacto de cor extraordinária, cabeça nua, possui carúnculas e papilas carnudas vermelhas e alaranjadas em torno do bico, a íris é branca com um anel orbital vermelho. Em cativeiro, o estresse é uma condição bastante observada, o que pode levar a automutilação, podendo evoluir para lesões graves na pele e músculos. O objetivo do presente relato é descrever os procedimentos adotados em um caso de automutilação em Sarcoramphus papa, mantido em cativeiro, e a importância do manejo adequado para essa espécie em cativeiro. Foi atendido em um Hospital Veterinário Universitário, um urubu-rei apresentando ferimento contaminado, com exposição óssea na asa direita. Após tratamento o animal foi encaminhado para uma reserva conservacionista para que fosse condicionada a voltar para seu habitat natural.(AU)

The real vulture is a compact bird of extraordinary color (in adult plumage). Its bare head, as the scientific name suggests, has caricatures and fleshy red papillae applied around the beak, and an iris of the eye is white with a red orbital ring. In captivity, stress is a widely observed condition, which can lead to self-mutilation, which can progress to severe skin and muscle injuries. The purpose of this report is to describe the procedures adopted in the case of automation in Sarcoramphus papa, kept in captivity and with an importance of the appropriate manual for this species in captivity. He was seen at a University Veterinary Hospital, a king vulture showed a contaminated wound, with bone exposure on the right. After treatment or animal was sent to a conservation reserve to be conditioned and return to its natural habitat.(AU)

buitre real (Sarcoramphus papa) es un ave compacta de extraordinario color, cabeza desnuda, tiene carúnculas y papilas rojas y anaranjadas alrededor del pico, el iris es blanco con un anillo orbital rojo. En cautiverio, el estrés es una condición ampliamente observada, que puede llevar a la automutilación, posiblemente evolucionando en lesiones graves de la piel y los músculos. El objetivo del presente informe es describir los procedimientos adoptados en un caso de automutilación en Sarcoramphus papa, mantenido en cautividad, y la importancia del manejo adecuado para esta especie en cautividad. Un buitre real que presentaba una lesión contaminada con exposición ósea en el ala derecha fue tratado en un Hospital Universitario Veterinario. Tras el tratamiento, el animal fue enviado a una reserva de conservación para que pudiera ser acondicionado para volver a su hábitat natural.(AU)

Episcleroceratite nodular granulomatosa em cães / Nodular episclerokeratitis in dogs

Background: Episcleral inflammation may be assumed to be primary immune-mediated, secondary to intra- or extraocular diseases, or systemic abnormalities. We aimed to report a confirmed and another suspect case of nodular episclerokeratites (NEK) due to its rarity in the clinical setting and the paucity of case reports in Brazilian literature. Cases: Case 1. Refers to a 7-year-old castrated male, Collie-mixed breed, presenting with epiphora and an irregular ocular surface shape in the left eye (LE). Ophthalmic evaluation of this eye revealed mucoid discharge, conjunctival hyperemia, episcleral injection, and a gelatinous mass in the temporal limbic region. Biomicroscopic evaluation of the anterior chamber, lens, and vitreous was impaired in the LE because of corneal vessels and a mild flare in the aqueous humor. Histopathology of a scleral biopsy revealed the presence of lymphocytes, histiocytes, and some plasma cells. Positive CD3-lymphocytes were observed by immunohistochemistry, confirming the diagnosis of NEK. Case 2. Refers to a 8-year-old, spayed female Border Collie with a history of exophthalmos, conjunctival hyperemia, and inability to close the eyelid of the LE. During ophthalmic examination, an irregular espicleral nodule of approximately 9 mm was also found in the temporal limbic region, along with enlargement of episcleral vessels and scleral thinning at the equatorial region. The cornea showed mild and diffuse edema, and white crystal-like deposits were distributed in a band-like fashion at the dorsal aspect. Ultrasonography revealed scleral thinning without evidence of a mass effect arising from the iris, ciliary body, or retrobulbar space. Based on these findings, NEK was suspected. In both cases, the clinical signs reduced significantly after seven days of topical treatment with corticosteroids and cyclosporine. Discussion: It is assumed that scleral disorders are primarily immune mediated. However, such conditions may develop secondary to ocular trauma (surgery and foreign bodies), Ehrlichia canis, and Onchocerca spp. Infections and situations were ruled out in both cases. In case 1, additional histological and immunohistochemical findings supported a primary and immune-mediated scleral disease. Although the definitive diagnosis was not confirmed by histology in case 2, one can assume that the episcleral inflammation may have arisen due to an immune-mediated disorder once the eye responded positively to corticosteroid therapy. Additionally, secondary glaucoma was excluded as a possible diagnosis in case 2, because the intraocular pressure of the affected eye was below the reference range for dogs, coupled with the irregular appearance of the episclera, which is not characteristic of canine glaucoma. Moreover, in case 2, because remission of the masses of neoplastic origin after corticotherapy was not expected, the tumor was discarded. NEK has a characteristic ploriferative behavior and resistance to topical immunosuppression; clinical recurrence was not observed in the LE of either patient who remained on treatment after 60 days of follow-up. Regarding prognosis, one study showed a correlation between cellular contingent and therapeutic responses. The percentage of positive CD79a cells (B-lymphocytes) was significantly higher in cases of epicleritis and NEK, in which a poor response was achieved after topical immunosuppressive treatment. As shown by the veterinary literature and the cases described here, the complete remission of NEK is more common in unilateral cases, as confirmed after a 12-month follow-up. The 2 reported cases are useful for clarifying the common findings, diagnosis, and long-term management of NEK. Scleral abnormalities, such as NEK, must be included in the list of differential diagnoses of glaucoma, neoplasia, and endophthalmitis during ophtalmic examination.

Fish products developed from ground rainbow trout and tilapia fillet mixtures: physico-chemical, microbiological and toxicological analyses / Produtos de pescado elaborados a partir de misturas de carne moída de truta-arco-íris (Oncorhynchus mykiss) e tilápia (Oreochromis sp. ): análises físico-químicas, microbiológicas e toxicológicas

Constant fishing industry innovations in response to consumer demands for novel, balanced healthy products exhibiting high nutritional value, as well as easy to prepare and ready to consume, have led to the emergence of new technologies. Among them, the development of products based on ground beef and fish mixtures are noteworthy. In this context, the purpose of this study was to develop products from different ground rainbow trout and tilapia fillet ratios, in the form of meatballs and nuggets, determining their proximate composition and physico-chemical, microbiological and toxicological characteristics. The average dry matter percentage of the developed products was 29.20±2.30%, while mineral content was 1.45±0.55%, lipid pulp content, 3.70±0.30% and crude pulp protein, 16.60±2.04%. Total psychotropic counts remained below 102 CFU/g, for standard counting on aerobic microorganism plates. Histamine and sulfur-based compounds were not detected in any of the prepared samples. The purpose of the work proposal was to develop foods and technologies that can serve as standards, allowing for simple handling products that apply ground meat mixtures from different fish species to maintain adequate nutritional indices after processing.(AU)

A constante inovação da indústria pesqueira, em resposta às demandas dos consumidores por novos produtos saudáveis, com alto valor nutritivo, balanceados, de fácil preparo e prontos para consumo, levou ao surgimento de novas tecnologias, entre elas o desenvolvimento de produtos à base de mistura de carne moída de pescado. Nesse contexto, a proposta deste trabalho é desenvolver produtos a partir de carne moída de pescado de truta-arco-íris e tilápia, confeccionando almôndegas e nuggets em diferentes proporções, com determinação da composição centesimal e de suas características físico-químicas, microbiológicas e toxicológicas. A matéria seca percentual média foi de 29,20±2,30%. Teores de matéria mineral nos produtos estão em 1,45±0,55%. Os teores de lipídeos aferidos na polpa foram de 3,70±0,30%, e os níveis de proteína bruta apresentados na polpa de 16,60±2,04%. A contagem de psicrotróficos totais manteve-se abaixo de 102 CFU/g, para contagem padrão em placas de micro-organismos aeróbicos. Nas amostras, não foram detectados níveis de histamina e de compostos à base de enxofre. A proposta de trabalho objetivou, por fim, desenvolver alimentos e tecnologias que possam servir como padrões, permitindo que produtos de manipulação simples e que utilizem misturas de carne moída de diferentes espécies de pescado mantenham índices nutricionais adequados após o processamento.(AU)

Cirurgia corretiva para coloboma palpebral em um felino através da técnica de transposição da comissura labial / Corrective surgery for palpebral coloboma in a feline using the technique of transposition of the lip commissure

Background: Eyelid coloboma is considered a disease caused by failure in eye development during the first semester of pregnancy. In felines, its prevalence occurs in the upper eyelids, temporal region, and bilaterally. Coloboma, whether to a large or small extent, can lead to keratoconjunctivitis sicca and trichiasis, situations that can give rise to secondary ulcerative keratitis. The only corrective method is blepharoplasty. The current work aims to report the case of corrective surgery for eyelid coloboma in a feline with a successful postoperative period, in order to corroborate the effectiveness of the technique. We also report a finding of persistent pupillary membrane. Case: A 7-month-old male feline, no defined breed, was analyzed with a purulent mucus secretion and signs of discomfort in the right eye. After the ophthalmic screening, the presence of a coloboma was identified, which occupied approximately 50% of the size of the upper eyelid, in the temporal-dorsal region of the right eye. The cat had already undergone an enucleation of the left eye due to a perforation arising from ulcerative keratitis. Together with coloboma, the presence of blepharospasm, trichiasis, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, and secondary ulcerative keratitis were diagnosed. The presence of persistent pupillary membrane was also observed, a rare condition in the feline species. To confirm the ulcer, the fluorescein test was applied and treatment with antibiotic eye drops and lacrimomimetics (tear film replacements) drops was administered until the day of surgery, one week later. Concomitant with the institution of treatment prior to surgery, blood was collected for complementary pre-surgical tests such as blood count and biochemistry, which demonstrated satisfactory results. Corrective surgery was then instituted by the technique of transposing the labial commissure...

Automutilação em abutre real (Sarcoramphus papa) mantido em cativeiro / Self-mutilation in king vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) kept in captivity / Automutilación en buitre real (Sarcoramphus papa) mantenido en cautiverio

O abutre real (Sarcoramphus papa) é um pássaro compacto de cor extraordinária, cabeça nua, possui carúnculas e papilas carnudas vermelhas e alaranjadas em torno do bico, a íris é branca com um anel orbital vermelho. Em cativeiro, o estresse é uma condição bastante observada, o que pode levar a automutilação, podendo evoluir para lesões graves na pele e músculos. O objetivo do presente relato é descrever os procedimentos adotados em um caso de automutilação em Sarcoramphus papa, mantido em cativeiro, e a importância do manejo adequado para essa espécie em cativeiro. Foi atendido em um Hospital Veterinário Universitário, um urubu-rei apresentando ferimento contaminado, com exposição óssea na asa direita. Após tratamento o animal foi encaminhado para uma reserva conservacionista para que fosse condicionada a voltar para seu habitat natural.(AU)

The king vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) is a large bird with extraordinary color, bold head, presenting red and orange fleshy papules and papillae around its beak, with white iris and a red orbital ring. In captivity, stress is a condition that is widely observed, which can lead to self-mutilation. Such mutilation, in turn, can progress to severe skin and muscle injuries. The purpose of this report is to describe the procedures adopted in a case of self-mutilation in Sarcoramphus papa, kept in captivity, and the importance of proper management for this species in captivity. The king vulture presenting a contaminated wound with bone exposure on the right wing was treated at a University Veterinary Hospital. After treatment, the bird was sent to a conservation reserve to be conditioned to return to its natural habitat.(AU)

El buitre real (Sarcoramphus papa) es un ave compacta de extraordinario color, cabeza descubierta, tiene carúnculas y papilas carnosas rojas y anaranjadas alrededor del pico, el iris es blanco con un anillo orbital rojo. En cautiverio, el estrés es una condición ampliamente observada, que puede conducir a la automutilación, pudiendo progresar lesiones graves en la piel y músculos. El propósito de este informe es describir los procedimientos adoptados en un caso de automutilación en Sarcoramphus papa, mantenida en cautiverio, y la importancia del manejo adecuado de esta especie en cautiverio. Se atendió en un Hospital Veterinario Universitario, un buitre real presentando una herida contaminada, con exposición ósea en el ala derecha. Luego después del tratamiento, se envió el animal a una reserva de conservación para que fuera condicionado a volver a su hábitat natural.(AU)

Automutilação em abutre real (Sarcoramphus papa) mantido em cativeiro / Self-mutilation in king vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) kept in captivity / Automutilación en buitre real (Sarcoramphus papa) mantenido en cautiverio

O abutre real (Sarcoramphus papa) é um pássaro compacto de cor extraordinária, cabeça nua, possui carúnculas e papilas carnudas vermelhas e alaranjadas em torno do bico, a íris é branca com um anel orbital vermelho. Em cativeiro, o estresse é uma condição bastante observada, o que pode levar a automutilação, podendo evoluir para lesões graves na pele e músculos. O objetivo do presente relato é descrever os procedimentos adotados em um caso de automutilação em Sarcoramphus papa, mantido em cativeiro, e a importância do manejo adequado para essa espécie em cativeiro. Foi atendido em um Hospital Veterinário Universitário, um urubu-rei apresentando ferimento contaminado, com exposição óssea na asa direita. Após tratamento o animal foi encaminhado para uma reserva conservacionista para que fosse condicionada a voltar para seu habitat natural.(AU)

The king vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) is a large bird with extraordinary color, bold head, presenting red and orange fleshy papules and papillae around its beak, with white iris and a red orbital ring. In captivity, stress is a condition that is widely observed, which can lead to self-mutilation. Such mutilation, in turn, can progress to severe skin and muscle injuries. The purpose of this report is to describe the procedures adopted in a case of self-mutilation in Sarcoramphus papa, kept in captivity, and the importance of proper management for this species in captivity. The king vulture presenting a contaminated wound with bone exposure on the right wing was treated at a University Veterinary Hospital. After treatment, the bird was sent to a conservation reserve to be conditioned to return to its natural habitat.(AU)

El buitre real (Sarcoramphus papa) es un ave compacta de extraordinario color, cabeza descubierta, tiene carúnculas y papilas carnosas rojas y anaranjadas alrededor del pico, el iris es blanco con un anillo orbital rojo. En cautiverio, el estrés es una condición ampliamente observada, que puede conducir a la automutilación, pudiendo progresar lesiones graves en la piel y músculos. El propósito de este informe es describir los procedimientos adoptados en un caso de automutilación en Sarcoramphus papa, mantenida en cautiverio, y la importancia del manejo adecuado de esta especie en cautiverio. Se atendió en un Hospital Veterinario Universitario, un buitre real presentando una herida contaminada, con exposición ósea en el ala derecha. Luego después del tratamiento, se envió el animal a una reserva de conservación para que fuera condicionado a volver a su hábitat natural.(AU)

Automutilação em abutre real (Sarcoramphus papa) mantido em cativeiro / Self-mutilation in king vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) kept in captivity / Automutilación en buitre real (Sarcoramphus papa) mantenido en cautiverio

O abutre real (Sarcoramphus papa) é um pássaro compacto de cor extraordinária, cabeça nua, possui carúnculas e papilas carnudas vermelhas e alaranjadas em torno do bico, a íris é branca com um anel orbital vermelho. Em cativeiro, o estresse é uma condição bastante observada, o que pode levar a automutilação, podendo evoluir para lesões graves na pele e músculos. O objetivo do presente relato é descrever os procedimentos adotados em um caso de automutilação em Sarcoramphus papa, mantido em cativeiro, e a importância do manejo adequado para essa espécie em cativeiro. Foi atendido em um Hospital Veterinário Universitário, um urubu-rei apresentando ferimento contaminado, com exposição óssea na asa direita. Após tratamento o animal foi encaminhado para uma reserva conservacionista para que fosse condicionada a voltar para seu habitat natural.(AU)

The king vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) is a large bird with extraordinary color, bold head, presenting red and orange fleshy papules and papillae around its beak, with white iris and a red orbital ring. In captivity, stress is a condition that is widely observed, which can lead to self-mutilation. Such mutilation, in turn, can progress to severe skin and muscle injuries. The purpose of this report is to describe the procedures adopted in a case of self-mutilation in Sarcoramphus papa, kept in captivity, and the importance of proper management for this species in captivity. The king vulture presenting a contaminated wound with bone exposure on the right wing was treated at a University Veterinary Hospital. After treatment, the bird was sent to a conservation reserve to be conditioned to return to its natural habitat.(AU)

El buitre real (Sarcoramphus papa) es un ave compacta de extraordinario color, cabeza descubierta, tiene carúnculas y papilas carnosas rojas y anaranjadas alrededor del pico, el iris es blanco con un anillo orbital rojo. En cautiverio, el estrés es una condición ampliamente observada, que puede conducir a la automutilación, pudiendo progresar lesiones graves en la piel y músculos. El propósito de este informe es describir los procedimientos adoptados en un caso de automutilación en Sarcoramphus papa, mantenida en cautiverio, y la importancia del manejo adecuado de esta especie en cautiverio. Se atendió en un Hospital Veterinario Universitario, un buitre real presentando una herida contaminada, con exposición ósea en el ala derecha. Luego después del tratamiento, se envió el animal a una reserva de conservación para que fuera condicionado a volver a su hábitat natural.(AU)

Uso da hidrodissecção para remoção de flap conjuntival em 360° em cão – relato de caso / Use of hydrodissection to removal 360° conjunctival flap in dog case report

O objetivo desse trabalho foi relatar um caso onde foi usado a hidrodissecção para auxiliar na remoção da aderência de flap conjuntival em 360° em córnea, em um cão. Foi atendido um cão da raça buldogue francês, macho, 2 anos, 18 kg, apresentando olho esquerdo com presença de um flap conjuntival em 360°, em decorrência de tratamento prévio de uma úlcera em melting extensa há 40 dias. Após a realização de exames pré-operatórios de rotina, o paciente foi submetido a um novo procedimento cirúrgico para remoção do flap. Para isso foi realizada a técnica de hidrodissecção, que consistiu na injeção de 2 mL cloreto de sódio a 0,9% sob flap o conjuntival, seguida pela divulsão com tesoura de íris, removendo a aderência entre conjuntiva e córnea. O paciente apresentou excelente recuperação pós-operatória, com diminuição da cicatriz na córnea e ausência de inflamação da conjuntiva ao longo de três meses de avaliações seriadas. Concluiu-se que a técnica de hidrodissecção facilitou a remoção do flap conjuntival de 360° no paciente do presente caso, tornando-se uma manobra em potencial para utilização em outros procedimentos semelhantes.

The aim of this case report is to present a case where it was used hydrodissection to remove a 360° conjunctival flap° from a dog. A 2 year old, male french bulldog weighting 18 kg was taken to a veterinary service with a 360° conjunctival flap in its left eye due to a previous treatment of an extensive melting ulcer for the past 40 days. After performing routine preoperative exams, a new surgical procedure was performed to remove the flap. The technique of choice was hydrodissection, which consisted of injecting 2 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride under conjunctival flap, followed by the divulsion, releasing the conjunctiva from its corneal bed with the use of iris scissors until complete removal of the tissue. The patient showed excellent postoperative recovery, with decreased corneal scarring and no inflammation of the conjunctiva over 3 months of post op evaluation. The hydrodissection technique has facilitated the removal of the 360° conjunctival flap in this present case, making it a potential technique of choice in other similar procedures.

Uso da hidrodissecção para remoção de flap conjuntival em 360° em cão relato de caso / Use of hydrodissection to removal 360° conjunctival flap in dog case report

O objetivo desse trabalho foi relatar um caso onde foi usado a hidrodissecção para auxiliar na remoção da aderência de flap conjuntival em 360° em córnea, em um cão. Foi atendido um cão da raça buldogue francês, macho, 2 anos, 18 kg, apresentando olho esquerdo com presença de um flap conjuntival em 360°, em decorrência de tratamento prévio de uma úlcera em melting extensa há 40 dias. Após a realização de exames pré-operatórios de rotina, o paciente foi submetido a um novo procedimento cirúrgico para remoção do flap. Para isso foi realizada a técnica de hidrodissecção, que consistiu na injeção de 2 mL cloreto de sódio a 0,9% sob flap o conjuntival, seguida pela divulsão com tesoura de íris, removendo a aderência entre conjuntiva e córnea. O paciente apresentou excelente recuperação pós-operatória, com diminuição da cicatriz na córnea e ausência de inflamação da conjuntiva ao longo de três meses de avaliações seriadas. Concluiu-se que a técnica de hidrodissecção facilitou a remoção do flap conjuntival de 360° no paciente do presente caso, tornando-se uma manobra em potencial para utilização em outros procedimentos semelhantes.(AU)

The aim of this case report is to present a case where it was used hydrodissection to remove a 360° conjunctival flap° from a dog. A 2 year old, male french bulldog weighting 18 kg was taken to a veterinary service with a 360° conjunctival flap in its left eye due to a previous treatment of an extensive melting ulcer for the past 40 days. After performing routine preoperative exams, a new surgical procedure was performed to remove the flap. The technique of choice was hydrodissection, which consisted of injecting 2 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride under conjunctival flap, followed by the divulsion, releasing the conjunctiva from its corneal bed with the use of iris scissors until complete removal of the tissue. The patient showed excellent postoperative recovery, with decreased corneal scarring and no inflammation of the conjunctiva over 3 months of post op evaluation. The hydrodissection technique has facilitated the removal of the 360° conjunctival flap in this present case, making it a potential technique of choice in other similar procedures.(AU)

Occurrence of Amblyomma rotundatum Koch, 1844 on Epicrates assisi Machado, 1945 in João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil / Ocorrência de Amblyomma rotundatum Koch, 1844 em Epicrates assisi Machado, 1945 em João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil

The Caatinga rainbow boa (Epicrates assisi Machado, 1945) is a snake belonging to the order Squamata, family Boidae, and subfamily Boinae. It has a wide distribution in Brazil and can be found in the Caatinga biome. The present study aims to report the first occurrence of Amblyomma rotundatum on E. assisi in the municipality of João Pessoa, Paraíba State (PB). On March 3, 2020, a tick collection was performed on the dorsal region of the head of an E. assisi, which was captive at the Arruda Câmara Zoobotanical Park, João Pessoa-PB. After collecting the tick, it was transferred to a flask containing 70º alcohol and sent to the Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid (UFERSA) for analysis. Identification was done with the aid of a stereomicroscope using a taxonomic key. The result identified this specimen as a nymph of A. rotundatum. The occurrence of this tick species on E. assisi is reported for the first time and constitutes new data applicable to the ectoparasites that occur in this host species in Brazil.

A jiboia arco-íris da Caatinga (Epicrates assisi Machado, 1945) é uma serpente pertencente à ordem Squamata, família Boidae, e subfamília Boinae. Esta possui ampla distribuição no Brasil, podendo ser encontrada no bioma Caatinga. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo relatar a primeira ocorrência de Amblyomma rotundatum em E. assisi no Município de João Pessoa, no Estado da Paraíba (PB). No dia 03 de março de 2020, foi realizada uma coleta de carrapato na região dorsal da cabeça de uma E. assisi, que se encontrava cativa no Parque Zoobotânico Arruda Câmara, João Pessoa-PB. Após a coleta do carrapato, este foi transferido para um frasco contendo álcool 70º e encaminhado ao Laboratório de Parasitologia Animal da Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido (UFERSA) para análise. A identificação foi realizada com o auxílio de estere-omicroscópio usando-se chave taxonômica. O resultado identificou o referido espécime como uma ninfa de A. rotundatum. A ocorrência dessa espécie de carrapato em E. assisi é relatada pela primeira vez e constitui um novo dado aplicável aos ecto-parasitos que ocorrem nessa espécie hospedeira no Brasil.

Occurrence of Amblyomma rotundatum Koch, 1844 on Epicrates assisi Machado, 1945 in João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil / Ocorrência de Amblyomma rotundatum Koch, 1844 em Epicrates assisi Machado, 1945 em João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil

The Caatinga rainbow boa (Epicrates assisi Machado, 1945) is a snake belonging to the order Squamata, family Boidae, and subfamily Boinae. It has a wide distribution in Brazil and can be found in the Caatinga biome. The present study aims to report the first occurrence of Amblyomma rotundatum on E. assisi in the municipality of João Pessoa, Paraíba State (PB). On March 3, 2020, a tick collection was performed on the dorsal region of the head of an E. assisi, which was captive at the Arruda Câmara Zoobotanical Park, João Pessoa-PB. After collecting the tick, it was transferred to a flask containing 70º alcohol and sent to the Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid (UFERSA) for analysis. Identification was done with the aid of a stereomicroscope using a taxonomic key. The result identified this specimen as a nymph of A. rotundatum. The occurrence of this tick species on E. assisi is reported for the first time and constitutes new data applicable to the ectoparasites that occur in this host species in Brazil.(AU)

A jiboia arco-íris da Caatinga (Epicrates assisi Machado, 1945) é uma serpente pertencente à ordem Squamata, família Boidae, e subfamília Boinae. Esta possui ampla distribuição no Brasil, podendo ser encontrada no bioma Caatinga. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo relatar a primeira ocorrência de Amblyomma rotundatum em E. assisi no Município de João Pessoa, no Estado da Paraíba (PB). No dia 03 de março de 2020, foi realizada uma coleta de carrapato na região dorsal da cabeça de uma E. assisi, que se encontrava cativa no Parque Zoobotânico Arruda Câmara, João Pessoa-PB. Após a coleta do carrapato, este foi transferido para um frasco contendo álcool 70º e encaminhado ao Laboratório de Parasitologia Animal da Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido (UFERSA) para análise. A identificação foi realizada com o auxílio de estere-omicroscópio usando-se chave taxonômica. O resultado identificou o referido espécime como uma ninfa de A. rotundatum. A ocorrência dessa espécie de carrapato em E. assisi é relatada pela primeira vez e constitui um novo dado aplicável aos ecto-parasitos que ocorrem nessa espécie hospedeira no Brasil.(AU)

Clinical and nutritional follow-up of cats with chronic kidney disease fed with a renal prescription diet

Background: The use of prescription diets for cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the main managementapproach of this disease in cats, and is considered a renoprotective strategy that may promote increased survival and/orimprove quality of life, according to the stage of CKD. Besides that, nutritional assessment is important to monitor themaintenance of quality of life of the patients and their response to disease, especially those with chronic conditions. Theaim of this study was to follow the clinical and nutritional status of cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) IRIS stagesII, III and IV fed with a renal prescription diet, followed for 12 months.Materials, Methods & Results: Patients were fed exclusively with a dry renal prescription diet and medications for themanagement of CKD were prescribed when needed. Exclusion criteria were cats that already received a renal prescriptiondiet or medications for the treatment of CKD. Cats were evaluated every 2 months, considering body weight (BW), bodycondition score (BCS), muscle mass score (MMS), clinical and laboratory parameters. In all assessments, a complete bloodcount and biochemistry were performed by conventional methods with the patient fasted for 12 h. In addition, urinalysis,urine protein:creatinine ratio (UPC) and urine culture were performed from a urine sample collected by cystocentesis.The quantitative variables were tested for their stability on consecutive assessments using the non-parametric Friedmantest, and did not present significant variation during follow-up, except for systolic blood pressure (SBP). Eight cats witha diagnosis of CKD were included in the study and 6 of them remained in the same CKD stage during follow-up. On catdied due to an unrelated CKD cause. Regarding nutritional assessment, 5 of 7 cats maintained BW during the 12 months...