Examination of the pharmacokinetics and differential inhibition of cyclooxygenase isoenzymes in New Zealand white rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) by the Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory Robenacoxib.

Effective rabbit analgesia is challenging, and there are few studies available on the newer COX-2 selective NSAIDs, such as robenacoxib. This study aimed to establish the pharmacokinetics of oral and subcutaneous robenacoxib, describe its inhibitory actions on COX enzymes, and develop dosing, using six healthy New Zealand white rabbits. Pharmacokinetics were determined from plasma concentrations after oral administration of robenacoxib (0.83-0.96 mg/kg) and also after subcutaneous administration (2 mg/kg). The inhibitory actions of robenacoxib were evaluated by measuring plasma concentrations of thromboxane B2 (TBX2 ) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ) as surrogate markers of cyclooxygenase enzyme isoform inhibition. The mean maximum concentration for oral and subcutaneous administration was 0.23 µg/ml and 5.82 µg/ml, respectively. Oral robenacoxib administration did not demonstrate a significant difference between any time point for PGE2 or TBX2 , though subcutaneous administration did for both. There was no significant difference in PGE2 or TBX2 concentrations at any time point when comparing subcutaneous versus oral routes. Although the results support that plasma robenacoxib exceeds the therapeutic levels compared to dogs and cats, there was little significance in the difference in the changes associated with COX-1 and COX-2 inhibition. Further studies are warranted to determine appropriate dosing, safety, and efficacy in rabbits.

Diagnosis and management of a peripheral T-cell lymphoproliferative disease in an American pine marten (Martes americana).

A 9-year-old neutered male American pine marten (Martes americana) was referred for further evaluation of suspected lymphoproliferative disease. On physical examination, the pine marten was determined to be in an underconditioned state with an enlarged right mandibular lymph node. Hematology revealed a marked leukocytosis characterized by a lymphocytosis. Flow cytometry performed on peripheral blood was suggestive of a CD4+ T-cell lymphoproliferative disease. Whole-body radiographs demonstrated a large cranial mediastinal mass and splenomegaly. These findings were confirmed using ultrasound, which also identified intra-abdominal lymphadenopathy and splenic nodules. Cytologic evaluation of aspirates from the mediastinal mass was interpreted as possible lymphoma. The pine marten was treated with chlorambucil and prednisolone and achieved a durable partial remission. Twelve months after initial diagnosis, progressive disease was noted and treatment with lomustine was initiated as a rescue protocol until euthanasia, which was carried out 15 mo after the initial diagnosis. Based on a literature search, this is the first case report describing the management of peripheral T-cell lymphoproliferative disease, presumably peripheral lymphoma, in a pine marten; this neoplasm should be considered as a differential diagnosis in pine martens that have abnormal complete blood cell count findings and enlarged lymph nodes. Key clinical message: This report describes the diagnosis and management of a peripheral T-cell lymphoproliferative disease, presumably peripheral lymphoma, in an American pine marten (Martes americana). This is the first report of this disease and its successful treatment in a pine marten.

Diagnostic et prise en charge d'une maladie lymphoproliférative à cellules T périphériques chez une martre d'Amérique ( Martes americana ). Une martre d'Amérique (Martes americana) mâle castré âgé de 9 ans a été référée pour une évaluation plus approfondie d'une suspicion de maladie lymphoproliférative. À l'examen physique, il a été déterminé que la martre était dans un état sous-optimal avec un ganglion lymphatique mandibulaire droit élargi. L'hématologie a révélé une hyperleucocytose marquée caractérisée par une lymphocytose. La cytométrie en flux réalisée sur le sang périphérique était évocatrice d'une maladie lymphoproliférative des lymphocytes T CD4+. Les radiographies du corps entier ont montré une importante masse médiastinale crânienne et une splénomégalie. Ces résultats ont été confirmés par échographie, qui a également identifié une lymphadénopathie intra-abdominale et des nodules spléniques. L'évaluation cytologique des aspirations de la masse médiastinale a été interprétée comme un possible lymphome. La martre d'Amérique a été traitée avec du chlorambucil et de la prednisolone et une rémission partielle durable a été obtenue. Douze mois après le diagnostic initial, une progression de la maladie a été notée et un traitement par lomustine a été initié comme protocole de sauvetage jusqu'à l'euthanasie, qui a été réalisée 15 mois après le diagnostic initial. Sur la base d'une recherche documentaire, il s'agit du premier rapport de cas décrivant la prise en charge d'une maladie lymphoproliférative périphérique à cellules T, vraisemblablement un lymphome périphérique, chez une martre d'Amérique; ce néoplasme doit être considéré comme un diagnostic différentiel chez les martres d'Amérique qui présentent des résultats anormaux de numération globulaire complète et des ganglions lymphatiques hypertrophiés.Message clinique clé :Ce rapport décrit le diagnostic et la prise en charge d'une maladie lymphoproliférative à cellules T périphériques, vraisemblablement un lymphome périphérique, chez une martre d'Amérique (Martes americana). Il s'agit du premier signalement de cette maladie et de son traitement réussi chez une martre d'Amérique.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Palliative Radiation Therapy for Treatment of Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma in a Double Yellow-headed Amazon Parrot (Amazona oratrix).

A 17-year-old captive female double yellow-headed Amazon parrot (Amazona oratrix) was presented to the Kansas State University Zoological Medicine Service (Manhattan, KS, USA) for a 2-month history of a left sided facial swelling. On examination, a red, raised mass was noted on the left side of the face. A whole-body computed tomography scan of the bird was performed to assess the extent of the mass and evaluate the patient for obvious evidence of disseminated disease. No systemic involvement was detected, and the swelling was localized to the cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues overlying the left rhamphotheca. Two punch biopsies were collected, and histopathology was consistent with cutaneous lymphoma, with strong positive CD3 staining congruous with a T-cell origin. Because of a lack of evidence for disseminated disease, the authors elected to pursue localized radiation therapy, and a single fraction of 8 Gray was administered. The swelling had resolved by the time of the recheck examination 4 weeks post-radiation therapy, and the patient remained clinically normal 52 weeks after radiation therapy.

A three-portal laparoscopic hysterectomy in a chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) with a uterine manipulator and vessel sealing device.

OBJECTIVE: To report the treatment and outcome of a a captive chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) undergoing 3-portal laparoscopic hysterectomy. Additionally, the technique used for successful urinary catheterization is described. ANIMALS: A 29-year-old female intact chimpanzee with uterine bleeding. STUDY DESIGN: Clinical case report. METHODS: Uterine changes consistent with adenomyosis and/or endometriosis were noted on abdominal ultrasonographic and computed tomographic examinations. A urinary catheter was placed before a 3-portal laparoscopic hysterectomy with a uterine manipulator (VCare) and a vessel sealer (Ligasure). The uterus was submitted for histopathology. RESULTS: Preoperative urinary catheterization was achieved with several modifications and prevented bladder protrusion into the surgical field. Laparoscopy provided excellent visualization of the pelvic structures and VCare effectively maneuvered the uterus for a safe and efficient dissection. The use of the vessel sealer was effective, and bleeding was minimal. Anesthesia and surgery lasted 240 and 150 minutes, respectively. No complications were encountered. Histopathological changes of the uterus were consistent with adenomyosis and myometrial hyperplasia. The chimpanzee recovered uneventfully and returned to normal behavior with no recurrence of uterine bleeding 5 months after surgery. CONCLUSION: The 3-portal laparoscopic technique reported here allowed hysterectomy without complication in this chimpanzee. Urinary catheterization was technically challenging but successful.

Hypofractionated radiation therapy of a thyroid tumor in a pet raccoon (Procyon lotor).

Thyroid neoplasia has been documented in raccoons; however, successful management and treatment has not been well-described. A 15-year-old, intact female pet raccoon (Procyon lotor) was examined for evaluation of a right-sided ventral cervical mass and a cough of 4 to 5 mo duration. Cytology and computed tomography (CT) findings of the mass were most consistent with a thyroid tumor. The raccoon was treated with a hypofractionated external beam radiation protocol (8 Gy/fraction for 4 once/wk fractions). Treatments were well-tolerated and no radiation-induced side effects were detected. This is the first report of radiation treatment of thyroid neoplasia in a raccoon, presenting the challenges of animals that are difficult to handle or medicate.

Radiothérapie hypofractionnée d'une tumeur thyroïdienne chez un raton-laveur ( Procyon lotor ). La néoplasie thyroïdienne a été documentée chez les ratons-laveurs; cependant, la gestion et le traitement réussis n'ont pas été bien décrits. Un raton-laveur femelle intact de 15 ans (Procyon lotor) a été examiné pour l'évaluation d'une masse cervicale ventrale droite et d'une toux d'une durée de 4 à 5 mois. Les résultats de la cytologie et de la tomodensitométrie (CT) de la masse étaient les plus compatibles avec une tumeur thyroïdienne. Le raton-laveur a été traité avec un protocole de rayonnement externe hypofractionné (8 Gy/fraction pour quatre fractions 1 fois/semaine). Les traitements ont été bien tolérés et aucun effet secondaire radio-induit n'a été détecté. Il s'agit du premier rapport de radiothérapie d'une néoplasie thyroïdienne chez un raton-laveur, présentant les défis des animaux difficiles à manipuler ou à soigner.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Evaluation of a dexmedetomidine-midazolam-ketamine combination administered intramuscularly in captive ornate box turtles (Terrapene ornata ornata).

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the effects of a combination protocol of dexmedetomidine-midazolam-ketamine (DMK) administered intramuscularly (IM) in ornate box turtles (Terrapene ornata ornata). STUDY DESIGN: Prospective experimental trial. ANIMALS: A total of 16 apparently clinically healthy adult ornate box turtles (eight male, eight female). METHODS: Each turtle was treated with dexmedetomidine (0.1 mg kg-1), midazolam (1 mg kg-1) and ketamine (10 mg kg-1) administered IM. Time to first response, time to maximal effect, the plateau phase and time to recovery from reversal administration were recorded. Physiologic variables, muscle tone, reflexes and the ability to perform endotracheal intubation were recorded at 5 minute intervals. Movement in response to an IM injection of 0.1 mL sterile 0.9% NaCl administered in the left pelvic limb, using a 25 gauge needle to a depth of just past the bevel of the needle, was assessed every 15 minutes. Atipamezole (0.5 mg kg-1) IM and flumazenil (0.05 mg kg-1) SC were administered 60 minutes after the initial DMK injections. RESULTS: The mean time to first response, time to maximal effect, the plateau phase and time to recovery were 2.1, 14.9, 38.7 and 7.8 minutes, respectively. A respiratory rate was not observed in most turtles. The body temperature significantly increased over time. The palpebral reflex was persistent in 43% of turtles and the tail pinch reflex remained intact in 13% of turtles. All turtles recovered with no observed adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In this study, this DMK protocol administered to ornate box turtles resulted in a rapid-onset, light anesthesia lasting approximately 40 minutes and a smooth recovery with no adverse effects noted.

Iridociliary adenoma in a greater sulfur-crested cockatoo (Cacatua galerita galerita).

A 34-year-old female greater sulfur-crested cockatoo (Cacatua galerita galerita) was referred for suspected left globe rupture. Ophthalmic examination revealed effacement of the anterior chamber and cornea by a large mass. The left eye was enucleated due to suspicion of globe rupture, secondary to a neoplastic process or chronic trauma. Histopathological examination revealed complete effacement of the internal ocular structures by a neoplasm morphologically consistent with an iridociliary adenoma. The diagnosis was confirmed by Periodic acid-Schiff histochemistry and immunohistochemistry for S100, Melan-A/PNL2, and vimentin antigens. The cockatoo recovered well from surgery, with appropriate healing of the enucleation site, and no evidence of recurrence at 1-year follow-up. Key clinical message: To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of iridociliary adenoma in a greater sulfur-crested cockatoo, and the third report of such a neoplasm in a psittacine species with a description of the use of immunohistochemistry to confirm a diagnosis of a rare tumor in a bird species.

Adénome iridociliaire chez un cacatoès à crête de soufre (Cacatua galerita galerita) . Une femelle cacatoès à crête de soufre (Cacatua galerita galerita) âgée de 34 ans a été référée pour suspicion de rupture du globe oculaire gauche. L'examen ophtalmique a révélé un effacement de la chambre antérieure et de la cornée par une masse importante. L'oeil gauche fut énucléé en raison d'une suspicion de rupture du globe oculaire, secondaire à un processus néoplasique ou à un traumatisme chronique. L'examen histopathologique a révélé un effacement complet des structures oculaires internes par un néoplasme morphologiquement compatible avec un adénome iridociliaire. Le diagnostic a été confirmé par histochimie avec coloration PAS (Periodic acid-Schiff ) et immunohistochimie pour les antigènes S100, Melan-A/PNL2 et vimentine. Le cacatoès s'est bien rétabli de la chirurgie, avec une guérison appropriée du site d'énucléation, et aucun signe de récidive à 1 an de suivi.Message clinique clé :À la connaissance des auteurs, il s'agit du premier rapport d'adénome iridociliaire chez un grand cacatoès à crête de soufre et du troisième rapport d'un tel néoplasme chez une espèce psittacidé avec une description de l'utilisation de l'immunohistochimie pour confirmer le diagnostic d'une tumeur rare chez une espèce d'oiseau.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Asymmetrical Cloacoplasty for the Treatment of Chronic Cloacal Prolapse in Psittaciformes: A Case Series.

Chronic cloacal prolapse is a common condition in psittacine birds, particularly in cockatoos and African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus). Techniques to permanently reduce the prolapse have been developed and include cloacal sutures, percutaneous cloacopexy, and open circumcostal or rib cloacopexy. Several complications, some of which are life-threatening, have been reported with these tissue reduction techniques. Cloacoplasty surgeries have also been advocated, but most often as an adjunct therapy. Recurrence of cloacal prolapse may occur in traditional symmetrical cloacoplasty techniques since straining pressure remains. In this case series, 5 psittacine birds (2 male and 2 female umbrella cockatoos [Cacatua alba] and 1 male African grey parrot) with chronic recurrent cloacal prolapses were treated with a novel asymmetrical cloacoplasty technique. A semicircular excision at the mucocutaneous junction from the right side with a 2-layer closure reduced the cloacal opening by 50%-75%. A tension-relieving suture was applied to aid in healing of the incision. All 5 cases had successful outcomes with no recurrent prolapses (6 months to 3 years of follow-up), except for 1 case, due to incisional dehiscence. This animal underwent a second surgical procedure that incorporated the tension-relieving suture and has not had a recurrent prolapse in over a year. This asymmetrical cloacoplasty technique provides a simple but effective method of cloacal prolapse treatment and prevention in cases of recurrent and chronic cloacal prolapses, and creates a midline physical barrier not present in symmetrical cloacoplasties. Long-term complications may include cloacolith formation or dystocia in females, and therefore reproductive management of female birds is required.

OUTBREAK AND TREATMENT OF CARP EDEMA VIRUS IN KOI ( CYPRINUS CARPIO) FROM NORTHERN CALIFORNIA.

Carp edema virus (CEV) is the causative agent of carp edema virus disease (CEVD), also referred to as koi sleepy disease, which is an emerging disease of global concern that may cause high rates of morbidity and mortality in common carp and ornamental koi ( Cyprinus carpio). This article reports the third confirmed outbreak of CEVD in California. In June 2015, three koi presented with clinical signs of cutaneous lesions, severe lethargy, and signs of hypoxia. All fish tested positive for CEV by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Euthanasia and complete necropsy were performed on two fish. The most significant necropsy findings included necrotizing branchitis with marked interstitial edema, multifocal cutaneous ulcerations, and severe cutaneous edema. Treatment of the pond with 0.3-0.5% salt was recommended to the owner. Approximately 7 wk later, a recheck visit was made to the pond. No mortalities had been noted since the initiation of the salt treatment. Physical examination revealed a vast improvement but not complete elimination of the clinical signs of hypoxia and intermittent lethargy in the affected fish. Gill biopsy samples from the two most affected fish were tested and remained PCR positive for CEV. Subsequent recheck visits over 11 mo postdiagnosis and initiation of treatment showed continued improvement in most fish. Gill samples from all fish in the pond ( n = 9) were repeatedly tested by quantitative PCR for CEV, and all samples were negative. This case series further confirms the global spread of CEV and the need for practitioners to be vigilant for outbreaks of this disease. If CEVD is suspected, treatment with 0.3-0.5% salt can be recommended to potentially mitigate the effects of this disease. However, fish may remain potential carriers of this pathogen, and strict biosecurity measures should continue to be enforced for any pond that has had a confirmed CEV outbreak.

COAGULATION PARAMETERS IN THE AMERICAN FLAMINGO (PHOENICOPTERUS RUBER).

American flamingos ( Phoenicopterus ruber ) are commonly kept in zoologic collections. When presented to veterinarians in states of health and illness, evaluation of selected coagulation parameters can aid in assessment of various coagulopathies, as well as other disease processes such as septicemia, vasculitis, and hepatic disease. Sixteen American flamingos (eight males, eight females) were presented for annual health evaluations. A blood sample was collected from the medial metatarsal vein, and prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen, and fibrin degradation products (FDPs) were evaluated using an automated hemostasis analyzer. Results were reported as median and range (minimum-maximum): PT = 72.7 (39 to >100 sec), APTT = 97.5 (6.1 to >200 sec), fibrinogen = 184 (138-364 mg/dl), and FDPs = <5 (<5 to >20 µg/ml). To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of coagulation parameters in American flamingos. Knowledge of coagulation parameters will allow for better clinical assessment and management of American flamingos.

DIAGNOSIS AND SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT OF EIMERIA INFECTION IN A GROUP OF ZOO-KEPT BLACK-TAILED PRAIRIE DOGS (CYNOMYS LUDOVICIANUS).

A group of seven, zoo-kept, male black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) were examined as part of their quarantine health evaluation. Microscopic fecal examination demonstrated that all animals were passing oocysts of Eimeria spp. All prairie dogs were treated individually with ponazuril (30 mg/kg p.o.) administered in two treatments 48 hr apart. Three weekly pooled fecal samples following treatment were negative, suggesting clearing of the infection. No adverse clinical signs were noted. Most of the reported anti-coccidian treatments in rodents describe prolonged treatment protocols or administration of treatment in the water, which can result in unnecessary stress and handling or ineffective and uncontrolled level of drug administration, respectively. This is the first report of this treatment protocol in a rodent species, suggesting it is efficacious, easy to administer, and safe when treating similar infections in prairie dogs.

Diagnosis and treatment of a periocular myxosarcoma in a bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps).

A 5-year-old male Australian bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) was presented with a 2-month history of a periocular mass. The clinical evaluation included a physical examination, hematology, biochemistry, and radiographs. The mass was treated surgically and diagnosed as myxosarcoma. Strontium-90 plesiotherapy was attempted, but the mass recurred 5 mo later.

Diagnostic et traitement d'un myosarcome périoculaire chez un dragon barbu(Pogona vitticeps) . Un dragon barbu mâle âgé de 5 ans (Pogona vitticeps) a été présenté avec une anamnèse de masse périoculaire apparue depuis 2 mois. L'évaluation clinique a inclus un examen physique, une hématologie, une biochimie et des radiographies. La masse a été traitée par chirurgie et diagnostiquée comme un myosarcome. Une plésiothérapie au strontium-90 a été tentée, mais la masse est revenue 5 mois plus tard.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

Intraocular sarcoma associated with a rupture lens in a rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

This case report describes the clinical manifestations and ocular pathology of an intraocular sarcoma in a spayed female 7-year-old rabbit that developed clinical signs consistent with phacoclastic uveitis at 6 months of age, which was left untreated for most of the next 6 years. Ophthalmologic examination confirmed pupillary occlusion, aqueous flare, fibrin, and lens debris within the anterior chamber of the right eye. The right eye was blind and phthisical. The tentative clinical diagnosis was chronic phacoclastic uveitis, and a routine transconjunctival enucleation of the right eye was completed. The globe was formalin-fixed and submitted for histologic examination. Light microscopic examination revealed a ruptured cataractous lens, uveitis, retinal detachment, and an intraocular sarcoma centered around the lens. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was positive for smooth muscle actin and vimentin and negative for Desmin and cytokeratin intermediate filaments.

Diagnosis and successful surgical treatment of an unusual inguinal liposarcoma in a pet ferret (Mustela putorius furo).

A 4 1/2-year-old female spayed ferret (Mustela putorius furo) was presented for a rapidly growing mass in the inguinal region. Following a complete clinical evaluation, the unusual mass was surgically removed and the histopathological diagnosis was an inguinal liposarcoma. No post-operative complications were observed over a 14-month follow-up period.

Diagnostic et traitement chirurgical réussi d'un liposarcome inguinal inhabituel chez un furet de compagnie (Mustela putorius furo) . Un furet (Mustela putorius furo) femelle stérilisé âgé de 4 ans et demi a été présenté pour une masse à croissance rapide dans la région inguinale. Après une évaluation clinique complète, une ablation chirurgicale de la masse inhabituelle a été réalisée et le diagnostic histopathologique a été un liposarcome inguinal. Aucune complication postopératoire n'a été observée pendant la période de suivi de 12 mois.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

Point of Care Ultrasound in Exotic Animal Emergency and Critical Care.

Exotic pets are presented to veterinary clinics with increasing frequency for routine, urgent, and emergency needs. With these increased visits, owners' expectations for high-quality veterinary care are also increasing. Many presenting complaints of reptiles, birds, and small mammals can benefit from the use of point of care ultrasound (POCUS) to establish a minimum database, aid in triage, and help guide further diagnostics, treatment, and prognostic discussions with the owner. Hospitalized exotic patients can also have their progress tracked and better assessed with the aid of POCUS.

Association of plasma metabolites and diagnostic imaging findings with hepatic lipidosis in bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) and effects of gemfibrozil therapy.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the association between plasma metabolites, biochemical analytes, diagnostic imaging findings, and the histologic diagnosis of hepatic lipidosis in bearded dragons. To assess the effects of gemfibrozil therapy on hepatic lipid accumulation and associated diagnostic tests. ANIMALS: Fourteen bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) with varying severity of hepatic lipid accumulation (with and without hepatic lipidosis) were included. PROCEDURES: Animals underwent coelomic ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scans, and coelioscopic hepatic biopsies. Clinical pathology tests included lipidologic tests, hepatic biomarkers, and mass spectrometry-based metabolomics. Animals were medicated with gemfibrozil 6mg/kg orally once a day for 2 months in a randomized blinded clinical trial prior to repeating previous diagnostic testing. RESULTS: Hounsfield units on CT were negatively associated with increased hepatic vacuolation, while ultrasound and gross evaluation of the liver were not reliable. Beta-hydroxybutyric-acid (BHBA) concentrations were significantly associated with hepatic lipidosis. Metabolomics and lipidomics data found BHBA and succinic acid to be potential biomarkers for diagnosing hepatic lipidosis in bearded dragons. Succinic acid concentrations were significantly lower in the gemfibrozil treatment group. There was a tendency for improvement in the biomarkers and reduced hepatic fat in bearded dragons with hepatic lipidosis when treated with gemfibrozil, though the improvement was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide information on the antemortem assessment of hepatic lipidosis in bearded dragons and paves the way for further research in diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Pharmacokinetics of mavacoxib in New Zealand White rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

OBJECTIVES: To characterize the pharmacokinetics of a single oral dose (6 mg/kg) of mavacoxib in New Zealand White rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and to characterize any clinicopathologic effects with this medication and dose. ANIMALS: Six healthy, 4-month-old New Zealand White rabbits (3 male, 3 female). PROCEDURES: Before drug administration, clinicopathologic samples were collected for baseline data (CBC, serum biochemical analyses, and urinalysis including urine protein-to-creatinine ratio). All 6 rabbits received a single oral dose (6 mg/kg) of mavacoxib. Clinicopathologic samples were collected at set time intervals to compare with the baseline. Plasma mavacoxib concentrations were determined using liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry, and pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using non-compartmental methods. RESULTS: After a single oral dose, the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax; mean, range) was 854 (713-1040) ng/mL, the time to Cmax (tmax) was 0.36 (0.17-0.50) days, the area under the curve from 0 to the last measured time point (AUC0-last) was 2000 (1765-2307) days*ng/mL, the terminal half-life (t1/2) was 1.63 (1.30-2.26) days, and the terminal rate constant (λz) was 0.42 (0.31-0.53) days. All results for CBCs, serum biochemical analyses, urinalyses, and urine protein-to-creatinine ratios remained within published normal reference intervals. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study determined that plasma concentrations reached target levels of 400 ng/mL for 48 hours in 3/6 rabbits at 6 mg/kg PO. In the remaining 3/6 rabbits, the plasma concentrations were 343-389 ng/mL at 48 hours, which is below the target concentration. Further research is needed to make a dosing recommendation, including a pharmacodynamic study and investigating pharmacokinetics at different doses and multiple doses.

Evaluation of Oral Transmucosal Administration of Pentobarbital for Euthanasia of Conscious Wild Birds.

This prospective study evaluated oral transmucosal pentobarbital sodium at three doses in 110 wild-caught wild birds requiring euthanasia. Birds received transmucosal pentobarbital at five (430 mg/kg), six (516 mg/kg), and seven times (602 mg/kg) the intravenous dose for mammals. Time to first effects and loss of consciousness, presence of pupillary light and corneal reflexes, apnea, and asystole were recorded each minute. When asystole was not achieved at 5 minutes, IV pentobarbital was administered. Combining data for all doses, loss of consciousness occurred at a median (range) of 2 minutes (0-4.75 min), apnea at 3 minutes (0-6 min), and asystole at 4 minutes (0.5-5 min). Loss of consciousness and apnea occurred significantly faster in the 602 mg/kg dose group than in the 430 mg/kg group (p = 0.009, difference of 0.6 ± 0.2 min; p = 0.024, difference of 0.7 ± 0.3 min), respectively. Apnea and asystole were achieved in 80/110 birds within 5 minutes. Oral transmucosal pentobarbital results in rapid loss of consciousness and respiratory arrest and provides a reliable alternative euthanasia method compared to intravenous administration.

Identification and treatment of Strongyloides cebus in captive ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) in the midwestern United States.

Strongyloides spp. are parasitic enteric nematodes that infect a variety of hosts. While the Strongyloides spp. that affect humans, apes, and Old World primates have been previously identified, this genus has not been as fully investigated in prosimian species such as ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta). A high burden (4+) of larvated eggs and larvae were identified in the fecal samples of two captive ring-tailed lemurs during routine intake examination at a zoo in the midwestern United States. Conventional PCR targeting the 18S RNA gene of nematodes was used identified the parasite as Strongyloides cebus. The lemurs were initially treated with 0.2 mg/kg ivermectin orally twice, two weeks apart. Repeat fecal sampling showed persistent, but decreased eggs and larvae from 4+ to 3+. Ivermectin treatment was repeated with the addition of fenbendazole at 50 mg/kg orally once daily for 3 days. No parasite stages were seen on fecal samples one week and six weeks after the last ivermectin indicating successful clearance of the infection.

High-concentration buprenorphine exceeds target plasma concentrations for extended periods following subcutaneous administration in American flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber).

OBJECTIVE: To determine the pharmacokinetic parameters of a high-concentration buprenorphine formulation after a single SC dose in American flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber). ANIMALS: 6 healthy adult American flamingos (3 males and 3 females). METHODS: A single dose of high-concentration buprenorphine (1.8 mg/kg) was administered SC to all birds. Blood samples were collected at 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours after drug administration between October 14 and October 18, 2022. Plasma buprenorphine concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and a noncompartmental analysis was used to determine pharmacokinetic parameters. RESULTS: Mean ± SD peak plasma drug concentration (Cmax) was 195.1 ± 187.4 ng/mL, the mean time to peak plasma concentration (Tmax) was 0.32 ± 0.31 hours, the mean area under the concentration-vs-time curve from time 0 to the last measured concentration (AUC0-last) was 881.4 ± 205.4 ng/mL, and mean terminal half-life (t1/2) was 12.6 ± 3.86 hours. Mean plasma buprenorphine concentrations were >1 ng/mL for at least 48 hours after drug administration. No clinically significant adverse effects were observed. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: High-concentration buprenorphine dosed at 1.8 mg/kg SC in American flamingos rapidly exceeded plasma drug concentrations reported to have analgesic effects in other avian species and maintained these levels for extended periods. Sedative effects were similar to those reported for other species. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of high-concentration buprenorphine at this dose in American flamingos.