Cetirizine For Allergies in Cats

Papich, M. G., E. K. Schooley, et al. (2008). "Pharmacokinetics of cetirizine in healthy cats." Am J Vet Res 69(5): 670-4.

Cats may suffer from various manifestations of allergic disease affecting body systems such as the skin, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract. Glucocorticoids such as prednisone are effective for treating allergic disease in cats, but may be associated with undesirable adverse effects. Cetirizine (Zyrtec, Pfizer), a second-generation antihistamine, is effective in humans for treatment of allergic symptoms and appears to have less adverse effects than first-generation antihistamines. Although there is anecdotal information about the use of cetirizine in cats, no published pharmacokinetic studies exist and an appropriate oral dose has not been established. In this study, the pharmacokinetic characteristics of cetirizine after oral administration of a single dose was characterized in cats. Each of nine healthy cats was given a single oral dose of 5 mg cetirizine. Blood samples were collected at various time points up to 24 hours after administration and plasma concentrations of cetirizine were analyzed. Cats given this single oral dose of cetirizine had high plasma concentrations compared with those reported in humans, a long halflife, and lack of detectable adverse effects. The results support once daily dosing of cetirizine in cats. Further studies evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of this drug in cats with allergic disease need to be performed, as well as multipledose pharmacokinetic and safety studies. It appears that cetirizine may be a useful alternative to glucocorticoids in cats with allergic disease.
>> PubMed abstract

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Papich, M. G., E. K. Schooley, et al. (2008). "Pharmacokinetics of cetirizine in healthy cats." Am J Vet Res 69(5): 670-4.

Cats may suffer from various manifestations of allergic disease affecting body systems such as the skin, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract. Glucocorticoids such as prednisone are effective for treating allergic disease in cats, but may be associated with undesirable adverse effects. Cetirizine (Zyrtec, Pfizer), a second-generation antihistamine, is effective in humans for treatment of allergic symptoms and appears to have less adverse effects than first-generation antihistamines. Although there is anecdotal information about the use of cetirizine in cats, no published pharmacokinetic studies exist and an appropriate oral dose has not been established. In this study, the pharmacokinetic characteristics of cetirizine after oral administration of a single dose was characterized in cats. Each of nine healthy cats was given a single oral dose of 5 mg cetirizine. Blood samples were collected at various time points up to 24 hours after administration and plasma concentrations of cetirizine were analyzed. Cats given this single oral dose of cetirizine had high plasma concentrations compared with those reported in humans, a long halflife, and lack of detectable adverse effects. The results support once daily dosing of cetirizine in cats. Further studies evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of this drug in cats with allergic disease need to be performed, as well as multipledose pharmacokinetic and safety studies. It appears that cetirizine may be a useful alternative to glucocorticoids in cats with allergic disease.
>> PubMed abstract

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Feline Permethrin Spot-On Toxicity

Sutton, N. M., N. Bates, et al. (2007). "Clinical effects and outcome of feline permethrin spot-on poisonings reported to the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), London." J Feline Med Surg 9(4): 335-9.

Permethrin is a pyrethroid insecticide used in topically applied spot-on flea treatments for dogs. Cats are very sensitive to the toxic effects of permethrin. These products are readily available and are often less expensive than other flea control products. Cats may be affected when the product is applied directly to them, or through contact with a treated animal. Data from 286 cases of permethrin toxicity in cats from the Veterinary Poisons Information Service in the United Kingdom is reviewed. The majority of the cats (96.9%) experienced clinical signs of toxicosis. The most common clinical signs were twitching, tremors, muscle fasciculations, and seizures. The duration of clinical signs was long, with seizures lasting an average of 38 hours and tremors lasting an average of 32 hours. Some cats took up to 1 week to recover. Death occurred in 10.5% of cases, some of which were euthanized due to reasons such as respiratory failure, or uncontrollable seizures. It is very important for cat owners to avoid using spot-on flea products containing permethrin on cats, and cats should not have contact with other animals treated with these products.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Linnett, P. J. (2008). "Permethrin toxicosis in cats." Aust Vet J 86(1-2): 32-5.
>> PubMed abstract

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Sutton, N. M., N. Bates, et al. (2007). "Clinical effects and outcome of feline permethrin spot-on poisonings reported to the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), London." J Feline Med Surg 9(4): 335-9.

Permethrin is a pyrethroid insecticide used in topically applied spot-on flea treatments for dogs. Cats are very sensitive to the toxic effects of permethrin. These products are readily available and are often less expensive than other flea control products. Cats may be affected when the product is applied directly to them, or through contact with a treated animal. Data from 286 cases of permethrin toxicity in cats from the Veterinary Poisons Information Service in the United Kingdom is reviewed. The majority of the cats (96.9%) experienced clinical signs of toxicosis. The most common clinical signs were twitching, tremors, muscle fasciculations, and seizures. The duration of clinical signs was long, with seizures lasting an average of 38 hours and tremors lasting an average of 32 hours. Some cats took up to 1 week to recover. Death occurred in 10.5% of cases, some of which were euthanized due to reasons such as respiratory failure, or uncontrollable seizures. It is very important for cat owners to avoid using spot-on flea products containing permethrin on cats, and cats should not have contact with other animals treated with these products.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Linnett, P. J. (2008). "Permethrin toxicosis in cats." Aust Vet J 86(1-2): 32-5.
>> PubMed abstract

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Cognitive Dysfunction in Senior Cats

Crowell-Davis, S. L. (2008). "Cognitive dysfunction in senior pets." Comp Contin Edu Pract Vet 30(2): 106-110.

In recent years, improvements in veterinary care for cats has led to a steadily growing population of senior cats. This compels us to improve our understanding of and treatments for behavioral problems associated with this age group. Cognitive dysfunction (CD) can cause changes in behavior secondary to declining mental function. There is no specific test for CD; rather veterinarians must evaluate owner observations of changes in behavior and rule out other possible causes for these changes. Once CD has been diagnosed, treatment is multi-factorial. While several medications have been approved by the FDA to treat Alzheimer's disease in humans, only one approved drug exists for CD in animals and it is approved only for dogs (Anipryl; Pfizer). Other treatments include dietary therapy, and environmental and behavior modification. The goal is to improve the quality and prolong the duration of life in senior cats with CD.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Landsberg, G. (2006). "Therapeutic options for cognitive decline in senior pets." J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 42(6): 407-13.
>> PubMed abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Crowell-Davis, S. L. (2008). "Cognitive dysfunction in senior pets." Comp Contin Edu Pract Vet 30(2): 106-110.

In recent years, improvements in veterinary care for cats has led to a steadily growing population of senior cats. This compels us to improve our understanding of and treatments for behavioral problems associated with this age group. Cognitive dysfunction (CD) can cause changes in behavior secondary to declining mental function. There is no specific test for CD; rather veterinarians must evaluate owner observations of changes in behavior and rule out other possible causes for these changes. Once CD has been diagnosed, treatment is multi-factorial. While several medications have been approved by the FDA to treat Alzheimer's disease in humans, only one approved drug exists for CD in animals and it is approved only for dogs (Anipryl; Pfizer). Other treatments include dietary therapy, and environmental and behavior modification. The goal is to improve the quality and prolong the duration of life in senior cats with CD.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Landsberg, G. (2006). "Therapeutic options for cognitive decline in senior pets." J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 42(6): 407-13.
>> PubMed abstract

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Treatment for Mast Cell Tumors in Cats

Rassnick, K. M., L. E. Williams, et al. (2008). "Lomustine for treatment of mast cell tumors in cats: 38 cases (1999-2005)." J Am Vet Med Assoc 232(8): 1200-5.


Mast cell tumours (MCTs) are commonly diagnosed in cats, particularly in cutaneous locations. These tumours have a range of biological behavior from benign to malignant. Most cutaneous MCTs are readily treated with surgery or local radiation. Alternative treatments are needed for those cats where surgery or radiation is not an option, or where these modalities have failed to prevent recurrence. In this retrospective case series, the clinical efficacy and toxicity of lomustine was evaluated in 38 cats with confirmed mast cell tumors. Lomustine was administered at a dose at or equal to 50 mg/m(2). Of the 38 cats, most (68%) had cutaneous MCTs but tumors were also diagnosed in other locations, such as mesenteric lymph nodes. The overall response rate was 50%, with 7 cats having a complete response. The median duration of response was 168 days. The most commonly noted toxicoses were neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. The researchers conclude that lomustine should be considered for cats with MCTs where local treatment is not an option.
>> PubMed abstract


Related articles:
Turrel, J., J. Farrelly, et al. (2006). "Evaluation of strontium 90 irradiation in treatment of cutaneous mast cell tumors in cats: 35 cases (1992-2002)." J Amer Vet Med Assoc 228(6): 898-901.
>> PubMed abstract


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Rassnick, K. M., L. E. Williams, et al. (2008). "Lomustine for treatment of mast cell tumors in cats: 38 cases (1999-2005)." J Am Vet Med Assoc 232(8): 1200-5.


Mast cell tumours (MCTs) are commonly diagnosed in cats, particularly in cutaneous locations. These tumours have a range of biological behavior from benign to malignant. Most cutaneous MCTs are readily treated with surgery or local radiation. Alternative treatments are needed for those cats where surgery or radiation is not an option, or where these modalities have failed to prevent recurrence. In this retrospective case series, the clinical efficacy and toxicity of lomustine was evaluated in 38 cats with confirmed mast cell tumors. Lomustine was administered at a dose at or equal to 50 mg/m(2). Of the 38 cats, most (68%) had cutaneous MCTs but tumors were also diagnosed in other locations, such as mesenteric lymph nodes. The overall response rate was 50%, with 7 cats having a complete response. The median duration of response was 168 days. The most commonly noted toxicoses were neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. The researchers conclude that lomustine should be considered for cats with MCTs where local treatment is not an option.
>> PubMed abstract


Related articles:
Turrel, J., J. Farrelly, et al. (2006). "Evaluation of strontium 90 irradiation in treatment of cutaneous mast cell tumors in cats: 35 cases (1992-2002)." J Amer Vet Med Assoc 228(6): 898-901.
>> PubMed abstract


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Retroviruses and Cat Bite Wounds

Goldkamp, C. E., J. K. Levy, et al. (2008). "Seroprevalences of feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus in cats with abscesses or bite wounds and rate of veterinarian compliance with current guidelines for retrovirus testing." J Am Vet Med Assoc 232(8): 1152-8.

In this prospective study, data was collected on 967 cats being treated for bite wounds and abscesses from 134 veterinary practices in 30 states. Cats were tested for feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) at the time of presentation. Veterinarians were asked to retest cats 60 days later to determine if seronegative cats became positive after the high-risk event. The FeLV-FIV status of 96 cats was known prior to the bite wound event. At the time of treatment, 19.3% of cats were seropositive for FeLV and/or FIV. Risk factors associated with seropositive status included age (adult), gender (male), history of wounds, and outdoor access. Retesting of seronegative cats was recommended to owners of 478 cats at 54.5% of the practices. However, only 13.4% of cats were restested. Of these cats, 5.2% that were initially seronegative for FIV seroconverted. This study determined that a high proportion of cats with abscesses or bite wounds were seropositive for retrovirus infection. Unfortunately, compliance with recommendations to test cats at the time of the event or after treatment was low. Clearly, the FeLV-FIV status of cats with fight wounds should be determined at the time of treatment, and seronegative cats should be retested in 60 days.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Levy, J. K., H. M. Scott, et al. (2006). "Seroprevalence of feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus infection among cats in North America and risk factors for seropositivity." J Am Vet Med Assoc 228(3): 371-6.
>> PubMed abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Goldkamp, C. E., J. K. Levy, et al. (2008). "Seroprevalences of feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus in cats with abscesses or bite wounds and rate of veterinarian compliance with current guidelines for retrovirus testing." J Am Vet Med Assoc 232(8): 1152-8.

In this prospective study, data was collected on 967 cats being treated for bite wounds and abscesses from 134 veterinary practices in 30 states. Cats were tested for feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) at the time of presentation. Veterinarians were asked to retest cats 60 days later to determine if seronegative cats became positive after the high-risk event. The FeLV-FIV status of 96 cats was known prior to the bite wound event. At the time of treatment, 19.3% of cats were seropositive for FeLV and/or FIV. Risk factors associated with seropositive status included age (adult), gender (male), history of wounds, and outdoor access. Retesting of seronegative cats was recommended to owners of 478 cats at 54.5% of the practices. However, only 13.4% of cats were restested. Of these cats, 5.2% that were initially seronegative for FIV seroconverted. This study determined that a high proportion of cats with abscesses or bite wounds were seropositive for retrovirus infection. Unfortunately, compliance with recommendations to test cats at the time of the event or after treatment was low. Clearly, the FeLV-FIV status of cats with fight wounds should be determined at the time of treatment, and seronegative cats should be retested in 60 days.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Levy, J. K., H. M. Scott, et al. (2006). "Seroprevalence of feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus infection among cats in North America and risk factors for seropositivity." J Am Vet Med Assoc 228(3): 371-6.
>> PubMed abstract

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Cat Scratch Disease: A Review

Breitschwerdt, E. B. (2008). "Feline bartonellosis and cat scratch disease." Vet Immunol Immunopathol 123(1-2): 167-71.

Cat scratch disease (bartonellosis) is caused by various species of Bartonella, intracellular bacteria that favour red blood cells. Cats can be infected with five Bartonella species, including B. henselae and B. clarridgeae. Humans and many domestic animals, such as cattle and dogs, can also serve as chronically infected reservoir hosts for Bartonella. Many arthropod vectors, such as biting flies, fleas and ticks have been implicated in transmission of Bartonella to animals and humans. Bartonella infection can cause various problems in humans, including endocarditis, granulomatous inflammation of lymph nodes, and central nervous system dysfunction. Bartonellosis can be diagnosed in cats with serology, PCR, and culture. However, the issue is clouded by the high rate of sub-clinical infections in cats, making it very difficult to confirm bartonellosis as the cause of illness in cats. Fleas are involved in transmission from cat to cat, so the use of flea control products is critically important to decrease the risk of transmission of Bartonella among cats and to humans.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Chomel, B. B., H. J. Boulouis, et al. (2006). "Bartonella spp. in pets and effect on human health." Emerg Infect Dis 12(3): 389-94.
>> Free full text article

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Breitschwerdt, E. B. (2008). "Feline bartonellosis and cat scratch disease." Vet Immunol Immunopathol 123(1-2): 167-71.

Cat scratch disease (bartonellosis) is caused by various species of Bartonella, intracellular bacteria that favour red blood cells. Cats can be infected with five Bartonella species, including B. henselae and B. clarridgeae. Humans and many domestic animals, such as cattle and dogs, can also serve as chronically infected reservoir hosts for Bartonella. Many arthropod vectors, such as biting flies, fleas and ticks have been implicated in transmission of Bartonella to animals and humans. Bartonella infection can cause various problems in humans, including endocarditis, granulomatous inflammation of lymph nodes, and central nervous system dysfunction. Bartonellosis can be diagnosed in cats with serology, PCR, and culture. However, the issue is clouded by the high rate of sub-clinical infections in cats, making it very difficult to confirm bartonellosis as the cause of illness in cats. Fleas are involved in transmission from cat to cat, so the use of flea control products is critically important to decrease the risk of transmission of Bartonella among cats and to humans.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Chomel, B. B., H. J. Boulouis, et al. (2006). "Bartonella spp. in pets and effect on human health." Emerg Infect Dis 12(3): 389-94.
>> Free full text article

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Treatment of Ringworm in Shelter Cats

Newbury, S., K. Moriello, et al. (2007). "Use of lime sulphur and itraconazole to treat shelter cats naturally infected with Microsporum canis in an annex facility: an open field trial." Vet Dermatol 18(5): 324-31.

Dermatophytosis is the most common contagious skin disease of cats. It is often a concern in shelter situations since it is zoonotic and highly contagious. It is important to find an effective and rapid treatment protocol for cats with ringworm in shelters to expedite cure and adoption. This open clinical trial in a shelter enrolled 58 cats with confirmed Microsporum canis infection and 32 uninfected bonded pairs. The cats were treated with 21 days of oral itraconazole at 10 mg/kg and twice weekly lime sulphur rinses until cured. No hair coat clipping was performed. Fungal cultures were performed once weekly on all cats. Cats were considered cured with two consecutive negative cultures. No cats developed oral ulcerations as a result of grooming after lime sulphur treatment. No uninfected cats living in contact with infected cats developed dermatophytosis. The mean number of days of treatment required for cure was 18.4 (range 10-49 days). In this shelter, a combination of oral itraconazole and topical lime sulphur treatment was effective and safe.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Moriello, K. A. and M. Verbrugge (2007). "Use of isolated infected spores to determine the sporocidal efficacy of two commercial antifungal rinses against Microsporum canis." Vet Dermatol 18(1): 55-8.
>> PubMed abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Newbury, S., K. Moriello, et al. (2007). "Use of lime sulphur and itraconazole to treat shelter cats naturally infected with Microsporum canis in an annex facility: an open field trial." Vet Dermatol 18(5): 324-31.

Dermatophytosis is the most common contagious skin disease of cats. It is often a concern in shelter situations since it is zoonotic and highly contagious. It is important to find an effective and rapid treatment protocol for cats with ringworm in shelters to expedite cure and adoption. This open clinical trial in a shelter enrolled 58 cats with confirmed Microsporum canis infection and 32 uninfected bonded pairs. The cats were treated with 21 days of oral itraconazole at 10 mg/kg and twice weekly lime sulphur rinses until cured. No hair coat clipping was performed. Fungal cultures were performed once weekly on all cats. Cats were considered cured with two consecutive negative cultures. No cats developed oral ulcerations as a result of grooming after lime sulphur treatment. No uninfected cats living in contact with infected cats developed dermatophytosis. The mean number of days of treatment required for cure was 18.4 (range 10-49 days). In this shelter, a combination of oral itraconazole and topical lime sulphur treatment was effective and safe.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Moriello, K. A. and M. Verbrugge (2007). "Use of isolated infected spores to determine the sporocidal efficacy of two commercial antifungal rinses against Microsporum canis." Vet Dermatol 18(1): 55-8.
>> PubMed abstract

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