Vaccination of Kittens at the Time of Surgery

Reese, M. J., E. V. Patterson, et al. (2008). "Effects of anesthesia and surgery on serologic responses to vaccination in kittens." Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 233(1): 116-121.

There are many potential situations where it is desirable to vaccinate kittens at the time of spay or neuter surgery, such as in shelter situations where compliance with post-adoption recommendations is poor. Shelters commonly spay or neuter kittens at or near the time of vaccination. However, the effects of anesthesia and surgery on the immune response of kittens to vaccination is unknown. In this prospective controlled trial, 32 specific-pathogen free kittens were assigned to 1 of 4 groups: neutering at 7, 8, 9 weeks of age, or no neutering. All kittens received a modified live virus vaccine against feline herpesvirus (FHV), feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) at 8, 11, and 14 weeks of age. Rabies vaccine was administered at 14 weeks of age. Serum antibody titers against FHV, FCV, FPV and rabies were determined at various time points. Serologic responses of kittens spayed or neutered at the time of vaccination were not different from the other groups. Importantly, many kittens that were last vaccinated at 14 weeks of age had inadequate antibody titers at 17 weeks. The researchers conclude that kittens may be vaccinated in the perioperative period when necessary, and the last vaccination should be given no earlier than 16 weeks of age.
>> JAVMA Abstract

Related articles:
Poulet, H. (2007). "Alternative early life vaccination programs for companion animals." J Comp Pathol 137 Suppl 1: S67-71.
>> PubMed Abstract

Richards, J. R., T. H. Elston, et al. (2006). "The 2006 American Association of Feline Practitioners Feline Vaccine Advisory Panel report." J Am Vet Med Assoc 229(9): 1405-41.
>> Free full text article

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Reese, M. J., E. V. Patterson, et al. (2008). "Effects of anesthesia and surgery on serologic responses to vaccination in kittens." Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 233(1): 116-121.

There are many potential situations where it is desirable to vaccinate kittens at the time of spay or neuter surgery, such as in shelter situations where compliance with post-adoption recommendations is poor. Shelters commonly spay or neuter kittens at or near the time of vaccination. However, the effects of anesthesia and surgery on the immune response of kittens to vaccination is unknown. In this prospective controlled trial, 32 specific-pathogen free kittens were assigned to 1 of 4 groups: neutering at 7, 8, 9 weeks of age, or no neutering. All kittens received a modified live virus vaccine against feline herpesvirus (FHV), feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) at 8, 11, and 14 weeks of age. Rabies vaccine was administered at 14 weeks of age. Serum antibody titers against FHV, FCV, FPV and rabies were determined at various time points. Serologic responses of kittens spayed or neutered at the time of vaccination were not different from the other groups. Importantly, many kittens that were last vaccinated at 14 weeks of age had inadequate antibody titers at 17 weeks. The researchers conclude that kittens may be vaccinated in the perioperative period when necessary, and the last vaccination should be given no earlier than 16 weeks of age.
>> JAVMA Abstract

Related articles:
Poulet, H. (2007). "Alternative early life vaccination programs for companion animals." J Comp Pathol 137 Suppl 1: S67-71.
>> PubMed Abstract

Richards, J. R., T. H. Elston, et al. (2006). "The 2006 American Association of Feline Practitioners Feline Vaccine Advisory Panel report." J Am Vet Med Assoc 229(9): 1405-41.
>> Free full text article

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Read More

Management of Feline Dystocia

Pretzer, S. D. (2008). "Medical management of canine and feline dystocia." Theriogenology 70(3): 332-336.

Dystocia is derived from the Greek "dys" and "tokos", meaning a difficult, painful or abnormal parturition. It is not always easy to differentiate normal labor and delivery from dystocia. There are several potential causes for dystocia in the queen, only some of which are amenable to medical management. Educated and careful decision making is aided by a thorough history and physical examination, as well as certain diagnostic tests. This review article describes the decision making process for instituting medical management for dystocia in the queen, as well as the available therapeutic options.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Traas, A. M. (2008). "Surgical management of canine and feline dystocia." Theriogenology 70(3): 337-342.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Pretzer, S. D. (2008). "Medical management of canine and feline dystocia." Theriogenology 70(3): 332-336.

Dystocia is derived from the Greek "dys" and "tokos", meaning a difficult, painful or abnormal parturition. It is not always easy to differentiate normal labor and delivery from dystocia. There are several potential causes for dystocia in the queen, only some of which are amenable to medical management. Educated and careful decision making is aided by a thorough history and physical examination, as well as certain diagnostic tests. This review article describes the decision making process for instituting medical management for dystocia in the queen, as well as the available therapeutic options.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Traas, A. M. (2008). "Surgical management of canine and feline dystocia." Theriogenology 70(3): 337-342.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Read More

Care of Neonatal Kittens

Lawler, D. F. (2008). "Neonatal and pediatric care of the puppy and kitten." Theriogenology 70(3): 384-392.


The few weeks from birth to weaning is an intensive period of adjustment to the extrauterine environment and preparation for the stresses of post-weaning development. The first 4 weeks of life are a high-risk time for abnormal developmental problems, environmental stressors, and infectious diseases. This review article covers the most common problems veterinarians may face in kittens from birth to weaning, such as low birth weight, hypoxia, failure of passive transfer, hypoglycemia, dehydration, and nutrition.
>> PubMed Abstract


Related articles:
Sparkes, A. H., K. Rogers, et al. (2006). "A questionnaire-based study of gestation, parturition and neonatal mortality in pedigree breeding cats in the UK." J Feline Med Surg 8(3): 145-57.
>> PubMed Abstract


More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Lawler, D. F. (2008). "Neonatal and pediatric care of the puppy and kitten." Theriogenology 70(3): 384-392.


The few weeks from birth to weaning is an intensive period of adjustment to the extrauterine environment and preparation for the stresses of post-weaning development. The first 4 weeks of life are a high-risk time for abnormal developmental problems, environmental stressors, and infectious diseases. This review article covers the most common problems veterinarians may face in kittens from birth to weaning, such as low birth weight, hypoxia, failure of passive transfer, hypoglycemia, dehydration, and nutrition.
>> PubMed Abstract


Related articles:
Sparkes, A. H., K. Rogers, et al. (2006). "A questionnaire-based study of gestation, parturition and neonatal mortality in pedigree breeding cats in the UK." J Feline Med Surg 8(3): 145-57.
>> PubMed Abstract


More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Read More

Effect of Energy Restriction on Feline Weight Loss

Villaverde, C., J. J. Ramsey, et al. (2008). "Energy restriction results in a mass-adjusted decrease in energy expenditure in cats that is maintained after weight regain." J Nutr 138(5): 856-60.

Treatment of obesity in cats can be frustrating, even if appropriate energy restriction (ER) is employed. The purpose of this study was to determine whether ER causes a long-term decrease in mass-adjusted energy expenditure (EE). Such a decrease in EE would impair weight loss and even promote regaining lost weight. EE and body composition were measured in 10 obese neutered adult cats (average body weight 6.1 kg, body condition score 7.6/9.0, fat mass 38%) at 3 time points: at baseline, during weight loss (40% ER), and after regaining weight. After weight loss, the average body weight was 5.0 kg, body condition score was 5.5/9.0, and fat mass was 31%. After a period of regaining weight, the average body weight was 6.2 kg, body condition score was 7.7/9.0, and fat mass was 42%. The total EE was significantly lower than baseline during weight loss, and remained lower than baseline even after weight regain. The results support the suggestion that ER results in a sustained mass-adjusted decrease in EE in cats.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Weinsier, R. L., T. R. Nagy, et al. (2000). "Do adaptive changes in metabolic rate favor weight regain in weight-reduced individuals? An examination of the set-point theory." Am J Clin Nutr 72(5): 1088-94.
>> Free full text article

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Villaverde, C., J. J. Ramsey, et al. (2008). "Energy restriction results in a mass-adjusted decrease in energy expenditure in cats that is maintained after weight regain." J Nutr 138(5): 856-60.

Treatment of obesity in cats can be frustrating, even if appropriate energy restriction (ER) is employed. The purpose of this study was to determine whether ER causes a long-term decrease in mass-adjusted energy expenditure (EE). Such a decrease in EE would impair weight loss and even promote regaining lost weight. EE and body composition were measured in 10 obese neutered adult cats (average body weight 6.1 kg, body condition score 7.6/9.0, fat mass 38%) at 3 time points: at baseline, during weight loss (40% ER), and after regaining weight. After weight loss, the average body weight was 5.0 kg, body condition score was 5.5/9.0, and fat mass was 31%. After a period of regaining weight, the average body weight was 6.2 kg, body condition score was 7.7/9.0, and fat mass was 42%. The total EE was significantly lower than baseline during weight loss, and remained lower than baseline even after weight regain. The results support the suggestion that ER results in a sustained mass-adjusted decrease in EE in cats.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Weinsier, R. L., T. R. Nagy, et al. (2000). "Do adaptive changes in metabolic rate favor weight regain in weight-reduced individuals? An examination of the set-point theory." Am J Clin Nutr 72(5): 1088-94.
>> Free full text article

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Read More

Feline Patellar Luxation

Guillaumot, P., S. Scotti, et al. (2008). "Two cases of surgically treated feline patellar fractures." Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 21(2): 156-8.


Diseases of the patella, such as luxation and fractures, are reported less commonly in the cat than in the dog. This articles details the reports of two cases of patellar fracture: one in a 6-month old cat and one in a 2.5-year old cat. Two different methods of repair are detailed, along with information on etiology and diagnosis.
>> PubMed Abstract


Related articles:
McLaughlin, R. M. (2002). "Surgical diseases of the feline stifle joint." Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 32(4): 963-82.
>> PubMed Abstract


More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Guillaumot, P., S. Scotti, et al. (2008). "Two cases of surgically treated feline patellar fractures." Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 21(2): 156-8.


Diseases of the patella, such as luxation and fractures, are reported less commonly in the cat than in the dog. This articles details the reports of two cases of patellar fracture: one in a 6-month old cat and one in a 2.5-year old cat. Two different methods of repair are detailed, along with information on etiology and diagnosis.
>> PubMed Abstract


Related articles:
McLaughlin, R. M. (2002). "Surgical diseases of the feline stifle joint." Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 32(4): 963-82.
>> PubMed Abstract


More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Read More

Heartworm in Cats: Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention

Hoch, H. and K. Strickland (2008). "Canine and feline dirofilariasis: prophylaxis, treatment, and complications of treatment." Comp Contin Edu Vet 30(3): 146-151.

While several agents have been available for treatment of heartworm infection in dogs, no safe and effective adulticides exist for treatment of heartworm in the cat. Cats infected with heartworm may benefit from corticosteroid therapy to reduce clinical signs of pulmonary disease. Fortunately, four products are available for prevention of heartworm infection in cats (ivermectin, selamectin, moxidectin, milbemycin). Two products are given orally, and two are administered topically. Even cats diagnosed with heartworm infection can safely be given preventive treatment.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Bowman, D. D., C. J. Torre, et al. (2007). "Survey of 11 western states for heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) infection, heartworm diagnostic and prevention protocols, and fecal examination protocols for gastrointestinal parasites." Vet Ther 8(4): 293-304.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Hoch, H. and K. Strickland (2008). "Canine and feline dirofilariasis: prophylaxis, treatment, and complications of treatment." Comp Contin Edu Vet 30(3): 146-151.

While several agents have been available for treatment of heartworm infection in dogs, no safe and effective adulticides exist for treatment of heartworm in the cat. Cats infected with heartworm may benefit from corticosteroid therapy to reduce clinical signs of pulmonary disease. Fortunately, four products are available for prevention of heartworm infection in cats (ivermectin, selamectin, moxidectin, milbemycin). Two products are given orally, and two are administered topically. Even cats diagnosed with heartworm infection can safely be given preventive treatment.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Bowman, D. D., C. J. Torre, et al. (2007). "Survey of 11 western states for heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) infection, heartworm diagnostic and prevention protocols, and fecal examination protocols for gastrointestinal parasites." Vet Ther 8(4): 293-304.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Read More

Feline Heartworm: Life Cycle, Pathophysiology, Diagnosis

Hoch, H. and K. Strickland (2008). "Canine and feline dirofilariasis: life cycle, pathophysiology, and diagnosis." Comp Contin Edu Vet 30(3): 133-141.

The heartworm, Dirofilaria immitis, infects many animal species, including dogs and cats. While cats are resistant to heartworm infection, they may suffer infection rates 5-20% of the local canine rate. The American Heartworm Society released new guidelines on feline heartworm in 2007. It is important to understand the pathophysiology of heartworm disease in cats, and to educate pet owners that cats are at risk, even if they live 100% indoors.
>> PubMed Abstract

American Heartworm Society

KNOW Heartworms Campaign

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Hoch, H. and K. Strickland (2008). "Canine and feline dirofilariasis: life cycle, pathophysiology, and diagnosis." Comp Contin Edu Vet 30(3): 133-141.

The heartworm, Dirofilaria immitis, infects many animal species, including dogs and cats. While cats are resistant to heartworm infection, they may suffer infection rates 5-20% of the local canine rate. The American Heartworm Society released new guidelines on feline heartworm in 2007. It is important to understand the pathophysiology of heartworm disease in cats, and to educate pet owners that cats are at risk, even if they live 100% indoors.
>> PubMed Abstract

American Heartworm Society

KNOW Heartworms Campaign

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Read More