Diabetes & pancreatitis in cats

Forcada Y, German AJ, Noble PJ, et al. Determination of serum fPLI concentrations in cats with diabetes mellitus. J Feline Med Surg. Oct 2008;10(5):480-487.

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is one of the primary endocrine diseases of cats. Pancreatitis is suspected of being one of the main causes for poor control of DM in cats, yet no one knows how frequently this may occur. There are no prior reports indicating the prevalence of pancreatitis in live diabetic cats. In recent years, a test determining serum feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (fPLI) has been evaluated as a possible test for pancreatitis. Researchers in this study compared samples from 29 diabetic cats and 23 non-diabetic cats for measurement of fPLI concentrations to serum fructosamine levels and clinical signs. The study had three aims. The first was to determine if fPLI concentrations were higher in cats with DM. The second was to see if serum fPLI levels could be linked to diabetic control, and last, to determine if these cats had any specific clinical signs of pancreatitis.
Researchers found the median fPLI concentrations were significantly higher in the diabetic patients than the median concentrations in the non-diabetic cats. This would suggest that pancreatic inflammation is likely more prevalent in diabetic cats than non-diabetic cats. Unfortunately, a limitation of the study is that the finding of increased fPLI levels implies but does not confirm the presence of pancreatitis. Since this was a retrospective study, the investigators were unable to support a diagnosis of pancreatitis by utilization of pancreatic histopathology or abdominal ultrasonography. The median serum fructosamine values were also found to be significantly higher in the diabetic cats than the non-diabetic cats. However, there was no clear association between serum fructosamine concentrations and the clinical judgment of diabetic control by the referring veterinarian. This study indicates that pancreatitis could be a major complicating factor in a percentage of diabetic cats, even those cases that appear to be under good control based on serum fructosamine concentration. Further studies are indicated to determine how pancreatitis influences the control, progression, and management of DM and how DM and other major diseases affect fPLI concentrations.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Forman MA, Marks SL, De Cock HE, et al. Evaluation of serum feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity and helical computed tomography versus conventional testing for the diagnosis of feline pancreatitis. J Vet Intern Med. Nov-Dec 2004;18(6):807-815.
>> PubMed Abstract

Steiner JM, Wilson BG, Williams DA. Development and analytical validation of a radioimmunoassay for the measurement of feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity in serum. Can J Vet Res. Oct 2004;68(4):309-314.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Forcada Y, German AJ, Noble PJ, et al. Determination of serum fPLI concentrations in cats with diabetes mellitus. J Feline Med Surg. Oct 2008;10(5):480-487.

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is one of the primary endocrine diseases of cats. Pancreatitis is suspected of being one of the main causes for poor control of DM in cats, yet no one knows how frequently this may occur. There are no prior reports indicating the prevalence of pancreatitis in live diabetic cats. In recent years, a test determining serum feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (fPLI) has been evaluated as a possible test for pancreatitis. Researchers in this study compared samples from 29 diabetic cats and 23 non-diabetic cats for measurement of fPLI concentrations to serum fructosamine levels and clinical signs. The study had three aims. The first was to determine if fPLI concentrations were higher in cats with DM. The second was to see if serum fPLI levels could be linked to diabetic control, and last, to determine if these cats had any specific clinical signs of pancreatitis.
Researchers found the median fPLI concentrations were significantly higher in the diabetic patients than the median concentrations in the non-diabetic cats. This would suggest that pancreatic inflammation is likely more prevalent in diabetic cats than non-diabetic cats. Unfortunately, a limitation of the study is that the finding of increased fPLI levels implies but does not confirm the presence of pancreatitis. Since this was a retrospective study, the investigators were unable to support a diagnosis of pancreatitis by utilization of pancreatic histopathology or abdominal ultrasonography. The median serum fructosamine values were also found to be significantly higher in the diabetic cats than the non-diabetic cats. However, there was no clear association between serum fructosamine concentrations and the clinical judgment of diabetic control by the referring veterinarian. This study indicates that pancreatitis could be a major complicating factor in a percentage of diabetic cats, even those cases that appear to be under good control based on serum fructosamine concentration. Further studies are indicated to determine how pancreatitis influences the control, progression, and management of DM and how DM and other major diseases affect fPLI concentrations.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Forman MA, Marks SL, De Cock HE, et al. Evaluation of serum feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity and helical computed tomography versus conventional testing for the diagnosis of feline pancreatitis. J Vet Intern Med. Nov-Dec 2004;18(6):807-815.
>> PubMed Abstract

Steiner JM, Wilson BG, Williams DA. Development and analytical validation of a radioimmunoassay for the measurement of feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity in serum. Can J Vet Res. Oct 2004;68(4):309-314.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

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Cats and Permethrin Toxicity

Dymond NL, Swift IM. Permethrin toxicity in cats: a retrospective study of 20 cases. Aust Vet J. Jun 2008;86(6):219-223.

Researchers in Australia completed a retrospective study of 20 cases of permethrin toxicity in cats. The cats were presented to an emergency clinic in Brisbane, Australia from October 2004 to June 2005. Permethrin is present in many topical flea control products used for small animals. Cats are particularly susceptible to the toxic effects of permethrin, which occurs when cats are accidentally exposed to products made for use on dogs. The history of recent exposure plus typical clinical signs of permethrin poisoning including tremors, muscle fasciculations, and seizures were the primary means for diagnosis. Treatment included decontamination of the product and patient support with drug therapy to control muscle tremors and seizures. Researchers noted that rapid intervention lead to good outcomes of treatment in 19 of 20 cats. One kitten died when there was a 24-hour delay in treatment. All recovered cats were reported to have no complications when a 4-month follow-up was performed. Education of owners regarding the risks of permethrin use on cats plus clear, appropriate labeling of products to help decrease the number of future cases were the conclusions drawn by the study.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Sutton NM, Bates N, Campbell A. Clinical effects and outcome of feline permethrin spot-on poisonings reported to the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), London. J Feline Med Surg. Aug 2007;9(4):335-339.
>> PubMed Abstract

Linnett PJ. Permethrin toxicosis in cats. Aust Vet J. Jan-Feb 2008;86(1-2):32-35.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Dymond NL, Swift IM. Permethrin toxicity in cats: a retrospective study of 20 cases. Aust Vet J. Jun 2008;86(6):219-223.

Researchers in Australia completed a retrospective study of 20 cases of permethrin toxicity in cats. The cats were presented to an emergency clinic in Brisbane, Australia from October 2004 to June 2005. Permethrin is present in many topical flea control products used for small animals. Cats are particularly susceptible to the toxic effects of permethrin, which occurs when cats are accidentally exposed to products made for use on dogs. The history of recent exposure plus typical clinical signs of permethrin poisoning including tremors, muscle fasciculations, and seizures were the primary means for diagnosis. Treatment included decontamination of the product and patient support with drug therapy to control muscle tremors and seizures. Researchers noted that rapid intervention lead to good outcomes of treatment in 19 of 20 cats. One kitten died when there was a 24-hour delay in treatment. All recovered cats were reported to have no complications when a 4-month follow-up was performed. Education of owners regarding the risks of permethrin use on cats plus clear, appropriate labeling of products to help decrease the number of future cases were the conclusions drawn by the study.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Sutton NM, Bates N, Campbell A. Clinical effects and outcome of feline permethrin spot-on poisonings reported to the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), London. J Feline Med Surg. Aug 2007;9(4):335-339.
>> PubMed Abstract

Linnett PJ. Permethrin toxicosis in cats. Aust Vet J. Jan-Feb 2008;86(1-2):32-35.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Injection-Site Sarcomas

Shaw SC, Kent MS, Gordon IK, et al. Temporal changes in characteristics of injection-site sarcomas in cats: 392 cases (1990-2006). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 2009;234(3):376-380.

A proposed association between vaccinations and tumor formation in cats was first discussed in 1991. Studies since that time have supported a link between injections and the development of sarcomas. Fibrosarcomas are highly invasive and about 1/4 will metastasize. Radical surgery in combination with radiation therapy is required to control these tumors. In 1996, the Vaccine-Associated Feline Sarcoma Task Force (VAFSTF) was formed to identify methods to prevent and treat these tumors. One recommendation was to administer vaccinations to cats in standardized sites, avoiding the interscapular area. The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in anatomic location and histologic classification of injection-site sarcomas, as well as signalment of affected cats before and after publication of the VAFSTF recommendations. In this retrospective case series, medical records of 392 cats with a diagnosis of sarcoma at a potential injection site were examined. From before to after the publication of the VAFSTF recommendations, the proportions of injection site-sarcomas significantly decreased in the interscapular and thoracic regions. However, proportions of the tumors in other locations significantly increased. Despite the recommendations, a high proportion of tumors still developed in the interscapular region. The researchers concluded that veterinarians are complying with the recommendations to some extent, but should ensure vaccinations are administered as distally as possible on a limb to allow for complete surgical excision should a tumor develop.
>> JAVMA Abstract

Related articles:
Romanelli G, Marconato L, Olivero D, Massari F, Zini E. Analysis of prognostic factors associated with injection-site sarcomas in cats: 57 cases (2001-2007). J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2008 Apr 15;232(8):1193-9.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Shaw SC, Kent MS, Gordon IK, et al. Temporal changes in characteristics of injection-site sarcomas in cats: 392 cases (1990-2006). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 2009;234(3):376-380.

A proposed association between vaccinations and tumor formation in cats was first discussed in 1991. Studies since that time have supported a link between injections and the development of sarcomas. Fibrosarcomas are highly invasive and about 1/4 will metastasize. Radical surgery in combination with radiation therapy is required to control these tumors. In 1996, the Vaccine-Associated Feline Sarcoma Task Force (VAFSTF) was formed to identify methods to prevent and treat these tumors. One recommendation was to administer vaccinations to cats in standardized sites, avoiding the interscapular area. The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in anatomic location and histologic classification of injection-site sarcomas, as well as signalment of affected cats before and after publication of the VAFSTF recommendations. In this retrospective case series, medical records of 392 cats with a diagnosis of sarcoma at a potential injection site were examined. From before to after the publication of the VAFSTF recommendations, the proportions of injection site-sarcomas significantly decreased in the interscapular and thoracic regions. However, proportions of the tumors in other locations significantly increased. Despite the recommendations, a high proportion of tumors still developed in the interscapular region. The researchers concluded that veterinarians are complying with the recommendations to some extent, but should ensure vaccinations are administered as distally as possible on a limb to allow for complete surgical excision should a tumor develop.
>> JAVMA Abstract

Related articles:
Romanelli G, Marconato L, Olivero D, Massari F, Zini E. Analysis of prognostic factors associated with injection-site sarcomas in cats: 57 cases (2001-2007). J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2008 Apr 15;232(8):1193-9.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Dog and Cat Relationships

Feuerstein N, Terkel J. Interrelationships of dogs (Canis familiaris) and cats (Felis catus L.) living under the same roof Appl Anim Behav Sci. 2008;113(1-3):150-165.

In the process of domestication, both dogs and cats have undergone genetic changes to adapt to living with humans. However, concerns over the ability of the two species to communicate are based on their separate evolutionary development and their different social structures. In this study, the interrelationships of dogs and cats living together were studied by means of a questionnaire and by direct observation of dog-cat interactions. The study found that dogs and cats have the ability to establish amicable relationships, and the ability is not based on the animal's gender. Adoption of the cat prior to the dog appeared to be conducive to establishing an amicable relationship. It is also helpful if the first encounter takes place before the age of 6 months in cats and 1 year in dogs.
>> ScienceDirect Abstract

Related articles:
Marder A, Duxbury MM. Obtaining a pet: realistic expectations. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. Sep 2008;38(5):1145-1162, viii.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Feuerstein N, Terkel J. Interrelationships of dogs (Canis familiaris) and cats (Felis catus L.) living under the same roof Appl Anim Behav Sci. 2008;113(1-3):150-165.

In the process of domestication, both dogs and cats have undergone genetic changes to adapt to living with humans. However, concerns over the ability of the two species to communicate are based on their separate evolutionary development and their different social structures. In this study, the interrelationships of dogs and cats living together were studied by means of a questionnaire and by direct observation of dog-cat interactions. The study found that dogs and cats have the ability to establish amicable relationships, and the ability is not based on the animal's gender. Adoption of the cat prior to the dog appeared to be conducive to establishing an amicable relationship. It is also helpful if the first encounter takes place before the age of 6 months in cats and 1 year in dogs.
>> ScienceDirect Abstract

Related articles:
Marder A, Duxbury MM. Obtaining a pet: realistic expectations. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. Sep 2008;38(5):1145-1162, viii.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Pulmonary Edema in Cats

Benigni L, Morgan N, Lamb CR. Radiographic appearance of cardiogenic pulmonary oedema in 23 cats. Journal of Small Animal Practice. 2009;50(1):9-14.

Congestive heart failure commonly results in pulmonary edema. Thoracic radiographs are useful for the diagnosis of congestive heart failure because it enables assessment of the pulmonary veins and detection of pulmonary edema. It also helps distinguish pulmonary edema from other conditions causing similar clinical signs, such as bronchopneumonia. In dogs with heart failure, pulmonary edema typically appears as a symmetrical alveolar pattern that is most apparent in the caudodorsal lung field, although it can become generalized. The radiographic appearance of pulmonary edema is thought to be more variable in cats than in dogs. The purpose of this study was to describe in detail the radiographic appearance of pulmonary edema in cats with heart failure. Thoracic radiographs of 23 cats presenting with signs of heart failure were reviewed. Pulmonary edema in these cats was associated with a range of patterns and variable distribution. All cats had a reticular or granular interstitial pattern. This occurred in combination with an alveolar pattern (83%), with increased diameter of pulmonary vessels (71%), and with a bronchial pattern (61%). The distribution of pulmonary edema was diffuse/non-uniform in 61% of cats, diffuse/uniform in 17%, multi-focal in 17% and focal in 4%. The researchers conclude that feline cardiogenic pulmonary edema has a highly variable radiographic appearance that may complicate diagnosis.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Herndon WE, Rishniw M, Schrope D, Sammarco CD, Boddy KN, Sleeper MM. Assessment of plasma cardiac troponin I concentration as a means to differentiate cardiac and noncardiac causes of dyspnea in cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 2008;233(8):1261-1264.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Benigni L, Morgan N, Lamb CR. Radiographic appearance of cardiogenic pulmonary oedema in 23 cats. Journal of Small Animal Practice. 2009;50(1):9-14.

Congestive heart failure commonly results in pulmonary edema. Thoracic radiographs are useful for the diagnosis of congestive heart failure because it enables assessment of the pulmonary veins and detection of pulmonary edema. It also helps distinguish pulmonary edema from other conditions causing similar clinical signs, such as bronchopneumonia. In dogs with heart failure, pulmonary edema typically appears as a symmetrical alveolar pattern that is most apparent in the caudodorsal lung field, although it can become generalized. The radiographic appearance of pulmonary edema is thought to be more variable in cats than in dogs. The purpose of this study was to describe in detail the radiographic appearance of pulmonary edema in cats with heart failure. Thoracic radiographs of 23 cats presenting with signs of heart failure were reviewed. Pulmonary edema in these cats was associated with a range of patterns and variable distribution. All cats had a reticular or granular interstitial pattern. This occurred in combination with an alveolar pattern (83%), with increased diameter of pulmonary vessels (71%), and with a bronchial pattern (61%). The distribution of pulmonary edema was diffuse/non-uniform in 61% of cats, diffuse/uniform in 17%, multi-focal in 17% and focal in 4%. The researchers conclude that feline cardiogenic pulmonary edema has a highly variable radiographic appearance that may complicate diagnosis.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Herndon WE, Rishniw M, Schrope D, Sammarco CD, Boddy KN, Sleeper MM. Assessment of plasma cardiac troponin I concentration as a means to differentiate cardiac and noncardiac causes of dyspnea in cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 2008;233(8):1261-1264.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Convenia for Cat Bite Wounds

Six R, Cleaver DM, Lindeman CJ, et al. Effectiveness and safety of cefovecin sodium, an extended-spectrum injectable cephalosporin, in the treatment of cats with abscesses and infected wounds. J Am Vet Med Assoc. Jan 1 2009;234(1):81-87.

Abscesses and infected bite or scratch wounds are very common problems in feline medicine. The most common pathogen involved is Pasteurella multocida. Treatment of infected wounds is accomplished by drainage and debridement, and antibiotic therapy. Antibiotics typically recommended for first line treatment include penicillins, cephalosporins, and clindamycin. These drugs require once or twice daily dosing, and treatment must be continued for 7 to 14 days. Cefovecin (Convenia, Pfizer Animal Health) is a new extended-spectrum bactericidal cephalosporin. The manufacturer recommends a one-time subcutaneous injection at a dose of 8 mg/kg. Therapeutic concentrations of the drug against P. multocida are maintained for approximately 7 days. This multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, controlled clinical trial was designed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of cefovecin in the treatment of cats with abscesses and infected wounds. Cats were randomly allocated to one of two groups. One group received a single dose of cefovecin followed by placebo drops orally once daily for 14 days. The second group received one subcutaneous placebo injection followed by cefadroxil once daily for 14 days. The effectiveness of cefovecin was similar to that of cefadroxil. At day 28, 97% of cefovecin-treated cats and 91% of cefadroxil-treated cats were considered treatment successes. There were no serious adverse effects reports.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Stegemann MR, Sherington J, Passmore C. The efficacy and safety of cefovecin in the treatment of feline abscesses and infected wounds. J Small Anim Pract. Dec 2007;48(12):683-689.
>>PubMed Abstract

Stegemann MR, Sherington J, Coati N, Brown SA, Blanchflower S. Pharmacokinetics of cefovecin in cats. J Vet Pharmacol Ther. Dec 2006;29(6):513-524.
>>PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Six R, Cleaver DM, Lindeman CJ, et al. Effectiveness and safety of cefovecin sodium, an extended-spectrum injectable cephalosporin, in the treatment of cats with abscesses and infected wounds. J Am Vet Med Assoc. Jan 1 2009;234(1):81-87.

Abscesses and infected bite or scratch wounds are very common problems in feline medicine. The most common pathogen involved is Pasteurella multocida. Treatment of infected wounds is accomplished by drainage and debridement, and antibiotic therapy. Antibiotics typically recommended for first line treatment include penicillins, cephalosporins, and clindamycin. These drugs require once or twice daily dosing, and treatment must be continued for 7 to 14 days. Cefovecin (Convenia, Pfizer Animal Health) is a new extended-spectrum bactericidal cephalosporin. The manufacturer recommends a one-time subcutaneous injection at a dose of 8 mg/kg. Therapeutic concentrations of the drug against P. multocida are maintained for approximately 7 days. This multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, controlled clinical trial was designed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of cefovecin in the treatment of cats with abscesses and infected wounds. Cats were randomly allocated to one of two groups. One group received a single dose of cefovecin followed by placebo drops orally once daily for 14 days. The second group received one subcutaneous placebo injection followed by cefadroxil once daily for 14 days. The effectiveness of cefovecin was similar to that of cefadroxil. At day 28, 97% of cefovecin-treated cats and 91% of cefadroxil-treated cats were considered treatment successes. There were no serious adverse effects reports.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Stegemann MR, Sherington J, Passmore C. The efficacy and safety of cefovecin in the treatment of feline abscesses and infected wounds. J Small Anim Pract. Dec 2007;48(12):683-689.
>>PubMed Abstract

Stegemann MR, Sherington J, Coati N, Brown SA, Blanchflower S. Pharmacokinetics of cefovecin in cats. J Vet Pharmacol Ther. Dec 2006;29(6):513-524.
>>PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

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Cats and Arthritis

Robertson, S. A. (2008). "Osteoarthritis in cats: What we now know about recognition and treatment." Vet Med 103(11): 611-616.

Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is a common cause of chronic pain in middle-aged and older cats. It is now known to be much more common in cats than previously thought. Clinical signs include unwillingness to jump, stiff gait, decreased grooming, house soiling, irritability, and hiding. Unlike dogs, lameness is not necessarily a common clinical sign of osteoarthritis in cats. Elbows and hips are most commonly affected, and many cats have disease in more than one joint. Pathologic changes, many detectable on radiographs, include deterioration of articular cartilage, osteophyte formation, bone remodeling, soft tissue changes, and low-grade nonpurulent inflammation. Treatment includes weight reduction if applicable, and environmental changes such as making the litter box more accessible. Medical therapy may include nutraceuticals, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and analgesics. Non-pharmacological interventions include passive range of motion exercises and acupuncture.
>> Full text article

Related articles:
Gunew, M. N., V. H. Menrath, et al. (2008). "Long-term safety, efficacy and palatability of oral meloxicam at 0.01-0.03 mg/kg for treatment of osteoarthritic pain in cats." Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 10(3): 235-241.
>> PubMed Abstract

Lascelles, B. D., B. D. Hansen, et al. (2007). "Evaluation of client-specific outcome measures and activity monitoring to measure pain relief in cats with osteoarthritis." J Vet Intern Med 21(3): 410-6.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Robertson, S. A. (2008). "Osteoarthritis in cats: What we now know about recognition and treatment." Vet Med 103(11): 611-616.

Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is a common cause of chronic pain in middle-aged and older cats. It is now known to be much more common in cats than previously thought. Clinical signs include unwillingness to jump, stiff gait, decreased grooming, house soiling, irritability, and hiding. Unlike dogs, lameness is not necessarily a common clinical sign of osteoarthritis in cats. Elbows and hips are most commonly affected, and many cats have disease in more than one joint. Pathologic changes, many detectable on radiographs, include deterioration of articular cartilage, osteophyte formation, bone remodeling, soft tissue changes, and low-grade nonpurulent inflammation. Treatment includes weight reduction if applicable, and environmental changes such as making the litter box more accessible. Medical therapy may include nutraceuticals, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and analgesics. Non-pharmacological interventions include passive range of motion exercises and acupuncture.
>> Full text article

Related articles:
Gunew, M. N., V. H. Menrath, et al. (2008). "Long-term safety, efficacy and palatability of oral meloxicam at 0.01-0.03 mg/kg for treatment of osteoarthritic pain in cats." Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 10(3): 235-241.
>> PubMed Abstract

Lascelles, B. D., B. D. Hansen, et al. (2007). "Evaluation of client-specific outcome measures and activity monitoring to measure pain relief in cats with osteoarthritis." J Vet Intern Med 21(3): 410-6.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Read More