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Membranous structures within the right atrium (RA), such as the Chiari network, eustachian valve, Thebesian valve, and cor triatriatum dexter (CTD), can present with overlapping imaging features and complicated diagnoses. A 17-year-old male Maltese presented with a cardiac murmur, cough, anorexia, and exercise intolerance. Echocardiography revealed a mobile membrane in the RA, dividing it into two chambers. Computed tomography (CT) confirmed this finding, demonstrating differential attenuation of contrast between the chambers. The vascular connections and anatomical relationships of the structure differed from those of previously reported CTD types. Although other sinus venosus valve remnants were considered, the findings supported a provisional diagnosis of atypical CTD. This case highlights the utility of multimodal imaging for the characterisation of right atrial membranous structures. In human medicine, a detailed anatomical comparison of sinus venosus valve remnants aids in the differential diagnosis. Applying a similar approach in veterinary medicine, especially in geriatric patients, may improve diagnostic accuracy. Comprehensive imaging evaluations, including echocardiography and CT, are recommended to assess RA membranes that may be misinterpreted as variants of the CTD or other embryological remnants.

Neoplasms account for approximately half of the deaths of dogs over ten years of age. This finding, associated with the fact that canine cancer patients will often suffer from the consequences of the systemic spread of the tumour and paraneoplastic syndromes, shows the importance of understanding palliative care by veterinarians and owners. In view of this, this review aims to address palliative care that can be used in veterinary medicine to promote the patient’s well-being and quality of life.

Drone brood homogenate (DBH), a nutrient-rich bee product, has received limited scientific attention despite its potential immunomodulatory and gut-protective properties. This study evaluated the effects of a dietary DBH supplementation on the intestinal barrier–related gene expression, phagocytic activity, and lymphocyte subpopulations in pigs. Eighteen weaned pigs were assigned to three groups (control, DBH100, DBH200) and fed DBH at 0, 100, or 200 mg/kg feed for 18 days. The gene expression of tight junction markers (occludin, claudin-1) and mucosal integrity–associated proteins (lumican, OLFM4) was assessed in the ileum by qRT-PCR. Phagocyte function and peripheral blood lymphocyte subpopulations were analysed by flow cytometry. DBH200 significantly upregulated the occludin, claudin-1, lumican, and OLFM4 expression, indicating enhanced intestinal barrier support. The phagocytes from both DBH-treated groups exhibited an increased engulfing capacity and an elevated oxidative burst index, though the percentage of active phagocytes was only weakly affected. The DBH supplementation did not alter the total T (CD3⁺) or B (CD21⁺) cells; however, both DBH groups showed a significantly increased CD4⁺ : CD8⁺ lymphocyte ratio, which is consistent with immune stimulation. These findings suggest that DBH may beneficially modulate the gut barrier integrity and selected components of innate and adaptive cellular immunity in pigs.

Retinal degeneration (RD) is often associated with deficiencies or the inaccurate production of photoreceptor-specific proteins, which are encoded by various genes and characterised by the apoptotic and ongoing death of photoreceptor cells. This study involved administering a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) dose of 50 mg/kg of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) to rats to induce RD. Some of these rats also received intraperitoneal minocycline at varying doses to prevent RD. Euthanasia was conducted at five intervals: at 12, 24, 48, and 72 h, and on the 7^th day; and eye samples were taken. These samples were analysed using histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and electron microscopy. Significant RD was observed in the MNU-treated groups, with photoreceptor cell apoptosis demonstrated by the TUNEL method. Compared with those in the control group, there was a progressive thinning of the photoreceptor layer and outer nuclear layer, along with increased levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and reduced levels of rhodopsin and red/green opsin starting from the 12^th hour in the experimental groups. Electron microscopy revealed that amacrine and bipolar cells, in addition to photoreceptors, were also affected. The minocycline treatment did not show significant differences in retinal layer thickness or the staining levels of PCNA, GFAP, and opsins in the MNU-induced RD model.

A 12-year-old castrated male domestic shorthair cat was referred for respiratory distress. Physical examination revealed a systolic heart murmur at the left apex and crackles in all lung fields. Thoracic radiography showed Valentine-shaped cardiomegaly, pulmonary oedema, and pleural effusion. Echocardiography revealed focal thickening of the interventricular septum [11.01 mm; reference interval (RI) = 3.00–5.20 mm] and left ventricular posterior wall (7.41 mm; RI = 3.00–5.10 mm) during diastole. In the apex region, the free wall was focally thinned to approximately 1.6 mm with hypokinetic myocardial movement, indicating thin and hypokinetic myocardial segments. Additionally, decreased left atrial fractional shortening (12.5%; RI = 23.9–34.9%) and an increased left atrial-to-aortic ratio (2.87; RI = 0.88–1.43) were observed, along with spontaneous echocardiographic contrast in the left atrium, indicating increased thrombotic risk. The electrocardiogram showed a left axis deviation with small R waves and deep S waves in lead II, which is consistent with a left anterior fascicular block caused by delayed conduction in the left anterior fascicle. This case report describes the coexistence of a left anterior fascicular block and thin, hypokinetic myocardial segments in feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, suggesting a possible pathophysiological link.

Optimising dairy cattle reproduction with assisted reproductive technologies, such as artificial insemination, requires standardised semen handling and analysis. This study evaluated the kinematic structure of the spermatozoan subpopulation in frozen-thawed Holstein and Jersey bull semen doses under different thawing protocols. We used frozen semen doses taken from four bulls of each breed. Nine semen doses were collected from each animal, for a total of 72 cryopreserved doses. Straw thawing was performed at three temperatures (35 °C, 37 °C, and 40 °C) and three times (30 s, 40 s, and 45 s). Sperm kinematic patterns were evaluated using a CASA-mot system (ISAS^®v1). Sperm kinematic variables for each breed, temperature, and thawing time identified four subpopulations. The analysis revealed an effect of breed and semen thawing protocols (P < 0.05) on sperm subpopulation distribution, sperm movement, and swimming patterns. Subpopulation analyses based on semen assessment are needed to further interpret the relevance and effect on fertility.

This study investigated the effects of coriander seed powder and Lactobacillus acidophilus solution (LAS) on the growth, nutrient digestibility, blood parameters, and intestinal health of growing rabbits under subtropical conditions. Forty Californian rabbits, aged 35 days with an average body weight of 588 ± 34 g, were randomly assigned to four groups: a control group fed a standard diet, a group (T1) receiving the basal diet supplemented with 1.5% coriander seed powder, a group (T2) receiving the basal diet with oral LAS at 1 × 10⁹ CFU/kg, and a group (T3) receiving both coriander seed powder and LAS. The study measured body weight, daily weight gain, feed conversion ratio, mortality rate, blood metabolites, nutrient digestibility, and intestinal histomorphology. Results showed that rabbits fed with 1.5% coriander seed powder had significant improvements in body weight gain, feed conversion, and a reduction in mortality compared to the control. Both coriander seed powder and LAS improved blood metabolites, nutrient digestibility, and intestinal health. However, the combination of both additives did not provide additional benefits over the individual treatments. The findings suggest that either 1.5% coriander seed powder or LAS can enhance growth performance and health in rabbits under subtropical conditions.

The jandaíra bee (Melipona subnitida) is a species native to northeastern Brazil that produces geopropolis, a mixture of clay and propolis, used in folk medicine. Geopropolis has traditionally been used in folk medicine because of its potential therapeutic properties, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing effects. Recent studies have highlighted the rich composition of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, contributing to their pharmacological potential. Despite these findings, the gastroprotective properties of geopropolis and the underlying mechanisms remain underexplored and warrant further investigation. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of a hydroethanolic extract of geopropolis (HEG) produced by M. subnitida in Wistar rats, focusing on its antioxidant activity and the role of its bioactive compounds in preventing gastric mucosal damage. The gastroprotective potential was evaluated in Wistar rats pre-treated with HEG (250, 500, and 1 000 mg/kg, orally) for seven days and subjected to acute gastric lesions with ethanol (0.2 ml/animal, orally). One group of rats that received only distilled water served as the negative control, whereas the other group that received only ethanol served as the positive control. The stomachs were evaluated to determine the following parameters: evidence of macroscopic and histological changes, volume of mucus-containing mucin, stomach pH, and index of ulcerative lesions. Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Levene tests were performed, followed by the Tukey test, with values considered significant at P < 0.05. HEG reduced the severity of the ulcerative lesions at all doses tested. Additionally, there was no significant difference in the pH values of gastric secretions, mucus volume, and mucin content in the stomachs of animals pretreated with HEG compared to the negative control group. These results indicate that HEG has gastroprotective activity, which may be related to the presence of phenolic compounds and its high antioxidant activity.

Tail biting in pigs represents a very serious problem in modern pig farming, particularly with the intensification of the industry. It is considered a multifactorial syndrome and can be caused by various factors, leading to significant economic losses through reduced weight gain and partial or total condemnation of slaughtered carcasses due to secondary bacterial infections. The aim of this article is to summarise the current knowledge regarding tail biting in pigs, with a primary focus on the use of slaughterhouses for evaluating tail lesions and monitoring their prevalence. The introduction addresses the factors influencing the incidence of tail biting in pig farms and prevention strategies. Subsequent sections cover topics such as tail docking, the negative effects of pig tail biting, the advantages and drawbacks of examining tail lesions in slaughterhouses, and the methodical procedure for evaluating such lesions. Additionally, the article discusses the relationship between tail lesions and meat inspection findings, as well as the prevalence of tail lesions in various European countries.

This study aimed to determine coagulation changes in bitches with pyometra based on a series of coagulation tests and thromboelastography (TEG), and to assess the incidence of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Eighteen bitches with pyometra and thirty-four control bitches were examined. Haematological, biochemical, and following haemostasis parameters were measured, including: prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), antithrombin activity (AT), and levels of fibrinogen (FBG), d-dimers (DD), tissue factor (TF), plasminogen (PLG), tissue plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (TPAI-1), and thromboelastography. DIC was considered present if three or more of these parameters were abnormal: platelet count (<153 × 10⁹/l), PT (>8.1 s), aPTT (>25.5 s), FBG (<0.6 g/l), DD (>0.2 mg/l), and AT (<107%). Significant differences were found in the PT, aPTT, FBG, DD, TPAI-1, clotting time, α-angle, and maximal amplitude. According to our scoring system, two patients were DIC positive. The study found alterations in several coagulation tests and hypercoagulable TEG tracings in bitches with pyometra, which point to excessive activation of coagulation, delayed fibrinolysis, and the presence of DIC. No patient bled abnormally, which may suggest that DIC is not overt in the majority of pyometra patients.

One of the disorders of the mammary gland in the queen is feline mammary fibroadenomatous hyperplasia (FMFH), caused by an increasing concentration of progesterone (P4) and some other local growth factors. It occurs mostly during puberty after the heat characterised by spontaneous or provoked ovulation, as a result of exogenous progesterone intake and sometimes during pregnancy. To diagnose a 14-month-old intact Maine Coon queen with extensive mammary gland hyperplasia, a clinical examination, analyses of the progesterone (P4) concentrations and ultrasound examination were performed. Feline mammary fibroadenomatous hyperplasia associated with a high P4 concentration after spontaneous ovulation was confirmed. After 24 days of therapy with a progesterone antagonist, aglepristone, the symptoms of FMFH resolved. After the next eight weeks, the queen was mated after the owner’s decision. In the third week of pregnancy, a relapse was detected (mammary gland enlargement, pain, discomfort). At the same time, no abnormalities in the uterus or embryos were detected via ultrasound. The P4 concentrations were under regular control. For the next two weeks, only conservative treatment with NSAIDs was used. The queen spontaneously delivered six kittens without any difficulties or perinatal complications 67 days after the first mating. The cat previously treated with aglepristone for FMFH was successfully bred, but FMFH symptoms returned when progesterone concentrations increased during pregnancy.

Cerebellar hypoplasia caused by feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) is well documented in domestic cats. Still, it remains unreported in wild felid species, including the Amur leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis euptilura). Understanding the impact of such viral diseases on wild populations is crucial for advancing conservation efforts and protecting wildlife. An orphaned Amur leopard cat exhibiting idiopathic ataxia was rescued. Initial diagnostics, including physical examination, radiography, and blood analysis, yielded no remarkable findings, though its clinical signs indicated an underlying neurological problem. Subsequent real-time polymerase chain reaction tests detected FPV. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed brain lesions, including reduced cerebellar parenchyma and cerebrospinal fluid occupying the space where the cerebellum should be located. These findings suggested cerebellar hypoplasia caused by in utero FPV infection. The Amur leopard cat was euthanised owing to its permanent disability, and the necropsy confirmed a markedly shrunken cerebellum. At the same time, histopathology identified decreased cellularity of the molecular and granular layers of the cerebellar cortex. These results coincided with the MRI findings. This report suggests that cerebellar hypoplasia caused by FPV can occur in wild felid species.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of mannan-oligosaccharides (MOSs) in broiler chicken feed throughout the complete rearing cycle, focusing on zootechnical performance and lactic acid bacteria. Over a period of 49 days, a total of one thousand and eighty (1 080) day-old ISA 15 chicks were divided into two (control and experimental) groups of 540 subjects each (9 replicates of 60 chicks per treatment). They were fed the same basic diet, but only the experimental group received a yeast cell wall extract-based prebiotic (AGRIMOS^®, France), administered continuously at a dose of 2 g/kg throughout the different rearing phases. Under our local conditions, the prebiotic supplementation resulted in a significant increase in body weight gain (P < 0.01), reaching 1 559.82 ± 41.47 g during the growth phase and 913.20 ± 72.58 g during the finishing phase. Moreover, a significant reduction in the feed conversion ratio was observed throughout the rearing cycle (P < 0.05). Across all segments of the analysed intestinal tract (duodenum, ileum, and caecum), the data showed that chickens supplemented with the prebiotic had a significantly higher number of lactic acid bacteria than the control group at the start, growth, and finishing phases (P < 0.01). Our findings demonstrated a clear impact of the prebiotic on the feed utilisation under our rearing conditions, which required further studies to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action.

Ten sets of vertebral biomodels and the corresponding drilling guides were created to evaluate the implantation accuracy in the cervical (C5–C6) and lumbar (L4–L5) vertebrae of cats. Smooth pins were implanted using the guides on the right side of five randomly assigned biomodel sets and on the left side of the remaining sets, with the contralateral side undergoing freehand implantation. Subsequently, a new tomographic study was conducted to measure the implantation angles. The pre-implantation angles were compared with the post-implantation angles between the techniques and among the sets. The guide-assisted implantation exhibited a lower dispersion compared to the freehand technique, with coefficients of variation of –1.95 and 48.9 in the cervical vertebrae and 1.98 and 9.39 in the lumbar vertebrae, respectively. However, no statistical difference was observed between the pre- and post-implantation angles, nor when comparing the vertebral segments (P > 0.05). Under the study conditions, the use of the guide failed to result in more accurate implantations in the C5–C6 and L4–L5 vertebral biomodels of cats.

This experimental study evaluated the therapeutic potential of a liquorice-derived hydroalcoholic extract in managing experimentally induced peritonitis in New Zealand rabbits. The animals were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6): one control group, one negative control group (infected but untreated), three treatment groups that received the liquorice-derived extract at 0.5, 1, and 2 g/kg, and one positive control group treated with enrofloxacin. The confirmation of peritoneal infection relied on histopathological and radiographic tests. The effect of the liquorice extract on the peritoneal infection was evaluated using biochemical, haematological, and ultrasound analyses across the groups. The ultrasound examination, along with the haematological and biochemical evaluation on the 20^th day after induction, showed significant differences between the groups. The results demonstrated that higher doses of 1 g/kg and 2 g/kg were more effective than the lower dose of 0.5 g/kg. The haematological and biochemical analyses revealed significant differences in several variables (including WBC, neutrophils, fibrinogen, and liver enzymes) between the treated and control groups, with the most pronounced improvements observed in the group receiving 2 g/kg of liquorice extract, suggesting a dose-dependent therapeutic effect. The administration of a hydroalcoholic extract of liquorice at different doses, along with the standard treatment with enrofloxacin, affected various haematological and biochemical variables in the context of peritoneal infection management. In conclusion, the effectiveness of the liquorice-derived extract is dose-dependent and could be used as an effective therapeutic agent in peritoneal infections in New Zealand rabbits. These findings showed that the liquorice-derived extract effectively improves the local inflammatory and structural changes associated with peritoneal infection without adversely affecting systemic biochemical homeostasis.

This study examines the prevalence of helminthic infestations, risk factors, and odds ratios in 1 300 cattle, revealing significant patterns in parasite distribution and influencing factors. Overall, 60.3% of cattle were infested with one or more types of parasites, with Moniezia spp. being the most prevalent (46.9%), followed by Fasciola spp. (36.9%), Paramphistomum spp. (26.8%), and Avitellina spp. (10.8%). Among the seasons, winter exhibited the highest infestation rate (66.1%), and calves under one year of age were more commonly infested (64.2%) than older cattle (over three years: 51.1%, OR = 0.584 1). Distinct seasonal and age-related patterns were observed for specific parasites. Fasciola spp. was most prevalent in winter (45.09%) and among the youngest cattle (47.87%), while Paramphistomum spp. and Moniezia spp. showed less variation across seasons. Avitellina spp. had the lowest infestation rates in the spring, and cattle older than three years were affected. Co-infections were common, notably between Fasciola and other parasites, with the highest co-infestation rate observed between Avitellina spp. and Moniezia spp. Analysis of deworming efficacy indicated higher treatment success for Fasciola spp. and Paramphistomum spp., lower odds of response for Avitellina spp., and no significant treatment effect for Moniezia spp. Microscopic and pathological examinations were also conducted. These results demonstrate the necessity of thorough deworming procedures along with targeted parasite control to reduce significant health hazards in cattle populations.

A 6-year-old female neutered Turkish Angora cat was referred due to tachypnoea. The patient was diagnosed with cardiomegaly at a local hospital during a health screening two years ago. Tachypnoea occurred one year ago. On physical examination, the patient presented with a respiratory rate of 72 breaths per minute and a systolic blood pressure of 70 mmHg. Thoracic radiographs revealed severe cardiomegaly, left atrium (LA) enlargement, right atrium (RA) enlargement, right ventricular enlargement, and dilation of pulmonary arteries and veins. An alveolar pattern was identified in the right and left cranial lung lobes. Echocardiography revealed a membrane that divided the LA into two chambers, a defect in the lower atrial septum, and elongation of anterior or posterior tricuspid valves (TV). However, septal TV was not observed. During systole, blood flow from LA to RA was confirmed through a defect in the atrial septum. During diastole, blood flow from LA to left ventricular was confirmed. These findings suggest cor triatriatum sinister (CTS) with partial atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD). This report describes echocardiographic diagnosis of CTS with partial AVSD in a cat.

A 6-year-old bitch was presented to the clinical examination with the aim of determining the optimal time for intrauterine insemination by frozen-thawed semen. The bitch had already had two litters in the past. Extensive cystic endometrial hyperplasia was diagnosed by an ultrasound examination in the bitch. The timing of the endoscopic transcervical insemination by a combination of ultrasonographic examination of the ovaries and determining the progesterone concentrations contributed to the successful conception in the bitch. The ultrasonographic examination of the ovaries represents a non-invasive method which allowed us to view the changes on the ovaries in real time and, thus, is a very suitable method for the specification of the ovulation time in bitches. Cystic endometrial hyperplasia is considered to be a possible cause of infertility. Nevertheless, the bitch repeatedly conceived and had larger litter sizes. Moreover, a considerable reduction in the number of endometrial cysts was observed after the third pregnancy of the bitch. In the described clinical case, the influence of the cystic endometrial hyperplasia on the conception was not demonstrated.

In this study, the effects of vitamin D₃ (Vit. D) and a stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L. (UD)) extract were examined using histopathological and immunohistochemical methods in the stomach tissues of an experimentally created rat model of CD. The CD model was created using trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS). The animals in the study were divided into control, TNBS, TNBS+Vit. D, and TNBS+UD groups. At the end of the experiment, the animals were euthanised and their stomach tissues were evaluated for necrosis, degeneration, apoptosis, and inflammation. Additionally, an immunohistochemical method was applied to determine the somatostatin (SSTR), aquaporin-1 (AQP-1), caspase-3, and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) immunoreactivity in the gastric tissues. In the evaluations, degenerative and necrotic changes and mononuclear cell infiltration areas were observed in the TNBS group, but such changes could be improved with Vit. D and UD applications. The results suggest that the combination of the Vit. D and UD extract may have a protective and therapeutic role in mitigating TNBS-induced damage to the gastric tissues, potentially through the regulation of SSTR, AQP-1, caspase-3, and TNF-α expression. This indicates a promising avenue for further research and the exploration of these compounds in the context of gastrointestinal health.

Peripheral nerve sheath tumours (PNSTs) are rare in the mammary glands of dogs. Here, we report a case of a schwannoma, composed of two parts, of the mammary gland of a dog. The first part consists of clusters of uncircumscribed, alternating, more concentrated and looser regions. In the more concentrated parts, typical fascicularly arranged schwannoma intermingle in plexiform arrangement, more subtle in appearance than in neuronal tumour areas. The second part undergoes regression consisting predominantly of residual shorter rosettes of cells with the presence of a peculiar variably sized swirling of target-like formations consisting of compact, thicker, pinkish lamellae also with occasional adjacent cells. Immunohistochemically, the tumour cells are positive for evidence of vimentin and neuro-specific enolase. They exhibit the variable expression of the S-100 protein, show mild CD56 positivity, and focally mildly accentuated proliferative activity as assessed by Ki-67. The tumour elements are negative for evidence of cytokeratin 7, cytokeratin 20, and oestrogen receptors. Hybrid tumours may change their morphology in combination with atypical localisation and may be underdiagnosed in veterinary biopsy practice. They differ from epithelial tumours prognostically, as well as in their development and behaviour, therefore it is essential to clearly differentiate them.

The aim of this study was to identify the presence of transitional lumbosacral and sacrocaudal vertebrae in domestic mammals, to realise a comparative analysis of the localisation and conformation of this abnormal condition. The research included the following species: cattle – 29 specimens, sheep – 32 specimens, horse – 31 specimens, pig – 26 specimens, rabbit – 33 specimens, dog – 89 specimens and cat – 57 specimens. The spine of the animals was analysed post-mortem or radiologically. The investigations revealed the presence of transitional vertebrae as follows: in cattle – 3 cases (8.7%), all being about the lumbarisation of the first sacral vertebra (S1); in sheep – 3 cases (9.37%), two lumbarisation cases of S1 and one caudalisation of S4 (the last sacral vertebra); in horses – 4 cases (12.9%), all about the sacralisation of Cd1 (first caudal vertebra); in pigs – 3 cases (11.53%), two lumbarisation cases of S1 and one sacralisation of Cd1; in rabbits – 3 cases (9.09%), a lumbar supernumerary vertebra (L8) and two cases of caudalisation of S4; in dogs – 4 cases (4.49%), a lumbar supernumerary vertebra (L8) and 3 cases of sacralisation of the last lumbar vertebra (L7 or L8); in cats – 3 cases (5.26%), two sacralisation cases of the last lumbar vertebra and one case of caudalisation of the last sacral vertebra (S3). A strong lumbarisation process was observed in ruminants (especially in cattle), then in pigs, the sacralisation being prevalent in carnivores. The sacrocaudal transitional vertebra was predominant in horses. No evident influence of the sex and age of the animals was observed.

In order to determine the possibility of using infrared thermography (IRT) in preventing lameness in dairy cows, the aim of this study was to evaluate temperature variations depending on the lesion presence, measurement points and leg position. The study used about 3 000 IRT records from 60 Holstein cows housed in a free-stall barn. Surface temperature measurements were taken at two regions of the hooves: the region of the coronary band, and the region of the skin up to 2 cm above the coronary band. A highly significant (P = 0.004; 0.006, P < 0.01) difference in temperature was observed between healthy and diseased legs at both measurement points. Additionally, a significant (P = 0.029; 0.037; 0.045; 0.012; 0.018, P < 0.05) or highly significant (P = 0.004; 0.006, P < 0.01) difference in temperature values between the front and rear legs was established for both measurement points, i.e., the coronary band and the skin. Despite confirming the potential applicability of infrared thermography in the detection of lameness, it is crucial to consider the significant influences of the environmental factors, impurities, and animal-related factors.

Dog. Specifically created to save its master’s life. – (The dog is the ideal) Friend of man, (because it is his devoted slave) (source: Gustave Flaubert, Dictionnaire des Idées Reçues). But is man the best friend of the dog? This question is legitimate when we consider living situations to which modern domestic dogs are exposed. They often do not satisfy basic animal needs. In this narrative review, the author revisits the history of the dog’s presence alongside humans, in the light of current knowledge. The modern dog (breed standards and their interests in canine research) and its breeding strategy, including extreme breeding, will then be given particular attention. Dysfunctional human psychological processes will be explored to make it possible to grasp why the breeding of the modern dog is undergoing such a transformation. Finally, based on these factual and conceptual insights, suggestions to improve canine welfare will be proposed. To be effective, all these must be assessed against real-world conditions.

Tibial torsion assessment is crucial for understanding deformities and malalignments that can lead to joint pathologies in dogs. Different methods such as radiography, computed tomography (CT), and three-dimensional (3D) volume-rendering techniques have been employed to measure tibial torsion. This study compared the accuracy and reliability of tibial torsion angle (TTa) measurements obtained using radiography and ultrasound tilting techniques against those obtained using the 3D volume-rendering method in small-to-medium-sized non-chondrodystrophic dogs. Seven dogs with 11 hind limbs were included in this study. Descriptive statistics revealed mean TTa values for radiography (1.6° ± 5.14°), ultrasound (2.92° ± 3.98°), CT (4.57° ± 3.44°), and 3D volume-rendering method (5.29° ± 3.30°). Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis indicated excellent intra- and interobserver agreement between the radiography and ultrasound methods. Correlation analysis showed positive correlations between all the methods. These findings demonstrate that radiography and the ultrasound tilting technique are reliable alternatives for measuring TTa. Although slightly lower ICC values were observed than those of the 3D volume-rendering technique, the radiography and ultrasound methods still exhibited good to excellent reliability, suggesting that these alternative methods could be effective diagnostic tools for assessing TTa in clinical settings with high accuracy and reliability.

Salinomycin, belonging to ionophore antibiotics, has been used as a feed additive for poultry for its coccidiostatic effect. Poisoning by ionophore antibiotics has been reported in cattle and other sensitive animals due to the replacement of medicated feed and/or accidental overdoses. The aim of this paper is to report the toxicity of salinomycin for fallow deer and to describe the different levels of sensitivity of cervids to this substance. In the presented case study, a medicated feed containing ivermectin used for deworming red deer and fallow deer was accidentally contaminated with sodium salinomycinate in a concentration of 252.6 mg/kg. The contaminated feed was consumed by the animals over a period of four days. The mortality of fallow deer within 12 days was 58%. No mortality was recorded in the red deer. In the affected animals, clinical signs associated with acute and congestive heart failure were observed. The biochemical examination indicated prerenal azotaemia caused by circulatory insufficiency and ion imbalance. The histological examination revealed pronounced focal acute cardiomyopathy and massive subacute myopathy in the skeletal muscles.

Determination of the urinary protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPC) is an important tool in the quantification of proteinuria in animals. However, the result may be affected by the different methods of determining the urinary protein concentration. The aim of this study was to compare the turbidimetric method using benzethonium chloride and the colorimetric method using pyrogallol red in the measurement of the urinary protein concentration in dogs, cats, guinea pigs and horses. A total of 464, 192, 216 and 119 urine samples from dogs, cats, guinea pigs and horses were examined in the study, respectively. The group consisted of animals of both sexes and different ages, and, in the dogs and cats, it included both healthy animals and those with various health problems. In the group of horses and guinea pigs, only clinically healthy animals were included. A total of 347, 185, 103 and 100 samples from the dogs, cats, guinea pigs and horses were used in the statistical analysis; the other values were excluded as they were below the detection limit. According to the Passing-Bablok analysis, there was a significant constant and proportional difference in the horses. In the dogs, cats and guinea pigs, there was a significant constant difference, but no proportional difference. The Bland-Altman method showed significant bias between the two methods in the horses and cats, but not in the dogs and guinea pigs. In the dogs and cats, the agreement between the two methods was tested and expressed as Cohen’s kappa (κ). In the cats, it was almost perfect for the proteinuric samples (κ = 0.823 3) and significant for the non-proteinuric samples (κ = 0.804 9). In the dogs, the agreement was significant for the non-proteinuric samples (κ = 0.621 5) and only moderate for the proteinuric samples (κ = 0.527 5). The influence of the method used to determine the urinary protein concentration should be taken into account when evaluating the UPC. Repeated examinations in one patient should be performed with the same method.

This retrospective case series describes the signalments, clinical signs, diagnostic test results, and postoperative complications obtained from the medical records of 10 client-owned dogs that underwent treatment for grade IV tracheal collapse using double-wire woven nitinol stents between October 2017 and September 2021. Respiratory signs resolved in all dogs immediately after tracheal stent placement. Mild to moderate stent fractures were identified in five dogs, of which two showed concurrent respiratory distress necessitating re-stenting after several months. Minor complications, such as stent migration, were absent. The double-wire woven nitinol stent optimised for the canine trachea showed favourable outcomes and minimal complications.

Cadmium is one of the most important environmental contaminants. Animals grazing on natural pastures are particularly exposed to cadmium. Sheep are mostly reared in extensive and grazing systems. Therefore, sheep may accumulate larger amounts of cadmium compared to other ruminant species and are a good indicator of exposure to cadmium contamination in a given area. The determination of cadmium concentrations in the muscles, livers and kidneys of lambs and sheep was carried out in the Czech Republic during the period 2001–2022. The average cadmium content in the livers and kidneys of all the lambs was 0.037 ± 0.006 and 0.061 ± 0.013 mg.kg^–1, respectively. The average cadmium content in the livers and kidneys of all the sheep was 0.319 ± 0.047 and 1.255 ± 0.204 mg.kg^–1, respectively. The maximum limit for human consumption was not exceeded in any of the 24 samples in the lambs but was exceeded in 5 of 33 liver samples and 12 of 33 kidney samples in the adult sheep. The average value of cadmium in the muscles of the lambs and sheep was 0.004 ± 0.001 mg.kg^–1. The maximum limit for human consumption was not exceeded in any muscle sample. The cadmium content in both the liver and in the kidney differs significantly between the lambs and sheep, being higher in the sheep (P < 0.001 for both comparisons). No statistically significant trend of a decrease in the cadmium content in the lamb and sheep tissues was found during the observed time (P > 0.05). We can sum up that there is an evident need for further monitoring of the cadmium concentration in lamb and sheep tissues in the Czech Republic.

A 2-year-11-month-old female spayed cat was at the Small Animal Teaching Hospital of Ghent University presenting with hyperactivity, scratching and licking all over her body and an abnormal urination behaviour. Nothing remarkable was found on the dermatology and neurological examination. Based on the owner's history and video material, the presence of feline hyperaesthesia syndrome (FHS) was hypothesised. A symptomatic treatment with gabapentin was established for a month without any significant improvement. An elimination diet with hydrolysed protein sources was started and, as a result, the dose of gabapentin was reduced after three days and completely stopped after one week. With the exception of two non-intentional exposures to non-hypoallergenic diets and the challenge with new protein sources by the owner, the cat has been free of symptoms, with the exception of a slight reaction in the lumbar area (significantly reduced in comparison before starting the diet), and without the use of medication. In conclusion, an elimination diet should be considered as part of the diagnostic plan for FHS and should not be delegated to the last step if the patient's condition allows it.

This study aimed to investigate the technical feasibility of a percutaneous endoscopic limited-dorsal laminectomy (PELDL) and to evaluate if the decompression and examination of the lumbosacral vertebral canals could be achieved using an endoscope in small dogs. A total of eight fresh canine cadavers were used for the study. Following the injection of a barium and agarose mixture (BA-gel), which simulates intervertebral disc herniation, a PELDL was performed over L7-S1 in these animals. Computed tomography (CT) scans were obtained pre- and postoperatively to evaluate the surgical outcomes. All the procedures were completed with a clear visualisation of the spinal cord and removal of the BA-gel. The mean surgery time for the PELDL was 30.00 ± 12.01 minutes. In two dogs, iatrogenic nerve root injuries were caused by the surgical instruments during the operation. The CT scans showed that the amount of BA-gel removed was sufficient for a spinal-cord decompression. A PELDL could be used for the BA-gel removal to decompress the spinal cord and provide a clear view of the spinal canal. Therefore, it could be used as an alternative surgical option to treat lumbosacral disc disease in dogs.