Kristen Frank, DVM, DACVIM

This study comprised a retrospective case series of 74 cats with urinary obstructions that received perineal urethrostomies at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Animal Hospital between September 2015 and July 2017. Medical records were reviewed for information on the number of obstructions prior to surgery, urinary tract problems at the time of surgery and other potential factors influencing long-term welfare. Owners were surveyed by telephone and text 5-29… Show more

This study comprised a retrospective case series of 74 cats with urinary obstructions that received perineal urethrostomies at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Animal Hospital between September 2015 and July 2017. Medical records were reviewed for information on the number of obstructions prior to surgery, urinary tract problems at the time of surgery and other potential factors influencing long-term welfare. Owners were surveyed by telephone and text 5-29 months after their cat's surgery. Responses were compiled and analyzed to determine owner perception of welfare postsurgery, and to identify patterns in medical history and welfare outcomes. Show less

Heartworm disease was first recognized in dogs more than 100 years ago and is still prevalent among dogs and found in cats worldwide. The complications of heartworm disease can be devastating, and treatment carries risks. Wolbachia spp are gram-negative bacteria that infect filarial nematodes, including Dirofilaria immitis, and elicit an inflammatory response in cats and dogs. Antimicrobial therapy directed against these bacteria has resulted in decreased microfilarial loads, inhibition of the… Show more

Heartworm disease was first recognized in dogs more than 100 years ago and is still prevalent among dogs and found in cats worldwide. The complications of heartworm disease can be devastating, and treatment carries risks. Wolbachia spp are gram-negative bacteria that infect filarial nematodes, including Dirofilaria immitis, and elicit an inflammatory response in cats and dogs. Antimicrobial therapy directed against these bacteria has resulted in decreased microfilarial loads, inhibition of the development of larval worms, female worm infertility, and reduced numbers of Wolbachia organisms. Antimicrobial therapy against Wolbachia spp may be useful in treating heartworm disease in cats and dogs, but further research is needed. Show less

The age at presentation and clinical signs vary among dogs; however, most shar-peis present with a history of recurrent fever and swollen joints (most commonly the tibiotarsal joint). Aggressively pursuing tests to confirm the diagnosis is important because treatment is most successful in the early stages of the disease. It is also important to remember that not all shar-peis develop this syndrome, and other causes of fever, synovitis, and renal disease should be ruled out.