Complex Feline Disease Mapping Using a Dense Genotyping Array.

The current feline genotyping array of 63 k single nucleotide polymorphisms has proven its utility for mapping within breeds, and its use has led to the identification of variants associated with Mendelian traits in purebred cats. However, compared to single gene disorders, association studies of complex diseases, especially with the inclusion of random bred cats with relatively low linkage disequilibrium, require a denser genotyping array and an increased sample size to provide statistically significant associations. Here, we undertook a multi-breed study of 1,122 cats, most of which were admitted and phenotyped for nine common complex feline diseases at the Cornell University Hospital for Animals.

One-year study evaluating efficacy of an iodine-restricted diet for the treatment of moderate-to-severe hyperthyroidism in cats.

Purpose: This study sought to determine the efficacy of a therapeutic iodine-restricted diet during a 12 -month interval in cats with moderately to severely increased total thyroxine (TT4) concentrations.

Patients And Methods: Eight hyperthyroid cats with serum creatinine <2.0 mg/dL and TT4 >6.

Assessment of canine autologous platelet-rich plasma produced with a commercial centrifugation and platelet recovery kit.

Objectives: To characterize the cellular composition (platelets, erythrocytes, and leukocytes) and confirm reproducibility of platelet enrichment, as well as determine the platelet activation status in the final product of a commercial platelet-rich plasma kit using canine blood.

Methods: Venous blood from 20 sedated client-owned dogs was used to prepare platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from a commercial kit. Complete blood counts were performed to determine erythrocyte, leukocyte, and platelet numbers in both whole blood (WB) and resultant PRP.

The associations between serum adiponectin, leptin, C-reactive protein, insulin, and serum long-chain omega-3 fatty acids in Labrador Retrievers.

Obesity has been associated with an increased inflammatory response and insulin resistance due to adipose tissue-derived adipokines and increases in C-reactive protein (CRP). Dogs appear to be similar to other species with the exception of adiponectin, which might not be affected by obesity status. Serum long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations have been positively and negatively associated with serum adipokines.

Evaluation of dietary energy intake and physical activity in dogs undergoing a controlled weight-loss program.

Objective: To quantify physical activity and dietary energy intake in dogs enrolled in a controlled weight-loss program and assess relationships between energy intake and physical activity, sex, age, body weight, and body condition score (BCS).

Design: Prospective clinical study.

Animals: 35 client-owned obese dogs (BCS > 7/9).

Use of pedometers to measure the relationship of dog walking to body condition score in obese and non-obese dogs.

The objective of the present study was to utilise an accurate canine pedometer methodology and to assess the relationship between activity and body condition score (BCS) in dogs. Initial methodology validation used videography and pedometer step measurements to assess actual steps taken in comparison with pedometer readings for twenty large, medium and small dogs. During the validation, dogs considered to be medium or large breed showed no significant difference between pedometer readings and actual steps taken.

Cross-sectional study to investigate the association between vitamin D status and cutaneous mast cell tumours in Labrador retrievers.

Epidemiological data indicate that low serum vitamin D concentrations are associated with an increased risk of a variety of human tumours. Cutaneous mast cell tumours (MCT) occur more frequently in dogs than in any other species. Canine MCT express the vitamin D receptor, and vitamin D derivatives have in vitro and in vivo anti-tumour activity.

The effects of weight loss on adipokines and markers of inflammation in dogs.

Evidence suggests that adipose tissue-derived adipokines induce mild inflammation and may play a role in insulin resistance associated with diabetes. The present study was designed to examine a series of adipokines and markers of inflammation in dogs before and after a successful weight loss. The study included fasting serum samples from twenty-five dogs before and after a weight-loss programme.

Potential role for peptidylarginine deiminase 2 (PAD2) in citrullination of canine mammary epithelial cell histones.

Peptidylarginine Deiminases (PADs) convert arginine residues on substrate proteins to citrulline. Previous reports have documented that PAD2 expression and activity varies across the estrous cycle in the rodent uterus and pituitary gland, however, the expression and function of PAD2 in mammary tissue has not been previously reported. To gain more insight into potential reproductive roles for PAD2, in this study we evaluated PAD2 expression and localization throughout the estrous cycle in canine mammary tissue and then identified possible PAD2 enzymatic targets.