VetInsight Pakistan

​1. Introduction ​ Equine Colic is one of the most common and life-threatening emergency cases faced by veterinarians. It is not a disease in itself but a general term used to describe abdominal pain in horses. The gastrointestinal anatomy of horses is such that they cannot vomit. Moreover, there are many sharp turns or flexures in their intestines. These two factors contribute to even minor gastrointestinal disturbances turning into life-threatening diseases. Internal anatomy of a horse showing major organs including the respiratory and circulatory systems. Proper knowledge of these structures helps in better livestock management. | Source: VetInsight PK 2. Common Types of Equine Colic ​It is important for veterinarians to know the specific type of colic so as to determine whether medical or surgical intervention is required. ​Spasmodic (Gas) Colic ​This is the most common and least severe colic. This occurs when the intestines contract abnormally. ​Impaction Colic ​This occurs ...

​1. Introduction ​ Lactic Acidosis , which is also known as Grain Overload , Rumen Acidosis, or Carbohydrate Engorgement, is considered to be an important metabolic disorder in cattle, sheep, and goats. This condition develops as a result of the sudden ingestion of large amounts of readily fermented carbohydrates like cereal grains. The condition causes the pH in the rumen to drop rapidly, which leads to dehydration and acidosis in cattle. Lactic Acidosis in cattle ​2. Etiology and Risk Factors ​The main cause of Lactic Acidosis in cattle is the sudden change in the diet without an adequate transition period. The following conditions may cause Lactic Acidosis in cattle: 1.​Accidental exposure to feed containing grains in the feed storage areas. 2.​Sudden introduction of high-concentrate rations in feedlots. 3.​Sudden change from a forage-based ration to a grain-based ration. 4.​Low fiber content in the total mixed ration. ​3. Pathogenesis: The Microbial Shift ​ Rumen Microbiota : The r...

Introduction Bovine Ephemeral Fever (BEF), also known as "Three-Day Sickness" or "Hadda" in local farming communities, is an acute febrile viral disease of cattle and water buffaloes. The disease is distinguished by its sudden onset and spontaneous recovery in 72 hours. However, despite its short duration, economic loss in terms of reduced milk production and temporary lameness is devastating for dairy farmers. Etiology and Transmission The virus: Bovine Ephemeral Fever is caused by an Arthropod-borne Rhabdovirus , also known as Ephemerovirus . Vector Transmission The disease is not transmitted directly from animal to animal. The virus is transmitted by biting insects, mainly mosquitoes and Culicoides (midges). Seasonality The disease is highly seasonal, with peak incidence during the monsoon or post-rainy season when insect populations are at their peak. Clinical Signs Identifying the 3-Day Cycle The clinical signs of Bovine Ephemeral Fever often follow a distinct ...

1. Introduction Milk fever is one of the most important metabolic disorders in dairy cattle, especially in older, high milk-yielding dairy cows [1, 6]. Unlike small animal eclampsia , milk fever in cattle is accompanied by progressive flaccid paralysis rather than tetany . However, subclinical hypocalcemia , where the cow is standing but has low blood calcium levels, is more prevalent and is often accompanied by other diseases such as displaced abomasum , ketosis , and retained placenta [2, 10]. 2. Pathogenesis:  The Calcium GapLactation demands that the cow mobilizes 20-30 grams of calcium daily, while her total blood calcium pool is only 3 grams [2, 4]. •Homeostatic Failure To overcome the calcium deficit, the cow has to mobilize more calcium from her bones and intestine. This is done with the help of Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and Vitamin D . •Risk Factors High amounts of potassium in the feed, which cause metabolic alkalosis , make PTH receptors insensitive, effectively 'lockin...

1. Introduction The canine viral gastroenteritis is undergoing dynamic changes with the detection of new viral pathogens. Among these, Canine Kobuvirus ( CaKoV ) has been recognized as an important, though poorly studied, agent in canine viral gastroenteritis. Though Canine Parvovirus (CPV) and Canine Coronavirus (CCoV) are recognized as major viral pathogens in canine viral gastroenteritis, the detection rate of CaKoV in infected dogs indicates that it is probably playing an active role in canine enteric viral disease. 2. Viral Taxonomy and Genetic Diversity CaKoV is classified as a member of the Kobuvirus genus in the family Picornaviridae . The viral genome is 8.2 kb in length and consists of a single open reading frame (ORF) that codes for a polyprotein that is subsequently cleaved into structural and non-structural proteins.  • Genetic Characterization:  The viral genome has been found to possess considerable genetic diversity . The detection of unique viral lineages in...

Introduction While the news of Rabies and Parvovirus dominates the front pages of veterinary journals, a stealthy and cunning foe, Brucella canis , silently attacks breeding stock and poses a danger to the general public. As a Gram-negative, facultative, intracellular coccobacillus , Brucella canis is the primary causative agent of Contagious Abortion and Reproductive Failure in Dogs. But most importantly, it's a Zoonotic disease , meaning that it can leap from your loyal canine companions to you. Transmission The transmission of Brucella canis from one dog to another, or from a mother to a puppy, or even from a puppy to a human, is a complex and not yet fully understood subject. However, Brucella canis is a highly contagious disease and can be transmitted as follows: Oronasal contact Oro-Nasal transmission of vaginal discharge, aborted fetuses, or urine. Venereal Transmission Venereal transmission, i.e., from a female in heat to a male through coitus. Vertical transmission Vertic...

1.Introduction The Helicobacter genus comprises a wide range of bacteria that have adapted to survive in the extreme and acidic environment of the stomach. Though H. pylori is the primary focus of human gastroenterology, NHPH , including H. heilmannii , are increasingly recognized for their clinical relevance [1, 2].In domestic pets, H. heilmannii is notably prevalent in both symptomatic and clinically healthy animals. The zoonotic potential of H. heilmannii, or the ability to transmit the bacteria from pets to their owners, adds a multifaceted public health issue to the management of this microorganism. Though it is associated with chronic gastritis and even gastric cancer in humans, H. heilmannii is still an understudied microorganism in relation to the human-animal bond [1, 3]. 2. Prevalence and Pathogenesis in Pets It is a common inhabitant of the stomach of dogs and cats. Studies for its prevalence have yielded a range of 41 to 100 percent in healthy dogs and cats, and similar...

What is Canine Hepacivirus (CHV)? Everyone is aware of the serious liver infection known as Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). However, not many people are aware that their canine friends also carry a similar virus that causes serious infection in dogs. This virus is known as Canine Hepacivirus (CHV), and it is one of the most interesting discoveries in the field of veterinary science in recent times.Canine Hepacivirus was first detected in 2011 and is a 'cousin' of the Hepatitis C virus that infects humans. In fact, it is the closest relative of HCV among all animal viruses that have been detected so far.[1,2] Where Did it Come From? It is believed that Canine Hepacivirus and the Hepatitis C virus share a common ancestor that lived many centuries ago— between 500 and 1,000 years ago .[2,5] It is also believed that this virus was initially present in horses and was transmitted to dogs at a time when horses and dogs lived and worked together.[2,6] Is My Dog at Risk? The first thing to k...

Introduction We all love our pets. Be it the wagging tail of our canine friend or the purr of our feline companion, they bring immense joy and happiness to our lives. But do you know that in their mouths, they harbor a tiny invisible killer called Capnocytophaga canimorsus ? This bacteria is a normal inhabitant of the oral flora of 74% of dogs and 57% of cats [1, 5]. For our pets, it is completely harmless. But for us, under certain circumstances, it may become a silent killer. Pathogenesis You don’t necessarily need to be bitten by a dog or cat to acquire Capnocytophaga. While bites and scratches are the most common modes, Capnocytophaga can be acquired by:•Licks to an open wound or broken skin•Contact with pet saliva touching mucous membranes , e.g., your eyes or mouthMost people who encounter Capnocytophaga will not become infected. For some, however, it can cause a serious life-threatening illness [4, 9]. Clinical signs The symptoms of a Capnocytophaga infection manifest themselve...

What is Feline Calicivirus? If you have a cat, you have probably heard of the " cat flu ." It is a mild respiratory infection with symptoms of sneezing, runny eyes, and possibly a few mouth ulcers. Cats usually get over it quickly with a little tender loving care. But there is a darker side to this common disease that every cat owner should be aware of: Virulent Systemic Feline Calicivirus . The Deadly Mutation: From Nuisance to Killer VS-FCV is not a new virus but rather a highly aggressive and mutated form of a common feline virus known as calicivirus . This virus is like the 'super-powered' flu virus because while the flu virus infects only the nose and throat areas, this mutated form infects the entire body. This includes the blood vessels and internal organs [1, 2].What is so scary about this virus? This virus is highly contagious and has a mortality rate up to 50% or more. This virus puts healthy, vaccinated adult cats at risk as well. Signs of the Systemic Form...

1. Introduction The Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC) is a complex condition caused by a variety of viral and bacterial infections. Traditionally, scientific research into CIRDC has concentrated on more familiar viral and bacterial infections, for example, Bordetella bronchiseptica and Canine Parainfluenza Virus . Nevertheless, the discovery of Canine Pneumovirus (CnPnV) in 2010 has opened a new chapter in the complex aetiology of CIRDC [1,2]. CnPnV is a Pneumoviridae virus related to Murine Pneumovirus and Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus (HRSV). Despite the disease potential of CnPnV, this viral infection is frequently not considered in routine veterinary diagnosis. The emergence of CnPnV as a clinically important disease entity, especially in high-density populations such as animal shelters and rehoming centres, suggests a more comprehensive approach to the complex aetiology of CIRDC [1,3]. 2. Viral Characterization and Pathogenesis CnPnV is an enveloped, s...

 What is Canine Circovirus (CanineCV)? Imagine a small and indirect virus that has been silently spreading among dogs. This is what Canine Circovirus ( CanineCV ) is! The virus was first identified in 2012 and a researchers are making efforts to determine its influence on canine health since it is relatively new and still being examined by scientists [1].CanineCV is a member of the virus family Circoviridae , as are Powassu circovirus and Cb-sav circovirus . These viruses have relatively small circular DNAs . The fact that CanineCV can do this and is therefore a permanent threat to veterinarians and pet owners is what makes that virus far more interesting and a bit worrying[2]. Canine Circovirus What consequences are there for dogs of CanineCV? CanineCV is a virus that is associated with a number of diseases in dogs, including those that are predominantly found in the digestive system . Some of the symptoms that dogs might have after being infected with the CanineCV parasite are ....