Parasitology

Cats are host to a variety of internal and external parasites. Despite the documented prevalence and zoonotic importance of these parasites, many pet owners and some veterinarians aren't convinced that comprehensive feline parasite control strategies are needed. This viewpoint may stem from the previous lack of safe, effective, and convenient broad-spectrum parasiticides and the difficulties in acquiring adequate fecal samples. Fortunately, newer broad-spectrum agents (Table 1), particularly those with label claims against heartworms and fleas, allow veterinarians to eliminate a higher percentage of feline parasites. Let's review some of the key feline parasites and discuss new strategies for controlling them.

We now have an arsenal of test kits and prophylactics to choose from, and it can be confusing to know which to purchase. We tend to mold ourselves to the product instead of molding the product to the individual patient. This article should help you tailor the heartworm diagnostic, therapeutic, and prophylactic options to each of your canine and feline patients.

Environmental contamination with infectious stages of gastrointestinal helminths is widespread, and the risk of reinfection of pets, particularly those allowed to roam freely outside, is great.

Several vector-borne diseases in dogs and cats appear to be emerging in the United States, including babesiosis, cytauxzoonosis, bartonellosis, leishmaniasis, hepatozoonosis, and feline ehrlichiosis. This article focuses on babesiosis, cytauxzoonosis, and bartonellosis, which have been reported with increased frequency in the United States over the past decade.

The media buzz may have quieted considerably, but West Nile virus continues to cause illness and death nationwide and is here to stay. Within six years of the initial detection of this exotic mosquito-borne virus in New York, it has spread to all continental states, through Canada and Mexico, and into Central America.

The time from deposition of eggs to adult flea emergence is called the developmental window and can be up to three months in duration.

The CAPC guidelines are based on the concept that awareness of heartworms and other parasites can increase compliant use of broad-spectrum agents.

When Rollie, a 10-year-old male Shetland sheepdog, was found to have transitional cell carcinoma, Rollie's veterinarian wanted to make sure that he could be safely treated with doxorubicin.

Duluth, Ga.-According to a survey sponsored by Merial, veterinarians believe fleas will be the number one health risk for pets this spring and summer.

Washington-The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a stop-sale, use and removal orders to retailers and other distributors of counterfeit pesticide products for fleas and ticks.

An owner depends on the veterinarian to assess the danger of any potential disease to his or her dog or cat. In some instances, these dangers are well known by the general public (rabies, distempter, FeLV), and owner's may request these "preventative measures".

Phoenix-The American Heartworm Society has re-launched its Web site to reinforce awareness, diagnosis and prevention of heartworm disease in pets.

Dr. Byron Blagburn offers support to understanding why the life cycle and epidemiology of heartworms is required for diagnostic, treatment and control strategies.

Duluth, Ga.-The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and Merial want to recruit "heart guardians".

Signalment: Canine, Basset Hound, 9 weeks old, female, 12 lbs.

Kerrville, Texas-Agriculture Research Service (ARS) scientists have shortened the time needed to spot tick resistance to pyrethroids in Mexican cattle.

Understanding the life cycle of ticks offers insight on how they transmit diseases to dogs

Comprehensive approach to discussion arms client to make informed decision

DVMs face emerging problems and issues with the development of newer drugs, diagnostic methods and pet-owner awareness

Thorough testing aids in determining co-infections in dogs

Advancements in technology enable veterinarians, owners to eliminate fleas at most stages of development

Byron Blagburn sheds light on the problems internal parasites can cause to the health of cats and their owners.

Dr. Ray Dillon explores the challenges practitioners face when diagnosing heartworm disease in cats.

Dr. Michael Dryden tackles the difficult to task of controlling flea infestations in cats through an intergrated approach to prevention.

Dr. Byron Blagburn takes a look at the advancements made in heartworm prevention and the impact they have made.