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        <title>Frontiers in Veterinary Science | New and Recent Articles</title>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science</link>
        <description>RSS Feed for Frontiers in Veterinary Science | New and Recent Articles</description>
        <language>en-us</language>
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        <pubDate>2026-08-18T07:17:59.875+00:00</pubDate>
        <ttl>60</ttl>
        <item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1922532</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1922532</link>
        <title><![CDATA[The 3Fs as conditions of being: relational ontology and equine welfare in disaster response and reconciliation]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-18T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Perspective</category>
        <author>Dana Grinde</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Disaster relief work requires the collaboration of many stakeholders and can be viewed through a One Health lens, emphasising transdisciplinarity and an openness to different ways of knowing as well as an appreciation of the interdependence of human, animal, environmental health, and welfare. This perspective piece provides an autoethnographic account of a wildfire response in Western Canada in which a herd of free-ranging horses was rescued outside of conventional disaster management protocol. Through lived experience, the convergence between equine welfare, reconciliation, and relational ontology became visible. This has implications both for disaster management and for Fraser’s 3Fs of equine welfare, offering a philosophical expansion that recognises conditions of being that, together, co-constitute the potential for flourishing. The perspective advanced here aims to shift equine welfare practice from the management of discrete variables toward a practice that is defined by relational integrity and accountability, in which humans and horses are bounded beings, where flourishing results from honouring the dynamic and entangled system—understood as a shared ground of being—that humans, animals, and land belong to. This work contributes to One Health approaches by foregrounding and exemplifying relational knowledge, which is often excluded from traditionally positivist disciplines. This work situates equine welfare within broader ethical movements, including decolonial projects, efforts toward multispecies justice, and the development of One Health approaches. This alignment extends responsibility beyond individual caregivers and invites a reorientation of welfare science toward a relational ontology, offering a framework that is both practically grounded and philosophically expansive.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1926940</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1926940</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Astragaloside IV mitigated cadmium-induced glandular gastric injury in ducks by inhibiting PANoptosis]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-18T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Xuefeng Gao</author><author>Xueyuan Hu</author><author>Xilong Hao</author><author>Peng Zhao</author><author>Wenxuan Dong</author><author>Ji Sun</author><author>Zhixin Li</author><author>Xuefeng Lei</author><author>Guicheng Dong</author><author>Fu Chen</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundCadmium (Cd), a nonessential heavy metal, threatens poultry health through environmental bioaccumulation; however, its adverse effects on the glandular stomach (GS), a critical digestive and immune organ in waterfowl, remain understood. The present study was designed to assess the gastroprotective potential of astragaloside IV (AS-IV), a naturally occurring triterpenoid saponin from Astragalus membranaceus with known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, against Cd-induced glandular gastric injury in ducks.MethodsDucks received long-term dietary AS-IV pretreatment prior to Cd challenge, and GS pathological, biochemical, and molecular analyses were subsequently performed.ResultsAS-IV pretreatment significantly ameliorated Cd-induced pathological lesions, including glandular tubular architecture disruption, epithelial cell swelling, vacuolar degeneration, basement membrane sloughing, and mucosal necrosis, while reducing the GS index. Biochemically, AS-IV restored antioxidant enzyme activities, reduced lipid peroxidation, and downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokine production. At the molecular level, AS-IV downregulated the expression of pivotal biomarkers associated with apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis in GS cells. Bioinformatic analysis of protein–protein interactions additionally indicated plausible links between Sirt3 signaling cascades and PANoptosis-related mechanisms.ConclusionCollectively, these results reveal that prophylactic dietary supplementation with AS-IV confers protective efficacy against cadmium-triggered glandular gastric damage in ducks, conceivably via the regulation of PANoptosis-associated pathways mediated by Sirt3. Such evidence underscores the potential of botanical extracts as a viable strategy for safeguarding gastrointestinal integrity in waterfowl exposed to heavy metal-induced toxicity.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1903502</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1903502</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Short-term effects of pimobendan in dogs with preclinical myxomatous mitral valve disease]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-18T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Irene Apolloni</author><author>Stefano Oricco</author><author>Serena Crosara</author><author>Giorgia Cavalleri</author><author>Marco Poggi</author><author>Cecilia Quintavalla</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionPimobendan has been shown to delay the onset of congestive heart failure and prolong survival in dogs affected by myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD). However, little information is available regarding its short-term echocardiographic effects in dogs with preclinical disease. The aim of this prospective multicenter observational study was to evaluate the effect of pimobendan on selected echocardiographic indices after 7 days of therapy in dogs with American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine stage B2 MMVD.MethodsForty-two client-owned dogs received pimobendan orally at 0.25–0.3 mg/kg every 12 h and underwent echocardiographic examination before treatment initiation and after 7 days.ResultsSignificant reduction was observed in several indices of left atrial and left ventricular remodeling, including normalized left atrial diameter (p < 0.001), left atrial-to-aortic ratio (p < 0.001), maximal and minimal left atrial volumes (p < 0.001 and p = 0.008, respectively), left atrial stroke volume (p = 0.011), and normalized left ventricular internal diameters in diastole and systole (both p < 0.001). Significant decrease was also observed in fractional shortening (p = 0.007), peak velocity of early diastolic transmitral flow (E) (p = 0.001), E velocity-to-early diastolic myocardial peak velocity ratio (p = 0.031), mitral-to-aortic velocity time integral ratio (p = 0.045), and left ventricular early inflow-outflow index (p < 0.001), whereas pulmonic velocity-time integral (p < 0.001) and systolic myocardial peak velocity (p < 0.001) significantly increased. No significant differences were detected for regurgitant volume, regurgitant fraction, ejection fraction, myocardial performance index, isovolumic relaxation time, E-to-isovolumic relaxation time ratio, E deceleration, or aortic velocity-time integral. At the 1-week re-evaluation, 22/42 dogs (52.4%) showed reverse remodeling, with echocardiographic indices returning to values within the range consistent with ACVIM stage B1.DiscussionThese findings suggest that pimobendan administration is associated with early improvement in echocardiographic indices of left heart remodeling in dogs with ACVIM stage B2 MMVD and may reduce regurgitant volume shortly after treatment initiation.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1898448</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1898448</link>
        <title><![CDATA[“It’s just one piece of the puzzle…”: practitioners’ perspectives on the use of sterilisation in the management of free-roaming dog populations]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-18T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Abi Collinson</author><author>Marnie L. Brennan</author><author>Rachel S. Dean</author><author>Jenny Stavisky</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Surgical sterilisation is a common approach to managing free-roaming dog (FRD) populations, used predominantly with the aim of reducing or stabilising the population. However, monitoring and evaluation of the impacts of such programmes is limited and there can be a tendency to equate numbers of dogs sterilised with success. The aim of this study was to examine practitioners perspectives on the role of sterilisation in managing FRD populations, including insights into its perceived benefits and limitations, and the wider facilitators and challenges that shape these efforts. Purposive convenience sampling was used to recruit 15 programme staff from 12 organisations working in dog population management (DPM) globally, although Africa and the Middle East were not represented. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken and explored experiences of managing FRD populations through sterilisation. Reflexive thematic analysis generated four themes: (1) ‘Seeing only part of the problem’ describes complexities in relation to FRD populations that are frequently overlooked when planning and designing programmes; (2) ‘Not a silver bullet’ illustrates participant experiences of outcomes not materialising as expected after the introduction of a sterilisation programme; (3) ‘Looking beyond the dogs’ illustrates an increasing awareness of the importance of human factors in dog population management, rather than interventions that are solely focused on dogs; and (4) ‘Sterilisation within a wider strategy’ describes key implementation facilitators perceived as important for programme success. Reframing DPM as a ‘wicked problem’ that does not have a simple solution could help in the development and management of sustainable interventions. This would avoid oversimplification of the problem, and therefore the solution, and instead address these complexities to enable more impactful outcomes.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1933344</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1933344</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Tail biting in finishing pigs in Greek commercial farms: associations with welfare and behavioral indicators]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-18T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Michail Kakanis</author><author>Evangelia N. Sossidou</author><author>Spyridon K. Kritas</author><author>Eleni D. Tzika</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Tail biting remains a major challenge to pig welfare and the economic sustainability of pig farms, yet data from Southern European systems remain scarce. The aim of this study was to assess tail lesion prevalence, bursitis, skin lesion and behavioral risk factors for tail biting in finishing pigs, combining a slaughterhouse survey (5,765 pigs) with on-farm behavioral observation of 56 pigs. At slaughter, tail lesions were recorded in 29.4% of carcasses (27.9% mild, 1.5% severe). Intact and castrated males showed a higher severe-lesion prevalence than females, shorter tail stumps were associated with reduced severity, and lesions were more frequent in autumn, consistent with summer heat-stress exposure. Pigs with mild (28.7%) or severe (1.7%) tail lesions had a higher prevalence of hind-limb bursitis revealing a previously undescribed association (p = 0.007). To the best of the authors knowledge, for the first time it was documented that severe tail lesions nearly doubled (1.3%–2.2%) when posterior skin lesions were present (p < 0.001) suggesting that it could be used as a complementary welfare indicator at slaughterhouse. In the on-farm component, average daily gain (ADG) was a significant predictor of tail lesion severity: the odds of a higher tail lesion score rose by 73% for every 100 g/day increase in ADG (OR = 1.73, 95% CI [1.06, 2.82]). More active pigs were also more likely to direct biting behavior at penmates, and female showed more pen exploration and positive social interactions than castrated males, who spent proportionally more time in inactive states.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1827412</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1827412</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Semi-extensive management system drives lower prevalence of equine orodental disorders]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-18T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>João Ricardo Kunz</author><author>Rubens Peres Mendes</author><author>Milena Carol Sbrussi Granella</author><author>Bettina Hartl</author><author>Anderson Fernando de Souza</author><author>Joandes Henrique Fonteque</author><author>Silvio Kau-Strebinger</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionThe prevalence of orodental disorders in horses kept under different management systems is lacking. More detailed knowledge is needed to support targeted therapeutic and prophylactic approaches, as these conditions play a crucial role in maintaining equine health and welfare. This study aimed to compare the prevalence of orodental disorders in horses raised, kept, and fed under extensive, semi-extensive, or intensive management systems.MethodsSixty-nine clinically healthy adult crossbred horses with no history of dental treatment were examined, with 23 horses included in each study group previously maintained under three different management systems. All horses underwent a clinical evaluation, and an orodental examination was performed under standing sedation.ResultsIncisors (p = 0.013), premolar and molar diastemata (p < 0.001), as well as irregular incisors (p = 0.001), occurred more frequently in horses kept under extensive systems. Horses in the intensive system showed a higher prevalence of oral mucosal ulcers (p = 0.001) and excessive transverse ridges in premolars and molars (p = 0.016). Only dorsal curvature malocclusion was more common in horses managed under semi-extensive systems (p = 0.018). No differences were observed in the overall number of orodental alterations among the systems.ConclusionWe concluded that management systems are associated with the frequency and severity of dental abnormalities, with the semi-extensive system showing a lower incidence and severity than the others.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1917708</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1917708</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Computed tomographic features of pulmonary lesions in periarticular versus systemic histiocytic sarcomas in dogs]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-17T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Moritz Folie</author><author>Ahmed Abdellatif</author><author>Julia Gedon</author><author>Jan Wennemuth</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionThe aim of this retrospective study was to characterize and compare the computed tomographic (CT) appearance of lung lesions in periarticular histiocytic sarcomas (PAHS) and systemic histiocytic sarcomas (HS), identifying potential radiological differences.MethodsThe medical records of 45 dogs diagnosed with PAHS or systemic HS, undergoing thoracic CT imaging were reviewed. CT images were evaluated for various parameters.ResultsResults revealed that pulmonary lesions associated with systemic HS had larger lesion volumes, were mainly located ventrally 20/26 (77%) and were bronchocentric 23/26 (88%), often with irregular shapes 20/26 (77%) and air bronchograms 26/26 (100%). In contrast, PAHS pulmonary lesions were located predominantly interstitial 12/19 (63%), appearing round to ovoid 15/19 (79%) with less commonly observed air bronchograms 7/19 (37%). In systemic HS, lesion distribution showed no correlation with lung lobe volume (Spearman’s ρ = 0.14; p = 0.78717), with lesions most frequently observed in the right middle lung lobe 16/26 (62%). Conversely, in patients with PAHS, the distribution of lesions within the lung parenchyma showed a strong correlation with the lung lobe volumes (Spearman’s ρ = 0.94; p = 0.0048). Intrathoracic lymph node involvement was more frequent in systemic HS 21/26 (81%) than PAHS 12/19 (63%), typically with larger volumes in systemic HS.DiscussionThe nodular lung pattern in PAHS resembles the metastatic distribution seen in other high-grade sarcomas. Significant morphologic and distributional differences indicate distinct patterns of pulmonary involvement in PAHS and systemic HS, which may reflect differences in biological behavior or routes of metastatic spread and raise the possibility of distinct biological subtypes.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1920717</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1920717</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Genomic diversity and novel sequence types of Pasteurella multocida from diverse animal hosts in Connecticut, United States, 2022–2023]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-17T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Brief Research Report</category>
        <author>Jillian Barron</author><author>Nina Francesca Soriano</author><author>Zeinab H. Helal</author><author>Ji-Yeon Hyeon</author><author>Guillermo R. Risatti</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Pasteurella multocida is a zoonotic pathogen infecting a wide range of domestic and wild animals. Although genomic data are available for several domestic hosts, isolates from wildlife remain underrepresented. Here, we performed whole-genome sequencing of nine P. multocida isolates recovered in Connecticut between 2022 and 2023 from cows, a deer, a rabbit, a cat, and a pheasant to characterize their genetic features and enhance our understanding of the host-associated diversity. All isolates except one feline strain shared a common genotype across multiple host species, being classified as capsular type A and LPS type L3. In contrast, the feline isolate lacked a detected capsule locus and was classified as LPS type L1. Bovine isolates exhibited higher antimicrobial resistance, including the only multidrug-resistant isolate, and exclusively harbored antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes [aph(3′)-Ia, aph(6)-Id, sul2, and tet(H)], whereas non-bovine isolates showed low resistance and no evidence of AMR determinants. Multilocus sequence typing revealed that all bovine isolates belonged to ST1 (Multi-Host scheme) and ST79 (RIRDC scheme), while non-bovine isolates displayed greater genetic diversity, including five novel sequence types. Virulence-associated genes were largely conserved across hosts. Core-genome SNP-based phylogenetic analysis revealed largely host-associated clustering, with bovine isolates grouping with bovine lineages from other countries and non-bovine isolates clustering with genetically diverse international lineages, including avian and human-associated strains. Collectively, these findings highlight host-linked patterns in AMR and genomic diversity of P. multocida and underscore the importance of integrated phenotypic and genomic surveillance across animal hosts.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1891207</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1891207</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effects of feeding high-moisture corn on performance, meat quality, and cecal microbiota of Jinling Yellow chickens]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-17T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Tong Li</author><author>Buweiaizhar Maimaitimin</author><author>Linhai Song</author><author>Subinur Abduli</author><author>Yue Liu</author><author>Yiran Wang</author><author>Nuerminamu Aihemaiti</author><author>Wei Shao</author><author>Liang Yang</author><author>Wanping Ren</author>
        <description><![CDATA[This study aimed to investigate the effects of high- moisture corn (HMC) on the performance, meat quality, and cecal microbiota of Jinling Yellow chickens. A total of 216 healthy male Jinling Yellow chickens were randomly assigned to three dietary groups: a control group (CK, 100% dry cracked corn), an HMC50% group (50% dry cracked corn + 50% HMC), and an HMC100% group (100% HMC). Each group consisted of three replicate pens with 24 birds per pen, and the trial included a 7‑day adaptation period followed by a 60‑ day feeding period. On day 60, growth performance, slaughter traits, muscle nutrients, meat quality, untargeted metabolomics, and cecal 16S rRNA sequencing were evaluated. The HMC100% group showed significantly lower average daily gain (ADG) than the CK group (p < 0.05). The HMC50% group had significantly increased muscle valine, isoleucine, linoleic acid, and arachidonic acid (p < 0.05). Metabolomics identified 405 differential metabolites, with amino acid biosynthesis and glutathione metabolism significantly enriched, and high Ratio values for unsaturated fatty acid and glycerophospholipid pathways indicating lipid metabolism trends. The cecal Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio increased, with Weissella enriched and Lactobacillus decreased; these microbial shifts correlated with fatty acid changes. These findings suggest that 50% HMC is the optimal inclusion level, which reshapes the cecal microbiota and improves meat quality through modulation of host lipid and amino acid metabolism.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1870235</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1870235</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Correlation between clinical variables and overall survival time in dogs with multicentric B-cell lymphoma: a retrospective study in Taiwan]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-17T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Chiao-Hsu Ke</author><author>Shang-Lin Wang</author><author>Wei-Hsiang Huang</author><author>Ka-Mei Sio</author><author>Jih-Jong Lee</author><author>Yuan-Yuan Xia</author><author>Chen-Si Lin</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionMulticentric B-cell lymphoma (MBCL) is one of the most commonly diagnosed spontaneous hematopoietic malignancies in dogs. However, few studies have characterized dogs with MBCL in Taiwan, and the prognostic value of clinical variables, including clinical substage and treatment response, remains under investigation. This study aimed to characterize canine MBCL in Taiwan and evaluate associations between selected clinical variables and overall survival time (OST).MethodsMedical records of 441 dogs diagnosed with lymphoma were retrospectively reviewed. Cases with peripheral lymph node enlargement and uniformly large neoplastic cells on cytology and/or histopathology were included. Immunophenotypes were primarily determined by flow cytometry, with PCR for antigen receptor rearrangement used in a small subset for clonality assessment. Dogs that completed at least one full cycle of CHOP chemotherapy were included in the OST analysis and stratified by clinical variables.ResultsDogs with clinical signs (substage b) had shorter OST (median, 140 days; 95% CI, 126–199) than asymptomatic dogs (substage a: median, 186 days; 95% CI, 164–248). Dogs achieving complete or partial response to CHOP had longer OST (median, 196 days; 95% CI, 151–239) than dogs with stable or progressive disease (median, 182 days; 95% CI, 140–196). No significant differences in OST were observed according to serum calcium concentration (>10.5 mg/dL) or advanced clinical stage (IV–V). Cox proportional hazards analyses indicated that clinical signs (HR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.04–4.96; p = 0.040) and failure to achieve an objective response (HR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.06–4.16; p = 0.035) were associated with increased mortality.DiscussionThis study provides the first epidemiological and immunophenotypic characterization of canine MBCL in Taiwan. Clinical substage and initial response to CHOP were associated with OST, although further prospective studies are needed to validate these findings and more comprehensively characterize canine lymphoma in Taiwan.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1857696</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1857696</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Factors affecting veterinary perception of the prevalence of back pain and dysfunction in dogs and horses]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-17T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>David Lane</author><author>Kevin K. Haussler</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionThe prevalence of back pain in humans has been extensively reported, but in dogs it is unknown. In horses, research on the prevalence of back pain exists, but with reports ranging from 1% to 94%, indicating a data deficiency.MethodsVeterinarians were surveyed about their perception of the prevalence of back pain and dysfunction in dogs and horses for 6 different clinical scenarios. The respondents’ education background and physical examination techniques were recorded.Results and discussionPerceptions of the prevalence of back pain and dysfunction varied widely both within and between education groups. Sports medicine and rehabilitation specialists, and veterinarians certified in either spinal manipulation therapy or acupuncture, were more likely to report the presence of back pain and dysfunction compared to other practitioners. Clinicians that examined individual vertebral motion segments, or palpated for myofascial trigger points, appreciated a greater prevalence of back pain and dysfunction than those who did not. Respondents’ perception is that primary axial issues are a common cause of musculoskeletal pain, and can clinically present as unilateral limb lameness. Compared to appendicular lesions, primary axial lesions are more likely to be found in patients presented with a non-specific reduced athletic performance. Respondents report frequently detecting axial lesions in patients presented with no clinical history of pain, and as an additional finding in patients with a known primary limb lameness.The above findings are derived from the subjective opinion of self reporting respondents and do not necessarily represent true prevalence of back pain and dysfunction; further quantitative research using objective methods is required to make that determination. These results do underscore the need for improved veterinary education on how to assess back pain, myofascial tone, and spinal range of motion. Greater agreement between clinicians might also be achieved by developing a standardized reporting method that semi-quantifies the severity of pain and dysfunction individually. Additionally, standardizing and reporting spinal physical examination methodology may also facilitate consistent communication of clinical findings and greater agreement between clinicians.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1870026</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1870026</link>
        <title><![CDATA[First hematological and biochemical findings in a rehabilitated giant pangolin (Smutsia gigantea) from Southern Cameroon]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-17T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Brief Research Report</category>
        <author>Marine Montblanc</author><author>Jessica Harvey-Carroll</author><author>Julie Vanassche</author><author>Mark Donaldson</author><author>Ellen Connelly</author><author>Lisa Hywood</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Giant pangolin (Smutsia gigantea) is one of the least studied pangolin species worldwide, with no published hematological and biochemical data available. We report the first blood parameters from a rehabilitated adult male from Campo Ma'an National Park (southern Cameroon). These preliminary descriptive values, obtained from a single individual sampled during the rehabilitation period, are described and discussed in relation to available data from other pangolin species. They provide the first clinical data for this species and highlight their relevance for medical assessment, health monitoring, and conservation management, while underlining the need for further sampling to establish reference values.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1882023</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1882023</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Case Report: Diagnosis of multiple juvenile angiomatosis in a newborn calf]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-17T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Case Report</category>
        <author>Takeshi Tsuka</author><author>Kodai Kusuda</author><author>Sohta Hishikawa</author><author>Natsuki Hashimoto</author><author>Yuji Sunden</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Juvenile angiomatosis is a rare vascular anomaly that has never been examined by ultrasonography and computed tomography in bovine practice. A four-days-old, Japanese-Black, male calf presented with multiple swollen skin lesions aligned along the dorsoventral axis of the left thoracic wall. Ultrasonography showed homogeneous echogenic masses between the subcutaneous and muscular structures. Anatomical connection between the mass lesions and neighboring structures was ultrasonographically unclear based on differences in echogenicity and the hyperechoic membranous structures between them. Doppler ultrasonography revealed poor vascularity, which is a common feature of mass lesions. Computed tomography (CT) revealed seven masses in the left thoracic wall. Five of the seven masses were isolated from each other, although there was an anatomical connection between two masses formed at the level of the spinous processes of the ninth to thirteenth thoracic vertebrae. The largest mass was located in the most ventral region of the thoracic wall, corresponding to deformities of the sixth to tenth ribs, which showed severe inward rolling into the thoracic cavity on three-dimensional CT. Core-needle biopsy allowed histopathological observation of the predominant intra-mass configuration of vessel-like structures. Histopathological examination of tissue samples collected at necropsy revealed that multiple immature vessel-like structures were present within the mass lesions that commonly involved the skeletal muscles. Positive immunostaining was found for von Willebrand factor in the endothelial cells, and for alpha-smooth muscle actin in the cells comprising the walls. These findings could support a diagnosis of bovine juvenile angiomatosis. Both ultrasonography and CT provided no definitive evidence to support the macroscopic and histopathological findings showing invasion of the masses into neighboring muscular structures. A combination of diagnostic techniques, including ultrasonography, CT, and core-needle biopsy, helped provide complementary information that supported the histopathological and immunohistochemical diagnosis of this disease.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1857938</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1857938</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Case Report: Transitional meningioma in a free ranging mantled howler monkey (Alouatta palliata)]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Case Report</category>
        <author>Mario Romero-Vega</author><author>Katharina Gregor</author><author>Isabel Hagnauer</author><author>Alejandro Alfaro-Alarcón</author><author>Andreas Beineke</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Neoplasia in free ranging wildlife remains poorly documented, particularly in non-human primates. An adult free ranging female mantled howler monkey (Alouatta palliata) was found conscious but non-ambulatory on a country road in northwestern Costa Rica. Following admission to a wildlife rescue center, euthanasia was elected due to poor prognosis and body condition. At necropsy, three firm, gritty, white masses were identified on the inner surface of the parietal bones. Histopathologic examination revealed a well-circumscribed, moderately cellular, encapsulated neoplastic proliferation arising from the dura mater and compressing the cerebral cortex while sparing the leptomeninges. Neoplastic cells were arranged in whorls and occasional interlacing streams, with sporadic psammoma bodies. A diagnosis of transitional meningioma was made. Immunohistochemically, neoplastic cells were positive for S100 and negative for pan-cytokeratin, vimentin, and E-cadherin. Reports of meningiomas in non-human primates, particularly in free ranging individuals, are scarce. This case contributes to the limited knowledge of neoplasia in wildlife and underscores the value of documenting neoplasia in free ranging primates.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1912728</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1912728</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Mitigating antimicrobial resistance in the animal industry: reduction strategies and alternatives to antibiotics]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Hanan Al-Khalaifah</author><author>Tahani Al-Surrayai</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a worldwide issue of human and animal health, food security, and environmental sustainability due to its seriousness and the challenge of resolving it. Widespread utilization of antibiotics in the animal industry for metaphylactic, therapeutic, production, and prophylactic purposes has significantly contributed to the spread and emergence of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. Food- producing animals are also deemed as good reservoirs of “antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) and antimicrobial- resistant bacteria (ARB)” that may contaminate humans through the food chain, environmental pathway, and direct contact. Moreover, the discharge of antibiotic residues into the soil and water systems enhances selective pressure among microbial communities, making AMR a nature of One Health. This review summarizes the major strategies to reduce antibiotics use in the animal industry, which include: better husbandry and biosecurity measures, vaccination, wise use of antimicrobials, manure and environmental management. Special attention is given to non-antibiotic options like probiotics, prebiotics, phytogenic compounds, organic acids, immunomodulators, and other feed-based or biological interventions that are emphasized to maintain animal health and productivity while reducing antibiotic use. Through a combination of these strategies in a One Health paradigm, this review outlines feasible and viable solutions to help curb the problem of AMR in the animal sector. Findings highlight the importance of concerted action by producers, veterinarians, policymakers, and researchers to decrease the reliance on antibiotics and protect human health and animal production systems.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1857440</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1857440</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Carbohydrate source modulates protein and amino acid digestibility patterns in domestic cats]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Woong Ji Lee</author><author>Eun Ryul Oh</author><author>Jun-Hyeong Seo</author><author>Yangseon Kim</author><author>Sung Ho Lee</author><author>Hyun-Jun Jang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Domestic cats are obligate carnivores with high dietary protein requirements, yet carbohydrates remain functionally necessary in extruded dry foods. Because carbohydrate matrices may be associated with nutrient accessibility during digestion, this study evaluated whether defined protein- and carbohydrate-source formulations are associated with nutrient and amino acid apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) in cats. A total of 117 Korean short-haired domestic cats were enrolled and underwent a two-week adaptation period before digestibility evaluation. Twelve diets were formulated to compare six protein sources (chicken, duck, salmon, pollock, beef, and cricket) using rice as a reference carbohydrate source and six carbohydrate sources (rice, corn, potato, tapioca, sweet potato, and wheat) using chicken as a reference protein source. ATTD of nutrients and amino acids was measured, and an efficiency ratio (ER) was calculated as an exploratory descriptive ratio reflecting the relationship between crude protein ATTD and the carbohydrate digestibility denominator. Among protein sources, duck, chicken, and salmon showed the highest protein digestibility (86.36, 85.72, and 83.05%, respectively), whereas beef and cricket showed lower values (74.77 and 74.97%). Among carbohydrate sources, rice and corn showed higher protein digestibility (85.72 and 76.82%, respectively) than wheat, tapioca, potato, and sweet potato (75.23, 74.49, 72.52, and 72.04%, respectively) within the tested chicken-based formulations. Although rice showed the lowest carbohydrate digestibility (7.71%), it yielded the highest ER (11.12), reflecting high crude protein ATTD relative to the carbohydrate digestibility denominator rather than direct evidence of protein utilization efficiency. Seven candidate indicator amino acids (Ala, Ser, Val, Thr, His, Phe, and Ile) were identified based on their strong linear agreement with crude protein ATTD across both source categories. Exploratory group-level regressions showed positive associations between ER and selected candidate amino acid ATTD values, with the strongest relationships observed for Phe (R2 = 0.89), Ala (R2 = 0.87), and Ile (R2 = 0.85). These findings suggest that carbohydrate source may be associated with protein and amino acid ATTD within fixed-matrix feline diet formulations. However, ER should be interpreted as a preliminary, matrix-sensitive descriptive index requiring further validation rather than as a direct measure of protein bioavailability or post-absorptive amino acid utilization.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1912990</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1912990</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection and risk factors in sheep from Afyonkarahisar province, Türkiye]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Ahmet Cihat Tunç</author><author>Mahmut Sinan Erez</author><author>Esma Kozan</author><author>Fatih Mehmet Birdane</author><author>Luis Pablo Hervé-Claude</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundToxoplasma gondii is a major zoonotic pathogen causing reproductive losses in sheep and posing significant public health risks, particularly through meat consumption and congenital infection. Despite Afyonkarahisar Province being one of the most important sheep-producing regions in Türkiye, no farm-level seroepidemiological study with structured risk factor analysis had previously been conducted there.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted between September and December 2025 on 550 sheep blood samples collected from 55 commercial farms across Afyonkarahisar Province. Anti-T. gondii antibodies were detected using a commercial indirect ELISA (ID Screen® Toxoplasmosis Indirect Multi-Species, IDvet), with samples classified as positive (sample-to-positive percentage [S/P%] ≥ 50%), doubtful (40%−50%), or negative (≤40%). A structured questionnaire was administered to collect 19 farm- and animal-level variables. Associations with seropositivity were evaluated by univariable analysis and a mixed-effects logistic regression model with farm as a random effect, with Firth's penalized regression applied to obtain stable estimates where quasi-complete separation occurred.Results and DiscussionThe overall animal-level seroprevalence was 42.2% (232/550; 95% CI: 38.0%−46.4%), and 44 of 55 farms (80.0%; 95% CI: 67.0%−89.6%) were classified as seropositive. In multivariable analysis using Firth's penalized logistic regression, five variables were independently associated with higher seropositivity: flock-level history of abortion (aOR = 3.77; 95% CI: 2.41–6.00), age over 12 months (aOR = 3.54; 95% CI: 2.15–5.97), communal pasture use (aOR = 74.12; 95% CI: 10.22–9431.54, wide owing to quasi-complete separation), leaving aborted materials on site (aOR = 2.30; 95% CI: 1.49–3.61), and irregular barn cleaning (aOR = 2.32; 95% CI: 1.46–3.72). Cat presence was universal across all 55 farms, precluding statistical evaluation; however, stray cats had unrestricted access to feed and water on every farm, likely representing the primary driver of environmental oocyst contamination. Breed, sex, water source, and antiparasitic drug type were not significantly associated with seropositivity. T. gondii infection is highly endemic in sheep in Afyonkarahisar, with seroprevalence exceeding the national average. Stray cat access control, safe disposal of aborted materials, and routine differential diagnosis for abortifacient pathogens are recommended as priority interventions for reducing infection pressure and mitigating both animal health and public health risks within a One Health framework.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1868627</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1868627</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effects of sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) hydrolysable tannins on animal performance, health and manure ammonia and nitrous oxide emissions in preweaning holstein calves]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Elena Scaglia</author><author>Laura Gogna</author><author>Anna Antonioli</author><author>Livio Galosi</author><author>Gianni Gilioli</author><author>Valentina Caprarulo</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Tannins are plant-derived compounds that can improve animal health by modulating gut health, and reducing the incidence of diarrhea, also influencing the emissions of nitrous oxide and ammonia in animal manure. This study evaluated the effects of hydrolysable tannins from sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) on growth performance, intestinal health, clinical insights, and ammonia and nitrous oxide emissions from manure in Holstein calves. Twenty-four preweaning female Holstein calves were randomly assigned to two experimental groups according to body weight (BW; 39.37 ± 3.42 kg) and age (3.83 days-of-life) for a 56-day trial, a control group (CTRL) fed with milk replacer, and a treatment group (VITAN) fed milk replacer supplemented with 10 g/day of chestnut tannins. Body weight and rectal temperature were recorded on d 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 49, 56. Milk intake, hay intake, average daily feed intake of solid feed, average daily gain and fecal and clinical scores were daily recorded. Fecal samples were collected on d0, d28, and d56 to determine total bacterial counts, coliforms and Lactobacillus spp. Blood samples were collected on d0 and d56 for metabolic profile. After the in vivo trial, manure (feces, urine and straw) of CTRL and VITAN were collected from individual pens, and pooled into six dynamic-chambers (3/treatment) to simulate a 49-day manure storage period. Emissions of NH3 and N₂O (mg/g/h) were monitored by Gasmet-GT5000, and chemicals analysis were performed on d0 and d49. VITAN group showed a reduction of solid average daily feed intake (p < 0.01) without compromising growth performance. The VITAN group showed significantly higher frequency of normal fecal consistency (FS0-1; p < 0.01) and improved fecal consistency. Tannin supplementation appeared to influence manure emissions, lower NH₃ emissions were observed on d0 and 1, and lower N₂O emissions on d1, 2, and 5 in VITAN group. Manure temperature was higher in VITAN group. Chemical analysis also showed lower total solids, ash, and total carbon in VITAN manure on d49. These results should be considered preliminary and require confirmation in studies including biological replicates and appropriate statistical evaluation. In conclusion, tannins might represent a promising nutritional strategy with potential effects on health-related parameters and manure gaseous emissions under the conditions evaluated in this study.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1889657</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1889657</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward African swine fever among commercial pig farm producers in Takeo and Kampong Speu provinces, Cambodia]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Bunna Chea</author><author>Kouch Theng</author><author>Ha Thi Thu Le</author><author>Bao Dinh Truong</author><author>Flavie Luce Goutard</author>
        <description><![CDATA[African swine fever (ASF) poses a major transboundary threat to swine production in Cambodia and across the Asia–Pacific region, with significant economic and food security implications. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from August to October 2024 to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of commercial pig producers in Kampong Speu and Takeo provinces regarding ASF prevention and control. A structured questionnaire was administered to 76 commercial farms housing more than 100 fattening pigs or 50 breeding pigs. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize KAP levels, biosecurity implementation, and challenges, while inferential analyses explored associations among KAP components. Scores were categorized according to Bloom's cut-off criteria as poor (< 60%), moderate (60%−80%), or good (>80%). Respondents generally demonstrated moderate knowledge of ASF characteristics, transmission pathways, and prevention and control measures (73.6%; 95% CI: 64.2–75.5). Nonetheless, notable gaps remained, particularly in recognizing clinical signs and understanding diagnostic procedures ([41.4%; 95% CI: 34.6–49.7). Most producers expressed positive attitudes toward ASF-related biosecurity measures (89.4%; 95% CI: 80.6–94.6) and reported high compliance with hygiene protocols and equipment disinfection (88.3%; 95% CI: 79.0–93.6). No significant associations were found between knowledge and either attitude or practice (p > 0.05), and sociodemographic factors did not significantly influence KAP outcomes (p > 0.05). In conclusion, commercial pig producers demonstrated moderate knowledge and generally positive attitudes toward ASF prevention, with strong implementation of several routine biosecurity and hygiene practices. However, important gaps remained in ASF reporting, visitor-log recording, and emergency preparedness knowledge. To achieve sustainable control, interventions should move beyond information dissemination and promote behavioral change through targeted education, continuous veterinary engagement, and practical biosecurity support. Strengthening these components will be essential for enhancing ASF preparedness and resilience within Cambodia's commercial pig sector, thereby mitigating the risk of disease spread.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1897559</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1897559</link>
        <title><![CDATA[SARS-CoV-2 infection in dogs, dog owners, dog breeders, and veterinarians in the Ashanti and Greater Accra regions of Ghana—zoonotic implications]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-13T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Esther Amemor</author><author>Raphael Deladem Folitse</author><author>Achim Hoerauf</author><author>Marijo Parcina</author><author>Manuel Ritter</author><author>Vitus Burimuah</author><author>Bertha Asuamah Yeboah</author><author>Benjamin Obukowho Emikpe</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundAfter the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an increasing concern over the causative agent, SARS-CoV-2, mutating into a more virulent strain in animals and spilling over to humans, a potential threat of future pandemics. Anthropo-zoonotic transmissions of the virus can as well not be ruled out. The dynamics of spillover of SARS-CoV-2, particularly from humans to animals and has not been fully studied. Livestock and pet owners, as well as animal health workers, have been documented to be at greater risk of COVID-19 infection. To effectively control and prevent the COVID-19 disease, the virus needs to be adequately studied in humans, animals and the environment. There is limited information on COVID-19 infections in animals in Ghana.MethodsA cross-sectional study was carried out to ascertain the COVID-19 infection status in dogs, their owners, dog breeders, and veterinarians in Ghana, specifically in the Ashanti and Greater Accra regions. Blood samples and nasopharyngeal swabs were taken from dogs for serological and molecular analysis. Questionnaires on COVID-19 risk factors were administered. SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in sera and viral RNA in swabs were detected using ELISA and RT- PCR, respectively.ResultsIt was observed that 2.3% (CI = 1%−5.3%) of the dogs tested positive on RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2; 5.1% (CI = 2.4%−10.7%) of humans tested positive on PCR for SARS-CoV-2. A seroprevalence of 6.5% (CI = 3.9%−0.6%) of SARS-CoV-2 was detected in dogs, and 99.1% (CI = 95.3%−99.8%) seropositivity was detected in humans. Close proximity to livestock was statistically associated with active SARS-CoV-2 infection in dogs (p = 0.004). In humans, a statistically significant association was found between infrequent mask use in public and a positive SARS-CoV-2 infection (p = 0.009).ConclusionThis study provides evidence of natural SARS-CoV-2 infection in dogs in Ghana, among the first such indications in the sub-Saharan African region. Close proximity to livestock was associated with infection in dogs and inconsistent mask use with infection in humans, though the cross-sectional design precludes determination of transmission direction, and these associations should be regarded as hypothesis-generating. Longitudinal studies with larger samples and viral sequencing will clarify SARS-CoV-2 transmission dynamics among humans, animals, and environment.]]></description>
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