Veterinary Medicine – mycolab.ai

Maternal Euglena gracilis supplementation alters sow and piglet gut microbiota, reduces diarrhea incidence, and enhances piglet growth

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This study examined how feeding sows a supplement called Euglena gracilis (an algae-derived prebiotic) affected the gut bacteria of both the sows and their piglets. Piglets born to supplemented sows weighed more at weaning and had fewer cases of diarrhea during the nursing period. The supplement changed the types of bacteria in both the sows’ and piglets’ guts in beneficial ways, promoting healthier and more stable gut communities that supported better growth and digestive health.

In vitro compatibility screening of Bacillus pumilus and Bacillus altitudinis strains with selected candidate prebiotics for in ovo application of synergistic synbiotics

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Researchers tested different beneficial bacteria (Bacillus strains) and food additives (prebiotics) to create improved formulations for chicken embryos. They found that certain plant-based additives, especially protein hydrolysate, worked particularly well with specific bacterial strains. When they tested the best combination in developing chicken eggs, it was completely safe and didn’t affect hatching rates, suggesting this approach could be used to give chicks a healthier start in life.

Avian toxicoses: a review

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Pet and wild birds can be poisoned by many common substances including metals found in cage materials, kitchen cookware fumes, toxic plants, chocolate, salt, and rodent poison. Symptoms vary by toxin but can include difficulty breathing, weakness, seizures, and bleeding. Treatment focuses on removing the source, supportive care, and specific antidotes when available, though diagnosis is often challenging due to the small size of birds.

Negative Effects of Occurrence of Mycotoxins in Animal Feed and Biological Methods of Their Detoxification: A Review

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Molds that grow on grains and feed produce toxic substances called mycotoxins that can seriously harm farm animals, causing liver and kidney damage, reproductive problems, and reduced productivity. While proper storage and farming practices help prevent contamination, some mycotoxins still get through. Recent research shows that beneficial bacteria like those in yogurt and certain yeasts can effectively remove these toxins from animal feed, making it safer for livestock while protecting the environment from harmful chemicals.

Antifungal susceptibility testing of Microsporum canis isolated from the skin of dermatologically healthy cats

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Researchers found that about 5% of healthy cats in Chile carry a fungal infection called Microsporum canis that can spread to humans. The concerning discovery is that all strains tested were resistant to fluconazole, a commonly used antifungal medication. The study shows that indoor cats are at higher risk of carrying this fungus and suggests that screening healthy cats could help prevent transmission to people who have close contact with them.

Severe Outbreak of Saprolegnia Spp. Infection in Spotted Snakehead (Channa punctata, Bloch 1793): Clinical Assessment, Histopathology, Haemato-Biochemical Indices and Insights Into Therapeutic Effects

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A severe fungal infection called saprolegniasis was found in 85% of spotted snakehead fish from Bangladesh, causing cotton-like growths, fin damage, and mass mortality. Researchers tested four different treatments over 10 days, finding that combining warm water (30°C) with saltwater (2% NaCl) was most effective, resulting in 70% survival compared to only 23% in untreated fish. This natural, cost-effective treatment approach could help fish farmers reduce losses from fungal diseases without relying on toxic chemicals.

Gastrointestinal Parasites, Ectoparasites, and Fungi in Rabbits Attending Clinical Consultations and from Private Owners and Breeders in Portugal

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This study examined parasites, mites, and fungi found in Portuguese rabbits by testing samples from 72 animals at veterinary clinics and private homes. More than half of the rabbits carried intestinal parasites, most commonly coccidia and Cryptosporidium, though few showed obvious illness. Regular cleaning of rabbit housing and proper deworming with fenbendazole significantly reduced parasite infection rates, highlighting the importance of good hygiene practices.

Infection caused by a cryptic fungal species, Blastomyces gilchristii, in a tiger

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A tiger at a veterinary hospital developed a serious fungal infection that affected its brain and lungs. Using advanced DNA sequencing technology, researchers identified the infection was caused by a previously unrecognized fungal species called Blastomyces gilchristii. This discovery was important because it showed that this dangerous fungus exists in areas where scientists previously thought it wasn’t found, and it highlights the importance of using modern genetic testing to identify unusual infections.

Disseminated Lichtheimia ramosa infection in a Japanese Black calf

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A young beef calf developed severe diarrhea and fever that did not respond to multiple antibiotics. The calf had an underdeveloped immune system (missing thymus gland) and was treated with many antibiotics and steroids, which weakened its immune system further. After death, examination revealed the calf had a widespread fungal infection caused by Lichtheimia ramosa in the liver and digestive tract, representing the first documented case of this type in Japanese Black cattle.

Disseminated Lichtheimia ramosa infection in a Japanese Black calf

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A young calf developed a serious fungal infection caused by Lichtheimia ramosa despite treatment with multiple antibiotics. The calf had an underdeveloped thymus gland, making it vulnerable to infections. The fungus spread throughout the calf’s body, affecting the liver and digestive system. This case highlights how prolonged antibiotic use and weakened immunity can allow dangerous fungi to flourish.

Research Topic: Veterinary Medicine