Pre-trial investigation of offenses committed against the health and life of animals is impossible without the involvement of forensic experts by law enforcement agencies or the court, as such experts possess specialized knowledge. Veterinary and biological expertise is of particular importance in this context, with its highest form being a comprehensive forensic veterinary and biological examination. In such cases, experts are tasked with addressing a range of issues related to the nature of injuries, their localization, severity, as well as determining the possible instrument of injury with specific features reflected in the wound. In view of these aspects, the main objective of this study is to develop an algorithm for the forensic detection and identification of plant objects that may be found in the bodies of injured animals. During the study, a set of modern methods was applied, including radiographic, ultrasonographic, visual, microscopic, comparative, and modeling methods. The use of these approaches yielded new data on methods for detecting foreign objects. For objects of plant origin found in the bodies of dogs and cats, stereomicroscopy and light microscopy were employed. These methods make it possible to identify the entire instrument of injury based on individual fragments (plant particles). As a result of applying a comprehensive approach to the detection and identification of foreign objects extracted from the bodies of injured animals during forensic veterinary examinations, a number of important issues were addressed, including confirmation of their presence in the animal body, determination of the taxonomic affiliation of plant particles, and identification of the instrument of injury based on its individual components. The developments presented in this study will contribute to improving the effectiveness of forensic examinations involving animals that have suffered severe injuries caused by foreign objects extracted from their bodies. Such a comprehensive approach enables the preparation of well-founded and objective expert conclusions, which may serve as evidence in judicial proceedings in a categorical form. It also expands the capabilities of pre-trial investigation bodies and the court in establishing the circumstances of a case.

Fructose is one of the most common natural forms of simple sugars and is widely used in modern animal husbandry as a component of by-products of processing of plant raw materials, molasses and high-fructose sweeteners. The growth of its share in feed causes increased interest in the role of this monosaccharide in the formation of metabolic risks in animals. The presented work summarizes information on the physiology of fructose absorption, the mechanisms of its influence on metabolism and species-specific reactions of different groups of animals. Fructose metabolism differs significantly from glucose, since absorption is carried out through transport with limited throughput, and subsequent utilization in the liver bypasses the key regulatory stages of glycolysis. This contributes to the uncontrolled formation of triglycerides, activation of lipogenesis, accumulation of fat in the liver, increased uric acid content and the formation of oxidative stress. At the same time, fructose does not stimulate the synthesis of insulin and leptin, but does not suppress ghrelin, which creates conditions for hyperphagia, obesity and energy balance disorders. The specific characteristics of the effect of fructose largely determine the nature of the risks. In ruminants, an excess of free fructose or fructan-containing feeds can provoke enzymatic disorders in the rumen, a decrease in pH, subclinical acidosis and changes in the balance of microflora. In horses, a high content of easily fermentable carbohydrates is associated with the risk of laminitis due to endotoxemia and activation of inflammatory processes. In pigs and poultry, excessive fructose can cause dyslipidemia, fatty liver, reduced productivity and the development of insulin resistance. In dogs and cats, it is associated with an increase in body weight (obesity), the risk of diabetes and fatty degeneration of the liver, which is due to limited enzymatic utilization capabilities. At the systemic level, fructose affects the intestinal microflora, reduces the production of short-chain fatty acids, weakens the barrier function of the mucosa and contributes to chronic inflammation in mild cases. These changes are key factors in the development of metabolic syndrome and related pathologies. The degree of risk depends on the form of fructose intake: whole plant feeds have a significantly lower negative impact compared to purified syrups. Prevention of metabolic disorders includes controlling the fructose content in feeds, limiting the use of concentrated syrups, optimizing the structure of the diet and using components that support intestinal microorganisms. The rational use of fructose can be safe and even beneficial, but its excessive consumption turns into a risk factor for the health and productivity of domestic animals. Thus, fructose is a key feed risk factor for metabolic disorders, which simultaneously affects lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, energy balance and liver function. Controlling fructose consumption and optimizing the diet is an important preventive measure for maintaining metabolic homeostasis and liver function in animals, which reduces the risk of developing diabetes, ketosis, hepatosis, and metabolic syndrome.

In recent decades, antimicrobial resistance has become a major global problem affecting many industries, such as medicine and veterinary medicine, animal husbandry, agriculture, the environment, and trade. Pets are considered potential reservoirs for the transmission of antimicrobial resistance to humans due to the extensive use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials and their close contact with their owners. The aim of the study was to determine the resistance of the main pathogens of infectious dermatitis in dogs and cats to antimicrobial drugs in Ternopil. The study was conducted at the Veterinary Medicine Clinic of the Ternopil Research Station of the Institute of Veterinary Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine during 2016–2023. Isolation of staphylococci was carried out on Baird-Parker Agar, enterobacteria on Endo agar, streptococci on Streptococcus Selection Agar, fungi on Sabouraud medium. The sensitivity of microorganisms to antibacterial substances was determined by the disk diffusion method. It was established that in Ternopil, in infectious dermatitis of dogs and cats in 2016–2023, the main causative agent was bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus, in particular, S. aureus and S. pseudintermedius. The most resistant staphylococci were to antibiotics of the penicillin and macrolide groups from 54.5 to 100 % of isolated cultures and to the lincosamide group – 66.7–70.4 % of cultures. The number of cultures that showed resistance to the aminoglycoside and tetracycline groups was isolated from the skin of animals 1.6–3.3 times less, and to cephalosporins, nitrofuran derivatives and fluoroquinolones – 2–6.7 times less, compared to the penicillin, macrolide, and lincosamide groups. Therefore, to reduce the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms, it is best to combine reasonable measures with the use of veterinary-rational and effective antibiotic use and antibiogram studies. In addition, monitoring the dynamics of pathogens and detecting changes in antibiotic resistance are important for the treatment of chronic bacterial skin infections in pets.

Nanotechnologies, in particular the use of nanoaquachelates of metals such as Argentum (Ag) and Germanium (Ge), are becoming increasingly important in modern biotechnological processes. These compounds combine high biological activity with safety for the body and the environment, which makes them promising for the treatment, prevention, and improvement of animal productivity. Ag nanoaquachelate has a wide range of biocidal properties, namely: bactericidal, virucidal, fungicidal, antiparasitic, and anti-inflammatory activity. It is effective against more than 650 species of pathogenic microorganisms, while not affecting the symbiotic microflora and not contributing to the formation of resistant strains. In addition, Ag contributes to the normalization of metabolic processes, improvement of liver function, and increase in the overall resistance and productivity of animals. Nanoaquachelate Ge has pronounced immunostimulating, antitumor, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It participates in the regulation of protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism, increases the bioavailability of feed, stimulates the synthesis of immunoglobulins, interferons, and interleukins, activates B- and T-lymphocytes, NK cells, and macrophages, and protects cell membranes from oxidative stress. In addition, nanoaquachelate Ge promotes increased growth intensity, normalization of behavior, improvement of immune status, and has no toxic effect on the body. It has been established that the acute toxicity of Ge citrate at intraperitoneal administration in white mice and rats is 400 mg/kg, which indicates the high safety of the drug. The combination of Ag and Ge nanoaquachelates provides a comprehensive therapeutic effect: counteracting infectious, viral, fungal, and parasitic diseases, stimulating metabolism and the immune system, and increasing the productivity and profitability of livestock farming. The use of aerosol therapy and disinfection of premises with nanoaquachelates is particularly effective, contributing to the preservation of livestock health and improvement of the physiological and immune status of the body. The review data obtained confirm the promise of widespread use of Ag and Ge nanoaquachelates in veterinary practice and animal husbandry as highly effective, safe, and environmentally balanced biologically active preparations. They not only provide therapeutic and prophylactic effects, but also contribute to the optimization of physiological processes, improvement of the quality of livestock products, and increase in the economic efficiency of the industry.

The article identifies the features of the anatomical structure and physiology of certain organs derived from the foregut of the domestic cat. The study focused on organs derived from the foregut of the feline digestive system, namely the structure of the teeth of clinically healthy cats. A set of standard morphological research methods was applied. During organ sampling, classical complex morphological and anatomical experimental research methods were used. The organs derived from the foregut of the digestive system in cats include the mouth and the organs of the oral cavity. Cat teeth are also considered derivatives of the foregut. In cats, teeth play an essential role in prey acquisition and capture, biting and tearing pieces of food, grinding and crushing food in the oral cavity, as well as in grooming behavior and defense in situations of danger. Topographically, cat teeth are located in the oral cavity on the maxillary and mandibular bones, forming two dental arches – upper and lower. Cat teeth are classified according to their location, structure, and function, and are also divided into deciduous and permanent teeth, including premolars and molars. In total, the domestic cat has twenty-six deciduous teeth, with no deciduous molars. Permanent teeth erupt by six to seven months of age and number thirty, with four molars added to the upper and lower jaws. According to their structure, location, and function, cat teeth are divided into incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Cats have six incisors on the upper jaw and six on the lower jaw, located behind the upper and lower lips on the alveolar margins of the incisive and mandibular bones. Their primary functions include food grasping and self-grooming. Incisors have specific designations: the first two on the upper and lower jaws are called central incisors, followed by the intermediate incisors, also two on each jaw. The incisors terminate with cutting edges and occur as both deciduous and permanent teeth. Posterior to the incisors on both the upper and lower jaws are two canines, which are curved inward. These teeth are fang-shaped. Aborally to the canines are the cheek teeth. The upper jaw contains six premolars and one molar. In some cases, permanent canine teeth may already be developed while deciduous teeth persist. The lower jaw contains four premolars and two molars. During mastication, the jaws of the domestic cat move vertically without lateral movements. Domestic cats possess short-crowned teeth consisting of a crown, which is visible in the oral cavity, and a root, which is embedded in the alveolus of the bone. Between them is the neck, to which the gingival mucosa is attached. The tooth crown protrudes into the oral cavity and has a characteristic contour in cats in the form of cusps of varying height. Each tooth crown has an elevated portion known as the cusp. Internally, the tooth contains a dental cavity, referred to anatomically as the coronal cavity within the crown and the root canal within the root. The dental cavity is filled with connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves and is known as the dental pulp. The tooth itself is composed of dentin, a highly durable tissue consisting of approximately seventy percent mineral substances. The crown is covered with enamel, the hardest tissue in the body, while the root is covered with cementum. In the future, morphological and morphometric studies of the contours of foregut-derived organs, namely the organs of the oral cavity, will be conducted depending on housing conditions, season, age, and breed in cats as well as in various animal species.

Otitis is one of the most common pathological conditions affecting the auditory system in cats, with parasitic, bacterial, or fungal etiology. Parasitic otitis caused by Otodectes cynotis represents a significant proportion of cases, with prevalence rates exceeding 50 % in recent studies, highlighting the clinical relevance of the disease. Secondary bacterial and fungal infections often complicate the clinical course, increase the risk of chronicity, and influence the overall systemic condition of affected animals. This study aimed to characterize the morphological parameters of peripheral blood in cats with acute and chronic otitis and to evaluate the correlation between hematological changes and the severity and stage of the inflammatory process. A total of 10 cats were included in the study, with 5 animals presenting acute otitis and 5 animals with chronic otitis. Clinical examinations assessed local signs such as erythema, edema, exudate, pruritus, and pain response, as well as systemic manifestations including activity level, appetite, and behavior changes. Peripheral blood samples were analyzed using a multifunctional morphological analyzer AI-100VET Awalife, evaluating leukocyte (white blood cell) and erythrocyte (red blood cell) parameters, including total white blood cells, neutrophils, segmented neutrophils, band neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, and platelet count. Results demonstrated that cats with acute otitis exhibited pronounced leukocytosis, neutrophilia, and elevated segmented neutrophils, accompanied by relative lymphopenia, while erythrocyte indices (red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit) were increased, likely due to hemoconcentration. In chronic otitis, leukocyte and erythrocyte parameters were closer to physiological norms, with mild monocytosis and lymphocyte elevation, reflecting an adaptive immune response. Platelet counts remained within reference ranges in both groups. Graphical analysis of platelet and red blood cell distribution confirmed normal morphology and volume distribution of erythrocytes and platelets. These findings indicate that acute otitis in cats is associated with a pronounced systemic inflammatory response, whereas chronic otitis is characterized by adaptive hematological changes and a relatively stable clinical condition. Morphological blood parameters, particularly leukocyte profiles, serve as reliable diagnostic markers for evaluating the severity and stage of otitis. The study provides a basis for further research on immunological mechanisms, treatment efficacy, and the development of automated diagnostic tools for feline inflammatory ear diseases.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of current data on the spread, genetic evolution, diagnosis, and pathogenesis of swine influenza virus on modern commercial pig farms worldwide. Based on systematized information from more than 170 scientific sources, the global epizootic situation, key risk factors for the emergence of new viral variants, and the role of pigs as a “mixing vessel” for interspecies reassortment of influenza viruses are characterized. It is demonstrated that the circulation of subtypes H1N1, H1N2, H3N2 and rarer variants (H6N6, H10N8, influenza D virus) remains active in China, Vietnam, Mexico, Europe, and North America, creating an elevated risk of interspecies transmission and the formation of new pandemic-capable strains. Special attention is given to the genomic diversity of the virus, reassortment processes, and mutations that determine viral virulence and adaptability. Genetic variability is shown to be closely linked with intensive interactions among pigs, humans, and other animal species, which promotes the emergence of evolutionarily novel strains. The article examines modern diagnostic methods – RT-PCR, ELISA, virological techniques, and innovative aptamer-based assays – as essential tools for early detection of infection and epizootic surveillance. Diagnostic limitations and the need for integrated testing approaches are also discussed. The section on pathogenesis summarizes current knowledge regarding viral interactions with epithelial cells of the respiratory tract, the roles of cellular and humoral immunity, the development of oxidative stress, and the formation of inflammatory responses. The significance of reassortment processes in the emergence of more pathogenic genotypes is analyzed, as well as the influence of ecological and technological factors on infection dynamics. The findings underscore the necessity of a multi-level approach to controlling swine influenza, including enhanced biosecurity, continuous epizootic monitoring, regular vaccine updates, and international exchange of genetic data. A comprehensive strategy is highlighted as critical for reducing risks to the swine industry and preventing the emergence of strains with pandemic potential.

The paper reveals the cytomorphological characteristics of forensic veterinary determination of the age of wounds inflicted by sharp instruments in dogs and cats. It has been proven that in cats, the inflammatory process in wounds caused by sharp instruments develops significantly faster and more intensively. Already during the first 24 hours, a sharp increase in the number of cells, the appearance of degenerative neutrophils, a significant number of bacteria, and pronounced signs of acute tissue damage are observed. In dogs, during this period, inflammation is less pronounced and is usually not accompanied by bacterial contamination. It is argued that the maximum activity of neutrophils in feline wounds occurs earlier, within 1–3 days. In dogs, however, the peak of the neutrophilic reaction and active phagocytosis occurs only on days 5–6. This demonstrates species-specific differences in the rate of granulocytic cell recruitment and the efficiency of the initial phase of healing. It has been established that the reparative stage of healing in cats begins more rapidly, as evidenced by the appearance of reactive fibroblasts and the absence of bacteria as early as day four. In dogs, the processes of granulation and fibroblast activation occur later and are less pronounced. This indicates a slower transition from the inflammatory stage to tissue regeneration. It is shown that in cats, macrophage activity in wounds appears earlier, ensuring intensive tissue cleansing and autosanation by days 5–6. In dogs, a significant number of macrophages appear only after the neutrophilic reaction subsides, which slows down the reparative process. It is substantiated that by days 7–8, stabilization of the process is observed in the wounds of both cats and dogs. However, in cats, this is accompanied by a noticeable decrease in cellularity, a reduction in chromatin strands, and fewer signs of degeneration, creating conditions for faster wound closure. In dogs, inflammation gradually subsides during this period, but protein masses remain, indicating a longer neutrophilic stage and a slower recovery rate.

The article presents the results of biochemical blood analyses as well as biochemical, biophysical, and cytological investigations of the hoof horn in cows during the winter housing period. The condition of the hoof epidermis, the presence of various forms of deformation, and the causes of their development were determined. In addition, preventive measures against ungulomycosis in cows, which occurs primarily as a result of deterioration in hoof horn quality, were developed and implemented, as confirmed by the results of the conducted studies. On the 30th day after the initiation of preventive measures, an increase in blood vitamin E content by 6.3 % and calcium concentration in the hoof horn by 14.6 % was observed. Although only a tendency toward an increase in some of the studied parameters was noted at this stage, these changes indicate the onset of improvement in metabolic processes in the cows. This was evidenced by a tendency toward reduced hoof horn moisture content and a statistically significant change in growth and abrasion indices, namely 6.9 ± 0.22 mm/month compared with 5.9 ± 0.31 mm/month, which contributed to improved abrasion of the sole horn. The results of clinical, biochemical, and biophysical examinations conducted on the 60th day of the experiment indicated more pronounced changes in the cows’ organisms under the influence of comprehensive preventive measures. In particular, blood calcium concentration increased by 16 %, while the levels of vitamins A, E, and cobalt increased by 30.0 % (P < 0.01), 8.5 % (P < 0.05), and 9.4 % (P < 0.05), respectively. The concentrations of cystine and methionine also increased by 6.9 % and 5.6 %. Alterations in blood biochemical parameters were reflected in the biochemical and biophysical characteristics of the hoof horn. Thus, calcium concentration in the hoof horn increased significantly by 9.2 % and amounted to 1.89 ± 0.041 g/kg compared with 1.73 ± 0.037 g/kg, while phosphorus content decreased by 10.2%. At the same time, sulfur concentration increased by 5.1 % (P < 0.05), reaching 18.86 ± 0.351 g/kg versus 17.95 ± 0.188 g/kg, copper by 6.4 % (P < 0.05), and zinc by 4.4 %, confirming improved mineral absorption from the feed. The corresponding values were 27.83 ± 0.432 versus 26.15 ± 0.512 mg/kg and 19.50 ± 0.425 versus 18.67 ± 0.173 mg/kg, respectively. A reduction in hoof horn moisture by 3.7 % contributed to enhanced sole horn abrasion, which reached 6.7 ± 0.30 mm/month and exceeded the analogous indicator in the control group by 26.4 %. During the period of preventive measures, an increase in the content of the studied mineral substances was observed both in the blood and in the hoof horn, resulting in improved hoof horn quality and positively affecting the intensity of hoof epidermis growth and abrasion. Therefore, preventive measures consisting of regular corrective trimming, exercise, insolation, application of anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and irritant preparations to the coronary band and the palmar and plantar surfaces of the metacarpus and metatarsus, as well as antifungal interventions, stimulate metabolic processes, enhance the animals’ resistance, and improve hoof horn quality. This, in turn, prevents the development of inflammatory processes in the dermal base of the hoof sole with subsequent microbial and fungal involvement.

The article presents the results of studies on the characteristics of the clinical course and substantiates an improved method for the treatment of chronic hypertrophic generalized gingivitis in dogs. As is known, gingival diseases in animals are among the main etiological factors contributing to reduced functional capacity of the dentoalveolar system, halitosis, tooth loss, development of inflammatory processes, sensitization of the organism, and the formation of various forms of somatic pathology. Therefore, the investigation of certain aspects of the pathogenesis of chronic hypertrophic generalized gingivitis and the improvement of existing treatment methods for affected animals are of great theoretical and practical significance. For the study, two groups of animals with chronic hypertrophic generalized gingivitis were formed, consisting of five dogs each (control and experimental groups), selected according to the principle of analogs in terms of age and the nature of the pathological process. In particular, it was established that this disease, characterized by pronounced clinical signs, is accompanied by an increased protein concentration, an increase in the number of pathogenic microflora in the biotopes of the oral cavity, increased acid phosphatase activity, and an insignificant decrease in lysozyme content in the oral fluid. It was found that dogs of the experimental group, after removal of dental calculus and sanitation of the oral cavity, were treated by irrigating the oral cavity with a 0.1 % stomatidine solution 2–3 times daily for 7 days, applying cefazolin diluted in a 1 % lidocaine hydrochloride solution in combination with a 10% dimexide solution to the gums once daily for 7 days, applying Vitomax Dentapet Gel to the gums twice daily for 15 days, and regularly brushing the teeth of dogs in both groups with Dentisept adhesive toothpaste. This therapeutic approach contributed to a reduction in the treatment period of dogs with dental pathology by 8 days. Further studies will be aimed at developing new and improved methods for the treatment of affected dogs.