Turkish Angora Research Articles

Mitotyping of random bred cats and pure breed cats (Turkish Angora and Turkish Van) using non-repetitive mitochondrial DNA control region

The Fertile Crescent appears to be the most plausible region where the domestication of cats commenced through a mutually beneficial relationship between wild cats and early agrarian societies. These domesticated cats then journeyed across the globe mirroring the paths of human migration. An examination of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region-based mitotyping suggested that a significant majority, exceeding 80%, of globally sampled random-bred and pure-bred cats could be categorized into 12 predominant mitotypes. However, the extent of mitotype diversity within random-bred cats from regions proximate to the Fertile Crescent remains inadequately explored. In light of this we aimed to investigate the mitotype diversity in random bred cats sampled from various regions across Turkey. Additionally, we sought to establish a comparison with the mitotype profiles of locally recognized pure breeds, namely the Turkish Angora and Turkish Van. To unravel their evolutionary narratives, we engaged in comprehensive population genetics analyses at both the individual and mitotype-based levels. Our study encompassed a sample size of 240 specimens, forming the basis for both mitotyping and population genetics scrutiny. Our analysis yielded the identification of nine ‘universal’ mitotypes (A—J), alongside an ‘outlier’ mitotype group I. Notably mitotypes A and D emerged as particularly prevalent in contrast to the lesser occurrence mitotypes C, G, and H. With the realm of random bred cats the structure of haplotypes exhibited remarkable diversity presenting distinctions from Turkish Angora and Van breeds. Nucleotide diversity was higher compared to previous reports from Turkey and was one of the highest among reported world cat population estimates. Intriguingly, our investigations did not unveil any pronounced instances of strong selection, population expansions or contractions within any specific population or mitotype. To conclude, our study represents a pioneering effort in uncovering the mitotype profiles and haplotype structures inherent to both random-bred and pure breed cats in Turkey. This endeavor not only broadens our understanding of the feline genetic landscape within the region but also lays the foundation for future inquiries into the evolutionary trajectories and genetic legacies of these feline populations.

Long-term observations of feline meningoencephalitis of unknown etiology: clinical, CSF, and MRI findings

A 4-year-old neutered female Turkish Angora cat presented with acute onset of obtundation, right-sided head turn, and rolling. On neurologic examination, postural reactions were found either absent or decreased in all four limbs. Cranial nerve examination, such as menace response, pupillary light, and oculocephalic reflex, showed absent or decreased results. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated demarcated lesions in the thalamus and brainstem, which were marked hyperintense on T2-weighted and FLAIR images and isointense on T1-weighted images. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) nucleated cell count was markedly elevated (258 cells/µl) with a neutrophilic pattern. The CSF polymerase chain reaction for infectious agents was negative. Based on these results, a diagnosed of feline meningoencephalitis of unknown etiology (FMUE) was made. The cat was treated with prednisolone (3 mg/kg, twice a daily), which was gradually tapered off. The follow-up of clinical signs, MRI, and CSF analysis was performed at 33, 118, and 611 days after the initial therapy. At 33 days, abnormalities of clinical signs, MRI, and CSF almost disappeared. At 139 days, because all examinations showed normal findings, the treatment was stopped. At 611 days, the final examinations showed no remarkable findings. This is the first case describing changes in the clinical signs, MRI findings, and CSF analysis of FMUE with long-term follow-up.

Administration of Strobilanthes crispus in an Angora Cat with Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease

The occurrence of feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUD) in Indonesia has not been widely reported. However, the incidence of the disease has increased due to dietary cat patterns. The diet habitually consists of commercial dry food only, without wet food, such as meat. FLUD often affects certain breeds of cats. Surgical therapy is the first option to remove kidney stones; however, rural areas in Indonesia often lack animal surgical facilities. This condition requires alternative therapies to cure the disease. A one-year-old male Angora cat was brought to Rumah Satwa veterinary clinic in Tanah Datar, Indonesia, for examination, with a history of urination difficulties or dysuria, pain in the abdomen when being handled, and lack of desire to mate. A macroscopic examination of urine showed a cloudy and dense appearance. The ultrasound examination revealed a stone (struvite) and a thickening of the urinary bladder wall. The angora cat was diagnosed with obstructive FLUD caused by urolithiasis. A capsule containing 125 mg Keji Beling (Strobilanthes crispus, Bl) extract was administered to the cat once daily to aid the struvite stone dissolution. Keji Beling is a herbal plant easily found in Indonesia and used to treat human kidney stones. After 32 days of therapy, the clinical condition of the cat improved. The ultrasound examination did not find any stones left in the bladder. In conclusion, based on local wisdom, Keji Beling leaves can potentially be an alternative therapy for FLUD in Angora cats with certain conditions.

Determination of blood heavy metal concentrations and oxidant-antioxidant capacities in Angora cats at different age and gender

This study was conducted to investigate heavy metal concentrations and oxidative status of plasma and erythrocytes in Angora cats at different ages and gender. Sixteen young (less than 1 year old) and 14 adult (1–6 years old) cats were also grouped according to gender as male (n = 17) and female (n = 13). The separated plasma samples from cat’s blood were analyzed for selected heavy metals and total oxidant and antioxidant capacities (TOC and TAC) and calculated for oxidative stress index (OSI). The erythrocyte hemolysates were also evaluated for malondialdehyde (MDA), and super oxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). Results of the study showed that most of the measured metals were not varied statistically according to age or gender. However, adult cats had significantly (P<0.01) higher Cu and lower Fe levels compared to young cats. Plasma levels of TOC, TAC and OSI, and erythrocyte MDA concentrations in young cats were significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of adults. While the SOD activity was decreased by the age, GPX activity was increased (P<0.05). However, the activity of CAT was changed by only gender, which was higher in males (P<0.01). In conclusion, metals, especially trace elements, are required for many kinds of physiological processes and the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes. Therefore, it can be suggested that the periodic measurement of metals and the addition of common antioxidant supplements to the diet of adult Angora cats will support weakening antioxidant mechanisms by age.

Distribution of cytoskeletal proteins in the cat testis during the pre-pubertal and post-pubertal periods

Cytoskeletal proteins not only define the shape of cells, but also have critical roles in their proliferation, migration and motility, as well as in the establishment and maintenance of tissue organization and integrity. Furthermore, these proteins influence the physiological processes of the male reproductive system and are found in the structure of some cells. This study aimed to determine differences between the pre- and post-pubertal periods for the localization and distribution of actin, desmin, vimentin and cytokeratin-18 in the testes, epididymides and ductus deferentes of Persian and Turkish Angora and Van cats, using immunohistochemistry. The study material was grouped as belonging to the pre-pubertal and post-pubertal periods. The tissue samples of both groups were subjected to routine histological processing and embedded in paraffin. Serial sections cut from the paraffin-embedded tissue blocks were immunohistochemically stained with the indirect streptavidin-biotin complex method. Immunohistochemical findings demonstrated that there was no difference between the pre- and post-pubertal periods for the staining intensity and distribution of the proteins actin, vimentin, desmin and cytokeratin-18 in Persian and Turkish Angora and Van cats. On the other hand, differences were detected between the pre- and post-pubertal periods for the cellular expression and localization of these proteins in the testes, epididymides and ductus deferentes. Thus, the study results suggest that, based on the expression of actin, desmin, vimentin and cytokeratin-18 in the testes, epididymides and ductus deferentes during both periods, these molecular factors could have a contributory role in the development of the male reproductive system and the regulation of its physiological processes.

Clinical and Histological Aspects of Cryptorchidism in Dogs and Cats

This study was aimed to investigate the incidence of cryptorchidism among dogs and tomcats were undergoing elective neutering. Cryptorchidism is diagnosed through clinical examination, palpation of the scrotum, and the ultrasonic finding of the retained testicles within the inguinal or the abdomen. Eleven cases (11.22%) of cryptorchid were identified from a total of 98 cases (42 dogs and 56 tomcats) that underwent elective castration. It was found that different breeds of dogs and tomcats were affected, including Maltese dog, Anatolian shepherd dog, Terrier dogs, Persian cat, Turkish angora cat, and the Domestic Shorthair cat. The locations of cryptorchid testis were varied from inguinal (3.06%) to intra-abdominal (8.16%) origin with either unilateral (10.2%) or bilateral (1.02%) of retained testis and their ratio was 3:3. The histopathological findings of the cryptorchid testes were showed a decrease and disorganization of the seminiferous tubules with severe hypo-spermatogenesis in both species, dogs, and tomcats. In addition, there was also a typical Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS), which was characterized by larger nuclei and atrophy of many tubules, which were completely replaced by hyaline substances. In conclusion, the occurrence of cryptorchidism in Anatolian Shepherd dogs and the Domestic Shorthair cats were first documented in the literature. Although, no significant differences were found in the incidence of cryptorchidism in both species.

Age-and sex-related changes in selected hematological parameters, lipid peroxidation and erythrocytes osmotic fragility of Turkish Angora cats

This study was conducted to investigate the changes in selected hematological parameters, lipid peroxidation and osmotic fragility of erythrocytes in Angora cats depending on the age and gender. For this purpose, the blood samples were collected from 9 young and 14 adult cats which also classified as male (n=12) and female (n=11). Following hematological analysis, samples were washed with PBS by centrifugation and 10% hematocrit suspension was prepared from the erythrocytes pellet for osmotic fragility test. The concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) was also measured from lysed erythrocyte to determine lipid peroxidation level. Red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin, and hematocrit were high in adults while mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration were high in young cats. Erythrocyte MDA level was also higher in adult cats than in young cats. There was no significance in these parameters between male and female cats. Findings of fragility tests were showed that erythrocytes of young and male cats were more susceptible to hypotonic NaCl solutions than those of adult and female cats, respectively. It was concluded that erythrocytes related parameters in Angora cats changed depending on the age rather than gender except stability of RBCs.

Effect of kefir consumption on intestinal microbiota and some blood parameters inAngora cats

Probiotics are one of the best alternatives to improve gut health. Kefir, which was discovered in the North Caucasus centuries ago, is still consumed frequently today due to its health benefits. Its impacts on the gastrointestinal system have begun to be investigated in animals. In this study, we focused to examine the effect of kefir on intestinal microbiota, some hematological parameters, and fecal quality in Angora cats to provide preliminary data regarding the hypothesis of its use as an alternative probiotic food supplement. Commercial kefir was given orally (30 mL/kg) to seven healthy Angora cats for 14 days. On day 0 and day 14, fresh feces and blood of the cats were collected. The results showed that two-week kefir consumption significantly increased the number of total mesophilic aerobic bacteria, lactococci, lactobacilli, and yeast in the gut microbiota (p < 0.05). Also, a significant decrease was recorded in the number of enterococci (p < 0.05). Measured hematological parameters (WBC, RBC, HGB, PCV, MCV, MCH, MCHC, PLT) were not affected during the experiment (p > 0.05). Among the biochemical parameters (ALT, AST, TP, TG, TC, HDL, LDL, LDH, K, Ca, Na) only a decrement in the activity of LDH, and an increment in K were observed after two-week of kefir consumption (p < 0.05). Additionally, no significant changes were recorded in the body weights, body condition scores, fecal scores, and fecal water contents (p > 0.05). Daily kefir consumption positively altered the intestinal microbiota of Angora cats by increasing the total mesophilic aerobic bacteria, lactococci, lactobacilli, and yeast. Moreover, no detrimental effect was observed in the blood parameters, body condition scores, and fecal quality. Therefore, it could be suggested that including kefir in Angora cats? daily diets can improve their health conditions.

Laporan Kasus: Penanganan Dipylidiasis pada Kucing Anggora dengan Praziquantel

Dipylidiasis is a tapeworm disease that attacks cats and dogs and classified as a zoonotic disease because it can be transmitted to humans. A 2 years old female angora cat weighing 3 kg was examined with complaints of bloody diarrhea for 2 weeks. The results of native faecal examination showed the presence of D. caninum worm eggs. Animals diagnosed with dipylidiasis. Cat cases were treated by administering 50 mg praziquantel therapy with the recommendation of 1 tablet for 10 kg/BW orally. In conclusion, the treatment of dipylidiasis by administering praziquantel therapy has proven to be effective.

Bilateral Atrioventricular Valve Dysplasia in a Middle Aged Turkish Angora Cat: A Case Report

Bilateral Atrioventricular Valve Dysplasia in a Middle Aged Turkish Angora Cat: A Case Report

Multiple eosinophilic granulomas after vaccination and antiparasitic treatment in a 2-month-old Turkish Angora cat

Multiple eosinophilic granulomas after vaccination and antiparasitic treatment in a 2-month-old Turkish Angora cat

Breed differences of heritable behaviour traits in cats

Cat domestication and selective breeding have resulted in tens of breeds with major morphological differences. These breeds may also show distinctive behaviour differences; which, however, have been poorly studied. To improve the understanding of feline behaviour, we examined whether behavioural differences exist among cat breeds and whether behaviour is heritable. For these aims, we utilized our extensive health and behaviour questionnaire directed to cat owners and collected a survey data of 5726 cats. Firstly, for studying breed differences, we utilized logistic regression models with multiple environmental factors and discovered behaviour differences in 19 breeds and breed groups in ten different behaviour traits. Secondly, the studied cat breeds grouped into four clusters, with the Turkish Van and Angora cats alone forming one of them. These findings indicate that cat breeds have diverged not only morphologically but also behaviourally. Thirdly, we estimated heritability in three breeds and obtained moderate heritability estimates in seven studied traits, varying from 0.4 to 0.53, as well as phenotypic and genetic correlations for several trait pairs. Our results show that it is possible to partition the observed variation in behaviour traits into genetic and environmental components, and that substantial genetic variation exists within breed populations.

Use of imatinib mesylate in a cat with gastrointestinal stromal tumour

A two-year-old, Turkish Angora, neutered male cat was evaluated for acute onset of melena and anaemia. A mass was identified in the duodenum and was diagnosed as gastrointestinal stromal tumour...

Development of dental hygiene gum for cats considering their anatomical features of dentition.

The purpose of this study was to develop effective dental hygiene chews for cats based on the anatomical features of the dentition and patterns of chewing motion. All cats were volunteered for dental prophylaxis followed by dental impressions using yellow stone and alginate under general anesthesia. Twenty parameters related to dentition were defined in order to compare dental impressions using digital caliper. For the chewing motion study, patterns of chewing motion were identified based on recordings made with a digital camera. Ten cats (4 domestic shorthairs, 2 Russian blues, 1 American shorthair, 1 Persian, 1 Turkish Angora, and 1 Devon Rex) were recruited for the study. The parameters related to teeth and oral size were similar among the studied cats. Chewing motion can be described as more of a guillotine-like motion rather than a crushing motion, with cats chewing 3–7 times before swallowing. The chewing pattern of cats involves shearing for a short period of time followed by immediate swallowing. Therefore, the overall size of the dental hygiene chew could be determined based on the measurement of the oral size for inducing chewing. The surface details of the dental hygiene chew could be designed for prevention and removal of dental calculus and plaque in cats considering the anatomical teeth parameters. Dental hygiene chews customized for cats considering the different anatomical features of their teeth might be effective for oral care.

Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology of Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma (Giant Cell Type) in an Angora Cat

This case study presents the radiological, cytopathological and histopathological description of the giant cell type of a malignant fibrous histiocytoma on the back of a 9-year-old female Angora cat. Latero-lateral and ventro-dorsal thoracic radiographs was taken to evaluate invasion. Radiologically the mass was invasive but had not invaded the bone. Under general anaesthesia, cytopathological samples were taken from the tumour, using the Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) technique, and were later stained with May-Grünwald Giemsa solution. The surgically extracted biopsy sample was subjected to routine tissue processing and stained with Haematoxylin-Eosin (HE). The biopsy material was 8x6x6 cm and 95 g, was covered by skin, multilobulary appearance and hard consistency. Cross-sections was greyish white and necrotic appearance. Cytopathological examination revealed the presence of numerous histiocyte- or fibrocyte-like cells of anaplastic character and pleomorphic shape, which were associated with giant cells with multiple nuclei and a broad and vacuolar cytoplasm. Histological examination demonstrated the presence of histiocyte-like atypical cells arranged in the form of swirls and extending in various directions, or numerous giant cells with 8 to 12 nuclei and a broad cytoplasm situated in between connective tissue cells.

Turkish Van Cat and Turkish Angora Cat: A Review

Turkish Van Cat and Turkish Angora Cat: A Review

Aggressive osteoblastoma of the cervical vertebrae in a Turkish Angora cat

Aggressive osteoblastoma is a type of bone tumor rarely reported in veterinary literature. Osteoblastoma may be misdiagnosed as an osteosarcoma, which is a well-understood malignant bone tumor. Owing to poor prognosis, animals diagnosed with osteosarcoma are not always treated. In the present case, we diagnosed the tumor as aggressive osteoblastoma on the basis of macroscopic, microscopic, radiographic, and immunohistologic findings. The patient was treated via resections of the osteoblastoma and lived without metastasis for 3 years. This is the first reported case of aggressive feline osteoblastoma of the cervical vertebrae and will be useful for diagnosing and managing aggressive osteoblastoma.

Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy in a Cat with Hepatic Lipidosis

A Turkish angora cat with a one-week history of anorexia and vomiting was diagnosed with hepatic lipidosis. During hospitalization and treatment, the cat suddenly showed respiratory-related clinical signs, including coughing and dyspnea, 13 days after initial diagnosis. Due to the poor response to treatment, the patient was euthanized at the owner’s request. A postmortem histopathologic examination of the cat’s heart showed dilation and wall thinning of the right atrium and ventricle, with fibrofatty infiltration corresponding to an arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). This is a case report of ARVC concurrent with hepatic lipidosis in a cat; both diseases are related to disturbances in lipid metabolism.

The Domestic Livestock Resources of Turkey: Social Aspects, Genetic Resources and Conservation of Companion Animal Cats (Felis Catus)

Located at the boundaries of Europe and Asia, Turkey is home to an extraordinary variety of domestic animal species and breeds that include bees, camels, cats, cattle, dogs, domestic fowl, donkeys, ducks, goats, geese, horses, mules, pigs, rabbits, sheep, silkworms, water buffalo and several species of domestic birds (partridge, pheasant, pigeon and ostrich). In addition to the clearly distinct Angora and Van cat breeds a short-haired nondescript cat breed is found throughout Turkey. As well as private household ownership, Angora cats have been raised at Ankara Zoo which has belonged to the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock since 1939. The Van cat is raised at the Van Cat Research Centre at Yuzuncu Yil University in Van Province which also has a small clinic for the cats. There is a risk of extinction for the Angora and Van breeds but none for the short-haired nondescript type. This paper reviews social aspects, the genetic resources and conservation status of the native cat breeds of Turkey.

Changes in selected hematology and serum biochemistry in Turkish Angora cats (Felis catus) during growth period

The purpose of the present study was to determine the changes in selected hematology and serum biochemistry of Angora cats (Felis catus) during growth period. A total of 32 Angora cats (16 adults and 16 kittens) were used in this study. Blood samples were collected from the animals, and were analyzed for white blood cells, red blood cells, hemoglobin, packed cell volume, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, granulocytes, monocytes and lymphocytes numbers. In the serum, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatinine kinase (CK), total cholesterol, glucose, triglyceride, urea, creatinine, total protein, albumin, Ca, Mg, Pi levels were determined. Monocyte level was found higher, and ALP, LDH, CK activities and Pi levels were lower in adult cats as compared to the kittens. MCV was lower and GGT and AST activities, and glucose level were higher in kittens of 1.5-3 months old than in kittens of >3 months. Concentrations of total cholesterol and Mg were higher in kitten (1.5-3 months old) than in adult cats. In conclusion, age related effects on hematological and biochemical blood parameters have been determined for the first time in Angora cats.