Veterinary Medicine Faculty Research Articles

Case of Toxocariasis in a Cat Presented to a Private Veterinary Clinic

In this study, a case of zoonotic toxocariasis seen in a cat brought to a private veterinary clinic is presented. The case data were obtained from a 2.5 kg male tabby cat, aged 6 months, who was presented to a private veterinary clinic. Following the examination of the cat, vomiting was observed as a side effect of the anaesthetic administered during the eye removal surgery. Macroscopic parasites were detected in the stomach contents. In order to identify the species, the parasite was placed in a tube filled with 70% alcohol. The Toxocara cati was later identified microscopically at the Parasitology laboratory of Selçuk University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. Our case report contains useful information since toxocariasis infection in cats is rarely seen in the stomach contents and has zoonotic importance. This case is presented with the hope of raising awareness, especially among veterinarians working in animal hospitals and small animal clinics.

Stethoscopes as vectors of staphylococci at a veterinary teaching hospital

The issue of nosocomial infections, or healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), remains a significant concern in healthcare settings worldwide. In recent times, there has been growing attention towards medical devices, notably stethoscopes, as potential vectors for pathogen transmission. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of Staphylococcal contamination on stethoscopes used by students and staff at Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa Faculty of Veterinary Medicine’s animal hospital. Furthermore, it gathered information about stethoscope usage habits, cleaning practices, handwashing routines, participants' knowledge about nosocomial infections, and their interest in learning more about these infections and stethoscope hygiene. The analysis of 50 stethoscope samples revealed that 27 (54%) were contaminated with one or more Staphylococci. The isolated 30 Staphylococcus spp. included Staphylococcus epidermidis (n=17; 56.7%), Staphylococcus hominis (n=10; 33.3%), Staphylococcus pasteuri (n=1; 3.3%), Staphylococcus capitis (n=1; 3.3%), and Staphylococcus schleiferi (n=1; 3.3%). Notably, the absence of the highly pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus in all samples provides some reassurance. However, the presence of various Staphylococcus spp. raises concerns due to their pathogenic potential. These findings align with previous research on stethoscope contamination, emphasizing the persistent problem of bacterial colonization on these crucial medical devices. Despite variations in bacterial prevalence among studies, Staphylococcus spp. consistently emerge as common contaminants, emphasizing the need for comprehensive stethoscope hygiene protocols in veterinary healthcare settings. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report describing the vector potential of stethoscopes in a veterinary setting within Turkey. The study suggests the necessity for further research, taking a proactive approach to tackle the challenges of nosocomial infections. This would enable the development of strategies to ensure a safer healthcare environment for patients and healthcare providers.

Possible Unilateral Iris Melanoma in a Cat

A tumor known as feline iris melanoma has a high chance of metastasizing and is characterized by multifocal, golden yellow to brown pigmented patches in the iris. Despite the fact that cats of any age can develop this tumor, there is no breed or sex-specific susceptibility. The case material was a female Russian blue cat that was neutered at the age of 5, weighed 4.5 kg, and was taken to the surgical clinic of the faculty of veterinary medicine at the University of Siirt. According to the patient's medical history, a brown spot-like pigmented region had developed on the right eye's iris two months prior, and up until the cat was brought to the clinic, the pigmented patches in the iris grew in number and size. As a result of routine clinical examination, tonometry, haematological and biochemical examinations, uveal cysts and iris freckles with similar clinical symptoms were eliminated and it was concluded that the pathological condition was iris melanoma. In addition, it was determined that melanoma foci were involved only on the iris surface in line with the available possibilities and did not metastasise to other tissues and organs of the eye. Since the disease was in the initial stage, the general condition of the patient was good after clinical examinations and the owner of the patient did not accept enucleation, it was decided not to perform any intervention. The owner of the patient was instructed that during the follow-up phase, the foci should be checked and the patient should continue to be under supervision. When the patient was summoned back for a follow-up examination three months later, it was decided to undertake enucleation in case any potential melanoma foci or metastases had grown in other eye tissues or organs.

First Isolation of Bacillus licheniformis from Bovine Mastitis in Iran.

Bacillus licheniformis is a gram-positive, endospore-forming, saprophytic and facultative anaerobe that is resistant to heat and environmental conditions. This study was the first to isolate and confirm B. licheniformis as a cause of bovine mastitis in Iran. In the summer of 2020, 105 samples of mastitic milk were collected from dairy farms around Tehran and sent to the microbiology laboratory of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Tehran. The bacterial pathogens were identified using selective and differential culture media and confirmed by PCR to contain the toxin synthetase genes licA, licB and licC in mastitic isolates of B. licheniformis. Resistance patterns to 19 antibiotics were determined for two isolates of B. licheniformis. Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were identified as the most important organisms in the samples. B. licheniformis was isolated from the two samples containing all three genes. Both isolates were resistant to streptomycin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, cefixime, ampicillin, bacitracin, clindamycin, and gentamicin. B. licheniformis was reported for the first time in Iran as a cause of bovine mastitis with clinical symptoms. The first isolation of toxin-producing strains of B. licheniformis from mastitic cows in Iran raises concerns about the safety of dairy products. In principle, selected strains with toxigenic potential should not be used as feed additives and animal feed. However, whole genome sequencing is proposed to search for genes coding for toxins.

Holştayn İneklerde Kırmızı Işıkla Gece Aydınlatmasının Melatonin ve Süt Kalite Parametrelerine Etkileri

In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effects of red lighting on blood and milk melatonin levels, and milk quality. The experiment was carried out on 6 lactating Holstein Dairy cows, which were being reared at the Hümeyra Özgen Research and Application Farm, affiliated to Selcuk University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. After a control period of 15 days in which night lighting was not applied (control group), night lighting was provided by LED bulbs emitting red light with a wavelength of 652 nm during the following 15-day trial period (experimental group). On days 5th, 10th and 15th days of the control and experimental groups, milk and blood samples were taken at the 06:00 am and at 06:00 pm.Serum and milk melatonin concentrations in the morning of the control, on days 5th, 10th and 15th; were 8.64±1.4, 7.02±0.97, 8.71±2.3, and 5.01±0.92, 5.23±0.35 , 3.93±0.81pg/ml, respectively while control evening group were respectively 8.59±1.8,7.53±2.14,8.35±0.94, 6.91±1.73, 6.8±1.27. It was obtained as 3.67±0.97 pg/ml. Serum and milk melatonin levels in the trial morning group were 10.93±2.06, respectively, on the same days; 15.37±2.6; 11.25±1.71 and 2.97±0.64; 5.7±1.06; While it was measured as 3.33±0.73 pg/ml, it was 14.83±3.11 in the trial evening group; 14.5±3.57; 12.95±4.09 and 4.42±0.61; 2.51±0.56; It was obtained as 2.48±0.79 pg/ml.It was observed that serum and milk melatonin levels and milk parameters were not adversely affected in the use of red LED lamps (652 nm) at night for 12h.

EVALUATION OF CANINE TOXOPLASMOSIS SEROPREVALENCE IN ANIMALS FROM GREATER VITÓRIA-ES

Toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis of worldwide distribution, and dogs, despite intermediate hosts, participate in the epidemiological chain of transmission, both to other animals and humans. As an epidemiological surveillance activity, a serological research was carried out for antibodies of the IgG class anti-Toxoplasma gondii in serum samples obtained from 150 dogs, from January to March 2022, belonging to the serum bank of the Veterinary Clinical Laboratory, of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of UVV, Vila Velha-ES. The indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT-IgG) was used, evaluating the results in relation to the titers obtained, age, and gender. Sixteen (10.66%) of the samples were positive, with variable titers between 16 and 256, 15 (93.75%) with title 16, 11 (68.75%) 64, and three (18.75%) 256. Regarding gender, of the 16 positive animals, nine (56.25%) were females, and seven (43.75%) were males. Related to age, positive animals ranged from three to 15 years, and animals with higher titles were between 10 and 12 years old. It is concluded that despite the low seroprevalence, T. gondii dispersion occurs in the studied region and that surveillance measures should be established to control infection and disease in the canine and human populations.

THE DEPARTMENT OF PHYSIOLOGY, PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY'S PERSONAL EXPERIENCE IN REMOTE LEARNING CONDITIONS

In the conditions of a remote form of education, the situation is significantly complicated by the lack of personal communication. Higher education students passively act as observers. This significantly reduces their interest in studying disciplines. The task of the teaching staff of our department is to use our pedagogical experience to keep the quality of the educational process. The use of specially developed hardware and software complexes, STEM technologies, work in STREAM mode, the use of various services and platforms for training help to create a limitless space for achieving the goal. Involving students to participate in scientific clubs, seminars, webinars, panel discussions, creating reports and presentations at scientific events, participating in scientific conferences helps higher education students to take an active life position. With the support of teachers and the use of the latest educational technologies, positive results in education should be expected from the students. The teachers of the Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biochemistry of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Odesa State Agrarian University (OSAU) have focused their attention on improving the quality of the educational process, incorporating interactive and multimedia teaching methods into the usual learning process and are ready to share their experience.

Gelatin Zymography of Major Proteases in Exosomes of Leishmania major Promastigotes.

Enzymatic digestion of extra cellular matrix proteins by proteinases of Leishmania promastigotes is a complex process. Hence, studies on functional proteomics of these enzymes can help select these enzymes as possible vaccine candidates or selecting candidates for chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Several proteolytic enzymes are involved in virulence of Leishmania spp. These enzymes are mostly serine, cysteine and metalloproteases. We aimed to detect proteases in Leishmania promastigote exosomes. Serine, cysteine and metalloproteases were investigated in exosomes and lysate of L. major promastigote using gelatin zymography. The study was carried out in the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran, in 2021. Zymography findings of metalloproteinases showed transparent bands, including a 63-kDa glycoprotein (GP63). This glycoprotein is a major surface metalloproteinase. In addition, transparent bands belonged to serin proteases and cathepsin were demonstrated in gels associated to Leishmania promastigote lysate and exosomes. Several metalloproteases, serin proteases and cathepsins were shown in promastigote lysate and exosomes of L. major, which could purified and used as fractions for immunodiagnostic.

A Research on the Online Teaching Experiences of Ankara University Veterinary Faculty Academics

In this study, it has aimed to determine the perceptions of veterinary faculty academics of Ankara University regarding their online teaching experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic. The study has included 92 academics who provided theoretical and/or practical courses via online teaching in Ankara University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (AUFVM). The data of the study has collected with a 21-item questionnaire. The questionnaire has basic questions such as the quality of the courses given, the active participation of the students in the courses, experienced technological problems during their education, and whether they consider online teaching effective. Academics in clinical sciences gave negative answers to the question about the sustainability of online teaching at a higher rate than the academics in basic sciences (p=0.016). Only all academics who think online teaching has no disadvantages stated that it provides effective learning (p=0.001). Academics who think online teaching provides effective teaching mostly want to continue online, while those with opposing considerations “generally” prefer to continue online or can “sometimes” continue (p

CHRONIC RHINITIS IN CAT

A rescue female cat named Hanji aged 2 years with a body weight of 2.3 kg was examined at the Veterinary Internal Medicine Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Udayana University. The purpose of the study was to diagnose, treat and evaluate the success of therapy in a case cat. Based on anamnesis, the cat had recurrent sneezing and nasal discharge and the cat had experienced eye pain so that the cat's left eye was broken and lost. On physical examination, there were oozing spots on both nostrils, sneezing and oozing. On palpation the right and left lymphonoduses were swollen, and on auscultation of the lungs there was stridor or abnormal lung sounds in general. Skin and nails, limbs, musculoskeletal, circulation, nerves, urogenital, and mucosa were normal. Supporting examination by conducting hematological examination, test kit, and isolation of bacterial and fungal identification. The test kit results showed that the case cat was negative for calicivirus infection or rhinotracheitis. The case cat was diagnosed with chronic rhinitis with a prognosis of fausta from the series of examinations performed. The therapy given to the case cat consisted of anti-inflammatory methylprednisolone (4 mg preparation, given orally (PO) with ½ tab once a day for 5 days), antibiotic doxycycline (100 mg preparation, given PO once a day for 6 days with ¼ tab, and supportive therapy in the form of vitamins and feed supplementation. On the 8th day of therapy showed success in treating chronic rhinitis and the eyes had begun to dry out. After supporting examinations such as negative test kit results showed no other indications such as Feline Calicivirus (FCV) or Feline Herpesvirus (FHV) disease so that the case animal was diagnosed with chronic rhinitis due to Chlamydia felis infection. Advice to owners if there are animals experiencing similar symptoms, immediately take them to the veterinarian for treatment so that the infection does not continue and severe and always maintain animal hygiene and surroundings.

CHRONIC RHINITIS WITH BRONCHITIS INDICATION IN MALE PERSIAN CAT

Cats are animals that are often used as pets. Cats are prone to disease in their respiratory system. The aim of this study was to examine the case of respiratory tract diseases that often occur in cats are rhinitis and bronchitis, namely inflammation of one or more bronchi. Examination was carried out on a pet at the Veterinary Internal Medicine Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Udayana University. The animal examined was a 4 years old male Persian cat with a body weight of 3 kg, with complaints of runny nose and sneezing. The results of clinical examination showed that the cat experienced bradycardia, hypothermia and bradypnea, swelling and redness of the nose. The results of the hematological examination showed the occurrence of hypochromic macrocytic anemia and radiographic examination showed inflammation of the bronchi which was characterized by a bronchial pattern and also pulmonary vein distension which was indicated by a vascular pattern. Case animals were diagnosed with chronic rhinitis with indications of bronchitis and were treated with the antibiotic azithromycin (10 mg/kg BW; q24 hours; PO), the anti-inflammatory drug meloxicam (0.1 mg/kg BW; q24 hours; PO), and bromhexine hydrochloride (1 mg/ kg BW; q24 hours; PO) and change of feed to wet feed. Treatment of case cats for 10 days showed better clinical conditions as indicated by a decrease in the frequency of sneezing and no runny nose was found. To treat rhinitis, the selection of an antibacterial agent should ideally be based on the results of a culture of runny nose and further observation is needed because an indication of bronchitis was found on the radiographic examination results.

STUDY REGARDING EFFECT OF TRISS-BASED AND CANIPLUS EXTENDERS ON SEVERAL SPERM PARAMETERS IN MEDIUM-LARGE BREED OF DOGS

"The study was carried out in different breeds of dogs owned by breeders in the city of Cluj Napoca. Mostly medium-large breeds were used and all the participating animals have been in good health during the time of acquiring the samples. The purpose of the study was to make a comparison between our own Tris-based extender and the commercial extender CANIPLUS CHILL in accordance with semen parameters with particular regards to motility, progressive motility, and length of survival of the spermatozoa. The evaluation has been done using the Computer Aided Sperm Analysis (CASA) system at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca. We have found that in medium large size breeds the commercia CaniPlus extender have shown better results on the majority of the parameters over the Tris-based extender and has the ability to preserve the integrity is spermatozoa more efficiently over time compared to Tris extender. Furthermore we identified an improvement in all parameters when comparing samples on the day of collection between large breed dogs and medium-large breed dogs in both extender types. Additionally, we had results shown increase values of most parameter in tris extender when comparing it with CaniPlus extender in medium-large size breeds on the day of collection."

Pastern dermatitis outbreak associated with toxigenic and non-toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae and non-toxigenic Corynebacterium ulcerans at a horse stable in Finland, 2021.

Corynebacterium diphtheriae and Corynebacterium ulcerans, when producing toxin, are the cause of diphtheria, a potentially life-threatening illness in humans. Horses (Equus ferus caballus) are known to be susceptible to infection that may manifest clinically on rare occasions. In late 2021 and early 2022, specimens from five horses suffering from pastern dermatitis were cultured at the Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland. C. diphtheriae and/or C. ulcerans were recovered from all of these. This study aimed to (1) analyse the bacterial isolates and (2) describe the outbreak and identify possible sources of the infection and infection routes in the stable. Susceptibility testing, PCR for the tox gene, and Elek test for toxin production in PCR-positive isolates were performed. Whole genome sequencing was also conducted to achieve high-resolution strain typing. An epidemiological survey was done by means of a semi-structured interview of horses' caretaker, and contact tracing was done among people at the stable. Two tox gene-positive, toxin-producing C. diphtheriae belonged to sequence type (ST) 822. Other C. diphtheriae (n = 2, ST828) and C. ulcerans (n = 2, ST325 and ST838) isolates did not carry the tox gene. The epidemiological investigation explored numerous possible routes of transmission, but the definite source of infection was not identified. All established human contacts tested negative for diphtheriae. All horses recovered after antimicrobial treatment. Our study shows that C. diphtheriae and C. ulcerans may readily spread among horses at the same stable and complicate pastern dermatitis infections. These potentially zoonotic bacteria can cause outbreaks even in a country with a very low prevalence. Caretakers should be encouraged to wear gloves and practice good hand hygiene when treating infected skin lesions in horses.

A rare case of an asymptomatic ovarian cystadenoma in a Labrador retriever

In this report, a clinical case of asymptomatic ovarian cystadenoma in a six-year-old, female Labrador retriever is described. The owner reported that the dog had been presented for routine spaying two weeks earlier in another clinic. During the operation, the veterinarian discovered a unilateral mass at the tip of the left uterine horn, which he could not remove and ovariohysterectomy was not performed. The patient was then referred to the Hospital of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria. Transabdominal ultrasonography revealed the presence of a hypoechoic mass in the region of the left ovary (50.0 × 71.8 mm). Complete blood cell counts and biochemical laboratory analysis showed no abnormalities. Caudal midline celiotomy was performed and a substantially altered left ovary was observed. The right ovary and uterus had a normal size and structure. Macroscopic changes in the other abdominal organs were not found. The histopathological finding of the neoplastic formation was characteristic of an ovarian cystadenoma. At follow-up one month after surgery, the dog had fully recovered, and at re-examination six months after surgery, she appeared healthy and all clinical findings were normal.

Investigation of the Prevalence of Digestive System Parasites in Chickens in the Kirikkale Region

Objective: In this study, it was aimed to investigate the prevalence of digestive system parasites in free-range chickens in Kırıkkale region. 
 Material-Method: One hundred (100) faecal samples were taken by visiting the poultry houses where domestic chicken breeding was carried out. Care was taken to ensure that the faecal samples were fresh and not in contact with soil. Each faecal sample was separately placed in plastic containers with lids and delivered to Kırıkkale University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Routine and Epidemiology laboratory under appropriate conditions. The samples were analysed on the same day by native-lugol and Fülleborn flotation technique and the faecal samples which were positive for Eimeria oocyst were sporulated in potassium dichromate for species identification. 
 Result: Sixty-three of the faecal samples (63%) were found to be infected with one or more parasite eggs/oocysts. Eggs/oocysts of one, two and three different parasite species were detected in 42.9%, 39.7% and 11.1% of the faecal samples, respectively. In this study; Eimeria spp. 13%, Ascaridia spp. 6%, Capillaria spp. 12%, Eimeria spp.+Trichostrongylus tenuis, 3%, Eimeria spp. + Ascaridia spp. 3%, Ascaridia spp. + Capillaria spp. 11%, Ascaridia spp. + Capillaria spp. + Eimeria spp. 3%, Capillaria spp, 4%, Eimeria spp. + Ascaridia spp. + Heterakis spp. 1%, Ascaridia spp. + Capillaria spp. + Trichostrongylus spp, + Trichostrongylus tenuis, 1%, Capillaria spp. + Ascaridia spp. + Heterakis spp. 2%, Ascaridia spp. + Heterakis spp. 2% and Trichostrongylus tenuis 1%. Eimeria spp. oocysts were morphologically identified as E. tenella, E. necatrix, E. brunetti, E. mitis and E. maxima. 
 Conclusion: As a result, it is thought that the parasite rate is high due to the fact that the sampled chickens are free-ranging in the natural environment, parasites are more common during the infective periods of parasites or parasite control and treatment are not performed regularly. In order to reduce the presence of parasite infections that cause yield losses, it is recommended that the animals should have access to clean feed and water sources and regular parasitic control and treatment should be carried out.

OTITIS EXTERNA DUE TO COMPLICATION OF OTODECTES CYNOTIS, BACTERIA, AND MALASSEZIA SP. ACCOMPANIED BY SCABIOSIS IN DOMESTIC CAT

Otitis externa is an inflammatory state of the external ear canal due to the colonization of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, or parasites). Scabiosis in cats is a highly contagious disease caused by the Notoedres cati mite. The purpose of this article is to provide information on the diagnosis, treatment, and therapeutic evaluation of otitis externa with scabiosis in a local cat. The case animal was a 2-year-old female Oren, weighing 2.75 kg and with orange, black, and white hair. The cat was brought to the Teaching Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Udayana University with complaints of frequent scratching of the right and left ears since 1 month ago. On physical examination, dark brown cerumen was found in the right and left ear canals. In the supporting examination, ear swab found Otodectes cynotis mite cytology ear cerumen observed the presence of bacteria in the form of cocci and bacilli, and Malassezia sp. While in the examination of skin scrapings found Notoedres cati mite. Based on anamnesis, clinical examination and supporting examination, the case cat was diagnosed with bilateral otitis externa and scabiosis with a prognosis of fausta. For the treatment of otitis, the therapy given was topical treatment using antiparasitic permethrine, antibiotic neomycin sulfate, antifungal nystatin and anti-inflammatory triamnicolone acetonide given once a day for 7 days. For the treatment of scabiosis, the therapy given is Ivermectin injection at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg BW subcutaneously twice administered at 14-day intervals. As symptomatic therapy, diphenhydramine was given at a dose of 1 mg/kg BW intramuscularly, followed by diphenhydramine HCL orally at a dose of 2 mg/kg BW given twice a day for 7 days as an antihistamine to treat pruritus. Topical therapy was also given by bathing with sulfur soap twice a week for two weeks. Evaluation was carried out on day 10 where the case cat showed a continuously improving condition characterized by the case cat rarely scratching the ears, the crusts on the skin had begun to thin, and the parts that were initially alopecia had begun to grow hair.

HELMINTHIASIS IN DOMESTIC MALE CAT

Helminthiasis is also known as parasitic helminth infectious disease. Gastrointestinal helminth parasitic infection is a common disease diagnosed in cats. Some types are known to be zoonotic. The writing of this article aims to report cases of helminthiasis in cats based on history, clinical symptoms, physical examination, and supporting examinations. A four-year-old cat was examined at the Teaching Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Udayana University with complaints of anorexia and diarrhea like paste to yellowish liquid. In feces found the presence of two types of adult worms. Checking the status of the presens obtained Capillary Refill Time (CRT) of more than 2 seconds and an increase in breathing frequency. On physical examination, it was found that the abdomen of the case cat had a slight distention and there was residual feces attached to the anus. When the cat's abdomen is palpated, it shows signs of discomfort and sounds of borborygmus when occulted. Anemis oral mucosa, anus, and conjunctiva. The results of fecal examination with the native method found Toxocara cati worm eggs. The results of hematological examination showed that the case cat had hypochromic microcytic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Case cats were diagnosed with helminthiasis with the discovery of eggs of Toxocara cati worms, and adult worms of nematodes and cestodes in feces. The prognosis of this case is fausta. Therapy is carried out by administering anthelmintic drugs containing fenbendazole, pyrantel pamoat, and praziquantel (1 tablet / 10 kg body weight, PO) twice with a repeat interval of 14 days and vitamin B complex (1 tablet, PO) for 7 days. Treatment with Caniverm tablets gave good results characterized by significant improvement in clinical condition, fecal intensity from grade 6 to grade 5, and no worm eggs were found on native examination and adult worms on macroscopic examination of feces. Regular deworming of cats is important, and make sure the cat is free of ectoparasites which are intermediate hosts of disease agents.

ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ІНТЕГРАЦІЇ АВТЕНТИЧНИХ МАТЕРІАЛІВ У ПРОЦЕС ВИКЛАДАННЯ ІНОЗЕМНОЇ МОВИ ЗА ПРОФЕСІЙНИМ СПРЯМУВАННЯМ

The article examines and analyses the methodological literature on the aspect of using authentic materials in foreign language classes at a non-native language higher education institution. A brief overview and characteristics of the main types of authentic materials are given; the importance of their use in teaching a foreign language in a non-language institution of higher education is substantiated on the example of the discipline «English for professional purposes» taught in the first year of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the State Biotechnological University of Kharkiv. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of methodological work with audio/video material, which is traditionally carried out in three stages: preparatory, while reading/watching or demonstrative (direct work with video/audio material) and after reading/watching or post-demonstrative. As an example, the authors present their own development of a lesson based on authentic video with the use of a large number of exercises to activate the main types of speech activity: listening, reading, speaking and writing. It has been proven that authentic materials are an important component not only in learning but also in teaching a foreign language at all levels, as they arouse great interest and motivation in students, which is a significant contribution to achieving the learning objectives of the programme. However, when developing teaching materials based on authentic texts/videos, teachers should focus on the general level of language proficiency among students. The results of this study prove that the integration of authentic materials into the EFL classroom has a positive impact on the development of EFL students' speaking skills. Authentic audio/video materials have great potential for solving learning and educational tasks, but only if the teacher organises the lesson properly. Being highly informative, authenticity creates an atmosphere of real language communication, and therefore can ensure students' successful perception of a foreign language and increase their motivation to learn the language. Keywords: authentic materials, speaking skills, English for professional purposes, audio/video material, and language communication.

Abstracts of the 47th Symposium on Cuniculture, ASESCU

The 47th Congress of the Spanish Association of Cuniculture (ASESCU) was held in León (Castile and Leon, Spain) on the 31st of May and 1st of June. The event was organised by ASESCU and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of León. Four main lectures were delivered. The first two of these lectures delved into the past, present and future perspectives of cuniculture in Castile and Leon. The third talk focused on the use of state-of-theart technologies in animal production for precision livestock farming. Lastly, the fourth lecture provided an overview of the current status of Staphylococcus aureus studies and introduced novel tools for its control. Moreover, two round tables were conducted to examine the current state of sustainability in rabbitries, as well as the effects of implementation of the new antimicrobial laws. Throughout the congress, a total of 21 oral communications and two posters were presented in working sessions on genetics, sustainability, nutrition, reproduction, pathology, welfare and products. The event was attended by approximately 160 participants from different European and American countries. The abstracts of contributions are reported below.

Determining Hopelessness Levels and Related Factors in Veterinary Students.

This study addresses the level of hopelessness experienced by last-year students at a faculty of veterinary medicine. Moreover, it identifies the factors behind this emotion. A face-to-face questionnaire was administered to 238 last-year students from 2017 to 2021. The questionnaire included questions about sociodemographic and other characteristics, along with the Beck Hopelessness Scale. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and chi-square tests. The findings suggested that nearly 60% of the respondents experienced hopelessness. The analysis also revealed a significant relation between hopelessness levels and variables such as year, gender, expected time of first employment, and psychological status. The results suggested that the current state of mental health is worrying for the veterinary faculty students and therefore for the future veterinarians. For this reason, it can be argued that steps to be taken towards a solution in the veterinary education periods are required.