Feline Health Research Articles

Behaviors suggestive of pain: the perceptions and veterinary-related decisions of cat guardians in the USA.

The aim of the study was to assess cat guardians' concern levels and veterinary care decisions pertaining to behaviors that might signify pain before and after receiving brief pain-related educational information. The secondary aims were to evaluate cat guardians' perceptions of the usefulness of a modified version of the Colorado State University Feline Acute Pain Scale (CSU-FAPS) in identifying their cat's pain level, determining if they should take their cat to the veterinarian and describing their cat's pain to their veterinarian. Participants were recruited through Prolific. An electronic survey was created in Qualtrics and distributed via a link offered in Prolific. A total of 362 surveys were completed by participants who resided in the USA and were the primary caretaker of at least one cat. Significant differences between participants' concern levels before and after pain-related educational information were found for two of the three scenarios. Significant differences were found between participants' veterinary-related behavior choices before and after pain-related educational information for all three scenarios. The most common reasons for not seeking immediate veterinary care included elements related to cost and stress for guardian and cat during veterinary visits. The majority of participants reported finding the CSU-FAPS useful for identifying their cat's pain level (90%), determining if they should take their cat to the veterinarian (86%) and describing their cat's pain to their veterinarian (92%). Guardians' interpretations of and subsequent actions to behaviors that might suggest pain carry great implications for feline health and wellbeing. After exposure to brief pain-related educational material, guardians in our study reported significant increases in stated concern related to their cat's change in behavior and intention to seek veterinary care. These findings suggest that even very brief pain-related educational material can have a positive impact on cat guardians' perceptions of feline behavior changes and increase the possibility they obtain appropriate veterinary care.

Effects of Dietary Changes on Feline Obesity in Cats in the United States

Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the effects of dietary changes on feline obesity in cats in the United States. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Recent studies indicate that dietary changes play a crucial role in addressing feline obesity in the United States. Research shows that transitioning to high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets can significantly reduce weight gain and promote healthier body conditions in cats. Additionally, the incorporation of portion control and feeding schedules, alongside the use of specialized weight management foods, has been linked to effective weight loss in overweight felines. The findings also highlight the importance of increasing fiber content in cat diets, which aids in satiety and reduces overall calorie intake. Furthermore, educating pet owners about the impact of treats and the need for regular veterinary consultations can enhance dietary compliance and improve feline health outcomes. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Energy balance theory, obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) theory & behavioral theory of eating may be used to anchor future studies on the effects of dietary changes on feline obesity in cats in the United States. Practically, to address feline obesity, pet owners and veterinarians should adopt several evidence-based dietary strategies. From a policy perspective, several key actions are recommended to address feline obesity on a broader scale.

Video-based compilation of acute pain behaviours in cats.

The aim of this work was to create a video-based compilation of acute pain behaviours in cats as an open-access online resource for training of veterinary health professionals. A database comprising 60 h of video recordings of cats was used. Videos were previously recorded after ethical approval and written client consent forms, and involved cats with different types (eg, medical, surgical, trauma, orofacial) and degrees (eg, from no pain to severe pain) of acute pain, before and after surgery or the administration of analgesia. The database included videos of cats of different coat colours, ages, sex and breeds. Video selection was based on a published ethogram of acute pain behaviours in cats. Videos were selected by one observer (SM) according to their definition and quality, followed by a second round of screening by two observers (SM and PVS). Video editing included a standardised template (ie, watermark and titles). A total of 24 videos (mean length 33 ± 17 s) with each acute pain-related behaviour described in the ethogram were uploaded to an open-access online video-sharing platform (http://www.youtube.com/@Steagalllaboratory) with an individual hyperlink. Videos were provided with a short description of the behaviour for the public. This video-based compilation may promote better training of veterinary health professionals on acute pain assessment while improving feline health and welfare and the understanding of cat behaviours.

Detection of Antibodies against Feline Morbillivirus by Recombinant Matrix Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay.

Feline morbillivirus (FeMV) has been associated with feline health, although its exact role in pathogenesis is still debated. In this study, an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (i-ELISA) targeting a recombinant matrix protein of FeMV (rFeMV-M) was developed and assessed in comparison to a Western blotting (WB) assay. The i-ELISA was evaluated using blood samples from 136 cats that were additionally tested with real-time reverse-transcription PCR (RT-qPCR). The i-ELISA exhibited a sensitivity of 90.1%, specificity of 75.6%, positive predictive value of 88.2%, and negative predictive value of 79.1%. The agreement between i-ELISA and WB analyses was substantial (a κ coefficient of 0.664 with a 95% confidence interval of 0.529 to 0.799). Within the study group, 68.4% (93/136) of the cats were serologically positive in the i-ELISA and 66.9% (91/136) in the WB assay, with 11.8% (11/93) of false positivity with the i-ELISA. However, only 8.1% (11/136) of the cats tested positive for FeMV using RT-qPCR (p < 0.001). The developed i-ELISA proved effective in identifying FeMV-infected cats and indicated the prevalence of FeMV exposure. Combining FeMV antibody detection through i-ELISA with FeMV RT-qPCR could offer a comprehensive method to determine and monitor FeMV infection status. Nevertheless, this assay still requires refinement due to a significant number of false positive results, which can lead to the misdiagnosis of cats without antibodies as having antibodies. This study also provided the first evidence of seroprevalence against FeMV among cat populations in Thailand, contributing valuable insights into the geographic distribution and prevalence of this virus.

Molecular Detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in Cats in Europe and Associated Risk Factors.

Infections with Anaplasma (A.) phagocytophilum in cats seem to be rare. The study aimed to determine whether infections in cats are underestimated and to identify the risk factors for infection. Blood samples of 1015 cats across Europe (2017-2022), sent to IDEXX Laboratories, Germany, were tested for A. phagocytophilum DNA. The influence of the cats' origin on A. phagocytophilum infection was assessed by univariable analysis, while multivariable logistic regression evaluated associations with the cats' sex and age, and the years, and seasonality of the samples' submission. Furthermore, univariable linear regression was used to determine patterns in PCR orders. The number of submitted samples increased significantly during the 6 years (p = 0.042). Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA was detected in 76/1015 of cats (7.5%, 95% CI 6.0-9.3%). Infections were significantly more common in Northern compared to Central (p < 0.001, OR: 8.70) and Southern Europe (p < 0.001, OR: 39.94). A significantly higher likelihood for infections during the summer compared with winter (p = 0.047, OR: 3.13) was found. Bacteremia with A. phagocytophilum in European cats is not uncommon. Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection should be considered an important risk, particularly in Northern Europe. Effective tick prevention is crucial for managing feline health across Europe, not just in the Mediterranean region.

Impacts of Antiretroviral Therapy on the Oral Microbiome and Periodontal Health of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Positive Cats.

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is the domestic cat analogue of HIV infection in humans. Both viruses induce oral disease in untreated individuals, with clinical signs that include gingivitis and periodontal lesions. Oral disease manifestations in HIV patients are abated by highly effective combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), though certain oral manifestations persist despite therapy. Microorganisms associated with oral cavity opportunistic infections in patients with HIV cause similar pathologies in cats. To further develop this model, we evaluated characteristics of feline oral health and oral microbiome during experimental FIV infection over an 8-month period following cART. Using 16S metagenomics sequencing, we evaluated gingival bacterial communities at four timepoints in uninfected and FIV-infected cats treated with cART or placebo. Comprehensive oral examinations were also conducted by a veterinary dental specialist over the experimental period. Gingival inflammation was higher in FIV-infected cats treated with placebo compared to cART-treated cats and controls at study endpoint. Oral microbiome alpha diversity increased in all groups, while beta diversity differed among treatment groups, documenting a significant effect of cART therapy on microbiome community composition. This finding has not previously been reported and indicates cART ameliorates immunodeficiency virus-associated oral disease via preservation of oral mucosal microbiota. Further, this study illustrates the value of the FIV animal model for investigations of mechanistic associations and therapeutic interventions for HIV oral manifestations.

Comparative Analysis of Dental Diseases in Domestic Cats Fed Different Diets in Canada

Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the comparative analysis of dental diseases in domestic cats fed different diets. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: In studying domestic cats on different diets, it's clear that those eating dry kibble or dental-specific foods tend to have better dental health than those on wet diets. Dry food's abrasive texture helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup, whereas wet diets provide less mechanical cleaning, leading to higher risks of dental diseases like periodontal issues and gingivitis. Dental-specific diets with added oral health benefits play a key role in maintaining gum health and reducing plaque. Veterinary advice stresses the importance of these diets along with regular dental care for overall feline health and wellbeing. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social learning theory, health belief model &amp; biological theory of aging may be used to anchor future studies on comparative analysis of dental diseases in domestic cats fed different diets. Veterinarians and pet owners should be informed about the significant role of diet in maintaining feline dental health. Policy initiatives could advocate for clearer labeling and educational campaigns regarding the dental health benefits of specific cat diets.

Virological and Serological Investigation of Feline Coronavirus Infection in Cats

Feline coronavirus infection is an important viral disease affecting feline health. In this study, feline coronavirus infection (FCoV) in cats was investigated using virological and serological methods. For this purpose, both blood and stool samples were taken from 60 cats aged six months or older with or without clinical signs in different races, sexes, ages and social environments, which were not vaccinated against the aforementioned infection, which were kept as pets at home. Collected blood samples were checked for FCoV antibodies by applying FCoV rapid test-antibody (Ab) and indirect Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) methods. Similarly, stool samples taken from the same cats were checked for the presence of FCoV antigen using the FCoV rapid test-antigen (Ag) method. Of the 60 cat blood serum samples analyzed, 21 (35%) were determined to be seropositive by rapid test-Ab method and 41 (68.33%) by indirect ELISA method. The difference between the antibody positivity rates determined as a result of the indirect ELISA method and the rapid test-Ab method was found to be statistically significant (P˂0.001). The presence of FCoV in 60 stool samples collected was investigated by rapid test-Ag method and 1 sample (1.67%) was found to be antigen positive. As a result of this research, the presence/prevalence of FCoV infection in owned cats was revealed both virologically and serologically. In addition, the indirect ELISA method was found to be more sensitive and reliable than the rapid test-Ab method in the serological diagnosis of FCoV infection.

Understanding the level of animal welfare and associated factors among cat owners in Banyuwangi, Indonesia.

The "Five Freedoms" concept has shaped the development and implementation of animal welfare assessments. This study aimed to analyze the determinants that impact the understanding of animal welfare among individuals who own cats in Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia. Questionnaires and interviews were used in this study to gather data from cat owners. One hundred cat owners in Banyuwangi Regency took part in the study. The classification considered factors such as gender, age, education level, occupation, income, and number of cats. The questionnaire passed both validity and reliability tests and was thus deemed suitable for data measurement. The Chi-square test was employed to investigate relationships within the dataset. A statistically significant correlation (p < 0.05) was established between cat owners' level of education, occupation, monthly household income, and their grasp of animal welfare, with the number of cats in their household being a determinant factor. Some cat owners in Banyuwangi undervalue veterinarians' role in treating and preventing feline health issues. The cat owners' understanding of animal welfare was unaffected by their age or gender. 59% of the cat owners had a low understanding level, 22% had a moderate understanding level, and 19% had a high understanding level. In Banyuwangi Regency, 59% of cat owners lack understanding of animal welfare concerns. An owner's educational background, job, income, and whether they own a cat impact their comprehension of animal welfare principles. Limited awareness of animal welfare and veterinarians' roles exists in Indonesia. It is crucial to educate government officials, veterinarians, and regional leaders about animal welfare for the sake of sustainability. A complete understanding of this topic demands rigorous research, comprehensive studies, and reproducibility. Equally important is effective publicity for the cat population.

A large case-control study indicates a breed-specific predisposition to feline tooth resorption

Tooth resorption (TR) is one of the most common dental diseases of cats. It is a painful condition leading to tooth loss. The etiology of TR remains unclear, but old age, breed, other oral and dental diseases, and environmental factors are suspected predisposing factors. In our study, we used part of the data from the extensive feline health online survey of 8115 Finnish cats. As TR is difficult to detect and as the feline health survey included diagnoses defined by both veterinarians and the owners, we limited our study to a subpopulation of cats diagnosed with oral or dental disease by a veterinarian and had dental examination or surgery under sedation (n=944). We utilized case-control study analysed by multivariable logistic regression to determine the risk factors and breed variation of feline TR. The 202 cats diagnosed with TR were defined as TR cases and the remaining 742 cats as controls. The frequency of veterinarian-diagnosed TR was 3.9% in the health survey data (316/8115) and 21% in the subpopulation (202/944). The risk of TR increased with age (14.7% in youngest and 25.3% in oldest age group). Our finding that TR was significantly associated with gingivitis or periodontitis in cats that had also calculus (OR: 2.49 and 3.70, respectively) suggests that inflammatory changes caused by calculus increase the risk of TR. We found that Cornish Rex, European, and Ragdoll are at higher risk for TR (OR: 2.44, 2.98 and 2.90, respectively). Exotic-Persians breed group had lower risk (OR: 0.28). TR was not observed in Turkish van or Devon Rex. The differences between breeds highlight a genetic contribution. In addition, female cats that had food available constantly had significantly less TR than female cats that had feeding times (OR: 0.44). The underlying reasons for this remain unexplained in our study.

Update on feline calicivirus: viral evolution, pathogenesis, epidemiology, prevention and control.

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a prevalent and impactful viral pathogen affecting domestic cats. As an RNA virus, FCV exhibits high mutability and genetic plasticity, enabling its persistence within cat populations. Viral genetic diversity is associated with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from asymptomatic infections and mild oral and upper respiratory tract diseases to the potential development of virulent systemic, and even fatal conditions. This diversity poses distinctive challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases caused by FCV. Over the past four decades, research has significantly deepened understanding of this pathogen, with an emphasis on molecular biology, evolutionary dynamics, vaccine development, and disease management strategies. This review discusses various facets of FCV, including its genomic structure, evolution, innate immunity, pathogenesis, epidemiology, and approaches to disease management. FCV remains a complex and evolving concern in feline health, requiring continuous research to enhance understanding of its genetic diversity, to improve vaccine efficacy, and to explore novel treatment options.

Use of Recombinant Human Interferon Alpha in felines infected with FeLV

Abstract. The feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus that belongs to the genus Gammaretrovirus and exclusively affects felids. The virus carries the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which integrates into the host's DNA permanently, leading to different clinical conditions. The main complications caused by FeLV are hematopoietic neoplasms, immune-mediated disorders, neurological alterations and immunosuppression, among other ailments. The disease has no effective treatment, but antiviral and immunomodulatory drugs are still under trial. Using Recombinant Human Interferon Alpha has shown to be helpful in reducing clinical symptoms and controlling opportunistic infections, increasing the quality and life expectancy of cats infected with FeLV. Retroviruses are among the main causes of death in domestic cats. The lack of knowledge about the disease among guardians and growing cat population in Brazil are helping to increase the number of FeLV cases. Although the disease lacks a universal veterinary medical protocol, there are new studies and information available that can help to treat infected animals, improving their quality of life and expectancy and, in some cases, potentially eliminating the virus. This fact clashes with another reality: outdated professionals who are not familiar with the guidelines for Feline Retrovirus Testing and Management from the AAFP (American Association of Feline Practitioners), an international entity that since 1971 has been working to improve feline health by providing evidence-based guidelines for veterinary practices. Population growth and diseases that exclusively affect the species also highlight the need to include a deeper understanding of feline health in the curricula of undergraduate courses, preparing these future professionals to meet the demand for updated veterinarians with sufficient knowledge to care for the species.

Toxocara cati Infection in Cats (Felis catus): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Introduction: Toxocariasis is an infection caused in canines, felines, humans, and other vertebrates by species of the genus Toxocara, such as T. canis and T. cati. The embryonated eggs of these parasites are the primary means of acquiring the infection for both definitive hosts, dogs and cats, respectively, and for intermediates, such as humans and other vertebrates. When deposited on park soils, environmental contamination becomes a risk to environmental, human, and animal health. Objective: To determine the global prevalence of Toxocara cati in cats (Felis catus). Methods: A systematic review of the literature was carried out in six databases (Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, SciELO and Google Scholar) to evaluate the global prevalence of Toxocara cati in cats, defined by coproparasitological, histological, and molecular techniques. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model to calculate pooled prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). A two-tailed 5% alpha level was used for hypothesis testing. Results: Two hundred and eighty-nine studies were included. The global pooled prevalence of Toxocara cati in cats using coproparasitological methods was 17.0% (95.0% CI: 16.2-17.8%). In the subgroup analysis according to country, Nepal had the highest prevalence of T. cati infection (94.4%; 95% CI 89.7-99.2%). The pooled prevalence of T. cati infection by PCR in four studies was 4.9% (95.0% CI: 1.9-7.9%). Conclusions: This systematic review underscores the need for preventive action against toxocariasis due to its widespread prevalence. The interplay between animal and human health should be emphasised, necessitating measures like deworming cats, hygiene practices, and public education to mitigate risks. Safeguarding feline health can also reduce human transmission, benefiting both species.

Collaborative Metabolism: Gut Microbes Play a Key Role in Canine and Feline Bile Acid Metabolism.

Bile acids, produced by the liver and secreted into the gastrointestinal tract, are dynamic molecules capable of impacting the overall health of dogs and cats in many contexts. Importantly, the gut microbiota metabolizes host primary bile acids into chemically distinct secondary bile acids. This review explores the emergence of new literature connecting microbial-derived bile acid metabolism to canine and feline health and disease. Moreover, this review highlights multi-omic methodologies for translational research as an area for continued growth in veterinary medicine aimed at accelerating microbiome science and medicine as it pertains to bile acid metabolism in dogs and cats.

Ovariohysterectomy with hook technique: A surgical approach for population control and feline health - Case Report

Ovariohysterectomy with hook technique: A surgical approach for population control and feline health - Case Report

UNVEILING PRECISION MEDICINE: A BREAKTHROUGH IN FELINE HEALTH THROUGH RAPID DETECTION OF FELINE PARVOVIRUS VIA POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION

This clinical study represents a groundbreaking advancement in feline health by introducing a novel approach for the rapid detection of Feline Parvovirus (FPV) through the utilization of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology. The research encompasses a comprehensive analysis of the PCR method's efficiency, accuracy, and speed in diagnosing suspected cases of FPV in cats. The study not only establishes a robust framework for the swift identification of FPV but also sheds light onthe potential implications for precision medicine in feline healthcare. The findings highlight the significance of early and accurate detection in managing FPV, ultimately contributing to enhanced feline welfare.

195 Restricted Feeding and Weight Loss Change Fecal Metabolite Concentrations and Microbiota Populations of Overweight Cats

Abstract Feline obesity negatively influences many metabolic processes, health outcomes, and the individual well-being of cats, but little research evaluates the modification in gastrointestinal microbiota in an overweight state. The use of specially formulated diets and restricted feeding, resulting in subsequent body weight (BW) loss, may be used to improve health and modify gastrointestinal microbiota of overweight cats. This study aimed to identify and determine the effects of restricted feeding and BW loss on fecal metabolite concentrations and microbiota populations of overweight cats. All procedures were approved by the University of Illinois IACUC before experimentation. Twenty-two overweight adult spayed female and neutered male cats [BW = 5.70 ± 1.0 kg; BCS = 7.68±0.6; age = 4 ± 0.4 yr] were used in a 24-wk BW loss study. A control diet (OR) was fed during a 4-wk baseline to identify intake needed to maintain BW. After baseline (wk 0), cats were allotted to OR or a BW loss diet (FT) and fed to lose ~1.0% BW/wk. Fecal samples were collected at baseline (wk 0), and weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 for microbiota and metabolite analyses. Fecal microbiota data were analyzed and evaluated using QIIME2 and Mixed Models procedure of SAS, with P &amp;lt; 0.05 considered significant. Change from baseline fecal acetate, propionate, butyrate, total short-chain fatty acid, isobutyrate, valerate, phenol, indole, and total phenol and indole concentrations were reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.05) with restricted feeding and BW loss. Change from baseline fecal scores and valerate concentrations were also affected by diet, with greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) reductions occurring in cats fed OR than those fed FT. Change from baseline fecal pH was also greater (P = 0.05) in cats fed OR than those fed FT. Fecal bacterial alpha diversity was not affected by diet or restricted feeding and BW loss. However, fecal bacterial beta diversity, assessed by weighted and unweighted UniFrac distances and presented as principal coordinate plots, showed separation between dietary groups, with some significant clustering as a result of restricted feeding and weight loss. The relative abundances of a single fecal bacterial phylum and 5 fecal bacterial genera were impacted by restricted feeding and weight loss. Diet had a greater effect, with 3 fecal bacterial phyla and 19 fecal bacterial genera being different (P &amp;lt; 0.05) between dietary treatment groups. Our data demonstrate that restricted feeding of specially formulated diets, and subsequent BW loss, modifies the fecal metabolite profiles and microbiota populations of overweight cats. The mechanisms by which these changes may affect feline gastrointestinal health and metabolism requires further study.

Arterial thromboembolism in a feline without cardiac changes: Case report

Arterial thromboembolism (ATE) is a clinically challenging condition that affects feline health, with a higher incidence in cats with heart disease. This case report presents a less common scenario, where a four-year-old feline with no history of heart problems was diagnosed with ATE. The animal was treated at a Veterinary Center in the city of São Paulo (Brazil), in a state of emergency, with complaints of acute paraplegia and intense pain in the pelvic limbs. Before the event, the cat was in good health, with normorexia, normodipsia, normuria and normochesia. Analgesia and sedation were performed to control pain and provide better assessment, and the absence of superficial or deep pain was identified in both pelvic limbs during the physical examination. The patient was referred to hospitalization for pain control, blood collection, imaging and cardiological tests for screening. Through tomography, a mass (thrombus/embolus) was identified in the right iliac artery. During the entire hospitalization period, the patient underwent specific protocols for ATE and, after stabilization of the condition, surgical thrombectomy intervention was indicated. The procedure occurred without complications, and the patient remained hospitalized for another 2 (two) days for evaluation and evolution of the clinical condition, being released with assisted discharge, physiotherapy recommendations and weekly returns for definitive discharge.

First Report of Bartonella Henselae Infection in a Cat in North Macedonia

Abstract The genus Bartonella are fastidious, Gram-negative intracellular vector-borne bacteria with zoonotic potential. Cats have a crucial epidemiological role in the transmission of Bartonella henselae, the primary causal agent of cat-scratch disease in humans. Here we describe the first report of B. henselae infection in a cat in North Macedonia after a suspected Bartonella infection in a 7-year-old boy. A combination of cultural and molecular methods for detecting B. henselae in the asymptomatic cat was used. A blood sample was cultured on a blood agar plate, where colonies became visible after nine days of incubation. The DNA of a single colony was extracted, and the isolate was confirmed as B. henselae by sequencing the bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA gene and performing a Bartonella - specific PCR. The phylogenetic analysis demonstrated 100% similarity with B. henselae sequences, clustering on a single branch and establishing a distinct group. This finding indicates that B. henselae infection in cats circulates in North Macedonia and may affect feline and human health.

The feline skin microbiome: interrelationship between health and disease.

As with other species, the skin microbiome of cats has been assessed over the past few years utilizing modern technologies. This has resulted in the identification of many more bacterial and fungal organisms compared with what had been recorded historically on the skin in various states of health and disease using culture-based studies. This information is expanding the knowledge of how microbial communities are impacted by various changes in the skin health of cats. More specifically, how these microbial communities change in the face of health and disease, and how various therapeutic interventions affect the cutaneous microbiome, lends a greater understanding of disease pathogenesis and provides a growing area of research for correcting dysbiosis and improving feline skin health. Most studies on the feline skin microbiome thus far have been descriptive in nature. These provide a framework for the next level of investigations on how various states of health and disease impact the products produced by the cutaneous microbiome (ie, the cutaneous metabolome), as well as how targeted interventions may promote the restoration of balance. This review aims to summarize what is currently known about the feline cutaneous microbiome and its clinical implications. The role of the skin microbiome in health and disease, the current state of research in this area and the potential for future studies to produce targeted interventions for cats are a particular focus.