The name “ACANA” is derived from the agricultural region of Alberta, Canada, and the food is made using truly “fresh” ingredients (using raw meat, raw vegetables, and fruits that are incorporated into the manufacturing process without freezing, heating, chemical substances, or preservatives).

ACANA’s concept of ‘Biologically Appropriate Pet Food’ is a food that replicates the natural diet of meat-eating dogs and cats, which originally preyed on herbivores.

・No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives added in the kitchen
・No use of ingredients such as soy, corn, tapioca, or wheat in the kitchen

These points make it reliable for you to use.

Moreover, dogs and cats require protein even more than we do. ACANA uses about 60% of ingredients certified by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, including chicken, flounder, or lamb, ensuring sufficient protein intake.

Additionally, all the carbohydrates used are of low GI. Avoiding the use of wheat and opting for gluten-free options leads to fewer allergies and also helps protect the digestive tract of dogs. Digestive health is a key to maintaining immunity, and because of low GI, it also helps to prevent blood sugar spikes and reduces vascular damage.

Dog Food
・Wild Coast Recipe, Prairie Poultry Recipe, Red Meat Recipe: Crude Protein 29%, Crude Fat 17%
・Puppy Small Breed Recipe, Puppy Recipe: Crude Protein 33%, Crude Fat 20%
・Puppy Large Breed Recipe: Crude Protein 33%, Crude Fat 15%
・Adult Small Breed Recipe: Crude Protein 31%, Crude Fat 17%
・Adult Large Breed Recipe, Free-Run Duck, Yorkshire Pork, Grass-Fed Lamb: Crude Protein 31%, Crude Fat 15%
・Sport & Agility Recipe: Crude Protein 35%, Crude Fat 22%
・Light & Fit Recipe: Crude Protein 35%, Crude Fat 11%
・Senior Recipe: Crude Protein 33%, Crude Fat 14%
・Wild Prairie Recipe, Pacifica Recipe, Grasslands Recipe, Ranchlands Recipe: Crude Protein 35%, Crude Fat 17%

Cat Food
・ORIGINAL CAT, REGIONAL RED, TUNDRA, KITTEN: Crude Protein 40%, Crude Fat 20%
・SIX FISH: Crude Protein 40%, Crude Fat 19%
・FIT & TRIM: Crude Protein 42%, Crude Fat 15%
・GUARDIAN8: Crude Protein 40%, Crude Fat 19%

ACANA’s dog and cat foods are high in protein compared to commercially available foods, making them not only ideal for maintaining health but also recommended for pets with tumors or diabetes looking to restrict carbohydrates.

However, one point to note is that ACANA products tend to be relatively high in fat. While fat is not inherently bad, in the case of dry food, ‘oxidation’ starts from the moment it is manufactured. Oxidized oil can cling to the insides of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels, impairing circulation, and it can also strain the liver, which metabolizes fats.

Therefore, we recommend using the product within 10 days after opening, so it might be better to purchase smaller packages. If only small amounts are consumed, we recommend dividing the contents into smaller portions, vacuum packing them, or placing them in a ziplock bag with an oxygen absorber and desiccant, storing them in a cool, dry place.

There are various types available, so rotating between small packages to avoid your pet getting bored with the taste might be a good idea.

Your pet’s body is built on what they eat every day. Please aim to maintain the health of your beloved dog or cat by incorporating various foods and homemade meals.

The heristo group is a leading company in the food industry, dealing with meat and fish. All of their products, whether for humans or pets, are manufactured under the same high-quality standards.

This means that the ingredients are ‘human grade,’ making them a safe option to feed your pets.

The ‘INTEGRA PROTECT’ line we handle is a therapeutic diet developed by Animonda in collaboration with veterinarians.

① Kidney Care

This is a therapeutic diet for managing chronic kidney disease (CKD).

By reducing the content of protein and phosphorus, it is expected to support kidney function.

Since it also does not contain ‘gluten,’ which can burden the intestines, it is suitable for pets that have weak stomachs as well as those with CKD.

Typically, there are limited options for kidney care food, but this kidney care wet food offers:

For dogs: 3 types – beef, pork, chicken

For cats: 6 types – beef, pork, chicken, turkey, duck, veal

Many pets with kidney disease have sensitive tastes and may get bored of the same flavor, so it’s helpful to have a variety to rotate through.

For dry food, it contains a high amount of fat for calorie supplementation. To avoid the burden on the body from oxidized fats, it is recommended to consume within 7-10 days after opening.

Initially within 6 months.

Before use and if you wish to extend the period, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.

Dogs are closer to omnivorous carnivores and need to ingest sufficient protein.

“High-protein diet ≠ Kidney disease.” Therefore, this therapeutic diet should only be used for dogs that have been specifically diagnosed with kidney disease by a veterinarian (stage 3 or higher according to the IRIS classification, a marker for kidney disease).

If you are unsure about the stage of your pet’s kidney disease, please refer to the following URL and have your most recent blood test results on hand.

• Chronic Kidney Disease in Dogs and Cats (Japanese)

② Gastrointestinal Care

This is a therapeutic diet specially developed to manage acute diarrhea symptoms.

It uses hydrolyzed proteins to reduce the digestive burden.

Furthermore, it contains Yucca schidigera to prevent struvite.

Since an imbalanced intestinal environment can also cause urinary stones such as struvite, it is beneficial to be able to address both gastrointestinal health and urinary stones.

Up to 12 weeks.

Before use and if you wish to extend the period, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.

③ Allergy Care

This is a therapeutic diet specifically developed for food allergies, containing only one type of animal protein, which is the cause of allergies.

For wet food, there are four types for both dogs and cats: turkey, horse, chicken, lamb. There’s also pork for cats only, so please choose the protein source that does not cause an allergic reaction.

3-8 weeks.

Before use and if you wish to extend the period, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.

④ pH Care (Cats only)

This therapeutic diet is specially developed to make it difficult for urinary stones to form, supporting the maintenance of the urinary pH balance with a blend of minerals.

There are two types: one for struvite and one for calcium oxalate stones, so please choose based on the results of a urine test.

Initially within 6 months.

Before use and if you wish to extend the period, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.

⑤ Diabetes Care (Cats only)

This is a therapeutic diet designed for diabetic pets, formulated with high protein and low carbohydrates to prevent rapid spikes in postprandial blood glucose levels.

A high protein and low carbohydrate diet is also recommended for pets with tumors, as it provides an appropriate nutritional balance. Therefore, it can also be used as food for pets with tumors.

There are six types: beef, poultry (chicken and turkey), chicken liver, rabbit, salmon, and turkey heart. It is recommended to rotate these options.

Initial period: within 6 months.

It is recommended to consult with a veterinarian before using this diet and if you plan to extend the usage period.

There is a note stating that all six types can be used indefinitely if symptoms improve. However, therapeutic diets are specifically designed to address certain diseases. Therefore, it is advisable to gradually transition to regular pet food or complete nutrition food as your pet’s condition stabilizes.

Therapeutic diets are akin to medications.

Do not incorporate or discontinue them based on your own judgment. Always consult with a veterinarian before making any changes.

CBD stands for Cannabidiol, one of the natural phytocannabinoid compounds extracted from the stems and seeds of hemp (Cannabis sativa).

Not only humans but also dogs and cats have a system called the ECS (Endocannabinoid System) to maintain health.

The hormones involved in this system are called ‘cannabinoids.’ These cannabinoids decrease due to stress and aging, leading to ‘cannabinoid deficiency syndrome,’ which can cause various health issues.

Causes of Cannabinoid Deficiency Syndrome:
– Genetics
– Unbalanced diet
– Lack of exercise
– Poor sleep quality (e.g., short sleep duration)
– Overuse of medication
– Chronic stress

Main Symptoms Suspected in Cannabinoid Deficiency Syndrome:
– Excessive barking and fearfulness
– Restlessness
– Lack of energy
– Difficulty sleeping
– Pain
– Joint problems
– Skin issues

CBD is proposed as a supplement to these cannabinoids. By acting on the ECS, CBD helps maintain homeostasis, thereby maintaining health from the inside out. In other words, CBD helps restore the body and mind to their ‘natural state.’

The Difference Between CBD and THC:
Hemp contains more than 100 types of phytocannabinoid compounds. They can be broadly divided into two categories: CBD and THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol).

CBD is a component extracted from the stems and seeds of hemp. It interacts with neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine in the brain, aiding in calming effects and stress relief. It is characterized by its lack of dependency and toxicity, offering deep relaxation. Over 1,000 studies have been conducted, revealing its efficacy for various symptoms. It is also used as a medication overseas.

On the other hand, THC is a component extracted from the flowers, buds, leaves, and roots of hemp that acts on the mind. When inhaled, it can make one feel “high,” leading to dependency and toxicity, hence its use is prohibited by law.

Some low-quality CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC. Using such products, even unknowingly, is illegal. It is recommended to inquire with manufacturers and ensure safety and quality personally.

Differences in CBD Manufacturing Methods:
CBD raw materials come in three types based on the manufacturing method: ① Full Spectrum, ② Broad Spectrum, and ③ Isolate.

① Full Spectrum
Most natural composition but may contain trace amounts of THC, which is regulated in Japan.

② Broad Spectrum
Contains a combination of cannabinoids other than THC, terpenes, and flavonoids, believed to offer a broader range of therapeutic effects. The synergy of these compounds is expected to result in higher efficacy, known as the ‘entourage effect.’ Products from the pet CBD manufacturer CANNNIMAL fall into this category.

③ Isolate
Contains no THC, making it the primary type imported into Japan. “Isolate” refers to extracting a single cannabinoid component from over 100 types and dissolving it in coconut oil or other oils. CBD alone or a combination of isolated components like CBG and CBN are offered.

Potential Benefits of CBD:
By incorporating the cannabinoids contained in CBD into the body, it is expected to regulate the ECS, helping to care for various ailments.

Foreign studies report potential applications for the following symptoms:
– Anxiety relief and reduction of anxious behavior
– Reduction of neuroses: anti-seizure effects, alleviation of epilepsy symptoms, neuroprotection, neurodegenerative diseases
– Brain ischemia (reduced blood and oxygen supply to the brain)
– Myocardial ischemia (reduced blood and oxygen supply to the myocardium)
– Inflammation
– Psoriasis
– Inflammatory bowel disease
– Arthritis and associated pain
– Inflammation suppression (cytokine release inhibition)
– Vomiting: chemotherapy-induced vomiting, motion sickness
– Type 1 diabetes, diabetic retinopathy
– Promotion of fracture healing and bone regeneration
– Cancer cells: Induction of apoptosis, inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, suppression/reduction of metastasis, mitigation of chemotherapy side effects
– Kidney protection (Cisplatin, used in chemotherapy, is highly toxic to the kidneys)
– Inhibition of drug-resistant bacteria activity

(Source: Izzo, et al. “Non-psychotropic plant cannabinoids: new therapeutic opportunities from an ancient herb.” Trends in pharmacological sciences 30.10 (2009): 515-527.)

While we cannot guarantee that it will be effective for every pet’s specific condition, this is an alternative therapy well worth trying for those who:
– Want to care for vague or general health issues
– Prefer not to use too many medications
– Are at a standstill with current treatments and are looking for other options
– Wish to alleviate stress

In recent years, low-carb diets have become popular, and there is often a misconception that low-carb means restricting carbohydrates. However, strictly speaking, carbohydrates are not equivalent to sugars.

Carbohydrates are composed of sugars and dietary fiber. Both sugars and dietary fiber are very important nutrients.

However, for pets with tumors, it is crucial to choose the “type” of sugar carefully.

### Types of Sugars

Sugars can be classified based on the number of glucose molecules they contain: monosaccharides, disaccharides, trisaccharides, and polysaccharides.

**Types of Sugars:**

**1. Monosaccharides**
Glucose, fructose, and galactose

**2. Disaccharides**
Sucrose (table sugar) = glucose + fructose
Maltose = two glucose molecules
Lactose = glucose + galactose

**3. Trisaccharides**
Oligosaccharides

**4. Polysaccharides**
Starch, dextrin, glycogen, and sugar alcohols

One important point to consider when consuming these sugars is where they are broken down into glucose.

– **Monosaccharides and Disaccharides**
Monosaccharides and disaccharides turn into glucose in the small intestine. Once broken down into glucose, they are absorbed through the small intestine and used as an energy source in the body.

They are broken down and absorbed faster than fats, making them suitable for quickly replenishing energy and raising blood sugar levels during intense exercise or hypoglycemia.

However, glucose is not only the sole nutrient source for cancer cells (tumor cells) but also raises blood sugar levels, stimulating insulin secretion, which in turn promotes the occurrence, growth, and metastasis of cancer.

Stimulating insulin secretion also puts a burden on the pancreas, increasing the risk of diabetes when the pancreas becomes exhausted.

Additionally, AGEs (Advanced Glycation End-products) produced from “glyceraldehyde,” a metabolic product of fructose, are highly toxic and generate a lot of reactive oxygen species. This cell damage caused by reactive oxygen species may also increase cancer risk.

Moreover, glucose turns into neutral fat due to insulin, so excessive intake of glucose can lead to obesity.

Obesity can cause inflammation and various other symptoms, so it is important to be mindful of excessive glucose intake — particularly monosaccharides and disaccharides.

– **Oligosaccharides**
Oligosaccharides are not broken down by enzymes but are decomposed and utilized as food by beneficial bacteria such as bifidobacteria and butyrate-producing bacteria in the large intestine. When beneficial bacteria increase, they produce short-chain fatty acids like acetic acid, butyric acid, and propionic acid.

The production of fatty acids causes the intestinal environment to become slightly acidic, inhibiting the activity of harmful bacteria and activating intestinal peristalsis, thereby improving the intestinal environment.

Butyric acid is expected to act on regulatory T cells (Treg), which are involved in autoimmune diseases, to help prevent the immune system from running amok.

Supporting beneficial bacteria with oligosaccharides can consequently lead to increased short-chain fatty acid production, essential for improving the intestinal environment.

Various types of oligosaccharides include isomalt oligosaccharides, fructooligosaccharides, xylooligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides, soybean oligosaccharides, milk oligosaccharides, raffinose (beet oligosaccharide), and kestose (an extract from oligosaccharides that selectively provides nutrients to beneficial bacteria like bifidobacteria).

Be cautious when buying commercially available oligosaccharides, as they may contain other sugars like glucose-fructose syrup. Always check the ingredients.

– **Polysaccharides**
Polysaccharides have a structure containing many monosaccharides, so they take longer to break down, resulting in a more gradual absorption.

Therefore, they do not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels like monosaccharides, but they still eventually break down into monosaccharides, leading to obesity if consumed excessively.

Among the polysaccharides, starch known as “resistant starch” is not digested in the small intestine and reaches the large intestine, where it activates intestinal bacteria, improves constipation, and helps prevent rapid blood sugar spikes. Because it has properties of both insoluble and soluble fiber, it is sometimes referred to as a hyper-fiber or comfortable starch.
Resistant starch is found in legumes, grains, and tubers. When these foods are cooked and gelatinized (converted to alpha-starch), they become digestible and can cause an increase in blood glucose levels. However, by cooling them again, the starch recrystallizes and becomes less digestible, effectively turning into fiber.

Since legumes, grains, and tubers also contain other carbohydrates, it’s important not to consume them in excess. However, they do serve as a source of resistant starch.

A deficiency in dietary fiber can also lead to a deterioration in gut health. Therefore, when incorporating these foods into your diet, keep the portions small and make sure to cool them after cooking before consumption.

Among grains, a new variety called “BarleyMax” has been developed to have a higher content of resistant starch, so using this grain might be beneficial.

There are various types of carbohydrates, so it is vital to understand which ones to limit when it comes to ‘carbohydrate restriction.’

For pets with tumors, it is important to minimize carbohydrate intake as much as possible, but optimizing gut health is also a fast track to stabilizing the immune system. This might involve actively incorporating oligosaccharides in their diet. Additionally, using low-GI carbohydrate sources can be beneficial as an energy and calorie source.

Do check the amount of carbohydrates and fiber in the food your pet usually eats and use this information to review and improve their daily diet.

【Feline Coronavirus Infection】
This infection is caused by Feline Enteric Coronavirus (FECV), one of the Feline Coronaviruses (FCoV), and is also known as ‘Feline Enteric Coronavirus Infection‘. The prevalence of FECV in domestic cats is very high, with rates around 40% in wild cats and about 90% in multi-cat households. Therefore, it’s safe to assume that most cats adopted from breeders or pet shops carry FECV.

＜Symptoms＞
In most cases, pathogenic symptoms do not appear. If symptoms do occur, they are usually mild diarrhea.

＜Route of Infection＞
As the virus infects the intestinal tract, it can easily spread through feces and infect via the mouth or nose. Normally, the infection is transient, and antibody levels decrease over time.

＜Diagnosis Method＞
There are two types of tests: antibody tests and PCR tests. Both are conducted by sending samples to a testing center.

＜Treatment＞
Since most FECV cases are asymptomatic, treatment is typically supportive if diarrhea symptoms are present.

＜Precautions＞
In the case of FCoV, it loses infectivity at room temperature within minutes to hours and can usually be inactivated with common alcohol or hypochlorite disinfectants. However, the virus in feces can be protected by proteins in the feces and remain resistant in the environment for 3 to 7 weeks. Therefore, frequent cleaning and disinfection of living environments, litter boxes, and dishes are important.

＜Prevention＞
As there is no vaccine to prevent Feline Coronavirus, avoiding contact with infected cats is the best prevention. However, given the high prevalence in domestic cats, avoiding contact with infected cats can be challenging. Prior testing to confirm negativity before bringing a new cat into the home and keeping cats indoors can help reduce the risk. Additionally, humans may transmit the virus to cats, so after contact with an infected cat, change clothes, disinfect hands (or ideally shower), before touching your own cat.

＜Relationship with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)＞
Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is also a type of Feline Coronavirus (FCoV). It is believed FECV can mutate into Feline Infectious Peritonitis Virus (FIPV) under certain conditions, leading to the development of FIP. For more information on FIP, please refer to this page.

● For information on FIP treatment methods, please refer to this page.

【Feline Herpesvirus Infection】
This infection is caused by feline herpesvirus type 1 (FeHV-1) and is also known as “feline viral rhinotracheitis.”
Together with feline calicivirus and feline chlamydia, it forms part of upper respiratory infections, commonly referred to as “cat flu.”

＜Symptoms＞
Nasal discharge
Continuous sneezing
Eye discharge
Conjunctivitis and keratitis
Stomatitis
Loss of appetite
Fever

Conjunctivitis is typically present in both eyes, and in severe cases, eyeball rupture can occur. If stomatitis worsens, there may be increased drooling and strong bad breath. Severe cases are also at a higher risk of developing pneumonia.

In young kittens or cats with weakened immune systems, secondary bacterial infections or mixed infections can exacerbate the symptoms.

＜Transmission Routes＞
The virus is transmitted nasally or orally through nasal discharge, eye discharge, and saliva from infected cats. Moreover, since herpesvirus can remain latent in the trigeminal ganglion, infected cats can harbor the virus for life. Even if the symptoms appear to resolve completely, a decrease in immunity can cause the herpesvirus in the trigeminal ganglion to reactivate, leading to new symptoms and making the cat a source of infection again.

＜Diagnosis Methods＞
There are several diagnostic methods, including serological tests (virus neutralization tests, indirect immunofluorescence assay), virus isolation, and PCR tests. Virus isolation is considered the most reliable method.

＜Treatment Methods＞
There is no effective treatment for herpesvirus itself; thus, supportive care aims to alleviate current symptoms and allow the cat to recover using its own strength and immune system.

Supportive care may include fluid therapy to correct dehydration, nutritional support, administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate pain and inflammation, and administration of interferon.

Recently, new antiviral eye drops that target and disrupt the replication of the herpesvirus DNA have become available. Oral administration of L-lysine is also believed to be effective, and it may be beneficial to take it as a supplement.

In addition, broad-spectrum antibiotics may be used to prevent secondary bacterial infections or mixed infections as previously mentioned.

＜Precautions＞
FeHV-1 can be easily killed by most commercial disinfectants (such as alcohol-based disinfectants) and detergents. However, because it can remain latently infected inside the body, disinfecting the living environment, including toilets and dishes, cannot eliminate the virus within the cat. Maintaining usual hygiene and minimizing stress can help prevent recurrence.

＜Prevention Methods＞
FeHV-1 prevention is possible with vaccination. Ensuring kittens are properly vaccinated can help prevent the disease, though it may not completely prevent infection. To avoid immune imbalance, it’s important to minimize stress and consider supplements that support immune health, which may help in preventing the onset of the disease.

【Feline Calicivirus Infection】
This infection is caused by Feline Calicivirus (FCV) and, along with Feline Herpesvirus and Feline Chlamydia, it contributes to upper respiratory infections, commonly referred to as ‘cat colds’. While FCV itself may not always manifest pathogenic symptoms, it has the ability to infect many animals, including the pet owner and other animals living in the same household, thus requiring caution.

＜Symptoms＞
1. Low-virulence strain:
– Stomatitis
– Eye discharge
– Nasal discharge
– Sneezing
– Loss of appetite
– Vesicles and ulcers on the tongue

Symptoms typically resolve within 2-3 weeks.

2. High-virulence strain:
– Fever
– Skin ulcers
– Edema of the head
– Liver lesions
– DIC (Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation)
– Multiple organ failure

The high-virulence strain is known to cause severe symptoms in adult cats, with a fatality rate of 33-50%.

Furthermore, even with low-virulence strains, symptoms may worsen due to secondary bacterial infections or co-infections, particularly in young kittens or cats with weakened immune systems.

＜Transmission routes＞
The virus is transmitted nasally or orally through the nasal discharge, eye discharge, or saliva of infected cats. Feline Calicivirus can establish a latent infection in the epithelial cells of the tonsils, turning the cat into a carrier, and may cause recurring symptoms when the cat’s immune balance is disrupted.

＜Diagnosis＞
While most cases are diagnosed based on clinical symptoms, PCR tests and antibody tests may be conducted to confirm the presence of Feline Calicivirus.

＜Treatment＞
There is no effective treatment for Feline Calicivirus itself. Supportive care is provided to alleviate the current symptoms, aiming for the cat to overcome the infection with its own strength and immune response.

Supportive care may include fluid therapy for dehydration, nutritional support, administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain and inflammation relief, and Interferon (IFN-ω).

Additionally, broad-spectrum antibiotics may be used to prevent secondary bacterial infections or co-infections.

＜Precautions＞
FCV is highly resistant in the environment and is said to remain infectious for about a month. Therefore, disinfect living spaces and dishes using 0.1% sodium hypochlorite.

＜Prevention＞
Like Feline Panleukopenia Virus, FCV can also be prevented through vaccination. Ensuring proper vaccination during kittenhood is crucial for prevention, though it does not guarantee complete protection against FCV infection. Maintaining a stress-free environment and providing immune-boosting supplements can also help prevent the onset of the infection.

In our virus disease series, we will present information on viral diseases that cat owners should be aware of, as well as their treatments and coping methods.

Our first topic is feline panleukopenia.

【Feline Panleukopenia】
Also known as: Feline Parvovirus Infection, Feline Viral Enteritis, Feline Distemper

Caused by the Feline Parvovirus (FPV), this infection has a very high mortality rate, with reports suggesting that the mortality rate in young kittens is as high as 75-90%.

Especially in unvaccinated cats without immunity, the infection rate is said to be nearly 100%.

＜Symptoms＞
Gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting
Fever
Loss of appetite
Drooling

In kittens younger than 5 months, it is not uncommon for death to occur within 12 hours of onset.

When a pregnant cat is infected, the virus can pass through the placenta to the fetus, causing miscarriage or stillbirth. Cats that are infected around the time of birth may develop brain abnormalities.

＜Transmission Routes＞
The virus is transmitted through the vomit and feces of infected cats. In the early stages of infection, it can also be present in saliva, urine, and nasal discharge, so if there are other cats in the household, there is a high possibility of transmission through shared items such as grooming tools, dishes, and litter boxes.

Parvovirus is extremely infectious and can remain viable in the environment for about a month, making it easy for the virus to spread to other cats from contaminated objects.

Additionally, it can be transmitted by fleas, so flea control is also crucial.

＜Diagnosis＞
Diagnosis is made by detecting viral antigens in feces or by PCR testing using feces or whole blood. Additionally, as the name “panleukopenia” suggests, blood tests reveal a significant decrease in white blood cells, particularly neutrophils.

＜Treatment＞
There is no specific treatment for parvovirus, and supportive care is used to alleviate current symptoms, with the aim of helping the cat’s body overcome the virus through its own strength and immune response.

Supportive care primarily involves fluid therapy to correct dehydration. The fluids also contain vitamins and minerals, providing some nutritional support.

If the diarrhea or vomiting is severe, appetite stimulants may be administered, or a feeding tube may be inserted for nutritional supplementation.

Antibiotics may also be given to prevent infections and sepsis caused by intestinal bacteria due to the reduced white blood cell count.

＜Cautions＞
As mentioned before, parvovirus is extremely infectious and cannot be killed by soap or alcohol. Therefore, dispose of any blankets or toys contaminated with vomit or diarrhea.

For non-disposable items (such as floors, walls, or carriers), dilute sodium hypochlorite (bleach) by 10 to 50 times, spray, and wipe them down.

For infected cat dishes, soak them in sodium hypochlorite or use disposable dishes that can be thrown away after each use.

When caring for an infected cat, the virus can adhere to the owner’s hands and clothes and spread to other cats. It is recommended to wear disposable clothing or protective gear and gloves.

If you suspect your cat has symptoms of parvovirus, please contact your veterinary clinic by phone before visiting to prevent the spread of infection within the clinic.

＜Prevention＞
The feline panleukopenia virus is included in the trivalent cat vaccine, making it a preventable infectious disease through vaccination.

Typically, maternal antibodies received from the mother weaken to a level where active immune response becomes possible by 8 to 12 weeks of age. However, kittens with low maternal antibodies may become susceptible to infections earlier than this period.

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) recommends core vaccinations for kittens (parvo, herpes, calici) to begin at 6 to 8 weeks of age, with subsequent vaccinations every 2 to 4 weeks until 16 weeks of age or later. Thus, kittens receiving their first vaccine at 6 weeks of age require four doses, while those starting at 8-9 weeks require three doses.

Regarding core vaccines, a booster at 26 weeks is recommended, followed by an interval of at least three years before the next core vaccine. However, the duration of antibody levels can vary depending on the type of vaccine and individual characteristics.

Therefore, it is advisable to measure antibody titers yearly, and if sufficient levels are present, vaccination for that year can be skipped; if levels are low, a booster should be administered.

For rescue cats with unknown medical histories, it is recommended to administer the first vaccine, follow with a second dose after 2 to 3 weeks, and confirm antibody titers for subsequent vaccinations.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Modes of Infection

FeLV is an RNA virus that belongs to the Gamma retrovirus genus. It is transmitted through the saliva, tears, urine, and feces of an infected cat, entering the body through the mouth or nose.

Specifically, cats can become infected through biting during fights, grooming each other, or sharing dishes and litter boxes.

Additionally, an infected cat can transmit the virus to her kittens via the placenta or milk, and infection can also occur from the saliva during grooming.

FeLV is very unstable in the environment and loses its infectivity within minutes to hours at room temperature.

However, it can retain infectivity for a longer period in moist places like pet pads.

Furthermore, in 2002, a research team from Nihon University reported that cats infested by fleas have a higher tendency of FeLV infection (Maruyama, 2002).

Symptoms of Feline Leukemia (FeLV)

Early symptoms include fever, lethargy, lymph node swelling, and anemia, which last from a week to several months before temporarily subsiding.

Since the virus is not eliminated from the body, many cats experience recurrent symptoms, and some develop tumors like lymphoma or leukemia within a few years.

When the virus affects the bone marrow, it can cause aplastic anemia and leukopenia, leading to weakened immunity, making secondary infections more likely.

FeLV infection can also cause glomerulonephritis, progressing to renal failure, characterized by increased drinking and urination, loss of appetite, weight loss, and anemia.

If a mother cat is infected, it can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth, and kittens born may die early.

The virus remains latent and doesn’t manifest, making complete recovery difficult, leading to death within months to years.

FeLV infection is classified into four types based on the progression speed and characteristics.

1. Progressive Form

This is the most severe type.

The virus proliferates in tissues like lymph tissues, bone marrow, mucosal layers, and glandular epithelial tissues, compromising immunity. Most infected cats die within 3-4 years.

2. Regressive Form

The cat’s immune response suppresses viral proliferation before it invades the bone marrow, clearing the virus from the body.

The virus doesn’t replicate or get excreted.

3. Abortive Form

Although the cat is infected, tests cannot detect the virus, antigen, viral RNA, or proviral DNA. This type is rare after artificial infection.

4. Localized Form

The virus is confined to specific areas like the spleen, lymph nodes, small intestine, and mammary glands, but this is a rare case.

Risk Factors for FeLV Infection

– Male cats (2.4 times more likely than females)

– Adult cats (2.5 times more likely than kittens over seven months old)

– Free-ranging cats (8.9 times more likely than indoor cats)

Stray cats have a higher prevalence of FeLV than house cats, so it is crucial to check for the virus when rescuing stray cats.

Testing for FeLV

A blood test can determine infection status.

However, it cannot be detected immediately after infection.

The test can identify infection approximately one month post-exposure.

If the initial test after rescue is negative, a retest should be conducted after one month since a retest may yield negative even if initially positive.

Repeated tests confirming positive indicate definite infection.

When symptoms like lymphoma and leukemia are observed and tested positive, a single test may suffice for diagnosis.

 
For kittens, the presence of maternal antibodies may prevent accurate test results. Therefore, it is recommended to conduct tests one month after taking the kitten in and when the kitten is over three months old.

Treatment for Feline Leukemia Virus

Unfortunately, current veterinary medicine cannot eliminate the virus from the body.

Symptomatic treatment is provided to alleviate discomfort according to each symptom.

Main Symptomatic Treatments

– Interferon

– Antibiotics

– Anti-inflammatory drugs

– Antineoplastic agents

– Blood transfusions

– Intravenous drips

Impact on Other Species

Since it is a virus specific to cats, it is believed not to infect humans or animals other than those of the Felidae family.

How to Deal with Household Cats

As mentioned earlier, the Feline Leukemia Virus is a frightening infectious disease that can easily spread through grooming and fighting.

Therefore, if you have other cats living with a cat that is positive for the Feline Leukemia Virus, it is important to isolate them.

There is also a risk of transmission through food dishes and litter boxes, so ideally, it is recommended to keep the infected cat and other cats in completely separate rooms.

If you are unsure whether a new cat has the virus, it is recommended to isolate it until it tests negative for the virus.

However, if isolation from the infected cat is not possible and they have to share the same space, there are combination vaccines that include the Feline Leukemia Virus. For cats that test negative, vaccination can be considered.

However, it is important to note that even combination vaccines do not provide 100% protection against infection.

They help to create a state where the infection is less likely to establish and the disease is less likely to develop. Therefore, creating an environment where the infected cat does not come into contact with other cats is still considered crucial to prevent infection.

Vaccines are not only ineffective for cats that are already infected, but their safety is also not established. Make sure to get a test before vaccination.

Preventing Onset of Feline Leukemia

If the immune system is functioning properly, it is expected to prevent the onset of the Feline Leukemia Virus.

Conversely, stress can disrupt the immune balance and result in the onset of the disease.

Regardless of the Feline Leukemia Virus infection status, stress disrupts the immune balance and can lead to infections, autoimmune diseases, and tumors. Therefore, it is important to provide a stress-free lifestyle.

Take another look at your cat’s living environment and diet.

Maintaining a healthy gut environment is also essential for a proper immune system. There are tests available to examine gut bacteria, and it might be beneficial to have such a test done to check your cat’s gut flora, even if they are currently producing good stools.

The fundamental measure to prevent the Feline Leukemia Virus is to keep the cat entirely indoors to avoid exposure to the virus.

However, even if a newly adopted cat tests positive for the Feline Leukemia Virus, it does not mean that the cat will necessarily develop the disease 100%.

To ensure that your beloved cat lives its life to the fullest until the very end, strive to provide a stress-free lifestyle and enjoy “Nyan Life” with your entire family.

Since the inflammation of blood vessels causes various symptoms, it is said that the behavior of this virus is similar to coronavirus in humans.

FECV prevalence is around 40% in outdoor cats and around 90% in multi-cat environments. Therefore, it might be safe to assume that most cats acquired from breeders or pet shops carry FECV.

Even if a cat carries FECV, many cats remain healthy throughout their lives.

However, if it mutates into FIPV for some reason, the virus proliferates in organs throughout the body, leading to the development of FIP.

### 【Age of Onset and Breeds Prone to FIP】

FIP is said to be more commonly seen in cats under three years of age (particularly those aged 4-16 months) and in senior cats.

Reports indicate that over 70% of FIP cases occur in cats under one year old. This is thought to be because the immune system is still immature in younger cats, and it becomes less effective in seniors.

Also, purebred cats (especially Asian breeds like Himalayans and Birmans) are reported to be more susceptible to FIP than mixed-breed cats.

### 【Transmission Routes】

Since FIPV itself is very weak outside the body and quickly becomes inactive, there is no current evidence of FIPV itself infecting other cats (horizontal transmission).

FECV is transmitted via feces, which means that sharing litter boxes, grooming fur contaminated with feces, or licking saliva mixed with feces can cause infection.

Factors contributing to the mutation from FECV to FIPV include:

– Age (young cats with underdeveloped immune systems or senior cats with weakened immune systems)
– Multi-cat environments
– Stress
– Diseases that cause immune abnormalities such as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
– Treatment with immunosuppressive drugs

### 【Symptoms and Types of FIP】

Initial symptoms include:

– Decreased appetite
– Weight loss
– Fever
– Gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea

Since these are not specific to FIP and can occur in various diseases, it is often difficult to recognize FIP at this stage.

FIP can be classified into the following three types based on additional symptoms observed beyond the initial ones:

#### ① Wet Type (Exudative)

Most cases of FIP are the wet type.
Symptoms include dehydration, anemia, abdominal swelling due to ascites, breathing difficulties due to pleural effusion, and jaundice.
The ascitic and pleural fluid removed is usually yellow and viscous.
Most cats die within two weeks to one month after diagnosis, and the average life expectancy is said to be 7-10 days.

#### ② Dry Type (Non-exudative)

This type is characterized by the formation of granulomas in various organs such as the kidneys, liver, brain, and eyes.
Symptoms vary depending on the affected organs. If the brain is affected, neurological symptoms like seizures, behavior changes, abnormal behavior, difficulty walking, paralysis of elimination, or facial nerve paralysis may be observed.

#### ③ Mixed Type

This type combines features of both wet and dry types and progresses more slowly than the wet type alone.

### 【Diagnosis of FIP】

The diagnosis of FIP is mostly confirmed by detecting FIPV from blood, pleural fluid, or ascitic fluid through PCR testing.

For the wet type, diagnosis is relatively straightforward with tests on pleural/ascitic fluids and blood tests showing an Albumin:Globulin ratio (A:G ratio) of less than 0.8, and elevated total protein levels.

For the dry type, there is no definitive test for a 100% FIP diagnosis. Diagnosis often involves a combination of age, onset progression, symptoms, blood tests, imaging, antibody titers, and serum protein fractions.

### 【General Treatment for FIP】

Currently, there is no established effective treatment for FIP. Treatment is limited to symptomatic therapy to alleviate symptoms.
### Types of Symptomatic Therapies

– Steroids
– Interferon
– Immunosuppressants
– Antibiotics
– IV Drip

These are some of the symptomatic therapies available.

【Other Treatments for FIP】

In recent years, treatments for FIP have been evolving significantly.

However, since these treatments involve unapproved drugs within Japan, they can be costly and vary widely in safety that has not yet been fully established. Therefore, the decision to use them lies with the pet owners.

There have been cases where alternative therapies combined with conventional treatments and supplements combined with conventional treatments have achieved remission. Nonetheless, these do not compare to the remission rates of unapproved drugs within Japan.

The following introduces treatment options other than conventional treatments.

①GS-441524
This is a precursor to GS-5734, an antiviral agent that inhibits RNA virus replication in humans, and it has shown potential for high antiviral efficacy against FIPV.

A paper published in 2019 by Dr. Pedersen’s group at the University of California, Davis, stated that treatment with GS-441524, a novel substance that inhibits replication synthesis, achieved more than 80% long-term survival.

Previously, only injectable forms were available. However, since last year, an oral formulation of GS-441524 can be purchased in the UK and can now be imported into Japan for use in animals.

②MUTIAN (currently Xraphconn)
This drug was developed by China’s MUTIAN company as a GS-441524 analogue. While MUTIAN was available in capsule form, the current Xraphconn (Lapcon) comes in tablet form.

It appears to be more widely used compared to GS among unapproved FIP drugs in Japan. However, the cost is higher than GS, and it can vary depending on the type and severity of FIP and the weight of the animal, with total treatment costs ranging from 1 to 2 million yen or more.

③CHUANFUNING (CFN)
This drug is manufactured by a company founded by former employees of MUTIAN and is said to have the same manufacturing method and ingredients as the previously circulated MUTIAN.
The number of cases treated with CFN is increasing, and treatment results comparable to MUTIAN have been confirmed. When comparing the published data, CFN seems to have a slightly higher improvement rate than Xraphconn.

The above mentioned options ①～③ are unapproved drugs within Japan that are currently widely adopted. As a standard method, treatment is administered for 84 days, followed by a three-month observation period, after which tests are conducted to confirm whether remission has been achieved.

④Remdesivir
This is a treatment for the human novel coronavirus. It has also begun to be used for FIP treatment in Australia and the UK on a case-by-case basis, with reports of an 85-90% efficacy rate in over 400 cases.

The International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM) has introduced a protocol for FIP treatment that combines GS-441524 and Remdesivir. In Australia, there has been a treatment record of approximately 500 cats from October 2020 to November 2021.

⑤Molnupiravir
This is a drug that has begun to be used domestically for the human novel coronavirus and has also shown reports of efficacy against FIP.
It costs about one-tenth of GS-441524, but its safety for use in cats has not yet been confirmed, and it is less effective in terms of anti-FIP viral activity compared to GS.

Additionally, Molnupiravir poses concerns about mutagenicity and carcinogenicity, making it unlikely to be a first-choice medication at present.

In the future, it may be used for animals that have developed resistance to GS formulations.

⑥5-Aminolevulinic Acid (5-ALA)
In 2021, there were reports from a collaborative study between Kitasato University and Neopharma Japan confirming the suppressive effect of 5-Aminolevulinic Acid (5-ALA) on the replication of feline coronavirus.

Since these results are still from laboratory experiments, its use as a therapeutic drug is yet to come. However, since the safety of the ingredient in the body is already established, there is a reasonable expectation that it may be approved as a treatment for FIP in the future.

7. Homeopathy and Chinese Medicine
There are cases where using a combination of conventional treatment and alternative therapies has led to remission or symptom control.

The types of homeopathy and Chinese medicine prescribed can vary depending on the treating doctor, so specific types are not mentioned here.

8. Supplements
To combat the virus, it is crucial to have a properly functioning immune system.

Therefore, using supplements that support the immune system can be expected to help manage symptoms.

In cases where there is an accumulation of pleural effusion or ascites, a deficiency of amino acids in the body can occur. Thus, BCAA supplementation is recommended. Additionally, supporting liver function can promote albumin production, so liver care supplements (such as placenta) are also advised.

Considering that unapproved drugs are metabolized in the liver, providing liver care can support the body during treatment with unapproved drugs.

Furthermore, since FIP presents systemic symptoms due to viral-induced vasculitis, it is recommended to take EPA/DHA for inflammation care.

Although new treatments are emerging, they are still not widely common, and the treatment costs are high, so not all cats are able to receive these treatments.

I earnestly hope that one day, FIP treatments will become equally accessible to all cats.