Metaphyseal osteopathy, otherwise known as hypertrophic osteodystrophy, is a disease that causes pyrexia and lethargy accompanied by pain in the thoracic and pelvic limbs of rapidly growing large-breed dogs. While metaphyseal osteopathy has been descibed in association with slipped capital femoral epiphysis in cats, it has not previously been reported as a cause of limb pain and pyrexia in this species. A 7-month-old British Shorthair cat presented with a 1 month history of pyrexia, lethargy and pain in all limbs. Investigation included radiographs of the limbs and chest, abdominal ultrasound, serum biochemical analysis, haematology, bone biopsy, joint fluid aspiration and cytology. Findings were consistent with a diagnosis of metaphyseal osteopathy. The cat's clinical signs resolved following the administration of prednisolone. Symptoms recurred 1 month after the cessation of prednisolone therapy, but resolved when administration was resumed.

Diro laria immitis commonly infects Australian dogs. Studies on the prevalence of infection by this parasitic helminth in Australia cats are rare and relatively old. Data obtained from other countries would suggest a likely prevalence of 4.7-16%. The current study aimed to determine the prevalence of D. immitis in an endemic region of Australia by antigen, antibody and PCR testing. Methods172 healthy cats over 6 months of age from the Townsville region of Australia were tested for D. immitis speci c antibodies and antigen using a commercially available kit. 50 samples were subsequently retested using a second commercially available antibody kit. 48 of these samples were checked for D. immitis DNA using PCR. ResultsNo cat tested positive on any test. The Ausvet Epitools epidemiology calculator was used to calculate prevalences. Maximum antigen (1.27%), antibody (2.1%) and PCR (2.1%) prevalences were calculated. ConclusionOur results suggest that the prevalence of heartworm infection in pet cats in this region of Australia is lower than expected based on data from other areas around the world.