Journal of Mahanakorn Veterinary Medicine

Effects of superworms (Zophobas morio) as a dietary protein source on feed intake, nutrient digestibility and growth performance in male crossbred boar goats

Penchan Kanchanarak — 2025-12-29

This study aimed to investigate the effects of incorporating superworms (Zophobas morio) as a protein source in concentrate diets on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, and growth performance of male boar crossbred goats. Sixteen goats with an average initial body weight of 15±3 kg were randomly assigned, in a completely randomized design (CRD), to four treatment groups. The groups received concentrate diets containing 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% superworms on a dry matter basis. All diets were formulated to contain 18% crude protein, with corn silage provided as the main roughage source. The results showed no statistically significant differences (P>0.05) among treatments in total feed intake, nutrient digestibility, or growth performance. These findings indicate that superworms can be used as an alternative protein source in concentrate diets for fattening goats at inclusion levels up to 15% on dry matter basis without adverse effects. Further studies are recommended to evaluate long-term health effects, protein utilization efficiency, and on-farm practical applications.

Case report: Secondary immune-mediated anemia and thrombocytopenia with small intestinal intussusception in a Chihuahua

Nirinrada Kanda — 2025-12-29

An 11-year-old female Chihuahua mix presented with acute melena, lethargy, anorexia, and mild coughing. Laboratory testing revealed rapidly progressive severe anemia (PCV decreasing from 17% to 13% within 24 hours) and acute thrombocytopenia. Multiplex PCR testing for hemoparasites, and screening for canine parvovirus and canine coronavirus were negative. Abdominal ultrasonography identified a small intestinal intussusception. A direct antiglobulin test (DAT) performed by flow cytometry was positive, supporting the diagnosis of immune mediated destruction of both erythrocytes and platelets. The patient received two urgent blood transfusions totaling 500 mL, followed by exploratory laparotomy and resection anastomosis of a 7-cm segment of intussuscepted intestine. Histopathological examination of a tissue biopsy specimen confirmed severe necrotizing and hemorrhagic enteritis. Postoperatively, clinical signs and hematologic parameters improved without the need for immunosuppressive therapy, which is commonly required in cases of immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) and immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (IMT). The final diagnosis was small intestinal intussusception leading to necrotizing enteritis, which triggered secondary Evans syndrome. Concurrent myxomatous mitral valve disease (stage B1) was also diagnosed.

A case report: Gastroesophageal intussusception with megaesophagus in a Chihuahua puppy

Naruemon Plongthong — 2025-12-29

A 1-month-old male Chihuahua presented with a 3-day history of milk regurgitation and lethargy. The owner reported accidentally stepping on the puppy’s abdomen prior to presentation. Radiography and computed tomography (CT scan) revealed gastroesophageal intussusception. Surgical intervention, including caudal sternotomy and gastropexy and placing esophagostomy tube, was performed. The postoperative period was complicated by regurgitation, megaesophagus, and pancreatitis. Fluoroscopy confirmed esophageal dysmotility. Sildenafil was added to the treatment plan, resulting in clinical improvement. At 2 years of age, the patient had no clinical signs and maintained a normal quality of life. Early diagnosis, timely surgery, and long-term management were key to the successful outcome.

The therapeutic response of feline mammary fibroepithelial hyperplasia to aglepristone: A case report

Naruenath Primma — 2025-12-29

Feline Mammary Fibroepithelial Hyperplasia (FMFH) is a non-neoplastic condition most commonly found in intact female cats, particularly after ovulation or following exposure to exogenous progesterone. The pathogenesis involves the stimulation of progesterone receptors in mammary epithelial and stromal cells, together with the influence of local growth factors such as IGF-1 and EGF. This combined effect leads to rapid cellular proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis. This case report describes an intact female cat diagnosed with FMFH following weaning. The cat was treated with aglepristone (Alizin^TM, Virbac, Bangkok), a progesterone receptor antagonist, administered subcutaneously at a dose of 10 mg/kg on days 1, 2, 3, 4, and 9. The mammary glands gradually decreased in size within 7–10 days, with clinical improvement. Adjunctive therapies, including anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory drugs, and topical cool compresses, were also implemented to manage local inflammation. These findings support the use of aglepristone as an effective treatment for FMFH in cats, particularly when ovariohysterectomy (OVH) is not immediately feasible for the owners. Nevertheless, to prevent recurrence, OVH is recommended once the condition has resolved, as progesterone remains the primary trigger for disease reactivation during subsequent estrous cycles.

Successful surgical management of multiple foreign bodies in a captive green iguana (Iguana iguana)

Sirapoom Naktap — 2025-12-29

A 3.5-year-old male green iguana (Iguana iguana) presented with a two-week history of anorexia, absence of defecation, and dysecdysis. Physical examination revealed abdominal distension and discomfort. Initial radiographs identified multiple coins and sharp radiopaque objects within the large intestine, along with intestinal gas accumulation. Due to the size, position, and number of the foreign bodies, surgical intervention was deemed necessary. The patient was pre-medicated intramuscularly with a combination of ketamine, midazolam, and dexmedetomidine, and anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane. An exploratory coeliotomy was performed through a paramedian incision. The cecum was isolated, and typhlotomy was performed to remove the foreign bodies, which included six coins and several small stones. Incisions were closed, and the patient recovered uneventfully from the operation. Postoperative care included supportive fluid therapy, analgesia, and assisted feeding until a normal appetite resumed. Follow-up radiographs showed a clear gastrointestinal tract with improved intestinal motility. By postoperative day ten, the patient had shown complete resolution of clinical signs and a return to a normal appetite and defecation. This case report highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and timely surgical intervention when multiple foreign bodies are present. It also underscores the need for proactive client education to prevent recurrence.