Infectious Diseases of the Dog and Cat, 3rd ed.

Abstract

The 3rd edition of this book builds on the strengths of the previous edition and is undoubtedly the most comprehensive source of information on infectious diseases of the dog and cat. Published 7 years after the previous version, the 3rd edition has incorporated a variety of pathogens that have emerged or been recognized as of concern in dogs and cats during this period. The book is divided into sections on viral, rickettsial, chlamydial, and mycoplasmal diseases; bacterial diseases; fungal diseases; and protozoal diseases. There is also a large section on clinical problems that addresses individual body systems, plus other areas such as fever, prevention and management of infectious diseases in different environments (i.e., multiple cat environments, kennels), zoonoses, and immunoprophylaxis. There are over 200 pages of appendices, covering topics such as vaccination recommendations, laboratory testing, diagnostic test kits, and formularies. The accompanying CD contains full citations for all of the references, but no additional material, and is not likely to be frequently used by most individuals. One of the strengths of this book is its comprehensive nature. Almost all pathogens are covered under headings of etiology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical findings, diagnosis, pathologic findings, therapy, and public health considerations. Important issues regarding sample collection, diagnostic test selection, and test interpretation are introduced at the beginning of the major sections. There are numerous color images and tables that complement the text; an improvement from the previous version. Practical clinical information, including drug and dosage recommendations, is readily available, often in clear tables. As with most books, there are some factual errors that mostly involve recent information and likely relate to the inherent lag time from writing to publication. These are, in general, minor and of little concern. One area, that may not receive adequate attention relative to other topics, is the prudent use of antimicrobials. This is an important topic in veterinary medicine but does not receive specific coverage. While certain section authors mention the issue briefly, there is a lack of a comprehensive overview of the subject. This concern is highlighted in Appendix 9, where various important human antimicrobials and recommended uses are included, but there is little to no discussion of prudent use. Overall, this book is a very comprehensive guide to infectious diseases of the dog and cat, and is a useful resource to the general practitioner and specialist alike.