A 15-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat presented with a 5-month history of dysphagia that progressed to an inability to open the mouth, resulting in poor prehension of food and subsequent weight loss. Neurological examination revealed an ambulatory vestibular ataxia with reduced postural reactions in all four limbs. There was a head tilt to the right and a positional rotatory nystagmus. The mandibular range of motion was greatly reduced at 20 mm compared with a normal cat (mean 62 ± 8 mm, median 63, range 41-84). MRI of the brain revealed a solitary, large, extra-axial mass at the level of the pons, extending from the level of the caudal colliculi to the level of the cerebellar nuclei. The cat was subsequently euthanased and post-mortem histopathology was declined.  To our knowledge, this is the first case report of a pontine lesion causing trismus in a cat, and, although rare, should be considered as a differential diagnosis for trismus in the feline population.
A 15-year-old, spayed female domestic shorthair cat was evaluated for chronic progressive stertor, mucopurulent nasal discharge and intermittent apnoeic episodes. CT revealed a soft tissue mass occupying the nasopharynx and partially obstructing the choanae. Nasopharyngoscopy confirmed a firm, pale, multilobulated lesion. Partial endoscopic debulking of the mass was performed, although further sampling was limited by post-procedural haemorrhage. Histopathology demonstrated dense eosinophilic inflammation with marked sclerosing fibroplasia, consistent with feline eosinophilic sclerosing fibroplasia (FESF); no histological features suggestive of lymphoma, carcinoma, fungal disease or inflammatory polyps were identified. Prednisolone was initially administered to minimise the risk of post-procedural inflammatory nasopharyngeal stenosis and subsequently continued for 31 days after histological confirmation of FESF. Two months later, CT and nasopharyngoscopy demonstrated complete anatomical resolution with full remission of clinical signs. Nasopharyngeal involvement of FESF has not previously been reported; the condition is typically described in young to middle-aged cats with gastrointestinal disease. More recent reports describe its possible lymph node localisation in sites beyond the abdominal cavity. This case documents a geriatric-onset, extra-gastrointestinal presentation mimicking neoplasia or granulomatous disease. Diagnosis was achieved on biopsies obtained during partial debulking, and follow-up investigations confirmed complete anatomical resolution. This case expands the recognised anatomical and age spectrum of FESF and supports consideration of this entity in the differential diagnoses for nasopharyngeal masses in cats.
Cryptorchidism is a condition rarely encountered in cats, with a reported prevalence below 3.8%. In the canine species, it is known to predispose for both testicular torsion and neoplasia; therefore, cryptorchidectomy is recommended. Although neoplasia was previously described in feline cryptorchid testes, testicular torsion is a very rare condition in cats. This is the first description of testicular torsion in a non-neoplastic, abdominal testis of a tom cat. A 1-year-old male domestic longhair cat was admitted for elective orchidectomy. Physical examination revealed right unilateral cryptorchidism. The testis could be located within the abdomen upon ultrasonographic examination. Cryptorchidectomy and scrotal orchidectomy of the contralateral testis were performed. The abdominal testis appeared severely discoloured, exhibiting a dark blue coloration, and the spermatic cord was twisted. In contrast, the scrotal testis appeared normal. Surgery and postoperative recovery were uneventful. Histopathological examination of the abdominal testis revealed severe, diffuse congestion with marked interstitial haemorrhage and oedema affecting both the testis and epididymis. Spermatogenesis was arrested at the level of spermatogonia, and Sertoli-cell-only syndrome was observed, findings commonly associated with abdominal cryptorchid testes. The present case shows that testicular torsion is a potential complication of cryptorchidism in cats. Therefore, prevention of torsion may represent an additional indication for cryptorchidectomy, alongside the previously reported increased risk of neoplasia and the common reasons for neutering tomcats, such as population control and reduction of undesirable male behaviour. Testis torsion in a retained testis of a cat Cryptorchidism is a rare hereditary condition in cats where one or both testes fail to descend into the scrotum and are retained within either the abdomen or the inguinal canal. In dogs, the condition is known to predispose the animals to neoplastic growth and testicular torsion, a painful condition with the spermatic cord twisting around itself. Testicular torsion is thought to be very rare in cats. This is the first description of torsion affecting a testis retained within the abdomen. A 1-year-old, male domestic longhair cat was presented for a routine neutering procedure. Clinical examination showed that the right testis had failed to descend into the scrotum. Further diagnostic tests using ultrasound confirmed that it was retained within the abdomen. Surgery was subsequently performed to remove both the retained and the normally descended testes. During surgery, the retained testis was found to be twisted upon itself and showed severe, dark discoloration, implying tissue damage. The surgery and postoperative recovery were uneventful. The testicular tissues were examined microscopically, revealing bleeding and oedema, as well as loss of normal testicular function. The presented case shows that testicular torsion can occur in cryptorchid cats and supports an additional indication for removal of both undescended and descended testes.
A 2-year-old spayed female British Shorthair cat was presented with an acute onset of right-sided head tilt, circling and horizontal nystagmus. Neurological examination, CT and video-otoscopic evaluation confirmed a right-sided peripheral vestibular syndrome secondary to otitis media. The cat received cefixime (10 mg/kg PO q24h) and methylprednisolone (1 mg/kg PO q24h) for 2 weeks, resulting in marked improvement of vestibular signs by day 4. During the physical examination, multiple firm, non-painful subcutaneous nodules of varying sizes were palpated in different body regions, unrelated to the primary neurological complaint. Laboratory analysis revealed serum calcium, ionised calcium and phosphorus concentrations within reference intervals, with a calcium-phosphorus product below the threshold for metastatic calcification. Ultrasonographic and hormonal assessments excluded metabolic, iatrogenic and dystrophic causes. Histopathological examination of an excisional biopsy from the largest lesion revealed dermal collagen fibril calcification surrounded by a hypocellular fibrous capsule and mild lymphohistiocytic inflammation, consistent with calcinosis cutis. The clinical, laboratory and histopathological findings supported a diagnosis of multifocal idiopathic calcinosis cutis. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report from Türkiye describing multifocal subcutaneous idiopathic calcinosis cutis in a cat. This case emphasises the importance of thorough physical examinations to detect concurrent, clinically silent dermatological conditions during neurological evaluations. Idiopathic multifocal calcinosis cutis in a cat with vestibular syndrome A 2-year-old spayed female British Shorthair cat was presented with acute vestibular signs caused by otitis media. Clinical examination also revealed multiple firm, non-painful subcutaneous nodules in several body regions that were unrelated to the neurological signs. Serum calcium and phosphorus values were within reference intervals, and metabolic or iatrogenic causes were excluded. Histopathological examination of one lesion confirmed calcinosis cutis. The vestibular signs improved with medical treatment, while the cutaneous lesions remained stable. This case was diagnosed as multifocal idiopathic calcinosis cutis. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report from Türkiye describing a multifocal presentation in a cat. The case highlights the value of thorough physical examination in identifying clinically silent concurrent conditions.
 An 8.5-month-old female British Shorthair (case 1) and a 2-month-old female domestic shorthair (case 2) were referred for dyspnoea and lethargy. Echocardiography was compatible with unrestrictive patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) with continuous left-to-right shunting and concomitant iso-systemic pulmonary hypertension (PH) (case 1) and restrictive PDA with mild PH (case 2). Radiography showed cardiomegaly, increased pulmonary vascular markings and diffuse interstitial-alveolar pattern consistent with congestive heart failure (CHF) in both cats. After testing for pulmonary vascular reactivity (case 1) and treatment for acute CHF (case 2), surgical ligation of the PDA was attempted. In case 1, PDA ligation led to severe hypotension and asystole, prompting loosening of the ligature because of suspected intolerance to PDA closure. Cardiac massage was initiated and successfully restored the sinus rhythm. The procedure was aborted after partial PDA attenuation. Postoperative echocardiography raised suspicion of pulmonary artery ligation and supra-systemic right ventricle. No surgical revision was performed as the cat remained clinically stable; however, she died 10 days after surgery. In case 2, severe bradycardia developed 20 mins after duct ligation, followed by cardiorespiratory arrest unresponsive to resuscitation. Anatomopathological examination revealed main pulmonary artery and PDA ligation (case 1), and complete left pulmonary artery (LPA) ligation (case 2).  Inadvertent ligation of the pulmonary artery has been reported in human medicine, and to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report in cats. Prompt recognition and correction of such errors are critical for a favourable immediate perioperative outcome and improved long-term prognosis.
A 7-year-old neutered male domestic shorthair cat was presented for evaluation of a large intra-abdominal mass. Contrast-enhanced CT revealed a pedunculated hepatic mass measuring 15 × 9.5 × 6.5 cm arising from the papillary process of the caudate lobe, without evidence of metastasis. A three-port laparoscopic liver lobectomy was performed. The mass, attached by a torsed pedicle, was excised using a bipolar advanced energy vessel sealing device (ENSEAL; Ethicon). Histopathology confirmed a primary hepatic fibrosarcoma with complete resection. The cat recovered uneventfully, was discharged the following day and received five cycles of adjuvant doxorubicin (Adriamycin; Pfizer), maintaining an excellent quality of life and stable disease for at least 3 years. This is the first report of laparoscopic liver lobectomy in a cat with a large torsed hepatic mass. The case demonstrates that minimally invasive liver lobectomy can be successfully performed in feline patients, even in challenging cases involving substantial or torsed lobes. Removing a part of a cat liver using a minimally invasive surgery A 7-year-old male cat was found to have a large growth on his liver. Scans showed that the growth was attached by a twisted stalk, but there was no sign that it had spread elsewhere. The cat underwent a minimally invasive surgery, called a laparoscopic liver lobectomy, to remove the affected part of the liver. The growth was successfully removed, and laboratory testing confirmed it was a type of liver tumour called fibrosarcoma. The cat recovered very well from surgery and went home the next day. He also received additional chemotherapy to reduce the chance of the tumour coming back. Three years after the surgery, the cat remained healthy, happy and showed no signs of disease. This case is important because it is the first report of minimally invasive liver surgery being used in a cat with a large, twisted liver tumour. It shows that even complex liver problems in cats can be treated safely with less invasive techniques, which can help cats recover faster and maintain a good quality of life.
A 9-month-old castrated male Maine Coon cat developed tongue protrusion, mydriasis, generalised weakness and ataxia after routine application, as per label guidelines, of NexGard Spectra (Boehringer Ingelheim; active ingredients praziquantel 83 g/l, esafoxolaner 12 g/l, eprinomectin 4 g/l). The cat was managed conservatively for suspected macrocyclic lactone toxicity and made a complete recovery over 3 months. Further testing identified the cat was homozygous for ABCB11930_1931del TC, a recently identified variant for encoding for the drug transporter molecule P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Cats who are homozygous for ABCB11930_1931del TC have a non-functional P-gp. Because of this change, affected cats have an increased risk of neurotoxicity of macrocyclic lactone and other P-gp substrate drugs, as seen in this case.  This is the first documented case of a cat homozygous for ABCB11930_1931del TC in Australia with macrocyclic lactone toxicity after administration of an eprinomectin-containing product at label doses. Further awareness of this genetic variant and implications in use of substrate drugs, including new generation macrocyclic lactones, are required to improve the safety of these products in the general cat population. This includes the development and promotion of commercially available screening tests to facilitate personalised treatment advice.
A 14-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat was referred for evaluation of a laryngeal mass. The cat had a 2-month history of stridor and hoarseness, without any reported decrease in appetite. Laryngeal ultrasonography, fluoroscopy, endoscopy and contrast-enhanced CT revealed a 1.7 cm laryngeal mass without metastasis. A biopsy obtained under laryngoscopic guidance confirmed squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The cat underwent stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT) in three 10 Gy fractions on consecutive days (total 30 Gy). Mild drooling occurred during treatment and was controlled with prednisolone. A partial response was achieved 45 days after SRT, with improvement in presenting signs. The cat maintained remission without late adverse effects until day 520; however, progressive disease was evident on day 603, and the cat died on day 644.  Feline laryngeal SCC is rare, carries a poor prognosis and lacks established treatment protocols. Traditional surgery, such as laryngotomy with or without tracheostomy, often leads to severe or fatal complications. Evidence on radiation therapy in this tumour type is limited. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of long-term remission in a cat with laryngeal SCC treated with SRT.
Case summary An 8-year-old, male neutered domestic shorthair cat was presented with acute onset of ataxia, apathy, hypersalivation and anorexia. Clinical examination revealed a swollen, bluish tongue tip, neurological deficits, hypothermia, hypotension and a left-sided systolic heart murmur with arrhythmia. Blood pressure was initially low but normalised after dobutamine therapy. Thoracic radiographs revealed cardiomegaly, and echocardiography confirmed a hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) phenotype with severe left atrial dilation, spontaneous echo contrast and suspected thrombus formation. MRI of the head showed absent contrast enhancement in the rostral two-thirds of the tongue and signal changes consistent with lingual infarction. Doppler ultrasound confirmed absent blood flow in the affected tongue region. Based on imaging, cardiac findings and clinical signs, a lingual artery thromboembolism was considered the most likely diagnosis. The patient was treated with anticoagulant therapy and supportive care, but because of worsening tongue swelling, functional impairment and underlying advanced heart disease, euthanasia was elected. Relevance and novel information To the authors' knowledge, this case represents the first reported case of feline arterial thromboembolism affecting the lingual artery. Although HCM was the presumed cause, other thromboembolic risk factors, such as hyperthyroidism, could not be definitively excluded. This case emphasises the need to consider atypical thromboembolic presentations in cats with cardiac disease and highlights the diagnostic value of advanced imaging modalities in identifying uncommon sites of arterial obstruction. Tongue necrosis due to a suspected arterial blood clot in a cat with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy An 8-year-old, male neutered domestic shorthair cat was examined because of a sudden onset of poor coordination, lethargy, excessive drooling and refusal to eat. On clinical examination, the tip of the tongue was swollen and blue in colour, suggesting poor blood supply. The cat also had low body temperature, low blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythm and a heart murmur. Imaging of the chest and heart showed severe heart disease consistent with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, including marked enlargement of the left atrium and changes suggesting an increased risk of blood clot formation. Advanced imaging of the head demonstrated a lack of blood supply to the front portion of the tongue, consistent with tissue death (infarction). Doppler ultrasound confirmed the absence of blood flow to the affected area of the tongue. Based on the clinical signs, imaging findings and underlying heart disease, a blood clot blocking the lingual artery was considered the most likely cause of the tongue infarction. Despite treatment with anticoagulant medication and supportive care, the tongue swelling progressed, leading to severe functional impairment. Given the poor prognosis associated with both the tongue injury and the advanced heart disease, euthanasia was elected. This case is the first reported instance of an arterial thromboembolism affecting the lingual artery in a cat. It highlights that blood clots in cats with heart disease can affect unusual locations and demonstrates the importance of advanced imaging techniques in identifying uncommon sites of arterial obstruction.
A 6-year-old castrated male domestic shorthair cat was presented with a 1-month history of cough, weight loss and partial anorexia, unresponsive to corticosteroid therapy. Initial imaging revealed bronchiectasis and pneumonia in the accessory lung lobe due to an inhaled grass awn, which was successfully removed via bronchoscopy. Subsequent clinical deterioration prompted further investigation, which identified a hepatic abscess containing a vegetal foreign body. The foreign body was suspected to have migrated through the diaphragm from the respiratory system. Surgical exploration confirmed the hepatic lesion. The grass awn was localised and extracted using intraoperative ultrasonographic guidance, avoiding the need for hepatic lobectomy. The cat recovered uneventfully with long-term antibiotic therapy. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a hepatic abscess caused by the migration of a grass awn foreign body in a cat. It is also the first report of intraoperative ultrasonography to localise and extract a non-visible plant-based foreign body within the deep hepatic parenchyma in this species. This case highlights the value of integrating advanced imaging modalities such as CT for preoperative planning and intraoperative ultrasonography to enable targeted and minimally invasive surgical interventions. This approach minimises the need for extensive procedures, reduces associated risks and promotes successful clinical outcomes. A liver abscess caused by a swallowed plant fragment in a cat: a world-first and a new surgical approach The problem: Cats can accidentally inhale small plant seeds (like grass awns). These seeds are dangerous because they have microscopic barbs that allow them to ‘crawl’ through the body’s tissues. They carry bacteria with them, often causing severe infections far from where they originally entered. The case: A 6-year-old cat was treated for a cough and weight loss. Doctors first found and removed a plant fragment from his lung using a small camera (bronchoscopy). However, the cat’s health worsened, and further scans revealed a second problem: a deep infection (abscess) in the liver. A second plant fragment had travelled from the lungs, pierced through the diaphragm (the muscle used for breathing) and lodged itself deep inside the liver tissue. The treatment: This is the first time such a migration from the respiratory system to the liver has been described in a cat. To treat it, the surgical team used a minimally invasive approach. Instead of removing a large piece of the liver (a risky and heavy surgery called a lobectomy), they used an ultrasound probe directly on the liver during the operation. This allowed them to see the hidden seed deep inside the organ and pull it out with small forceps. Why it matters: The cat made a full recovery with long-term antibiotics. This case is important because it shows that plant seeds can travel between different organs like the lungs and the liver. It also demonstrates that using advanced imaging, like ultrasound, during surgery allows veterinarians to perform much safer and more precise operations. This approach reduces risks and helps pets recover faster by avoiding more aggressive and invasive procedures.
A 2-year-old female spayed domestic shorthair cat presented with acute left pelvic limb lameness after suspected trauma. Orthopaedic and radiographic findings were consistent with rupture of the medial collateral and caudal cruciate ligaments. Surgical exploration identified complete rupture of the caudal cruciate and medial collateral ligaments, as well as a crushed medial meniscus, necessitating partial medial meniscectomy. Primary repair of the medial collateral ligament was performed and a Mini TightRope (Arthrex) prosthesis was positioned to concurrently aid stifle stability following the rupture of the two ligaments. At 8 weeks postoperatively, the cat demonstrated normal gait and pain-free stifle manipulation, with radiographs confirming implant stability and no complications. No lameness was reported by the owner 2 years postoperatively. This is the first case report of the use of bone tunnels and a Mini TightRope implant to address complete medial collateral and caudal cruciate ligament rupture and stabilise the stifle in a cat. This novel technique allowed for stabilisation without the need for external coaptation, enabling an early return to function. Repairing two torn knee ligaments in a cat with a single implant A 2-year-old cat suddenly became lame on one back leg after an injury. Examination and radiographs showed that two important knee (stifle) ligaments – the medial collateral ligament and the caudal cruciate ligament – were torn. During surgery, both ligaments were confirmed to be completely ruptured, and part of the medial meniscus (a cushioning cartilage) was also found to be damaged and was removed. The torn medial collateral ligament was repaired, and the knee was stabilised using a Mini TightRope (Arthrex) implant placed through small bone tunnels. This single implant provided support for both injured ligaments. The cat walked normally and was pain free 8 weeks after surgery. Radiographs showed the implant was stable and there were no complications. Two years later, the cat remained sound with no lameness. This is the first reported case of using a Mini TightRope in a cat to stabilise both of these ligaments at once. The technique provided strong internal stabilisation, avoided the need for an external brace or cast and allowed the cat to regain normal function quickly.
Three skeletally immature cats were treated for pectus excavatum using a modified video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) technique that involved using a thoracoscopic cannula to intraoperatively ventrally displace affected sternebrae, thereby assisting the placement of circumsternal sutures while simultaneously protecting underlying viscera. All cases recovered well from their procedure, and the described technique was successful in allowing good radiographic improvement of pectus excavatum in all cases. No intraoperative complications were encountered and all cases were judged as having an excellent outcome. Routine VATS-assisted correction of pectus excavatum is possible in cats but may not confer any obvious advantage over traditional 'blind' placement of sutures owing to the difficulty in visualising the target sternebrae during surgery. The modification described here, in which the sternum is pushed ventrally, makes subsequent placement of percutaneous sutures easier while simultaneously reducing the risk of viscus penetration. It may therefore reduce the risks inherent in this procedure and has potential to be the treatment of choice for this condition. Use of a modified keyhole surgical technique to treat ‘funnel chest’ in three kittens Funnel chest can be treated by using a splint to realign the breastbone. This can be done either ‘blind’ or by using keyhole surgery to guide the passage of sutures (stitches) around the breastbone. Keyhole surgery can be very tricky in such small, young patients, so we have modified the technique and now use one of the instruments to help ‘push’ the breastbone into a normal position. This then makes it easier and potentially safer to pass the suture around. We report using this new technique in three kittens, all of which went on to do very well.
A 5-month-old intact female Russian Blue cat presented with continuous urinary incontinence and intermittent haematuria. Retrograde vaginourethrography and contrast-enhanced CT revealed absence of distinct urethral and vaginal structures, with a single tubular lumen extending from the bladder to the vulva. Cystoscopy and exploratory laparotomy confirmed the absence of the uterine body and vagina, while bilateral uterine horns were present and both ureters inserted normally into the urinary bladder. These findings suggested partial persistent urogenital sinus (PPUS) rather than a complete form. Medical management failed to improve the incontinence, and urethral plication was performed without artificial urethral sphincter (AUS) implantation. The cat regained voluntary urination immediately, and continence was maintained for 741 days without recurrence or complications.  To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of long-term urinary continence achieved in a cat with PPUS using urethral plication alone, without AUS implantation. The case highlights the practicality and cost-effectiveness of urethral plication as a minimally invasive alternative surgical technique for young or small cats. Successful surgical treatment of urinary incontinence in a cat with an abnormal connection between the urinary and reproductive tracts Some cats are born with abnormalities of the urinary and reproductive organs that can lead to lifelong urinary incontinence. In this report, we describe a young female cat who continuously leaked urine from an early age because of an abnormal connection between the urinary tract and reproductive tract. Detailed imaging and surgical exploration showed that the structures connecting the kidneys to the bladder were normal, but the lower part of the urinary outlet was abnormally wide. This abnormal anatomy made it difficult for the cat to retain urine normally. The cat was treated using a surgical technique called urethral plication. This procedure involves placing sutures around part of the urinary outlet to gently narrow it and improve urine control, without using any artificial devices. This approach was chosen because it is reversible, does not involve implants and may be safer in young or small animals. After surgery, the cat showed marked improvement, with no further urine leakage. The cat was followed for more than 2 years after surgery, and normal urination was maintained without complications. This case demonstrates that urethral plication can be an effective treatment option for urinary incontinence caused by congenital anatomical abnormalities in cats. It also highlights the importance of careful anatomical assessment when managing urinary disorders in young animals.
A 9-year-old intact female domestic shorthair cat was evaluated for lethargy, vaginal discharge and intermittent perineal swelling that resolved after urination. Ultrasonography revealed severe uterine enlargement consistent with pyometra. During ovariohysterectomy, the urinary bladder was found retroflexed into the pelvic canal and manually repositioned. Despite initial improvement, perineal swelling recurred. CT confirmed persistent urinary bladder retroflexion in the absence of perineal hernia, pelvic trauma or pelvic canal mass. Exploratory celiotomy demonstrated complete absence of the ventral and left lateral vesical ligaments, providing a structural explanation for the recurrent displacement. The bladder was surgically stabilised with an incisional cystopexy, resulting in an uneventful recovery and no recurrence over 7 years. Urinary bladder retroflexion is exceptionally rare in cats and has been described only in association with pelvic disruption or perineal hernia. This case is the first to describe bladder retroflexion in a cat independent of pelvic diaphragm failure and instead driven by severe uterine distension from pyometra. The case introduces a previously unrecognised pathophysiological mechanism in which chronic uterine enlargement exerts caudal traction on the bladder, potentially compromising vesical ligament integrity and permitting retroflexion. These findings expand current understanding of the factors influencing bladder positioning in cats and demonstrate that reproductive tract pathology alone can lead to bladder malposition. Long-term resolution after incisional cystopexy underscores the effectiveness of surgical stabilisation when bladder support structures are deficient. This case broadens the differential diagnosis for perineal swelling in female cats and highlights pyometra-induced uterine distension as an under-recognised cause of urinary bladder displacement.
A 19-year-old, spayed female domestic shorthair cat was referred with diabetes mellitus and difficulties in achieving glycemic control. Hypersomatotropism (HST) was diagnosed based on clinical signs compatible with acromegaly (prognathia inferior, broad facial features and abdominal enlargement), increased serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) concentration (4430 ng/ml) and pituitary enlargement (height 4.7 mm). Serum IGF-1 concentrations, biochemical analysis and urinalysis were performed at the time of HST diagnosis and after 10, 20, 30, 60, 120 and 180 days of pegvisomant treatment (PEGV, Somarvet; Pfizer). The cat received PEGV (1 mg/kg SC q24h) in combination with cabergoline (10 μg/kg PO q48h). Serum IGF-1 concentrations decreased abruptly to 396 ng/ml on day 10 of PEGV treatment and blood glucose concentrations also decreased rapidly. Insulin was no longer required after 7 days of PEGV. From day 30 (IGF-1 286 ng/ml), PEGV was administered q48h and the same therapeutic response was maintained after 60 days of treatment (IGF-1 290 ng/ml and diabetic remission). From day 120, PEGV was administered once weekly and normal IGF-1 concentrations (270 ng/ml) were observed after 180 days of treatment. The cat also showed improvements in echocardiographic variables and in her quality of life (QoL) score. This is the first reported case of PEGV plus cabergoline treatment in a cat with HST. The results suggest that the combined treatment of PEGV and cabergoline was associated with normalization of IGF-1 concentrations, diabetic remission, and improvement of cardiovascular function and QoL over a short period. Successful use of combined treatment of pegvisomant and cabergoline to treat a cat with excess growth hormone A 19-year-old female cat was presented with diabetes mellitus that was difficult to control. Physical examination revealed features suggestive of a growth hormone disorder, such as an enlarged lower jaw, broad facial features and abdominal distension. Further testing confirmed hypersomatotropism (excess growth hormone) based on high serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels and an enlarged pituitary gland. The cat was treated with cabergoline and pegvisomant, a drug that blocks the action of growth hormone. After starting treatment, blood glucose levels decreased rapidly, and insulin therapy was discontinued within 1 week. IGF-1 levels dropped sharply within 10 days and remained within the normal range throughout the 6 months of treatment. Frequency of pegvisomant dosing was gradually reduced from daily to once weekly while maintaining good control. In addition to diabetic remission, improvements in heart function and overall quality of life were observed. This case represents the first report of pegvisomant used in combination with cabergoline in a cat with hypersomatotropism and suggests that this therapy can effectively normalize hormone levels, resolve diabetes, and improve clinical condition and quality of life in affected cats.
A 2-year-old, indoor domestic shorthair cat presented with a 3-week history of a progressively growing subconjunctival nodule on the right upper eyelid. Fine-needle aspiration was performed and the sample was submitted for cytological examination. The nodule became an ulceration near the lateral canthus within 1 week after application of ofloxacin-prednisolone eye drops. Yeasts of Sporothrix species were detected and treatment was initiated with itraconazole. As the ulcerated nodule continued to progress, the regimen was modified to terbinafine combined with high-dose itraconazole. Sporothrix schenckii complex was diagnosed from fungal culture, and the antifungal testing reported itraconazole resistance. However, the ulceration showed responsiveness to the combined treatment by day 43. Finally, the ulcerated eyelid was healed after 5 months of antifungal therapy. No recurrence of ocular sporotrichosis was detected at the termination of antifungal medications after 2 years. Feline sporotrichosis is commonly reported in tropical countries; however, localised nodules and eyelid ulcerations due to S schenckii infection are generally uncommon. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of localised ocular sporotrichosis in a cat in Thailand. Furthermore, although itraconazole resistance was detected in the fungal culture, the combination of high-dose itraconazole and terbinafine proved effective in treating a cat infected with a non-wild-type S schenckii complex in the current study.
A 14-year-old spayed female Scottish Fold cat was presented to a private veterinary clinic for a health check. Radiography revealed a nodule measuring 1.0 cm diameter in the cranial segment of the cranial lobe of the left lung. On day 12, non-contrast-enhanced CT revealed a well-defined pulmonary nodule measuring 1.7 cm in diameter in the same area. On day 48, the nodule in the cranial segment of the left cranial lobe was resected by lobectomy. The nodule was firm and pale pink in surface colour. Microscopically, the mass was adjacent to the bronchi and bronchial glands and was composed of luminal cells forming the duct structure and an outer layer of non-luminal cells with squamoid differentiation. Tumour cells partially invaded into the surrounding parenchyma. Immunohistochemically, the luminal cells were positive for cytokeratin (CK) AE1/AE3, CK7, CK19, thyroid transcription factor-1 and human epidermal growth factor 2. Non-luminal cells were positive for CK AE1/AE3, p63, calponin, smooth muscle actin and p40. The Ki-67 indices of the luminal and non-luminal cells were 10.4% and 12.8%, respectively. Based on these findings, the tumour was diagnosed as a pulmonary epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma with high-grade transformation as defined in the human World Health Organization classification. This is the first report of pulmonary epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma with high-grade transformation characterised by morphology and immunohistochemistry. A rare type of lung cancer in a cat identified using microscopic and special staining techniques This report describes a rare type of lung cancer in a cat. A 14-year-old spayed female Scottish Fold cat was taken to a veterinary clinic for a routine health check. Chest imaging unexpectedly revealed a small mass in the left lung. Follow-up CT confirmed a well-defined lung nodule, and surgical removal of the affected lung lobe was performed. Examination of the removed tissue under the microscope showed that the tumour was made up of two different types of cells. One type formed small duct-like structures, while the other type surrounded these ducts and showed features similar to cells normally found in gland-supporting tissue. Some tumour cells had begun to grow into the surrounding lung tissue. Special laboratory staining tests were used to better understand the nature of the tumour cells. These tests confirmed that the two cell populations had different biological characteristics, supporting the diagnosis of a rare biphasic lung tumour. The growth activity of the tumour cells was higher than typically seen in low-grade tumours. Based on these findings, the tumour was diagnosed as a pulmonary epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma with features similar to a more aggressive form described in human medicine. Although this type of lung tumour has been reported in people, it has not previously been described in cats. This case provides new information about rare lung tumours in cats and may help veterinarians and pathologists better recognise and diagnose similar cases in the future.
A 12-year-old spayed female Ragdoll cat was treated with chemotherapy for gastric large B-cell lymphoma. Adverse effects included neutropenia and thrombocytopenia (day 132) and transient prednisolone-induced diabetes mellitus (day 209). On day 209, urinalysis revealed yeast, and Candida tropicalis was cultured. Concurrent findings included mild azotaemia, hyperglobulinaemia, right renomegaly and renal pelvic dilation. Chemotherapy was discontinued, and fungal pyelonephritis was treated with oral fluconazole (50 mg q12h). By day 244, progressive right renal pelvic and ureteral dilation with echogenic ureteral material was noted. Management included placement of a subcutaneous ureteral bypass device (SUB), extended oral fluconazole (137 days), fluconazole administration into the renal pelvis via the SUB (10 days) and intravenous caspofungin (10 days). At final follow-up (day 1306), the cat remained clinically well, non-azotaemic, with a patent SUB, reduced kidney size and no recurrence of fungal urinary tract infection, lymphoma or diabetes. This is the second report of feline Candida species pyelonephritis treated with a SUB, and the first of topical antifungal treatment using a nephrostomy tube, resolution of predisposing factors and a successful long-term outcome.
This case series documents the occurrence of isorhythmic atrioventricular dissociation (IAVD) in three anesthetized cats. There are several proposed mechanisms for the development of this dysrhythmia. The cardinal feature of IAVD is that the atrial and junctional rates are roughly equivalent, which aids in ruling out more severe types of atrioventricular dissociation (such as complete heart block), where atrial and ventricular rates are different. Two cats were treated with anticholinergic medication when hemodynamic variables indicated that the loss of coordinated cardiac conduction had negatively affected cardiovascular function as indicated by arterial hypotension. In one cat, IAVD was not considered to negatively affect the cat's hemodynamic status and anticholinergic medication was not administered. In this cat, IAVD spontaneously resolved. Although this rhythm disturbance has been clinically recognized to manifest in domestic felids under general anesthesia, there remains a paucity of literature regarding the development, recognition and treatment of IAVD in this species. From extensive clinical experience, the authors consider this rhythm to occur frequently in clinical practice, and it behooves the feline anesthetist to be familiar and comfortable with the recognition and treatment of this dysrhythmia.
This study describes three cases of feline Mycobacterium bovis infection diagnosed in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Cats presented with variable clinical signs, including lymphadenopathy, respiratory distress, and granulomatous retinopathy. Diagnosis was confirmed by cytology, culture, PCR and spoligotyping, identifying two distinct patterns (SB0140 and SB1780). All cats received a combination therapy of rifampicin, clarithromycin and doxycycline, achieving full recovery in two cases and treatment failure in one. The consistent diagnostic protocol allowed molecular epidemiological characterization. A raw meat diet was identified as a potential source of infection in one case. This report provides a comprehensive clinical, molecular and therapeutic description of feline M bovis infection, emphasizing its zoonotic relevance and the need for One Health collaboration. Tuberculosis in pet cats caused by Mycobacterium bovis: three cases from Buenos Aires, Argentina Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that can affect both animals and people. In cats, it is uncommon but can cause serious illness and may pose a risk to public health. This article describes three pet cats from Buenos Aires, Argentina, who were diagnosed with tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium bovis, a bacterium commonly associated with cattle. The cats showed different clinical signs, including swollen lymph nodes, breathing difficulties, eye lesions and general illness. A combination of laboratory tests, including microscopic examination, bacterial culture and molecular techniques, was used to confirm the diagnosis and to identify the type of bacteria involved. Two different bacterial patterns were found, which helps improve understanding of how this disease circulates in the region. All cats were treated with a combination of three antibiotics commonly used to manage mycobacterial infections. Two of the cats responded well to treatment and fully recovered, while one did not survive despite therapy. In one case, feeding raw meat was identified as a possible source of infection. These cases highlight the importance of considering tuberculosis as a possible diagnosis in sick cats, especially in areas where M bovis is present. The findings also emphasize the need for cooperation between veterinarians and public health professionals to reduce the risk of transmission between animals and humans.