5-year-old Persian cat with large intestine obstruction. Diagnosis and conclusions
The patient is a 5-year-old domestic Persian cat named Scarlett. Mrs. Jennifer, a caring pet owner, brought Scarlett in on a cold and damp morning seeking assistance for her beloved pet.
Remote Gastroenterology
Mrs Jennifer mentioned that Scarlett seemed less energetic, wasn't eating properly, had concerning litter box habits, and had lost her interest in food.
Fig 1. Photo of Scarlett at the clinic
I began the clinical assessment with a detailed physical exam. Scarlett's belly felt swollen, suggesting a possible issue in her digestive system. I carefully checked Scarlett's tummy and found a larger mass, which raised concerns about a potential blockage or irregularity. Listening with a stethoscope showed unusual bowel sounds, leading to a more thorough investigation. I began running tests to assess Scarlett's health.
Fig 2: X-ray revealed megacolon
I performed blood tests and X-rays to gain a clear understanding of Scarlett's condition. The results indicated an elevated white blood cell count and imbalances in electrolytes. The X-ray showed megacolon, an abnormal enlargement of the colon, confirming severe constipation due to a substantial accumulation of stool in the colon.
Personalized Treatment
I started giving Scarlett fluids right away to help with dehydration, making sure to carefully handle her electrolyte levels. I also put together a personalized treatment plan that includes laxatives and stool softeners (Epsom salts 2–5 g, PO route).
As time went by, Scarlett's condition stayed unstable. No matter how hard I tried and the treatments I initially administered, Scarlett's condition proved difficult to handle.
As time went by, Scarlett's condition stayed unstable. No matter how hard I tried and the treatments I initially administered, Scarlett's condition proved difficult to handle.
Remote consultation
Knowing how complex the megacolon case can be, I decided to reach out to a specialist for advice. I got in touch with a highly respected veterinary gastrointestinal specialist using an online consultation platform via the DRVET.CH app
He thoroughly reviewed Scarlett's case, discussing her medical history, clinical examination results, and X-ray. He recommended a comprehensive approach and suggested using an innovative app to monitor Scarlett's resting respiratory rates and proposing a colectomy.
To ease Scarlett's discomfort and address the megacolon, the recommendation was a surgical procedure called subtotal colectomy. During the surgery, a significant blockage of stool was cleared, and a section of the colon was removed to enhance the long-term outlook.
He thoroughly reviewed Scarlett's case, discussing her medical history, clinical examination results, and X-ray. He recommended a comprehensive approach and suggested using an innovative app to monitor Scarlett's resting respiratory rates and proposing a colectomy.
To ease Scarlett's discomfort and address the megacolon, the recommendation was a surgical procedure called subtotal colectomy. During the surgery, a significant blockage of stool was cleared, and a section of the colon was removed to enhance the long-term outlook.
Recommendation
Scarlett is recovering from gastrointestinal surgery, under a specialist's remote monitoring. To ensure Scarlett's recovery goes well at home, the specialist suggests using Boehringer Ingelheim My Pet´s Heart2Heart app. This app helps monitor Scarlett's resting respiratory rates, spotting any issues early.
Fig 3. Boehringer Ingelheim My Pet´s Heart2Heart app, which helps monitor resting respiratory rates
Additionally, the specialist recommends including Hill's Prescription Diet (science diet) Gastrointestinal Biome in Scarlett's meals. This special food from Hill's is made to support digestive health and assist Scarlett's recovery.
Fig 4. Hill's Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome
By using both the monitoring app and this prescribed dietary plan, Scarlett's home care becomes more effective, ensuring better management of gastrointestinal health during recovery.
Outcome
The combined approach of using the Boehringer Ingelheim app for remote monitoring and integrating Hill's Prescription Diet proved successful. Scarlett's recovery progress was closely monitored through the app, and the specialized diet played a crucial role in sustaining gastrointestinal health. Scarlett showed gradual improvement, with the early detection capabilities of the app helping to address minor concerns promptly. The comprehensive care plan contributed to Scarlett's overall well-being, ensuring a smooth recovery from the challenging post-operative period.
Ready to communicate?
Yes, I want to join DRVET
Pierre Starkov
Co-founder DRVET
Daniel Pereira
Co-founder DRVET