Holeva P. DVM, Intern Veterinarian, Surgery and Obstetrics Unit, Companion Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki | Elekidou E. DVM, MSc, PhD student, Surgery and Obstetrics Unit, Companion Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki | Ververidis C. DVM, PhD, Associate Professor, Surgery and Obstetrics Unit, Companion Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Introduction
Feline mammary hyperplasia or fibroadenomatous hyperplasia (MH) is characterized by intense enlargement of one or more mammary glands under the influence of endogenous or iatrogenically administered progesterone. This condition most commonly occurs in young female cats in diestrus or pregnancy and in cats that have received progestogens. A case of MH and its management is described.
Clinical case
A 6-month-old, intact female cat with hydrocephalus and history of epileptic seizures was presented due to gradual mammary enlargement during the last month. Clinical examination revealed an asymmetric skull and enlargement of the thoracic mammary glands, which were firm, warm and painful, with enlarged nipples, red fluctuant nipple-areola, thin skin and suspected incipient abscess formation. The progesterone was 1 – 2.5 ng ml-1, measured indirectly with canine ovulation test. Ovariohysterectomy was easily performed through flank approach and amoxicillin / clavulanic acid was administered for 10 days to treat possible concurrent mastitis.
Results
Mastitis was prevented and MH was reduced about 50% in 2 weeks and completely in one month, while no relapse occurred in the next 6 years.
Conclusions
Ovariohysterectomy is recommended in cases of MH to achieve immediate pausing of the progesterone production. The indicated flank incision was performed easily.
