Dorlis C. DVM, GPcertSAS, MRCVS, Resident of European College of Veterinary Surgeons, University of Edinburgh, Hospital for Small Animals, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9RG | Arce M.G. Resident in Small Animal Emergency & Critical Care, University of Edinburgh, Hospital for Small Animals, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9RG | Llewellyn E. BVetMed, DipACVECC, DipECVECC, Senior Lecturer in Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care, University of Edinburgh, Hospital for Small Animals, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9RG | Ryan J. MVB CertSAS Dipl.ECVS MRCVS RCVS & European Veterinary Specialist in Small Animal Surgery, Lecturer in Small Animal Orthopaedics, University of Edinburgh, Hospital for Small Animals, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9RG
Introduction
Gastric ulceration is an uncommon condition in feline patients. Surgical intervention is indicated in cases of perforation and subsequent peritonitis or in cases with uncontrollable life-threatening bleeding. The aim of this report is to describe the successful management of cat presented with severe anemia due to gastric ulcer.
Clinical case
A 10-year-old female neutered Maine Coon cat presented to the Emergency Service with weakness and severe anemia (PCV: 13%). On abdominal ultrasound a perforating gastric ulcer at the pyloric antrum with associated local peritonitis, cholecystitis, and pancreatitis was diagnosed. Xenotransfusion with canine blood was administered before surgery. The patient underwent emergency surgery and surgical resection of the ulcer and Y-U pyloroplasty was performed.
Results
The patient remained in the intensive care unit, and she was discharged three days later. The patient remained symptoms free at 2- and 8-week re-examinations with an increase in haematocrit levels noted at two weeks postoperatively (PCV: 23%).
Conclusions
Hemorrhagic anemia due to gastric ulceration although rare, needs to be included in the differential of severe anemia in cats. Xenotransfusion can be considered as a lifesaving procedure in cases where feline blood products are not immediately available.
