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Lead toxicosis in cats-a review
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA 01536, USA. tknight327@aol.com
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
|September 2, 2003
Summary
Feline lead toxicosis, often from old paint during home renovation, presents with vague signs like anorexia and seizures. Early diagnosis and treatment, including chelation therapy with succimer, improve prognosis for cats.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Toxicology
- Animal Health
Background:
- Lead toxicosis remains a significant health concern in small animals, despite declining incidence.
- A review of 70 feline lead toxicosis cases over 45 years highlights its persistent threat.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the literature on feline lead toxicosis.
- To detail sources, clinical signs, diagnostic methods, pathology, and treatment options for lead poisoning in cats.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of feline lead toxicosis cases spanning 45 years.
- Analysis of reported sources, clinical manifestations, diagnostic test results, pathological findings, and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- Old paint from home renovation was the source in 84% of feline cases.
- Common signs include anorexia, vomiting, and seizures, with younger cats more prone to central nervous system effects.
- Blood lead concentration is the gold standard diagnostic, though erythropoietic protoporphyrin and urine aminolevulinic acid tests are also discussed.
- Pathology includes liver discoloration and inclusion bodies in liver/renal tissues; CNS changes involve neuronal necrosis and demyelination.
- Succimer is a safe and effective oral chelator for treatment.
Conclusions:
- Feline lead toxicosis is often underdiagnosed due to vague, non-specific signs.
- A high index of suspicion is crucial, especially when home renovation is involved.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment, including environmental decontamination and chelation, lead to a good prognosis.