Unilateral squamous cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis with hydronephrosis in a cat

A 4-year-old female neutered domestic shorthair cat was presented for evaluation of gradual onset of lethargy and anorexia. Physical examination revealed moderate abdominal distension. Investigations performed included complete blood count, serum biochemistry, urinalysis, pyelocentesis, abdominal fluid analysis, abdominal ultrasonography and exploratory celiotomy. Nephrectomy was performed on the hydronephrotic kidney and a sample of the omentum was also taken, as it was grossly abnormal. No other abnormalities were found in the remainder of the abdominal organs. Findings were consistent with unilateral hydronephrosis and squamous cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis with abdominal carcinomatosis. The patient was given supportive treatment while the results of the biopsies from the renal tissue and the omentum were pending. The patient deteriorated a short time after surgical intervention and was euthanased. This is the first report of a squamous cell carcinoma arising from the renal pelvis in a cat. A comparison with the disease presentation in humans is also discussed.