Identification of Streptococcus suis in a cat with endomyocarditis

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Cardiology

Background:

• Streptococcus suis is an emerging pathogen with zoonotic potential.
• Endomyocarditis is a serious cardiac condition affecting domestic animals.
• Fever of unknown origin in cats can indicate underlying infectious or inflammatory processes.

Observation:

• A 3-year-old cat presented with a prolonged fever and a heart murmur.
• Thoracic radiography revealed congestive heart failure.
• Echocardiography indicated endomyocarditis, with subsequent blood cultures identifying Streptococcus suis.

Findings:

• The cat was diagnosed with Streptococcus suis bacteremia and endomyocarditis.
• Despite treatment, the cat's condition deteriorated, leading to euthanasia.
• This case represents the first reported instance of S. suis bacteremia associated with endomyocarditis in felines.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of blood cultures for diagnosing fever in cats.
• Emphasizes echocardiography's role in monitoring hemodynamic changes in infective endocarditis.
• Underscores the need for increased awareness of Streptococcus suis as a potential feline pathogen.