Gastric diverticula in six cats: a case series (2011-2020)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Comparative Pathology

Background:

• Gastric diverticulum (GD) is a rare condition in animals, with no prior reports in feline species.
• Cats with GD often present with non-specific gastrointestinal signs like chronic vomiting, weight loss, and anorexia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the first documented cases of gastric diverticulum in cats.
• To evaluate the diagnostic utility of negative contrast radiography for feline GD.
• To assess the outcomes of surgical intervention for GD in cats.

Main Methods:

• A case series of six cats diagnosed with gastric diverticulum.
• Diagnosis was confirmed using negative contrast radiography.
• Surgical resection via partial gastrectomy was performed in five cats.

Main Results:

• Negative contrast radiography proved effective for diagnosing feline GD.
• Surgical resection of GD was associated with a reduction in clinical signs in the affected cats.
• Maine Coon cats were over-represented in this case series.

Conclusions:

• Gastric diverticulum should be considered in the differential diagnosis for cats with chronic, unexplained gastrointestinal disorders.
• Negative contrast radiography is a recommended diagnostic imaging modality for feline GD.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the clinical implications of GD in cats, particularly in the absence of other comorbidities.