Body stalk anomalies and their relationship to amniotic band disruption complex in six cats

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to investigate the appearance of body stalk anomalies (BSAs) and amniotic band disruption complex (ABDC) in cats (Felis catus), classify these congenital conditions using a system originally developed for humans and pigs, and provide new insights into the aetiopathogenesis.MethodsSix cats suspected of having BSAs and/or ABDC were examined. The classification system for BSA, which includes eight types, was applied to these cases. Detailed observations were made regarding physical deformities, presence of amniotic adhesions and degree of impairment. A comparative analysis with similar conditions in pigs and humans was carried out to highlight differences and similarities.ResultsTwo of the eight BSA classifications used in human and porcine congenital anomalies were detected in the six cats. In the studied cases, the degree of severity was lower than in pigs. The abnormalities associated with BSAs were attributed to the effect of amniotic bands on already formed organs or to the disruption of organ development, leading to a cascade of abnormal events.Conclusions and relevanceThis study is the first to describe and classify BSAs and ABDC in cats and provides valuable insights into these congenital anomalies. The findings highlight significant differences and similarities between cats and other species, particularly pigs. Understanding the aetiopathogenesis of these conditions is essential to improve clinical management and prognosis. Surgical correction and supportive care can improve the quality of life of affected cats, depending on the severity of the condition. Continued research and collaboration are essential to advance the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of BSAs and ABDC in cats, with wider implications for congenital anomalies across species.Plain language summaryThis study aims to explore body stalk anomalies (BSAs) and amniotic band disruption complex (ABDC) in cats (Felis catus). It classifies these conditions using a system developed for humans and pigs and seeks to understand their causes and management in cats. Six cats with suspected BSAs and/or ABDC were examined. The classification system for BSA, which includes eight types, was applied to these cases. Observations focused on physical deformities, amniotic adhesions and the severity of the conditions. Comparisons were made with similar conditions in pigs and humans. Two of the eight BSA classifications used in human and porcine congenital anomalies were detected in the six cats. In this study, the severity of the condition in cats was lower compared with pigs. The abnormalities were caused by amniotic bands affecting already-formed organs or disrupting organ development, leading to a series of abnormal events. This is the first study to describe and classify BSAs and ABDC in cats. It provides new insights into these congenital conditions and highlights differences and similarities with other species. Surgical correction and supportive care can help affected cats, depending on the severity of their condition. Continued research and collaboration are essential for better prevention, diagnosis and treatment of BSAs and ABDC in cats, with broader implications for congenital anomalies in other species.