Chloramphenicol toxicosis in cats.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pharmacology
• Toxicology
• Hematology

Background:

• Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used in veterinary medicine.
• Understanding its toxic effects in feline species is crucial for safe clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the toxic effects of chloramphenicol in cats at different dose levels.
• To assess the impact on bone marrow and peripheral blood parameters.

Main Methods:

• Cats were administered chloramphenicol orally at high (120 mg/kg/day) and low (60 mg/kg/day) doses.
• Clinical signs, bone marrow, and peripheral blood were monitored during and after treatment.

Main Results:

• Higher chloramphenicol doses induced more severe toxicosis, including CNS depression and weight loss.
• Reversible bone marrow suppression (hypoplasia, maturation arrest) and lymphocyte vacuolation were observed.
• Hematologic changes included decreased neutrophils, lymphocytes, reticulocytes, and platelets, appearing after 1-2 weeks of treatment.

Conclusions:

• Chloramphenicol exhibits dose-dependent toxicity in cats, affecting bone marrow and peripheral blood.
• Observed hematologic changes and clinical signs are reversible upon cessation of treatment.