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Decreased urinary catecholamines in a cat with dysautonomia
J K Levy1, K M James, L D Cowgill
1Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis 95616.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|September 15, 1994
Summary
Feline dysautonomia, a nervous system disorder, was diagnosed in a young cat presenting with common symptoms like regurgitation and dry eyes. This rare U.S. case highlights the challenges in diagnosing and treating this condition in cats.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Autonomic Nervous System Disorders
- Feline Medicine
Background:
- Feline dysautonomia is a rare neurological disorder affecting the autonomic nervous system.
- It impacts both sympathetic and parasympathetic functions.
- Diagnosis can be challenging due to varied clinical signs.
Observation:
- A 2-year-old cat presented with regurgitation, constipation, mydriasis (dilated pupils), and dry eyes.
- The cat had no history of travel to regions where feline dysautonomia is more prevalent.
- This case occurred in the United States, where the disease is rarely reported.
Findings:
- Physiologic autonomic function tests confirmed parasympathetic and sympathetic failure.
- Decreased urinary catecholamine measurements supported the diagnosis.
- The cat did not improve despite intensive supportive care.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering feline dysautonomia in cats with compatible clinical signs, even without a travel history.
- Early diagnosis and intervention may be crucial, though treatment remains challenging.
- Further research is needed to understand the prevalence and etiology of feline dysautonomia in the United States.