Nocardial peritonitis in a cat

To illustrate a successfully managed case of nocardial peritonitis in a cat.

Case report.

An 8 year old neutered male Burmese cat presented for nonspecific signs of depression, anorexia, pallor and mild dehydration. Pyrexia, loss of weight and abdominal distension developed despite treatment with amoxycillin-clavulanate and supportive therapy.

Various medical and surgical procedures were used.

Haematology revealed severe inflammatory left shift. Biochemistry showed mild prerenal azotemia. A "ground glass" appearance to the abdomen was seen on radiographs. Fluid collected by abdominocentesis contained "sulphur granules" and had characteristics of a septic exudate. Laparotomy allowed drainage of peritoneal fluid and extensive lavage of the peritoneal cavity. Culture of the fluid revealed Nocardia sp. Sensitivity testing resulted in a change of antimicrobial therapy to trimethoprim-sulphadiazine.

Response to surgical drainage and change in antibacterial therapy was excellent. No toxic side effects were encountered during the 3 months course of trimethoprim-sulphonamide. The cat made a complete recovery.