Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Cat born with a split breastbone causing vomiting and stopped eating
By Tonekabony, Seyyed Hossein Modarres et al.·Published in Research in veterinary science·2026·Department of Surgery and Radiology·View original on PubMed →
PetCaseFinder translated the abstract of this peer-reviewed paper into plain English so pet owners can read it. We do not publish original research — every detail traces back to the citation above. How we work →
Original publication title: Congenital sternal cleft in a DSH cat: A case report.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A 2-year-old neutered male domestic shorthair cat was brought to the vet because he was vomiting and not eating. Tests showed he had high white blood cell counts and kidney problems, and imaging revealed a rare "U"-shaped sternal cleft, which is a congenital defect where the sternum doesn't fully form. Despite receiving supportive treatment, the cat unfortunately passed away due to complications related to his condition. This case highlights the importance of thorough diagnostic imaging for identifying rare congenital issues in pets.
People also search for: cat vomiting and not eating · cat kidney problems · congenital sternal cleft in cats
Abstract
The sternum, essential for protecting intrathoracic structures and enabling thoracic stability and breathing motion, is a vital part of small animal thoracic anatomy. Evaluating the sternum is crucial in small animal practice, with typical anatomy including eight to nine sternebrae and species-specific variations. Congenital sternal anomalies, such as pectus excavatum, pectus carinatum, and sternal cleft, though rare, can have significant clinical implications. Sternal cleft, characterized by incomplete fusion of sternebrae, is particularly uncommon in veterinary literature, with limited documented cases. A 2-year-old neutered male domestic shorthair cat, presenting with vomiting and anorexia, underwent comprehensive diagnostic workup at the Small Animal Veterinary Hospital. Laboratory tests indicated leukocytosis and renal dysfunction. Imaging revealed enlarged kidneys, dilation of the urinary system, mild bronchointerstitial lung patterns, and a unique sternal structure. CT and 3D reconstruction confirmed a complete "U"-shaped sternal cleft involving all sternebrae except manubrium process and seventh sternebra. Supportive treatment was administered, but the cat succumbed to systemic complications. Congenital sternal abnormalities in small animals, including sternal cleft, are rare and often associated with other thoracic or abdominal defects. This case highlights the complexity of diagnosing and managing such anomalies, emphasizing the importance of imaging for accurate assessment. This report of a complete "U"-shaped sternal cleft in a cat without respiratory symptoms underscores the necessity of documenting congenital anomalies. Comprehensive diagnostic imaging and multidisciplinary management are crucial for improving outcomes in similar cases. Despite the rarity of sternal cleft, reporting these cases enhances understanding and informs clinical decision-making.
Find similar cases for your pet
PetCaseFinder finds other peer-reviewed reports of pets with the same symptoms, plus a plain-English summary of what was tried across them.
Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41297443/