Extrauterine fetal mummification associated with uterine rupture in a queen: A case report

Abstract

A ten-month-old female cat was presented to the emergency room of the clinic with a history of fever, anorexia, dehydration, and vaginal discharge. Abdominal palpation revealed a solid mass in the abdomen, which was later determined to be a fetus via radiographic examination. This finding was noted despite the owner's unawareness of a possible pregnancy. An emergency caesarean section was performed on the patient. Upon opening the abdomen, purulent discharges were discovered within the abdominal cavity. In spite of the fact that the uterine horns were perfectly intact, multiple areas of the uterine body displayed signs of perforation and necrosis. These necrosed regions were found to contain mummified fetal bones as well as the remnants of two mummified fetuses, protruding through the uterine wall, confirming an ectopic pregnancy. The abdominal cavity was flushed with normal saline, and after all debris was removed, an ovariohysterectomy was subsequently performed. It was then followed by the administration of postoperative medications, which included anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, local antiseptic dressings, and local antibiotics. It is quite uncommon for cats to experience ectopic pregnancy. This case study indicates that ectopic pregnancy can develop in cats with minimal symptoms and that diagnosis can be difficult to achieve. When it comes to queens that are experiencing nonspecific reproductive or systemic discomfort, this case study highlights the significance of diagnostic imaging and exploratory surgery.