Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Primary bacterial septic peritonitis in cats symptoms and outcomes
By Ruthrauff, Cassandra M et al.·Published in Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association·2009·Veterinary Surgical Associates, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Primary bacterial septic peritonitis in cats: 13 cases.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A group of 12 cats with primary bacterial septic peritonitis (an infection in the abdominal cavity) showed symptoms like low heart rate and low body temperature. Unfortunately, about one-third of these cats did not survive, especially those presenting with both bradycardia (slow heart rate) and hypothermia (low body temperature). The study found that the signs and outcomes for these cats were similar to those with septic peritonitis caused by other factors. While the exact source of the infection wasn't determined, it is suggested that bacteria may have come from the mouth. Treatment details were not specified, but prompt veterinary care is crucial for better outcomes in such cases.
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to describe the signalment, clinical signs, laboratory results, culture results, and response to treatment for primary septic peritonitis in cats. This is a retrospective study of 12 client-owned animals. Medical records were reviewed for clinical findings, laboratory results, microbial culture results, radiographic findings, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome. The overall mortality rate for this group of cats was 31%, consistent with previous reports of septic peritonitis in cats. All cats that were both bradycardic and hypothermic on presentation did not survive. Other clinicopathological findings were consistent with previously reported cases of septic peritonitis in cats. Results suggest that clinicopathological findings and outcomes in cats with primary septic peritonitis are similar to those in cats with septic peritonitis from a determined cause. A specific mechanism of inoculation has yet to be determined, but an oral source of bacteria is suggested for cats with primary bacterial septic peritonitis.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19887384/