Surgical treatment of feline meningioma: a single-institution survival analysis

Abstract

Case series summary The aim of this study was to evaluate median survival time (MST), disease-free interval (DFI) and postoperative complications of surgical resection of feline intracranial meningiomas, providing evidence for prognostic counselling for general practitioners. A retrospective review of medical records (2012–2025) identified 17 cats undergoing craniotomy or craniectomy for histologically confirmed meningiomas. Data included patient characteristics, clinical signs, imaging findings, surgical approach, complications, histopathology, recurrence and survival. MRI or CT was used for diagnosis and postoperative monitoring when available. Survival analysis employed Kaplan–Meier and competing risk models; DFI was based on clinical signs or follow-up imaging. A total of 17 cats (median age 11.6 years; 82.4% domestic shorthairs) underwent surgery. The rostrotentorial approach was most common (65%), with minor intraoperative complications in three cases. Postoperative mortality within 4 weeks was 17.6% (3/17). In total, 14 cats survived to discharge. Median follow-up was 622 days. Estimated MST was 1674 days (95% confidence interval [CI] 1395–NE [not estimable]), with 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-year survival rates of 82%, 82%, 82% and 72%, respectively. Median DFI was 377 days (855 days for cats surviving to discharge). Histopathology predominantly included meningothelial and transitional subtypes. Recurrence was detected on MRI in 3/6 cases undergoing follow-up imaging. Relevance and novel information Surgical resection of feline meningiomas is a feasible treatment option with excellent outcomes for cats surviving the immediate postoperative period. The study demonstrates a high MST and low recurrence rate among treated cats, with surgery being curative in many cases. These results enable the veterinary general practitioner to more accurately assess the risks and benefits of surgical treatment of feline intracranial meningioma and discuss treatment with owners.