GI Causes of Vomiting in Cats

These flashcards cover key concepts related to gastrointestinal causes of vomiting in cats as discussed in the lecture about Ziggy.

What is a common cause of vomiting in cats related to intoxication?

Irritation from ingestion of toxins, though toxin ingestion is not common in cats.

What breed and age is Ziggy, the cat discussed in the lecture?

Ziggy is a six-month-old intact male cat.

How many days had Ziggy been vomiting?

Ziggy had been vomiting for four days.

What are some symptoms that accompany vomiting in cats?

Lethargy, anorexia, dehydration, hypothermia, and abdominal pain.

What is the significance of the oral and rectal exam in vomiting cats?

To check for foreign bodies that might be tied under the tongue or coming out of the rectum.

What does hypovolemia indicate in terms of fluid compartments in the body?

It occurs in the vasculature.

What does dehydration indicate in the body?

It occurs in the interstitium.

What were Ziggy’s post-presentation vital signs?

A heart rate at the upper normal limit and a respiratory rate that was normal.

What is an example of a classic foreign body ingestion in cats?

Linear foreign body, such as dental floss or string.

What can cause vomiting in older cats?

More likely a mass lesion, such as lymphoma.

What infectious disease can cause vomiting in young, unvaccinated cats?

Panleukopenia.

What is a common complication associated with obstipation in older cats?

Profound obstipation can lead to vomiting.

What is a key distinguishing feature of intussusception?

It is more common in young dogs than in cats.

What must be assessed quickly for cats showing signs of gastrointestinal distress?

The presence of abdominal pain or distension.

How can linear foreign bodies affect the intestines?

They can slice or tear through the intestine, causing serious damage.

What indicates a need for surgery in vomiting cats?

An obstructive cause, such as a foreign body or intussusception.

What is the initial treatment for hypovolemia and dehydration in vomiting cats?

IV fluids to restore hydration and normal blood pressure.

What diagnostic tests are recommended for vomiting cats?

CBC, chemistry panel, PCV, total solids, electrolytes, and abdominal radiographs.

What can an AFAST exam help identify in a vomiting cat?

Free abdominal effusion.

What does thickening of the muscularis layer during ultrasound suggest?

It suggests inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or lymphoma.

What is a potential outcome of an obstruction in the intestine?

Sepsis or GI perforation.

What happens in the body due to inadequate blood pressure in vomiting cats?

It can lead to shock and affect their physiological status.

How did they manage Ziggy's gastric distention?

By placing a nasogastric tube to relieve the pressure.

What post-operative care did Ziggy receive?

IV fluids, analgesics, antiemetics, and monitoring.

What is the survival rate for cats with foreign body obstruction?

Eighty-three to ninety percent.

What factors can lower the survival rate after surgery for foreign body obstruction?

Presence of linear foreign bodies and sepsis.

What type of fluid therapy was Ziggy started on?

Lactated Ringer's solution (LRS).

What outcome can occur if a vomiting cat has an intussusception?

A good prognosis if taken to surgery.

What condition shows particularly low survival rates in cats?

Panleukopenia.

What should be monitored post-surgery to ensure a safe recovery?

Hydration status and electrolyte balance.

What is the best practice for managing cats diagnosed with IBD?

Diet changes, steroid therapy, and possibly surgery.

What is a respiratory sign to note in Ziggy during the examination?

A normal respiratory rate.

What is one challenge noted in diagnosing foreign bodies in cats?

Linear foreign bodies can be harder to diagnose.

How did Ziggy's pre-surgery condition affect adaptability during anesthesia?

Pre-surgical improvements via IV fluids can lead to a more stable anesthesia.

What post-surgical treatments did Ziggy receive before discharge?

Buprenorphine for pain management and ondansetron for nausea.