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Lymphocytic plasmacytic gastroenteritis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease. While the exact cause is not known, it is possible that the intestinal bacteria themselves may be involved in stimulating the immune response. Signs include diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, and blood in the stool/vomit. Treatment may include nutrition management, immunosuppressive medications, and dietary supplementation of cobalamin, prebiotics, and probiotics.
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Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are cells that are involved in the immune system. Feline lymphoma most commonly affects the intestines; therefore, clinical signs of lymphoma are often similar to other intestinal diseases. Diagnosing lymphoma requires finding cancerous cells on microscopic examination. This cancer cannot be prevented, but the likelihood of a cat developing lymphoma can be decreased by preventing feline leukemia virus infection.
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Mast cells are a type of white blood cell that plays a large role in allergic response through degranulation. Mast cell tumors (MCT) can occur in the skin, spleen, or gastrointestinal tract of cats. Their cause is unknown; however, many affected cats show a genetic mutation in the KIT protein involved in replication and cell division. Cutaneous MCTs most often appear as hard pale/white plaques or nodules, often around the head and they may be itchy. Splenic MCTs cause decreased appetite, weight loss, and vomiting. Intestinal MCTs may cause GI upset and bloody stools, and a mass may be palpable. Diagnosis is typically achieved via fine needle aspirate although histopathology can be used. Treatment usually requires surgical removal of the masses or the spleen. Sometimes, chemotherapy or radiation is needed.
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Mastitis is a term used to describe inflammation of a mammary gland (breast), most frequently seen in the postpartum period after a cat gives birth. In most cases, mastitis is caused by a bacterial infection. Trauma to the nipple or teat canal can allow bacteria to enter, traveling up into the mammary gland and creating a bacterial infection. Most cats with mastitis can be treated on an outpatient basis with oral antibiotics and pain medications, though severe cases may require hospitalization or surgery.
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The gastrointestinal tract terminates in the large intestine with a tubular organ called the colon. The colon serves as a site for the absorption of water and storage of fecal material; it ends at the rectum. The walls of the colon contain muscles that are stimulated to contract by nerves from the spinal cord. When the colon contracts, fecal material is pushed out of the body.
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Megaesophagus is a disorder in which the esophagus dilates and loses motility. When esophageal motility is decreased or absent, food and liquid accumulate in the esophagus and have difficulty getting into the stomach. Regurgitation is the most common sign of megaesophagus. Weight loss or failure to gain weight, as well as aspiration pneumonia, are also common signs. Treatment is focused on managing the symptoms.
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This handout discusses meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, in cats. The numerous potential causes, along with the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of the condition are outlined.
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Methylsulfonylmethane is given by mouth and is used over the counter and off label to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset, restlessness, or tiredness. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or that are pregnant or nursing. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Miconazole topical is an antifungal used in the treatment of skin infections caused by yeast in cats and dogs. It may be used “off-label” or “extra label” for other conditions and in other animals. It may be specially compounded and/or combined into a formulation with other medications. Miconazole topical comes in a variety of forms.
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Feline miliary dermatitis is a skin condition that typically results from an underlying allergic reaction, most commonly to fleabites. An affected cat will have a very itchy rash and may lick, bite, and scratch at the affected skin, quickly progressing to small lesions with scabs on them. The offending allergen must be removed for long-term resolution.