Balanoposthitis in a cat: symptoms, treatment methods

Types of orchitis

Orchitis is an inflammation that spreads to the tissues of the testes. The lesion involves either one or two organs. In the second case, the process is more extensive and the course of the pathology is more severe. Often, the lesion first occurs on the appendages (epididymitis), and then moves to the testes. Experts distinguish three types of orchitis:

Macroscopic. It manifests itself as extensive damage to all testicular tissues. They become swollen and painful. Epididymitis and periorchitis are associated with inflammation of the testicles.
Microscopic. The factor that causes it is azospermia, that is, a lack of sperm in the seminal fluid. This is of paramount importance in the diagnosis of orchitis.
Lymphocytic. This is the most dangerous type of orchitis, as recovery is rare. When it occurs, a malfunction occurs in the body when the immune system perceives the testicles as a foreign object. Lymphocytes begin to actively “attack” them, leading to reproduction. It is believed that genetically predisposed animals are susceptible to lymphocytic orchitis. Factors that provoke its appearance are infections and injuries.

If timely treatment is not provided, any type of orchitis can lead to infertility and, in severe cases, death.

Why are my cat's testicles swollen?

Females are more susceptible to diseases of the reproductive system than males. This is due to the fact that symptoms of diseases in cats appear less frequently, sometimes they do not appear at all. If a cat's testicles are swollen, this is a sign of inflammatory processes. Understanding what is happening to a pet can be quite difficult.

Types of orchitis

Often, the lesion first occurs on the appendages (epididymitis), and then moves to the testes.

Experts distinguish three types of orchitis:

Macroscopic . It manifests itself as extensive damage to all testicular tissues. They become swollen and painful. Epididymitis and periorchitis are associated with inflammation of the testicles.
Microscopic . The factor that causes it is azospermia, that is, a lack of sperm in the seminal fluid. This is of paramount importance in the diagnosis of orchitis.
Lymphocytic . This is the most dangerous type of orchitis, as recovery is rare. When it occurs, a malfunction occurs in the body when the immune system perceives the testicles as a foreign object. Lymphocytes begin to actively “attack” them, leading to reproduction. It is believed that genetically predisposed animals are susceptible to lymphocytic orchitis. Factors that provoke its appearance are infections and injuries.

If timely treatment is not provided, any type of orchitis can lead to infertility and, in severe cases, death.

Causes

If a cat has swollen eggs, then veterinarians pay attention to the following causes of swelling:

traumatic injuries. The pet can get them during a fight. As a result, bruises, wounds, and abrasions are formed, through which microbes easily penetrate, provoking an inflammatory reaction;
damage to the skin of the scrotum due to burns of various etiologies (thermal, chemical), as well as frostbite.
infectious diseases of a bacterial or viral nature. Of particular danger is brucellosis, meningococcus or Proteus infection;
diseases of a transitional nature. Often the inflammatory process migrates from the organs of the urinary system. These diseases include urethritis, cystitis and others;
mycoses. Diseases caused by fungal growth are quite common.
Complication. If a cat's testicles are swollen after castration, this is due to dirt entering through the wound, the procedure being carried out under unsterile conditions, insufficient cleansing of the scrotal cavities, and tissue separation.

The reasons that cause swollen eggs in cats pose a danger to the health of the pet.

Symptoms

There are quite a few signs of orchitis, the main symptoms include:

swelling, pain, increased temperature of the testes and their appendages;
changes in the scrotum: redness, soreness;
constant licking of the cat's genitals;
inactivity;
lack of appetite, refusal to feed;
heat;
infertility in severe cases;
weakness, lethargy, apathy, refusal to play;
if the inflammation is caused by improper castration, then there is a strong increase in the scrotum and pus leaking from the wound.

These symptoms are indicative of determining the cause of inflammation accompanied by swelling of the testicles.

Diagnosis and treatment

To find out the cause of inflammation, the veterinarian will perform special procedures:

collecting anamnesis about the pet’s life, nutrition, and illnesses;
examination to determine the degree of swelling, the presence of compactions;
blood and urine tests;
ultrasound diagnostics of the scrotum and abdominal organs.

If necessary, a biopsy is performed - taking biological material to determine the causative agent of the inflammatory process.

After diagnosis, treatment is prescribed:

Washing wounds and scratches on the skin with antiseptics (Chlorhexidine, boric acid or potassium permanganate solution).
Antibacterial drugs for the bacterial nature of inflammation - Amoxicillin, Azithromycin, Ceftriaxone, Enrofloxacin.
Anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve inflammation - Meloxicam, Vetalgin, Quadrisol, novocaine blockades.
Applying cold for scrotal injuries, starting with heat on the 4th day.
In severe cases, castration is required, even if the cat is used for breeding.
For mycoses - topical antifungal drugs.
For exacerbations, therapeutic massage is prescribed.

If a cat has swollen testicles, it is recommended to immediately take him to the veterinarian for diagnosis. Timely treatment will not only save the pet’s reproductive abilities, but also life, since any inflammation leads to serious complications.

Source: https://veterinariya.com/u-kota-opuhli-yaichki.html

Causes

If a cat has swollen eggs, then veterinarians pay attention to the following causes of swelling:

traumatic injuries. The pet can get them during a fight. As a result, bruises, wounds, and abrasions are formed, through which microbes easily penetrate, provoking an inflammatory reaction;
damage to the skin of the scrotum due to burns of various etiologies (thermal, chemical), as well as frostbite.
infectious diseases of a bacterial or viral nature. Of particular danger is brucellosis, meningococcus or Proteus infection;
diseases of a transitional nature. Often the inflammatory process migrates from the organs of the urinary system. These diseases include urethritis, cystitis and others;
mycoses. Diseases caused by fungal growth are quite common.
Complication. If a cat's testicles are swollen after castration, this is due to dirt entering through the wound, the procedure being carried out under unsterile conditions, insufficient cleansing of the scrotal cavities, and tissue separation.

The reasons that cause swollen eggs in cats pose a danger to the health of the pet.

Tumors, hematomas, filling of the scrotum with blood after castration.

The previous chapter of the article is about possible complications during castration of cats - Pain after castration.
A fairly common complication after castration of a cat is the appearance of noticeable tumors, hematomas (bruises) and filling of the scrotum with blood.

Most often, such deviations occur in large cats that are castrated as adults. Their blood vessels in the scrotal sac are large and therefore more prone to increased bleeding when cut. In the postoperative period, the causes of bleeding and swelling of the scrotum may be increased physical activity (the cat runs too much, makes sudden movements, jumps) or licking postoperative wounds.

In rare cases, filling the scrotum with blood can be a sign of blood incoagulability; attention must be paid to this. Veterinarians often diagnose bleeding disorders during surgery. It is caused by such reasons as poisoning with rat poison (from rat bait), platelet deficiency, hemophilia, and so on. Because of this, bleeding does not stop in a timely manner, and the scrotum becomes filled with blood during or after castration.

If a cat begins to bleed into the scrotal sac, it is usually clearly visible. The cat's scrotum swells, increases in size, it can become very red and look like a solid bruise. Often, owners call veterinarians to clarify whether their cat has been neutered because the swollen, blood-filled scrotum looks the same as it did before the operation, when the testicles were in it. Cats with an inflamed scrotum often show signs of pain. They can breathe heavily, restlessly wander around the rooms (“can’t find a place for themselves”), cats have a tense gait in their hind legs, and a refusal to sit in a normal position. Often cats try to be secluded, hide in dark places, some may show aggressiveness when trying to touch them. Many cats begin to intensively lick the inflamed area, which only increases the inflammation, further injuring the scrotum.

As a rule, swelling and inflammation go away on their own, and the scrotum shrinks when the blood that gets into it is absorbed by the cat's body. Therefore, in most cases, no special treatment is required. To alleviate your cat's condition, it is enough to give him cat painkillers (prescribed by a veterinarian), limit his physical activity and prevent him from licking surgical sutures.

Continuation of the article about possible complications during castration of cats - Infection of sutures after castration.

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Symptoms

There are quite a few signs of orchitis, the main symptoms include:

swelling, pain, increased temperature of the testes and their appendages;
changes in the scrotum: redness, soreness;
constant licking of the cat's genitals;
inactivity;
lack of appetite, refusal to feed;
heat;
infertility in severe cases;
weakness, lethargy, apathy, refusal to play;
if the inflammation is caused by improper castration, then there is a strong increase in the scrotum and pus leaking from the wound.

These symptoms are indicative of determining the cause of inflammation accompanied by swelling of the testicles.

Diagnosis and treatment

To find out the cause of inflammation, the veterinarian will carry out special procedures: collecting an anamnesis about the pet’s life, nutrition, and illnesses; examination to determine the degree of swelling, the presence of compactions; blood and urine tests; ultrasound diagnostics of the scrotum and abdominal organs. If necessary, a biopsy is performed - taking biological material to determine the causative agent of the inflammatory process. After diagnosis, treatment is prescribed:

Washing wounds and scratches on the skin with antiseptics (Chlorhexidine, boric acid or potassium permanganate solution).
Antibacterial drugs for the bacterial nature of inflammation - Amoxicillin, Azithromycin, Ceftriaxone, Enrofloxacin.
Anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve inflammation - Meloxicam, Vetalgin, Quadrisol, novocaine blockades.
Applying cold for scrotal injuries, starting with heat on the 4th day.
In severe cases, castration is required, even if the cat is used for breeding.
For mycoses - topical antifungal drugs.
For exacerbations, therapeutic massage is prescribed.

Inflammation of the testicles in cats due to tumors

Although it is not common for a cat with swollen testicles to have cancer, tumors are a possible cause of testicular inflammation. In these cases, the cancer usually begins in only one testicle and then spreads to the other. Cancer causes the testicles to become enlarged, but instead of having a smooth, smooth surface, it will be irregular and contain nodules. Other forms of cancer do not change the size of the testicle, but harden.

Cancer prevention is another reason why neutering is recommended for cats. Not only does it completely prevent testicular cancer, but it also reduces the risk of other forms of cancer in cats. Ideally, spaying should be done around 5 to 6 months of age, just before they reach sexual maturity...

This article is purely informational. HowMeow.ru does not have the right to prescribe veterinary treatment or diagnose. We invite you to take your pet to the vet if you are suffering from any illness or pain.

Orchitis in animals

Orchitis is an inflammation of the gonads (testes) in animals, characterized by pathological processes in the male testicles, which causes disruption of the development of germ cells and infertility.

One or both testicles are affected, most often together with the spermatic cord (epididymitis), which leads to the development of orchiepididymitis.

Causes of the disease:

trauma (bruise, bite, wound)
damage to the skin of the scrotum (chemical/thermal/biological burns, frostbite, scratches and abrasions), through which infection penetrates
overheating, hypothermia
infectious diseases due to which pathogenic microflora penetrates from other areas into the genitourinary tract
helminthic and parasitic infestations
radiation

In some cases, orchitis in animals is secondary to damage to the vaginal membrane of the testis or scrotum.

The development of pathology is promoted by:

inflammatory processes in the kidneys, bladder, urethra
diseases of the prostate gland, prepuce, penis
purulent lesions of the skin • diseases of the digestive system (protozoa, bacilli, cocci, lamblia, helminths)
decreased immunity (stress, old age, acute and chronic diseases)
diabetes mellitus, vitamin deficiency
unsanitary conditions
violation of content rules
poor monotonous food

Negative factors, combined with a decrease in the body’s defenses, as well as pathologies in the male genital organ or vas deferens, lead to inflammation of the testicles.

Swelling of the mucous membrane and a change in the environment in the tubules are accompanied by dilution of the secretion of the gonads and impaired sperm formation, as a result of which the animal develops infertility.

Treatment of this pathology is long-term, the prognosis is questionable.

Clinical signs of orchitis in animals

The disease is accompanied by general depression of the animal and attacks of anxiety, as a result of which sleep and appetite are disturbed.

A sick male exhibits:

increase in general and local temperature
swelling of the scrotum
enlargement and tenderness of the testis (testicle is hard to the touch)
the animal moves with its limbs spread wide and its stomach drawn in
with a unilateral lesion, the hind paw is set aside on the side of the diseased organ

If left untreated, the testicles shrink, becoming small and hard. The animal completely loses its ability to reproduce.

Where cats can get injured

Domestic cats in the vast majority of cases encounter wounds that result from fights with relatives or dogs. Cats living in apartment buildings also get injured when falling from a height (after chasing a bird, cats often fall out of balconies).

During a fight with their relatives, cats receive various injuries in the form of scratches, bites, and tissue tears. Injuries to the cat's cornea as a result of a fight are often observed. It is problematic to correctly assess the degree of damage in a pet without special examinations and tests, so you must immediately take the cat to the veterinarian.

Injuries received by an animal when falling from a great height are especially dangerous. There is an opinion that cats have excellent balance and shock-absorbing systems, which gives them the opportunity to jump from great heights without getting injured. In fact, this is far from the truth.

When falling from a roof or balcony, there may indeed be no visible injuries on the body, and while in a state of shock, the animal can behave completely adequately without feeling pain. Indeed, there may be no broken paws, but bruises of internal organs, head and brain injuries, ruptures of the diaphragm and pinched nerves in the spine are very common.

A cat that falls from a height can receive an injury inside the joint (intra-articular fracture), characterized by the formation of a specific crack. In the future, even with proper treatment, the animal will most likely suffer from inflammatory processes in the joints (arthritis and arthrosis).

A fall from a tree can cause injury to a cat's eye (pricking the eye with a branch). In this case, the animal exhibits a characteristic clinical picture of damage to the organ of vision. Increased lacrimation is noted, and exudate may appear from the eye. In some cases, a foreign object is diagnosed that is stuck in the eye and injures it (a piece of glass, a piece of branch).

After a cat has fallen from a great height, a symptom such as dragging of the hind limbs may appear. The cause of this sign may be injuries to the paws themselves (fractures, bruises, cracks), as well as a fracture of the spine.

If you suspect a fracture of the spinal column, you must take your cat to the veterinarian. But even with timely treatment and an adequate approach, the prognosis is rarely favorable.

A diaphragm rupture is also an injury that an animal can receive when falling from a height or in a collision with a car. The diaphragm, torn by impact, does not hold the abdominal organs in their anatomical place, which leads to their displacement towards the sternum. Loops of intestines or the liver compress the pulmonary structures, not giving them room for normal opening. The cat rapidly loses its appetite, becomes lethargic and apathetic, the mucous membranes become cyanotic, and shortness of breath occurs.

Orchitis - inflammation of the testes in cats

In veterinary practice, specialists are much more likely to deal with diseases of the reproductive system of females than males, and there is a simple explanation for this. For example, it is quite difficult not to notice endometritis or pyometra, since the general condition of the animal in the case of these pathologies is very serious, and without veterinary care it may simply die. Many diseases of the male reproductive system occur without noticeable symptoms , and therefore the owners often do not notice them until the last moment. A classic example is orchitis in cats.

What it is?

This is called inflammation of the testes. For the reasons stated above, veterinarians often have to deal with an already chronic, advanced form of the disease. The pathology can be either unilateral or bilateral. It is not difficult to guess that in the latter case it is more severe. Very often, the pathological process first involves the appendages of the testes (epididymitis,). Only later does the inflammation spread directly to the testes.

Types of orchitis are macroscopic, microscopic and lymphatic. Technically, macroscopic orchitis appears as swollen, painful testicles (that is, all the organ tissue is involved). This is usually accompanied by epididymitis and or periorchitis (inflammation of the lining of the testicles).

Microscopic orchitis has been seen in cats with azoospermia. More precisely, the absence of a normal volume of sperm in semen (this is azoospermia) is a distinctive symptom of microscopic orchitis.

Dinitz et al. (2005), in a study of diseases of the reproductive system in cats, notes that in 18% of animals, inflammatory lesions of the testes are somehow associated with leishmaniasis. However, for our country this is not so relevant, since this protozoonotic disease occurs (most often) in tropical and subtropical zones.

Lymphocytic orchitis is a type of autoimmune pathology when the testes do not pass the “control” of the body’s immune system and are recognized as a “foreign object”, as a result of which the organ is attacked by lymphocytes. As a rule, this process leads to complete destruction of the testicle. Scientists believe that such a disease can develop only in initially predisposed animals, and the “trigger” for its appearance can be any injury to the testicle, an infectious disease of a bacterial or viral nature. The main clinical sign is infertility and lack of sperm in semen (when both testicles are affected).

It should be noted that for lymphocytic orchitis, castration is recommended , since the chances of recovery are close to zero. If you doubt the relevance of castration/sterilization of pets (not of breeding value), we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the opinion of a veterinarian:

Main causes of the disease

Let us list the basic causes of orchitis in cats:

Injury. Any wound or scratch in the genital area is potentially fraught with inflammation.

Bite and laceration wounds are especially dangerous , since in this case pathogenic microflora gains almost unhindered access to the organs.

It can occur during infections , and brucellosis, meningococcal infections and Proteus are especially dangerous in this regard.

often lead to the development of severe forms of orchitis .

Symptoms and therapy

Let's look at the main symptoms of orchitis in a cat. There are quite a lot of them; an attentive owner will probably be able to notice at least some of these clinical signs:

Soreness and swelling of the testicles . The most specific symptom of inflammation is that the testes are noticeably warm.
Soreness and swelling of the testicular appendages .
In many cases, the scrotum : its skin also turns red and becomes painful.
The cat constantly licks his scrotum.
The animal walks with extreme reluctance , fearing to once again disturb the inflamed testicles.
Refusal to eat , complete loss of appetite.
Intermittent fever
Infertility (this symptom is especially important and indicative for breeders).
The cat becomes lethargic, apathetic , and tries to hide in a remote and dark place.
Sometimes the pain is so severe that the animal bites its testicles , causing scratches and wounds to appear on them.

What is the treatment for orchitis in cats? Since in most cases the nature of orchitis is infectious, broad-spectrum antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents are prescribed. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to relieve inflammation . Novocaine blockades have a good anti-inflammatory effect. With the traumatic nature of orchitis, applying cold to the affected tissues is indicated. On the third or fourth day, you can start using heat, including paraffin applications. If the animal’s condition raises concerns for its life, they resort to therapeutic castration (even if the cat has breeding value).

What to do if your cat constantly licks his genitals

If you notice that a cat or kitten often licks its testes, you need to think about it and find out the possible reasons for this behavior.
Undoubtedly, males lick their genitals for hygiene, for example, after visiting the litter box or performing natural needs. But if cats lick eggs frequently and intensely, among the possible reasons that are worth paying attention to are:

chronic cystitis, urethritis;
inflammation in the genitourinary tract;
pathologies, kidney diseases;
violation of the feeding regime, combination of natural food with dry, canned food;
ICD, presence of kidney stones;
neoplasms in the organs of the excretory tract;
inflammation of the paraanal glands.

In males, excessive licking of the perineum can be caused by inflammation of the prepuce. Preputial lubrication is located in the folds of the skin. Covers the penis. In healthy males, a small amount of whitish-yellow smegma accumulates around the preputial opening, which is normal. With inflammation, bloody substances and pus can be seen in the secretion.

A cat constantly wants to lick eggs in case of acute cystitis, other pathologies in the organs of the urinary system, as well as after castration.

If a kitten or cat licks its eggs after castration, but the animal’s condition is stable, there are no uncharacteristic symptoms - this is normal. After surgery, some time is required for tissue restoration, so the cat will lick the postoperative suture. Animal saliva has antibacterial properties and contains the enzyme lysozyme, so regeneration processes occur faster.

If castration is carried out in adulthood, the period of adaptation and hormonal changes in the body occurs more slowly and will take longer than in a kitten.

In case of deterioration of the condition, excessive discharge, suppuration of the suture, wound, fever, swelling of the groin area, immediately contact your veterinarian!

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If your pet constantly and frequently licks the testes throughout the day, you need to find out the root causes of this behavior. In any case, we recommend that you contact a veterinary center or clinic, where a veterinarian will examine the cat and make a diagnosis.

If a cat licks the seam after castration, to avoid injury and inflammation, put a protective collar on your pet. In case of severe pain, painkillers and analgesics will be prescribed.

In case of inflammatory processes that occur in acute or chronic form in a kitten or cat, treatment is carried out with complex systemic broad-spectrum antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, which are intended for general and local treatment.

Additionally, your pet may be prescribed immunomodulatory drugs, vitamin complexes, hormone therapy, enzymes, and homeopathic remedies.

If the reason lies in improper feeding, the veterinarian will prescribe a therapeutic diet and food. If the kitten or cat is kept on ready-made food, purchase premium, “extra” class products from well-known brands.

Diseases of the reproductive system

All diseases of the reproductive system of cats can be divided into two groups: diseases that affect males and diseases that affect females. As with most species of mammals, representatives of the weaker half are most susceptible to this group of diseases. If in most cats there are only two diseases of the reproductive system, then in cats there are much more of them. This is explained, first of all, by the high load that pregnancy and childbirth place on the animal’s reproductive system.

Diseases of the reproductive system of cats

Depending on the individual characteristics of the body, cats can reach sexual maturity at 5-9 months. It is at this age that the production of sperm by the testes begins, and the diseases listed below can already develop.

Hypersexuality.

As a rule, this disease causes more inconvenience to the owners of the cat and the animal kept together with the “culprit” than to the patient himself. This is explained by a natural sexual desire that has gotten out of control and taken an asocial form. The animal does not experience pain, but its behavior becomes aggressive, it begins to mark its territory, it may perceive its owners inadequately, etc. Symptoms of the disease include: enlarged testicles, aggression directed at owners or other animals, loud meowing (especially at night), attempts to mark territory. The most effective method of treating hypersexuality is surgical castration of the animal, however, if the cat is planned to participate in breeding, this method is unacceptable. In this case, the veterinarian will help you select homeopathic treatments that reduce the animal’s sexual activity.

This is an inflammation of the testicles that may result from a bacterial infection or injury. Unlike the first disease, orchitis poses a serious threat not only to the health, but also to the life of the cat, since in advanced cases it leads to blood poisoning. Symptoms of orchitis are: painful and enlarged testicles; difficulty urinating; elevated temperature; weakness and limited mobility. The classic symptom of the disease is a slow, unsteady gait with the hind legs widely spaced. Treatment is prescribed by a veterinarian after visiting the clinic and usually consists of taking broad-spectrum antibiotics and homeopathic medications, as well as light massage of the inflammation area.

The most common injuries in cats

As a result of its natural mobility, cats receive various wounds, abrasions, bruises and scratches on the body. In addition, falls from a height often result in dislocations, cracks and fractures of the limbs.

In most clinical cases, the injuries are serious, threatening not only the normal functioning and mobility of the animal, but its future life. Domestic cats often suffer from wounds, sprains, dislocations, tendon ruptures and fractures received during fights with relatives or during car collisions.

The most common injuries in cats are:

Abrasions and scratches
. Cats receive such injuries from dogs or their fellow tribesmen. This also includes eye injuries in cats. During a fight, cats often strike with a paw with claws in the muzzle area and directly in the eye.

Bruises
. Damage characterized by several degrees (first, second, third and fourth). The mildest degree of bruises in a cat is characterized by slight damage to the upper layers of the cat and fatty tissue. In the second degree of bruises, delamination and rupture of muscle fibers occurs, the formation of hemorrhages and lymphatic extrovasation. Swelling and increased local temperature in the area of damage are possible. Against the background of pain, the cat’s respiratory process is disrupted and the pulse quickens. With bruises of the third and fourth degree, the damage is characterized by severe disorders of the nervous system, states of shock, necrosis of tissue structures, crushing of tissues and fragmentation of bones. Bruises often include tail injuries in cats. The danger of such damage lies in the fact that when a secondary infection (pathogenic bacterial or fungal microorganisms) is attached. Serious and dangerous purulent necrotic processes begin to develop, including sepsis.
Bone fractures and cracks.
Occurs mainly in cats living in urban environments. Fractures occur from falls from great heights, impacts from slipping from a roof, or muscle strain. There are a number of factors that contribute to fractures - rickets and osteodystrophy. When bone structures are fractured, muscle fibers, blood vessels and nerve endings are ruptured. Open fractures are also characterized by damage to skin structures and other tissues. A fracture in an animal is characterized by severe pain and impairment of the functional characteristics of the limbs. Severe swelling and swelling occurs. An accurate diagnosis is established exclusively with the help of radiographic examination.
Wounds
. Mechanical damage to tissue structures, characterized by a violation of the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes, is called a wound. This includes injuries to the ear, eyes, wounds on the sides or paws. Depending on what caused the damage to the integrity and location of the wound, there are cut wounds, bruised, crushed, bitten, stab and poisoned wounds. When toxic substances (poisons) penetrate into an open wound, mixed compounds develop.
Traumatic brain injury
. Brain damage in cats is caused by head contusions. With concussions, brain disorders occur in the brain stem and hypothalamic-pituitary system. Brain contusions are characterized by disturbances in the functioning of the cerebral hemispheres, the subcortical part and the cerebral cortex itself. Against the background of the pathological process, nerve impulses in vital centers of the brain are disrupted, and blood flow is disrupted. Against this background, necrotic processes and strokes are possible. After a concussion or bruise, an animal tries to get up, the pupils are dilated, the pulse accelerates, and wheezing occurs when breathing. There is hyperemia of the mucous membranes. Mild bruises of the brain are characterized by the development of paralysis, retinal detachment or even dislocation of the lens. Trigeminal nerve atrophy may develop.
Spinal injuries
. Spinal injuries in cats are characterized by weakened conduction along the nerve pathways from the brain to the spinal cord. Violation in the cervical region provokes paralysis of the hind and forelimbs and some internal organs. At the same time, the brain continues to maintain the functionality of the respiratory system. Mild contusions of the spinal cord are accompanied by minor paresis, and in severe cases, ruptures of the spinal roots and hemorrhages in the brain are possible.

Diseases of the reproductive system of cats

A cat's reproductive system includes the uterus, ovaries and mammary glands. Diseases of the reproductive organs in cats are more extensive than in cats.

This is an acute or chronic infectious inflammation of the uterus, which is most often a complication of pregnancy and childbirth. Predisposing factors: trauma to the uterus during childbirth, as well as retention of fetal tissue in it (afterbirth, dead kitten, etc.). Symptoms: fever, general depression, decreased appetite, lack of interest in kittens. In addition, your cat may experience a foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Diagnosis of the disease is carried out both on the basis of clinical signs and after an X-ray or ultrasound examination of the animal’s uterus. In extremely rare cases, it is possible to stop the infection with conservative treatment methods, but, as a rule, metritis is treated with surgery. The disease poses a serious threat to the life of the animal, therefore, when the first symptoms appear, it is necessary to immediately take the cat to the veterinarian.

This is an infectious disease that affects the uterus. Just a few years ago, it was generally accepted that pyometry mainly affects older, unsterilized cats that have never given birth. However, in recent years, cases of young animals of reproductive age suffering are increasingly being recorded. In addition, cases of infection have been recorded in sterilized cats when the uterine stump was affected. Symptoms of the disease are numerous, including fever, general depression, frequent urination, and vaginal discharge with an unpleasant color and odor. The diagnosis is made based on examination and the necessary instrumental and laboratory tests. Most often, a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the inflamed uterus) is recommended.

This is an inflammation of the cat's mammary glands, which is based on a bacterial infection. Most often, mastitis develops in the postpartum period due to stagnation of milk during lactation. Mastitis can also develop due to injuries and mechanical damage. The development of the disease is accompanied by severe pain in the mammary glands, their redness, swelling and local increase in temperature. The cat often licks her nipples. The diagnosis is made based on the clinical picture. Treatment is prescribed by a veterinarian, and if his recommendations are followed, the prognosis is favorable. However, it is worth remembering that at the first signs of mastitis, it is necessary to isolate the kittens from the mother, since with acute septic mastitis, bacteria enter the cat’s milk, it becomes toxic and can cause poisoning and even death of the offspring.

Cancer in cats and cats - types, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment

Cancer in cats and cats - types, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment The term “cancer” is a collective definition of a disease that is caused by a neoplasm - a tumor.

A tumor is a collection (accumulation) of abnormal cells in the body that divide and grow uncontrollably, resulting in an increase in the mass of an organ consisting of abnormally dividing cells. What exactly causes cancer in cats can only be guessed at.

It is generally accepted that genetic (inherited) predisposition to certain diseases comes first in cats. Acquired factors include risk factors - chemicals (carcinogens), exposure to sunlight and much more.

Some viral infections, such as oncornovirus and immunodeficiency virus, also cause cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma. Cats infected with these viruses develop cancer 5 to 50 times more often than those not infected. Fortunately, these viruses are now relatively rare in most places.

But still, in most cases, the genesis of cancer (the appearance of abnormal cells) remains an open question. Cancer occurs when the regulatory processes in a cell are abstracted and it begins to divide rapidly and uncontrollably.

The organ to which the original cell belonged is destroyed as cancer cells destroy its structure.

Surrounding tissues can be involved in this process, as a result of which the tumor inexorably grows in them.

The cancer cells eventually rupture the primary tumor and travel to a nearby lymph node, from where they are carried by the blood through the lymphatic vessels to new areas of the body. Where they stop, which is often far from the original tumor, they also begin to divide rapidly until there is enough normal tissue to support their growth. This form of cancer is called metastasis. Tumors that do not spread to other parts of the body and, as a rule, do not penetrate into surrounding tissues are classified as “benign” neoplasms. The term cancer in diagnosis is used when a “malignant” tumor is confirmed by research results. Due to the highly aggressive and invasive nature of cancer cells, malignant tumors (cancer) cause more widespread and serious illness and are more difficult to treat than benign tumors. And although cats suffer from neoplasia (tumor development) less often than other domestic animals, nevertheless, when a cat has a neoplasm, the risk that the tumor is malignant is 3-4 times higher than, for example, in dogs. And the likelihood of serious consequences of such neoplasms also exists. The most common sites of cancer in cats are skin, blood (leukemia and lymphoma), mouth, stomach and intestines, and mammary glands. The TNM classification, used to describe the anatomical distribution of the tumor process, is based on three components:

T – tumor (from Latin “tumor”) – the size and spread of the primary tumor. These are solid tumors - carcinomas and sarcomas.
N – nodus (from Latin “lymph node”) – the absence or presence of metastases in regional lymph nodes and the degree of their damage. These are leukemia and lymphomas. In the bone marrow, where most blood cells are formed, malignant lymphocytes are born, which are easily carried by the bloodstream through the lymphatic vessels to the nearest lymph nodes. Ultimately, the immune system is destroyed and abnormal cancerous lymphocytes are carried through the bloodstream throughout the body, settling even in tissues.
M – metastasis (from Latin “spread”) – the absence or presence of metastases in regional lymph nodes and the degree of their damage.

Due to the huge variety of cancers that cats (and any other animal) can have, it is impossible to list all the different types and their manifestations. However, some of the most common malignant tumors are:

Lymphoma
Squamous cell carcinoma.
Basal cell carcinoma.
Mast cell tumors.
Mammary cancer.
Fibrosarcoma
Carcinoma/adenocarcinoma (eg, affecting the lungs, intestines, etc.).
Osteosarcoma (bone cancer).

There are no clearly defined signs of cancer development (abnormal cells). Older cats get cancer more often than younger ones. In most cases, the tumor will grow over a long period of time and signs such as poor appetite, lack of energy and weight loss are common in older cats and the development of cancer. Only at a certain stage do obvious changes appear:

Seals.
Nodules under the skin.
Changes in the eyes
Vomit.
Diarrhea.
Bleeding of unknown origin.
Wounds that don't heal.

Additional complications appear as the disease progresses and tend to develop based on which organs or tissues are affected.

Early diagnosis is important for positive cancer treatment. Any changes in the behavior and health of the animal (especially in older cats) allows cancer to be diagnosed in the early stages of development.

Many diseases have a set of standard symptoms, like cancer:

Change in bowel or bladder habits (constipation, diarrhea, etc.).
Blood in urine or stool.
Abdominal pain.
Labored breathing.
Lameness.
Lethargy.
Loss of appetite.
Tumors, bumps, crunchy lesions on any part of the body.
Enlarged lymph nodes.
Vomiting (sometimes with blood).
Wounds or ulcers that don't seem to heal.
Weight loss.

That is why it is especially important to consult a veterinary oncologist and undergo an examination in order to select treatment options and manage the disease for some time.

If cancer is suspected, a comprehensive examination is carried out (biochemical analysis of blood, urine, x-ray, ultrasound). To determine the location and size of the tumor, X-rays and ultrasound are used, but the conclusion “cancer” is confirmed only by macroscopic examination of tissues. To do this, a biopsy is performed (surgical removal of a small piece from the affected tissue or a smear of cells).

X-ray diagnosis of cancer in cats

X-ray of a cat, 13 years old, prominent

multiple metastatic foci of cancer

mammary gland in the lungs

X-ray diagnostics is one of the main methods for diagnosing tumors. An X-ray examination of the chest and skeleton (primary tumor, metastases), as well as hollow organs, blood vessels (angiography) and lymphatic vessels (lymphography) is performed. An X-ray examination of the breast is called mammography.

Ultrasound method for studying cancer in cats

For the ultrasound method, tumors located no deeper than 10-12 cm are available. Under ultrasound control, tumor puncture and biopsy can be performed, which dramatically increases the accuracy of the research.

Biopsy as a method for studying cancer in cats

A biopsy is performed to determine the histological, in some cases enzymatic-chemical or immuno-histological nature of the tumor in the form of excision or taking material with a special needle.

Urgent (during surgery) histological examination of biopsy material is often used. Chemical testing of tumor tissue can be performed for steroid receptors (breast tumors).

The accuracy of a puncture biopsy increases if it is performed under the guidance of ultrasound or computed tomography.

Surgical biopsy as a method for studying cancer in cats

A surgical biopsy involves opening the abdomen and removing pieces of tissue for analysis.

Pros:

maximum access to the abdominal organs, taking a high-quality (reliable) sample of the affected tissue, complete information about the spread of the tumor and the presence of metastases.

Minuses:

invasive. Requires general anesthesia and hospitalization. In addition, chemotherapy should be delayed until the wound has healed.

Endoscopic biopsy as a method for studying cancer in cats

Research is carried out using an endoscope, the technical options of which allow for pinch biopsy, brush cytology, loop excision and aspiration biopsy. Endoscopes are inserted through natural openings (mouth, anus).

Aspiration biopsy using a thin needle under endoscopic ultrasound control allows you to take a biopsy from subepithelial lesions, as well as objects located outside the gastrointestinal tract (lymph nodes, pancreatic tumors).

Pros: the ability to carry out the procedure without hospitalization.

Disadvantages: does not always provide high-quality samples, so several are required.

While your cat's cancer diagnosis is bad news, it isn't necessarily a death sentence. A specific concept has been developed for each disease and the methods that are used in our time can not only alleviate, but also significantly prolong the life of the animal. Some of them are available in general medical practices, and some are only available in specialized cancer centers. There are three main forms of cancer therapy:

Surgery.
Radiation (radiation) therapy.
Chemotherapy.

Which treatment is used (or suggested) in each case will depend on factors such as:

Type of cancer.
Site of cancer (where in the body).
Presence of metastases (removed tumor, tumor spread).
What's right for your cat.
What is available to you.

Surgery for cats with cancer

Surgery for cats and cats with cancer is the most common form of cancer treatment and is curative in most cases.

However, complete removal of the tumor by surgery is not always possible due to spread to surrounding tissues and other organs (metastases). The method of “surgical edges” when removing a tumor is generally accepted in oncology surgery.

The reason is that there are abnormal cells in the healthy tissue around the tumor that can create a problem in the future if not removed as much as possible. Therefore, early diagnosis of the disease at an early stage significantly improves long-term prognosis.

In addition to “radical surgery” (an attempt to completely remove the tumor), chemotherapy and radiation therapy are used to improve quality and length of life.

Radiation therapy (radiotherapy) for cats and cats with cancer

Linear accelerator Radiation therapy is used to target cancer tumors, eliminate them, or prevent cancer relapses.

Radiation therapy is a method of treating tumor and a number of non-tumor diseases using ionizing radiation.

This radiation is created using special devices that use a radioactive source (similar to X-rays).

There are several options for radiation therapy (radiotherapy). First of all, they are divided by type of radiation:

X-ray therapy.
Gammatherapy

According to the location of the source relative to the body, there is remote irradiation (at a distance), contact (intracavitary), which can be delivered directly using thin needles (intracavity):

With remote irradiation, the source is located at a distance from the patient, the radiation beam is given the required shape and directed to the required part of the body (organ).
The contact method is used in three variants: [list style=”check”] application - placing the radiation source on the surface of the body in special applicators;
intracavitary - the radiation source is introduced into the body cavity (oral cavity, uterus, vagina, etc.);
interstitial - the introduction of radioactive substances (drugs) directly into the tumor tissue, or the introduction of special drugs into the body with their subsequent absorption by the tumor tissue

This therapy typically requires a short general anesthesia (so that the cat does not move during the procedure), and usually multiple treatments (each lasting only a few minutes) over several weeks.

The use of radiation therapy in combination with surgery and/or drugs (chemotherapy) enhances the effectiveness of cancer treatment.

Radiation therapy is often scary for pet owners, but using this method helps stop the growth and control the tumor. The treatment sessions are painless and in cases where cancer causes pain, it is the most effective way to relieve this pain.

In most cases, damage to surrounding tissue is minimal. Skin irritation at the radiation treatment site and hair loss are some of the most common side effects.

Chemotherapy for cats with cancer

Chemotherapy –

This is the treatment of any malignant disease with the help of poisons and toxins that have a detrimental effect on the cells of malignant tumors with a relatively less negative effect on the host’s body.

As a rule, the procedure involves drip administration of drugs or taking pills. And although chemotherapy causes a number of adverse reactions in people (hair loss, gastrointestinal reactions, etc.)

), cats tolerate the treatment relatively well, with 20% of cats experiencing no side effects, possibly because lower doses are used than in humans. Massive hair loss is isolated cases in sick cats, most often manifested by loss of whiskers.

Gastrointestinal disorders that occur after chemotherapy are treated with antiemetic drugs. Treatment of cancer (malignant tumors) is essentially a long-term remission, it is an opportunity to make it easier and prolong the life of an animal, but it is not a panacea.

If there is no longer any hope of recovery, you can save the animal from suffering by ordering the humane euthanasia of a cat from our 24-hour service. Don't let the animal suffer before the inevitable end. /koshki-i-koty/usyplenie-koshek/

Source: https://VetPomosch.ru/koshki-i-koty/rak-u-koshek-i-kotov-tipy-simptomy-diagnostika-lechenie/

Reproduction

In cats and kittens, puberty occurs at the age of 6-8 months. It is at this time that they are ready to give birth. However, the age at which male cats are able to produce offspring may vary depending on the conditions of detention, breed, and nutrition. It is worth noting that puberty occurs earlier than the animal’s body is fully formed, so the first heat does not at all indicate readiness to give birth. Therefore, the best time for a cat to give birth is no earlier than 8-9 months.

Cats are polycyclic, characterized by sexual seasons and reflex ovulation. The sexual cycle is the changes that a cat's body goes through from ovulation to ovulation. Females are ready to mate only during estrus, males - at almost any period. If a cat is mated to several males, then the litter may contain kittens from different genetic fathers. At the age of approximately 10 years, animals stop hunting sexually (the manifestation of sexual reflexes).

When fertilized, the cat becomes pregnant and lasts about 60 days. Then childbirth takes place, during which 3 to 6 kittens appear. They are born without teeth, blind and deaf. The weight of a newborn kitten is no more than 70 grams. Childbirth lasts up to 5 hours, at the very beginning the cat begins to behave restlessly and makes a nest. When a kitten is born, the cat begins to lick it, bites through the membrane, removes it, and bites off the umbilical cord.

Preventing cat injuries

It is not possible to avoid injuries in a domestic cat, but the owner can minimize the risks of various fractures, dislocations, wounds and concussions. To do this, it is necessary to prevent the cat from jumping from heights and not allowing free walking on the balcony. If the cat likes to stay on the balcony for a long time, you need to take care of the presence of a special mesh, as reinforced as possible.

You should not self-medicate if the owner knows that the cat fell from the roof, balcony or tree. It is important to seek professional help.

Sexual diseases in cats

Typically older cats are susceptible to this pathology. The disease occurs when microorganisms enter the prostate tissue, causing it to become inflamed. The source of infection can be a purulent/inflammatory process in any part of the body.

This disease has several forms:

purulent - the secretion contains an increased content of leukocytes and pathogenic microflora;

catarrhal - urination becomes more frequent, especially at night, the content of leukocytes is also increased, palpation reveals soreness of the gland;

parenchymal - also with pain on palpation, possible increase in body temperature;

fibrinous - the animal experiences pain in the perineum, pain when urinating, and increased body temperature;

Diagnosis of the disease must be carried out by a veterinarian, taking into account the results of urine tests. Antibiotics and analgesics may be prescribed for treatment. The cat also needs to be provided with warmth and normal feeding, and add more vitamins to the diet.

This disease manifests itself when the testes or surrounding tissues are injured/infected. As a result, the cat may lose the ability to fertilize. With orchitis, the animal's body temperature rises, the scrotum swells and becomes larger, and the testicles hurt. He moves slowly, spreading his paws wide. The cat may be prescribed antibiotics for treatment; rest, warmth, and massage are also recommended.

Penis bone fracture

Cats get this type of injury when mating or during fights. The cat experiences severe pain, and a rustling sound is heard upon palpation. A fracture is diagnosed by a veterinarian using an x-ray. A simple fracture can be cured (a fistula is inserted for this); in particularly severe cases, amputation of the organ may be recommended.

Tumor in a cat near the testicles

Tumors in cats: types

Tumors in cats are classified into benign and malignant in nature. As the name suggests, the former are much easier to deal with.

Signs of a benign tumor in cats:

slow growth process;
painlessness;
limited – the tumor is located in a capsule that prevents it from spreading into neighboring tissues;
When surgically removed, such a tumor does not metastasize and the animal recovers.

A malignant tumor in cats is much more aggressive in nature and manifests itself with the following signs:

fast growth
metastasis – transfer of diseased cells to other organs and tissues through the blood and lymph flow
bleeding
soreness and intoxication of the body
are difficult to treat, surgical intervention does not always lead to a complete cure.

The skin, mouth, stomach, intestines, reproductive organs and mammary glands, as well as leukocytes (white blood cells) are more susceptible to developing cancer in cats.

Tumors in cats: causes of cancerous tumors

No veterinarian can say exactly why a cat has a cancerous tumor. Some believe that living with pets near humans predisposes to an increase in the percentage of sick pets.

For example, feeding cats food high in preservatives, flavorings and other chemicals introduces substances into the body - carcinogens that disrupt the structure of the cell's DNA, leading to its mutation and uncontrolled division.

Cancer is a term that refers to a whole group of diseases that cause the formation of tumors in the body of an animal.

Tumors, or neoplasms, are collections of degenerated, abnormal cells with an altered genome that grow and divide to the detriment of healthy tissues and organs, disrupting their functions, capturing them more and more and spreading in the body through the bloodstream and lymphatic system. Normally, the immune system monitors and destroys mutant cells every day, preventing them from reproducing.

It is difficult to determine exactly what exactly started the oncological process, but veterinarians are inclined to believe that there are factors predisposing to a cancerous tumor:

chronic diseases of internal organs;
unfavorable environmental conditions;
feeding with low-quality feed;
genetic background;
hormonal imbalance;
lack or excess of nutrients in the diet;
low physical activity, inactivity;
radiation;
constant stress.

There are five stages in the development of the oncological process:

Stage zero indicates the presence of a limited tumor no further than the boundaries of the epithelium that gave rise to the neoplasm. Diagnosis and proper treatment at this stage can completely cure the tumor.

At the first stage, the cancer expands, but does not go beyond the affected organ. The prognosis for this stage is also favorable, the main thing is diagnosis and immediate removal of the tumor.

At the second stage, the tumor progresses and metastasizes to the nearest lymph nodes. The type and location of the tumor plays a role here.

At the third stage, the tumor grows, the lymph nodes are also affected by cancer, but there are no distant metastases. The location of the tumor, its type, and the general condition of the animal play a role, which will help prolong the life of the animal or vice versa.

The fourth stage of cancer is incurable, since not only the primary focus and lymph nodes are affected, but there are also metastases in distant organs. Even if the main tumor is removed, the cancer will continue to destroy the body in metastases.

Source: https://ginekologiya-urologiya.ru/potenciya/opuhol-u-kota-vozle-yaichek