Feline Abdominal Distension

Feline abdominal distension refers to an abnormal enlargement of the abdomen. There are many causes for this kind of abdominal distension, including hemorrhage, tumors or enlargement of an abdominal organ. However, obesity does not result in abdominal distension. If a cat suffers from this type of distension, it requires immediate medical intervention, as it is life-threatening if not treated.

  1. Fluid Accumulation

    • Abdominal distension in felines can occur due to accumulation of fluid. The fluids that can occupy the abdominal cavity include blood due to internal bleeding, urine caused by a rupture in the urinary tract, cellular fluids due to an infection, such as feline infectious peritonitis, and clear fluids that have leaked out from blood vessels.

    Tumors

    • Malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous) tumors in any of the abdominal organs, intestines or lymph nodes can result in feline abdominal distension.

    Enlarged Abdominal Organ

    • Organs such as the liver, spleen and kidneys can become enlarged due to a medical problem, resulting in abdominal distension. It can also occur due to bloating or pregnancy. In the former, air is present in the stomach, while in the latter, the uterus becomes distended due to the growing fetuses.

    Symptoms

    • Sudden enlargement of the abdomen along with vomiting, sudden weakness and retching is one of the first symptoms of abdominal distension. In addition, the feline may have reduced appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in urinary habits as well as bowel movements, and reduced levels of activity. If there is fluid accumulation, it can exert pressure on the diaphragm, making it difficult for the cat to breathe. Furthermore, due to pressure in the abdomen, the cat will lose its appetite.

    Diagnosis

    • The veterinarian runs a series of tests to diagnose the cause of the feline abdominal distension. These tests can include chest and stomach X-rays, ultrasound of the abdomen, removing the fluid from the abdomen with the help of a syringe and investigating it, removing some tissue from the enlarged organ and checking it under the microscope, and performing a complete analysis of the urine.

    Treatment

    • Treatment depends on the cause of the distension. It can involve draining the fluids from the abdomen using a needle if the fluid is exerting pressure on the diaphragm and making it difficult for the feline to breathe. The vet may prescribe a diuretic to get rid of some types of accumulated fluids or perform a surgery if there is a tear in any organ in the abdominal cavity.