Management of uremic encephalopathy in a cat affected with post renal azotemia – a case report

Uremic encephalopathy is a toxic metabolic disorder rarely associated with acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease. It is more readily recognized when the onset of uremia is rapid as in acute kidney injury but it can also be severe in chronic kidney disease. Post renal azotemia is a common urological condition that presupposes prompt treatment. A 4.5 year old male Domestic short hair cat weighing around 5.2 kg was presented to Small animal Critical care unit of Madras Veterinary College Teaching Hospital with the history of vomiting, not voiding urine, and seizures. General clinical examination revealed reduced appetite, dull attitude,pale mucous membrane and normal temperature. On palpation of abdomen turgidurinary bladder was noticed. The blood sample was collected and sent for hematology and biochemistry profile evaluation which revealed relative neutrophilia, azotemia and hyperphosphatemia. On radiography, no cystic and urethral calculi were visualized. Tom cat catheter was fixed using standard protocol and urine was relieved. Urine sample was collected and sent for urine analysis which revealed proteinuria. Owner was advised to drain the urine frequently. The animal was treated with fluid therapy and broad spectrum antibiotics. On review the animal condition was improved.