Intussusceptions in Cats: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

What Are Intussusceptions in Cats?

Intussusception in cats is a serious condition where a part of the intestine folds into an adjacent section, creating a blockage that can disrupt digestion and blood supply. This telescoping effect can lead to swelling, tissue death, and food obstruction, most frequently occurring in the small intestine but sometimes affecting the bowel. This condition is particularly urgent because delayed treatment can be fatal. Prompt veterinary intervention is therefore essential to give a cat the best chance of survival.

Recognising Symptoms Early

The first signs of intussusception in cats often include vomiting, which may have a foul smell sometimes resembling faeces. Following vomiting, cats may show small, irregular stools possibly tinged with blood. Other signs include lethargy, pain demonstrated by hunching or vocalising loudly, and overall listlessness. These symptoms indicate the intestine is compromised and need immediate veterinary assessment as the condition can progress rapidly to life-threatening stages.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact causes of intussusception in cats are varied. It is more commonly seen in kittens and young adults, especially in breeds such as Siamese kittens and Oriental cats, though any breed can be affected. Contributing factors include intestinal parasites, infections that alter gut movement, unsuitable diets that cause diarrhoea, and stress from environmental changes like relocating or travel. Some breeding lines show predisposition due to intestinal weaknesses. Effective worming and careful diet management are important preventative steps.

How Is Intussusception Diagnosed?

Veterinarians will usually detect intussusception physically by palpation and then confirm diagnosis via imaging techniques such as abdominal ultrasound or X-rays. These diagnostic methods identify the location and size of the telescoped bowel segment. Early diagnosis allows for quicker surgical intervention and better outcomes.

Treatment and Surgery

Once diagnosed, intussusception requires emergency surgery. The vet may either manually reduce the intussusception or, more commonly, remove the affected section of intestine if damaged. Surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and usually requires hospitalisation afterwards to monitor recovery, ensure normal eating, and check bowel function. With timely surgery, many cats recover fully and can lead healthy lives post-treatment.

Post-Operative Care and Prevention

After surgery, strict care is essential. Your vet will advise feeding a bland, special diet to ease digestion as the intestines heal, and may recommend containment using a kitten pen to prevent strain on surgical stitches due to rapid movement. Keeping your cat separate from other pets during recovery can prevent dietary confusion and encourage rest. Insuring your cat promptly when acquiring a new pet can help manage unexpected veterinary costs, especially as intestinal issues like intussusception can arise early in life.

In summary, intussusception in cats is an emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. Early recognition, rapid diagnosis, and prompt surgery increase the chance of a positive outcome, and responsible pet care including regular worming and stress minimisation help reduce the risk. If you notice vomiting, unusual stools, or signs of pain in your cat, contact your vet immediately.