What is osteomyelitis in cats? - briefly
Osteomyelitis in cats is a serious bacterial or fungal infection of the bone, often resulting from trauma, surgery, or systemic infection, leading to inflammation, pain, and potential bone damage.
What is osteomyelitis in cats? - in detail
Osteomyelitis in cats is a serious and potentially debilitating condition characterized by inflammation and infection of the bone and bone marrow. This condition typically arises when bacteria, fungi, or other pathogens invade the bone tissue, often through open wounds, surgical sites, or the bloodstream. In cats, osteomyelitis can affect any bone in the body, but it is most commonly observed in the long bones, jaw, or vertebrae. The infection can be acute, developing rapidly with severe symptoms, or chronic, persisting over a longer period and causing gradual damage to the bone. Common causes include trauma, such as fractures or bites, dental disease, or systemic infections that spread to the bone. Symptoms of osteomyelitis in cats may include localized pain, swelling, lameness, reluctance to move, fever, lethargy, and, in severe cases, discharge of pus from the affected area. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, imaging techniques like X-rays or MRIs, and laboratory tests such as blood work or bone biopsies to identify the causative organism. Treatment often requires a multi-faceted approach, including long-term antibiotic or antifungal therapy tailored to the specific pathogen, surgical intervention to remove infected or dead tissue, and supportive care to manage pain and inflammation. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical to prevent complications such as bone deformation, abscess formation, or the spread of infection to other parts of the body. In cases of chronic osteomyelitis, the prognosis can be guarded, and ongoing management may be necessary to control the condition and maintain the cat’s quality of life.