Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
WHAT IS HELICOBACTER?
Helicobacter are spiral bacteria found in biopsies of some cats' stom-
achs. The significance of this organism in cats is unknown. One type
found in humans, called
Helicobacter pylori,
has been linked to the devel-
opment of stomach inflammation, peptic ulcers and even stomach can-
cer. Whether these specific bacteria can pass between cats and humans
is unknown, but it has not been isolated in feline feces.
Helicobacter felis
is more commonly found in cats.
Helicobacter probably causes gastritis and vomiting in cats and may
predispose them to food allergies and inflammatory bowel disease.
Metronidazole alone or in combination with other drugs is used when
clinical signs are present.
INTESTINAL CANCER
Cancer can only be definitively diagnosed by a biopsy. A type of intes-
tinal cancer called intestinal lymphosarcoma (LSA) is common in cats.
Intestinal lymphosarcoma can result from uncontrolled inflammatory
bowel disease. The clinical signs associated with this disease are similar
to IBD, but by the time it has progressed to cancer, the cat is usually in
much worse physical condition. Cats with intestinal LSA can respond
favorably to chemotherapy.
Intestinal adenocarcinoma is another type of cancer seen in cats. If
this type of cancer has not metastasized, the treatment is surgical
removal. The affected piece of intestine is surgically cut out, and the
intestine is reconnected—similar to removing a bad piece of garden
hose! Adenocarcinomas do recur, but surgery has the potential to
extend the cat's life by several good years.
WHEN KITTY IS CONSTIPATED
Cats normally have one bowel movement a day. When stools become
less frequent or straining is observed, it is important to determine:
•
Is the cat able to pass stool?
•
Is the cat eating?
•
Is the cat dehydrated?
•
Could the cat be straining to urinate instead?
•
Is the cat defecating somewhere else in the house?
