Feline Empyema: Understanding Cat Chest Abscess

Thoracic infections often present with subtle pathways, as infections can occur in the chest cavity through various means.

Causes of Feline Pyothorax:

Transmission of infection via the bloodstream

Migration of foreign objects through the chest or lungs, such as plants or thorns

Penetrating wounds, particularly from bites

Extension from vertebral infections

Spreading pneumonia

Rupture of lung tumors or abscesses

Lung or chest wall trauma

Esophageal perforation

Complications from surgery

There is typically a significant gap between the event that causes infection and the development of clinical symptoms. In cats, pyothorax is often the result of fighting with other cats, leading to bite wounds, and thus, young male cats are generally at a higher risk for this condition.

Associated Symptoms:

Difficult breathing

Fever

Lethargy and depression

Decreased appetite

Cyanosis (blue gums)

In some cases, even with aggressive treatment, pyothorax can be fatal.

Diagnosis of Feline Pyothorax:

Diagnostic tests are necessary to determine why your pet is experiencing difficulty breathing and to identify any underlying causes. If your pet is diagnosed with pyothorax, it will require prompt veterinary care. The veterinary process is typically divided into three parts:

Remove as much fluid from the chest as possible to make your pet more comfortable

Conduct examinations to determine the cause of the pyothorax

Treat the infection to prevent recurrence

Your veterinarian may recommend the following diagnostic tests:

Blood tests. The blood of pyothorax animals often shows an elevated white cell count.

Chest Xrays. Chest Xrays or radiographs are used to confirm the presence of fluid in the chest and help determine how much fluid is present.

Thoracentesis. Fluid is removed through a thoracentesis to make breathing easier for your pet and to obtain a sample of the fluid for analysis.

Most animals can tolerate thoracentesis without sedation, but your veterinarian may need to administer some sedation or even general anesthesia to clear the fluid.

Fluid analysis. Pyothorax fluid typically has a cloudy appearance, may have an odor, and can range in color from amber to red or white, and may even contain blood.

Cytology analysis. Your veterinarian will examine the fluid under a microscope to determine the type of cells present and whether bacteria can be seen.

Chemical analysis and sensitivity testing. Your veterinarian may culture the fluid to determine which bacteria are present. They will usually test various antibiotics to see which is most effective against the invasive bacteria.

Treatment of Feline Pyothorax:

If your pet is very ill and experiencing difficulty breathing, your veterinarian will first clear some fluid to make it easier for your pet to breathe, and may administer intravenous fluids (IV). They will also begin antibiotic treatment if necessary.

Once your pet is diagnosed with pyothorax, your veterinarian may want to place a chest tube to facilitate fluid removal and treatment of the infection. The chest tube can be used to flush the chest. Sterile fluid is introduced into the chest through the tube, and then the fluid is drained out.

If the cause of the infection is identified, your pet may require surgery.

Longterm antibiotic treatment is a crucial part of treating pyothorax. Initially, antibiotics may be administered intravenously, but your pet will need to continue taking oral antibiotics for 48 weeks.

Home Care and Prevention:

Use all medications prescribed by your veterinarian until the full course is completed. Keep a close eye on your pet for signs of difficulty breathing. If it becomes drowsy or stops eating, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Do not let your pet fight with other animals. If you find a wound on its chest, have it checked by a veterinarian. Pay attention to any wounds, so you can inform your veterinarian if your pet has any issues in the future.

Do not feed your pet bones or other hard objects, as they can become lodged in the esophagus, leading to esophageal perforation.

Beyond that, there's little you can do to prevent your pet from developing pyothorax, but being vigilant about these signs can lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment.