Disorder - Intussusception

Organ Systems Involved
Gastrointestinal

Presenting Signs

Intussusception occurs when a section of intestine telescopes into an adjacent section of intestine. It can occur at any point along the gastrointestinal tract; however it most commonly occurs where the small intestine joins to the large intestine. Clinical signs include weight loss and lack of appetite, dehydration, vomiting, diarrhoea and decreased drinking, and there is often a mass in the abdomen that can be felt. The intussusception will cause either a partial or complete blockage, which means that food cannot pass through the whole length of the intestines. In addition to obstruction, the area can also have decreased blood supply, which can cause that section of intestine to die off.

Cats at Risk

Young cats (usually less than one year of age)

Breeds Affected
Siamese


Treatment

Surgical: treatment involves opening up the abdomen, finding the intussusception and pulling the two sections of intestine apart. Often part of the section has to be removed as it has been damaged by reduced blood flow. This condition can recur and sometimes another procedure which connects all the loops of intestine together can be performed so that intussusception is less likely to happen again.

PubMed References
Intussusception

Contributor
Sarah Warren