Disorder - Atresia ani

Organ Systems Involved
Gastrointestinal

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Intestinal atresia; Rectovaginal fistula; Rectourethral fistula

Alternative Names
Imperforate anus; Proctatresia

Presenting Signs

Atresia ani is a condition where there is no anal opening at the end of the intestinal tract. Without an anal opening the animal cannot pass faeces. Therefore, animals with this condition typically present soon after birth when it is apparent that they don’t have an anus, or are not passing faeces. Other clinical signs include irritation around the anus and a bulge where the anus should be due to faeces accumulating in the rectum. Kittens with atresia ani may have a distended abdomen, a reduced appetite and pain in the abdomen. In severe (or undiagnosed) cases kittens may be dull, have a fever, may be generally weak, cold and unable to stand, and have rapid breathing and heart rates. In some cases faeces can accumulate so much that they create pressure that damages structures beside the rectum. In females a passage from the rectum to the vagina can occur (rectovaginal fistula), and faeces are passed by the vagina. In males urine may be stained with faeces.

Cats at Risk

Although a genetic basis for anal atresia has not been proven, literature suggests cats with other congenital abnormalities are more likely to also have anal atresia.

Treatment

Surgical. Surgical reconstruction of the anal opening.

PubMed References
Atresia ani

Contributor
Rebecca Carter