DOI: 10.5176/2382-5685_VETSCI15.23
Authors: Lih-Chiann Wang
Abstract:
A cat showed symmetrical bilateral alopecia on lumbar area, where was self-mutilated and overgroomed. All physical examination results were normal including total thyroxine and UCCR ratio. Environmental enrichment was employed but the effectiveness was limited. Further radiograph showed an abnormal narrow space between lumbar vertebras L5 and L6. Oxazepam, sertraline and gabapentin were prescribed. The hair showed fully growth within three months. The overgrooming problem was solved and no relapse happened again. A 5 year-old castrated mixed male cat attended behavior clinic at National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital in November of 2014, showing symmetrical bilateral alopecia on lumbar area. The cat was found overgromming for more than one year since it was adopted by the owner. The grooming was extensive and self-mutilated but could be interrupted by owner. This was a single indoor cat staying alone at home for 8-10 hrs every day. No skin ectoparasites were noted. Hair examination result was normal, and the CBC, blood chemistry and urinalysis were all unremarkable. The total thyroxine was 1.6 ug/dl and the UCCR ratio was 1.34, indicating the normal thyroid and adrenal cortex function. Since the environment was simple and dull, unexpected extra stress was also ruled out. Environmental enrichment was suggested, including the supply of Feliway diffuser, Kong feeding toy, catnip, cat tree, etc. Oxazepam 0.2 mg/kg sid and sertraline 0.5 mg/kg sid were prescribed. The cat came back to the clinic one month later showing no improvement except getting better sleep. Radiograph was then taken. An abnormal narrow space between lumbar vertebras L5 and L6 was noted, indicating that the intervertebral disc problem might contribute to the self-mutilated overgrooming. Gabapentin 12.0 mg/kg bid was prescribed along with sertraline and the tapered oxazepam. The cat improved dramatically and the hair got fully growth within three months. The gabapentin and sertralin were gradually tapered in two months. The cat recovered well and no relapse was noted again.
Keywords: cat, overgrooming, self-mutilated
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