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Key-Gaskell Syndrome in Cats
What is Key-Gaskell Syndrome?
All breeds and ages are at risk, although more cases of younger cats with this syndrome have been reported. It is a relatively rare issue, having only been seen in the past 35 years. Both sympathetic (chain-like groups beside the spine) and parasympathetic (near or in organ walls) ganglia, or cell groupings, are affected by feline dysautonomia. The onset of this syndrome can be as fast as a few hours or as gradual as a few weeks. It seems there is a contagious or common element aspect to Key-Gaskell Syndrome. Symptoms are very aggressive and need veterinary treatment to maintain the cat's comfort level.
Feline dysautonomia, often called Key-Gaskell Syndrome, is an occurrence of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) malfunctioning in a degenerative manner. The ANS monitors autonomic processes in the body such as breathing, digestion, and heart rate. When this system starts to lose function, all of the automatic happenings in the body also lose function.
Key-Gaskell Syndrome Average Cost
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Average Cost
$1,200
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Symptoms of Key-Gaskell Syndrome in Cats
There is a very wide range in severity of symptoms depending on how the cat responds to the syndrome and how far it has progressed. Symptoms are varied and extensive:
- Depression
- Weakness
- Protruding third eyelid
- Upper respiratory problems
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Exaggerated swallowing
- Constipation
- Anorexia (lack of appetite)
- Weight loss
- Dry eyes/nose/mouth
- Dilated pupils and light sensitivity
- Incontinence
- Dilated anus
- Swollen esophagus
- Swollen abdomen
- Swollen bladder
- Droopy eyelids
- Slow heart rate <120 beats per minute
- Stranguria (extremely painful and slow urination)
- Coughing
Causes of Key-Gaskell Syndrome in Cats
Currently, the cause of this syndrome is unknown, although dysautonomia is seen in other mammals. It was first recorded occurring in a cat in 1981 in England. Since then, other reports worldwide have turned up, increasing as the years go by.
Diagnosis of Key-Gaskell Syndrome in Cats
Your veterinarian will request the cat's medical history prior to conducting an extensive physical examination. A biopsy may be needed to complete a histopathologic examination of an affected ganglia (cluster of cells). X-rays will be used to confirm dysfunction of the esophagus, and may also be used to check for aspiration pneumonia. Fluoroscopy (video-like X-ray) is sometimes used for this process.
A Schirmer Tear Test may be conducted, checking for eye secretions. Pilocarpine can be placed in the eye, which will have no effect on a healthy cat, but will constrict the pupil of a cat with Key-Gaskell Syndrome within 15 minutes. The vet will also test for feline leukemia virus, as it shares some of the same symptoms.
Treatment of Key-Gaskell Syndrome in Cats
Unfortunately, no cure for this syndrome has been found. All treatments are strictly symptomatic, with supportive care being the main focus.
Hydration
The cat should be kept hydrated at a constant rate, with the bladder being manually emptied 3 times daily.
Steam Inhalation
This can help keep the cat breathing properly. It is important to keep the cat upright to prevent pneumonia from developing.
Artificial Tears
These may be used to keep the eyes comfortable while bringing back moisture to the mucous membrane.
Medications
Drugs such as metoclopramide, cisapride, or bethanechol may be prescribed to treat nausea, constipation, and urinary issues.
Feeding Tube
In some cases, this may be the only way to provide nutrients to the cat.
General Nursing
Keeping the cat clean and warm can help promote healing throughout this strenuous process.
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Recovery of Key-Gaskell Syndrome in Cats
This syndrome carries a poor prognosis with high mortality rates. Often, affected cats are euthanized to end suffering. Aspiration pneumonia is a secondary condition that can set in and it has the potential to cause death. For cats that do recover, the healing process takes up to a year and usually leaves the cat with lasting neurological problems. A small number of cats have made a full recovery.
Treatment can improve the function of the digestive system and help reduce vomiting. If nutrients are kept flowing through the cat, the overall attitude of the cat may improve. Survivors often maintain higher heart rates throughout symptoms.
Key-Gaskell Syndrome Average Cost
From 490 quotes ranging from $500 - $3,000
Average Cost
$1,200
Top
Key-Gaskell Syndrome Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Cat
Kitty
2 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Jaundice
Weakness
Anorexia
Dilated Pupils
I need help asap!! My friends cat has been having issues. I think it's one of 2 things. Gaskell syndrome or chronic liver disease. Symptoms are Anorexia, loss of interest, weakness, jaundice, dilated pupils, orange urine, eyelid stuck on eye, loss of appetite.. etc. I really need some guidance and help, I'm an animal lover and idk what to do. I have no money to help this cat so I have been googling what to do. I'm giving her clean water like clockwork to gain her strength, and I'm encouraging her to eat, but she refuses. Please help I'm begging someone. Email katiecheyenne96@gmail.com or 3045465653. This cat is on the brink of death.. and I have to save her!!
May 26, 2018
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Liver disease in cats can be very difficult to treat, and requires intensive medical therapy. Kitty may not make it through this without veterinary help. There may be a low cost clinic in your area that can help, but this is not something that can be treated at home, unfortunately. I'm sorry that that is happening to her.
May 26, 2018
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Cat
Tigerlily
9 Months
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Fever
Vomiting
Not Eating
Low Heart Rate
Elevated Third Eyelid
Pupils Non Responsive
Lack Anal Tention
Urinary Dysfunction
Upper Respiratory Virus
Trashed Immune System
Pupillary Malfunction
Tigerlily first showed squinting at the sunlight . Then her third eyelids elevated. Then she lost bowel movement, pupil response, didn't eat, urinated without control, her blood work showed a trashed immune system. She received antibiotics, pain medicine, IV fluids, and stomach medicine so I could feed her with a syringe. After giving her a dose of liquid stomach meds to coat her stomach so I could feed her it caused her to cough and then she convulsed and her body gave out. Within this 7 days she passed away. It was the most terrible thing I've ever gone through. It hurts so much that I couldn't do anything. She dies April 15th, 2020.
Key-Gaskell Syndrome Average Cost
From 490 quotes ranging from $500 - $3,000
Average Cost
$1,200
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