Abdominocentesis in Cats

Abdominocentesis is a procedure used to remove fluid that is present in the abdominal cavity. The buildup of abdominal fluid is also known as abdominal effusion. Abdominal effusion is a symptom of several conditions, and is typically considered serious. In some cases, abdominal effusion can be life-threatening, particularly if it is symptomatic of heart, kidney, or liver disease. Abdominocentesis is a simple procedure that presents few complications. However, additional treatments are usually required to treat the condition and prevent recurrence.

Abdominocentesis is simple and noninvasive. If cats are only receiving abdominocentesis and do not require additional treatment, they may be able to go home the same day.

1. The cat may or may not need to be anesthetized for this procedure, although part of the abdomen will need to be shaved and cleaned.
2. The vet will use a needle and syringe to remove the abdominal fluid. 
3. The size of the syringe may vary based on the amount of fluid present or suspected.
4. The procedure will be repeated as many times as necessary until most or all of the fluid has been removed.
5. The fluid will then be sent off to be examined.
6. Cats may be sent home the same day if their condition is stable and there are no serious underlying conditions.
7. Some cats, particularly those with organ failure, may be hospitalized or sent into surgery so that the underlying condition can be treated. These cats may require supportive care or additional treatments.

Abdominocentesis is considered effective in that it removes the accumulation of abdominal fluid. However, the underlying cause of abdominal effusion will need to be addressed in order to fully treat the condition. This can require more complex and invasive procedures, particularly surgery. The efficacy of these additional treatment methods may vary based on the cat’s health and the severity of the underlying condition.

Prognosis and recovery will vary based on the severity of the underlying condition. Some cats are able to return to normal almost immediately following abdominocentesis. Since abdominal effusion is most often present in serious conditions such as organ disease and cancer, cats that have undergone abdominocentesis should rest and not engage in outdoor activity. Pain medications, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, corticosteroids or other medications may be administered depending on the underlying condition. Vets may schedule follow-up appointments as needed following abdominocentesis to monitor healing of the underlying condition. Owners should follow their veterinarian’s instructions with regard to recovery.

The cost of abdominocentesis will vary based on standards of living and additional costs incurred, including medications, hospitalization, and supportive care. The cost of abdominocentesis ranges from $75 to $200.

It should be noted that abdominocentesis is only a temporary resolution for abdominal effusion. If only small amounts of abdominal effusion are present, conservative treatment methods, particularly the administration of diuretics, may be recommended first. Abdominocentesis is not recommended for cats that have or are suspected to have pyometra – infection of the uterus – because this can result in rupture of the uterus and  peritonitis.

Because this procedure is simple and does not require animals to undergo anesthetization, complications are considered very rare. However, complications associated with abdominocentesis include:

• Spread of infection
• Hemoperitoneum: Abdominal bleeding
• Pneumoperitoneum: Accumulation of air in the abdominal cavity

If these complications arise, additional treatment will be required to correct them. Surgery is indicated for both hemoperitoneum and pneumoperitoneum.

It is often difficult to prevent abdominal effusion because it is typically associated with serious conditions such as organ failure. Owners should ensure their cats are fed a complete diet which is high in protein and fiber.