Botulism in Cats

Botulism is caused by ingestion of raw meat or carrion contaminated with the neurotoxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum.

• Initial symptoms may include diarrhea and vomiting related to the ingestion of spoiled meat
• As toxin is absorbed, symptoms progress to incoordination and paralysis
• Both right and left sides are affected, and symptoms start in the rear and work their way towards the head
• There is no antidote, so treatment consists of supportive care for 1-3 weeks while waiting for the paralysis to resolve
• Botulism in cats is so rare that prognosis is undetermined, but it is likely to be similar to dogs: severe cases carry poor prognosis while those that receive prompt treatment and have not ingested a high dosage of toxin are likely to make a full recovery

The amount of toxin ingested is directly correlated to the severity of symptoms. Botulinum toxins are the most toxic naturally-occurring substances known.

Botulism is an extremely rare paralytic disease in cats. To date, there is only one confirmed case of feline botulism recorded. Information on feline botulism is based on how the disease process works in other species that are more commonly affected.

Symptoms typically occur within 12-72 hours of ingestion of the toxin and the sooner symptoms occur, the worse the prognosis.

Even though botulism is extremely rare, any cat showing signs of sudden paralysis needs immediate veterinary care. Botulism is fatal if not treated.

Outdoor lifestyle cats and cats that have ingested raw meat are at the highest risk of contracting botulism.

Botulism is caused by ingestion of raw meat or carrion contaminated with the neurotoxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. Once ingested the toxin is absorbed in the small intestines and enters the bloodstream where it affects the nervous system and leads to paralysis.

Early stages of botulism may initially present with gastrointestinal symptoms from dietary indiscretion.

Paralysis typically starts in the hind limbs and progresses to the front legs. Perception of pain and awareness remain normal.

Diagnostic tools include

• Physical exam
• Blood work
• X-rays
• Electromyography: to test the responsiveness of muscles
• Isolation of the neurotoxin from vomit, feces, or blood is possible, but not readily available

There is no antidote or definitive treatment for botulism. Treatment consists of supportive care. Affected animals need to be kept in a soft, padded area and turned frequently to help prevent body sores, and kept clean and dry. Assistance with eating may be required. A feeding tube may need to be placed for severely affected pets. Fluids, either intravenous or subcutaneous, may need to be administered. Manual bladder expression may be required if paralysis is preventing normal urination. When eyelids are paralyzed, lubricating drops are applied multiple times daily. Mechanical ventilation may be needed in severe cases.

Prognosis is cats is unknown since it is such a rare disease. It is presumed that prognosis would be similar to that in dogs, where recovery rates are generally good, but affected animals need intense supportive care for 1-3 weeks. Death is possible with ingestion of large amounts of toxin or if supportive care is not possible.

Botulism can be prevented by not allowing cats access to carrion or raw meat that is contaminated with botulinum toxin. Heating meat to 176 ℉ (80 ℃) for 30 minutes or 212 ℉ (100 ℃) for 10 minutes destroys the toxin.

Botulism is not contagious.

Botulism in cats is extremely rare with only one known documented case.

Treatment consists of supportive care that may include:

• Keeping pet in a soft, padded area and turning frequently to help prevent sores
• Help with feeding and drinking
• Manual bladder expression
• Lubrication of eyes if affected
• Mechanical ventilation if severely affected