Estimation of percent body surface area in cats with use of computed tomography.

OBJECTIVE

To establish a baseline reference and create a user-friendly chart for normal body surface area (BSA) in the adult domestic cat similar to the "Rule of Nines" chart.

DESIGN

Prospective cadaveric study.

SETTING

University Teaching Hospital.

ANIMALS: Seven adult domestic short-haired feline cadavers of normal body condition (4-6/9) and body weight.

INTERVENTION: Individual whole-body computed tomography (CT) scan was performed on all cats. Images were analyzed with 3-dimensional technology to measure the BSA. A chart was created, illustrating the individual surface area of each body part.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN

RESULTS

Obtained measurements of the cats are different from surface areas of people and dogs. Percentage of total BSA for cats was as follows: head 13%, neck 5%, thorax 20%, abdomen 15%, pelvis and tail 9%, front legs 7% each, and pelvic legs 12% each.

CONCLUSION

The distribution of BSA between body parts is different in cats compared to dogs and people. A species-specific chart was created to assure a more accurate estimation of BSA in cats.