Iatrogenic rectal perforation in two cats secondary to use of a faecal loop.

CASE HISTORY: Two male, neutered, Domestic Shorthair cats, aged 5 and 8 years, were presented to the University of Florida for evaluation and correction of rectal perforations that occurred during faecal sample collection with faecal loops at their primary care hospitals.

CLINICAL FINDINGS: One cat presented with a fever, neutropenia, and lymphocytosis, while the other had a fever, thrombocytopenia, hyperglycaemia, and was approximately 5% dehydrated. In both cases, radiography identified a heterogeneous soft tissue and gas opacity adjacent to the rectum, and CT scans identified a defect in the rectal wall with associated pocketing, subcutaneous faecal material, and subcutaneous emphysema. The rectal defects were repaired surgically in both cats using a lateral perineal approach. Both surgical sites were treated with open wound management and left to heal by second intention.

DIAGNOSIS: Iatrogenic rectal perforation.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: There are risks associated with the use of instruments, such as faecal loops or thermometers, in the rectum. Associated trauma can lead to potentially life-threatening complications. Early detection of rectal perforation is vital to reduce further complications and improve clinical outcomes.