2016 ACVIM Forum Research Abstract Program

Our study confirmed previous anecdotal reports of FHS affecting young cats and the possibility of that FHS signs are secondary to inflammatory skin conditions. A definitive diagnosis was not reached in 10 cases. However, not all the cases had the same diagnostic work up and not all had a full behavioral and dermatological assessment. Based on the results of this retrospective study, specialists in neurology, behavior and dermatology have formulated a standardized questionnaire and proposed a rational diagnostic approach for investigation and treatment of this constellation of clinical signs in cats and as a platform for future prospective studies. Although pelvic limb paralysis can be partially circumvented by using carts to allow greater mobility, care of the urinary bladder is often more problematic. In addition to urinary incontinence and recurrent urinary tract infections, it is possible that many such affected animals can suffer from detrusor hyper-reflexia. This is a risk factor for chronic elevation of bladder pressure and secondary renal damage in both human and canine spinal cord injury patients.