In adult cats, conditions that affect nerve function may cause megaesophagus. Affected cats should be fed liquid or gruel-consistency diets. The cat is often placed in an elevated position so the food can move into the stomach by gravity. With these methods, many cats can survive and do well. Medicate as directed by your veterinarian if indicated.
Full Answer
How do you treat megaesophagus in cats?
Treatment for Megaesophagus in Cats. Many cats with megaesophagus are switched to a liquid diet because it is easier to swallow. The food is typically placed at an elevated position so that the cat is standing on their hind legs while eating. This allows gravity to work in pushing the food into the stomach.
Why do cats with megaesophagus eat on their hind legs?
Many cats with megaesophagus are switched to a liquid diet because it is easier to swallow. The food is typically placed at an elevated position so that the cat is standing on their hind legs while eating. This allows gravity to work in pushing the food into the stomach.
What is megaesophagus in Siamese cats?
Magaesophagus involves a lack of motility required for the movement of food and liquid down to the stomach and can be the result of a variety of underlying diseases or causes. Siamese and Siamese-related cats are found to be predisposed to the this condition. Megaesophagus can either be congenital in nature (born with) or acquired later in life.
Is megaesophagus more common in dogs or cats?
Megaesophagus is more common in dogs than cats. It has been shown to be hereditary in Wire Haired Fox Terriers and Miniature Schnauzers. Other breeds that may be predisposed to megaesophagus are: Siamese cats may also be predisposed to megaesophagus. There are two types of megaesophagus.
What can I feed my cat with esophagitis?
Your veterinarian may recommend feeding your pet a diet of soft food, low in fat and fiber, in small, frequent meals. If esophagitis is severe, a feeding tube may need to be surgically placed into the stomach, bypassing the esophagus to allow it to rest.
What helps megaesophagus?
Options to try include meatballs of canned or homemade dog food, a thin slurry of food and water, a thicker gruel, and thoroughly soaked kibble. When dogs are unable to keep down enough liquid to meet their needs, they can be supplemented with gelatin squares (often called “Knox blocks”) or subcutaneous fluids.
Can megaesophagus go away?
If the underlying cause can be treated & intervention is early enough, the esophagus may regain motility and megaesophagus may regress. In many cases, however, megaesophagus is a lifelong condition that must be managed.
Can kittens outgrow megaesophagus?
There is no cure for megaesophagus, but it can be treated to improve swallowing and digestion for your cat. The goal of treatment is to take care of the underlying cause of megaesophagus. Your cat will be hospitalized if they are suffering from aspiration pneumonia.
What are symptoms of megaesophagus?
The primary symptom of megaesophagus is regurgitation. Regurgitation is the effortless spitting up of food or water that occurs soon after eating or drinking....Common clinical symptoms of megaesophagus in dogs are:regurgitation.hypersalivation.dysphagia.weakness.weight loss.failure to gain weight.poor body condition.
How much is megaesophagus surgery?
For the initial visit and a VFSS, the cost is approximately $400 to $500. The pneumatic balloon dilation and Botox treatment is about $1,500 to $1,600. Surgery, if indicated, would cost an additional $3,000 to $4,000 (assuming no complications).
Can megaesophagus worsen?
Megaesophagus is a common disorder in dogs that describes slow motility with resultant dilation of the esophagus. As a result of hypomotility, food will “pool” in the esophagus and stretch it. The stretching leads to damage to the nerves. This worsens hypomotility – a vicious cycle.
What causes megaesophagus?
Congenital megaesophagus is usually the result of incomplete development of the nervous system or due to a physical obstruction of the esophagus caused by a remnant of a fetal vessel (persistent right aortic arch).
Does megaesophagus affect breathing?
Why is megaesophagus harmful? As the food, water, and saliva accumulate in the esophagus there is an increased chance that some can enter into the trachea and lungs causing a serious infection, known as aspiration pneumonia. Signs of aspiration can include a cough, labored breathing, nasal discharge and/or fever.
Is megaesophagus painful?
In some individuals, you can actually see a bulging of the esophagus at the base of the neck, and touching that area may be painful. These pets may act hungry but then pick at their food to avoid the coughing and gagging they associate with eating. signs of pneumonia from aspirating food and/or liquid, including: fever.
How do I fix my cats regurgitation?
They get regurgitated. Feeding your kitty smaller portions, or spreading the food out on a cookie sheet to allow some time between each piece ingested, will allow the stomach to expand slowly and with ease. Another great option is to incorporate exercise with eating by using a feeding toy!
How is megaesophagus diagnosed in cats?
Routine laboratory tests, including complete blood count (CBC), biochemistry profile, and urinalysis results, are usually normal in cats with megaesophagus. However, abnormalities related to underlying diseases or complications, like aspiration pneumonia, may be seen.
What toxins can cause megaesophagus in dogs?
Top Toxic Causes of Megaesophagus in DogsBotulism. Botulism (Clostridium botulinum) results from the ingestion of preformed clostridium botulinum type C neurotoxin contained in carrion or spoiled foodstuffs. ... Tetanus. ... Lead Toxicosis. ... Organophosphate Toxicosis. ... Thallium Toxicosis. ... Australian Tiger Snake Envenomation.
Can dogs with megaesophagus drink water?
Many Megaesophagus (ME) dogs (my Zoey included) cannot tolerate drinking from a bowl of water (or a lake, puddle, etc.) because the water collects in the pouches of their esophagus and quickly causes regurgitation.
What causes megaesophagus?
Congenital megaesophagus is usually the result of incomplete development of the nervous system or due to a physical obstruction of the esophagus caused by a remnant of a fetal vessel (persistent right aortic arch).
What causes human megaesophagus?
Background: Megaesophagus, is a condition in humans, where peristalsis fails to occur properly and the esophagus is enlarged. In human there is a pathology known as achalasia which may predispose a person to slowly develop megaesophagus. Achalasia is due to the loss of ganglion cells of the myenteric plexus.
How do you know if your cat has a megaesophagus?
Cats with congenital megaesophagus typically display symptoms once they wean. However, some nursing kittens may also regurgitate milk through their nose, commonly referred to as milk nose. Regurgitation of food. Coughing and/or gagging. Nasal discharge.
What is esophagus in cats?
The esophagus is a part of the autonomic nervous system and as such, may be affected in cats with this condition.
What causes a cat's esophagus to regurgitate?
As a consequence, when the cat eats, food builds up in the esophagus, eventually causing regurgitation (passed back out). Not only does the cat not receive adequate ...
What is the disorder of a Norwegian forest cat?
An inherited disorder affecting some Norwegian Forest cats characterised by an inability to metabolise glycogen, a stored form of sugar in the body. Glycogen builds up in the tissues including the muscles which can lead to muscle weakness.
What is the cause of muscle weakness in cats?
Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism): Addison’s disease is a deficiency of corticosteroids produced by the adrenal glands. This disease can cause muscle weakness in cats.
How to increase motility of esophagus?
Frequent meals: Feeding smaller but more frequent meals 3-4 times a day. Medications: Metoclopramide or Cisapride which can help to increase motility of the esophagus.
How long should a cat be in an elevated position?
The recommended angle is 45-90 degrees from the floor and the cat should remain in that position for 10-15 minutes after eating.
What are the causes of megaesophagus?
Megaesophagus in cats is either acquired or inborn (congenital). Interestingly, the causes of congenital megaesophagus are unknown. There is very little proof about how cats develop this medical condition. Substantially, because more studies are required.
What are the symptoms of megaesophagus?
Megaesophagus can happen to any cat and it can be difficult to recognize the symptoms in the initial stages. So, to recognize the symptoms here’s what you can do? First and foremost, watch your cat carefully while she is throwing up food. Because vomiting is different from regurgitation.
How to treat megaesophagus in cats?
To treat megaesophagus in cats the veterinarian will first run a few tests. In other words, the vet will carry out a physical examination and perform tests like ultrasound and X-rays. Both the tests will reveal whether or not your cat has an enlarged esophagus and other abnormalities associated with megaesophagus.
Bottom Line
The prognosis may vary but the effects of this condition will also differ on a large basis. So, you have to make sure that you take your cat to a good veterinarian. There is a wide range of vets out there and if you have your personal vet then don’t forget to take the previous medical records with you.
What breed of cat has megaesophagus?
Other breeds that may be predisposed to megaesophagus are: Siamese cats may also be predisposed to megaesophagus. There are two types of megaesophagus. Congenital megaesophagus (born with the condition) is developmental and causes regurgitation starting at weaning when puppies and kittens begin eating solid food.
How do you know if your pet has megaesophagus?
Additional symptoms of megaesophagus may include: bad breath. signs of pneumonia from aspirating food and/or liquid, including: fever. rapid breathing. abnormal lung sounds.
When does megaesophagus regurgitate?
Congenital megaesophagus (born with the condition) is developmental and causes regurgitation starting at weaning when puppies and kittens begin eating solid food. Acquired megaesophagus occurs later in life, in young adults and middle-aged animals.
What is the term for damage to the nerves and muscles of the esophagus?
Damage between the nerves and muscles of the esophagus (e.g., myasthenia gravis ) A blockage of the esophagus by a foreign body, tumor, or scar tissue. Hormonal disease (e.g., hypothyroidism or hypoadrenocorticism—also known as Addison's Disease)
What tests are done to check the inside of the esophagus?
Other tests that may be considered include fluoroscopy or endoscopy to visually examine the inside of the esophagus, electrical tests to evaluate the nerve-muscle connection, a nerve-muscle biopsy, or evaluation of the cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.
Is megaesophagus a single disease?
What does this mean? Megaesophagus is not a single disease. Instead it is considered a combination disorder in which the esophagus (the tube that carries food and liquid between the mouth and stomach) dilates (gets larger) and loses motility (its ability to move food into the stomach). When esophageal motility is decreased or absent, ...
Can you see esophagus dilation on X-rays?
Generally, dilation of the esophagus can be seen on radiographs (X-rays). The trachea (windpipe) is often displaced by the accumulated food, fluid, and gas in the esophagus. If plain radiographs are not diagnostic, a contrast medium such as barium may be used for better visualization of the esophagus.
What to feed a cat with compromised feed?
Common food items recommended by the veterinarian will include liquid gruel, small meatballs, blenderized slurries, and other palatable, high energy foods.
Why do cats die from megaesophageal disease?
Some animals may die due to complications, like aspiration pneumonia.
What is the purpose of a radiographic examination of the esophagus?
Radiographic studies will show the enlarged esophagus filled with fluid, air, or food , and will help identify abnormalities related to aspiration pneumonia. More advanced techniques, like esophagoscopy, will be sometimes be employed, too. Esophagoscopy allows for the examination of the interior of the esophagus using an esophagoscope, a thin, ...
What is the enlargement of the esophagus?
Megaesophagus is the enlargement of the esophagus, a muscular tube that runs from the throat to the stomach. The esophagus functions solely to deliver food from the mouth to the stomach. Magaesophagus involves a lack of motility required for the movement of food and liquid down to the stomach and can be the result of a variety of underlying diseases or causes.
Is a cat's esophagus normal?
Routine laboratory tests, including complete blood count (CBC), biochemistry profile, and urinalysis results, are usually normal in cats with megaesophagus. However, abnormalities related to underlying diseases or complications, like aspiration pneumonia, may be seen. Radiographic studies will show the enlarged esophagus filled with fluid, air, ...
Is megaesophageal a congenital disease?
Causes. Megaesophagus can either be congenital in nature (born with) or acquired later in life. The congenital form is typically idiopathic or due an unknown cause; although it is rarely due to myasthenia gravis. The acquired form is also commonly idiopathic, but may also be due to:
What to do if your dog has megaesophagus?
After your veterinarian diagnoses your pet with megaesophagus, he or she will try to pinpoint the cause so that it can be treated. Surgery might be recommended in certain cases. Medications might also be prescribed.
Why do cats need feeding tubes?
In the event that your cat isn’t able to eat, a feeding tube might be used. In order to avoid aspiration pneumonia (when food is accidentally inhaled into the lungs), your veterinarian will instruct you on the best way to position your pet’s body for feeding.
What is the term for the enlargement of the esophagus?
Megaesophagus, or enlargement of the esophagus, is a condition that inhibits the ability of the esophagus to move food down into the stomach. Check out the information below to learn about this disorder, including its causes, symptoms, and treatments.
Can a cat develop megaesophagus?
Kittens can be born with megaesophagus, or a cat may develop it later on. Experts aren’t entirely sure about what causes congenital megaesophagus. When acquired later on, megaesophagus may be the result of inflammation or a foreign body or tumor in the esophagus. Other causes might include parasitic infections, hormonal disease, neuromuscular diseases, or exposure to toxins like heavy metals.
How to feed a dog with a megaesophageal syringe?
Feed the dog in an elevated position. Dogs with mild megaesophagus may be able eat from a raised food bowl , ideally either seated or with their front feet on a block of some sort to increase the angle of their esophagus. In most cases, however, dogs with megaesophagus need to eat in a truly vertical position and remain upright for 20-30 minutes ...
What is the esophagus?
In health, the esophagus is a muscular tube that pushes what is swallowed into the stomach. A “megaesophagus” is like a deflated balloon. It passively collects food and water until it can take no more, at which point the dog regurgitates all that he has just swallowed.
Why is it important for dogs to regurgitate?
This is important for several reasons: Dogs obviously need to digest and absorb food and water to survive. Once food and water is in the stomach, it cannot be regurgitated. (Vomiting is still possible but not likely with megaesophagus.) Repeated episodes of regurgitation puts dogs at high risk for aspiration pneumonia.
Can a dog with megaesophageal disease die?
There’s no doubt that taking care of a dog with megaesophagus requires a truly dedicated owner, but if you fall into that category, the disease no longer has to be a death sentence. Dr. Jennifer Coates. Image: Jaromir Chalabala / Shutterstock.
Is megaesophagus a symptom of another disease?
Megaesophagus can be a symptom of another disease (anatomical abnormalities, neuromuscular disorders, etc.), and in these cases, addressing the primary problem may also result in less regurgitation. Unfortunately though, most cases of megaesophagus are idiopathic, meaning that no underlying cause can be found.
What Is Megaesophagus?
Regurgitation vs Vomiting
- Regurgitated food looks the same as before it was consumed, vomited food is more sausage-like in appearance. Regurgitation appears effortless, the cat opens his mouth and out it comes, compared to vomiting which is an active process, which will consist of gagging, retching, and the sides will heave.
Causes
- The condition may be congenital, meaningpresent at birth, or acquired. It may be permanent or may be transient (such as with tick paralysis). There is a higher incidence of congenital megaesophagus in Siameseand related breeds. Acquired megaesophagus may be primary or secondary and has several possible causes. Remember that the esophagus is a muscular tube, …
Symptoms
- Symptoms can vary depending on the area affected. Cats with congenital megaesophagus typically display symptoms once they wean. However, some nursing kittens may also regurgitate milk through their nose, commonly referred to as milk nose. 1. Regurgitation of food 2. Coughing and/or gagging 3. Nasal discharge 4. Stunted growth in kittens 5. Weight loss 6. Bad breath 7. S…
Diagnosis
- Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination and obtain a medical history from you, which will include: 1. Onset of symptoms 2. What the vomit looks like (digested or not) 3. How soon after eating does your cat vomit 4. Any underlying medical conditions? Diagnosis is twofold, diagnose megaesophagus and the underlying cause.
Treatment
- The goal of treatment is to address the underlying cause and provide supportive care. For cats with megaesophagus which can’t be reversed by treatment, the aim is to prevent aspiration pneumonia and ensure adequate nutrition. This may include: 1. Elevated feeding position: Feeding cats in an upright position to help gravity move down the esophagus....
Prognosis
- This depends on the underlying cause. The outcome is positive in cats with acquired megaesophagus. For cats with idiopathic or congenital megaesophagus, the prognosis is poor.