Page 899 - Problem-Based Feline Medicine

41 – THE CAT WITH NECK VENTROFLEXION 891

METABOLIC
● Chronic renal failure (hypokalemic myopathy)*** (p 893)
Most commonly seen in older cats. Polyuria, polydipsia, weight loss, generalized weakness, stiff
stilted gait, muscle pain and, in severe cases, respiratory paralysis.
● Hypokalemic myopathy*** (p 893)
Occurs in any age or breed of cat, but most commonly in older cats associated with chronic renal
failure or hyperthyroidism. Also occurs in Burmese cats from 2–6 months of age. Generalized
weakness, stiff stilted gait, muscle pain and, in severe cases, respiratory paralysis.
● Hyperthyroidism (hypokalemic myopathy and/or thiamine deficiency)** (p 893, 899)
Usually seen in older cats. Polyphagia, agitation, weight loss, generalized weakness, stiff stilted
gait, muscle pain and, rarely, respiratory paralysis.
● Iatrogenic** (p 893)
Administration of inappropriate IV fluids or excessive furosemide. Generalized weakness and,
rarely, respiratory paralysis.

● Hypernatremic myopathy (p 903)
Very rare cause of inappetence, muscle weakness, depression and myoglobinuria.
NEOPLASTIC

● Hyperaldosteronism (hypokalemic myopathy) (p 893)
Disease of older cats. Generalized weakness, stiff gait, muscle pain, polyuria, polydipsia and
weight loss, and/or signs of systemic hypertension.
NUTRITIONAL
● Thiamine deficiency* (p 899)
Often with a history of fish-only diet. Anorexia and depression, followed by ataxia and vestibular
signs. May progress to seizure-like episodes, stupor and death.
● Inappropriate diet (hypokalemic myopathy) (p 893)
Seen occasionally, due to inadequate potassium or over-acidification. Generalized weakness, stilted
gait and muscle pain. May progress to renal failure.

INFECTIOUS
● Toxoplasmosis polymyositis (p 897)
Generalized weakness, muscle pain and reluctance to move. Often part of systemic illness.
May have dysphagia, megaesophagus or pneumonia.
IMMUNE
● Acquired myasthenia gravis* (p 896)
Exercise-induced muscular weakness, progressive stiffness, muscle tremors, and occasionally,
regurgitation and/or respiratory distress.
● Immune-mediated polymyositis (p 897)
Generalized weakness and pain. Occasionally with dysphagia or megaesophagus.

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