The osteomyelitis in the cat is usually classified based on the pathogen present (bacterial or mycotic …), on the localization or on its duration (acute or chronic).

It is a pathology of a certain importance and danger that should not be underestimated.

The bacterial infections that cause it range from: Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Pseudomonas, Escherichia coli, Proteus, Pasteurella and Brucella canis. Less frequently the anaerobic bacteria are found, especially in case of mixed infections with more bacteria present.

There are also cases of osteomyelitis called “fungal” that vary depending on the geographical location and include infections with: Coccidioides immitis, Blastomyces dermatitidis, Cryptococcus neoformans, Histoplasma capsulatum and Aspergillus.

Predisposing factors due to osteomyelitis:

– traumas

– ischemic

– Local infections

– Bone necrosis

– Hematogenous spread

How to understand if our cat has symptoms of this disease?

Clearly it is good to immediately contact the veterinarian of trust, but an initial warning could come from: lameness associated with pain, fever, abscess at the level of the possible wound, lack of appetite, sores full of pus and depression.

By performing an X-ray it is possible to identify:

– bone lysis

– bone seizures

– fistulas

– irregularity in the periosteum

The veterinarian will carry out a blood sample, a cytological and a bacteriological examination, the latter essential for using the most suitable antibiotic therapy.

Treatment for osteomyelitis consists of the administration of antibiotics, both intravenously and orally.

Along with antibiotics, taken for a long time, there is also surgical therapy.

The cat will need the constant care of the wound and the removal of dead, damaged or infected tissue, through the drainage of wounds, the spongy bone graft and in severe cases or in case of recurrence, unfortunately also of amputation (it depends where osteomyelitis is located).

Patient age is also a determining factor in the treatment of osteomyelitis; taking care of a young cat is clearly different from taking care of an elderly cat.

The prognosis of osteomyelitis in cats is variable depends, in fact, on the bacteria involved and on how much the infection goes on as well as on the general health status of our 4-legged friend.