Clotting times and antithrombin III activity in cats with naturally developing diseases: 85 cases (1984-1994).

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of abnormalities of in vitro prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), or antithrombin III (ATIII) activity or all 3 variables in cats; and the association of abnormalities of these variables with naturally developing diseases or disorders.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

ANIMALS

85 cats from which blood had been obtained for measurement of a coagulation profile (PT, APTT, and ATIII activity) and concentration of fibrin degradation products.

PROCEDURE

Medical records from the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine were reviewed to determine clinical diagnosis, results of CBC and coagulation profile, and clinical evidence of abnormal bleeding or thrombotic disease.

RESULTS

38 cats had one or more abnormality in the coagulation profile; most had multiple abnormalities. Twenty of these 38 cats had concurrent thrombocytopenia. Thrombocytopenia was identified in 9 of 47 cats in which results of the coagulation profile were normal. Most cats did not have clinical evidence of a coagulation disorder, and testing had been requested as part of a diagnostic work-up or before surgery. Diseases commonly associated with laboratory evidence of a coagulation disorder, either singly or in combination, included hepatic disease, neoplasia, and systemic infections.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

On the basis of laboratory evidence, hemostatic disorders develop more commonly in cats than clinical signs would suggest. Coagulation profiles may be warranted in high-risk cats to alert clinicians to potential problems.