Surgical correction of congenital type III atresia ani with rectovaginal fistula in a cat

Abstract

A four-week-old female Scottish Fold cat weighting 0.6 kg was admitted for vaccination. During the physical examination, the liquid feces were observed from the vulva and the anus was imperforate. The location of a narrow fistula and distended colon were identified on the contrast radiography. Definitive diagnosis was made as type III atresia ani with rectovaginal fistula. Anal reconstruction and ligation of the fistula were successfully undertaken to treat atresia ani. After surgery, the cat was treated with lactulose and a special diet consisting of high fiber was fed to increase digestibility. The cat was able to control defecation after 2 weeks post-operation. There was no complication for 8 months after surgery.