An ethicist's commentary on the case of a client who refuses euthanasia for a sick cat.
An 8-year-old, neutered, male, domestic shorthaired cat is admitted to your clinic with a complaint of lethargy and anorexia. The cat was last examined 2 months previously with a urinary tract infection and severe cellulitis at the site of a ventral abdominal urethrostomy. The urethrostomy was performed several years ago at another clinic. Euthanasia was recommended during your first examination, but the owner insisted on treatment. The cat improved after receiving fluids and systemic and topical antibiotics, but its condition suddenly deteriorated 2 days ago. Physical examination reveals severe dehydration, bradycardia, hypothermia, and an infected and fly-blown urethrostomy opening. Euthanasia is again recommended. The owner refuses and leaves the clinic, apparently intending to seek a second opinion.
Rollin
B E
BE
D000818:Animals; D002371:Cat Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D002415:Cats; D002481:Cellulitis / Q000628:therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D004995:Ethics, Professional; D005065:Euthanasia / Q000662:veterinary*; D008297:Male; D014552:Urinary Tract Infections / Q000628:therapy / Q000662:veterinary*