Evaluation of complications and prognostic factors associated with administration of total parenteral nutrition in cats: 75 cases (1994-2001).
OBJECTIVE
To determine frequency and types of complications, prognostic factors, and primary diseases affecting clinical outcome associated with administration of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) in cats.


METHODS
Retrospective study.


METHODS
75 cats that received TPN for > or = 12 hours.


METHODS
Medical records were reviewed, and information was obtained on signalment, history, problems at initial evaluation, physical examination findings, weight and changes in weight while receiving TPN, duration in the hospital before initiation of TPN, the type of TPN catheter used, duration of TPN administration, and final diagnosis. Laboratory results obtained immediately prior to TPN and at 24 and 96 hours following initiation of TPN administration were compared.


RESULTS
Reports of weight loss at initial evaluation, hyperglycemia at 24 hours, or diagnosis of chronic renal failure were significantly associated with increased mortality rate. Greater serum albumin concentrations prior to and at 96 hours following TPN administration were significantly associated with decreased mortality rate. Mechanical and septic complications were infrequent and not associated with increased mortality rate. Most cats had multiple diseases. The overall mortality rate was 52%; among 75 cats, 36 recovered, 23 were euthanatized, and 16 died as a result of their primary illness or complications associated with their illness.


CONCLUSIONS
Results indicated high mortality rate in cats maintained onTPN that had multiple concurrent diseases associated with a poor prognosis. Indicators of poor prognosis included a history of weight loss, hyperglycemia at 24 hours following TPN administration, hypoalbuminemia, and chronic renal failure.
Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
Sally C
SC
Pyle
Stanley L
SL
Marks
Philip H
PH
Kass
D000818:Animals; D001774:Blood Chemical Analysis / Q000662:veterinary; D001835:Body Weight / Q000502:physiology; D002371:Cat Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000401:mortality / Q000628:therapy*; D002404:Catheterization / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary; D002415:Cats; D005260:Female; D008297:Male; D009751:Nutritional Requirements; D010289:Parenteral Nutrition, Total / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000401:mortality / Q000662:veterinary*; D011379:Prognosis; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome