Retrospective Analysis of Extremity Fractures in Cats: 288 Cases (2018-2023)

Abstract

This retrospective study analyzed the prevalence, etiology, and treatment methods of limb fractures in 288 cats that were admitted to the Siirt University Animal Health Application and Research Hospital between 2018 and 2023 with trauma-related fractures. The findings revealed that the most common fractures occurred in the femur (47.91%), tibia-fibula (22.56%), and humerus (11.45%). It was determined that 56.25% of the fractures were caused by unknown traumas, 23.95% by fall from heights, and 19.79% by traffic accidents. In terms of treatment approaches, surgical intervention was preferred in complex cases, while cage rest and medical treatment [(0.3 mg/kg for 3 days meloksikam (Meloxicam, Bavet, Tuzla, İstanbul, Türkiye)] were chosen for simpler fractures. Surgical treatment was applied in 54.3% of femur fractures and 67.6% of tibia- fibula fractures. These findings highlight that the fracture type and severity of trauma are key factors in determining the appropriate treatment strategy for feline limb fractures. The research findings will contribute to future studies on the most frequently broken bones in cats, the rates of surgical or conservative treatment of these fractures, and various factors that may affect treatment choices. Conducting more comprehensive studies on the subject will make significant contributions to the literature and to veterinary clinicians.