A retrospective study of blunt trauma in dogs and cats: 167 cases

Authors: Farrell S, Ward M, Hickey M
Publication: Australian Veterinary Practitioner, Volume 52, Issue 2, pp 68-77, Jun 2022
Publisher: Australian Veterinary Association

Animal type: Cat, Dog
Subject Terms: Animal welfare, Ethics, Trauma/injuries
Article class: Clinical Report

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Abstract:

Objectives: To compare a population of dogs and cats presented for blunt trauma. To identify any differences between these species in relation to causes of trauma and mortality rates. To identify predictors for mortality on presentation.

Materials and Methods: Electronic medical records were retrospectively reviewed for cases presented for blunt trauma between 2017 and 2019. Signalment, physical examination findings, season of presentation, cause of injury, blood gas analysis results, diagnostic imaging, interventions and outcome were recorded.

Results: 167 patients were included: 94 dogs and 73 cats. The most common cause of trauma for dogs was motor vehicle accidents (49%) and for cats was a fall from a height (38%). The mortality rate was 14% for dogs and 19% for cats. Hypothermia was prognostic for increased risk of mortality in both dogs and cats. Cats were more likely to have a lower standard base excess, lower ionised calcium concentration and higher blood glucose concentration in comparison to dogs. Cats also scored higher on the respiratory and perfusion sub-categories of the animal trauma triage (ATT) score in comparison to dogs. Mortality rates for different injury types were higher than previously reported and differed between dogs and cats.

Clinical Significance: Dogs and cats had different causes for presentation, different mortality rates and differences in emergency database values and sub-categories of the ATT score. Hypothermia on admission was predictive for mortality in dogs and cats with blunt trauma. This information may assist veterinarians and clients with decision-making when presented with cases of blunt trauma.

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