Changes

Blocking of the urinary tract is a common cause of ''post renal failure'' in small animals. The '''blocked cat''' commonly presents in general practice, and considered an emergency often requiring sedation or general anaesthesia. However, these patients pose a number of problems due to the abnormalities in electrolytes and acid base balance. The most common abnormality detected is hyperkalemia. This is commonly detected on biochemistry, but if this is not available, it may be detected on an ECG trace if the hyperkalemia is severe enough. Care should be taken in choose the agents used in these patients as adverse effects on the cardiovascular system may exacerbate any haemodynamic problems present.  

Blocking of the urinary tract is a common cause of ''post renal failure'' in small animals. The '''blocked cat''' commonly presents in general practice, and considered an emergency often requiring sedation or general anaesthesia. However, these patients pose a number of problems due to the abnormalities in electrolytes and acid base balance. The most common abnormality detected is hyperkalemia. This is commonly detected on biochemistry, but if this is not available, it may be detected on an ECG trace if the hyperkalemia is severe enough. Care should be taken in choose the agents used in these patients as adverse effects on the cardiovascular system may exacerbate any haemodynamic problems present.  

==Pyometra==

==[[Pyometra]]==

Pyometras are the most common cause for emergency ovariohysterctomies in small animals. These patients can present in various conditions, with patients having minimal metabolic disturbances to those with severe imbalances. Due to this variety in presentation, preoperative treatment can also vary from patient to patient, as some only require fluids to correct a mild dehydration, while others need fluids with addtional electrolyte to correct any imbalances and disturbances. The severity of the patient should be assessed on physical examination, full haematology and biochemistry and further testing as required.  

Pyometras are the most common cause for emergency ovariohysterctomies in small animals. These patients can present in various conditions, with patients having minimal metabolic disturbances to those with severe imbalances. Due to this variety in presentation, preoperative treatment can also vary from patient to patient, as some only require fluids to correct a mild dehydration, while others need fluids with addtional electrolyte to correct any imbalances and disturbances. The severity of the patient should be assessed on physical examination, full haematology and biochemistry and further testing as required.  

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