Osteochondrodisplasia
(for further reading: Scottish Fold Osteochondrodisplasia)
Female, 3 yo, 3.5 kg, british shorthair cat
adopted a few months back, indoor with another adult cat.
when brought to us it turns out the patient present the folded ears trait.
Patient presented altered gait characterized by short stride, false lumbar kyphosis, bilateral 2 grade forelimb lameness, more pronounced on the left forelimb (3 grade with head-bob)
During patient history collection, it turned out that the altered gait is intermittent and chronic from the moment of adoption, as well as urinating outside of the litter box. referring clinician was able to rule out UTI and performed a behavioral evaluation and environmental modification.
Physical examination and blood work (cbc, biochemistry, electrophoresis, infectious disease panel) were normal.
Orthopedic examination cat seems uncomfortable during manipulation and palpation of carpi, bilaterally.
Further examination was not performed to avoid stressing the patient.
Orthopedic radiographs and genetic testing was performed with sedated patient, which confirmed diagnosis of Osteochondrodiplasia.
radiological finding consisted in irregularity in shape of tarsal and metatarsal bones, narrow tarsal joint spaces, and mild new bone formation around tarsal joints.
Genetic testing revealed the presence of c.1024G>T mutation in the TRPV4 gene in heterozygous, responsible for Osteochondrodisplasia.
Treatment plan:
weight management
Joint supplements ( omega 3 & 6 / PEA / cbd olio)
Meloxicam in case of lameness or symptoms suggestive of acute pain
Despite radiological finding and positive genetic testing for SFOCD, the cat continue to run, jump and play. therefore it has been decided in agreement with the owner to not introduce more advanced protocols such as monoclonal antibody injections at this stage and maintain a more conservative approach.
Cat seems to respond very well to Meloxicam but after 3-4 days of drug suspension, clinical signs recur. An administration of bi-weekly dose of meloxicam was proposed.