A nine year-old intact tomcat was admitted into the Clinic for Small Animals because of adipsia and oliguria, which had been persisting for several weeks. A few weeks earlier the cat was treated for a complicated skin wound. Nothing but moderate dehydratation was discovered in clinical examination. For a more detailed examination of the animal’s status, blood and urine were collected for a basic check-up. All parameters were within reference values apart from mild hyponatremia. A non-specific course of the disease and blood check results aroused suspicion of feline hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s disease). ACTH stimulation test was conducted. It revealed a failure to respond to exogenous ACTH administration, thus confirminh the initial diagnosis. An X-ray of the thorax and ultrasonography of the abdomen displayed no pathological alterations. Antibiotics and a temporary subcutaneous fluid therapy with 0.9% saline were implemented so as to restore proper hydration and electrolyte balance. Then a chronic therapy with prednisone (Encorton 5 mg) at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg body weight and fludrocortisone (Cortineff 0.1 mg) 0.05 mg/animal was applied. Over 16 months have passed since the primary diagnosis was made. During that time the health status of the cat has remained satisfactory apart from a temporary deterioration due to the appearance of a strong stressing agent, which necessitated the application of a short course of fluid therapy, doubling of prednisone doses and supplementation of phosphor. Rapid response to the modified therapy has confirmed the accuracy of the initial diagnosis. Moreover, a typical course of feline hypoadrenocorticism, available diagnostic methods as well as factors affecting prognosis were discussed.
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