Suspected symmetrical peripheral gangrene in a cat

Abstract

Case summary An 8-year-old female spayed domestic shorthair cat was presented for evaluation of non-specific lethargy and pain. It was diagnosed with septic shock secondary to wounds on the dorsum and required treatment with multiple vasopressors for circulatory support. During the course of hospitalization, it was weaned from vasopressors but subsequently developed symmetric skin necrosis and sloughing of the paws on the right thoracic and right pelvic limbs leading to a presumptive diagnosis of suspected symmetrical peripheral gangrene (SPG). Relevance and novel information This report documents the first case of suspected SPG in a cat that received multiple vasopressors for treatment of septic shock. Early recognition, cessation of vasopressor therapy and surgical management are necessary for treatment of this condition.