Effectiveness of a Modified Administration Protocol for the Medical Treatment of Feline Pyometra

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Pyometra is a common reproductive disorder traditionally managed by ovariohysterectomy, although in selected cases (such as breeding subjects or patients with anesthesiologic risk) medical treatment is preferable. This paper aimed to describe the effectiveness of a modified aglepristone administration protocol. Five intact queens were referred for pyometra and were treated with 15 mg/kg of aglepristone on Day 0 (D0), D2, D5, and D8, along with antibiotic treatment (marbofloxacine, 3 mg/kg). Regular ultrasonographic exams confirmed the complete resolution of the infection. After treatment, 3 out of 4 mated cats had an uneventful pregnancy. The results obtained, although limited to a small group, are promising. Further studies are planned to verify its effectiveness in the long-term prevention of recurrence. ABSTRACT: Pyometra is a common uterine disease of dogs and cats, typical of the luteal phase. Traditionally, ovariohysterectomy was considered the elective treatment for pyometra, but in some cases, such as breeding subjects or patients with a high anesthesiologic risk, medical treatment is preferred. Aglepristone is a progesterone receptor blocker and its use proved to be effective for the medical treatment of pyometra in bitches and queens. The aim of this work is to report the effectiveness, in the feline species, of a modified aglepristone administration protocol. Five intact queens were referred to veterinary care centers for pyometra. Aglepristone (15 mg/kg) was administered at D0, D2, D5, and D8, as described by Contri and collaborators for dogs. An antibiotic treatment (marbofloxacin, 3 mg/kg) was associated, and uterine conditions were checked with regular ultrasonographic exams. The uterus returned to its normal condition 10 days after starting the treatment and no adverse effects were reported. After treatment, three queens had an uneventful pregnancy. Even if the treated group was restricted and homogeneous, the proposed modified protocol proved to be useful and promising for the medical treatment of pyometra in cats; further studies are planned to verify its effectiveness in the long-term prevention of recurrence.