Generalised tetanus in a cat (Felis catus) and its nutritional management with a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube

An 8‐month‐old, female, entire Maine Coon cat initially presented with spastic monoparesis of the right hindlimb that progressed to generalised spastic paresis over the ensuing days. A clinical diagnosis of generalised tetanus prompted the initiation of intensive supportive care, including antibiotics, skeletal muscle relaxants, analgesics and diligent nursing care. The cat developed a hiatal hernia, megaoesophagus and aspiration pneumonia. To meet the cat's nutritional requirements and to mitigate potential complications associated with dysfunctional swallowing, a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube was placed. After 21 days of hospitalisation, the patient was discharged. It took approximately 17 months for complete recovery, according to the owners. This case demonstrates the use of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube to meet the nutritional needs and bypass the dysfunctional oesophagus of a cat with the uncommon diagnosis of generalised tetanus.