Esophageal Damage From a Hairball

Durocher, L., S. E. Johnson, et al. (2009). "Esophageal diverticulum associated with a trichobezoar in a cat." J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 45(3): 142-146.

This report describes an unusual case of esophageal obstruction and subsequent esophageal diverticulum in a 9-year old, neutered male domestic longhair cat associated with a hairball (trichobezoar). The patient was originally diagnosed with esophageal obstruction secondary to a hairball, and the hairball was removed endoscopically. Nine months later, the cat presented for persistent regurgitation. Contrast radiography with fluoroscopy revealed an esophageal diverticulum at the thoracic inlet with decreased esophageal motility distal to the diverticulum. Esophagostomy revealed the presence of a hairball within the diverticulum that was removed. With medical therapy and a canned diet, the cat did well for 2 months until it died suddenly. [SL]
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Related articles:
Owen, M. C., P. J. Morris, et al. (2005). "Concurrent gastro-oesophageal intussusception, trichobezoar and hiatal hernia in a cat." N Z Vet J 53(5): 371-4.
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Barrs, V. R., J. A. Beatty, et al. (1999). "Intestinal obstruction by trichobezoars in five cats." J Feline Med Surg 1(4): 199-207.
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More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library
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