CASE REPORT: CLINICAL MANAGEMENT OF ALLERGIC RHINITIS IN A GERIATRIC CAT WITH A HISTORY OF CHRONIC BRONCHITIS

Abstract

Rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa that can be caused by allergens, infectious agents, or environmental irritants. This case report aims to evaluate the clinical management of allergic rhinitis in a geriatric cat exacerbated by a history of chronic bronchitis. The case animal is a female cat aged approximately 10 years with symptoms of sneezing, nasal discharge, abnormal sounds during inspiration, and dyspnea. Physical examination revealed abdominal breathing, rhonchii sounds on lung auscultation, and crust formation around the nasal area. Hematology examination showed leukocytosis, lymphocytosis, and granulocytopenia, while nasal cytology revealed neutrophil and macrophage infiltration. A chest radiograph showed a bronchial pattern characterized by tram lines, indicating chronic bronchitis. Based on these results, the cat was diagnosed with allergic rhinitis with a history of chronic bronchitis with a dubious prognosis. Therapy provided included nebulized salbutamol sulfate, infrared therapy, amoxicillin-clavulanate antibiotic therapy, respiratory supplements, probiotics, and environmental management. Therapy involving a change from dry to wet feed is also recommended to minimize upper respiratory tract irritation. While clinical improvement is evident, long-term management is necessary to prevent relapse and maintain quality of life in geriatric patients.