ESOPHAGOSTOMY TUBE FEEDING IN DOGS AND CATS
What is an esophagostomy tube?
An esophagostomy tube is a small rubber tube that is surgically placed through the neck skin into the esophagus, the organ that delivers food from the mouth to the stomach. Food may be given into the stomach through the esophagostomy tube, avoiding the mouth and pharynx.
We have to fully understand the effects of prolonged anorexia (not eating) in cats and dogs in order to fully understand the importance of the esophagostomy tube in the recovery of animals.
If an animal doesn’t eat, it can be a sign of an underlying issue and should not be ignored, as animals, especially cats, can develop serious health problems if they go without food for an extended period. Here are some potential consequences of prolonged anorexia:
- Weight Loss: Cats and dogs can lose weight quickly when they don’t eat, and significant weight loss can lead to muscle waste and other health issues.
- Hepatic Lipidosis (Fatty Liver Disease): Cats especially are prone to a condition called hepatic lipidosis, which occurs when their liver accumulates excessive fat due to a lack of food intake. This is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt medical attention.
- Dehydration: In addition to not eating, animals may also reduce their water intake when they’re not eating, which can lead to dehydration.
- Organ Dysfunction: Prolonged starvation can lead to organ dysfunction, especially in the liver and kidneys.
When is an esophagostomy tube needed?
- Feeding Support: When a patient is unable to eat or swallow food properly because of illnesses such as dysphagia, esophageal strictures, or swallowing problems, esophagostomy tubes are frequently employed. Via the tube, liquid nutrients, drugs, or fluids can be given directly into the esophagus.
- Post-operative care: The first few days after major surgery are critical for the animals’ recovery, and in some cases, cats and dogs experience pain, stress, and refuse to eat on their own. The tube is then used to provide support.
- Prevention of hepatic lipidosis: Anorexic cats can develop hepatic lipidosis after just 48 hours, the following liver injuries may become irreversible and therefore administering food via the esophagostomy tube can prevent it.
- Palliative Care: Esophagostomy tubes can be used in palliative care to manage symptoms and ensure that patients receive nutrition and medications comfortably, especially in cases where the patient’s condition is terminal.
In conclusion, placing an esophagostomy tube in dogs and cats, is a valuable and sometimes life-saving procedure for providing essential nutrition, medications, and fluids to cats who are unable to consume food and water by mouth.
Written by: Dr. Marie Therese Alkassis, ABVC Veterinarian
