Vasopressor use in 41 critically ill cats (2007-2016).

This study describes the use of vasopressors in critically ill cats. Records of 41 cats hospitalized in the ICU were evaluated. Signalment, blood pressure, underlying conditions, evidence of sepsis, type of treatment (surgical versus non-surgical), vasopressor type and duration, adverse events attributed to vasopressors, and survival were recorded. Twenty-one cats (51%) had an underlying disease considered amenable to surgical treatment while 20 (49%) cats did not. Evidence of sepsis was present in 24 (59%) cats. Thirty-four cats developed a Doppler blood pressure (DBP) > 80 mmHg during therapy, and 29 cats became normotensive (DBP > 90 mmHg). Seven cats did not increase their DBP to > 80 mmHg. All cats received dopamine and/or norepinephrine and 6 cats also received other vasopressors. Sixteen cats survived (39%). Surgical intervention was associated with a higher survival (P = 0.004). Critically ill hypotensive cats may benefit from administration of vasopressors.