Use of a temporary incontinent end-on colostomy in a cat for the management of rectocutaneous fistulas associated with atresia ani

A 21/2-month-old cat was evaluated for the presence of multiple draining tracts ventral to the tail of 8 days duration. Clinical and radiographic examination revealed that the cat had rectocutaneous fistulas and type II atresia ani. The cat underwent a temporary end-on colostomy for faecal diversion. Sixty, days after surgery and after the fistulas resolved the animal underwent a second surgery for colostomy closure and anal reconstruction. Two years after surgery the cat was reported to be in good health with no faecal incontinence. (C) 2009 ESFM and AAFP. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved