Successful management of minoxidil 5% toxicosis in 2 cats from the same household

J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio). 2023 Jul-Aug;33(4):454-459. doi: 10.1111/vec.13296. Epub 2023 May 24.

Abstract

Objective: To describe the successful management of 2 cats following ingestion of minoxidil 5%.

Series summary: Two 2-year-old neutered male Savannah cats were presented following suspected minoxidil 5% ingestion. Both cats developed significant myocardial injury, and clinical signs were consistent with congestive heart failure, supported by cardiac troponin I concentrations, echocardiogram, and thoracic radiographs. They required vasopressor therapy and were decontaminated with intravenous lipid emulsion therapy. Following decontamination, both cats were successfully discontinued from vasopressor therapy, and their clinical signs resolved within 24 hours. The cats were successfully discharged without long-lasting cardiac compromise. Their echocardiograms and cardiac troponin concentration 7 weeks after discharge were within reference intervals.

New or unique information: This is the first detailed report of the successful management of cats following minoxidil 5% ingestion.

Keywords: congestive heart failure; feline; intralipid; toxicity.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cat Diseases* / chemically induced
  • Cat Diseases* / drug therapy
  • Cats
  • Fat Emulsions, Intravenous / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Minoxidil* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Minoxidil
  • Fat Emulsions, Intravenous