Have you ever noticed a shift in your cat’s meow? Cats are masters of communication, and their meowing sounds are a key way they interact with us. While a variety of meows are normal, a sudden or gradual change in your cat’s meowing sound can sometimes be an indicator of an underlying health issue. This was the case for Abby, a beautiful six-year-old Maine Coon whose concerned owner brought her in for a veterinary check-up because her meow had changed.
Investigating the Unusual Cat Meowing Sound
Abby’s owner noticed that her meow sounded different, prompting a visit to the vet. Initial physical examination didn’t reveal any obvious problems. Common causes for a change in a cat’s meowing sound, such as tumors, obstructions, or vocal cord paralysis, were considered. To investigate further, radiographs of Abby’s larynx were taken, but these also appeared normal.
To get a clearer picture, a more direct examination of Abby’s airway was necessary. This required sedation and the placement of an endotracheal tube. Once Abby was comfortably sedated, the endotracheal tube was carefully inserted, providing a direct view of her vocal cords. This procedure ruled out any obstructions in her upper airway and allowed for a detailed examination of the vocal cords themselves.
Pinpointing the Cause of the Altered Meow
During the airway exam, a small growth was discovered on Abby’s right vocal cord. At this stage, it wasn’t clear whether this growth was a benign swelling or a more serious tumor. To determine the nature of the growth, a small sample of cells was gently scraped from the tissue and sent to a pathologist for analysis.
The pathology results revealed that the growth was indeed a plasma cell tumor. Plasma cell tumors in cats can manifest as solitary, localized tumors or as part of a systemic disease. To differentiate between these possibilities, further tests were required, including blood work, full-body radiographs, and a more comprehensive biopsy. Abby was sedated again to allow for a more involved biopsy, where a small piece of the tumor was carefully removed and sent for further pathological examination.
Fortunately, the additional tests indicated that Abby’s tumor was solitary and localized, rather than a systemic disease spread throughout her body. However, its location on the vocal cord presented a challenge. Complete surgical removal was not feasible because of the delicate nature of the vocal cord tissue and the way the tumor had integrated with it. Removing the entire vocal cord was not a viable option as vocal cords play a crucial role in protecting the airway.
Treatment and Prognosis for Changed Meowing Sound
In cases where tumors can be fully surgically removed, this is often the preferred treatment. However, for Abby, the best course of action was determined to be local radiation therapy combined with concurrent chemotherapy. Abby began working with a radiation oncologist and has shown encouraging signs of improvement.
The oncologist noted that these types of tumors are rare, particularly in cats, and there is limited information in veterinary literature regarding the long-term prognosis. Despite the uncertainty, there is hope that Abby can overcome this condition and live a long and healthy life. Ongoing monitoring and care are essential, and updates on Abby’s progress will be shared.
If you notice any persistent changes in your cat’s meowing sound, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian. While not all changes are indicative of serious problems, a shift in vocalization can sometimes be an early sign of an underlying health issue that requires veterinary attention. Paying close attention to your cat’s meows and seeking professional advice when something seems amiss is a vital part of responsible pet ownership.
