Myositis (Muscle Inflammation) in Cats

Feline Myositis

Myositis is a condition in which skeletal muscles are damaged by a noninfectious inflammatory process dominated by lymphocytic infiltration. Signs of myositis are generally sudden in onset.

General Causes of Myositis in Cats

What to Watch For

Diagnosis of Myositis in Cats

Treatment of Myositis in Cats

Most patients are treated on an outpatient basis. Supportive care may be required to prevent wounds and decubital ulcers (bed sores) in severely affected patients that cannot walk. In the cases where an underlying infectious disorder has been identified, specific therapy should be instituted. Additional treatment may include:

Home Care

Administer all medication and diet as directed by your veterinarian. If any change is noted in your pet’s condition, notify your veterinarian. In particular, if coughing or difficulty breathing is observed, contact your veterinarian at once, as this may signal aspiration pneumonia secondary to a malfunctioning esophagus.

Life long therapy may be necessary in these patients.