TRACHEOESOPHAGEAL FISTULA IN 2 CATS

A tracheoesophageal fistula was diagnosed in each of two cats, one at the age of one year and one at the age of five years. Clinical signs i ncluded coughing, dyspnea, and gas crepitation in the cervical region. One fistula was diagnosed antemortem with the aid of contrast radiogr aphy. In the second cat, a tracheoesophageal fistula was suspected on the basis of history, physical examination, and radiographic findings. In both cases, a communication between the trachea and esophagus was noted on postmortem examination. The fistula appeared to be congenital in origin in at least one case.