ACUTE, FLACCID QUADRIPLEGIA IN 3 CATS WITH SUSPECTED CORAL SNAKE ENVENOMATION

Three cats were evaluated for acute, ascending, flaccid quadriplegia; depression; and reduced nociception. Complete or partial neuromuscular junction blockade was found on nerve stimulation studies during elect romyographic examinations. Two of the cases had wounds on the chin or paw compatible with coral snake bites, Although a coral snake was foun d in only one case, coral snake envenomation was suspected because pot ential for exposure, clinical signs, and electrodiagnostic findings we re similar to dogs reported with this condition and to cats with tiger snake envenomation. Only one case received coral snake antivenin. All cases recovered within seven-to-10 days.