Clinical findings:
Upon presentation at the clinéquine of the Vetagro Sup Lyon, the gelding
was bright and alert, weighed 518 kg and his body condition score was
estimated at 6/9. The mucous membranes were slightly icteric and the
capillary refill time was slightly elevated at 3 seconds. The
gastrointestinal borborygmi were decreased in the upper left part of the
abdomen. His rectal temperature was within normal limits (37,3°C). His
heart rate and respiratory rate were within normal limits (48 beats per
minute and 20 breaths per minute) and auscultation was normal. He showed
signs of dysuria and a urinary catheter was placed. A distal obstruction
with sediment was present and urine was taken by catheterization for
bacteriology and cytology. Urine cytology showed an increased white
blood cell count (20-30 per chamber) and the presence of multiple
bacteria and carbonates. Bacterial culture however remained sterile. On
rectal palpation, a distended bladder was present that could be voided
by manipulation. Abdominal ultrasound showed no abnormalities. A
complete blood count revealed a mild neutrophilic leukocytosis (WBC:
12,83 x 10^9/L; neutrophiles: 9,39 x 10^9/L). Biochemistry
revealed no abnormalities. The venous blood gas revealed a slight
hypokalemia (2,7 mmol/L).