Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction Caused by Dacryolith With Secondary Infectious Dacryocystitis in a Cat: A Case Report.

Dacryoliths are rare in cats; CT and surgical management are effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

This case report describes the first documented feline dacryolith, a mineralized concretion obstructing the nasolacrimal duct in a 6-month-old European Shorthair cat presenting with chronic mucopurulent ocular discharge. Diagnostic imaging, including computed tomography and CT-dacryocystorhinography, proved instrumental in identifying the calcified opacity and confirming partial duct patency. Surgical dacryocystotomy successfully removed a tan, firm mineralized concretion composed primarily of calcium phosphate. Bacterial culture of surrounding exudate yielded Pasteurella sp., indicating secondary infectious dacryocystitis. Post-operative recovery was uncomplicated with complete resolution of clinical signs and no recurrence at 8-month follow-up. This case emphasizes the diagnostic value of advanced imaging modalities in feline ophthalmology and demonstrates the therapeutic efficacy of surgical intervention for nasolacrimal duct obstruction. While the mineral composition has been established, the underlying pathogenesis of dacryolith formation in cats remains unclear and warrants further investigation.

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