Maine Coons and intestinal intussusception: breed predisposition and clinicopathological features.

Maine Coons show 37-fold higher intussusception prevalence with better prognosis than other breeds.

This cross-sectional study (2004-2023) examined breed predisposition to intestinal intussusception in Maine Coon cats. The cohort included 371 sick Maine Coons compared with age-, sex-, and weight-matched controls, plus unmatched non-Maine Coons with intussusception. Maine Coons demonstrated significantly higher gastrointestinal disease prevalence (25.2% vs. 11.1%) and markedly elevated intussusception risk (18 cases vs. 0 controls; prevalence ratio 37). Intussuscepted Maine Coons were younger and heavier than affected non-Maine Coons, with lower serum cholesterol levels and elevated simplified Feline Chronic Enteropathy Activity Index scores. Notably, Maine Coons presented with predominantly idiopathic intussusception (33% vs. 0%) and exhibited superior short-term survival (94% vs. 58% hospital mortality). These findings suggest Maine Coons have genetic or phenotypic predisposition to intestinal intussusception, typically presenting with milder disease and better prognosis than other breeds. The younger age of presentation and idiopathic nature in Maine Coons distinguishes this population from typical intussusception presentations in felines.

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