The Effects of Pregnancy Status on Lacrimal Caruncle Temperature, Intraocular Pressure and Rectal Temperature in Cats: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

ObjectiveThe objectives of this study were to compare the body temperatures between pregnant and nonpregnant cats from two sites, lacrimal caruncle temperature (LCT) and rectal temperature (RT), and to compare intraocular pressure (IOP) between pregnant and nonpregnant cats.Animal studiedThis study was performed on 13 pregnant and 16 anoestrous cats.ProceduresThe gestation period of the pregnant cats ranged from 20 to 45 days. A vaginal smear was also performed to determine the sexual cycles of nonpregnant cats. The IOP was measured using a rebound tonometer.ResultsThe pregnant cats (38 ± 0.7°C) exhibited a lower RT than the nonpregnant cats (38.5 ± 0.5°C) (p < 0.05). No significant differences existed between the pregnant and nonpregnant groups in the right (R)‐LCT or left (L)‐LCT (p > 0.05). The average LCT temperature measured 32.30 ± 2.23°C in cats. The right (R)‐IOP in pregnant cats (17.69 ± 5.6 mm Hg) was significantly lower than in nonpregnant cats (22.37 ± 5.27 mm Hg) (p < 0.029). Pregnant cats exhibited a significantly lower left (L)‐IOP value (17.69 ± 5.76 mm Hg) compared to nonpregnant cats (23.18 ± 5.55 mm Hg) (p < 0.015).ConclusionThis study presents a preliminary report that documents a noteworthy reduction in RT in pregnant cats (38 ± 0.7°C) as compared to cats in anoestrus. Pregnancy also has an effect on the IOP. It was hypothesised that the hormonal changes induced by pregnancy in cats would have a substantial impact on IOP and RT. Although body temperature can be measured using LCT, RT should still be utilised as the reference measurement site.