Feline dysautonomia — The Key-Gaskell syndrome

Sir:- In 1981, Key and Gaskell in the United Kingdom recognised a new disease in cats which subsequently became known as the Key-Gaskell Syndrome.(1) The incidence of this condition increased in the United Kingdom during 1982, and other workers described the clinical signs in more detail and were able to relate certain features of the disease to changes in the autonomic ganglia(3)(4) Recently, the NZVA Small Animal Society was asked by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association for any evidence as to its presence in New Zealand. The purpose of this letter is to provide information on feline dysautonomia (Key-Gaskell Syndrome), which it is felt may assist veterinary practitioners to recognise the condition and determine if it occurs in this country.