Acute kidney injury caused by administration of zaltoprofen in a cat

A 5-year-old, 2.7 kg, spayed female Scottish Fold cat presented with hematemesis after administration of oral zaltoprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, by the owner. Diagnostic imaging and blood analyses indicated development of acute kidney injury (AKI) resulting from zaltoprofen ingestion. To correct dehydration and anemic conditions, the cat received intravenous fluid therapy with whole blood transfusion and peroral N-acetylcysteine. Clinical signs resolved, but persistent azotemia was unresolved indicating that AKI could progress to chronic kidney disease. This case suggests that although zaltoprofen may have low adverse effects on humans, administration of zaltoprofen in cats can have serious adverse effects.