Figure 26-5.

An 8-year-old domestic short-haired cat presented with a chronic history of peritonitis. (A) After celiotomy the abdominal wall is maintained in an elevated position by finger retraction to prevent spillage of peritoneal fluid prior to suction. (B) The fluid is suctioned out using a Poole suction tip. Fibrinous material was present in the fluid. (C) The mesentery and peritoneal surface has a granular appearance with fibrin deposits throughout the abdomen. (D) Multiple biopsies were taken, and following celiotomy closure a closed-suction drain (Jackson–Pratt) was placed. A Nocardia type organism was cultured, thought to be a secondary pathogen; the primary cause was not identified.

(Courtesy of the University of Cambridge.)