Comparison of L2 and L5 Measurements for Diagnosing Intestinal Obstruction in Cats

Gastrointestinal foreign bodies are a common cause of acute abdominal disease in cats and may result in partial or complete intestinal obstruction with potentially life-threatening consequences. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of radiographic intestinal measurements, vertebral ratio analysis, and complementary imaging techniques in cats with suspected gastrointestinal foreign bodies. A total of 80 cats of different breeds, ages, and both sexes were included and divided into four groups: 20 with gastrointestinal foreign bodies, 20 healthy controls, 20 with non–foreign body gastrointestinal diseases, and 20 with urinary system diseases. All cats underwent direct abdominal radiography, and measurements were obtained from the duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and colon. Intestinal-to-vertebral ratios were calculated using the lengths of the L2 and L5 vertebrae. In selected cases, contrast radiography and ultrasonography were performed, and hematological and blood gas analyses were evaluated in affected cats. Statistical analysis included ANOVA, nonparametric tests, logistic regression, and ROC curve analysis. Cats with foreign bodies showed significantly increased intestinal diameters (p< 0.05). Intestinal-to-vertebral ratios were the strongest predictors, with a jejunal cutoff value of 5.47 mm yielding 84.6% sensitivity and 85.7% specificity. In 35% of cases, small intestinal diameter remained below 12 mm, highlighting limitations of absolute measurements. Ultrasonography improved diagnostic confirmation in equivocal cases. In conclusion, combining radiographic measurements with vertebral ratio analysis improves diagnostic accuracy. Integration of clinical and imaging findings enhances decision-making, reduces unnecessary surgical interventions, and provides a practical diagnostic approach for routine veterinary practice.