Radiographic Study of Feline Orthopedic Injuries Following High-Rise Syndrome in Enugu Urban Areas

High-rise syndrome in cats refers to the collection of thoracic, facial, and orthopedic injuries sustained following falls from significant heights, commonly reported in urban environments with multi-story residential buildings. This study investigates the radiographic characteristics and surgical management of orthopedic injuries in cats presenting with high-rise syndrome at veterinary facilities in Enugu City, South East Nigeria, between January 2022 and December 2023. Twenty-nine confirmed high-rise syndrome cases were included based on documented fall history and radiographic evaluation. Full-body radiographic surveys were performed in all cases. Thoracic radiographs were assessed for pneumothorax, pulmonary contusion, and rib fractures. Skeletal radiographs were classified by anatomical site and fracture type. Orthopedic injuries were present in 86% of cases, with mandibular symphyseal separation and hard palate cleft being the most common craniofacial injuries. Forelimb fractures involving the radius and ulna were the most frequently encountered appendicular skeletal injuries, occurring in 41% of cats. Pneumothorax was confirmed radiographically in 31% of thoracic evaluations. Survival to discharge following combined medical and surgical management was 79%. The high frequency of soft tissue and orthopedic co-injuries reinforces the need for systematic full-body radiographic protocols in feline trauma cases. Recommendations include public education on domestic cat safety in high-density urban areas and improved emergency surgical readiness at Enugu veterinary facilities. Keywords: high-rise syndrome, feline trauma, orthopedic injuries, Enugu, radiography.