Veterinarians from Chulalongkorn University have achieved Thailand's first successful pacemaker implantation in a cat, setting a milestone in animal healthcare. An eight-year-old cat named Pepsi, who suffered from daily collapses, has fully recovered after the procedure. The operation, led by Dr. Anusak Kijtawornrat, marks a breakthrough in the country's veterinary cardiology.

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Pepsi was initially brought to Chulalongkorn Small Animal Hospital due to symptoms of lethargy and collapse. Standard medications did not help, leading to further tests that identified a severe cardiac arrhythmia. This blockage in electrical signals severely impacted blood flow to the brain, causing frequent fainting spells.

The surgical procedure was complex due to the delicacy of a cat's heart and veins. Unlike in dogs, a novel surgical approach was required, involving access through the chest rather than the neck. A multidisciplinary team successfully attached the pacemaker, the same model used in humans, directly to the heart's surface.

The pacemaker, donated and sterilized for reuse, cost around 55,000 baht, significantly reducing expenses. Post-surgery, Pepsi no longer experiences health issues and will have regular check-ups. Cats with pacemakers can lead normal lives, although care is needed around MRI machines due to potential interference with the device.

This procedure underscores the preparedness of Thai veterinary medicine to handle advanced cases. While such surgeries have been practiced abroad, they remain rare in Thailand due to technical and financial constraints. Dr. Anusak emphasized the need for vigilance in pets showing signs of weakness and encouraged continued education in veterinary practices, reported The Nation.

Key Takeaways

• Thailand achieves its first feline pacemaker implantation with success.

• A new surgical method was developed for Pepsi due to anatomical challenges.

• The procedure highlights Thailand's advanced veterinary capabilities.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Nation · 18 Feb 2026

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Well that cat looks a heck of a lot like a dog.

1 hour ago, wensiensheng said:

Well that cat looks a heck of a lot like a dog.

That is what I thought too- maybe I need to get my eyes tested?

i would like to see advances in artificial kidney transplants for cats. CKD is common in Thailand

155 since 1998 but this is Amazing Thailand.

The real question is, how much did that pussy cost?

What a waste of resources.

6 hours ago, wensiensheng said:

Well that cat looks a heck of a lot like a dog.

Must of turned the cat into a trans dog also judging by the photo 🙈

I will be the first to admit that I am not a cat lover, nor have I ever been a cat owner, though I do love dogs, I have not owned one for decades because I just don't want the responsibility and love to travel.

I've had this discussion with cat owners before, asking how much are you willing to spend on your cat when it gets sick? I've known people that have spent as much as $10,000 or $15,000 having their cat operated on in America. It seems bizarre and inane to me and a waste of resources, but like I said I'm not a cat lover.