Disorder - Brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome

Organ Systems Involved
Respiratory

Alternative Names
Upper respiratory obstruction syndrome (UROS), brachycephalic obstruction syndrome (BOS)

Presenting Signs

This syndrome occurs in brachycephalic cats, which means cats with shortened faces. In these cats the skull is of normal width but is reduced in length because the bones at the base of the skull have developed abnormally. The soft tissues of the head are not reduced in proportion with this shortening, so there is too much tissue within the skull to allow normal airflow. Affected cats may breathe loudly with a snoring sound, may be lethargic and may need to use greater effort to breathe. Anatomical abnormalities may include a long soft palate, narrow nostrils and changes to the structure of the voice box. Affected cats can become distressed because they are not getting enough oxygen, and in extreme cases, or if there are other factors such as heat or stress, cats may even die.

Cats at Risk

Brachycephalic cats

Treatment

Medical and surgical

PubMed References
Brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome

Contributor
Heather Shortridge