Respiratory Disorders - Donkey
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Introduction
The anatomy of the donkey’s respiratory system shows some subtle variation in comparison to the horse. For example, it has narrower nasal passages and trachea, a deep nasopharyngeal recess, and a more sharply angled and more pointed epiglottis. Clinically this means that more care is needed when passing a stomach tube or intubating a donkey to avoid bruising and haemorrhage.
The respiratory conditions that affect donkeys are similar to those seen in the horse, although the incidence and presentation varies. In geriatric animals there is a higher incidence of chronic, fibrosing lung disease, dental sinus empyema and neoplasia. In younger populations, infectious respiratory disease is seen more commonly .
Most donkeys are not used for athletic activities and hence disease may be more advanced when first presented. As in any condition that stresses the donkey, hyperlipaemia can complicate the recovery. Auscultation of donkeys with respiratory disease may be difficult in obese individuals, and use of a rebreathing bag is generally easier than examination after exercise. Ancillary diagnostic aids such as radiography, endoscopy and ultrasonography should be used where appropriate.
Infectious Respiratory Diseases
Conditions of the Upper Respiratory Tract
Conditions of the Lower Respiratory Tract
References
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