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==Introduction==
==Introduction==
'''Feline respiratory emergencies''' are '''common''' in general practise. It is essential that these cases are handled in an appropriate way as the patients are normally very '''fragile''' and may go into respiratory arrest if they become too stressed.
'''Feline respiratory emergencies''' are '''common''' in general practice. It is essential that these cases are handled in an appropriate way as the patients are normally very '''fragile''' and may go into respiratory arrest if they become too stressed.
The aims of the work up of a feline dyspnoea case are:
The aims of the work up of a feline dyspnoea case are:
* Dilated pupils
* Dilated pupils
Oxygen reserve is generally very low in dyspnoeic cats and you should avoid stressing them if at all possible. This is achieved by '''gentle handling, minimal procedures, and the use of a quiet, dimly-lit room'''.
Oxygen reserve is generally very low in dyspnoeic cats and you should avoid stressing them if at all possible. This is achieved by '''gentle handling, minimal procedures, and the use of a quiet, dimly lit room'''.
==Stabilisation==
==Stabilisation==
On presentation the cat should immediately be placed in an '''oxygen cage'''. This increases the animals oxygen reserve and allows it to relax following the journey to the practise. If an oxygen cage is not available then 'flow-by' oxygen should be supplied in a stress-free manner.
On presentation the cat should immediately be placed in an '''oxygen cage'''. This increases the animals oxygen reserve and allows it to relax following the journey to the practice. If an oxygen cage is not available then 'flow-by' oxygen should be supplied in a stress-free manner.
If the cat appears to be going into respiratory arrest then a '''general anaesthetic''' can be used to stabilise the animal, however this should be avoided if possible.
If the cat appears to be going into respiratory arrest then a '''general anaesthetic''' can be used to stabilise the animal, however this should be avoided if possible.