Changes

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.

In some cases, the method of stabilisation is the same as the therapy, for example the drainage of pleural fluid.

In some cases, the method of stabilisation is the same as the therapy, for example the [[Thoracocentesis|drainage of pleural fluid]].

==Diagnosis==

==Diagnosis==

Whist the cat is in an oxygen cage, a '''thorough history''' should be taken, including the '''duration and progression of the dyspnoea''', any '''previous/current medical problems and medications''', '''husbandry''', '''appetite and thirst''' of the cat and whether they may be a history of '''trauma'''.

Whilst the cat is in an oxygen cage, a '''thorough history''' should be taken, including the '''duration and progression of the dyspnoea''', any '''previous/current medical problems and medications''', '''husbandry''', '''appetite and thirst''' of the cat and whether there may be a history of '''trauma'''.

A physical exam should then be performed to establish the location of the respiratory signs:

A physical exam should then be performed to establish the location of the respiratory signs: