Use of continuous positive airway pressure in the acute management of laryngeal paralysis in a cat.

ABSTRACT

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) has been is used widely in humans to manage obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome, but it has not been widely used in animals. A brachycephalic cat, with previously undiagnosed laryngeal paralysis, that developed acute upper respiratory tract obstruction on recovery from anaesthesia, is presented. The condition was managed by CPAP, delivered via a facial mask.