Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a therapeutic method that applies constant air pressure to maintain open airways. While often associated with human medicine, CPAP is also a specialized veterinary treatment for felines. This non-invasive respiratory support helps manage breathing difficulties, improving their oxygenation and overall respiratory function.
What is CPAP for Cats
In veterinary medicine, CPAP for cats delivers a continuous stream of pressurized air to prevent airway collapse. This positive pressure acts as a pneumatic splint, keeping airways open, which reduces airway resistance and the effort required for breathing. The result is improved thoracic expansion and better gas exchange in the lungs.
A CPAP system for cats involves a specialized machine that generates airflow and a custom-fitted interface, such as a helmet or a mask. Helmets are often preferred over face masks due to better tolerability and their ability to create a seal around the neck. This setup ensures a consistent pressure, often around 5 cmH2O, is maintained throughout the respiratory cycle.
When CPAP is Used for Cats
CPAP is used for various medical conditions in cats, particularly those involving respiratory distress. It supports cats during the postoperative period, especially brachycephalic breeds or those with airway or lung pathologies. General anesthesia can lead to reductions in oxygenation and pulmonary atelectasis, which CPAP can help mitigate.
The therapy also addresses sleep apnea, where cats experience temporary breathing cessations during sleep due to airway obstruction. While no pet-specific CPAP machines exist, the concept of positive airway pressure helps alleviate symptoms by preventing obstructions. Other uses include acute upper airway obstruction, where low CPAP levels have successfully treated cats recovering from anesthesia. CPAP increases airway diameter and functional residual capacity, improving oxygenation and normalizing respiratory rates.
Practical Aspects of CPAP for Cats
Administering CPAP to cats involves specialized equipment like a helmet system, effective in delivering pressure and improving oxygenation in sedated cats during short procedures. While feasible in anesthetized or deeply sedated cats, its application in awake or lightly sedated cats requires further research into more tolerable interfaces. The goal is a fixed level of pressure support, adjustable by a veterinarian based on the cat’s needs.
CPAP use in cats is generally short-term or confined to a clinical setting, requiring specialized interfaces and monitoring. Challenges for owners include ensuring the cat’s acceptance of the mask or helmet and managing machine noise. Veterinary supervision is paramount to monitor the cat’s response and adjust settings, ensuring optimal respiratory support.