Pulmonary edema, the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the tissue, airways, or air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs, may occur along with circulatory disorders (such as congestive heart failure) or in some allergic reactions or infectious diseases. Head trauma can cause pulmonary edema in cats. Labored breathing, with an increased rate, and open-mouth breathing may occur. Animals stand rather than lying down, lie only on their chest, or assume a sitting position. The veterinarian may be able to hear wheezing and crackling sounds in the chest. Oxygen supplementation can provide short-term relief, but treatment of the primary cause is also necessary. Medications called diuretics are typically used to remove excessive fluid from the lungs.
OTHER TOPICS IN THIS CHAPTER
Lung and Airway Disorders of Cats
Introduction to Lung and Airway Disorders of Cats
Disorders of the Chest Cavity of Cats
Allergic Pneumonitis in Cats
Bronchitis in Cats
Cancers and Tumors of the Lung and Airway in Cats
Diaphragmatic Hernia in Cats
Emphysema in Cats
Feline Respiratory Disease Complex (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Feline Calicivirus)
Laryngeal Disorders in Cats
Lung Flukes in Cats
Lungworm Infection in Cats
Nasopharyngeal Polyps in Cats
Pharyngitis in Cats
Pneumonia in Cats
Pulmonary Edema in Cats
Pulmonary Thromboembolism in Cats
Rhinitis and Sinusitis in Cats
Tonsillitis in Cats
Tracheobronchitis (Bronchitis, Bronchial Asthma) in Cats
