Bronchoscopy

Cat bronchoscopy

For airway evaluation

We use bronchoscopy to examine the large and lower airways of cats with a flexible endoscopy camera. This procedure is typically recommended for cats with chronic coughing or breathing issues like wheezing. It is often combined with a CT scan of the lungs for a thorough assessment. Bronchoscopy requires general anaesthesia.

Since bronchoscopy is used in cats with unhealthy airways, it carries certain risks. These include pneumothorax (air leakage from the lungs into the chest cavity), worsening breathing difficulties, or anaesthesia-related complications. The clinician carefully monitors each case to minimise these risks.

Bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) considerations

In some cases, even though bronchoscopy might be the best way to achieve a definitive diagnosis, we may advise against it if the risks to your cat are too high. Should concerns arise about the procedure’s safety, we will thoroughly discuss the options and risks with you, so you can make the best decision for your cat’s wellbeing.

Bronchoscopy is often paired with a bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), where sterile water is flushed into the lungs and then suctioned back up. This fluid is then examined for its cellular content, bacterial growth and other infectious organisms to assist in diagnosis. Most cats stay overnight with us for continued monitoring and to begin treatment after the procedure.

What is bronchoscopy?

  • Bronchoscopy is a procedure that allows veterinarians to examine your cat’s lungs and airways. During bronchoscopy, a thin tube (bronchoscope) is passed through your cat’s mouth and down its windpipe into its lungs.
  • Bronchoscopy is most commonly performed using a flexible bronchoscope.

Why has my cat been recommended bronchoscopy?

  • Common reasons for needing a bronchoscopy are a persistent cough or wheeze, infection or something unusual seen on a chest X-ray or CT scanning.
  • Bronchoscopy can also be used to obtain samples of mucus or tissue, to remove foreign bodies or other blockages from the airways or lungs or to enable the development of a treatment plan.

Are there risks?

Unfortunately, although complications from bronchoscopy are uncommon and usually minor, they can occur. Complications may be more likely if the airways are inflamed or damaged by disease. Complications may be related to the procedure itself or the anaesthesia required.

Some possible complications include:

  • Airway spasm. A cat’s lower airways are very reactive (which is why they are so prone to getting bad asthma), and they can spasm from the presence of the bronchoscopy or the fluid. To reduce this occurrence, cats are commonly given bronchodilators (airway dilators) medications when their anaesthesia is first started.
  • Collapsed lung. In rare cases, an airway may be injured during bronchoscopy. If the lung is punctured, air can collect in the space around the lung, which can cause the lung to collapse. Usually, this problem is identified quickly and easily treated, but it may require a longer stay in the hospital.

It is important to note that although uncommon, these risks are possible. If we are worried that the risk of a complication is too high, we will recommend that the procedure not be performed and discuss alternative methods (such as treatment trials) to help your cat.

How long does the procedure take?

It really depends on the health of your cat’s airways, as the process can be very slow and meticulous. Bronchoscopy usually takes 30-45 minutes.

What happens during the procedure?

  • Your cat will be anaesthetised and have a tube placed into its trachea to supply oxygen. A lot of monitoring equipment is used, and typically, two nursing staff members monitor your cat’s anaesthetic and help with the procedure. Your feline veterinarian will then guide the bronchoscope into the different airways.
  • Depending on the patient, lung washes (bronchoalveolar lavage) may be performed following the airway assessment. The patient is then recovered from their anaesthetic and is very closely monitored for the next two hours after their procedure.

What is a bronchoalveolar lavage?

This forms another part of the airway examination. Sterile saline is flushed down the bronchoscopy (or a small sterile tube is placed into the airway), and the fluid is then sucked back up. This helps us to retrieve samples of the mucous, cells and possibly infectious agents that may be present.

When will we find out the results?

  • The bronchoscopy results are obtained the same day, and your feline veterinarian will telephone you once the procedure is completed to discuss them.
  • Samples submitted to the laboratory are taken within 24-72 hours, and we will call you when we receive them.

Will my cat be able to go home after the procedure is finished?

That really depends on the severity of your cat’s breathing problems. If the procedure has gone well and your cat is not severely affected, then they may be able to go home a few hours after the procedure. If we are concerned that their breathing is not normal, then we will discuss ongoing hospitalisation options with you.

Patient Stories

Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.

Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.

Tango Triumphs Over FIP

At 5 months old, Tango was diagnosed with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). Once considered a fatal disease, the introduction of new treatments has significantly boosted the survival rate.

Toffee Survives Tick Paralysis

Toffee faced a frightening battle with tick paralysis and aspiration pneumonia, she was rushed to AES when her owners noticed her vomiting, breathing difficulties and trouble walking.

JJ & the Lily – a close call

Mischievous JJ had a close call when he ingested part of a lily—an extremely toxic plant for cats. Thanks to the quick actions of his owner, Sophie, a VSS vet nurse, JJ made a full recovery.

Han’s Hip Fracture Surgery

Han presented after limping on his hind leg for two weeks following an accident at home. An X-ray revealed a fractured growth plate in his hip, requiring surgery to repair the injury.

Coco and Kidney Troubles

Coco stayed with us at CSS while recovering from a nephrectomy (the surgical kidney removal). After months of unsuccessful treatment for a ureteral obstruction, this became necessary.

 

Contacting Us

Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.

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Saturday/Sunday - Closed

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