Phyllis has Respiratory Symptoms

Phyllis the Cat

Patient details

Name: Phyllis
Age: 7 years old
Breed: Manx Cross
Gender: Female

Phyllis, one of the rescue cats from the Cat Cuddle Café Brisbane, came to us for further diagnostics to investigate her ongoing respiratory symptoms.

Her bravery throughout the process made her a star patient, and we’re hopeful the tests will give us the answers needed to help her feel better soon.

We’re proud to be part of her care and are committed to finding the right diagnosis and treatment for this sweet girl.

Patient history

Initial symptoms

Phyllis presented with a persistent cough, sneezing and nasal discharge despite previous treatments, including oral and inhaled steroids, antibiotics and nebulisation. She had also experienced occasional vomiting after coughing, prompting the need for further investigation.

CT scan, bronchoscopy and BAL

To better understand the cause of her symptoms, we decided to perform a CT scan with contrast, a bronchoscopy and a bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). The bronchoscopy allowed us to visually inspect her airways while the BAL helped collect samples from her lungs for testing.

Procedure and recovery

Phyllis underwent general anaesthesia for the procedure. The team used a bronchoscope to inspect her bronchi and flushed saline into her lungs during the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) to collect cells and microorganisms. She recovered well after close monitoring and was discharged the same day.

Outcome

Phyllis’ CT images and BAL samples have been sent for analysis, and we are awaiting the results. We are hopeful that this additional testing will provide the insights needed to develop a diagnosis and treatment plan so she can continue to thrive under the care of her rescue team.

Phyllis
Phyllis

Are you worried about your cat’s health?

If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

For vets – 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.

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.

Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pm
Saturday/Sunday - Closed

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