Endotracheal intubation in cats
What is endotracheal intubation?
Endotracheal intubation is the placement of a flexible plastic tube into the trachea to maintain a safe, patent airway and as a way to administer volatile anaesthetic gases and oxygen. Intubation is performed when animals are anaesthetised or require ventilation.
Why should I intubate cats?
It is vital that you are able to perform endotracheal intubation safely in feline patients in order to ensure that a safe airway is maintained, to be able to provide effective ventilation and potentially to reduce potential theatre pollution when using volatile anaesthetics.
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Why are cats more difficult to intubate?
Cats can be difficult to intubate due to their small size, unique anatomy and sensitive larynx. Cats can have a sensitive larynx, which can be prone to laryngospasm during intubation. This can make intubation more difficult and can even cause respiratory obstruction. Using a topical local anaesthetic spray, such as Intubeaze, prior to intubation desensitises the laryngeal mucosa, preventing stimulation of the laryngeal reflex to reduce the risk of laryngospasm and make intubation easier.
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How can I make intubation in cats easier?
Intubeaze, containing lidocaine, is the only veterinary licensed local anaesthetic spray for desensitising the larynx of cats prior to intubation.
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How do I intubate a cat?
For a best practice guide demonstrating how to intubate a cat safely, including how to use Intubeaze.
What kind of endotracheal tube should I choose and how do I prepare to intubate a brachycephalic patient?
Alex Dugdale MA VetMB PhD DVA DipECVAA PGCert(LTHE) FHEA MRCVS answers all of your feline intubation questions.
Supporting you in anaesthesia
Dechra provide a range of resources to support you in providing anaesthesia tailored to every unique animal.
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