Laryngeal Paralysis in Cats: The Silent Killer
Laryngeal paralysis is a rare but potentially fatal disorder in cats that quietly progresses over time. Unlike many illnesses that manifest suddenly, this condition slowly obstructs the cat’s airway, often going unnoticed until the cat enters a critical state. Though more common in dogs, especially large breeds, laryngeal paralysis in cats should not be underestimated due to its severity and the subtle nature of its early symptoms.
What Is Laryngeal Paralysis?
Laryngeal paralysis is an upper airway disorder that occurs when the arytenoid cartilages and vocal folds in the larynx fail to open during inhalation, leading to airway obstruction and difficulty breathing. The condition arises from dysfunction of the recurrent laryngeal nerves, which are responsible for controlling the muscles in the larynx. This disruption limits proper airflow and causes a range of symptoms that worsen over time.
Causes of Laryngeal Paralysis in Cats
There are two main types:
- Congenital: Present from birth due to genetic or developmental defects. Rare in cats but possible, especially among young kittens.
- Acquired: Develops over time and is more commonly diagnosed in older cats. Acquired causes can include trauma, neck tumors, polyneuropathy, hypothyroidism, previous surgeries, or idiopathic reasons with no clear origin.
Clinical Signs and Symptoms
Since the disease progresses gradually, symptoms often go unnoticed until they become severe. Watch out for the following:
- Noisy or raspy breathing
- Harsh or dry cough
- Voice changes such as hoarseness or complete loss
- Increased respiratory effort
- Exercise intolerance and lethargy
- Gagging, coughing after eating or drinking
- Regurgitation
- Rapid breathing at rest
- Blue or purple gums/tongue (cyanosis)
- Collapse during exertion or stress
These signs are often exacerbated by stress, heat, or exercise, making environmental control vital for affected cats.
Diagnosis
Veterinarians use a multi-step approach to diagnose laryngeal paralysis:
- Physical and neurological examinations
- Owner history of symptoms and progression
- Laboratory tests and bloodwork
- Chest or cervical radiographs
- Direct visualization using laryngoscopy or endoscopy under light anesthesia
During endoscopy, the failure of the larynx to open during inhalation confirms the diagnosis. Advanced imaging or genetic testing may be used in complex cases.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the condition’s severity:
- Conservative Management: For mild cases, management may include:
- Weight control
- Reducing physical exertion and stress
- Avoiding heat exposure
- Using a harness instead of a neck collar
- Physical therapy (mainly for dogs but also beneficial for some cats)
- Medical Management: For acute episodes and flare-ups
- Anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., corticosteroids)
- Oxygen therapy
- Sedation in cases of anxiety or panic
- Cooling in cases of heat stress
- Antibiotics if aspiration pneumonia develops
- Surgical Treatment: Required for moderate to severe cases
- The most common surgery is Unilateral Arytenoid Lateralization, or "tie-back surgery." A suture permanently opens one side of the larynx, improving airflow while minimizing aspiration risk.
- Other surgeries may be considered if tie-back isn’t viable.
Postoperative and Long-Term Care
After surgery, proper care is critical:
- Activity restriction for 6–8 weeks to support healing
- Feeding techniques: Use canned food and elevated feeding dishes
- Avoid collars; always use a harness
- No swimming due to increased aspiration risk
- Weight monitoring and regular vet check-ups
Potential Complications
Laryngeal paralysis and its treatment carry the risk of complications, such as:
- Aspiration pneumonia
- Persistent coughing or gagging
- Incision infections or seromas post-surgery
- Loss of vocalization
- Suture failure or further cartilage damage
- Recurrent airway obstruction
Prognosis
With proper surgical intervention and lifelong monitoring, many cats can lead healthier lives. However, the overall prognosis remains guarded in felines due to the disease’s rarity and the limited data on long-term outcomes. A successful surgery can significantly improve breathing and quality of life, although the ongoing risk of aspiration pneumonia requires careful observation and management.
Prevention and Awareness
There is currently no known prevention for laryngeal paralysis. However, being aware of early warning signs and seeking prompt veterinary evaluation is essential. If the condition is secondary to something treatable, like hypothyroidism, addressing the root cause can improve outcomes.
Ultimately, cat owners must remain vigilant. The condition has earned the nickname “silent killer” because many cats suffer silently until the disease reaches a critical point. Keeping your cat’s respiratory health in check and not dismissing subtle behavioral or breathing changes could save their life.
