Laryngeal Paralysis in Cats

Although some cases of laryngeal paralysis in cats may be mild and not require treatment, more severe cases often have a poor prognosis. Although cats presenting with voice change may not require urgent care, cats undergoing respiratory distress with signs such as harsh and noisy breathing, increased respiratory rate, and a blue or purple tongue (cyanosis), require emergency veterinary attention.

Laryngeal paralysis can be categorized as congenital or acquired. Congenital forms are present at birth and acquired are usually the result of injury or secondary to an underlying disease.

Laryngeal paralysis may lead to complications such as heatstroke or acute respiratory crisis.

Laryngeal paralysis is rare in cats and much more commonly seen in dogs. The most common form in cats is acquired laryngeal paralysis and it usually affects cats over the age of ten. The congenital form is very rare and is typically diagnosed in kittens or very young cats.

Laryngeal paralysis in cats can be acquired or congenital. The congenital form is very rare and likely related to genetic makeup. Factors such as infections or injuries can also be responsible for this defect at the time of birth.

The acquired form is more common but still rare overall and can have a variety of causes.Most cases are idiopathic with no underlying cause that can be identified

It can be a secondary condition of polyneuropathy or polymyopathy (diseases of the nervous and muscular systems). The cause can be iatrogenic (from previous medical treatment), if the nerves controlling the larynx are damaged during surgery, for example.

Other associated causes include:

• Cancer
• Tumors
• Injuries
• Some reports connect laryngeal paralysis with tick paralysis.

Symptoms of laryngeal paralysis present differently between cats and dogs. Cats rarely show noisy breathing and are also less prone to overheating.

The diagnostic process includes:

• A complete physical examination
• Bloodwork
• Diagnostic imaging such as chest X-rays
• Endoscopic examination of the throat under sedation

Treatment varies according to the severity of the case. Definitive treatment for more severe cases is surgical correction. Surgery comes with complications and it is almost impossible to restore 100% of previous laryngeal function.

Mild cases without severe symptoms might not need any treatment or might benefit from conservative therapies such as:

• Weight control
• Avoiding strenuous activities
• Keeping the cat indoors

In cases of acute respiratory crisis, life-saving therapies might be necessary, such as:

• Intubation
• Sedation
• Oxygen therapy
• Tracheostomy

In the case where laryngeal paralysis is caused by tick paralysis, tick removal and supportive therapy are required.

Laryngeal paralysis is a very rare condition in cats with little data about the prognosis.

The prognosis varies according to the severity of the case, but is overall poor. Surgical treatment can be effective but the risk of severe complications is high.

Laryngeal paralysis is not contagious. There are no specific preventatives for laryngeal paralysis in cats.

Laryngeal paralysis is rare in cats.

• Surgical correction
• Weight control
• Maintaining indoor lifestyle
• Avoiding strenuous activity