Upper airway obstruction in cats. Part I: Pathogenesis and clinical signs.

Nasopharyngeal polyps and foreign bodies are the most common nasopharyngeal obstructions in cats, but a good understanding of other conditions allows for early recognition and appropriate management. Abscesses, infection, stenosis, or neoplasia may obstruct the nasopharynx. Laryngeal obstruction may be caused by a variety of conditions such as granulomatous laryngitis, neopiasia, cysts, laryngospasm, and laryngeal paralysis. Extramural compression of the upper airway should also be considered. Clinical signs of upper airway obstruction provide valuable information about the degree of airway compromise and the anatomic compartment involved but are not specific for any particular disease process.