fFlat-faced (brachycephalic) dog and cat breeds have a signature look—short snouts, big eyes, and charming personalities. But behind their adorable appearance lies a serious health challenge: Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS). This condition affects breathing due to compressed facial structures and narrow airways, leading to symptoms like snoring, exercise intolerance, and, in some cases, life-threatening respiratory distress.

At Stanton Pet Hospital, we’re committed to helping pet owners understand the complexities of BAS and supporting them in making informed decisions about treatment and care.

What Is Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS)?

BAS is a group of anatomical abnormalities that affect the upper airways in certain dog and cat breeds. These structural issues make it harder for pets to breathe, especially during exercise, stress, or hot weather.

Breeds Commonly Affected

  • Dogs: Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus
  • Cats: Persians, Himalayans, Exotic Shorthairs

These breeds have shortened skulls but the same amount of soft tissue as other animals, which leads to overcrowded airways and inefficient breathing.

Learn more about brachycephalic cat breeds

Key Structural Abnormalities in BAS

  • Stenotic Nares: Narrow nostrils that limit airflow
  • Elongated Soft Palate: Excess tissue in the back of the throat that obstructs breathing
  • Everted Laryngeal Saccules: Swollen tissue pulled into the airway from chronic breathing effort
  • Hypoplastic Trachea: Underdeveloped, narrow windpipe (common in Bulldogs)

Explore additional flat-faced cat health concerns

How to Recognize Symptoms of BAS

Common Signs

  • Loud snoring or noisy breathing, even at rest
  • Frequent gagging, choking, or reverse sneezing
  • Difficulty exercising or reluctance to play
  • Heat intolerance
  • Regurgitation or vomiting after eating
  • Blue or pale gums (a sign of oxygen deprivation)

When It’s an Emergency

Seek immediate veterinary attention if your pet shows signs of respiratory distress:

  • Open-mouth breathing or gasping
  • Collapse or fainting
  • Panting heavily while inactive
  • Excessive drooling or foam around the mouth

Download the AAHA Respiratory Distress Emergency Guide

How Vets Diagnose BAS

A thorough diagnostic workup helps determine severity and treatment needs:

  • Physical Exam: Listening for abnormal breathing sounds, inspecting the nose and throat
  • Sedated Laryngoscopy: Direct visualization of soft palate and airway structures
  • Imaging: X-rays or CT scans to assess the trachea and surrounding anatomy

Learn more about BOAS in dogs from Cornell Vet

Treatment Options: Medical & Surgical

Medical Management for Mild Cases

  • Weight Management: Extra weight worsens breathing difficulties
  • Avoiding Triggers: Heat, stress, and strenuous activity can exacerbate symptoms
  • Use a Harness: Prevents throat pressure from collars
  • Environmental Control: Keep pets cool and limit exposure to allergens

Why Body Condition Matters – Purina Pro Club

Surgical Solutions for Moderate to Severe Cases

  • Stenotic Nares Surgery: Widens nostrils to improve airflow
  • Soft Palate Resection: Trims excess tissue that blocks the airway
  • Laryngeal Saccule Removal: Clears obstructive tissue to open the throat

Learn more about stenotic nares surgery

Anesthesia in Brachycephalic Pets: What to Know

Short-nosed pets are more prone to complications under anesthesia. Special precautions include:

  • Pre-oxygenation before induction
  • Use of specialized endotracheal tubes to secure the airway
  • Close monitoring with advanced equipment
  • Positioning and recovery techniques to prevent airway collapse

Tips for anesthesia in short-nosed pets – Fear Free Happy Homes

After Surgery: What Recovery Looks Like

Post-Op Care and Expectations

  • Temporary swelling and mild snoring are common
  • Soft food diet for 1–2 weeks
  • Limit activity for 2–3 weeks to reduce inflammation

Watch for Complications

Call your vet if your pet shows:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Swelling around the face or throat
  • Persistent coughing, gagging, or vomiting

Supportive Care and Prevention Tips

  • Avoid heat and humidity: Keep pets indoors during hot weather
  • Use cooling products: Mats, fans, or vests for summer walks
  • Keep your pet trim: A healthy weight dramatically reduces airway strain
  • Prioritize routine exams: Regular checkups help monitor breathing changes

Let’s Help Your Pet Breathe Easier

At Stanton Pet Hospital, we’re here to support your brachycephalic pet with personalized care—whether they need preventive strategies or surgical intervention.

If your pet is snoring more than usual, struggling with exercise, or showing signs of distress, don’t wait.

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Every breath matters. Let’s make sure yours can take them comfortably.