Surgery to open blocked nostrils in flat-faced cats 2017-2025

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Describe the clinical implications and surgical treatment of stenotic nares in brachycephalic cats using ala vestibuloplasty, and report the short- and long-term results perceived by veterinarians and owners. METHODS: Medical records of cats admitted for stenotic nares from 2017 to 2025 were reviewed. Cats that were treated with ala vestibuloplasty were included. A preoperative questionnaire was also filled out retrospectively. A respiratory grade was assigned based on the severity of respiratory signs exhibited in all cats, both pre- and postoperatively. Long-term follow-up of more than 6 months was evaluated via phone calls and owner questionnaires. RESULTS: Thirty-seven brachycephalic cats that underwent ala vestibuloplasty for stenotic nares treatment were included. Improvement in respiratory signs was observed in all cats postoperatively. The median preoperative respiratory score of 3 compared to 2 postoperatively. No major perioperative or postoperative complications occurred in cats undergoing their first nasal surgery during the study period. According to owners, quality of life was improved in 83.8% of cats following surgery. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Ala vestibuloplasty is a safe, feasible, and effective procedure to address stenotic nares in brachycephalic cats. Age, gender and breed were not significant factors for the outcome. This technique is associated with a long-term improvement in respiratory signs and quality of life. It provided high owner satisfaction and represents a practical option for managing feline brachycephalic airway syndrome.