Cat 101: Pneumothorax in Cats

A pneumothorax is a condition in which there is free air within the pleural space. The naturally occurring intra-pleural pressure maintains an equilibrium of around 5 cmH20, comparable to a vacuum, allowing the lungs to expand easily. Unwanted air, on the other hand, can enter this vacuum system, and the equilibrium is tuned to match that of the chest cavity rather of the lungs. Pneumothorax can occur as a result of trauma, such as when a ruptured lung allows atmospheric air to enter the pleural space.

Pneumothorax in cats is defined by the presence of air in the area surrounding the lungs. The lungs are the body's natural oxygen storage organs, expanding when the feline inhales, but if air surrounds the lungs, normal lung function is inhibited. Pneumothorax in cats can be caused by lung tissue rupture, severe force trauma, or bite wounds. If your cat has a pneumothorax, he or she will have severe breathing difficulties, which are sometimes deadly if left untreated.