Page 2770 - Cote clinical veterinary advisor dogs and cats 4th

1440 Pneumonia, Aspiration

Pneumonia, Aspiration
VetBooks.ir Witnessed aspiration Suspected aspiration

Suction mouth and
upper airways

• Assess respiratory rate and character
• Assess oxygenation
• Obtain thoracic radiographs

Mild disease* Moderate disease* Severe disease*
• Eupnea • Tachypnea • Dyspnea
2
• PaO 2 85 mm Hg, SpO 94% • PaO 60-85 mm Hg, SpO 90%-94% • PaO 2 60 mm Hg, SpO 90%
2
2
2
• Careful observation for 48 hours • Consider positive pressure
• Respiratory rate/character q 1-2h ventilation
• Oxygenation q 8-12h • Other measures as for moderate
• Repeat radiographs in 24 hours severity
Broad spectrum antibiotics (e.g.,

beta lactam + fluroquinolone)
often indicated

• Oxygen supplementation: nasal cannula or cage
FIO typically 30%-40%
2
Monitor PaO or SpO q 4-6h
2
2
• Maintain hydration: parenteral crystalloid fluids as needed
60 mL/kg/d dehydration ongoing loss
• Antibiotic therapy: culture susceptibility ideal
Antimicrobials are not always required
Choice of oral or parenteral guided by severity of illness
Initial choice often beta lactam
• Nebulization: saline
Antibiotics, bronchodilators, mucolytics can be added to
nebulization fluid (rarely done)
• Physiotherapy:
Coupage q 6h
Encourage movement, change positions
• AVOID cough suppressants
*For all, minimize risk of further aspiration or damage from aspiration.

AUTHOR & EDITOR: Leah A. Cohn, DVM, PhD, DACVIM

www.ExpertConsult.com