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Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Expired CO2 Measurement in Intubated or Spontaneously Breathing Patients from the Emergency Department
Published on: January 29, 2011
Approach to the respiratory patient
1Wheat Ridge Veterinary Specialists, 3695 Kipling Street, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033, USA. cmiller@wrah.com
Abstract:
Several challenges arise when evaluating a dog or cat with respiratory disease. The history can span a long period, and some owners may have a difficult time in recognizing or describing respiratory abnormalities. A good history and thorough physical examination are essential when evaluating the respiratory patient. There are some noninvasive diagnostics that can aid in the diagnosis of respiratory disease; however, other more invasive tests often require anesthesia, which can be a potential hazard with a respiratory patient. This article focuses on reviewing the function of the respiratory system and how best to identify and diagnose cats and dogs with respiratory disease by implementing a thorough history and physical examination as well as appropriate diagnostic testing.
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