Diagnostic evaluation of dogs and cats with respiratory distress

Respiratory distress is characterized by difficult or labored breathing. Dy spnea is the feeling of "air hunger" reported by humans; in veterinary pati ents, however, the term is often used to indicate respiratory distress. His torical findings and results of physical examination may suggest a cause of respiratory distress, but additional evaluation is often needed to reach a definitive diagnosis. This article presents a diagnostic approach for dogs and cats with respiratory distress.