Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)

Understanding BOAS

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) affects “brachycephalic” pets—those with short noses and flat faces. Common breeds include Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, British and Australian Bulldogs, and Persian or Burmese cats. This condition arises from structural abnormalities in the upper airway, often due to the mismatch between skull size and soft tissue volume. As a result, breathing can become difficult and uncomfortable for these pets. It is also well known that it is a systemic condition that often comes with gastrointestinal disease. Research has shown the long-term low oxygen levels in the bloodstream lead to a chronic inflammatory state throughout the body.

In addition to BOAS, at Burke Road Vet Clinic & Hospital, we frequently assist brachycephalic pets with managing other common conditions including dental disease, skin infections, and back and joint pain.

Signs of BOAS in Your Pet:

• Noisy breathing or snoring
• Open-mouth breathing
• Heat intolerance
• Reduced exercise ability
• Pale or bluish tongue

It’s important to recognise that these symptoms, while common in these breeds, are not “normal” and may signal significant discomfort.

Causes and complications

BOAS results from anatomical abnormalities, such as:

• Narrow nostrils (stenotic nares)
• Elongated or thickened soft palate
• Collapsed larynx or everted saccules
• Enlarged tonsils
• Narrow or undersized trachea

Over time, these issues can lead to airway inflammation, laryngeal collapse, heat stroke, and is often associated with gastrointestinal problems like reflux or hiatal hernia affecting your pet’s overall health.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination, airway assessment under sedation, X-rays and occasionally advanced imaging such as CT scans, if needed. Early intervention is essential to prevent severe complications. Although lifestyle changes can help keep your pet comfortable surgery has the biggest impact on quality of life.

Surgical Correction

Our team is experienced in BOAS diagnosis and corrective surgery, which focuses on improving airflow and enhancing your pet’s quality of life. The ideal time for surgery is during the first two years of life, before secondary changes occur. Research indicates that early intervention reduces the need for lifesaving surgery by 30% with each additional year of age.

Surgery may include one or all of the following:

• Widening nostrils
• Shortening/reducing the soft palate
• Removing everted saccules or enlarged tonsils

While surgery greatly improves breathing and quality of life, brachycephalic pets may never breathe as easily as longer-nosed breeds. Likewise although gastrointestinal signs may ease for some pets for others long-term medication may still be required.

Some patients with advanced disease may require referral to a specialist centre where 24h emergency support can be provided.

Post-Surgical and Long-Term Care

Improvement is often noticeable within 24–48 hours after surgery, though complete recovery may take a few weeks.

Managing your pet’s weight, reducing stress, and walking during cooler times of the day can significantly enhance their comfort.

Why Choose Our Clinic?

Our highly skilled team has extensive experience in caring for brachycephalic pets. We take every precaution before, during & after an anaesthesia and surgery to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort. In fact with us your pet will have one-on-one care throughout their stay. In addition to BOAS management, we offer tailored dental care and address related conditions like chronic pain or behavioural challenges.

Let’s Help Your Pet Breathe Easier

We’re committed to enhancing the lives of brachycephalic pets through compassionate and expert care. If you have questions or would like to discuss treatment options for your furry friend, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.