What are Stenotic Nares?
Stenotic Nares are a congenital condition that lead to abnormally narrow nostrils which inhibit adequate airflow.
Who’s at Risk?
Stenotic Nares is one component of the Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), which affects brachycephalic dogs. “Brachy-” meaning short and “cephalic” meaning head describes Boxers, Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Pekingese, and other flat-faced dogs and cats. Other possible components of BOAS include elongated soft palate, everted laryngeal saccules, and tracheal hypoplasia.
Signs of Stenotic Nares
- Noisy breathing
- Retching, gagging, vomiting
- Exercise intolerance
- Heat intolerance and overheating
Obesity will worsen these signs.
Diagnosis of Stenotic Nares
A definitive diagnosis is made by your pet’s primary care veterinarian during a routine examination.
Treatment: Corrective Surgery
The goal of treatment is to surgically widen the lumen (or opening) of the nostrils to allow increased airflow. This is accomplished by using a scalpel to remove a small, symmetrical wedge-shaped piece from each nostril.
Home Care After Surgery
After surgery your pet will be sent home with pain medication and an Elizabethan collar (e-collar). The e-collar should be worn until the recheck appointment 10-14 days after the procedure to avoid rubbing and pawing at the incision sites.