15/09/2024
What is ‘BOAS’?
BOAS stands for Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. This is a complex condition affecting some flat-faced dog and cat breeds. As the skull is shortened via selective breeding, the soft tissues inside do not reduce in size proportionately therefore causing upper airway obstruction. Moreover, some dogs also have developmental issues of the airway cartilage – it is very common to see pugs with abnormally soft laryngeal structures (voice box) which are collapsible when breathing effort is high. The muscles within the upper airway can also be affected and unable to open up the airway sufficiently when needed, particularly when the dog is asleep.
These factors can all contribute in different ways to BOAS and many will get progressively worse the longer they are left untreated.
French bulldogs, English bulldogs and pugs are most commonly affected by BOAS. However, other breeds such as Boston terriers, Japanese Chins, Pekingese, and shih tzus can be affected by the condition.