Bronchitis

                           ----------

                      General Information



The major air passages in the respiratory system include the

trachea (windpipe), bronchi and bronchioles.  Their purpose is

to channel air into the lungs, where oxygen and carbon dioxide

are exchanged, and convey exhaled air back to the outside.



Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchi and

bronchioles.  Tracheitis is inflammation of the tracheal lining.

Because the trachea, bronchi and bronchioles are connected,

what affects one may affect the other.  The disorder is then

called tracheobronchitis.



Causes of bronchitis include bacterial, viral and parasitic

infections, and such irritants as smoke, dust, smog and

caustic vapors.  Heart disease may also indirectly cause

bronchitis.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Laboratory tests and radiographs (x-rays) are necessary to

    diagnose the condition and monitor the response to treatment.

    In some cases, direct visualization of the respiratory tract

    with a bronchoscope is advised.  This is done under general

    anesthesia.



2.  Give all medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot give the medication.



3.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





4.  Activity:  During recovery period, your pet's activity

    should be restricted as follows:



5.  Environment:  Eliminate exposure to air pollutants, such as

    tobacco and incinerator smoke, dust, pollens, fumes and

    chemicals, as much as as possible.  Avoid using aerosol

    sprays near your pet.



        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet continues to cough or has coughing spasms uncontrolled

    by medication.



    * Your pet has difficulty breathing.



    * Your pet's gums and/or tongue are unusually pale or bluish.



    * Your pet makes a grunting sound when breathing or there is a

    blowing out and puffing of the lips and cheeks when

    breathing.



    * Your pet is reluctant to eat or seems depressed.



    * Your pet loses weight.