Emergency Guide: How to Handle Cat Esophageal Obstructi

Causes: Cats may suffer from esophageal obstruction due to various factors such as hunger, competition for food, or swallowing partially chewed food, swallowing too quickly, or inadvertently ingesting chunks of food like cartilage or meat. This can lead to a blockage in the esophagus, specifically at the area between the sternum and the esophageal hiatus, which is difficult to treat. When the esophagus contracts or is stimulated by food, the cat may experience pain.

Symptoms: The onset of the condition is sudden, with the cat appearing restless, stretching its neck, and drooling. The esophagus in the neck cannot be felt for the blockage, and there is a sensitive pain when the chest is pressed.

Treatment: Initially, administer 5 mL of liquid paraffin. Then, inject 0.15 mL of Jingsongling (3 mg/kg body weight) into the cat's neck muscles. After 5 minutes, the cat will enter a state of sedation, with muscle relaxation and general weakness. The operator should then gently grasp the cat's head with their right hand and, using their left hand, gently stroke the esophagus towards the chest for 10 minutes. Thanks to the lubricating effect of the liquid paraffin and the musclerelaxing action of Jingsongling, along with the movement of gas within the esophagus, the blockage will be moved into the stomach, leading to a successful recovery.