Laryngospasm in the cat: how to intubate safely
5-year-old domestic shorthair cat that you are intubating for soft tissue surgery. As you bring the tube to the glottis, the arytenoids close tightly and you cannot pass it.
Which measure is most appropriate to facilitate intubation?
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A. Apply topical lidocaine to the arytenoids, wait a few seconds and gently pass an appropriately sized tube during inspiration
Correct. Lidocaine desensitises the laryngeal mucosa and reduces the closure reflex. After waiting for it to take effect, the tube is introduced without force as the arytenoids open on inspiration.
B. Use a benzocaine spray, which acts faster than lidocaine
Benzocaine can cause methaemoglobinaemia in cats, a species very sensitive to oxidative injury of haemoglobin. It must not be used.
C. Force the tube through with a rigid stylet while the glottis is closed
Forcing the tube injures the larynx, can cause laryngeal oedema and tracheal rupture, and worsens the spasm.
D. Give atropine, which relaxes the laryngeal muscles
Atropine is an anticholinergic that reduces secretions and bradycardia, but it does not relax the intrinsic laryngeal muscles or prevent laryngospasm.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Cats have a small, highly reactive larynx. Ensure an adequate anaesthetic plane, pre-oxygenate, use topical lidocaine and choose the tube by palpating the trachea. If complete laryngospasm occurs, oxygenate and deepen anaesthesia; in severe cases a neuromuscular blocker with ventilation may be required.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.