In this blog post, we have compiled the key highlights from the session titled “Thoracic, Cardiac, and Vascular Surgery in Cats and Dogs”, presented by Prof. Dr. Hakan Salcı, held as part of VetSummit 2025: New Horizons in Veterinary Clinical Sciences, sponsored by the Kito Healthy Pet Nutrition Ecosystem. We would like to thank our speaker for the presentation.
Thoracic, Cardiac, and Vascular Surgery in Cats and Dogs: The Vital Journey of Breathing and Circulation
This time, on the clinical sciences stage of VetSummit, we took a closer look at a highly critical field that directly affects the lives of our furry companions: thoracic (chest), cardiac, and vascular surgery in cats and dogs. Prof. Dr. Hakan Salcı from Bursa Uludağ University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine explained both the essential anatomy and the emergency conditions commonly encountered in daily practice, supported by real case examples throughout the session.
As Kito, we summarized the key insights from this valuable session in a way that pet parents can easily understand—because sometimes what looks like “shortness of breath” or “getting tired quickly” can be a warning sign of something far more serious.
What Is the Thorax, and Why Is It So Important?
The thorax, or chest cavity, is essentially home to two vital organ systems:
- The respiratory system: the lungs
- The circulatory system: the heart and major blood vessels
Because problems in this region directly affect breathing and blood circulation, thoracic surgery is considered one of the most delicate areas in veterinary medicine.
One point especially emphasized by Prof. Salcı was this:
Before performing thoracic surgery, anatomy and physiology must be understood extremely well—because the surgical approach from the right or left side changes which organs can be accessed and which techniques should be used.
The Most Common Reasons for Thoracic Surgery: Traumatic and Non-Traumatic Causes
Conditions requiring thoracic surgery can be broadly grouped into two categories:
1) Traumatic Causes (Sudden-Onset Emergencies)
The most common include:
- traffic accidents
- falls from height
- fights and bite wounds
- blunt trauma (impact or crushing injuries)
These cases may cause emergencies such as rib fractures, pulmonary contusions, or air leakage into the chest cavity.
2) Non-Traumatic Causes (Congenital or Acquired Conditions)
Examples include:
- congenital cardiac abnormalities
- lung tumors
- esophageal foreign bodies
- pleural or pericardial fluid accumulation
Some of these conditions may progress silently, which makes routine veterinary check-ups especially important.
A Major Emergency in Pets: Pneumothorax (Air Accumulation in the Chest Cavity)
One of the most detailed topics in the session was pneumothorax. Simply put:
Pneumothorax refers to air entering the chest cavity, causing partial or complete collapse of the lung.
It may occur due to trauma, but can also develop spontaneously because of lung lesions or tumors.
What warning signs at home should be treated as an emergency?
- open-mouth breathing
- obvious respiratory distress
- very rapid breathing
- weakness and a collapsed posture
- pale or bluish mucous membranes
- sudden rapid deterioration
As Prof. Salcı emphasized:
Pneumothorax is an emergency, and the first goal is to stabilize breathing and circulation.
If necessary, air is removed using a chest tube, and negative pressure is restored.
Chylothorax: Can “Milky White” Lymph Fluid Collect in the Chest?
Yes—it can. Chylothorax is the accumulation of lymphatic (chylous) fluid in the thoracic cavity.
It may present with:
- respiratory distress
- exercise intolerance (fatigue easily)
- reduced appetite
- weight loss
Diagnosis is supported by the milky-white appearance of pleural fluid and its triglyceride levels.
Treatment may be medical or surgical (such as thoracic duct ligation), depending on the case.
A Congenital Condition: PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus)
Another important topic was PDA, which is the persistence of a vascular connection that should close after birth.
In young animals with PDA, signs may include:
- getting tired quickly
- heavy breathing
- stunted growth
- pulmonary edema
Diagnosis is confirmed through advanced imaging (echocardiography and, in some cases, CT/MRI), and most cases are treated surgically by closing the abnormal connection.
After successful intervention, cardiac workload decreases and quality of life improves significantly.
The Hidden Hero of Surgical Success: Proper Monitoring and Support
In thoracic and cardiac surgeries, the process does not end with the operation. As Prof. Salcı explained, even the smallest detail matters:
- full monitoring during anesthesia
- blood gas analysis, oxygen saturation tracking, ECG monitoring
- appropriate management of drainage duration
- postoperative pain control and calm recovery conditions
- supporting overall physical resilience as part of healing
Where Does Nutrition Fit Into This Process?
For pets dealing with thoracic or cardiovascular problems, highly digestible, balanced, clean-ingredient nutrition is extremely valuable.
Because:
- the body needs high-quality protein for tissue repair,
- the immune system is under stress and needs support,
- appetite may decrease, so smaller portions with stronger nutritional density are often more appropriate.
At Kito, we value supporting pets through these sensitive periods with fresh, natural-ingredient products developed alongside veterinary professionals. Every pet’s needs are different, so nutrition plans should always be designed together with your veterinarian.
In Summary…
This session reminded us once again:
Breathing and circulation sit at the very center of life for our furry companions.
In chest, heart, and vascular conditions, early recognition and timely veterinary support can save lives. If you notice breathing changes, sudden weakness, or unusually rapid fatigue in your pet, do not assume it will “go away.” Consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.
We are all here together to support our pets in living long, healthy, and joyful lives.
We will continue sharing key highlights from the sessions of VetSummit 2025: New Horizons in Veterinary Clinical Sciences, sponsored by the Kito Healthy Pet Nutrition Ecosystem. See you in our upcoming content that will support your clinical practice.
For more information about Kito, you can visit www.kito.pet, follow our social media accounts, or contact us at info@kito.pet.