The use of caffeine as a respiratory stimulant in a cat

Abstract

Objective: To report the use of caffeine as a respiratory stimulant in a cat with hypoventilation.Case summary: A cat was mechanically ventilated due to persistent hypercapnia (P et CO 2 > 75 mm Hg) following median sternotomy and thymectomy. After 3 days of mechanical ventilatory support, the cat would initiate breaths but failed weaning due to persistent hypercapnia. Following administration of intravenous caffeine (total 12 mg/kg over 24 h), respiratory and mental status rapidly improved. The cat was subsequently extubated and able to maintain PvCO 2 < 50 mm Hg. The cat was later diagnosed with myasthenia gravis. Quality of life 13 months after discharge was reported as excellent by her owner.New or unique information provided: Caffeine may be considered as a respiratory stimulant in cats with hypoventilation.