[The therapy of chronic diseases of the respiratory tract in dogs and cats].

Chronic conditions of the respiratory system are a diagnostic as well as a therapeutic challenge to the veterinarian. In the majority of cases the protective structures, e.g. the vibrating epithelium, have already been irreversibly damaged, so that therapy can only relieve the trouble, but not lead to a full recovery. Prior to initiating a long-term therapy that requires a lot of patience from the veterinarian as well as the owner, it is therefore crucial to carry out a thorough diagnostic procedure. This is a review of the pathophysiological basis and the resulting diagnostic consequences of chronic diseases of the respiratory system. A few selected cases are discussed and recommendations for medical treatment are given.