Pulmonary function testing in small animals.

Pulmonary function testing (PFT) may be used to help provide objective information concerning the respiratory system in dogs and cats. Available techniques for PFT include spirometry, tidal breathing flow-volume loop analysis, barometric whole-body plethysmography, dynamic and static compliance, and lung and upper airway resistance. The information gained from PFT may help both in patient management and also in gaining understanding of the pathophysiology of the pulmonary system.