Nunu’s Journey: Breathing Freely After Severe Nasal Stenosis

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Updated Date

Jul 24, 2025

Condition

Severe Nasal Stenosis

Subtle breathing changes. A missing purr. A growing struggle that finally made sense. This is how one quiet kitten regained his voice and his comfort through skilled surgical care.

A gray cat named Nunu with yellow eyes is gently held by a gloved hand. The cat's face is up close, showing how its nostrils are narrowed.

Case Overview

Nunu, a 2-year-old Scottish Fold, was brought to our clinic in Jumeirah for a general examination, but his family had noticed something concerning. Over time, his breathing had become increasingly noisy, primarily through the nose.

As a kitten, Nunu used to purr often, but as he grew, that sound slowly disappeared, replaced by laboured, effortful breathing.

Diagnosis & Decision

During the consultation, Dr. Rokas diagnosed severe nasal stenosis, a condition characterized by abnormally narrow nostrils that restrict airflow.

This explained Nunu’s respiratory strain and the gradual loss of his purring. After discussing treatment options, corrective nasal surgery was proposed to improve his breathing and overall comfort.

The Procedure

Under general anesthesia, Dr Rokas performed corrective surgery on the nasal openings to reduce the narrowing and allow for proper airflow.

The procedure was completed smoothly, and Nunu showed immediate post-operative improvement, breathing with much less resistance than before.

The Road to Recovery

Following surgery, Nunu’s breathing eased significantly. The difference was evident within hours. He could finally inhale and exhale through his nose without resistance.

By just one week post-op, his energy had returned, his curiosity had reignited, and his beloved purr began to resurface. His personality felt brighter, and his family was overjoyed to see him so at ease.

Nunu's nostrils before and after surgery.

“Breathing issues in flat-faced breeds can often go unnoticed until they worsen. In Nunu’s case, early surgical intervention helped restore comfort and quality of life.”
- Dr. Rokas Proscevicius

Nunu Today

Nunu continues to recover well and is thriving at home. He’s more playful, more relaxed, and finally free to breathe the way he was meant to. His case is a gentle reminder that even subtle changes in your pet’s breathing shouldn’t be ignored.

The Procedure

Under general anesthesia, Dr Rokas performed corrective surgery on the nasal openings to reduce the narrowing and allow for proper airflow.

The procedure was completed smoothly, and Nunu showed immediate post-operative improvement, breathing with much less resistance than before.

The Road to Recovery

Following surgery, Nunu’s breathing eased significantly. The difference was evident within hours. He could finally inhale and exhale through his nose without resistance.

“Breathing issues in flat-faced breeds can often go unnoticed until they worsen. In Nunu’s case, early surgical intervention helped restore comfort and quality of life.”
- Dr. Rokas Proscevicius

Nunu Today

Written by

Dr. Rokas Proscevicius

Veterinary Surgeon

Dr. Rokas Proscevicius is a veterinary surgeon specializing in Emergency and Critical Care. He has extensive experience in Small Animal Surgery and Internal Medicine.