Airway Basics
What is the main job of the respiratory system?
To supply oxygen to body cells and remove carbon dioxide.
Where does oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange occur?
Alveoli
What muscle helps pull air into the lungs?
Diaphragm
What are the two types of pneumonia?
Bacterial and viral
What species commonly gets kennel cough?
Dogs
What structure is known as the “throat”?
Pharynx
What tiny air sacs are found at the end of bronchioles?
Alveoli
What happens to the diaphragm during inhalation?
Contracts and moves downward
What disease is commonly caused by shipping stress in cattle?
Shipping Fever
What is kennel cough also called?
Bordetella or Tracheobronchitis
Which structure contains the vocal folds?
Larynx
Why are alveoli good for gas exchange? (give one reason)
Thin walls / large surface area / surrounded by capillaries (any one)
What happens to the thoracic cavity during exhalation?
Decreases in size
What abnormal lung sound may be heard with pneumonia?
Crackles / rales / pleural friction rub
What species is most affected by heaves?
Horses
Why is the epiglottis important during swallowing?
Prevents food and liquid from entering the airway during swallowing.
What substance prevents alveoli from collapsing?
Surfactant
What causes negative pressure in the chest?
Diaphragm contraction and rib expansion
What is an upper respiratory infection (URI)?
Infection affecting the nose, throat, or upper airways
What environmental trigger often causes heaves?
Dust / poor ventilation / allergens
Put these in order: trachea, bronchi, nasal cavity, alveoli, pharynx
Nasal cavity → Pharynx → Trachea → Bronchi → Bronchioles → Alveoli
Why might premature animals need a respirator?
They lack surfactant, making it hard to inflate lungs.
Name two factors that affect respiration rate
Exercise, temperature, excitement, pain, fever, oxygen levels
Why is vaccination important in preventing respiratory disease?
It helps prevent disease spread and reduces severity
Why does roaring reduce performance in horses?
Narrowed airway limits airflow during exercise