Himalayan's question about Soft Palate Disorders

Question

I have a 16 year old himalayan cat who recently had an MRI for her breathing issue. She was diagnosed with an elongated soft palette & advised surgery wasn't an option for her age. Her breathing is becoming more laboured 
 as her soft tissues degenerate, but she's still active, eating, tioletting & still often playful. She has category 2 renal failure which we manage with diet & she eats & drinks well. I know surgery is a huge risk for a senior cat but I feel useless not being able to help her breathing. Could surgery be a potential option at 16 if she's going to be unable to breath soon...or would euthanasia be the more humane option. I don't want to cause her additional suffering but I'm also prepared to take any necessary step to help extend her life while she's still a happy & mentally/physically active cat. Any advice appreciated. 
Sincerely, Marlowe.

Accepted Answer

I think whether she has the surgery depends on the skill level of the surgeon, to a point.  Some surgeons are very adept at this surgery, and it would be a quick procedure.  Whether you have the surgery done and take risks with her kidney function and age is up to you, really.  If she is suffering from her soft palate issue, you may need to make a decision, one way or another, to make sure that she is comfortable.  Your veterinarian can discuss risks and benefits in more detail with  you.

Soft Palate Disorders in Cats