Feline Asthma is a respiratory condition that affects cats and can cause coughing, wheezing, and other respiratory issues. Cats with asthma can have difficulty breathing, and will have an increased risk of developing pneumonia. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and asthma attacks can be triggered by allergens such as dust mites or pollen. Treatment typically involves the use of an aerosol inhaler or an oral steroid medication. In some cases, anti-inflammatory drugs can also be prescribed. It’s important to work with a veterinarian to develop an appropriate treatment plan for your cat, as the condition can be quite serious if left untreated.
It’s also important to be aware of potential triggers, as avoiding them can help prevent asthma attacks. Common environmental triggers include smoke, perfumes, and strong odors. Some cats can be sensitive to certain foods or dust particles in the air. If you suspect your cat’s asthma is triggered by something in the environment, consult your veterinarian about ways to reduce exposure.
Keeping your cat’s environment clean and free of allergens is important. Vacuuming regularly and wiping down surfaces can help reduce the presence of dust mites. It’s also important to keep up with vaccinations and other preventative measures such as flea control, as respiratory issues can be more severe in cats with weakened immune systems.
It’s essential to monitor your cat’s symptoms closely and contact your veterinarian if you notice any changes. With proper treatment and care, cats with asthma can still lead happy, active lives.
Symptoms of Feline Asthma
Feline asthma is marked by coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Other common symptoms include:
- Open-mouth breathing
- Increased salivation
- Decrease in energy levels
In severe cases, cats will have labored breathing and even cyanosis (a bluish tinge to their skin). If your cat has any of these signs, it’s important to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Diagnosing Feline Asthma
In order to diagnose asthma in cats, your veterinarian will need to perform a physical exam and review your cat’s history. Your vet could also recommend diagnostic tests such as chest x-rays and bloodwork to confirm the diagnosis. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, your vet might also suggest allergy testing or bronchoscopy (an examination of the airways using a camera).
Stages of Feline Asthma
Feline asthma is generally split into four stages of severity.
Stage 1
The first stage is characterized by mild symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, increased salivation, and open-mouth breathing.
Stage 2
During the second stage, cats can have more severe respiratory issues, including labored breathing and cyanosis.
Stage 3
In the third stage, cats will have difficulty breathing in enough oxygen and will have an increased risk of developing pneumonia.
Stage 4
The fourth stage is the most severe, and cats in this stage will have extreme difficulty breathing and could collapse due to lack of oxygen.
Treating Feline Asthma
In order to successfully treat feline asthma, it’s important to work with a veterinarian to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Treatment typically involves the use of an aerosol inhaler or an oral steroid medication, and in some cases anti-inflammatory drugs could also be prescribed. It’s important to identify and avoid any potential triggers that could be causing your cat’s asthma symptoms. It’s essential to monitor your cat’s symptoms closely and contact your veterinarian if you notice any changes. With proper treatment and care, cats with asthma can still lead happy, active lives.
Preventing Feline Asthma
It’s important to take preventive measures to help reduce the risk of feline asthma attacks. Keeping your cat’s environment clean and free of allergens, such as dust or dander, is essential. Vacuuming regularly and wiping down surfaces can also help reduce the presence of dust mites. It’s important to be aware of potential triggers, as avoiding them can help prevent asthma attacks.