Feline asthma acts in cats like asthma does in the human body. It is a chronic respiratory condition that affects the cat’s airways. It can lead to inflammation and make it difficult for a cat to breathe. Just like human asthma, feline asthma can be anywhere from mild to severe. The symptoms may include wheezing, labored breathing, and coughing. When a cat has asthma, it can have a negative effect on their quality of life. If the cat has a severe case, it can even be life-threatening.

If your cat has been diagnosed with this condition, it’s important to learn how to manage it well and be proactive about their care. Being able to recognize symptoms early and having a well-planned treatment regimen can help minimize flare-ups and keep your feline friend comfortable. Working with your vet to develop the right strategies can help you reduce the discomfort and stress often associated with feline asthma. This will allow your furry family member to live a healthier and happier life.

Let’s take a look at how pet parents can support asthmatic cats. There are numerous medical treatments and alternative care options that can be very helpful.

Understanding Feline Asthma

What causes feline asthma? The condition occurs when a cat’s immune system overacts to environmental irritants. When this happens, the airways become inflamed and narrow. This type of reaction makes breathing difficult and can distress your cat. The exact cause isn’t always clear, but most vets (and human doctors) consider asthma to be an allergic condition triggered by factors in the environment.

Common Causes and Triggers of Feline Asthma

Lifestyle and environmental factors can trigger feline asthma. Cats can have different triggers, but some of the most common ones include:

·         Allergens: Mold, dust mites, pollen, and even cleaning products commonly trigger asthmatic episodes in cats. Petting your cat with our Pawer Cat SPA Glove helps keep some allergens off their bodies.

·         Environmental Irritants: Aerosol spray, scented candles, perfumes, and cigarette smoke can irritate a cat’s airways.

·         Stress: When a cat is experiencing high stress levels, it can cause a flare-up or exacerbate asthmatic symptoms.

·         Changes in Weather: Extreme temperatures, both cold or hot, and humidity can trigger asthmatic problems. Keeping your cat dry using an all-natural Pawer Pet Towel can help keep them comfortable.

Knowing what the triggers are can help you minimize exposure and reduce the severity or frequency of asthmatic episodes.

Symptoms of Feline Asthma

Becoming familiar with the signs of asthma problems helps you be proactive. Early intervention can help keep symptoms from worsening.

·         Coughing: In cats, a dry or hacking cough is often mistaken for trying to expel a hairball or gagging.

·         Wheezing: If your cat is wheezing, you may notice a whistling or high-pitched sound especially when they breathe out.

·         Trouble Breathing: If you notice your cat breathing with an open mouth or having exaggerated chest movements, they may be having a respiratory issue.

·         Lethargy: Cats that have asthma may become tired more easily, avoid activity, or be less playful.

·         Pale or Blue Gums: This is a sign of severe oxygen deprivation and requires immediate veterinary treatment.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Asthma in Cats

If you notice your cat has respiratory problems like coughing, wheezing, or trouble breathing, you’ll want to get them to the vet for an accurate diagnosis. It’s important to note that feline asthma can share symptoms with other respiratory conditions, so you’ll want a vet to examine your cat for a proper diagnosis. An early diagnosis helps manage symptoms and can prevent complications.

These days, it’s easy to rely on online resources to try to diagnose feline asthma yourself. But a proper diagnosis needs professional expertise. Several respiratory conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, and even heart disease can cause breathing problems. A veterinary exam ensures a correct diagnosis so your cat can get the right treatment.

Diagnostic Methods

A veterinarian may use different tests and tools to diagnose feline asthma and rule out other possibilities. Here are a few of the possible methods a vet may use:

·         Symptom Assessment

·         Medical History

·         X-rays

·         Blood Tests

·         Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL)

·         Allergy Testing

Difference In Feline Asthma and Other Respiratory Conditions

One of the difficulties in diagnosing feline asthma is being able to distinguish between it and other conditions with similar symptoms such as:

·         Chronic Bronchitis: Bronchitis may overlap with asthma, but it involves long-term inflammation that is reversible unlike asthma.

·         Pneumonia: This infection can cause breathing difficulties and coughing, but it usually has a fever and lethargy.

·         Heart Disease: Some heart conditions, like congestive heart failure can have similar symptoms like wheezing and labored breathing.

·         Upper Respiratory Infections: This type of infection usually involves nasal discharge and sneezing, which are not common to asthma.

Getting an accurate diagnosis builds a foundation for effectively managing asthma. Working closely with your vet and following their recommendations can ensure your furry friend gets good care. A confirmed diagnosis can open up various treatment options and strategies that improve your cat’s quality of life.

Treatment Options for Feline Asthma

Once your cat is diagnosed with feline asthma, your vet will develop an effective treatment plan. The goal of developing a treatment plan is to reduce airway inflammation, manage symptoms, and improve your cat’s quality of life. Your veterinarian may recommend a combination of therapies, medications, and emergency protocols based on the severity of your cat’s asthma.

Types of Medications Used for Feline Asthma

Vets will usually use two types of medications to treat feline asthma.

·         Bronchodilators: This medication helps relax the airway muscles, so it’s easier for your cat to breathe during an asthmatic episode. They are usually prescribed for quick release of symptoms. It is administered using an inhaler.

·         Corticosteroids: Anti-inflammatory medications help reduce airway inflammation. They help prevent flare-ups. Common options are prednisone (pills) or fluticasone (inhaled).

About the Author: Fiona

Fiona is the current President and CEO of Pawer Lab. She takes care of the day-to-day operations and makes sure everything runs purrfectly. Her hobbies include chasing lasers, taking naps in the sun, and snacking on treats.