Asthma in Cats: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment

Asthma in cats, also known as feline asthma, is a disease of the lower airways that causes chronic inflammation of the airways. It is often associated with, and sometimes even used interchangeably with, chronic bronchitis in cats.

According to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, feline asthma affects between 1 and 5% of cats. When a cat experiences an asthma attack, the small passageways of the cat’s lungs thicken and constrict, which makes it difficult to breathe and causes respiratory distress. This often results in coughing, wheezing, and the accumulation of mucus in the airways.

What Cats Are Predisposed to Asthma?

On average, cats generally develop asthma between 2 to 8 years of age. Siamese and Himalayan cats tend to get asthma more frequently than other breeds. Overweight cats are at a greater risk of developing chronic respiratory diseases. So if your cat is overweight you should work on techniques for reducing its weight as it can cause many other health problems also.

What Causes Feline Asthma?

It is caused by a substance that triggers inflammation in the airways. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine says, “Most clinicians and researchers agree that feline asthma is caused by an allergic reaction to inhaled allergens, particles that stimulate a cat’s immune system.”

Some cats are sensitive to certain stimuli, and being exposed to those agents can cause an inflammatory response that triggers irritation and reactive constriction of the airways. This can result in inflammation, airways decreasing, and the accumulation of mucus within airway passages, which can make it difficult to breathe.

In most cases, a single underlying cause cannot be identified. Different factors that can trigger inflammation and contribute to the severity of asthma include:

• Cigarette smoke
• Perfume
• Hairspray
• Dust from cat litter
• Carpet cleaners
• Pollens
• Air fresheners
• Mold or mildew
• Scented laundry detergent
• Certain foods
• Extreme stress

Symptoms of Asthma in Cats

Cats with asthma may show a variety of different signs, including:

• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid breathing
• Wheezing
• Chronic coughing (often in a squatting or hunched position with the neck extended forward)
• Gagging
• Open-mouthed breathing
• Weakness
• Blue lips and gums due to lack of oxygen

Diagnosing Asthma in Cats

Unfortunately, there isn’t a single test that can diagnose asthma in cats. Because there are other conditions with similar symptoms, it’s essential to rule out other diseases that cause respiratory symptoms when diagnosing asthma in cats. These diseases include heartworm disease, respiratory parasites, heart failure, pneumonia, and cancer.

If your veterinarian suspects your cat has asthma, he or she will look at your cat’s medical history and may perform a variety of different diagnostic tests to rule out other health issues:

• Blood tests
• Heartworm test
• Chest X-ray
• Bronchoscopy
• Bronchoalveolar lavage

Treating Feline Asthma

Although there is no cure for asthma, medications can help manage the symptoms. There are a variety of different steps that your veterinarian may suggest when treating asthma in your cat.

Some other treatments include:

• Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists
• Inhaler Training
• Stress Reduction
• Herbal and Supplement Options
• Nebulized Medications

Asthma in cats tends to get progressively worse over time with occasional flare-ups that can vary in intensity. Because asthma can be life-threatening in some cases, all coughing cats should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Their immune system should be very strong and for that Lots of Love Pet Products has created many pet supplements for cats’ stronger immune systems.

Careful monitoring, watching for signs of asthma, and treating with medication when necessary can help asthmatic cats live comfortably.

You can buy supplements for your pet to increase their immunity from our Amazon Store.