How Can You Tell If Your Cat Has Asthma?

If your cat has asthma, it’s a condition strikingly similar to human asthma. This respiratory ailment is caused by inflammation in the small airways leading to the lungs, often triggered by allergens. Also known as feline bronchial disease, asthma results in bronchial spasms that tighten the airways and cause surrounding tissues to swell, leading to distressed breathing.

At the first sign of asthma-related symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Early intervention is key to managing this condition effectively.

Symptoms of Asthma in Cats

Detecting the early signs of asthma can be challenging. You might notice faint wheezing, especially after physical activity. Your cat could seem unusually tired, cough or wheeze, breathe with an open mouth, or exhibit labored breathing before a more severe attack occurs.

A full-blown asthma attack may initially resemble your cat coughing up a hairball or choking on food. However, the posture during an asthma attack is distinctive: your cat hunches low to the ground with his or her neck and head extended outward and downward in an effort to clear its airways. Gagging, coughing, sneezing, and the occasional production of foamy mucus may also occur.

These attacks may not happen frequently, making it easy to dismiss them as hairball-related. However, asthma attacks can be life-threatening, and immediate veterinary attention is necessary for a cat in severe distress.

What Are The Common Asthma Triggers

Several allergens can provoke an asthma attack in cats. These include the following;

• Smoke

• Mold or mildew

• Household chemicals

• Dust

• Pollen

• Certain types of cat litter (consider switching to alternatives like Feline Pine)

• High humidity or moist air

Diagnosing Feline Asthma

To confirm an asthma diagnosis, your veterinarian may perform one or more of the following tests:

Blood Tests:

These blood tests are quick and straightforward. They can detect infections that often accompany asthma and identify immune system cells like macrophages, neutrophils, and mast cells. Blood tests also help rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Chest X-rays:

X-rays provide a clear view of your cat’s lungs and airways. These types of X-rays are typically done in two positions: lateral (with the cat lying on its side) and dorsal (with the cat lying on its back). Some cats may require light sedation to remain still during the procedure, but the process is safe and painless.

Treatment Options for Asthma

Managing feline asthma often involves a combination of medications tailored to your cat’s needs.

Common treatments include the following:

Daily Steroids:

Prednisone, a widely used steroid, is often prescribed in pill form to be administered two to three times daily. Alternatively, steroids can be given via transdermal gel or injection. Each method has its drawbacks, including potential side effects from long-term systemic use.

Inhaled Steroids:

A more recent and targeted option involves using a metered-dose inhaler, such as Flovent, administered through a special mask like the Aerokat Feline Aerosol Chamber. This method delivers medication directly to the lungs, reducing systemic side effects. Most cats tolerate the inhaler well, and the process takes only seconds.

Bronchodilators:

Albuterol is the most commonly prescribed bronchodilator for asthmatic cats. It can also be administered via a feline aerosol chamber and is used as needed during asthma flare-ups. However, excessive use of albuterol can lead to bronchial spasms, so it should be reserved for emergencies. Frequent or severe attacks warrant a reevaluation by your veterinarian.

Antibiotics:

If your cat has a secondary bacterial infection, your vet may prescribe antibiotics.

Prognosis and Long-Term Management

Feline asthma is a chronic condition that tends to progress over time. While it cannot be cured, with proper care and treatment, cats with asthma can live comfortable and happy lives for many years.

The best way to manage your cat’s asthma over time involves the following:

• Monitoring your cat’s breathing and overall health

• Recognizing and addressing symptoms early

• Administering prescribed medications consistently

• Minimizing exposure to known triggers

Lifestyle Changes:

In addition to medication, there are some lifestyle changes you can make to help manage your cat's asthma:

Reduce stress:

Stress can trigger asthma attacks in cats. Create a calm and stress-free environment for your cat.  

Avoid smoke:

Smoke from cigarettes, cigars, and even candles can irritate your cat's airways.  

Keep your cat's environment clean:

Dust and other allergens can trigger asthma attacks. Regularly clean your cat's litter box and bedding.  

Maintain a healthy weight:

Overweight cats are more likely to experience breathing problems.

As always, it is important to keep your veterinarian up-to-date on any changes in your cat's condition and scheduling regular check-ups every six to twelve months. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help your asthmatic cat thrive despite their condition.