How to Care for a Cat with Asthma

eline asthma can present with symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and labored breathing. In mild cases, symptoms may only be an occasional short cough. Some cats may have no symptoms between episodes of acute airway obstruction. However, severely affected cats may experience persistent coughing and frequent episodes of life-threatening bronchoconstriction.

Feline asthma is primarily caused by airway obstruction, which can result from congenital narrowness, acquired obstructions like foreign bodies, or tracheitis. However, allergies are the most common cause. It is best to consult a veterinarian to identify the specific cause before initiating treatment.

For cats diagnosed with asthma, veterinarians typically prescribe inhaled bronchodilators. For example, albuterol sulfate can be administered via nebulization. If a cat is unwilling to undergo nebulization, injectable systemic bronchodilators like terbutaline may be used. Owners should regularly administer nebulized treatments or take their cat to the hospital for injections as prescribed.

Additionally, corticosteroids can be administered orally or via inhalation to effectively control asthma symptoms. Long-acting injectable corticosteroids can last for 2 – 8 weeks but may have significant side effects, including weight gain, diabetes, and weakened immunity. These should only be used as a last resort.

While some cats may recover spontaneously, others will have lifelong asthma. Owners should regularly administer nebulized treatments at home and minimize allergens in the environment. Use low – dust cat litter, hypoallergenic cat food, and groom your cat frequently to prevent hair – related respiratory issues.