Cat Asthma

What Is Cat Asthma?

Cat asthma is a recurring respiratory (breathing) condition that is characterized by inflammation (swelling) in the lungs and narrowing of the airways. Asthma is caused by contact with an allergen such as dust or pollen your cat inhaled while breathing. Asthma can be made worse by stress. Cats affected by asthma may show signs of coughing, difficulty breathing, and wheezing.  

Although these symptoms may come and go, depending on your cat’s contact their allergens, asthma will not clear up without long-term treatment. 

Symptoms of Cat Asthma

The most common signs include:  

• Coughing, which can look like gagging or vomiting  

• Difficulty breathing  

• Breathing that looks like it is coming from the belly instead of the chest  

• Noisy “wheezy” breathing 

Causes of Cat Asthma

Feline asthma is caused by an allergic reaction triggered when the cat inhales a allergen such as dust, cigarette smoke, pollens, dust mites, mildew, cat litter, and household chemicals. Even being exposed to candles, hair spray, and room fresheners can trigger a flare-up in sensitive cats.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Asthma in Cats

If you notice signs of asthma in your cat like difficulty breathing, you should visit the emergency vet. If your cat is coughing but still breathing normally, you can book a regular appointment. Once at the vet, cats with signs of asthma will usually require a basic blood panel, a heartworm profile, and chest radiographs.  

Some cats may also need more testing, which may include fecal tests for lung parasites as well as airway washes to look for the cause of the lung inflammation. In some cases, the diagnosis is very easy and straightforward, but other cats will require more extensive testing. Unfortunately, vets often are unable to figure out what started the process in the first place. 

Treatment for Asthma in Cats

Because the primary problem involved in asthma is the underlying inflammation, treatment is aimed at reducing this inflammation. It is generally not possible to eliminate the allergens your cat is inhaling. Even if your cat is not showing symptoms, they will need to continue the anti-inflammatory medication.  

Long term, the safest way to give this medication is using an inhaler, much as would be done for humans with asthma. Some cats are treated with oral or injectable anti-inflammatories instead of inhaled medication. The risks of side effects are higher with the oral treatments, however, so inhalers are generally preferred. 

Recovery and Management of Asthma in Cats

With proper care, the vast majority of cats with asthma will respond to treatment and experience only occasional flare-ups of symptoms. However, even if your cat’s symptoms seem to disappear, it is very important to continue with treatment because the underlying inflammation is still simmering and can cause long-term disease. When asthmatic cats are treated, they are likely to do very well.