While cats are famously known to have “nine” lives, they can face challenges in one of them. One of these problems is cat asthma. While the condition is completely manageable, it’s still a concerning issue that should be given care and attention.
What Is Cat Asthma?
Asthma in a cat is a respiratory condition caused by chronic irritation and inflammation of the airways. This will lead to respiratory problems and distress.
Normally, the cat takes in oxygen and expels carbon dioxide. The air makes its way through the nose or mouth, then proceeds to the trachea until it reaches the lungs through the bronchi and bronchioles.
In a cat asthma attack, the bronchi and bronchioles become inflamed. This results in the narrowing of the airways as well as an increase in mucus production, resulting in breathing difficulties.
What Are the Causes and Risk Factors of Cat Asthma?
The irritation and inflammation of the airways are generally caused by several factors. These include:
Environmental Factors
Allergens in the environment are some of the main causes of asthma in cats. These particles can irritate the lining of the airways, causing the respiratory condition.
Some of the common environmental causes of cat asthma include:
Pollen: Especially prevalent during spring and summer months.
Dust and Dust Mites: Found in carpets, furniture, and bedding.
Tobacco Smoke: The smoke from the cigarettes themselves is a common irritant.
Perfumes and Aerosols: Strong scents from sprays, cleaners, or air fresheners.
Cat Litter Dust: Non-clumping or scented litters often produce fine particles that irritate the lungs.
Cats who live in areas with poor air quality, pollution, and moldy environments will have an increased risk of asthma.
Infections
Respiratory infections, such as cat flu, can also cause asthma in cats. These pathogens can also inflame and irritate the airways. Similarly, this leads to the narrowing of the airways, making it hard for cats to breathe. These can also cause a cat asthma attack.
Genetics
Certain breeds, such as Himalayan and Siamese cats, have a higher risk of feline asthma. This is primarily because of their developmental features and increased risk of triggers.
They might have inherited a more sensitive immune system or structural differences in the airways, which make them more susceptible to inflammation.
Other Factors
Other factors include age, stress, and obesity. Although cat asthma can manifest at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in cats between the ages of 2 and 8. Additionally, stressed cats often have worse cases of asthma.
Obesity is also another risk factor for asthma in cats. Obese cats tend to put more strain on their respiratory systems, which can pave the way for this condition.
Common Cat Asthma Symptoms
Cats may show the signs subtly, but it’ll be more obvious as the disease progresses. Here are the common symptoms of cat asthma:
Coughing. A dry and persistent cough is usually the most common symptom of feline asthma. It's often mistaken for a hairball cough.
Wheezing. A high-pitched sound is heard when the cat has a problem with the airways. It comes from the sound the air makes when the cat breathes through swollen or constricted airways. Wheezing is usually present when the cat is exposed to irritants.
Changes in Breathing. Your cat's breathing may be faster than usual, with more pronounced movement in the chest and abdomen. They may also adopt a hunched posture and extend their neck with an open mouth to help with breathing.
Lethargy. A cat with asthma may appear unusually tired and less active. They'll prefer to lie down and rest more often than engage in physical activity.
Reduced Appetite and Weight Loss. In some cases, asthma may lead to a loss of appetite. Breathing difficulties can cause discomfort, making it less appealing for your cat to eat. This results in significant weight loss.
How Do I Know if My Cat Has Asthma?
Monitor your cat for any of the signs. If it goes away, then it’s probably just a slight irritation. If your cat has any of the symptoms in a much more severe degree, then it’s a possible sign of asthma.
How Is Cat Asthma Diagnosed?
Several tests will be needed to determine if your cat has asthma and what caused it.
Veterinary Examination
A physical examination is the first step. With your input, we'll check the usual symptoms and living conditions of your cat.
We use a stethoscope to assess your cat’s lungs initially. We use a stethoscope to assess your cat’s breathing. This serves as an initial assessment of the lungs.
Diagnostic Tests
If we think your cat has asthma, and to rule out other conditions, other diagnostic tests will be used.
Imaging Techniques. Tools such as X-rays and CT scans will be helpful in evaluating the cat's lungs and airways. This includes finding issues such as swelling in the airways.
Bronchoscopy. In more complex cases, a bronchoscopy may be performed. We do this by inserting a small tube with a tiny camera to inspect your cat’s airways. This will be done under anesthesia.
Tracheal or Bronchoalveolar Lavage. This process involves obtaining a sample from your cat's airways by flushing a sterile solution and then collecting the fluid for microscoping examination. If there's a significant number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, we can confirm asthma.
Main Options for Cat Asthma Treatment
Once we have successfully diagnosed asthma in a cat, we’ll proceed to plan the steps to manage this condition. While you can’t fully cure feline asthma, it can be managed effectively.
Medication mostly aims to help manage cat asthma, with the goal of reducing airway inflammation and easing breathing.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs that help reduce airway swelling, inflammation, and mucus production. They can be administered in various forms: oral, injectable, and inhaled.
Although there are three main options, inhaled forms are typically the one most vets recommend because of their minimal side effects relative to the others. Devices like a metered-dose inhaler will provide the accurate amounts your cat needs.
Bronchodilators
These medications are often used for cat asthma attacks since they can be easily administered and work effectively. They work by relaxing and opening up the muscles in the airways, helping a cat breathe.
Inhalation Therapy and Devices
Inhalation devices are the most convenient way to administer cat asthma medications. Plus, they're safe and easy to use. Cats may need some time to adjust to the inhaler, but they can benefit from it with patience.
Check out popular devices, such as the AeroKat Inhaler, which efficiently delivers medication to the lungs.
Home Remedies for Cat Asthma
What you do at home is important for reducing your cat's exposure to asthma and its triggers. With effective home care, you can keep the causes at bay and bring the coughs away.
Switch to a Low-Dust Cat Litter
Start with your cat's litter box because it's a hotspot for irritants that could trigger asthma. Use natural options that utilize wood and paper, or try out low-dust and unscented options.
Use Air Purifiers
Air purifiers are essential for improving the air quality at home. These devices can effectively reduce airborne allergens and make the air they breathe much cleaner. The HEPA filter in the air purifier captures these irritants and makes sure the air is crisp and clean.
Clean Your Home
Cleaning your home helps a lot in avoiding asthma and helping your cat recover. Wash your cat's bedding and vacuum furniture, carpets, and rugs around the house.
How Can I Treat My Cat’s Asthma at Home?
Home cleaning and administering medications at home can help you manage your cat's asthma. Corticosteroid inhalers should be applied every 12 hours or so, depending on the condition. Bronchodilator inhalers should be used as needed, such as in cases of a cat asthma attack.
What if Cat Asthma Is Left Untreated?
If asthma in cats is left untreated, the inflammation of the airways can worsen over time, making it more difficult to breathe. As a result, the lungs can get permanent damage, and your cat’s quality of life will be reduced. In severe cases, untreated cat asthma can become life-threatening.
“Helping our cats breathe allows them to experience the peaceful and happy life they deserve.”
- Dr. Nenad Misura
Final Thoughts
While cat asthma is concerning, the condition can be managed with the right care. All your cat needs is proper care, consistent medication, and your complete dedication. With all of these and more, your cat can live happily and breathe freely.
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