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?

Cat asthma is a chronic respiratory condition caused by an inflammation of the lung’s airways. This inflammation leads to a narrowing and obstruction of the airways, causing breathing problems in cats.

In cat asthma, the respiratory normally takes in oxygen and expels carbon dioxide. The air travels through the nose or mouth, then goes down to the trachea, which then reaches the lungs through smaller passages called bronchi and bronchioles. 

When asthma strikes, the bronchi and bronchioles become inflamed. This inflammation triggers a series of reactions. The most well-known result is the increased difficulty in breathing.

Causes and Risk Factors of Cat Asthma

While there isn’t a single definite cause of asthma in cats, there are several factors that can lead to the condition. Here are the common causes and risk factors of cat asthma:

Environment

The most common cause of asthma in cats is exposure to environmental allergens. These particles irritate the linings of the cat’s respiratory system, which will cause irritation and inflammation.

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 cigarettes 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.

Additionally, a cat’s environment plays a significant role in asthma development. Cats exposed to poor air quality, such as pollution or secondhand smoke, are at a higher risk. Living in damp or moldy environments can also aggravate respiratory issues.

Genetics

Certain breeds, such as Siamese breeds, are perceived to be more likely to develop asthma, suggesting a hereditary component. Cats from these breeds may have an inherently more sensitive immune system or structural differences in their airways that make them prone to inflammation. 

Age

Although cat asthma can manifest at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in cats between young and old cats. This demographic often shows the first signs of the condition, such as occasional coughing or wheezing.

Symptoms of Cat Asthma

Cats may show signs of asthma subtly, especially since they are experts at hiding their own feelings. However, any subtle signs should be taken into consideration. Here are some signs you can look out for.

Coughing

Coughing is one of the most common symptoms of feline asthma. Unlike the occasional gag or hack associated with hairballs, an asthma-related cough is typically dry and persistent. It may sound tough and may occur multiple times. Generally, frequent cat coughing is a concern that should be addressed.

Wheezing

Wheezing is a high-pitched sound that happens when a cat is breathing with a problem in its airways. The narrowing of the airways causes this symptom due to inflammation or mucus buildup. 

Wheezing can occur during mild asthma episodes or more severe flare-ups, often becoming more pronounced during physical activity or exposure to irritants.

Changes in Breathing

Asthma can make it difficult for a cat to breathe comfortably. During an episode, you may notice your cat breathing faster than usual, with pronounced movement in the chest and abdomen as it works harder to inhale and exhale. 

Severe cases may involve open-mouth breathing, which is a significant red flag because cats rarely breathe through their mouths unless in distress. Cats typically avoid breathing through their mouths, so when this occurs, it indicates that your pet is struggling significantly to get enough oxygen. 

Cats experiencing asthma may adopt a hunched posture with their neck extended forward. This position is an instinctive attempt to open up the airways and make breathing easier. 

Lethargy

A cat with asthma may become less active or appear unusually tired. Because of the discomfort of respiratory distress, physical activity might become lower and lower. As a result, your cat can be seen preferring to just lie down instead of exploring.

Reduced Appetite

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. Additionally, your cat will lose a significant portion of its weight when it doesn’t eat normally for an extended period of time. 

Diagnosing Cat Asthma

Diagnosing your cat’s asthma will need a series of tests. These tests can help us determine the issue your cat is facing, which will indeed take its time. Here are some of the steps we take to diagnose cat asthma:

Veterinary Examination

Firstly, we’ll start with a physical examination, just like with any other condition. This will be done with your guidance, as we’ll need to ask you questions about the symptoms your cat is experiencing. 

When dealing with asthma in cats, we’ll mostly examine and listen to your cat’s lungs. Abnormal conditions will be the clues we’ll look for. By observing your cat’s breathing patterns, posture, and behavior, we can get clues on your cat’s condition.

Diagnostic Tests

To confirm asthma and rule out other conditions, several diagnostic tests will be used:

• X-rays

X-rays of the chest are often used to identify changes in the lungs. Through observations on the lung structure, we can have more evidence to support our diagnosis. X-rays can also help rule out conditions like pneumonia, heart disease, or tumors.

• 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 to directly visualize any inflammation or obstruction.

• Tracheal or Bronchoalveolar Lavage 

This test will use a sample collected from your cat’s airways to analyze for the presence of inflammatory cells, bacteria, or other abnormalities. It is typically done under sedation or anesthesia and is particularly useful in diagnosing asthma or infections.

Treatment for Cat Asthma

Once we have successfully diagnosed asthma in your cat, we’ll proceed to plan the steps to manage this condition. Because it has no definitive cure, we’ll focus on making the cat asthma treatments improve your cat’s condition and quality of life.

Medications for Cat Asthma

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 and inflammation. These are super useful for regular relief. They can be administered in various forms: oral, injectable, and inhaled. 

Because of the major side effects of oral and injectable forms, they are generally not the option we opt for. Instead, inhaled corticosteroids are much safer, which will help provide the relief your cat deserves.

This form is the preferred option for long-term management. They help deliver the medication directly to the lungs, minimizing systemic side effects. Devices like a metered-dose inhaler will provide the accurate amounts your cat needs for its asthma.

Bronchodilators

Bronchodilators relax the airway muscles, making it easier for the cat to breathe during an asthma attack. These are typically used as rescue medications rather than for daily management. Inhaled bronchodilators are commonly prescribed and work quickly to relieve symptoms.

Inhalation Therapy and Devices

Inhalation therapy is often the most effective and safest long-term solution for managing cat asthma. Devices like the AeroKat Inhaler are designed specifically for cats, allowing medication to be delivered efficiently to the lungs.  Cats may require some time to adjust to using an inhaler, but most adapt well with patience and positive reinforcement.

Environmental Management

Reducing your cat’s exposure to asthma triggers is crucial for reducing the frequency and risk of asthma attacks. It’s all about creating a safe and clean space for your cat. Here are some tips you can follow:

1. Switch to a Low Dust Cat Litter

Litters that produce fine dust or contain certain scents can irritate your cat’s respiratory system during every litter box visit. To minimize this, choose a litter labeled as low-dust and unscented. Natural options, such as those made from wood, paper, or corn, can be gentler on sensitive lungs.

2. Use Air Purifiers

Using air purifiers is a great way to improve air quality for you and your cat. This step helps create a better home for your cat, helping manage its asthma. Place these air filters in areas where your cat usually stays in, just like in its playing, sleeping, and eating areas.

3. Clean Your Home

Aside from using air purifiers, regular home maintenance is an important step. Make sure to clean your cat’s belongings, such as its bedding, pillow, and blankets. Additionally, cleaning other areas of your home will help improve your cat’s life.

Conclusion

While cat asthma is super concerning, the condition can be managed with the right care. With a combination of medications and inhalation therapy, you can help your cat live a happy and active lifestyle.