BRONCHIAL ASTHMA IN CATS

General Information

Asthma is a condition caused by constriction of the air passages in the lungs. The exact cause is not known, but asthma probably is a type of allergic reaction. Some cases are the result of inhaling dust from cat-box litter.

This can be a life threatening emergency if severe respiratory distress is noted.

Affected cats suffer episodes of extremely difficult breathing and many have periods of severe coughing. Asthma attacks usually recur and are difficult to predict. Many months may pass between attacks or they may occur several times daily.

Common breeds affected are the Siamese and Himalayan.

Clinical Signs

Coughing, exercise intolerance, and difficulty in breathing

Differential Rule Outs

These include infection, heartworm disease, cardiac disease, lung worms and other pulmonary parasites, cancer, and pleural diseases.

Diagnosis

A thorough exam by your veterinarian should include:

Listening to the chest with a stethoscope

X-ray

Tracheal washes may be needed as well as cultures

Heartworm testing

Important Points in Treatment

1. Mild bronchial asthma is treated medically at home. If the attacks are very mild and infrequent, it may not be treated at all. Severe cases may require in-hospital treatment.

2. If an attack occurs, try to relate it to your pet's contact with household materials. If you detect any pattern to the attacks, notify the doctor.

3. Medications commonly administered include: Bronchial dilators, steroids such as prednisolone, Cyproheptadine, and antibiotics. Pediatric inhalers have been also used in the treatment of asthma.

4. Testing for environmental allergies and ruling out food allergies may be considered.