Feline Asthma
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, carpet cleaners, insecticides, pollen or cigarette smoke.
Affected cats suffer episodes of extremely difficult breathing and many
have periods of severe coughing. Asthmatic attacks usually recur and are
difficult to impossible to predict. Many months may pass between attacks
or they may occur several times daily. Severe cases may require in-hospital
treatment. Laboratory tests and radiographs (x-rays) are often needed to
rule out other conditions with similar signs.
Treatment Information:
-
As with humans Feline Asthma is NOT a curable condition. Our
effort is to minimize the severity and frequency of the attacks.
-
If the attacks are mild and infrequent, treatment may not be necessary
at all.
-
Mild bronchial asthma is treated medically. If the cause cannot be identified
(which is usually the case) We will recommend using one or more of the
following:
-
cortisone (injections or tablets) to reduce inflammation of the air ways
-
bronchial dilators to increase the size of the air passages
-
occasionally, hospitalization may be necessary to provide oxygen therapy
until your cat recovers from the immediate crisis.
-
It is often difficult to identify the exact cause of your cat's asthma,
therefore, treatment may need to be repeated periodically throughout your
cat's life.
-
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 our office.
Back
to Cat Topics