Veterinarian Insights: Does Your Cat Have Feline Asthma?

Just like humans, cats can get respiratory conditions and disorders. Among these is asthma, which is most commonly noted for causing breathing difficulties in those who have it. But is your cat wheezing due to a random irritant, or are they actually suffering from feline asthma?

Let's take a look at this chronic condition and its causes, as well as how to tell if your cat has asthma and what you can do about it. Only your pet's veterinarian can issue a proper diagnosis, but this information may be helpful in determining whether or not it's time to make an appointment.

What is feline asthma?

Feline asthma, also known as feline allergic bronchitis or "feline bronchial asthma," is a common respiratory condition in cats. It is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects a cat's lower airways, including the bronchi and bronchioles. According to Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, feline asthma is actually the most commonly diagnosed respiratory disorder in cats.

The inflammation causes these airways to become narrowed and inflamed, making it difficult for the cat to breathe. This is considered an allergic condition because it is often triggered by allergens in the environment and is similar to asthma in humans as it shares many of the same symptoms and characteristics.

Causes and triggers of asthma in cats

• Allergens: Common allergens that can trigger feline asthma include dust mites, pollen, mold, cigarette smoke, and certain cleaning products.
• Stress: Stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms in some cats.
• Obesity: Overweight cats are at a higher risk of developing asthma.
• Genetics: Some breeds, such as the Siamese and the Himalayan, are more prone to asthma.
• Environmental factors: Living in a polluted or smoggy area can increase the risk.

Signs and symptoms

Cases of feline asthma can vary from mild to severe. Your cat may experience any of the following symptoms:

• Wheezing
• Coughing or hacking (often confused with hacking up a hairball)
• Rapid or labored breathing
• Open mouth breathing or panting
• Weakness and lethargy
• Blue lips and gums
• Coughing up mucus
• Loss of appetite
• Cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin and/or mucous membranes)

Symptoms will be more extreme during an asthma attack — if you believe your cat may be suffering from an asthma attack, seek veterinary attention right away.

Diagnosing asthma in cats

So you suspect your beloved cat is suffering from asthma. What now?

The first step should be a call to your pet's veterinarian. They'll most likely want to schedule an appointment and do an examination for proper diagnosis. That said, there is no single test for feline asthma, and it can be tricky to diagnose. Depending on the severity of your pet's symptoms, their veterinarian will conduct different tests to better analyze the commonly associated signs of asthma in cats.

If your cat appears to be suffering from a milder case of asthma, your veterinarian may need to run a series of tests to rule out other causes. They may listen to your cat’s chest, take a blood test to check for an allergic response, or conduct a chest x-ray to look at your cat’s lungs. Your veterinarian may also want to take samples of mucus and fluid from deep within the airways, either by a procedure called a transtracheal wash or a bronchoalveolar lavage. They may also decide to perform a special fecal test to evaluate for a lung parasite for which symptoms can mimic feline asthma.

Is cat asthma treatable?

If your cat is diagnosed with feline asthma, there are options available to help your cat live a happy, healthy life. Feline asthma is a chronic condition but can be managed effectively with your veterinarian.

Treatment options include:

• Bronchodilators: This class of medications helps relax the airways and make breathing easier.
• Corticosteroids: These are anti-inflammatory drugs that can reduce airway inflammation.
• Anti-allergy medications: If allergens trigger asthma, allergy medications may be prescribed.
• Environmental management: Reducing exposure to allergens, such as using air purifiers or minimizing exposure to cigarette smoke, can help.
• Weight management: If obesity is a contributing factor, a weight loss plan may be recommended.

Feline asthma prevention

You can help prevent asthmatic symptoms in your cat by minimizing any irritants in their environment. In general, avoid smoking and spraying perfumes in the home, use a dustless, unscented cat litter, and utilize air filters at home.

Pet allergies can also exacerbate feline asthma symptoms. Once you've chosen the best cat insurance for your pet, you can have a veterinarian conduct an allergy test to help identify any allergens, like pollen, so you can eliminate triggers when possible. Stress is also a common trigger, so try and create a relaxed environment around the home.

Feline asthma is a lifelong condition, but with proper management and care, most cats can lead relatively normal lives. If you suspect your cat has asthma or is displaying any respiratory distress, consult with a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your cat's specific needs.

Take more proactive steps around the home for your pet's health! Learn which indoor plants are safe for cats.