Cat Asthma

Did you know that household environments can trigger allergies in cats? Research has shown that cigarette smoke, human dandruff, household dust, and even some cat litters can cause feline asthma and the associated attacks.

Feline asthma is described as a chronic inflammation of the small passageways of the lungs. These passageways thicken and collapse when a cat inhales, making it difficult for them to breath freely.

There are varying degrees of asthma in cats. At first glance, you may think that your cat is attempting to cough up a hairball, however, the body posture of a cat suffering an asthma attack is different. The cat’s body may be hunched over, with their neck stretched low to the ground in an effort to clear the airway. Coughing, wheezing or laboured breathing can be symptomatic of an asthma attack.

Asthma can be triggered in our cats by a number of various allergens in the air including tree pollens, cigarette smoke, dust, perfumes, aerosols, and even human dandruff. Overexertion can also trigger an attack.

Asthma-like symptoms in cats can also be associated with other diseases, including heartworm, parasites, obesity or even a heart condition, so being able to identify the symptoms is important.

Contact your local Greencross Vets. They will be able to determine if your cat suffers from asthma or another respiratory disorder. A series of diagnostics tests may be required to eliminate other conditions.

Once the condition has been determined, your veterinarian will discuss what treatment plan is best suited to your feline friend and the environment of which they live.