Understanding Feline Asthma: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Feline asthma is a respiratory condition that affects cats of all ages, breeds, and genders. This immune-mediated disease can cause permanent damage to a cat’s lungs and heart if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for feline asthma.
Symptoms of Feline Asthma:
Feline asthma can cause a range of symptoms in cats. The most common symptom is infrequent, hairball-like coughing. However, sudden onsets of respiratory distress, known as acute dyspnea, can also occur. Cats with feline asthma may exhibit slow and deliberate breathing, or fast and labored breathing. Other symptoms may include vomiting, sneezing, or wheezing like a human allergy sufferer.
Diagnosis of Feline Asthma:
It’s important to have your cat checked by a veterinarian if you suspect feline asthma. Because asthma can mimic other feline diseases such as bronchitis, heart disease, and pneumonia, a veterinary diagnosis assisted by an x-ray is essential. Diagnosis is usually confirmed with an x-ray, and possibly a slide cytology of the airway.
Treatment of Feline Asthma:
Treatment of feline asthma usually includes short or long-term use of bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and oxygen therapy. Bronchodilators, such as terbutaline or aminophyline, help to open the airways and make breathing easier. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are used to reduce inflammation in the airways. Oxygen therapy may be needed in severe cases.
Long-term treatment of asthma usually includes short or long-term use of corticosteroids and bronchodilators. While severe “episodes” of dyspnea can occur, the long-term prognosis for this disease is generally excellent. If diagnosed early, any structural changes to the lungs and airway are usually reversible, and damage can be minimized.
Alternative treatments for feline asthma include injectable steroids for cats that can’t be pilled, Cyproheptadine, which was originally used as an appetite stimulant, Cyclosporin A for severe cases, and Anti-Interleukin-5 Antibody, which is still experimental.
Prevention of Feline Asthma:
While feline asthma is not preventable, removing allergens from the environment, such as using an air purifier, dust-free and unscented litter, and avoiding odor-controlling sprays, can help to relieve symptoms.
Feline asthma is a serious respiratory condition that can lead to permanent lung and heart damage if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing this immune-mediated disease. If you suspect that your cat may have feline asthma, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian as soon as possible. With proper treatment and management, cats with feline asthma can live happy, healthy lives.
