At Northgate Veterinary Clinic in Seattle, our vets often see cats suffering from asthma often due to inhaled allergens. Below we list some common symptoms of asthma in cats, and what you should do if your cat has an asthma attack.
Can Cats Have Asthma?
Yes! And much like people with asthma, coughing and wheezing are often the first signs of an asthma attack.
When a cat is having an asthma attack as well as coughing and wheezing they will often stand hunched close to the ground with their neck extended forward as if trying to expel a hairball. In more severe cases you will notice that your cat's sides are going in and out as they work hard to breathe and that they are drooling or coughing up mucus.
Finding themselves unable to breathe normally is bound to be both frightening and stressful for your cat. If you notice that your cat is having difficulties breathing, contact your vet immediately for assistance or call your nearest animal emergency hospital!
Signs of asthma in cats include:
- Hunched body with neck extended
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent coughing or gagging
- Open mouth breathing
- Gurgling sounds from your pet's throat
- Wheezing
- Rapid breathing
- Frothy mucus while coughing
- Overall weakness
- Blue lips and gums
- Increased swallowing
Rapid breathing during sleep can be another sign that your cat is having an asthma attack. While at rest your cat will normally take between 24 - 30 breaths per minute. If your cat is taking more than 40 breaths per minute asthma may be the cause, contact your vet immediately for assistance.
One important thing to note is that snoring or breathing loudly when resting doesn't necessarily mean that your cat has asthma. Nonetheless, if you're worried about your cat's breathing it is always best to contact your vet for advice.
Causes of Asthma in Cats
It is not unusual for cats to cause allergic asthma in people, but what causes asthma in cats? Asthma in cats is frequently brought on by increased stress levels or the inhalation of an allergen. Some of the most common allergens to trigger asthma attacks in cats include:
- Grass
- Dust mites
- Mould
- Pollen
- Cigarette smoke
- Household cleaning products
- Some foods
- Cat litter dust
Aside from inhaled allergens, conditions such as pneumonia, obesity, parasites, a pre-existing heart condition, or a genetic predisposition could play a role in the severity of your cat's asthma.
Cat Asthma Treatment
If your cat appears to be experiencing asthma you may be wondering what you can give your cat to help, but it's important to have your cat's breathing difficulties diagnosed before administering any treatment. If your cat is struggling to breathe, contact your vet right away, or visit your nearest animal emergency hospital for urgent care.
If your kitty is diagnosed with asthma, your vet may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in your cat's lungs, and possibly a bronchodilator to help dilate their airways and make breathing easier. These medications can be prescribed in the form of an injectable, oral medication or as an inhaler fitted with a mask designed for use with cats.
Life Expectancy for Cats with Asthma
Asthma is generally an incurable and often progressive condition in cats, which means that your cat with asthma is very likely to experience periodic attacks throughout their lifetime. These asthma attacks can range in intensity from very mild to severe or life-threatening.
That said, by keeping a watchful eye on your cat's respiratory effort, looking out for the symptoms listed above, and intervening with the prescribed medication when needed, you can help your asthmatic cat to live a long happy life.
Diet & Your Cat's Asthma
If you believe that a change of diet could help to manage your cat's asthma symptoms, consult your vet. Helping your cat to maintain a healthy weight, while ensuring that all of their nutritional needs are met, is a terrific way to help your cat stay healthy.
But what should you feed your cat with asthma? Speak to your vet to learn which food is best for your cat, based on your kitty's medical history and overall health.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.