Although most people don’t think about asthma when it comes to their pet’s health, between 1% – 5% of cats suffer recurring breathing difficulties caused by asthma. Without proper treatment, it can develop into a serious condition. Sea Oats Animal Hospital in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, wants you to be aware of the causes and symptoms of asthma in cats, so you’ll be ready to seek appropriate care if your pet begins to show signs of it.
What Is Feline Asthma?
Asthma in cats is a respiratory disorder that causes inflammation and swelling in the lungs and narrowing of the breathing passages. It is caused by an allergic reaction to a foreign particle, or allergen, being introduced into the lungs. Common allergens include dust mites, grass, pollen, dust, smoke, dust, cleaning chemicals, and mold. Some types of food can also trigger feline asthma. When an allergen your cat is sensitive to is breathed into the lungs, their body reacts by producing antibodies to defend against the intruder, causing inflammation of the lung tissues, production of mucus, and swelling and constriction of the airways. On average, cats are first diagnosed with feline asthma between four and five years of age. There is no permanent cure for asthma and cats that suffer from it will likely have periodic episodes that can range from very mild to severe for the rest of their lives. A flare-up can often be induced or aggravated by stress. Feline asthma can be successfully managed with ongoing treatment.
What Are The Symptoms Of Asthma In Cats?
The most common general symptoms of asthma are difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and dry heaving with the body hunched and close to the ground. Other symptoms include:
- Rapid breathing
- Breathing through the mouth
- Blue gums and lips
- Coughing up frothy mucus
- Gagging
- Constant swallowing
- Weakness
Other medical conditions can also cause these symptoms, so it’s very important to have your cat tested and positively diagnosed with feline asthma so they can receive the proper treatment.
Feline Asthma Treatment
Once your cat has been diagnosed with asthma, your vet will most likely prescribe corticosteroid medication to reduce the inflammation and swelling in the lungs and possibly a broncho inhaler. With medication and care, your cat’s asthma can be successfully managed and they can live a normal and happy life.
Contact the Sea Oats Animal Hospital in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, for more information or to schedule an appointment.
