Treatment FAQ

what is the treatment for a cat that has asthma

by Hilario Auer Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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To treat feline asthma, veterinarians will usually prescribe corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in the lungs, with or without bronchodilators to dilate the airways. Both of these types of drugs come in oral, inhaled, and injectable forms.

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What to do if your cat has asthma?

Method 4 Method 4 of 4: Managing Your Home

  1. Pay attention to what triggers an asthma attack. Cats develop asthma when they inhale something from the environment that irritates their airways.
  2. Use dust-free litter. If you know what allergens trigger your cat’s asthma, you can take steps to reduce your cat’s exposure to those allergens.
  3. Replace your home’s air filters. ...
  4. Vacuum regularly. ...

More items...

What is the best cat asthma remedy?

To help reduce the risk of a flare-up, there are a few precautions you can take, including:

  • Using a low dust, fragrance-free cat litter
  • Not using perfumes or heavily scented products around your cat
  • Changing your air filters on a regular basis
  • Not using aerosols, sprays, or harsh chemicals around your cat
  • Keeping your home clean to avoid dust build-up
  • Not smoking around your cat

Can cats get over asthma?

Most cats with asthma do amazingly well over time. It will just take some effort to get them diagnosed, stabilized and into a routine. Some cats will have seasonal flares—for example, when there is a lot of pollen in the air or when the house is closed up in the fall; but once we learn to anticipate these, it is possible to act accordingly to ...

How to give a nebulizer treatment to an asthmatic cat?

This would include:

  • Managing any obesity (as this can worsen breathing difficulties)
  • Identifying any potential irritants or allergens in the house, for example: pollens, use of perfumes or sprays, use of dusty cat litter, smoking in the house
  • In some cats the disease may be seasonal or may occur only when the cat is in certain rooms. ...

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What can you do for a cat with asthma?

There are two main types of treatment to manage asthma in cats – anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids to reduce the inflammation which leads to the symptoms, and bronchodilator medication which helps to widen a feline's air passage when needed.

How long do cats live if they have asthma?

What Is The Life Expectancy Of Cats With Asthma? Unfortunately, there is no 'cure' for asthma; it is a lifelong condition. However, cats living with asthma can lead normal and active lives, provided they get proper treatment and their asthma is well managed.

Does feline asthma need to be treated?

Treatment Approaches Like human asthma, chronic feline asthma is incurable but generally manageable. Treatment, according to Dr. Goldstein, depends on the severity of the condition.

What medication do they give cats for asthma?

Common oral corticosteroids prescribed for cat asthma include prednisone, prednisolone, and methylprednisolone. Prednisolone has higher bioavailability in cats and is generally preferred over prednisone2. Methylprednisolone (Depo-Medrol) is also a common injectable form of corticosteroid used to treat cat asthma3.

Does asthma shorten a cats life?

Fortunately, most asthmatic cats respond well to medication, but in severe cases/cases that don't respond to treatment, asthma can shorten life expectancy. Asthma in cats tends to develop at a young age (around or before 4-5 years old), and is more common in Siamese and Oriental breeds.

How can I help my cat breathe better?

Antibiotics may be required to treat your cat's condition so that they can breathe easier. Humidifiers and steam can help loosen mucus and make nasal breathing easier as your cat recovers.

Can inhalers help cats?

"An inhaler can be a lifesaver for cats suffering from asthma." For cats with frequent and persistent symptoms, treatment involves administering corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation, and a bronchodilator that help relax the muscles in the lungs allowing the airways to open.

How much does a cat inhaler cost?

Albuterol inhalers for cats are available online or at a pharmacy. Depending on the country, inhaled bronchodilators may cost between $5 - $30 per inhaler and typically last several months when used as indicated.

How long does it take for prednisone to work for asthma in cats?

RESPONSE TO THERAPY AS A DIAGNOSTIC TEST Response to an injectable corticosteroid i (such as dexamethasone) generally yields a positive response within 30 minutes.

Does Benadryl help cat asthma?

“Benadryl treats a symptom; it doesn't necessarily take away an underlying problem.” If your cat is having a severe allergic reaction—with problems such as trouble breathing—it's best to contact your vet to discuss the issue instead of just giving Benadryl to see if the symptom disappears.

What does asthma in cats look like?

Body hunched close to the ground with neck extended. Open-mouth breathing. Gurgling sounds from throat. Persistent coughing or gagging.

Allergens Most Likely to Trigger Asthma Attacks in Cats

Again, these are many of the same allergens responsible for human asthma attacks: 1. Smoke 2. Mildew or Mold 3. Household Chemicals 4. Dust 5. Poll...

Recognizing An Asthma Attack in Your Cat

Early symptoms may be difficult to detect. You may hear a faint wheezing, which is more audible after vigorous exercise. Your cat may seem to tire...

Medications For Asthmatic Cats

Hopefully, your cat was diagnosed in the early stages of asthma, and not after a panicky trip to the emergency vet clinic in a full-blown asthmatic...

How to diagnose asthma in cats?

Your veterinarian will use several diagnostic tests to diagnose asthma in your cat. The most common diagnostic tools are: 1 Blood Tests: Blood tests will help your veterinarian rule out other diseases and will show if there is inflammation somewhere in your cat's body. 2 Chest X-ray: Also called a thoracic radiograph, this diagnostic will help your veterinarian visualize any abnormalities within the lungs, such as areas of chronic inflammation or unusual fluid accumulation. Sometimes cats with asthma will have bright branching patterns seen in their chest radiographs. This is indicative of an accumulation of inflammatory cells within the airways. Lung over-inflation is also sometimes seen in feline asthma cases. 3 Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL): This can be an extremely useful procedure. It is performed by inserting an endotracheal tube into the cat's trachea under general anesthesia. This allows your veterinarian to directly take a sample of the fluids present within your cat's airways. Aside from asthma, the BAL may diagnose other conditions of the lungs. The downside of BAL is that it requires general anesthesia, which is not recommended for a cat with severe respiratory distress or otherwise extremely ill.

How to tell if my cat has asthma?

Early symptoms may be difficult to detect. You may hear faint wheezing, which is more audible after vigorous exercise. Your cat may seem to tire easily. A full-blown asthma attack may at first resemble a cat trying to cough up a hairball or possibly choking on food.

What is the condition that causes a cat to breathe?

Much like human asthma, feline asthma is an allergen-driven respiratory condition that causes distressed breathing. Some cats' immune systems over-react to an inhaled allergen. The resulting immune reaction causes an excess production of substances in the bloodstream that cause intense inflammation within the airways.

Why does my cat cough?

Asthma can cause your cat to cough and then it will appear to be fine but it is a slowly progressing condition with no cure. A coughing cat should be examined by a veterinarian in order to diagnose the issue and ensure appropriate management of the condition.

How to keep cats from pollen?

Consider a room purifier in the room your cat most frequently occupies. A HEPA purifier will also help during the pollen season. Household chemicals: Try to keep their use to a minimum. Use environmentally friendly products for your cats' benefit, your own health, and your home environment.

What is chest xray for cats?

Chest X-ray: Also called a thoracic radiograph, this diagnostic will help your veterinarian visualize any abnormalities within the lungs, such as areas of chronic inflammation or unusual fluid accumulation. Sometimes cats with asthma will have bright branching patterns seen in their chest radiographs.

How to perform a BAL on a cat?

It is performed by inserting an endotracheal tube into the cat's trachea under general anesthesia. This allows your veterinarian to directly take a sample of the fluids present within your cat's airways. Aside from asthma, the BAL may diagnose other conditions of the lungs.

What is asthma in cats?

Download the Full Guide to Cat Asthma. Cat asthma is a respiratory condition in cats that is caused by inflammation in the airways. When exposed to a trigger or stress, an asthmatic cat has an immune response that constricts the airways. Coupled with swelling from inflammation, this response often leads to an asthma attack, ...

How long does it take for salbutamol to work on cats?

It is often referred to by the brand names ProAir or Ventolin. These medications are fast-acting and can help a cat suffering an asthma attack within 5-10 minutes of receiving the dose.

Why are bronchodilators used?

They are commonly referred to as rescue medications because they are usually administered in the event of an asthma attack . These medications are often used in emergency situations rather than ongoing disease management. They have rapid action on the airways but their effects are generally short-lived and do not target the underlying inflammation.

What is the purpose of an aerosol chamber for cats?

When using inhaled medications, an aerosol chamber with a special mask that has been designed specifically for cats (such as the AEROKAT chamber) is required to help the cat breathe in the entire dose of medicine . Using the chamber and mask is easy and well accepted by cats, which is often surprising to pet parents.

Can corticosteroids be used in an emergency?

In an emergency, your vet may use higher dose injectable or oral steroids to get an asthma attack under control.

Can a cat swallow a bronchodilator?

Systemic bronchodilators are available in oral or injectable form. Oral bronchodilators are difficult to administer to a cat in distress, as they may not be able to swallow a pill and must first be metabolized by the body before they take effect7. In these instances, an alternative form of bronchodilator is needed.

Can cats take antihistamines?

In some instances, antihistamines may be prescribed if the cat has significant allergies causing asthma attacks. Limited evidence is available to support antihistamines as a standalone treatment for cat asthma10.

What is the best treatment for asthma in cats?

Once your vet has made the diagnosis, they will discuss the various treatment options with you. The main feline asthma treatment options are corticosteroids (‘steroids’), which reduce inflammation, and bronchodilators, which open the airways. Decide how to give your cat steroids.

How to treat asthma in cats?

When you notice signs of asthma (coughing, wheezing, open-mouthed breathing), take your cat to your vet. They will perform various diagnostic tests, such as chest x-rays, to diagnose the asthma. Once your vet has made the diagnosis, they will discuss the various treatment options with you.

What is the best medicine for asthma?

The inhaled bronchodilator, called albuterol, is very effective for emergency asthma flare-ups. Terbutaline, which is another bronchodilator, can be injected. Terbutaline can also be given orally as a syrup, but can make a cat act a little spacey. An inhaled bronchodilator is given in the same way as an inhaled steroid.

What to give a cat for asthma?

Your vet may recommend treatments such as an oral or inhaled steroid, or a bronchodilator. In addition to giving your cat medication, try to keep your house free from asthma triggers like perfume, hairspray, and cigarette smoke, which can make breathing more difficult.

What are the side effects of steroids on cats?

Monitor your cat for side effects. Examples of steroid side effects are increased appetite, increased water intake, and increased urination. Inhaled steroids can produce side effects like throat irritation and voice loss. Inhaled steroids usually have fewer side effects than oral or injectable steroids.

How to help a cat with asthma?

Give your cat a bronchodilator. Because cats can have asthma attacks just like people, you will need to know what to do if your cat has a severe asthma attack. Give your cat albuterol (under the supervision of your vet once a diagnosis has been reached), which is a very effective emergency bronchodilator.

Why does asthma affect cats?

This article has been viewed 29,250 times. Inflammation of the lungs due to inhaling allergens leads to the symptoms of asthma in cats. This inflammation occurs when a cat inhales an allergen (dust, pollen) that triggers the immune system, starting an allergic reaction that tightens the airways and leads to mucus buildup.

How to treat asthma in cats?

Treating Asthma In Cats. There are several different types of treatment for cat asthma, including medications and modifying your cat’s environment to reduce the likelihood of asthma attacks from occurring.

What are the symptoms of asthma in cats?

However, cat asthma is usually only diagnosed when other conditions are ruled out 10. Some conditions that may have similar symptoms include: 1 Feline Heartworm 2 Respiratory Infections 3 Lungworm 4 Foreign Bodies

What does it mean when a cat coughs?

This is usually a sign the passageways are swollen and/or constricted. 4. Coughing/hacking. During an asthma attack, your cat may be coughing or hacking. A coughing cat sounds a bit different than a coughing human—it will sound like your cat is trying to pass a hairball.

Why does asthma affect cats?

When cats with asthma breathe in allergens, it triggers an immune response that causes inflammation which results in irritation, swelling, and muscular constriction of the airways 2. This response leads to mucus accumulation and narrowing of the airways, making it hard for oxygen to reach the lungs.

How do you know if your cat has asthma?

Your cat may show one or several of the following symptoms: 1. Heavy/rapid breathing. The normal rate of breathing for cats is about 25-30 breaths per minute at rest 4.

How many breaths does a cat breathe?

The normal rate of breathing for cats is about 25-30 breaths per minute at rest 4. If you notice your cat is taking more than 40 breaths per minute (when not playing or excited) 5, it may be an indication of asthma.

Why is my cat lethargic?

Lethargy in cats is a possible sign of low oxygen in the blood, which can result from constricted or swollen air passages 6.

What causes asthma in cats?

Although there is some debate about the definition, most clinicians and researchers agree that feline asthma is caused by an allergic reaction to inhaled allergens, particles that stimulate a cat’s immun e system. When a susceptible cat first inhales an ...

How do you know if your cat has asthma?

Cats suffering from asthma may show signs of difficulty breathing, wheezing, rapid breathing, coughing or hacking, open-mouthed breathing, or vomiting. These signs can vary in intensity, ranging from acute respiratory crises to chronic, low-grade coughing, elevated respiratory rate, or increased respiratory effort.

What happens when a cat inhales an allergen?

When a susceptible cat first inhales an allergen, her system creates specific antibodies to target that antigen. When the cat is exposed to that antigen again, these antibodies recognize the allergen and start a cascade of events that bring many different types of immune cells to the airways.

Can a veterinarian diagnose asthma in cats?

There is no single, specific test that can definitively diagnose feline asthma. Instead, veterinarians rely on information gather ing and testing to arrive at a diagnosis. If a veterinarian suspects your cat may have asthma, he or she will take into account the cat’s health history as well as the results of imaging studies, microscopic evaluation of the cells in the cat’s airway secretions (cytology), and in some cases, blood and allergy testing.

Can cats have asthma?

Although cats can never be truly “cured” of asthma, by carefully monitoring their respiratory effort, keeping an eye out for coughing, and intervening with medication when they need help, owners can help their asthmatic cats live happily for years.

How to treat asthma in cats?

For cats with frequent and persistent symptoms, treatment involves administering corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation, and a bronchodilator that help relax the muscles in the lungs allowing the airways to open. Some bronchodilators also help to reduce inflammation and help clear mucus. For cats that have only occasional symptoms, the inhaler (also known as a puffer) may only be needed when an asthma event occurs. Depending on the severity of the disease, an inhaler can be a lifesaver for cats suffering from asthma.

How to use an asthma mask on a cat?

2. Remove the safety cap from the asthma medication inhaler. 3. Shake the inhaler well for 5 to 10 seconds, and then insert it into the appropriate end of the aerosol chamber. 4. Place your cat on your lap, on a towel, or other soft surface. 5. Gently place the aerosol chamber mask around your cat's nose and mouth.

What is the inhaler used for?

The inhaled medications used to manage feline asthma and bronchitis - corticosteroids and bronchodilators - are human medications, and they are delivered using a special aerosol chamber designed for cats. The inhaler canister attaches at one end of the chamber, and the cat's mouth and nose are covered by a soft face mask at the other end ...

Why do cats need inhalers?

Why does my cat need an inhaler? Feline asthma and bronchitis cause narrowing and swelling of the airways in the lungs. Most cats with asthma will experience coughing, difficulty breathing, open-mouth panting, and other signs of respiratory distress. If left untreated, death may occur in severe cases.

How long does it take for asthma to go away in cats?

Most cats will need 1-2 weeks of oral medication to control their initial case of asthma so that time can be used to help your cat accept the inhaler. Your veterinarian will demonstrate safe and correct use of the inhaled medications and the aerosol chamber.

How long does it take for a cat to get relief from cortisone?

Relief should be apparent within 12-24 hours. If an increase in water consumption or urination occurs, please inform us for future reference. These side effects are common with steroid administration and will go away in a few days without treatment. Long-term use of corticosteroids in cats may lead to serious side effects.

Can cats take corticosteroid?

Long-term oral corticosteroid use in cats often produces harmful side effects including diabetes mellitus. An inhaled steroid appears to be more effective than an oral one for the symptoms of feline asthma and bronchitis, and inhaled steroids are associated with fewer side effects than oral steroids.

What is feline asthma?

Like in humans, asthma in cats is a chronic inflammation of the small passageways in the lungs. Although incurable, it’s generally manageable with the right care and medication, and cats with the condition normally lead happy and active lives.

What causes asthma in cats?

Asthma in cats is an immunity-related condition and attacks can often be brought on by an allergy or stress. Suspected triggers include pollen, grass, mould, dust mites, tobacco smoke, cat litter, household cleaning products and even some foods.

Diagnosing feline asthma

There is no single test to accurately diagnose asthma. Other conditions which mimic the symptoms will initially need to be ruled out, including heart disease, heartworm, lungworm and respiratory infections.

What are the signs of a feline asthma attack?

During a minor attack your cat will normally start coughing and struggle to stop. They are likely to hold their neck out straight and keep their head close to the ground while coughing, with a wheezing sound audible.

What should I do if my cat has an asthma attack?

In the event of an attack, stay calm, give any medication prescribed by your vet and ensure they are in a quiet, cool area with good ventilation.

Treatment for feline asthma

There are two main types of treatment to manage asthma in cats – anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids to reduce the inflammation which leads to the symptoms, and bronchodilator medication which helps to widen a feline’s air passage when needed. Antihistamine drugs may also be used when cats haven’t responded to other treatments.

Can asthma in cats be prevented?

Although there is no cure, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of your cat suffering an asthma attack. Allergy testing can be done to enable you to establish the root cause of the condition, and eliminate the relevant triggers wherever possible.

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