Asthma in cats

Asthma in cats is known as feline asthma. While it cannot be cured, it can be managed with the correct care and treatment.

Find out what causes asthma in cats, how it is treated and what to do if you think your cat is having an asthma attack.

What is feline asthma?

Similar to asthma in people, feline asthma is a respiratory condition that causes your cat's airways to become irritated or inflamed, making it difficult for them to breathe. It is often triggered by environmental allergies such as dust.

It usually develops in cats between the ages of two and eight years old, and can be more common in females. Certain breeds also have a genetic disposition to the condition, such as Siamese and himalayan cats.

Feline asthma cannot be cured, but it is generally manageable with the right care and medication. Cats with the condition normally lead happy and active lives.

Symptoms of asthma in cats

If your cat has asthma, they may show signs such as:

• a persistent cough or gagging
• frothy mucus while coughing
• wheezing
• rapid or difficulty breathing, or increased effort to breathe
• difficulty breathing after exercise
• breathing with their mouth open
• extending their neck upwards and gasping for breath
• overall weakness and lethargy

If your cat shows any signs of asthma, even if their symptoms come and go, it's important to book an appointment with your vet.

Snoring or loud breathing when resting is not necessarily a sign of asthma.

Causes of asthma in cats

Asthma in cats is caused by allergens in your cat's environment. Some allergens that can trigger asthma include:

• pollen
• grass
• mould
• dust mites
• tobacco smoke
• cat litter
• household cleaning products
• some foods

Diagnosing asthma in cats

There is no single test to accurately diagnose asthma. Your vet will need to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as heart disease, lungworm and respiratory infections.

Other tests your vet may perform include:

• listening to your cat's chest with a stethoscope
• taking blood tests
• taking a chest x-ray
• performing a Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). This involves taking a sample of fluid and cells from the airways.
• starting a treatment trial with medication

Treating asthma in cats

There are two main types of treatment to manage asthma in cats:

• anti-inflammatory drugs called corticosteroids, which can help to reduce the inflammation in your cat's airways
• bronchodilator medication, which helps to widen your cat's airways when needed

These medications are often given through an inhaler designed for cats with asthma, but they can also be given in tablet or injection form. It is important to use an inhaler recommend by your vet as inhalers used by people will not work effectively for your cat.

Cat asthma attacks

Sometimes allergens in the air can trigger an asthma attack. Severe asthma attacks can be dangerous for your cat, so it's important to know what to do.

Signs of an asthma attack

Minor asthma attack

If your cat is having a minor asthma attack, they will normally start coughing and struggle to stop. They may sit in a hunched position, with their neck out straight and their head close to the ground while coughing. You might notice they are breathing faster than usual and you also may be able to hear them wheezing.

Severe asthma attack

If your cat is having a severe asthma attack, breathing becomes difficult and their sides will very visibly heave in and out. They will be unable to do anything else, and in extreme cases they may:

• start panting
• look frightened
• cough up mucus
• drool

If this happens it’s important to call your vet immediately.

Helping your cat through an asthma attack

If your cat is having an asthma attack, it's important to stay calm and give them any medication prescribed by your vet. Make sure they are in a quiet, cool area with good ventilation.

If your cat is having a severe attack, contact your vet straight away. If you need to take your cat to the veterinary surgery, make sure your car is well ventilated with a window open to let in plenty of fresh air. Try to keep them calm, as getting more stressed can worsen the attack.

Preventing feline asthma attacks

Although there is no cure, there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of your cat suffering from an asthma attack. Think about what possible irritants or allergens in your home could be triggering your cat's asthma and how you could eliminate them.

You should also:

• avoid smoking and using perfumes, air fresheners or any aerosol products around your cat, as these can irritate your cat's airways
• avoid using cat litters that create lots of dust or are scented
• keep your cat in shape and provide a good diet, as being overweight can make your cat's asthma worse
• consider using an air filter or purifier to help reduce allergens like dust

It’s also a good idea to keep a diary of any asthma attacks your cat suffers, as this can help to build up a picture of any seasonal patterns or environmental factors that can trigger their symptoms. Record the time and date, severity of the attack and any treatment given. Taking a video to show your vet can be very helpful.

If you are concerned about your cat's breathing, always contact your vet.