Can cats have asthma? Actually, they can. If your kitty is prone to wheezing, it might not simply be a hairball. She may be among the 1 to 5 percent of cats who develop feline asthma, according to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Keep reading to learn the signs of asthma in cats and find out how to help your wheezy kitty.
What Is Cat Asthma?
Just like human asthma, feline asthma is a respiratory condition affecting the lower airways that is believed to be triggered by inhaling allergens and other irritants, says Cornell. These irritants trigger an immune response that causes the individual bronchi (tubes) in the lungs to constrict and the surrounding tissues to swell, sending the cat into respiratory distress.
Although cats sometimes recover from asthma attacks on their own, the situation can be life threatening, so a cat experiencing an asthma attack should be taken to a veterinarian as quickly as possible.
Causes
Cats begin to develop asthma when the immune system develops antibodies to target a specific inhaled allergen, says Cornell. Then, when the cat inhales that allergen again, these antibodies go into overdrive, causing inflammation in the lungs that triggers swelling, irritation and airway constriction. As a result of all this, thick mucus accumulates in the lungs, further inhibiting the cat's ability to breathe. While exercise and stress can also trigger an attack in a kitty with asthma, Cornell identifies the following irritants as the most likely to cause an asthma attack:
- Cigarette smoke
- Fireplace smoke
- Dust and pollen
- Mold and mildew
- Household chemicals and cleaning agents
- Aerosol sprays
- Cat litter dust
How to Recognize an Asthma Attack
A cat asthma attack can be tough to spot because symptoms can easily be mistaken for a hairball, especially in the early stages. One way to tell the difference is to note your kitty's body posture, says The Spruce Pets. During an asthma attack, your cat will be hunched lower to the ground than she is when she's coughing up a hairball, with her head and neck fully extended in an attempt to take in more air. Listen for any wheezing, coughing or sneezing.
Another difficulty is that attacks might not happen that often, at least in the beginning, making them easier to dismiss as signs of something less worrisome. Other signs of asthma to watch for include wheezing or labored breathing following exercise, or exercise intolerance — meaning that your kitty easily becomes too tired for vigorous activity. This sign alone is a good reason to have your cat checked by a vet.
Tasty Tips
Diagnosing Cat Asthma
While there's not a diagnostic test specifically for cat asthma, says Cornell, your vet will likely run a battery of tests to rule out other causes. They may also gather information on your kitty's health history and your own observations at home.
In addition to blood and allergy tests and a cytology test (that looks at the mucus secreted from the cat's airways), your vet might perform an X-ray and a CT scan to view the condition of her lungs. If necessary, a bronchoscopy (examination of the airways) might be performed, which will require your kitty to be placed under general anesthesia.
Feline Asthma Treatment
If your cat has persistent asthma, she'll likely be started on a steady course of corticosteroid medication to reduce lung inflammation. A bronchodilator similar to a human inhaler might also be prescribed, to be administered as needed. These inhalers can be accompanied by a breathing champer specifically made for cats to help with their breathing.
In addition to medication, it's important to do everything you can to eliminate triggering allergens from your home. If you're a smoker, this means that for your cat's sake you should take your habit outside (and thoroughly wash clothing with pet safe detergents), and your kitty will need to be kept away from any wood-burning stoves or fireplaces. Give your home a thorough cleaning to eliminate mold, mildew and dust, and make it a habit to dust and vacuum regularly.
It's also a good idea to switch to pet-safe cleaning solutions with ingredients like plain vinegar and baking soda. You should avoid burning candles and incense or using scented plug-ins or air fresheners. Finally, if you use a clay-based cat litter, consider switching your litter to a dust-free formula or an alternative litter that uses dust-free elements like pine pellets, recycled newspaper or silicone crystals.
Unfortunately, cat asthma is not a curable condition. It is manageable, however, and with proper care and due diligence on your part, your asthmatic kitty can go on to live a long and happy life.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful fur for adult cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Canned Cat Food Variety Pack, Vegetable & Chicken and Liver & Chicken
Feline Adult Perfect Weight Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Vegetable & Turkey Medley Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Roasted Vegetable & Chicken Medley cat food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Multiple Benefit Chicken Recipe cat food
Supports ideal body weight for cats with different body types
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Chicken Dinner cat food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of savory minced chicken to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Savory Entrée Can Variety Pack
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice cat food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful fur
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Vegetable Entrée Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Vegetable Entrée canned cat food provides nutrition for optimal digestive & skin health.
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Tender Tuna & Vegetables Stew cat food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Poached Salmon & Spinach Medley Cat Food
Delicious poached salmon paired with tender spinach in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Liver & Chicken Entrée
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner cat food
Delectable chunks with tender tuna smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Indoor Chicken Recipe
Healthy digestion for easy litter box clean-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Liver & Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Low calorie formula with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to help promote an ideal body weight
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for cats age 7+
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Fewer calories for less active cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Related articles
Important Information About Kidney Disease in Cats
Kidney disease and renal failure can kill your cat. Know these 4 facts about feline kidney disease, the symptoms to look for, and when to call your vet.
Cat Arthritis: Signs, Causes and Treatment
Get the answers to your questions about cat arthritis here, from signs of arthritis in cats to treatment for feline arthritis.
My Cat Ate String: Dangers, What to Do & Treatments
Discover health issues that can occur if your cat eats string, what you should do if you're sure they did, and possible treatments your vet might suggest.
Does My Cat Have a Broken Leg? How to Tell (& How It Could've Happened)
If you've seen your cat limping or having trouble walking, learn important info about common causes, symptoms and treatment options for a broken leg.
Why You Should Brush Your Cat's Teeth Regularly
Learn why brushing your cat's teeth regularly is important. Good oral hygiene and care involves right supplies, method and cat food formulated for oral health.
Adopting an Adult Cat: What You Need to Know
Understand how adopting an adult cat from a shelter is different than adopting a cat, and what to expect when you bring her home for the first time.
Why is Fiber Important in Cat Food?
Learn about the role of fiber in cat food, including how it can benefit cats with a variety of health conditions like diarrhea, constipation and diabetes.
Is Your Cat Hiding Their Pain? Recognizing the Signs & Symptoms.
Cats can often mask their pain or discomfort depending on the ailment. It is important to spot the signs early and consult your vet. Learn more here.
Why Do Cats Lick Their Paws? Can it Become Excessive?
Learn common reasons why cats lick their paws, as well as signs when it might be excessive (such as hair loss) & what to do if it seems like a problem.
Why Exercise is Important to Keep Your Cat Healthy
Learn how to keep your new kitten active and playful, which can help her maintain her ideal weight.
Suggestions to Make Your Cat Drink from a Bowl
If your cat refuses to drink from her water dish, or sees it more of a toy, learn some different ways you can encourage your cat to drink from a bowl.
All About Your Cat's Sleeping Habits
Learn all about your cat's sleep schedule, why she seems to be most active during twilight hours and what it means to be a crepuscular kitty.
Choosing the Best Cat Food: What to Look For
Choosing the best food for your cat, starts with choosing the right food for its needs. Learn about some of the things you should be considering.
Finding Your New Kitten: Where to Look
If you're interested in getting a kitten, read this article to find out about the different places you can get one from adoption to pedigree breeders.
Smart Litter Boxes: What You Need to Know
Learn helpful information about self-cleaning litter boxes, including how they actually work, overall benefits, typical costs and transitioning tips.
Does My Cat Have Dry Skin?
Learn how to spot signs of excessive dry skin in cats, what could be causing your kitty's skin irritation, and how you can help treat it.
Tips for Building a DIY Cat Perch
Learn why your cat loves to be up high and how to build a DIY cat perch to keep her happy. Discover what materials you'll need and how to put it together.
Real Life Stories of Caring for Cats with Disabilities
Read about the journey of three cats with disabilities and how, despite their handicaps, they're just as lovable and capable as any other cat.
How Cats Show Affection to Their Humans
Discover some common ways that cats show love for their owners. Learn to recognize these signs of affection, even though they might seem a little bizarre.
What Is My Cat's Body Language Telling Me?
Learn to decipher your cat's numerous non-verbal language queues, including the meanings behind expressions through her eyes, ears, tail and stance.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.