Does my cat have feline asthma?

Feline asthma is very similar to human asthma. It is a chronic inflammation of the small ducts of a cat's lungs . When an asthma attack occurs, these passages become thicker and contract, making it difficult for the feline to breathe.

This often leads to respiratory distress, which can become severe in a matter of minutes . The lungs may also begin to discharge mucus into the airways, resulting in coughing and wheezing.

Some cats with milder cases only experience a mild but chronic cough > Because asthma can quickly become a life-threatening health problem, any cat with cough needs a veterinary evaluation.

General symptoms of feline asthma

  • Cough persistent
  • Wheezing
  • Gasping for breath
  • Expectorating foamy mucus
  • Mouth open for breathing
  • Lips and gums blue
  • Forced breathing after straining
  • General weakness and lethargy

Feline asthma: symptoms

What causes feline asthma?

While there are a number of factors that contribute to feline asthma, it is thought to develop as a result of allergic bronchitis . Allergic bronchitis occurs when the airways in a cat's lungs become inflamed due to an inhaled allergen or other substance that stimulates the immune system.

Common factors that can contribute to the severity of an attack asthma include:

  • Allergens, including pollen, mold, cat litter, cigarette smoke, perfumes, and certain foods.
  • Conditions or diseases of pre-existing heart.
  • Parasites.
  • Extreme stress.
  • Obesity.

Symptoms similar to feline asthma. they can also be associated with other diseases such as heart parasites, respiratory parasites, tumors, heart failure and pneumonia.

Are certain cats more prone to asthma?

Feline asthma it usually develops between the ages of 2 and 8 years , with a higher incidence in cats than in males. Siamese and Himalayan breeds, and breed mixtures, seem to have asthma more often than others.

What should I do if I think my cat has asthma?

Visit your veterinarian immediately if you think your cat has developed asthma . The specialist will perform a physical examination and will most likely recommend diagnostic tests to find out what is causing the problem.

 Feline asthma: treatment

How is feline asthma diagnosed?

Since the symptoms of asthma may be similar to those observed With other diseases, such as heartworm, pneumonia, and congestive heart failure, it is important that your veterinarian determine the cause of the attacks.

There is no specific evidence demonstrating asthma

strong, but generally x-rays, blood tests, evaluation of bronchial secretions and tests of parasites will be done to rule out other causes.

How can feline asthma be treated?

While there is no true cure for asthma, there are several methods to control it successfully g> Effective therapy may include medications that open the airways and reduce inflammation or modify the body's immune response.