Asthma in Cats
have asthma, or have some type of bronchial sensitivity, is probably the last thing that crosses our minds. That said, perhaps we should at least consider the possibility because with cat asthma comes many responsibilities, not to mention those wheezing episodes that would make granny’s bouts with snoring seem inconsequential. Cat asthma is basically super sensitivity to environmental allergens. This condition resembles that of bronchial asthma in humans. It is estimated that one out of every one hundred (1%) felines has the condition, with Siamese having a slightly higher incidence of asthma. Some asthmatic cats show severe respiratory symptoms with others simply having a history of chronic wheezing and coughing. Those with a chronic cough may need to be distinguished from cats with a hairball problem. For some there will be seasonal triggers, at which times their asthma will become much worse. One example would be in areas where the pollen count goes through the roof in the spring making life miserable for both asthmatic pets and pet parents with bronchial challenges. In some instances, asthmatic attacks may be triggered by exposure to inhaled allergens, such as kitty litter, tobacco smoke, and carpet deodorizers. Some estimates have heartworms as the leading cause of feline asthma, though in many instances the initiating cause is unknown. An acute attack starts with the sudden onset of difficulty breathing, accompanied by wheezing and coughing. This is associated with a sudden contraction of the smooth muscles surrounding the bronchi. The bronchial tubes are then dramatically narrowed. The wheezing is heard as the cat exhales, and usually it is loud enough to be noticeable. When attacks are severe, a cat may assume a hunched should posture or lie chest down with the mouth open in a desperate attempt to breathe. The mucous membranes will assume a bluish color due to the lack of oxygen. This is known as cyanosis. Only two other conditions produce similar signs and symptoms; pleural effusion and pulmonary edema. Tips for helping reduce asthma symptoms in cats While severe cases of cat asthma will likely require the help of your friendly veterinarian there are a number of steps you can take to help your feline breathe easier. * Have your cat checked for heartworms: Some experts believe this to be the leading cause so it should be ruled out first. * Upgrade air filters: Every year I have my heating units checked just before the winter season. The heating and air guy installs a new air filter and leaves a couple of extra ones for when they need to be changed. That said, these freebies are poor quality and are of very little use. Air filters generally have an air quality rating clearly displayed. If you have a cat with asthma you should be looking for one with a rating of 10. *Check your cat’s litter: Some litters leave your cat in a cloud of air borne litter. This is a definite negative for cats with bronchial sensitivities and litters that produce little are no dust are definitely preferable. * No smoking: It might surprise you to find out that cats are actually more sensitive to cigar and cigarette smoke than people. * Obesity can make asthma worse: If you are the proud pet parent of a fat cat then helping him shed a few might make everyone concerned breathe a little easier. * Clean more: The roar of the vacuum cleaner might not make your finicky feline very happy but it just might help his asthma. * Find the cause: if all of the sudden your cat starts to have breathing problems it could be a result of a change you have made. Have you changed laundry detergents or shampoos lately? Have you had new carpet installed or recently purchased new furniture? There are many other possibilities but you get the idea. * Protect against dust mites: Enclose mattresses and pillows in vinyl cases and wash in hot water once a week. * Eliminate outdoor activities in allergy season: During certain times of the year airborne allergens are simply terrible. If you feel hayfever or pollen could be the cause of your cats wheezing, sneezing, and coughing keep him indoors until seasonal allergies pass and air quality improves. * Dry air can make matters worse: Air humidity should be maintained at around 30 percent with anything under 20 being potential low enough to exasperate feline asthma and other breathing concerns. Helpful Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies for Cat Asthma |
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