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Respiratorias

Feline asthma

A chronic respiratory disease in cats, similar to human asthma: the airways become inflamed and narrow. An acute attack can be life-threatening.

Severe🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

URGENT if the cat is breathing with its mouth open, is in obvious distress or its gums turn bluish: this is a respiratory emergency.

Symptoms to watch for

  • Coughing (the cat adopts a crouched posture with the neck extended)
  • Wheezing (whistling breathing)
  • Difficulty breathing, panting (abnormal in cats)
  • Choking attacks in severe cases
  • Exercise intolerance

Causes

An allergic/inflammatory reaction of the airways to inhaled particles: smoke, air fresheners, dusty cat litter, pollen, mites.

Diagnosis

Chest X-ray, sometimes bronchoalveolar lavage. The vet rules out other causes of coughing.

Treatment

Lifelong management: corticosteroids (inhaled or systemic) for the inflammation, bronchodilators during attacks. Reduce environmental triggers.

Prevention

Avoid tobacco smoke, air fresheners and sprays, use dust-free litter, reduce allergens in the home.

When should you see the vet?

URGENT if the cat is breathing with its mouth open, is in obvious distress or its gums turn bluish: this is a respiratory emergency.

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.