Feline asthma: what to know

In feline asthma, the small airways become inflamed and may narrow, making it harder for a cat to move air. Episodes can be triggered by inhaled irritants or allergens such as dust, smoke, sprays, and dusty litter. A cat may crouch, extend its neck, breathe noisily, or cough as if trying to bring up a hairball. Similar signs can occur with infection, parasites, heart disease, or another lung problem, so a diagnosis cannot be made from a video or symptom alone.

Keep the cat away from smoke, perfume, aerosol sprays, fireplace fumes, and dusty areas. Use low-dust litter, improve ventilation, and follow the veterinarian's inhaler or other treatment plan exactly. Never give a human inhaler or medicine unless a veterinarian has prescribed it for that cat. Record when episodes happen, what the cat was doing, and how long recovery takes; this can help identify triggers and guide treatment.

Seek emergency veterinary care if the cat is breathing with its mouth open, using its belly forcefully, has blue or grey gums, collapses, cannot settle, or is struggling to breathe. Do not chase, restrain, or stress a distressed cat; place it calmly in a carrier and seek help. Repeated coughing, wheezing, reduced activity, or poor appetite warrants a prompt appointment even if the episode settles.

What tests will distinguish asthma from infection, parasites, or heart disease? Which inhaler or treatment should be used during an episode? How can I deliver it calmly, and which breathing changes mean emergency care?