What should you know about untreated asthma in cats?

Untreated asthma in cats can cause ongoing airway inflammation, breathing distress and sudden worsening, so veterinary assessment is needed. A cat may cough, wheeze, breathe rapidly, crouch with its neck extended or seem unusually quiet. Cats often hide illness, so a change in breathing deserves attention even when appetite appears normal.

Asthma causes sensitive, inflamed airways to narrow and produce mucus. Dust, smoke, fragrances, sprays and other airborne irritants may aggravate the problem; some cats may also react to allergens such as House Dust Mite Allergy. Coughing and Wheezing can occur, but several other heart, lung and airway disorders look similar. A vet may need an examination and tests before choosing treatment.

Arrange a veterinary appointment and record when coughing or breathing changes occur. Keep the cat calm, cool and away from smoke, aerosols, perfumes, dusty litter and strong cleaning fumes. Do not give human inhalers, cough medicines or leftover prescriptions. Follow the vet's plan exactly; some cats may be prescribed inhaled treatment, and Nebuliser Treatment may be considered in selected situations.

Treat open-mouth breathing, blue or grey gums, collapse, severe effort with each breath, inability to settle, or rapidly worsening breathing as an emergency. Minimise handling and transport the cat promptly in a well-ventilated carrier while contacting an emergency veterinary service. Do not wait for coughing to stop if breathing remains difficult.

Could asthma explain these signs, or is another lung or heart problem possible? Which household irritants should I remove? What should I do during an attack, and how will we monitor response to treatment?