Asthma in Cats: Symptoms and Treatments

Cats can have asthma and asthma attacks. Asthma in cats is often an allergic reaction to inhaled allergens and affects approximately 1-5% of cats. Here, our Cleveland vets explain asthma in cats, its symptoms, and treatment options.

Symptoms of Asthma in Cats

How do you know if your cat has asthma? Often the first signs that your cat may be having an asthma attacks are coughing and wheezing. You might also notice that your cat is hunched close to the ground with their neck extended forward as if trying to expel a hairball.

If your cat is experiencing a full-blown asthma attack you will be able to see your cat's sides going in and out as they work hard to breathe, and you may also notice that they are drooling or coughing up mucus. All of this can cause your cat to become very frightened and stressed. If you notice that your cat is having difficulties breathing, contact your vet immediately for assistance or call your nearest animal emergency hospital!

Other signs that your cat may be having an asthma attack include:

Another sign of asthma in cats is rapid breathing during sleep. While resting or sleeping your cat will normally take between 24 - 30 breaths per minute. If you notice that your cat is taking more than 40 breaths per minute call your vet immediately for assistance.

Note: If your cat is snoring or breathing loudly when resting it doesn't necessarily mean that they are having an asthma attack. That said, if you are concerned about your cat's breathing it is always best to err on the side of caution and contact your vet for further advice.

Causes of Asthma Attacks 

What triggers asthma in cats? Asthma attacks are frequently brought on by the cat inhaling an allergen, or possibly due to increased stress levels. A few of the most common allergens to trigger asthma attacks in cats include:

Several underlying conditions could contribute to the severity of your cat's asthma attack including pneumonia, obesity, parasites, a pre-existing heart condition, or a genetic predisposition. 

Treatment for Asthma 

What can I give my cat for asthma? If your cat is diagnosed with asthma, treatment may include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in your cat's lungs, and possibly a bronchodilator to help dilate your cat's airways. These drugs may be prescribed by your vet in the form of an injectable, oral medication, or an inhaler. In some cases the vet may prescribe a corticosteroid medication only as treatment for your cat's asthma, however, bronchodilators are not generally used on their own since they do not treat the inflammation that causes the asthma attacks.

What is the life expectancy of a cat with asthma? Asthma in cats is an incurable and often progressive condition, which means that cats with asthma are likely to experience periodic flare-ups that can vary in intensity from mild to life-threatening.

Nonetheless, the condition is manageable with a little extra care from pet parents and medication. By monitoring your cat's respiratory effort, watching for coughing, and intervening with medication when needed, you can help your asthmatic cats live happy life for years to come.

Diet & Asthma in Cats

What should you feed your cat with asthma? There is a lot of advice out there as to what you should feed your cat if they suffer from asthma. If you think that a change of diet could help your cat's asthma symptoms, consult your vet. Helping your cat maintain a healthy weight while ensuring that all of its nutritional needs are met, is a great way for pet parents to help their cat stay healthy.

Your vet will be able to recommend the right diet for your pet, based on your cat's medical history and overall state of health.