Is Feline Asthma Treatable?

Asthma is not just a condition that impacts humans. Cats can also suffer from it. With proper treatment, you can help your cat stay in good health. If your cat is showing any symptoms of feline asthma, here is what you need to know.

What Are the Symptoms of Feline Asthma?

Feline asthma can result from a number of causes, including smoking or a lung infection. Sometimes it is not possible to pinpoint the exact cause.

The symptoms your cat could experience are similar to those humans with asthma have. Coughing, sneezing, and trouble breathing are the most commonly experienced symptoms. The breathing difficulties that your cat is having could lead to it having a decreased appetite or feeling weak.

When your cat is doing an activity, you might also notice that its breathing increases dramatically. It could even suffer from discoloration in its skin.

How Is It Treated?

If you suspect your cat has asthma, it is important that you seek medical treatment for it. The veterinarian can assess your cat and make a determination. Once the diagnosis is made, your cat can start to receive treatment.

Feline asthma is not curable, so your vet will focus on managing the symptoms. You play a major role in managing those symptoms. It is important that you fully understand the recommendations of your vet. Ask for clarification if you are not sure about a part of the treatment.

Treatment can include the use of corticosteroid therapy. The corticosteroids work to prevent the immune-system response that often triggers an asthma attack. You might also have to give your cat bronchodilator pills, which are intended to open up your cat's airways in the event that it does suffer an asthma attack.

What Can You Do at Home?

One of the most important steps you can take to safeguard your cat's health is to keep an asthma diary. Note when your cat is experiencing symptoms and what it was doing prior to showing those symptoms. You also need to keep notes on your cat's responses to treatment. Your vet can use this information to make adjustments to the cat's treatment, if necessary.

You also need to focus on removing irritants that can trigger an asthma attack. For instance, air fresheners and cigarette smoke could cause negative changes to your cat's breathing.

Talk to a vet, such as one from Coastal Carolina Animal Hospital, about other ways you can make your pet comfortable while it is in the home. 


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