Understanding Asthma and Chronic Bronchitis in Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Feline asthma and chronic bronchitis are common respiratory conditions in cats that can significantly impact their quality of life. Understanding these conditions, their symptoms, diagnosis and treatments can help you manage your cat's health more effectively.

What Are Feline Asthma and Chronic Bronchitis?

Chronic bronchitis involves persistent inflammation of the airways, often accompanied by excessive mucus production, coughing, and wheezing. Feline asthma is a lower airway inflammatory disease characterized by bronchoconstriction (intermittent narrowing of airways), increased mucus production, and bouts of difficulty breathing.

Many cats with brochitis will have audible wheezing on veterinary examination

Causes and Triggers

The exact causes of feline asthma and bronchitis are not well understood but are thought to be due to allergic reactions to inhaled substances that cause an inflammatory response in a cat's airways

 Environmental factors that may worsen airway inflammation include:

- Dust from cat litter

- Cigarette smoke

- Perfumes and air fresheners

- Mold and mildew

- Household cleaners and sprays

Symptoms to Watch For

- Persistent coughing

- Wheezing and noisy breathing

- Difficulty breathing, especially during exhalation

- Open-mouth breathing

- Decreased energy levels

- Bluish gums due to lack of oxygen in critical cases

Coughing in cats can sometimes be mistaken for hairball expulsion, so it's important to observe closely and make a booking for a vet visit if you notice these symptoms.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing feline asthma and bronchitis involves ruling out other conditions that cause similar symptoms, such as infections, parasties, and in rare cases, more sinister conditions such as lung tumors. Diagnostic tests may include:

- Physical examination and history

- Chest X-rays or CT

- Bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage to examine airway cells

Asthma/bronchitis in cats is relatively simple to diagnose

These tests help confirm the presence of non-infectious eosinophilic or neutrophilic airway inflammation, which are indicative of asthma and bronchitis

Treatment Options

Managing feline asthma and chronic bronchitis typically involves a combination of medications and environmental modifications:

Medications

- Corticosteroids: These are the mainstay of treatment to reduce airway inflammation. They can be administered orally, by injection, or via inhalation using special aerosol chambers designed for cats.

- Bronchodilators: These medications help relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier for the cat to breathe. They are often used in conjunction with corticosteroids.

Below is an instructional video on using an inhaler that owners will find helpul.

Environmental Management

Reducing exposure to potential triggers is crucial. This may involve:

- Using dust-free cat litter

- Avoiding smoking indoors

- Minimising the use of perfumes, air fresheners, and household sprays

- Ensuring good ventilation and reducing mold and mildew in the home

Long-Term Management and Prognosis

Most cats with asthma and chronic bronchitis require lifelong management. With appropriate treatment and environmental control, many cats can live comfortably. However, severe cases can lead to repeated episodes of respiratory distress and may require more intensive management.

Feline asthma and chronic bronchitis are serious but manageable conditions. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options, cat owners can help their pets lead healthier, more comfortable lives. Always check in with us for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan for your cat.