CatAsthma.org :: Cat Asthma Basics
What is Cat Asthma (Feline Asthma)?Just like Asthma in humans, Feline Asthma is a respiratory disease of the lower lungs.
What causes it?
Many vets think it is caused by an allergic reaction. This reaction stimulates the immune system of the cat.
Descrbed by Cornell Veterinary School:
When a susceptible cat first inhales an allergen, her system creates specific antibodies to target that antigen. When the cat is exposed to that antigen again, these antibodies recognize the allergen and start a cascade of events that bring many different types of immune cells to the airways. These immune cells then trigger the production of substances that promote inflammation, a condition that results in irritation, swelling, and reactive constriction of the airways. As a result, the diameter of the airways may decrease and mucus may accumulate within the passages. All these processes limit the ability of air to move through the airways and cause the cat to experience difficulty breathing.Is Feline Asthma common?
The condition is estimated to affect around 5% of cats.
Will my cat get better?
Unfortunately, FA is a progressive condition. However, you can try to mitigate the symptoms and give your cat a long, healthy life with some intervention.
How severe is the disease?
It is a condition that can be potentially life-threatening if not treated. Being a progressive disease, you will notice your cat goes from having very mild, infrequent symptoms to more severe symptoms as her life goes on.
Some of the allergens known to cause attacks are:
| Allergens | Solution |
|---|---|
| Cigarette Smoke | Dont smoke indoors |
| Pollen | Run an air purifier |
| Dust | Clean regularly, run an air purifier |
| Mold | Clean regularly |
| Mildew | Clean regularly |
| Clay Litter Dust | Switch to a wood litter like Okocat |
| Scented Laundry Detergent | Use unscented detergents |
| Feather Pillows | Switch to foam or synthetic |
| Aerosol Cans | Dont use these indoors |
| Cold, Dry Air | Keep her indoors |
| Chemical Cleaners | Try to limit amount of cleaners used |
| Fireplace Smoke | If you have a fire, keep the vent open |
| Candle Smoke | Try to limit canle usage |
| Perfumes | Try to limit perfume usage |
| Dust | Clean regularly |
| Diet (Fish and low grade Chicken) | Swith to venison, lamb, goat, or other alternative meats |
| Obesity | Help her lose weight |
| Heart Conditions | Talk with your vet |
| Heart Worm | Talk with your vet |
| Extreme Stress | Try to be low stress, not upsetting her |
| Pneumonia | Talk to vet |