Medications used for asthma in cats
Cat Asthma Information Covered
Cat Asthma Symptoms and Signs
The symptoms vary in severity and range from an occasional to persistent coughing and wheezing. Asthmatic cats often stand hunched with their head stretched forward while they cough. Sometimes it may appear that they are coughing something up. In more severe attacks the cat may suffer from acute respiratory distress (heaving) and open mouth breathing.
What Cats can get Asthma
Cats between the ages of one and eight years are the most likely to develop asthma.
Male cats are half as likely to get it. It can occur any time of the year and doesn't appear to favor any specific season.
How is feline asthma diagnosed?
Cat asthma is diagnosed through a combination of presenting symptoms, a chest x-rays can show inflammation of the bronchioles in the lungs. Improvement of the symptoms when injectable or oral steroids are used usually confirms the diagnosis. Because there are many other diseases that can cause similar symptoms, a complete diagnostic workup is usually performed. A blood count and chemistry profile are usually performed in addition to a heartworm check.
How to Treat Cats With Asthma
Steroids (oral form) may be prescribed. These reduce inflammation. There may be side effects from long term use of steroids such as diabetes, pancreatitis, increased urination, weight gain, behavioral changes.
Steroids (inhaler form). Same as above, they reduce inflammation. There is a relatively new inhaler system on the market called AeroKat, Flovent is the most commonly used inhalant steroid. Inhaled steroids generally don't get into the system as much as oral steroids, thus side effects are greatly reduced.
Bronchodilators: These help open the airway at times of severe coughing or wheezing.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The preceding information is intended to heighten awareness of health information and does not suggest diagnosis or treatment. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.