Feline asthma affects approximately 1-5% of cats, with Siamese and Oriental breeds overrepresented. It is a Type I hypersensitivity reaction to inhaled allergens, leading to eosinophilic airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction. Use the Feline Medicine Specialist for case discussions and the Drug Formulary for dosing.
Clinical signs include cough (often described as "hairball" but unproductive), wheezing, dyspnea, and exercise intolerance. Differential diagnoses include heart disease, chronic bronchitis, lungworms, and neoplasia.
Thoracic radiographs may show bronchial pattern, hyperinflation, or atelectasis. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) reveals eosinophilic inflammation. Response to bronchodilator trial supports the diagnosis. Cardiac workup (echocardiography, NT-proBNP) rules out heart failure.
Warning: Acute asthmatic crisis is an emergency. Cats in respiratory distress need oxygen, minimal stress, and rapid bronchodilator therapy. Avoid excessive restraint—stress worsens dyspnea.
Inhaled corticosteroids (fluticasone) are the cornerstone of chronic management—they reduce airway inflammation with minimal systemic side effects. Bronchodilators (albuterol, terbutaline) provide rescue therapy during flare-ups.
Oral prednisolone may be used for initial control or in cats who cannot tolerate inhalers. Environmental modifications: reduce dust (low-dust litter), avoid smoking, use HEPA filters, and minimize aerosol sprays.
Spacer devices (e.g., AeroKat) are essential for effective delivery of inhaled medications to cats. Proper technique improves drug deposition in the airways.
- Feline asthma presents as cough, wheezing, dyspnea—rule out heart disease.
- Inhaled fluticasone is first-line chronic therapy; albuterol for rescue.
- Environmental control: low-dust litter, no smoking, HEPA filters.
- Acute crisis requires oxygen, minimal stress, bronchodilators.
- Use PetMed AI for drug dosing and specialist guidance.