Effects of Primatene on a Feline

Primatene is a fast-acting over-the-counter remedy for upper respiratory congestion. The primary active ingredient is ephedrine, which stimulates the involuntary nervous system. This affects the body muscles that are not under conscious control, such as the cardiac, respiratory and digestive systems. As of Dec. 31, 2011, Primatene Mist, the inhaled aerosol form, is no longer available because it contained CFC propellants that the Food & Drug Administration said damaged the ozone layer. Primatene is still available over the counter in tablet form, but because its effects can be both beneficial and dangerous, you should give it to your cat only as directed by a veterinarian.

  1. Allergies

    • The Primatene Mist metered-dose inhaler was popular as a quick reliever of acute allergic reactions in people and animals. Symptoms in cats include airway obstruction with wheezing, urticaria (red, swollen lips, eyes and neck), vomiting, diarrhea, staggering, pale gums, cold limbs, rapid heart rate, weak pulse and sudden drop in blood pressure. If your cat is prone to life-threatening allergic reactions, keep an Epi-Pen of the appropriate dosage handy as an emergency substitute for the Primatene inhaler. Oral or injected Primatene has the same effect as inhaled, but acts more slowly and lasts longer. If your cat has chronic respiratory issues, you can still administer breathing treatments with specially designed inhalers such as the AeroKat Feline Aerosol.

    Asthma

    • The ephedrine in Primatene affects a cat's respiratory tract -- the nasal passages, the trachea or windpipe and the bronchial tubes -- by constricting blood vessels, thus reducing inflammation and swelling. This opens up the airways so that the cat can breathe. It also stimulates the heart rate and raises the blood pressure.

    Incontinence

    • Primatene is sometimes prescribed by veterinarians for incontinence in small animals. The ephedrine increases the tone of the muscles controlling the bladder outlet and helps the cat retain his urine.

    Side Effects

    • Under the influence of ephedrine your cat may show side effects of the drug in addition to the desired results. These can include loss of appetite, rapid heartbeat, restlessness, irritability, agitation or aggression and dilated pupils. If these occur, you may need to crate the cat for safety and comfort and observe him closely. Such effects are transient and will dissipate as the ephedrine wears off.

    Contraindications

    • Because ephedrine tends to raise blood sugar levels, you should not use Primatene if your cat is diabetic. If your cat has heart problems or is hyperthyroid, do not use Primatene. Its use in pregnant cats has not been studied.