How to Help a Cat With Emphysema

Cats, similar to humans, are subject to a wide variety of respiratory diseases, including asthma, bronchitis and even emphysema. While some of these feline health issues have the same causes and respond to the same treatments as those of humans, there are some notable differences as well. This is especially true when it comes to feline emphysema.

  1. Symptoms

    • Feline emphysema and other lower respiratory tract ailments have many of the same symptoms. These symptoms include coughing and wheezing, especially with the neck extended during coughing episodes. In many cases, the emphysema begins with bronchitis or asthma. As these diseases progress, the cat may have greater trouble expelling all the air in the lungs, thus leading to emphysema. Harsh lung sounds and open-mouthed breathing are also indicative of the disease.

    Causes

    • Lower respiratory tract diseases including emphysema in cats may begin with an allergy to some environmental factor, such as excessive dust, cigarette or fireplace smoke, pollen or other pollutants, or even parasite infestations. Some cases of feline emphysema may begin with pneumonia; other cases, such as subcutaneous emphysema, may be the result of tears in the trachea that have occurred during surgical procedures or other trauma. X-rays, blood work and endoscopic biopsies are often required for diagnosis.

    Environmental Changes

    • Many cases of feline emphysema will improve with changes to the cat's environment. Reducing the cat's exposure to dust, smoke -- especially cigarette smoke -- aerosol sprays and possible allergens have proved beneficial. Removing the cat from stressful situations and keeping him at an optimum weight will decrease symptoms. While environmental changes will provide relief in mild cases, medical treatment is often required.

    Medical Treatment

    • Treating feline emphysema medically often depends on the cause and severity. While oxygen may be needed for severe attacks, the majority of feline lower respiratory tract diseases can be treated through the use of bronchodilators and corticosteroids. Severe cases may require ongoing treatment or even the use of long-acting injectable steroids. Those cats with subcutaneous emphysema as a result of a tracheal tear may respond to cage rest and oxygen treatment; severe cases may require surgery.