Cat Allergies & Asthma

As in humans, allergies can be problematic in cats. In some cases, allergies can trigger feline asthma, which can cause permanent lung damage or become life threatening.

  1. Significance

    • Numerous allergens found both inside and outside the home can affect cats. In the case of a cat suffering feline asthma, it is important to determine if an allergen is the cause of the asthma, or if an underlying illness, such as bronchitis, is to blame.

    Types

    • Cats can be affected by several types of allergies, including fleas, food, kitty litter, inhalants such as smoke and contact with an irritating substance. Any of these allergies may trigger a feline asthma attack.

    Considerations

    • If an asthmatic cat has more than three attacks per day of a duration greater than five minutes, veterinary attention should be sought.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Once the source of a cat's allergies has been determined, owners should reduce or, if possible, eliminate exposure to that allergen. Cats diagnosed with feline asthma may undergo treatments such as oxygen treatment, use of a nebulizer specially designed for cats, or medication.

    Fact

    • Cats Magazine notes that 15 percent of cats in the U.S. suffer from at least one allergy.