Feline Asthma Prognosis

Because asthma in felines can be contracted by many different underlying conditions, the prognosis is different for each case. Depending on the severity of the case, some cats undergo one-time treatments while others must receive life-time medication to manage the disease.

  1. Feline Asthma

    • Feline asthma is a chronic condition developed as a result of a variety of conditions contracted in the lower airway in the lungs of a cat. Signs associated with the disease include lethargy, excessive wheezing or coughing and difficulty when breathing.

    Causes

    • Though the cause of asthma in individual felines is not always identifiable, some common causes are pollen and mold, virus, bacteria, fungus, and heartworm and lungworm parasites. Asthma can also be contracted through inhaled debris from cat litter, second-hand smoke and perfume.

    Medicated Treatment

    • Felines suffering from severe to fatal cases of asthma are often placed on medicated management plans from their veterinarians. Medications include anti-inflammatories through tablets or injections to serve as an aid to open the airways for proper breathing.

    Home Treatment

    • For less severe case, home treatment is an option but should be monitored by a veterinarian. For example, veterinarians can prescribe mucolytics as an addition to the food of asthmatic felines to regulate the production of mucus build-up. Additionally, steps can be taken to avoid exposure to irritants.

    Attacks

    • Asthmatic felines should immediately be taken to their veterinarians or an emergency clinic in the event they exhibit signs of gasping or falling down with their mouth open, showing a noticeably blue tongue. Because of the lack of oxygen, such attacks could prove fatal if not treated immediately.