Feline asthma is a common problem for indoor and outdoor cats. Just like their human counterparts, when a cat has asthma, it manifests itself in obvious problems with breathing. While feline asthma is not serious, it can cause discomfort and rarely death. Fortunately, it is easily treatable once the symptoms have been recognized.
Instructions
Listen to the cat's coughing. To begin, it is never normal for a cat to cough. Many owners attribute this to hairballs. However, it may also be a sign that your cat is suffering from feline asthma. If the cough sounds dry and hacking, you may want to pay closer attention to the animal.
Watch your cat as it goes through its normal daily routine. Cats will breathe through their noses when they are healthy. However, a feline asthma sufferer will attempt to get as much air to the lungs as possible. To do this your cat may hang its mouth open constantly in an attempt to breathe.
Place your ear on your cat̵7;s side while it is at rest. Doctors will use a stethoscope, but this is an easy replacement for average pet owners. Listen for cracking and whistling sounds while the cat is trying to breathe. These sounds are not normal and may be a sign of feline asthma.
Pay attention while the cat is coughing. If there is a discharge of a hairball, chances are the problem is not asthma. However, if your cat appears to be gagging, choking and finishing by swallowing during a coughing jag, you should be suspicious that it has asthma.
Monitor your cat while it plays. If you note a difficulty breathing or lack of regular energy, it may be a case of asthma.