Asthma and Bronchitis in Cats

Cats can suffer terribly from asthma and bronchitis. Being able to spot symptoms quickly is crucial to their treatment and recovery. Also, it will help you to know what you can do differently around your house to make your cat's life as pleasant and healthy as possible. The following is only a brief overview and is not meant to substitute for your veterinarian's medical advice.

Symptoms of your cat having asthma or bronchitis include coughing, sneezing and wheezing. If your cat seems to be laboring while breathing, then it is possible that they are having an allergic reaction to something or are suffering from a respiratory infection. This could be a chronic condition or a temporary response to a stimulant, so consult your veterinarian at first sight of symptoms.

Asthma in cats is often caused by an allergen in their environment. Stimulants in the air can narrow their airways, causing the coughing, wheezing, and sneezing. It is good to assess your house's environment and figure out what could be causing the asthma or bronchitis. This could be different for every cat, but it is best to start with the obvious: air fresheners, tobacco smoke, and dust.

Keeping a clean house is one of the best preventatives of allergic reactions for everyone, your cat included. Elimination processes may take a bit long. In the meantime, it is best to have a doctor treat your cat. A doctor may want to give your cat X-rays and analyze the mucous. They will probably prescribe a regular medication, too, which you should faithfully administer as directed.

Your cat may suffer from asthma and allergies for his entire life. It is not a short-term illness to be cured with medicine. However, with a proper system of elimination and medical treatment, you can ease their suffering as much as possible. As always, make sure your cat gets to all of his regular checkups, as preventative medicine is the best kind.