Information on feline asthma
The following information on feline asthma might help you comprehend how your cat may experience breathing difficulties due to this human ailment.
People can develop asthma, just like cats can. If you are aware of the symptoms of this chronic condition and the treatments that are available, you can give your asthmatic cat the highest quality of life possible. Understand more about the illness in cats by reading on to learn how to recognize signs and provide your pet early care if they appear.
Explain asthma
The term feline bronchial illness is another term for asthma. It is an inflammatory condition that affects the feline bronchi, and the inflammation itself is what makes it so dangerous since it obstructs airflow, causes fluid to build up, and thickens the mucous glands that border the airways.
What Causes Asthma in Humans?
A particular class of allergens causes inflammation associated with asthma. For example, airborne pollen is a common trigger, but continuous contact to dust and mold can also result in asthma, especially since cats spend a lot of time close to the ground, where these allergens can collect. Other factors can include chemical sensitivity to the environment or to household goods or food allergies.
What asthma symptoms and indicators are there?
Breathing issues, coughing, wheezing, purplish or bluish gums, a lack of mobility, or hiding behavior that is not typical for your cat are all indications of asthma.
If your cat exhibits any asthma symptoms, you should take him to the clinic right away. Many illnesses, such as heartworm or other respiratory problems, have signs that match those of other diseases. A certified diagnosis from your veterinarian will therefore spare you from needless worry and ensure that the best remedies are used to alleviate your cat’s symptoms and avoid consequences.
Furthermore, it’s important to keep in mind that secondary infections, such as pneumonia, occur 24 to 42% of felines with asthma, so be alert for any new symptoms that could point to these conditions.
What medical options are there?
Corticosteroid and antihistamine medicines are routinely advised by traditional veterinarians. Additionally, bronchodilators are recommended.
In most cases, corticosteroids are given orally, intravenously, or both. Injections that last a long time or act quickly are both possibilities. However, there are side effects associated with these treatments that could materialize now or in the future, some of which could be quite significant. You may choose to employ short-expression, fast-acting corticosteroids in light of this. Your veterinarian can advise you on the best course of action for your cat.
In order to increase the possibility that the treatments will be effective, a holistic veterinarian may also consider employing herbs and homeopathic remedies, which are chosen based on the particular needs and general constitution of your cat. Herbal remedies include boswellia, coltsfoot, cat’s claw, feverfew, ephedra, German chamomile, garlic, ginkgo biloba, lobelia, turmeric, and licorice. Altering your cat’s food may also be advantageous. Additional natural treatments include taking supplements of omega-3 fatty acids and specific vitamins and minerals with high antioxidant content.
Minimizing triggers is also a key component in helpwithing to prevent asthma attacks if your cat has been diagnosed with this condition:
- Do not smoke in your home.
- Remove dust and make sure there isn’t any mold growing anywhere in your home.
- Reduce or eliminate the use of artificial fragrances, from perfumes to air fresheners and hatmosphere spray.
In the event your pet is suffering with an asthma attack that he has never had before, or you are unable to use the treatment options provided by your vet to control an attack, get your dog to the vet right away. On the way to your vet’s office, keep your pet as calm as possible, placing him in a carrier while ensuring his breathing is not restricted at all. Human inhalers should never ever be used on your cat, but if your vet prescribed a feline-specific inhaled medication, use it right away.
