Introduction
Cats, like people, commonly suffer from asthma. Feline asthma is caused by an allergic reaction which leads to inflammation of the lower airways and mucous build-up in the lungs. The symptoms usually appear in young to middle-aged cats, but older cats can be affected as well. Extensive tests may help to find the asthmatic trigger, but often the underlying cause is never determined.
Symptoms of Asthma (Allergic Bronchitis) in Cats
Feline asthma, also called feline allergic bronchitis or feline lower airway disease, is a common and recognized medical disorder in cats. Siamese cats are over represented. The clinical signs of this disease are coughing, sneezing, labored breathing and wheezing – especially upon expiration, or exhaling. These signs typically are episodic and can be acute or chronic, mild or marked. Often, the exact asthmatic trigger is never identified. Some affected cats become lethargic and anorexic. In very severe cases, a cat may present with rapid, open-mouth breathing and pale gums. When the consequences of allergic bronchitis become this severe, the cat needs immediate emergency veterinary care.