Bronchitis in Cats: An Overview
Dog Breeds
Bronchitis in cats is a condition that develops when the bronchial airways, known as bronchi, become irritated and inflamed. There are a number of conditions that can cause bronchitis in cats, and the main symptom of feline bronchitis is coughing.
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Definition of Feline Bronchitis
Bronchitis refers to the inflammation and irritation of one or more of the large upper airways, known as bronchi, and sometimes the trachea, which is commonly called the “wind pipe.” Bronchitis in cats can be acute or chronic in nature.
How Bronchitis Affects Cats
Coughing is the hallmark of bronchitis in cats. Affected cats usually have a dry, hacking and gagging cough which owners often misinterpret as attempts at vomiting or expelling hairballs. The cough can progressively become wet and productive. Cats with bronchitis tend to hunch down and stretch out their necks when they cough. Extreme coughing episodes can be associated with retching, vomiting and sneezing. Many cats with bronchial disease are lethargic and have decreased activity levels. Signs of feline bronchitis can also include sneezing, runny nose, lack of appetite, lethargy, weight loss, fever and ocular discharge.
Causes of Bronchitis in Cats
Cats typically develop bronchitis due to hypersensitivity reactions, viruses, bacteria or parasites, although the precise causes are not well understood in cats. Whatever the underlying cause, the tissues lining the throat, trachea and bronchi become irritated and inflamed. Cats cough in an attempt to expel the irritant from the airways, but this normally leads to even more bronchial irritation. The condition gradually worsens if the underlying cause of the bronchitis is not addressed.
Preventing Bronchitis in Cats
The best way to prevent feline bronchitis is to avoid contact with the predisposing allergens or microorganisms.
Special Notes
When a cat develops bronchitis, the only way to resolve the condition is to determine and address the underlying cause. Any number of diagnostic tools can be used in this effort, and there are a number of therapies that can help manage the symptoms of bronchitis. Bronchitis can become life threatening if untreated. Continual coughing can cause permanent damage to upper airway tissues. Excessive coughing may also interfere with a cat’s ability to eat properly. Bronchitis can damage a cat’s immune system over time and predispose the animal to secondary bacterial and viral infections. Successful treatments for bronchitis are possible if the cause of the bronchitis is directly addressed.
Causes of Bronchitis in Cats