| ASTHMA AND BRONCHITIS Obstructive and allergic lung diseases affect many cats and are sometimes called "asthma," "bronchitis," or "bronchial asthma." Unfortunately, these diseases are not easily classified and probably represent a variety of lung disorders. They do share a common finding of "hyper-responsive" (over- reactive) airways. When the airway of the cat is sensitive to certain stimuli, exposure to these agents leads to narrowing of the airways. The inciting agents are usually direct irritants to the airways or things which provoke an allergic response in the respiratory tract. Regardless of the cause, the end-result is the same: muscle spasms in the bronchi (breathing tubes), buildup of mucus, and accumulation of cellular material. In particular, the inability to clear the bronchi of this material leaves the cat susceptible to secondary infections. The cat is most stressed during the period of expiration (forcing air out of the lungs). The difficulty with expiration is typical with obstructive disease of the lung. Air may become effectively trapped in the lungs, causing them to overinflate. In some cases, this trapping leads to development of emphysema in the cat. Are some cats more likely to get asthma? Obstructive lung disease is most common in cats from two to eight years of age. The Siamese breed seems more susceptible. Also, some reports indicate that it is more common in female cats. What are the clinical signs? Coughing and respiratory distress are the most commonly reported signs with obstructive lung disease. Coughing is a significant finding since there are relatively few causes of cough in the cat. Also, many cats assume a squatting position with the neck extending during these coughing episodes. Wheezing is easily heard with the stethoscope and is sometimes so loud that it can be heard by the owners. Occasionally, sneezing and vomiting are noted. What causes asthma? As mentioned above, this group of diseases is characterized by hyper-responsive airways. The small breathing tubes (bronchi and bronchioles) can react to a number of stimuli, such as: 1. Inhaled debris or irritants - dust from cat litter, cigarette smoke, perfume or hairspray, carpet fresheners, and perfumes in laundry detergent 2. Pollens or mold 3. Infectious agents - viruses, bacteria 4. Parasites - heartworms, lungworms How is asthma treated? Successful management of allergic lung disease employs several therapies. 1. Any factors known to trigger or aggravate breathing problems should be avoided. In some cases, this may mean trying different brands of cat litter, eliminating cigarette smoke from the home, etc. The previous list (see "Causes") details some factors which should be considered. It is important to pay close attention to environmental factors which may aggravate the condition. 2. Bronchodilators. These drugs are used to open up the airway and allow the cat to move air more freely. They should be used faithfully and as directed to obtain maximum effect. 3. Corticosteroids. Steroids have a beneficial effect on decreasing inflammation, dilating the airway, and decreasing mucus production. In many cats, they are given daily. When the cat`s temperament is a concern, long- acting injections can be given as an alternative to pills. These drugs have potential for some side-effects and should not be withdrawn abruptly. 4. Emergency treatment may employ bronchodilators, oxygen, rapid-acting glucocorticoids, and epinephrine. If your cat has heart disease, the attending veterinarian should be advised since epinephrine is best avoided. Will my cat recover? Cats with obstructive lung disease are usually manageable. Sometimes "cure" may be achieved if a specific underlying cause can be identified and treated. Extreme respiratory distress constitutes an emergency and the cat should receive immediate attention. INSTRUCTIONS 1) Begin oral corticosteroids. The specific drug being dispensed for your cat is labeled on the bottle. Give the tablets as directed. Report any increase in water consumption to us at once. 2) In the event your cat has a respiratory emergency, seek the assistance of a veterinarian immediately. |
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