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Asthma is an inflammatory disease of the lungs which is thought to occur because of an allergic response. Asthmatic felines may show symptoms of wheezing and coughing as the inflammation causes a buildup of lung secretions in the airways. Diagnosing asthma can be difficult as the symptoms can be caused by other problems. Because of this, diagnosis often involves a process of elimination.
Felines who are diagnosed with asthma are often treated with corticosteroids. If you suspect that your cat may have asthma, contact your veterinarian.
Asthma may be described as a chronic respiratory disease characterized by sudden labored breathing, chest constriction, coughing, and wheezing that occurs from constriction of the lung airways either spontaneously or in response to stimuli that normally should not cause a reaction. Effected individuals can also experience an inability to draw a deep breath and intolerance to exercise.
An asthmatic cat may breathe with her mouth open, have labored breath, breathe rapidly and shallowly, or not purr. You may also notice that the abdomen appears to be working hard to push air out. Diagnosing asthma in felines can be difficult and it is often over-diagnosed. Diagnosis typically involves chest radiographs, though a tracheal wash or bronchoscopy may also be performed. There are several treatment options, including the use of corticosteroids, airway dilators, antihistamines, and other medications like cyproheptadine, amflurkast or cyclosporine. An acute asthmatic attack can occur at anytime and may even be life-threatening. Small doses of epinephrine may be used in emergency situations.
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