My Pet Folio

Feline asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, similar to human asthma. It can cause episodes of wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing that range from mild to life-threatening.

Signs of an Asthma Attack:

Wheezing or coughing
Crouched position with neck extended
Rapid, shallow breathing
Open-mouth breathing
Blue-tinged gums in severe cases

First Aid for an Asthma Attack:

Remain calm to avoid stressing your cat further.
Move your cat to a cool, well-ventilated area away from irritants like smoke or dust.
If your veterinarian has prescribed an inhaler, administer it as directed.
If symptoms are severe or do not improve quickly, seek immediate veterinary care.

Important Warning

A severe asthma attack is a medical emergency. Difficulty breathing can quickly become life-threatening. If your cat is breathing with an open mouth, this is a sign of severe distress.