Asthma in Pets

Most people think of asthma as something that can be triggered by pets, but did you know your pets can develop asthma as well? Asthma in dogs and cats is increasing in frequency, though it is still considered a rare disease. Much as in humans, asthma in pets is the result of obstruction of the airways due to bronchial constriction and spasms. Your dog or cat may suddenly begin wheezing, demonstrating signs of shortness of breath, and having violent coughing episodes when exposed to stress or asthma triggers. Asthma in cats is often misdiagnosed as “hairball” problems, but if coughing fits are recurring or severe, it’s a good idea to have your pet checked out by a veterinarian.

Asthma in dogs is usually diagnosed by ruling out other causes, though blood tests are sometimes run to identify asthma in pets. Your veterinarian will likely recommend a chest X-ray to ensure that the symptoms are not due to undiagnosed pneumonia or other respiratory ailments. It has been argued that asthma in dogs is actually the result of allergies; this is as yet unproven, but certain triggers, such as cigarette smoke or strong perfume smells, can often set off an asthma attack. Asthma attacks also occur in the absence of these triggers, however, so the evidence is not clear either way.

Luckily, asthma in dogs is rare, and treatments are available to control it and allow your dog to live a full, active life. Asthma medications are similar in nature to those prescribed for humans (but designed for dog physiology, of course) and include steroid treatments, antihistamines, and bronchodilators. The most severe attacks may require direct injection of epinephrine to relax the bronchial passages and allow your dog to breathe freely. Your veterinarian may also recommend nonprescription treatments in addition to these medications, in order to strengthen your dog’s immune system and ensure fewer asthma attacks.

Asthma in cats is far more common than asthma in dogs, but the symptoms and treatment are very similar. Cats are usually not as willing to submit to examination and treatment, however, and general anesthesia is not recommended in cats with known respiratory problems. This can make identifying asthma in cats more difficult than the same procedures used to identify asthma in dogs. Triggers for asthma in cats are roughly the same as for dogs, so reducing the amount of smoke and chemical exposure for your cat is a good idea. Ironically, cat litter dust can also be a trigger for asthma attacks, so choosing a dustless or hypoallergenic brand of cat litter can be helpful in preventing them.

Asthma in pets can be frightening, especially since your dog or cat can’t tell you what’s wrong. If caught early, however, it’s both treatable and controllable. Your veterinarian can advise you on the right course of treatment for your pet’s asthma.

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