Feline Allergic Bronchitis

Asthma is a relatively common condition among people, affecting approximately 1 in 12 adults and children in the United States¹. Interestingly, dogs and cats can also suffer from asthma. Asthma, also referred to as allergic bronchitis, is triggered by an allergic reaction to particles that are inhaled, stimulating the immune system.

When a cat is exposed to an allergen, the immune cells trigger inflammation (an IgE mediated hypersensitivity), resulting in excess mucous formation, irritation, swelling and constriction of the airways. This limits the ability of the air to move through, causing difficulty breathing. This may look like wheezing, coughing/hacking or even vomiting, rapid breathing and open mouth breathing. Sometimes the signs are subtle, but it can escalate into a crisis. Signs can be chronic, or they may seem to come out of nowhere in an acute attack.

Asthma is diagnosed in cats ranging from 1 to 11 years of age, with the average cat being 4-5 years old. Approximately 1-5% of cats are affected in the U.S. 

Asthma is typically diagnosed based on age of the pet, physical exam, and radiographs. When diagnosing asthma, it’s important to rule out other conditions that can cause similar signs. Parasites, viral or bacterial pneumonia, and heart disease can all mimic asthma. It is also important to note that while radiographs are often the ideal way to diagnose asthma, it has been found that up to 23% of cats with asthma have normal radiographs. When it is suspected that a cat has asthma but has normal radiographs, further testing is warranted. This may include specific blood tests or bronchoscopy to visualize the airways along with microscopic evaluation of the cells.

Treatment for asthma is centered around corticosteroids and bronchodilators. Both of these can come in oral, inhaled or injectable forms. Talk with your veterinarian about the benefits and restrictions each of these medications and forms offer. Other treatments, such as desensitization (i.e. allergy shots), omega 3 fatty acids, and other medications are being researched, but none yet have been conclusively proven to work.

Environmental control is also important. Cats can be triggered by dust, pollen, certain litters, candles, cleaners, air fresheners, molds/mildew, and cigarette smoke. Using air filters/purifiers (HEPA if possible), dustless cat litter, avoiding candles, incense, air fresheners, and not smoking in the house will help reduce the allergen load your cat is exposed to.

Dogs can also suffer from allergic bronchitis, but it is rare. Allergens cause an inflammatory cascade resulting in swelling, increased mucous production, and constriction of the airways. Spasms of the airways do not typically occur in dogs. Dogs mostly have a nonproductive cough that worsens with exercise. Interestingly, wheezing, increased respiratory rate and effort, and respiratory distress are uncommon in dogs compared to cats. Diagnostics and treatments, however, are similar to those in cats.

Allergic bronchitis is often a long-term illness affecting dogs and cats, but minimizing environmental triggers and using a treatment regiment specific to your pet can help them live a long life.

¹Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America 2023