Why Is My Cat Wheezing? Causes and Remedies Explained

If your cat is showing signs of wheezing or heavy breathing, there are many things that could be causing it, from allergies and asthma to more serious issues like heartworm or lung diseases. Infections, airway obstructions, and other underlying issues can all lead to respiratory problems in cats - so it's important to keep an eye on your cat's symptoms and work with a vet to make sure they get the care they need.

In this evidence-based look at cat respiratory issues, we'll cover research from veterinarians that goes into the physiological causes of cat wheezing. From looking at environmental causes like allergens to genetic causes, this well-rounded view will give you a full picture of what could be going on. With this information, you'll be able to work to figure out what's causing your cat's symptoms, find ways to help them feel better, and make sure they're as healthy as possible.

Signs of Severe Wheezing and When to Get Help Right Away

While mild wheezing in cats may not always be an emergency, there are some symptoms that should send you and your pet to the vet immediately. According to The Village Vets, severe asthma attacks can be identified by a respiratory rate of over 40 breaths per minute, blue gums, lethargy, and coughing up mucus. Rover.com notes that if your cat is wheezing and has trouble breathing, is vomiting, is breathing with their mouth open, or has a hacking cough, you should take them to the vet right away.

If you think your cat has something stuck in their throat, it's a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary care to remove the object, according to The Village Vets. Even for cats with pre-existing respiratory issues like asthma or allergies, any new or worsening wheezing should be checked out by a vet, says Blue Cross.

Knowing these signs and getting help right away can help you manage your cat's breathing problems and avoid life-threatening issues. Many cats with wheezing can be helped with the right care and monitoring. This naturally brings us to the topic of other home treatments that may help.

Natural Remedies and At-Home Treatments for Wheezing Cats

Although veterinary care is necessary to treat wheezing and other respiratory symptoms in cats, there are some natural remedies that can help provide additional relief. For example, Prana Pets explains that an anti-inflammatory diet that includes freeze-dried krill, oily fish, and seaweed can help with respiratory healing and immune system support. In addition, holistic treatments like stress relief and reducing exposure to environmental toxins such as smoke, cleaning products, and pollen can be helpful, according to NHV Natural Pet Products.

There are also some natural supplements that can help with allergy and asthma symptoms in cats. For example, Ask Ariel offers the Cat Asthma Kit, which includes liquid remedies for infection and inflammation control as well as a probiotic to support the immune system. Meanwhile, HolistaPet recommends coltsfoot, licorice, and ginger to help with cough control and inflammation reduction.

Although these natural remedies may help with some symptoms, it’s important to note that they should never be used in place of professional veterinary treatment for wheezing and other breathing problems in cats. Instead, working with a vet to come up with a treatment plan that includes natural remedies and other treatments can help ensure that your cat’s respiratory issues are well-managed and that they are as healthy and happy as possible.

Medical Treatments for Feline Asthma and Bronchitis

Accurate diagnosis by a veterinarian is essential to determine the best course of treatment for feline asthma and bronchitis, according to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Treatment options include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and bronchodilators to open airways, according to VCA Animal Hospitals.

Inhaled medications are often used instead of oral medications because they can be delivered directly to the respiratory system, according to VCA Animal Hospitals. In severe cases, oxygen therapy, sedation, and other interventions may be necessary to manage asthma attacks, according to Today's Veterinary Practice.

Long-term treatment may include environmental changes, weight management, and parasite control, according to VCA Animal Hospitals. With the help of a veterinarian, many cats with asthma and bronchitis can be successfully treated and their symptoms managed to improve their quality of life.

Common Triggers and Risk Factors of Cat Wheezing

As reported by Clemmons Vet, common causes of cat wheezing include environmental allergens, smoke, dust, and chemicals. Some cat breeds, including Siamese and Russian Blue, may be genetically predisposed to respiratory problems, according to West Park Animal Hospital.

Cat obesity can also lead to breathing problems because of the pressure the extra weight puts on the respiratory system, says West Loop Veterinary Care. In addition, parasitic infections like heartworms and lungworms can lead to wheezing and lung damage, according to Trudell Animal Health.

Knowing and addressing these potential causes is important for preventing and reducing wheezing in cats. By learning about the causes and risk factors, cat owners can be more proactive in helping to maintain their cat's respiratory health and overall health.

How to Keep Your Cat's Lungs Healthy

Asthma is the most common cause of wheezing in cats, and it is an allergic condition caused by inhaled allergens that cause the airways to become inflamed and constricted, according to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Clinical signs of asthma in cats include difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, coughing, and wheezing, and these symptoms can be mild or severe and occur either spontaneously or in response to a specific trigger.

Feline asthma is diagnosed based on a cat's clinical signs, history, and the results of imaging and airway secretion tests, according to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Treatment for feline asthma typically involves the use of corticosteroids to reduce airway inflammation and bronchodilators to open the airways, according to VCA Animal Hospitals.

Although asthma is a progressive disease, Catster notes that many cats with respiratory conditions can be successfully managed and enjoy a good quality of life with the right medications and regular check-ups. That said, it's important to make sure your cat sees a vet as soon as possible since if left untreated, feline asthma can cause irreversible lung damage and increasingly severe and frequent episodes of asthma.

Concluding Insights: Unraveling Cat Wheezing Causes and Solutions

Wheezing is a symptom of several different conditions in cats, some of which are more serious than others. To make sure your cat gets the treatment and care they need, it's important to get to the bottom of what's causing your cat to wheeze.

While home remedies can help alleviate your cat's symptoms, they should never be used as a substitute for professional veterinary care. Instead, make sure to monitor your cat's breathing and seek medical attention at the first sign of wheezing. With the right treatment and care plan, many cats with respiratory conditions can go on to live healthy and happy lives.