Asthma Medications for Cats
Asthma is a respiratory disease that causes constriction or narrowing of the airways inside the lungs, causing coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Like humans, cats have the potential to develop asthma, and they might require treatment to maintain their quality of life.
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Function
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Medications for asthma in cats allow air to flow more freely through the lungs.
Types
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Inhaled bronchodilator medications such as albuterol or terbutaline make the cat's airways dilate (expand), allowing more air through the lungs. Inhaled corticosteroids such as fluticasone relieve inflammation, which also produces a more open path for air. In some cases, cats need oral steroids at the beginning of treatment to further relieve inflammation.
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Time Frame
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For the treatment of asthma in cats, veterinarians usually prescribe oral corticosteroids for a maximum of two weeks, reports DrsFosterSmith.com. Other inhaled medications are typically used daily for the rest of the cat's life.
Features
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To administer an inhaled medication to a cat, pet owners utilize a device called AeroKat, which has a mask designed to fit a cat's face. Once the mask is in place, a button releases a dose of pressurized medication.
Risks
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Side effects of inhalant asthma medications used for cats can include increased heart rate, tremors, excitement, restlessness, nervousness, fever, vomiting and dilated pupils. Some cats experience seizures from the medications, especially terbutaline, reports DrsFosterSmith.com.
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