Can Cats Have Asthma?


World Asthma Day is a great time to raise awareness about feline respiratory health. Cats can develop asthma just like humans, and recognising the signs early can make a big difference. Find out how to spot, manage and treat asthma to help your cat breathe easier.

Every year, World Asthma Day raises awareness about respiratory health, but did you know cats can have asthma too? While it might come as a surprise, feline asthma is a real condition that affects a significant number of cats, causing breathing difficulties and other respiratory issues.

At Encore, we want every pet owner to feel confident in caring for their cats’ health. So, here’s everything you need to know about asthma in cats.

Can cats have asthma?

Yes, cats can develop asthma, just like humans. It’s a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the airways, making breathing difficult.

Asthma occurs when a cat’s immune system overreacts to allergens, leading to airway inflammation, swelling, and mucus production. This makes it harder for them to breathe properly and can cause wheezing or coughing episodes.

Fact: Asthma is more common in young to middle-aged cats, and some breeds, like Siamese cats, may be more prone to it.

What are the signs & symptoms of asthma in cats?

Symptoms of feline asthma can range from mild to severe, and some may be mistaken for other respiratory conditions. Common signs include:

  • Frequent coughing or hacking (often mistaken for hairballs)
  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing (especially after exercise)
  • Open-mouth breathing or panting (a serious warning sign)
  • Lethargy or reluctance to play
  • Sudden episodes of laboured breathing

Top tip: If your cat shows any of these symptoms, speak to your vet as soon as possible. Asthma can be managed, but severe cases may need emergency care.

What causes asthma in cats?

Asthma in cats is often triggered by environmental irritants and allergens, including:

  • Pollen, mold spores and house dust mites
  • Cigarette smoke
  • Household cleaning products
  • Scented candles & air fresheners
  • Dusty cat litter

Top tip: Reducing exposure to allergens can help prevent flare-ups and keep your cat breathing easier.

How is feline asthma diagnosed & treated?

If you suspect your cat has asthma, your vet will likely perform:

  • X-rays and endoscopy (passing a camera into the lungs) – to check for visible signs of airway inflammation.
  • Lower airway washes (collecting samples of respiratory cells) – to check for signs of inflammation under the microscope.
  • Blood tests – To rule out infections.
  • Allergy testing – To identify triggers.

Treatment for feline asthma

  • Inhalers or steroids – to reduce inflammation and open airways.
  • Allergen management – keeping the home dust-free.
  • Irritant avoidance – review cat litter and cleaning products used in your home
  • Weight management – maintaining a healthy weight can help ease breathing difficulties.
Share this article

#LoveWhatsInside