Breathing difficulties in cats

Written by Liz Palika Reviewed by Kristin Westafer, DVM

Overview

Breathing difficulties in cats can be caused by a variety of things, some more serious than others. Cats with a shorter muzzle, such as Persians, often have restricted nasal passages and this can cause breathing problems during exercise or in hot, humid weather. Infectious diseases, such as Feline Infectious Respiratory Complex, can cause breathing problems, as can pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma, heartworm disease, and allergies. Heart problems and cancer can also cause breathing difficulties and certain fungal infections can also cause nasal problems.

Symptoms

Symptoms of breathing problems can include:

Sneezing
Nasal discharge
Wheezing
Labored breathing
Panting
Coughing
Depression
Vomiting
Decreased physical activity

In addition, cats who don't feel good tend to hide; you may find that your cat isn't in his usual day time resting spot but may be in the back of the closet instead.

Robert Goldstein, VMD, author of The Goldstein's Wellness & Longevity Program says, “The feline respiratory virus is very common in kittens and can consist of sneezing, coughing, and a thick discharge from the nose and eyes.” He adds there is also generally a decrease in appetite as cats often will not eat if they cannot smell their food. Many viruses contribute to feline respiratory diseases, including feline herpes virus, feline calicivirus, feline chlamydia, and feline mycoplasma.

Pneumonia is usually caused by a bacterial infection, but can also be caused by fungal organisms. Asthma and bronchitis are fairly common and heartworm disease in the cat has recently been found to cause significant disease of the lungs. Cardiomyopathies (diseases affecting the heart muscle), congenital abnormalities (problems the cat is born with), and cancer can also cause problems breathing because of fluid accumulation around the lungs.

Cause and prevention

Breathing difficulties that are caused by genetics, such as the Persian's convoluted nasal passages, cannot be cured. However, breeders should find a balance between breeding for the appearance of a good Persian and the cat's ability to breathe normally.

Some other breathing difficulties, especially allergies, bronchitis, and asthma, may also be inherited. Ideally, breeders should not breed those cats who show signs of allergies or asthma or other serious health problems.

Cats contract heartworm disease after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Cats who go outdoors are at the most risk; however, mosquitoes are frequently found inside, so indoor cats are also at risk. Cats contract this disease and usually develop chronic respiratory disease and have a hard time breathing. These cats may be confused with those having asthma or bronchitis.

Some diseases are contagious, including many forms of Feline Infectious Respiratory Complex. To prevent any one of these potential problems, your cat should be well vaccinated (talk to your veterinarian) and should not be exposed to strange cats, especially those who may be sneezing, wheezing, or who have a runny nose. If your cat gets sick, separate your cat from its housemates to prevent the infection from spreading to the others.

Treatment

Treatment will vary considerably depending upon the breathing problem itself. For example, allergies will require a different course of treatment than will a bacterial infection. Your veterinarian will examine your cat, perform a test or two depending upon his suspicions, and then will prescribe a course of treatment. Antibiotics would be needed for a bacterial infection and corticosteroids are often the cornerstone of treatment for bronchitis and asthma. Your cat can be given many medications through an inhaler specifically designed for cats to best help his breathing difficulty.

Cats with heart disease or any other disease that severely affects the cat’s ability to breathe will require emergency treatment. This often includes the need for oxygen, medications, removing fluid from the chest, and general supportive care.

The cost will vary, too. The initial exam will range from $20 to $50, and tests may range from $100 to $300 or more. If the cat is having a great deal of trouble breathing, he may need to be hospitalized and this could cost a couple hundred dollars per day.

Recovery

Your cat's recovery will depend upon the cause of the breathing problems. Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding medication. If your cat is adamant about not taking any medication, tell your vet; sometimes a liquid is easier to give than a pill. Special yummy flavors can also be added to liquid medications to increase the palatability and ability to medicate. In any case, give the medication for the full prescribed time for the best results.

Your cat may need to be isolated from other cats for a period of time if they are contagious.

If your cat suffers from allergies, you may wish to talk to your veterinarian about performing allergy tests later, when your cat is feeling better, so you can determine exactly what she is allergic to. This can often help you avoid those triggers and as a result, help your cat remain healthy longer. This usually requires the help of a veterinary dermatologist.