Bronchial Asthma in Cats

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                      General Information



Asthma is a condition caused by constriction of the air passages

in the lungs.  The exact cause is not known, but asthma probably

is a type of allergic reaction.  Some cases are the result of

inhaling dust from cat-box litter.



Affected cats suffer episodes of extremely difficult breathing

and many have periods of severe coughing.  Asthma attacks usually

recur and are difficult to predict.  Many months may pass between

attacks, or they may occur several times daily.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Mild bronchial asthma is treated medically at home.  If the

    attacks are very mild and infrequent, it may not be treated

    at all.  Severe cases may require in-hospital treatment.

    Laboratory tests and radiographs (x-rays) are often needed

    to rule out other conditions with similar signs.



2.  If an attack occurs, try to relate it to your pet's contact

    with household materials.  If you detect any pattern to the

    attacks, notify the doctor.



3.  Activity:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Allow normal activity.



    ____Restrict activity as follows:





4.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





5.  Give all medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot give the medication.



        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your cat has trouble breathing.



    * Your cat's coughing persists or returns.



    * Your cat is reluctant to eat or seems depressed.



    * Your cat loses weight.



    * There is a change in your cat's general health.