Below you’ll find what causes asthma in cats, how to spot the signs, and what you can do to support your cat’s respiratory health.

What Causes Asthma in Cats?

Feline asthma is caused by inflammation of the airways — the small passages that carry air in and out of your cat’s lungs. When these airways become swollen or constricted, airflow is reduced and coughing or wheezing can occur.

Common asthma triggers include:

• Dust and allergens: Dust mites, mould, or pollen can irritate the airways.
• Strong scents: Perfumes, air fresheners, and cleaning sprays are frequent culprits.
• Tobacco smoke: Even second-hand smoke can harm feline lungs.
• Litter dust: Some clumping or scented litters release fine particles that can provoke flare-ups.
• Household chemicals: Aerosol sprays and scented candles may worsen symptoms.
• Parasites: In rare cases, lungworms can cause similar respiratory inflammation.

Certain breeds, such as Siamese and Oriental cats, may be more prone due to genetic predisposition.

Recognising the Symptoms

Cat asthma is sometimes mistaken for hairballs or a mild respiratory infection, but the pattern and signs are distinct. Watch for:

• Persistent coughing or “dry heaving” without producing hairballs
• Wheezing or raspy breathing, especially after exercise or excitement
• Rapid or laboured breathing
• Lethargy and reluctance to play
• Blue-tinged gums or tongue — a sign of low oxygen (seek immediate vet care)
• Hunched posture with elbows spread apart while breathing

If your cat shows these symptoms regularly, schedule a veterinary visit.

How Vets Diagnose Cat Asthma

Diagnosing asthma means ruling out other issues such as infections or heart disease. Your vet may use:

• Chest X-rays to examine lung patterns
• Blood tests to check for inflammation
• Bronchoscopy (a small camera inserted into the airway)
• Allergy testing to identify environmental triggers

Once confirmed, asthma is typically managed with medication and home adjustments.

Treatment Options for Cat Asthma

There’s no cure for asthma, but the right plan can control symptoms and improve quality of life:

• Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and help prevent flare-ups.
• Bronchodilators: Relax airway muscles to make breathing easier.
• Inhalers for cats: Specially designed chambers deliver medication directly to the lungs with fewer systemic side effects.

Your vet will tailor the protocol to your cat’s needs. Regular check-ups are essential for long-term control.

Home Care: How to Reduce Asthma Triggers

Support your asthmatic cat by creating a cleaner, low-irritant environment:

1. Choose the Right Litter

Avoid dusty or heavily scented litters that can irritate the airways. Opt for low-dust, unscented silica litter such as Pacha Litter, which helps control odours naturally without releasing fine particles into the air.

2. Keep the Air Clean

• Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to capture dust and allergens.
• Avoid smoking indoors or using strong fragrances.
• Wash bedding, curtains, and rugs routinely to reduce dust build-up.

3. Vacuum and Dust Regularly

• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.
• Dust with damp cloths to avoid stirring up particles.

4. Manage Temperature & Humidity

• Maintain a stable indoor climate; avoid sudden temperature swings.
• Very cold or very humid air can aggravate asthma — aim for balance.

5. Encourage Gentle Exercise

• Moderate play helps overall respiratory health.
• Avoid overexertion during or immediately after a flare-up.

When to See the Vet Urgently

Severe asthma attacks are a medical emergency. Contact your vet immediately if your cat:

• Struggles to breathe or breathes with an open mouth
• Stops eating or drinking
• Appears weak or collapses
• Shows blue or grey gums (oxygen deprivation)

Prompt treatment can be life-saving during a serious episode.

Living Comfortably with an Asthmatic Cat

With attentive care, most asthmatic cats live long, active, happy lives. Observe behaviour changes, keep the home environment clean, and stay consistent with medication.

A dust-free environment — together with a clean litter box filled with Pacha Litter — can significantly reduce respiratory irritants and help your cat breathe more comfortably every day.

Final Thoughts

Cat asthma may sound daunting, but it’s highly manageable with awareness and proactive care. By learning the triggers, working closely with your vet, and keeping your home clean and calm, you can help your cat enjoy a full, healthy life — one breath at a time.

For the best air quality around the litter box, choose Pacha Litter — designed to keep dust low, neutralise odours, and help cats breathe easy.