Treatment for Pets with Asthma
If your dog or cat struggles to breathe at times, she may have asthma. Pets with this issue share many similarities with asthmatic people. Just as people need prompt diagnosis and treatment for asthma, so do pets. Sometimes, the symptoms of asthma can overlap with other conditions. To get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, contact us at City Pets Vets® in New York City. We are doing telemedicine consultations at the moment due to the COVD-19.
How Pets Get Asthma
In dogs and cats, asthma causes inflammation in the airways, making breathing difficult. Common allergens such as pesticides, air fresheners, household cleaners, air pollution, and even scented oil diffusers can cause this reaction in dogs and cats.
For some pets, certain conditions can worsen asthma symptoms. These problems include:
- Obesity
- Stress
- Parasites
- Heart problems
- Illness
Symptoms of Asthmatic Pets
Signs of asthma in cats and dogs resemble breathing problems in people. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your pet, contact a vet as soon as possible:
- Dogs that pant longer or more frequently than usual
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness
- Open mouth breathing
- Blue gums
If your pet has blue gums or becomes unresponsive, it is an emergency situation. Get your pet to an emergency animal hospital at once.
How a Vet Diagnoses This Problem
Vets typically diagnosis this condition using x-rays and physical exams. Getting a correct diagnosis as soon as possible allows the vet to start treatment for your pet. Left untreated, asthma in pets can be fatal.
How a Veterinarian Treats Asthmatic Pets
If you have an asthmatic cat or dog, the vet can prescribe medications that can make breathing easier. Currently, there is no cure for asthma in cats and dogs, but medicines to open the airways and avoiding triggers can help your pet to live a long, healthy life.
Your veterinarian can help you find the possible triggers for your pet's condition, so you can avoid exposing your cat or dog to them. For instance, if your pet starts coughing when you use certain household cleaners, you may need to change brands or find an alternative without added fragrances.
Make an Appointment to Find a Solution for Your Pet's Breathing Problems
Contact us at City Pets Vets® today at (212) 581-7387 to consult with one of our veterinarians. We can find the perfect solution to your pet’s asthma problems.