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Section: Overview
Asthma is a lung condition associated with airway obstruction caused by sudden narrowing of the bronchial tubes. In cats, asthma may also be known as "Feline Allergic Asthma", "Feline Allergic Bronchitis", "Feline Lower Airway Disease" or Feline Eosinophilic Bronchitis". Typical symptoms include difficulty breathing (dyspnea), coughing and/or wheezing. These symptoms are caused by the spasmodic constriction of the bronchial tubes and increased production of secretions from the bronchial tree. The cause of asthma in cats is not yet completely understood. Some type of hypersensitivity response is generally blamed; however, an inciting cause is often not identified. The symptoms can range from infrequent to recurrent to constant. In some cats the disease appears to be seasonal, while in others there is recurring and eventually relentless progression of respiratory signs.
Read Dr. Jon's answer to today's question.
Dyspnea is the term used to describe labored and difficult breathing. This breathing trouble can occur either during inspiration or expiration and has many different causes.
Panting is rapid, shallow respirations characterized by open-mouthed breathing, often accompanied by a protrusion of the tongue. It is seen commonly in dogs, and less commonly in cats.
Coughing is a common protective reflex that clears secretions or foreign matter from the airways. Persistant coughing can indicate underlying illness and can hinder the ability to breathe properly.
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