How To Diagnose and Treat Feline Bronchitis

Cats can develop bronchitis at any age, and it can be caused by an acute infection or a chronic allergic response.If your cat has a persistent cough, difficulty breathing, or a high temperature, you should report it to the vet.The vet can use blood tests and other techniques to make a diagnosis.An antibiotic or other appropriate medication will be prescribed by them.Anti-Inflammatory drugs are likely to be used to treat chronic bronchitis.If your cat has an allergy, you will need to take steps to reduce its exposure to the environment.

Step 1: A persistent cough can be seen over a period of days or weeks.

It might be hard to distinguish a persistent cough from normal hairballs.If your cat coughs frequently, you should notice.As you make your observations, look for potential environmental causes, such as: Pollen conditions Whether anyone is smoking nearby Any perfume, cologne, or air freshener you've usedDust inside and outside of the house Contact with other cats with Viruses

Step 2: If you have difficulty breathing, listen for wheezing.

Look for signs of difficult breathing when your cat coughs.You can hear wheezing or crackling sounds if you hold your ear near the chest and mouth.If its breathing seems labored or if it consistently breathes through its mouth, take notice.

Step 3: Check for symptoms of bronchitis.

Take your cat's temperature if you have a pet thermometer.A high temperature of 103.5 degrees Fahrenheit (39.7 degrees Celsius) is a sign of a sick person.Loss of appetite and general stress are some of the symptoms of bronchitis.The nose, gums, and lips have a bluish tint.Respiratory difficulty causes a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream.Take your cat to the vet if you notice any of these symptoms.Your cat could experience respiratory failure if the symptoms get worse.

Step 4: Inform the vet of your cat's symptoms.

If you see persistent coughing or other symptoms, call the vet.To make an accurate diagnosis, you need to report your cat's symptoms to the vet.Tell the vet what symptoms you have observed and how long it has been since you noticed them.Let the vet know if the person came on suddenly or if they are related to an allergy.

Step 5: Have your cat's blood tested.

The vet will need to screen your cat's blood in addition to evaluating the symptoms and giving it an initial physical exam.Potential underlying conditions will be tested for, including feline immunodeficiency virus.The condition of the cat's organs can be evaluated with blood tests.The tests will help the vet better understand your cat's overall health.

Step 6: The cat should be given an x-ray.

An x-ray or bronchoscopy is a test the vet will most likely recommend.A bronchoscopy uses a small camera to examine lung tissue.A culture or sample of respiratory tissue can be used to make a diagnosis.Your vet will need to eliminate a number of potential causes, like infections and parasites.The most effective ways of determining the best treatment plan are the following.

Step 7: Your cat should be treated for bronchitis.

Acute bronchitis can be caused by a variety of infections.The appropriate antibiotics will be suggested by your cat's vet.Depending on the results of the culture and scans, the vet will likely prescribe an oral antibiotic or antifungal medication.It's important to administer any medication as instructed.

Step 8: Discuss the use of bronchodilators with the vet.

If your vet doesn't rule out parasites or infections, they will most likely prescribe a corticosteroid, which acts as an anti- inflammatory.They might suggest a bronchodilator to open the airways.Both of these medications are available in a variety of forms.It's a good idea to talk to your vet about the best option for your cat.bronchodilators are rarely prescribed on their own.

Step 9: Treat against specific allergens with an air purifier.

Corticosteroids and bronchodilators are the most common treatment methods, but your cat's vet might also recommend other options.Experimental desensitization therapies are available if they can identify a particular allergy.If you want to eliminate allergens from your home, the vet suggests you invest in an air purification device.

Step 10: Reduce the exposure of your cat.

If your cat is diagnosed with chronic bronchitis, you should reduce its exposure to any allergens that could cause respiratory problems.Don't smoke around your cat and keep it indoors.You should eliminate any conditions that make symptoms worse.If you observe your cat coughing or wheezing in a certain room of the house, restrict its access to that room.If you notice that a perfume or air freshener causes bronchitis, stop using it.It is possible that cat litter can be atrigger.If you think the problem is caused by the cat's litter, buy another brand.

Step 11: Help your cat lose weight.

If you want your overweight cat to lose weight, you should help it.Scheduled feedings are the best way to free-feed your cat.If you give your cat treats, make sure they are low in calories.Ask the vet if they have any more weight loss recommendations.The cat may need ongoing treatment for their bronchitis since they are obese.