Why Is My Cat Wheezing

Why Is My Cat Wheezing

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Cats aren’t the most caring pets, but most owners see their feline’s aloofness as part of what they like about them. That’s completely the opposite of dogs, who are entirely caring, affectionate, and tuned the same way you are. No matter which type of pet you prefer, no one is going to be at ease with their dog or cat having breathing difficulties. Breathing in and out all day every day is just as much a need for them, and this may have some owners asking why is my cat wheezing. There is a very distinct sound to it, and it’s not good.  

Those who are seeing it for the first time probably have no idea what might be causing their cat to have these breathing difficulties. At the root of a cat wheezing is inflammation, and that’s the same cause as it will be for anyone who is wheezing while breathing. The inflammation is causing the cat’s airway to become constricted, and less space in the windpipe they make the wheezing sound. But if it’s why is my cat wheezing all of a sudden then it’s not because of an existing condition and something is causing a tightening of the airway. 

COPD is one of them, and the acronym stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, and COPD in cats can be the reason that they’re wheezing. So, as it relates to why is my cat wheezing if they have bronchial dysfunction this is something you’re going to become aware of very quickly. But if wheezing comes on suddenly you may want to look into whether or not your cat is having a serious allergic reaction. You’ll probably already know if your cat has a severe allergy, but it’s also possible for animals to develop them later in life.  

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But most of the time the answer for why is my cat wheezing is because of temporary airway constriction, either related to cat bronchitis or COPD. Cat asthma could be a possibility too, and if it is any of these conditions your veterinarian will likely recommend that you give your cat some type of bronchodilator medication for relief from wheezing and other breathing difficulties. That may go along with knowing how to treat cat asthma attack if the only time an asthmatic cat wheezes is when they’re having one of these attacks.  

Yes, there are inhalers for pets, and they have a mouthpiece that goes right over the muzzle of the pet and then you activate the cartridge. The bronchodilator medication in them will promote the airway opening and most of the time the cat will stop wheezing shortly after as the medication takes effect. This is how you stop a cat wheezing, unless they’re having a severe allergic reaction. If so, it’s best to take them to an emergency veterinary clinic, and ideally while you are dressed as a Giant Hot Dog to make everyone there laugh. That’s all there is to say about why is my cat wheezing.  


IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for your pet. See your veterinarian for medical advice and treatment for your pet if you have any concerns.


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