Asthma in Siamese cats

Hairball episodes typically end with the cat producing a hairball (or at least a wet hack). Asthma episodes are dry, repeated coughing or wheezing that doesn't produce anything — the cat hunches with neck extended and gags but nothing comes up. Asthma episodes also often have audible wheeze on the exhale. If 'hairball coughing' happens frequently or your cat doesn't produce hairballs, asthma is more likely. A vet visit and chest x-rays distinguish them.

Yes — inhaled fluticasone is dramatically safer than systemic prednisolone for chronic management. Because the drug acts locally in the airways, blood levels and systemic side effects are minimal. Most veterinary specialists strongly prefer inhaled steroids for long-term asthma control over oral or injectable steroids. The Aerokat spacer mask makes administration feasible at home.

The biggest triggers are cigarette smoke (and secondhand smoke), dust from clay cat litter, scented candles and air fresheners, perfumes and aerosol sprays, household cleaning chemicals, pollen and seasonal allergens, mold, and dust mites. Reducing exposure to these — especially smoking and dusty litter — dramatically improves many cats' symptoms.

Yes — severe acute attacks can be fatal if not treated quickly. Open-mouth breathing, cyanosis (blue gums), and collapse are absolute emergencies. With consistent inhaled steroid therapy and environmental management, most asthmatic cats live full lifespans without life-threatening events. Untreated or undertreated asthma raises the risk of fatal attacks substantially.