Reduce indoor allergens to help cats with asthma

Photo by Gabriel N. Wardwell

Autumn is a magnificent time of year to reside in the Hudson Valley. However, as the weather starts to cool, it is likely we will start spending a little more time indoors. For pet guardians caring for cats with asthma, that means focusing on reducing indoor allergens.

Holistic veterinarian, Darla Rewers, describes the signs and symptoms of asthma in cats and reviews both conventional and holistic treatment options. This is a serious condition that requires veterinary care. In addition to medical approaches, there are small changes you can make in your home that may help decrease the frequency and severity of symptoms and help keep your pet more comfortable:

• Use dust free (or at least 98% dust free) cat litter. There are many options available. If you see a cloud of dust when you pour litter into the pan, your cat will kick up dust and breathe in those tiny particles every time she scratches in her box.
• Use uncovered litter boxes. This set up will promote fresh air circulation, rather than trap contaminants in a small space. Remember the rule of thumb is one litter box per cat plus one. (Therefore if you have two cats, you need three litter boxes, etc.) Daily scooping and regular cleaning of the box will also help your cat breathe a little easier since there will be less build up of waste.
• However, keep in mind that many household cleaners can be irritating. As much as possible, limit the use of harsh chemicals in your home. Aerosol sprays and other air fresheners may freshen the air for human noses, but not for sensitive feline airways. Even seemingly benign accessories, such as scented candles, can introduce irritants into the air.
• Reduce allergens and irritants in your home’s environment with the use of an air purifier.
• Control dust. Trapping is better than displacing.

Feline allergic bronchitis can mimic other illnesses in your cat, such as feline heartworm disease. If you note a cat coughing, wheezing or panting, see your veterinarian. For an integrative approach to chronic illness, such as that described by Dr. Rewers, search the Veterinary Institute of Integrative Medicine website.