Respiratory distress, often called dyspnea, is labored, difficult breathing or shortness of breath that can occur at any time during a cat's breathing process, during inspiration (breathing in) or expiration (breathing out).
When your cat has trouble breathing, he may not be able to get enough oxygen to his tissues. Additionally, if he has heart failure, he may not be able to pump sufficient blood to his muscles and other tissues. Dyspnea is often associated with accumulation of fluid (edema) in the lungs or the chest cavity (pleural effusion). This fluid can lead to shortness of breath and coughing.
Below is an overview of information on Dyspnea in Cats followed by detailed information on the causes, testing and treatment of this condition.
Causes of Dyspnea in Cats
Heart disease or heart failure
Lung disease
Tumors or cancer in the lung or which press on the airway
Infections such as pneumonia)
Obstructions that occlude the airway
Trauma
Bleeding into the lungs or chest
Abnormal fluid accumulation in/or around the lungs from various causes including heart and lung disease
Intact (non-spayed) female cats are predisposed to breast cancer (metastatic mammary carcinoma). Younger animals are more likely to develop lung infections.
What to Watch For
Coughing
Shortness of breath
Difficulty breathing
Weight loss
Fatigue
Diagnosis of Dyspnea (Trouble Breathing) in Cats
Diagnostic tests are needed to determine why your cat is having trouble breathing. Tests that may be performed include:
A complete medical history and physical examination with emphasis on stethoscope examination (auscultation) of the heart and lungs
A chest radiograph (X-ray)
Measurement of blood pressure
An electrocardiogram (EKG)
Ultrasound examination of the heart (echocardiogram)
Laboratory (blood) tests
Treatment of Dyspnea in Cats
The treatment for dyspnea in cats depends upon the underlying cause. Often, treatment is initiated to help stabilize your pet and allow him to breath easier while tests are being performed to determine the underlying cause. This treatment may include:
Hospitalization with administration of oxygen
Minimizing stress
Thoracentesis, which is drainage of fluid that has accumulated around the lungs (pleural effusion) with a needle
Diuretics. A "water-pill" such as the drug furosemide (Lasix®) or spironolactone may be administered or prescribed
Combination drug therapy. If heart failure is suspected, treatment with oxygen, a diuretic such as Lasix, and nitroglycerine ointment is often initiated
The drug digoxin (Lanoxin®, Cardoxin®) may be prescribed in some situations
Home Care
Dyspnea is usually an emergency. See your veterinarian immediately. When you first note that your cat is having trouble breathing, note his general activity, exercise capacity and interest in the family activities. Keep a record of your cat's appetite, ability to breathe comfortably (or not), and note the presence of any symptoms such as coughing or severe tiring.
Optimal treatment for dyspnea requires a combination of home and professional veterinary care. Follow-up can be critical and may include the following:
Never withhold water, even if your cat urinates more than normal, unless specifically instructed to do so.
Administer all veterinary prescribed medication as directed and be certain to alert your veterinarian if you are experiencing problems treating your cat.
Schedule regular examinations with your veterinarian. This will include an interview regarding your pet's clinical symptoms and quality of life. Be prepared to answer questions about your pet's activity, appetite, ability to sleep comfortably, breathing rate and effort, coughing, exercise tolerance and overall quality of life.
Bring your medications with you to show your veterinarian. Dosing is critical for heart medication. If your pet is on digoxin, your veterinarian may want to measure levels of that drug in the blood to make sure that the appropriate amount is being administered.
Treatment for dyspnea may involve providing oxygen and cage rest.
