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Feline Asthma
by Jennifer Reding
Feline asthma is an immune-mediated disease characterized by symptoms
ranging from infrequent, hairball-like coughing, to sudden onsets of
respiratory distress (which veterinarians call "acute dyspnea").
Episodes are usually triggered by an allergen or stress, and can be
accompanied/followed by vomiting, sneezing, or even wheezing like a human
allergy sufferer. Respiratory signs may be slow and deliberate (more abdominal
breathing), to fast and labored.
True asthma, as opposed to bronchitis, normally responds quickly to a
combination of bronchodilators, oxygen therapy, and fast acting steroids.
Diagnosis is usually confirmed with an xray, and possibly a slide cytology of
the airway.
Because asthma can mimic other feline diseases (bronchitis, heart disease,
pneumonia), a veterinary diagnosis assisted by an xray is essential. In many
ways, feline asthma is very similar to human asthma, although our
understanding of the causes of clinical feline asthma has been growing in
recent years.
Long-term treatment of asthma usually includes short or long- term use of
corticosteroids (such as prednisone), and bronchodilators (such as terbutaline
or aminophyline). While severe "episodes" of dyspnea can occur, the
long- term prognosis for this disease is generally excellent. If diagnosed
early, any structural changes to the lungs and airway are usually reversible,
and damage can be minimized.
Recent investigation into alternative treatments for asthma include
injectable steroids (for that patient that simply can't be pilled),
Cyproheptadine (formally used as an appetite stimulant), Cyclosporin A
(limited to severe cases), and Anti-Interleukin-5 Antibody (still
experimental).
Removing allergens from the environment (use of an air purifier, dust free
and unscented litter, no odor controlling sprays, etc.) could possibly help to
relieve symptoms.
Veterinary diagnosis and treatment is always required.
What Should You Feed Your Cat?
By: Alfred
Hey guys, I guess you could say I'm an expert when it comes to eating!
I do it every day, and I know what Tastes Good and what is Good For Me!
Let's get a little science lesson in here:
You know that cats are carnivores, meaning they are meat eaters. They
don't have the ability to manufacture proteins in their liver as dogs
and humans do, thus they have to get their proteins from food.
Complete proteins come from meat sources. Incomplete proteins come
from grains. Incomplete proteins do not have all the amino acids present
required to form what we call a complete protein.
Also you will want to consider the presence of harsh chemical
preservatives that are in some foods, such as BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin.
All have been proven to play a role in various degenerative diseases
such as kidney and liver disease, and cancer.
Now, what do you believe would be better for your little kitten, a food
that has a cancer causing agent, or a food that has all natural preservatives?
Our suggestion then is to look for a cat food that has at least
2 to 3 meat sources of proteins to every one grain source.
When your kitty goes out for a hunt, does he bring back an ear of corn,
or mice and rodents?
Also look for a food that has all natural preservatives instead
of toxic chemicals.
Our recommended food is
Life's Abundance Premium Health Food For Cats
It is a 100% complete and balanced formula that is safe for your cat
or kitten, and will supply them with the nutrients they need.
Help your precious kitty live the Longest and
Healthiest Life Possible.....
Check out Alfred's
Favorite Feline Dining Experience Here
While you're there, check out the Gourmet Cat
Treats.....GREAT for Hairballs!
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