Just like people, cats can develop asthma. Known as feline asthma or allergic bronchitis, this long-term respiratory condition affects a cat’s airways and can make breathing difficult.

While feline asthma cannot be cured, the good news is that most cats can live happy, active lives with the right treatment and care.

This guide explains what feline asthma is, what causes it, how it is diagnosed and treated, and what to do if your cat has an asthma attack.

What is Feline Asthma?

Feline asthma is a condition where a cat’s airways become inflamed, narrowed and overly sensitive. When exposed to certain triggers, the airways tighten and produce excess mucus, making it harder for air to move in and out of the lungs.

Asthma in cats is often linked to allergies in the environment, such as dust or pollen. Over time, repeated exposure can lead to worsening inflammation and, in some cases, serious or even life-threatening asthma attacks.

Feline asthma usually develops in young to middle-aged cats, most commonly between two and eight years old, and is often seen before the age of five. It appears to be more common in female cats and in certain breeds, including Siamese, Oriental and Himalayan cats, suggesting a genetic influence.

Some cats adopt a hunched posture with their neck extended during coughing episodes. In severe cases, breathing becomes visibly difficult, with the sides of the chest heaving in and out.

Snoring or loud breathing while resting is not always a sign of asthma, but any changes in breathing should be checked by a vet.

When is it an Emergency?

If your cat is struggling to breathe, breathing with their mouth open, or appears distressed, this could indicate an asthma attack.

Asthma attacks are medical emergencies and can be fatal if left untreated, so please contact your vet immediately.

Each cat may have different triggers, which is why identifying and reducing exposure is an important part of managing the condition.

How is Feline Asthma Diagnosed?

There is no single test that definitively diagnoses asthma. Instead, vets diagnose feline asthma by ruling out other conditions that cause similar symptoms, such as heart disease, lungworm or respiratory infections.

Treatment Options for Feline Asthma

Although asthma cannot be cured, it is usually manageable with long-term treatment. Most cats respond well to medication and ongoing care.

Medications Commonly Used Include:

Corticosteroids

These reduce inflammation in the airways and are the cornerstone of asthma treatment. They are usually given daily and help prevent asthma attacks.

Bronchodilators

These medications relax and widen the airways, making breathing easier. They are often used alongside steroids, either regularly or during flare-ups.

How Medication is Given

The preferred method is via a pet inhaler, which delivers medication directly to the lungs and reduces side effects. Tablets, liquids or injections may be used in some cases.

It’s important to only use inhalers and spacers designed for pets, as human inhalers are not effective for cats.

Asthma Attacks in Cats

Asthma attacks happen when the airways suddenly narrow, making breathing extremely difficult.

Signs of a mild attack:

• Repeated coughing
• Wheezing
• Faster breathing
• Hunched posture with neck extended

Severe attacks are life-threatening. If you see these signs, contact your vet immediately.

• Extreme difficulty breathing
• Open mouth breathing or panting
• Visible chest movement
• Drooling or coughing up mucus
• Anxiety or panic

Reducing Asthma Triggers at Home

Managing your cat’s environment plays a major role in preventing flare-ups. You can help by:

• Keeping your home smoke-free
• Avoiding perfumes, sprays, incense and plug-in air fresheners
• Using dust-free, unscented cat litter
• Vacuuming regularly to reduce dust
• Feeding wet food if advised by your vet
• Maintaining a healthy weight, as obesity can worsen asthma
• Using an air purifier if your cat lives mainly indoors

Keeping a diary of asthma attacks can also be very helpful. Note the date, time, severity, possible triggers and any treatment given. Videos of coughing or breathing difficulties can be invaluable for your vet.

When to Contact your Vet

Contact your vet if:

• You notice coughing, wheezing or changes in breathing
• Your cat’s symptoms worsen or become more frequent
• Your cat is struggling to breathe or having an asthma attack

You know your cat best. Even if symptoms don’t exactly match those described, always seek veterinary advice if you are concerned.

Long-term Outlook and Costs

Most cats with asthma do very well with treatment and enjoy a good quality of life. However, it is a lifelong condition and requires ongoing medication and check-ups.

If you’re able to, consider pet insurance while your cat is young and healthy to help with unexpected illness or injury. If your cat becomes unwell, talk openly with your vet about the options, the likely costs, and what feels manageable for you. Together, you can tailor a plan that’s right for your cat and your situation.

Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis, is a long-term condition that affects the joints and can make everyday movements uncomfortable or painful for cats. It is especially common in older cats, but because cats instinctively hide pain, the signs are often subtle and easy to miss.

Although arthritis cannot be cured, there are many effective ways to manage discomfort and support your cat’s mobility and wellbeing. With the right care, most cats with arthritis can continue to enjoy a good quality of life.

If you notice changes in how your cat moves or behaves, it’s important to speak to your vet for advice.

What is arthritis?

Healthy joints are cushioned by smooth cartilage, allowing bones to move freely against one another. In arthritis, this cartilage gradually wears away, causing the joint surfaces to become rough and inflamed. Over time, this leads to stiffness, pain and reduced movement.

Arthritis usually develops slowly and tends to worsen with age. While it is most often seen in senior cats, younger cats may also be affected if they have had joint injuries, infections or developmental problems.

Your vet will start by talking to you about any changes you’ve noticed in your cat’s behaviour, movement or routine. They will then examine your cat, gently checking their joints for stiffness, pain or reduced range of motion.

In some cases, X-rays may be recommended to assess the joints, but they are not always necessary. Arthritis does not always show clearly on imaging, and some cats may be diagnosed based on clinical signs alone. Occasionally, your vet may suggest a trial of pain relief to see if your cat’s comfort and mobility improve.

Managing Arthritis in Cats

While arthritis cannot be reversed, there are many ways to reduce pain, slow progression and help your cat stay comfortable.

Pain Relief and Medication

Veterinary-prescribed pain relief and anti-inflammatory medicines are often the cornerstone of treatment. These medications can significantly improve comfort and movement, but they must only be used under veterinary guidance, as cats are very sensitive to certain drugs.

Never give your cat medication intended for humans as some, such as paracetamol, are extremely dangerous for cats.

Your vet may adjust medications over time to find the safest and most effective option for your cat.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Excess weight places additional strain on sore joints and can worsen inflammation. Keeping your cat at a healthy weight is one of the most important ways to manage arthritis.

Your vet or veterinary nurse can help you choose an appropriate diet and feeding plan if weight loss is needed.

Gentle Activity

Regular, gentle movement helps prevent joints from becoming stiff. Encourage short periods of play or movement each day, while allowing your cat to rest when they need to.

Supplements and Additional Therapies

Some cats may benefit from joint supplements or special diets recommended by a vet. These may help support joint health, though they are not a substitute for pain relief and do not work for every cat.

Complementary therapies such as acupuncture may help some relaxed cats, but suitability varies. Always discuss these options with your vet first.

Outlook

Arthritis is a progressive condition, meaning it tends to worsen over time. However, when it is recognised early and managed appropriately, many cats go on to live comfortably for years.

Regular check-ups allow treatment to be adjusted as your cat’s needs change.

Can Arthritis be Prevented?

Age-related arthritis cannot be completely prevented, but its impact can often be reduced. Keeping your cat at a healthy weight, encouraging safe activity, and minimising the risk of injury can all help protect their joints.

When to Contact Your Vet

Contact your vet if you notice any changes in your cat’s movement, behaviour or comfort. Arthritis is painful, but it is manageable, and early support can make a real difference.

For older cats, routine health checks every 6–12 months are recommended to monitor for arthritis and other age-related conditions.

Cost Considerations

Managing arthritis can involve ongoing costs over your cat’s lifetime. Speak openly with your vet about treatment options, costs and what feels right for you and your cat as there are often different approaches that can be tailored to your circumstances.

If you’re able to, consider pet insurance while your cat is young and healthy to help with unexpected illness or injury. If your cat becomes unwell, talk openly with your vet about the options, the likely costs, and what feels manageable for you. Together, you can tailor a plan that’s right for your cat and your situation.

Regular flea and worming treatments are an important part of keeping cats healthy. These parasites can cause discomfort and illness, and in some cases can be passed on to other pets and even people.

There are many different products available, but spot-on flea and worming treatments are a popular choice as they’re simple to use and very effective. Your vet can advise on the most suitable product for your pet, based on their age, weight and lifestyle.

Applying the Treatment Safely

Spot-on treatments are applied directly to your pet’s skin, usually at the back of the neck where they can’t lick it off.

To apply the treatment:

• Choose a calm moment when your pet is relaxed
• Find the area between your cat’s shoulder blades
• Open the pipette, following the instructions on the packaging
• Part the fur so you can see the skin clearly
• Gently squeeze the treatment onto the skin, moving along the neck if advised
• Praise your pet and offer a treat once you’re finished
• Wash your hands thoroughly afterwards

Important Things to Remember

• Avoid bathing or letting your pet swim for a day or two after application
• Try not to touch the treated area until it has fully dried
• If you do accidentally touch it, wash your hands straight away
• Only ever use dog treatments on dogs and cat treatments on cats
• Always use the correct product size for your pet’s weight

Using the wrong product or dose can be dangerous, so when in doubt, check with your vet.

Possible Side Effects

Most pets tolerate spot-on treatments very well, but side effects can occasionally occur.

These may include:

• Vomiting
• Excessive drooling
• Weakness or unsteady movement
• Breathing difficulties
• Itching, redness at the application site

If you notice any unusual signs after applying the treatment, contact your vet immediately.

How Often Should I Treat My Pet?

The frequency of treatment depends on the product you’re using and your pet’s individual needs, but many spot-on treatments are applied every four weeks. Always read the instructions carefully and speak to your vet if you’re unsure.

Cats and kittens can be vulnerable to several highly contagious diseases. Some cause severe illness and, in certain cases, can sadly be fatal. Vaccinating your cat significantly reduces their risk of catching these diseases.

Vaccinations also protect the wider cat population, by limiting the spread of infection between cats.

If your cat will be staying in a cattery, up-to-date vaccinations are usually a requirement before boarding is permitted.

Which Vaccinations Does My Cat Need?

Vaccines can be divided into core and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are considered essential for all cats (including indoor-only cats). Non-core vaccines are only given to cats if there’s a genuine risk of exposure to the infection and if vaccination provides good protection.

In Ireland, core cat vaccines are considered the following:

• Feline enteritis (feline parvovirus / panleukopenia)
• Cat flu (feline herpesvirus (FHV) and feline calicivirus (FCV))

Non- core vaccines:

• Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV)
• Rabies

Ticks are blood-feeding parasites that can attach to cats when they spend time outdoors. While they are unpleasant and can carry diseases, ticks are rarely dangerous to cats, especially when found and removed promptly.

Ticks do not jump or fly. Instead, they crawl or drop onto a cat’s coat when the cat brushes past grass or vegetation where the tick is waiting.

With regular checks and appropriate parasite prevention, the risks can be kept very low.

Cat flu is a common viral illness that affects a cat’s nose, throat and eyes. Although it can resemble a human cold, it can be much more serious—especially for kittens, elderly cats and those with underlying health problems.

Prompt veterinary advice is always recommended.

What Causes Cat Flu?

Cat flu is usually caused by one or more of the following viruses or bacteria:

Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) – often causes more severe illness and is strongly linked with eye ulcers. Once infected, cats typically remain lifelong carriers.

Feline calicivirus (FCV) – exists in many strains. It may cause mouth ulcers and occasionally lameness in kittens. Cats can shed the virus long after they appear well.

Bordetella bronchiseptica – a bacterium also involved in kennel cough in dogs. It can cause coughing and lung infections in cats.

Chlamydophila felis – usually leads to red, sore, watery eyes and mild flu signs.

These infections spread easily through saliva, mucus, sneezes, shared bowls, bedding, toys and even human clothing. Some viruses can survive in the environment for several days to weeks.

Symptoms of Cat Flu:

Signs can take up to two weeks to appear after infection and include:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Weepy eyes
• Sore eyes (cat flu can cause eye ulcers)
• Low energy (lethargy)
• Mouth ulcers
• Reduced appetite
• Coughing
• High temperature (fever)
• Sore throat or difficulty swallowing (you may see your cat gagging)
• Hoarseness

Contact your vet as soon as you notice symptoms, especially if your cat:

• Is struggling to eat or drink
• Seems unusually quiet, lethargic or has breathing difficulties
• Their eyes look sore, cloudy, or are held closed
• Is under six months of age – Kittens are particularly vulnerable because their immune systems are still developing. They can catch flu from their mother, even if she shows no signs of illness. Infected kittens may become carriers for life or may suffer severe symptoms, so early veterinary attention is vital.

To protect other pets, please wait outside the clinic until you are called in.

How Cat Flu is Diagnosed

Cats are diagnosed by a vet, usually based on their symptoms and history

Treatment for Cat Flu

While there is no single cure for cat flu, supportive care helps most cats recover.

Medications your vet may use

• Anti-inflammatories to reduce fever, pain and inflammation.
• Antibiotics only if a bacterial infection is suspected.
• Mucolytics to help break down thick nasal mucus so your cat can breathe and smell food more easily.
• Eye drops to soothe sore eyes; antibiotic drops if infection is present.
• Antivirals can help in some cases of herpesvirus but are costly and need several weeks of treatment.
• Hospitalisation may be required if your cat is very unwell, dehydrated or stops eating.

Caring for a Cat with Flu at Home

Most cats can be nursed at home with your vet’s guidance.

Keep stress low

Stress can trigger flare-ups or make symptoms worse. Provide a quiet space, keep routines predictable and avoid big changes while they recover.

Clean eyes and nose

Gently wipe away discharge using cotton pads soaked in warm water. This helps your cat breathe and smell their food.

Encourage eating and drinking

Cats often go off their food when they can’t smell it. Offer warm, strong-smelling foods such as:

• sardines
• tuna
• pilchards
• roast chicken

Always check the food is warm—not hot—before offering it. Cats that refuse food may require hospital care.

Help them breathe

A steamy bathroom can help loosen mucus. Allow your cat to join you briefly while you run a shower or bath but never force them to stay if they appear stressed.

Long-Term Effects and Carriers

Some cats never fully clear the virus and remain carriers, meaning they can shed germs intermittently without appearing ill. These cats may:

• Have occasional flare-ups, especially during periods of stress
• Develop chronic nasal discharge due to long-term inflammation
• Be prone to recurring eye or mouth issues

Calicivirus is associated with long-term gum and mouth inflammation (gingivitis), which sometimes requires ongoing treatment or dental work.

Prevention: Vaccination Is Key

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against cat flu.

• Kittens can be vaccinated from 8–9 weeks of age.
• They need two initial doses, followed by regular boosters throughout life.
• Boarding catteries require up-to-date vaccines.
• Even if your cat has had flu before, vaccination can reduce symptoms during future flare-ups.

Vaccination doesn’t guarantee total immunity, but it significantly reduces the severity of illness and helps prevent spread.

Ear mites are a common problem in cats, particularly in kittens. These tiny parasites live in the ear canal and cause intense irritation, often leading to painful ear infections if left untreated. The good news is that ear mites are usually straightforward to treat, especially when caught early.

This page explains what ear mites are, how cats catch them, the signs to watch for, how they are treated, and how to prevent them in the future.

What Are Ear Mites?

Ear mites are microscopic parasites that live on the skin inside a cat’s ear canal. They feed on ear wax and natural skin oils, causing inflammation, itching and excessive wax build-up.

Although ear mites are difficult to see without magnification, they may appear as tiny white dots. An adult ear mite lives for around two months, but they reproduce rapidly. Eggs can hatch in just a few days, and new mites can mature and start breeding within weeks, allowing infestations to develop quickly.

Ear mites can affect cats of any age but are most commonly seen in kittens. They can also infect dogs and other animals.

How Do Cats Get Ear Mites?

The most common way cats catch ear mites is through close contact with another infected animal, especially other cats. However, ear mites can also survive in the environment for months, meaning they may be picked up from places such as:

• The home
• Gardens, garages or sheds
• Bedding, grooming tools or shared spaces

Cats are particularly prone due to their social behaviour and grooming habits.

Signs Of Ear Mites in Cats

Ear mites usually affect both ears and cause significant irritation. Common signs include:

• Frequent head shaking
• Persistent scratching at the ears
• Red, inflamed or swollen ears
• Dark brown or black, dry ear discharge
• A strong or unpleasant smell from the ears
• Rubbing the head or face on furniture or the floor
• Painful ears
• Swelling of the ear flap (aural haematoma) in severe cases

It’s important to note that allergies, bacterial infections and yeast infections can cause similar symptoms. This is why a veterinary examination is essential.

When To Contact Your Vet

Always contact your vet if you notice signs of ear discomfort or suspect ear mites. Ear problems are painful, and delaying treatment can allow infections to worsen or spread deeper into the ear.

Prompt veterinary care helps prevent long-term complications and keeps your cat comfortable.

How Are Ear Mites Diagnosed?

Your vet will examine your cat’s ears to determine the cause of the problem. This may involve:

• Looking into the ear canal using an otoscope
• Checking for visible mites
• Taking a swab of ear debris and examining it under a microscope

This allows your vet to confirm whether ear mites are present or if another condition, such as a bacterial or yeast infection, is responsible.

Treatment For Ear Mites

Medication to kill ear mites

Your vet will prescribe a treatment designed to eliminate the mites. This is often given as a spot-on treatment applied to the back of the neck, or occasionally as a tablet. Some treatments need to be repeated to ensure all mites, including newly hatched ones, are fully eliminated.

Because ear mites are contagious, all cats and dogs in the household should be treated at the same time, even if they are not showing signs.

Ear cleaning

Your vet may also provide an ear cleaner to use at home. Cleaning once daily helps remove excess wax and debris, allowing medication to work more effectively.

Never use cotton buds to clean your cat’s ears, as these can push debris deeper and risk damaging the ear canal. Ask your vet or veterinary nurse to show you the correct technique.

Medicated ear drops

If your cat has inflammation, pain or infection, your vet may prescribe medicated ear drops. These should be used exactly as instructed and for the full course, even if your cat’s ears appear to improve before treatment is finished.

Always apply ear treatments gently to avoid causing stress or discomfort.

Treating your home

Ear mites can survive in the environment for long periods, so it’s important to reduce the risk of reinfestation by:

• Washing pet bedding and grooming equipment on a hot cycle
• Vacuuming regularly
• Using a household flea spray to treat the environment

Never apply household flea sprays directly to animals. Many contain permethrin, which is highly toxic to cats, fish and birds. Always follow safety instructions carefully.

Ongoing Care and Monitoring

After treatment, keep an eye on your cat for any returning signs such as scratching or head shaking. Some cats are prone to waxy ears and may need occasional cleaning.

If you’re unsure how to clean your cat’s ears safely, ask your vet or veterinary nurse for advice.

Outlook For Cats with Ear Mites

When treated promptly and correctly, most cats make a full recovery from ear mites. Early intervention reduces discomfort and prevents complications such as chronic ear disease or infections deeper within the ear.

Home Remedies and Over-The-Counter Products

Many non-prescription products claim to treat ear mites, but these are often less effective and may delay proper treatment. Some can even be harmful.

If your cat has an ear problem, always consult your vet. They can provide licensed, effective medication and check for other underlying issues. Untreated ear conditions can lead to serious and lasting damage.

Preventing Ear Mites

The most effective way to prevent ear mites is regular parasite control. Many flea treatments also protect against ear mites, making them a simple and reliable preventative option.

If you’re able to, consider pet insurance while your cat is young and healthy to help with unexpected illness or injury. If your cat becomes unwell, talk openly with your vet about the options, the likely costs, and what feels manageable for you. Together, you can tailor a plan that’s right for your cat and your situation.

Tooth brushing is the most effective way to keep a cat’s teeth clean. If your cat’s teeth look clean, their gums are pale pink, and there’s no strong smell from their mouth, you can begin brushing.

Tips for success:

• • Aim for daily brushing, even if only for a short time
  • Keep sessions calm and brief
  • Only continue while your cat is relaxed

Some cats won’t tolerate brushing, particularly if they weren’t introduced to it at a young age. If this is the case, speak to your vet about alternatives such as dental gels, powders or water additives.

Never use human toothpaste, as it contains ingredients that are unsafe for cats.

How To Introduce Tooth Brushing

You’ll need:

• • • A cat-specific toothbrush (or finger brush)
    • Cat-safe toothpaste

Introduce brushing gradually over several days or weeks:

Let your cat taste the toothpaste
Offer a small amount on your finger so they become familiar with it.

Find a comfortable position
Gently position your cat so they feel secure and can’t back away easily.

Get them used to lip handling
Carefully lift their lips for a moment, rewarding calm behaviour.

Start cleaning with a soft applicator
Use a cotton bud with toothpaste to gently rub the teeth, focusing on the gum line.

Move on to a toothbrush
Once your cat is comfortable, use small circular motions on the outer surfaces of the teeth.

Reward and praise

Always finish on a positive note with treats or affection.

If your cat shows signs of pain or distress, stop and contact your vet.

Good dental care is just as important for cats as it is for people. Keeping your cat’s mouth healthy can prevent pain, infection and more serious health problems later in life. With regular checks and a simple routine at home, you can greatly reduce the risk of dental disease.

Why Dental Care Matters for Cats

Without regular care, a cat’s teeth naturally collect a sticky layer of bacteria (plaque). Over time, minerals in saliva cause plaque to harden into tartar, which firmly attaches to the teeth and irritates the gums.

If left untreated, this build-up can lead to painful dental conditions, including:

• Gingivitis (inflamed gums)
• Inflammation of the mouth
• Tooth root infections or abscesses
• Tooth resorption, where the tooth structure breaks down
• Receding gums, which can loosen teeth

Cats are very good at hiding discomfort, so they may continue eating even when their mouth is sore. However, dental pain can still affect their appetite, behaviour and overall wellbeing.

Preventing wider health problems

Severe dental disease doesn’t just affect the mouth. Bacteria from infected teeth and gums can enter the bloodstream and may contribute to problems elsewhere in the body, including the heart and kidneys. Maintaining good oral health helps protect your cat’s general health too.

Reducing the need for dental treatment

Advanced dental disease often requires veterinary treatment, which may include pain relief, antibiotics and dental procedures under general anaesthetic. In some cases, damaged or painful teeth need to be removed. Preventative care at home can significantly reduce the likelihood of these procedures being needed.

What Dental Care Involves

The goal is to limit plaque build-up and spot problems early. This includes:

• Regularly checking your cat’s mouth
• Brushing their teeth, where possible
• Using supportive dental products if brushing isn’t tolerated

Checking Your Cat’s Teeth at Home

Your vet should examine your cat’s teeth every 6–12 months. In between visits, try to check their mouth monthly.

When your cat is relaxed:

• Gently lift the lips to look at the teeth and gums
• Gums should be pink, not red or swollen
• Teeth should be smooth and intact
• Watch for bad breath, loose teeth or visible tartar

If you’re unsure or your cat won’t allow handling, ask your vet to check their mouth more frequently.

Signs Of Dental Disease to Watch For

Contact your vet if you notice:

• Persistent bad breath
• Drooling or pawing at the mouth
• Difficulty eating or chewing
• Reduced appetite or weight loss
• Red, bleeding or sore gums
• Loose or broken teeth
• Swelling around the face or jaw
• Changes in grooming behaviour

Other Ways to Support Dental Health

Dental chews: Choose products designed for cats and avoid very hard items that could damage teeth.

Special diets: Some veterinary diets are designed to reduce plaque build-up through texture or added ingredients.

Dental supplements: Gels and water additives can help slow plaque formation, though they are less effective than brushing.

Always speak to your vet before introducing new dental products.

Treating Dental Disease

Treatment depends on the severity of the problem and may include:

• Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication
• Antibiotics for infection
• Professional dental cleaning under general anaesthetic
• Tooth removal if teeth are damaged or painful

If you’re able to, consider pet insurance while your cat is young and healthy to help with unexpected illness or injury. If your cat becomes unwell, talk openly with your vet about the options, the likely costs, and what feels manageable for you. Together, you can tailor a plan that’s right for your cat and your situation.

Check your policy carefully, as dental cover varies.