Feline Asthma Study Guide
Overview and Clinical Importance
Feline asthma (also known as feline allergic bronchitis or feline lower airway disease) is one of the most commonly diagnosed respiratory conditions in cats, affecting approximately 1-5% of the pet cat population. It is characterized by chronic inflammation of the lower airways with reversible bronchoconstriction and airway hyperresponsiveness. Feline asthma is remarkably similar to human asthma, making the cat a valuable natural model for the human disease.
The condition results from a Type I hypersensitivity reaction to inhaled aeroallergens, leading to release of inflammatory cytokines and subsequent pathologic airway changes. Clinical signs range from intermittent wheezing and coughing to life-threatening respiratory distress (status asthmaticus). This topic is high-yield for the NAVLE given the prevalence of the condition and the importance of distinguishing it from other causes of feline respiratory disease.
Etiology and Pathophysiology
Underlying Mechanism
Feline asthma is driven by an IgE-mediated Type I hypersensitivity reaction to inhaled aeroallergens. Upon exposure to sensitizing allergens, the following cascade occurs:
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