Cat Cough

by Anne
(MN)

Cat Cough Reader Question:

My cat has developed a terrible cough attack a few times a day...I am worried that it is heartworm because of the dry, asthma type cough while he rests....I am taking him to the vet today..Any suggestions?

Editor Response to Cat Cough Problem

Dear Anne,

Cat heartworm disease is a fatal condition that moves through different stages. The parasite that causes the condition, i.e. Dirofilaria immitis, is transmitted through a mediated host i.e. meaning through a mosquito bite.

Unfortunately, during pathogenesis and/or the life cycle of this parasite, an affected cat remains asymptomatic (doesn't show any symptoms). Clinical symptoms are exhibited once an infection becomes mature and incurable. A progressive cough along with vomiting, lethargy and intolerance are some primary signs of a cat heartworm problem.

An asthma like dry and progressive cough like you describe, along with vomiting are primary signs of heartworm disease. If your cat is breathing rapidly, and shows no interest in activities and experiences severe respiratory stress along with vomiting and cough, you can surely suspect that a Dirofilarial infection is the cause. The only way to be sure is to visit a veterinarian who will conduct the needed laboratory tests and preferably chest x-rays.

Unfortunately, there is no approved and effective treatment for heartworm disease in cats. Heartworms, if you try and eliminate or kill them, will end up blocking the pulmonary arteris, which will result in immediate death.

On the other hand, surgical elimination can be an effective way to remove feline heartworms, but this is only done if the heartworms are placing a heavy burden on your cat during the advanced stages of this condition.

Steroids are usually administered to reduce inflammation caused by the worms. You can provide some support for your cat using supplements and organic preparations that are commercially offered to reduce the effects of symptoms.

You can also try natural remedies to reduce the severity of any symptoms. Two good choices are Parasite Dr. Capsules and Heart & Circulation Tonic.

Remember, there is no specific treatment for cats with heartworm disease, all approaches remain restricted to support only.

If your cat is confirmed as having heartworm disease, other cats in the area should be screened for heartworm infection as well and should receive preventive doses of ivermectin or milbemycin. Discuss preventive measures with your veterinarian, as it is essential.

Though transmission of this disease to humans is rare, it can potentially be transferred to humans from mosquitoes. Use a quality mosquito repellent such as Skeeter Defeater Mosquito Repellent to keep mosquitoes away from you and your cat if you can.

Best of luck and please let us know what happens after your veterinarian visit.